Is it considered cheating when tracing over something? I'm a self-taught artist and have trouble drawing anatomy, so to help with that I'll take a stock image (e. a hand) and trace over it, all the while incorporating my style. My friends says that it's ok as it's a learning process and I try to draw it as close to my style as possible but I can't help but feel that I'm cheating. Any advice?

Hi anon! I believe we’ve answered this type of question before, but I’ll throw in my two cents. 

It depends how you’re using the reference image to trace. If you’re just following the contours, you’re not going to learn how to construct the form, and you’re not going to learn why you’re drawing what you’re seeing. 

On the other hand, if you build on top of the reference image, finding the large forms and the 3D structure of the figure, then you learn more, and your drawing will also feel more cohesive. 

Don’t worry about your style just yet, just think about: what is the best way to convey what you’re seeing. Make stylistic choices, don’t box yourself into one style. 

(Reference image by Hong14Cafe)

Here’s some additional posts we’ve made about tracing: 

https://theredlinestation.tumblr.com/post/178222691154/for-references-would-it-be-considered-plagirising

https://theredlinestation.tumblr.com/post/179728663475/ive-been-wanting-to-practice-anatomy-and-realism

https://theredlinestation.tumblr.com/post/176981316173/i-dont-know-if-this-is-listen-in-rules-or-if

-Mod Future (ko-fi)

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