How to better improve my art style/motivation?

Question

I've been drawing since I was about 9, and never really took any art classes because I prefer to draw things my own way, and draw what I want instead of having to draw what the teacher wants. I'm proud of my improvement since then, but I'd really like to get better at poses, anatomy, and just my style in general. What kind of things to you guys do to work on these kind of things? I've tried several methods, like sketching multiple poses on one page and choosing the better out of them to turn into an actual drawing. This somewhat helps but it's not giving me the satisfaction that i'm looking for when it comes to creativity or improvement. I don't draw as much as I used to precisely for this reason; I'm never happy with how drawings come out, and usually I get frustrated in the sketching phase, and never actually finish the drawing. To counter this I've been forcing myself to finish drawings anyways, and that's brought me out of my art block quite a bit. However, I feel like I would be happier with it if I could find new ways of experimenting with my art.
And on another note, if any of you have actually read this far, what digital drawing programs (paid or free, either is fine) would you suggest for someone using a Surface Pro 5? I currently have Medibang Paint Pro on mine, and I tried Sai but it's a bit laggy on my Surface, and I haven't tried Photoshop yet but I intend to. Are there any other programs that might be similar in tools and such to any of those?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

(I unfortunately use a Mac and Ipad for my art, so I can't say anything about programs, but from my experience, Clip Studio Paint is an AMAZING program. much better than Photoshop.) Are you trying realism? Realism takes time, and you need to ease into it. I've actually improved so much by drawing in an anime-ish style, as it does utilize realistic proportions(Besides the face. Yes, I know). Now, about CARTOONS(Western, 30's whatever!), be creative! There's no standard for what cartoons should look like! I grew up with Dora and all that jazz, and even today, shows on networks CN are very creative! If you look at them, there are large differences between each show. It's how you handle the poses. Take elements from styles and try to mash them together! From viewing a lot of art, my style changes often(though nowadays i've found a style i think i can be more grounded in), and that's alright! Look at stuff from anime, or look at artwork on tumblr and twitter! You need to see to improve. 
Good Luck! I hope I helped somewhat.

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How to better improve my art style/motivation?

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