Artist Quote by Dave McKean
“I do very, very, very simple, skimpy doodles, nothing too committed. Because people tend to fall in love if they like it - if you color it in and they like it, then they want exactly those colors, even if they were just indications. You really have to do it as simple as possible so they can concentrate on the idea and composition. And then all of the energy goes into making the final piece. And the final piece can be anything - it can be a drawing, a painting, a collage - and usually, it's obvious what that should be. Usually, the idea dictates what medium you use.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Art & Design Talk, 2015
Keep initial sketches minimal so viewers focus on concept, not details, allowing the final work to emerge naturally.
In simple terms: Simple sketches highlight ideas, letting the final piece evolve.
Start with bare basics, let the concept guide the medium.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- graphic design
- illustration
- storyboarding
- product development
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does simplicity affect audience interpretation?
- When should you add detail?
Complex details can distract and limit creative freedom.