When an artist needed a visual reference, they relied on their “swipe files” … file folders cataloged and filled with images that were ripped directly or surreptitiously from any magazine we could get their hands on. Creating a swipe file is the learning method most pro artists use to improve their work. They study other people’s content and create a collection with proven examples. If you want to draw people with massive,bulging muscles, swipe from Jack Kirby or Frank Frazetta. If you goal is creating oddball art, Steve Ditko’s work qualifies. If your goal is learning how to illustrate beautiful women, look no further than the art of Vince Colletta.