I can tell you from a marketer's point of view, developing one's own style is essential to gaining the eye of collectors. Collectors posses a sentiment of, "if it looks just like reality, I'll just take a photograph." One's personal artistic style for many buyers IS the "art" in the artwork. Without the style, it's just "work." While I never advocate painting "for the market", it is worthwhile to keep this in mind.
Sincerely,
Clint
Software Craftsman and Art Fanatic

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