As an artist, I often get fascinated with something and stay stuck on the subject. Some may call it “working in series”, but my reality is that I can’t easily shake something that fascinates me. I can use the same photo reference for 20 different paintings done in different ways…Some may think I’m painting with one eye on the market, but that is not true. It’s about my need to explore and understand this animal and why I’m so attracted to its form. Daily painting of any subject matter means growth…after awhile the memory of painting something adds to the mental library of pictures and the pieces flow, one painting at a time. Sometimes they are little 5″x 7″ studies. Not all of them work. I learn more from mistakes than successes. Maybe you aren’t painting daily and are “blocked” for some reason- perhaps, “Because the holidays are coming up”, or “I just don’t have time with my job and family”. It only takes minutes a day to improve. If you don’t have time for 20 minutes, try 10. I have always said those who practice simply get better sooner than those who don’t practice. It isn’t rocket science. Get out the pencils or paints, and do your 10-20 minutes of practice on a subject that appeals to you. Daily practice will pay off for you as you grow into the artist you were meant to be. It will happen sooner or later. Why not sooner?
