Scared to Commit? This Artist Painting Tip is for You!
Committing to Art Education is a Big Decision
Artists, do you get mired in “analysis paralysis?” I’ve been there! For example, I was wringing my hands recently as I considered joining an intense 12-week online art workshop. My art business keeps me busy on a daily basis and I love sharing my knowledge with other artists, but I came to a realization that I needed to strengthen my commitment to myself and my art—and this 12-week commitment was the perfect vehicle for that!
The workshop is helping to inspire, clarify, and improve my paintings and my life. It’s helping me rediscover the joy of art-making, galvanizing my practice, and making my art more like me! Life is all about creating and solving challenges and allowing yourself joy. By committing to this workshop I am doing just that! I’m so glad I made the decision to sign up.
Avoiding Paralysis While Creating Art
Do you find yourself frozen, afraid to "mess up" your precious painting? Do you dread adding an element or a layer and then finding that you need to cover it over? If so, this painting tip is for you.
You can audition a change by painting it onto a Mylar sheet, (a clear poly sheet protector you can purchase at the office supply store) and then holding it over the painting. Use clear Mylar so you can easily see your painting through it. This allows you to try it out in different locations and decide whether you want to make the change at all. If you don't like it, no harm done! You tried it without actually making the change.
As you gain confidence, you'll find that you rely on this technique less and less. My goal for you is to paint freely and without anxiety—but I believe it's totally fine to use crutches, especially early in our painting journey.
Make Your Artistic Choice—and Then Make Them the Right Choice
Try not to think of every move you make as either right or wrong, a success or a failure. Have the confidence in yourself as an artist that you will find a way to make your decision and then move forward with them. For example, if you add some marks but feel that they are too bold, then use one of the many ideas you may have to push them back a bit (collage on top of them; glaze over them; cover with some gesso or a texture, etc.). You may find that the result is even better than the original marks you intended!
Remember: No painting is so precious that we can't make changes to it. Go for it and be open to surprises and lessons!
What do you think? Will you give this technique a try? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!
A Creative’s Exploration Guide
This free, step-by-step guide will help you progress in your creative journey.
Grow as an artist by building a solid foundation in your painting practice. Develop your confidence. Then, if you choose, charter a thriving creative business to call your very own.