Painting - "Rooted"

6 Types of Artistic Self-Knowledge

Here are just some of the things that you get to know about yourself as an artist as you progress with your work. 1. Your favourite materials. Which type of paint do you want to use? What about mixed media or collage? Do you love a smooth surface or do you respond to a textured surface with your paint? What give your results you like – thick paint, thin paint, large brushes, or unusual painting implements such as palette knives? 2. Your inspirations. Are you inspired by viewing original art – in galleries, books or on line? Are you inspired by techniques – a flow of colour, a calculated brush stroke? Are you inspired by being part of an art group – or does your best inspiration come from quiet alone time. Naturally, I have to mention that many people are inspired to paint by being in an art class since it gives weekly goals and friends to cheer you on. 3. Your favourite subjects – or not. When I was first into painting, I thought I wanted to be a wildlife painter. It didn’t take me too long to figure out that I would not be limited to that subject alone. Animals still show up in my paintings, but at this point I really have not chosen only one subject to be my painting theme. For me, the switching around of subjects is part of my creative process. However, if you do find you have a favourite subject, it will help simplify your art journey. 4. Your best place to paint. Some artists do their best work when painting on location. Others find that the moving breeze and sunshine distract them when they are trying to paint. Do you work best going to the same place, a small studio or simply the same table, to go to? 5. Your working stamina. How long can you paint without getting fatigued and overworking? What type of a break will recharge you – a short brisk walk, a flop on the couch, a cup of coffee? 6. Do you work best with music on, or in silence? If with music, which type? These are just some of the elements of yourself that you will get to know as an artist. It’s about figuring out what brings out your creative best. What do you think? Which aspects of knowing yourself have most benefited your art? 

Artpromotivate Feature

Ever so happy to have one of my paintings featured in a video by Artpromotivate – thank you, Graham! I’m sure that you will agree that it’s an honour to be a part of this fine group of artists. Enjoy! And feel free to ‘like’ or ‘share’ or ‘subscribe’ to Graham Matthews YouTube channel. 
Door450

Habitat for Humanity

When I got a phone call about painting a door for Habitat for Humanity, it just sounded like too fun a project to resist. And, it’s a really good cause too. Quite a few local artists are each painting one, and they will be auctioned off as a fund raiser in a couple of months. I’ll make sure to post all the details about when and where that will be when I have them. Meanwhile, I’ve been told that they will be on display at For the Love of Art on Saturday June 8th, so you can check them out there. Dundas street will be blocked to traffic from Wellington to Talbot for this art event. I’ll also be there with some of my paintings. Here’s my door – it sure was a fun challenge! 
UnlPr590MichelA

Not Easy Sometimes

Anyone who puts serious effort into painting has run into this – comments about how nice it must be to spend so much time painting. Yes, that is true. I am the first to admit that I’m incredibly blessed in my profession and truly love what I do. That said – it’s still not easy sometimes. Sometimes the vision in your head or heart doesn’t form on the canvas. Sometimes the atmosphere you want eludes you, and the shapes seem to fight with each other rather than working in harmony. The frustration and disappointment are tangible. Even when it is working out as you hoped, there are still many hours at the easel that represent discipline and perseverance – just plain work – to bring the whole thing to completion. Painting is a skill that needs to be learned, and continued to be practiced for an artist to be able to express themselves well. I get what Michelangelo was saying. What do you think? Is being creative sometimes work for you?