Wet And Wild

One of the most important things an artist can do to develop a unique style is to let go of fear.  When we're afraid of making a mistake, or afraid that others will not approve of what we do, we become cautious.  Our work can become stiff and uninspired.  Worse than that, we may stop creating altogether.

Over the weekend, I had the urge to break out of my usual method of painting.  I've been feeling confined and unwilling to take chances.  I've been playing it safe.  The problem with being safe is this:  you will never find out what you are truly capable of. Unless you are willing to loosen your grasp on the familiar, you will do the same thing over and over, and wonder why you're not happy with the result. (Did I hear the definition of insanity in there?)

I don't know about you, but I have a real fondness for "getting it right" when it comes to my art.   I want to control my materials like a military officer conducting field drills.  If you've ever worked with watercolor, you're probably smiling.  Controlling watercolor is a bit like controlling a cat-the cat's going to do what it wants and then laugh behind your back for thinking you can train it. 

It is far more productive to become familiar with your materials, observe their behavior, and then use what you know to your advantage.  I've been making a real effort to study the properties of my paints, i.e. flow, transparency, intensity, etc.  Understanding how they will behave leaves me free to experiment, rather than control.  The result is a freer, less contrived piece of art.

 

White Blossoms

Watercolor on 140 lb. cold press

 

I hope you are inspired to set your creative spirit free.  God bless you, and have a wonderful day!

 

Until next time,

 

Comments

[Lenna Andrews]

This is absolutely gorgeous and very free, Terri. I love it!

[Erika]

What a beautiful picture.

[Marie @ Sally Lee by the Sea]

I can totally relate to having everything "perfect" which just doesn't work when you're an artist. This piece of art is divine and I love the colors you integrated into this watercolor - gorgeous!

Have a great week, Terri.

Hugs,
Marie