Experimenting with collage and trying to figure out this abstracting the figure thing.
Mixed media on wood, 11”x 8”, ©2017 David Limrite

“It doesn’t matter how the paint is put on, as long as something is said.”
Jackson Pollock

What Are Your Goals For Today?

I am a much more efficient and productive artist when I set a few goals for each painting session. And my paintings are much better when I set specific goals for each painting I am currently working on. Setting goals keeps me focused and on track.

Goals for one of my painting sessions might include: creating an abstract ground for a new painting, researching poses for an idea I have, preparing a new panel, and revisiting a painting in progress.

Goals for a specific painting in progress on my easel could include: changing the background color, adding some darker values on the figure, redrawing the left arm, and softening some of the edges on the torso.

I may stick to these goals and I may not, but at least I have a roadmap for my next painting session and I have some specific things that I want to do to a work in progress.

Having said all of this, I always try to remain flexible. I am willing to shift gears, reassess, react to a change in motivation or inspiration, and take a left turn instead of a right.

Goals should keep you focused and give you a place to begin. Goals should not prevent spontaneity.

Hint: I make my goals the night before a painting session so that I know exactly where to begin the next day. Which is very empowering.

Best,

David