“The mysterious flow of creativity can be primed like a pump by physically (and emotionally) planting yourself in the physical space where you want that energy to flow.”
Twyla Tharp, Dancer, Choreographer and Author

Ask Your Painting

This happened to me the other day.

I was working on a painting and suddenly realized that I did not know how I got to where I was with this painting. I stood back to catch my breath and it did not look at all like I thought it was looking. Nor was it going in the direction that I thought it was going to go.

I am a firm believer that our paintings collaborate with us and help create themselves.

This incident was a reminder to me to allow my paintings to do just that.

If we look and listen real hard to our paintings, they will tell us what to do. Or, at least, suggest possibilities.

The way to invite this kind of collaboration is two-fold.

One, focus on process, not product. Be involved in the making of the painting every step of the way. Avoid switching over to auto pilot, just to get the painting completed. Spend a lot of time looking and watching what is happening on the surface of your canvas as you paint.

Two, ask your painting these three questions:

1. What do you want to be?

2. What do you need?

3. What do you want from me?

I know this sounds kinda crazy, however, your painting will talk back to you and answer these questions for you. If you are focused, painting with purpose, totally involved in the process, and listening.

Try it and let me know how it goes.

Best,

David

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