JUST DO THE NEXT STEP
Not much to say about this one. But I do have one question. “Where did the circles come from?” “Untitled”, 16”x 12”, pencil, acrylic and collage on wood. © 2020 David Limrite
“Success is not final. Failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts..”
Winston Churchill
Just Do The Next Step
I know that “finishing” a painting can be terrifying (as well as satisfying). You’re afraid you will ruin it.
So… you start a new painting because that is more exciting and less stressful than finishing your current painting.
What if there is no such thing as “ruining” a painting?
What if there are only attempts, missteps and learning? And then trying it again.
The word “finished” is tricky. It just sounds so final. It means the end. It means that there is nothing more that can be done. Unfortunately for many artists, it also means that it has to be perfect. And that is where the fear comes in.
How about instead of saying that you have to ”finish” a painting, you think about it as, this painting is ready for the next step. The next thing to be done. And, if the next step finishes the painting, then great!
But it may not.
So, then you take the next step. And the next one. Until the painting feels right and complete.
For me, this is a much gentler way to bring a painting to a close.
Best,
David
P.S. I am beyond thrilled to announce the inaugural Online Reception and Exhibit for the 18 artists of the Create Anyway Collective. These artists have been creating, exploring, diving deep, meeting deadlines, busting through obstacles and generating new beliefs about themselves and their creativity. Join me in discovering and celebrating their work during our Online Reception. See below.
