FINISHING IS NOT ABOUT PERFECTION
This was not what I was going for. This piece started out as a figure painting and I messed it up. I did not feel like battling with this figure anymore, so, I took a deep breath, dove head first into it with reckless abandon, and this is the result. I wish I could attack my work with this mindset more often. “Untitled Little Dress Painting 1”, 10”x 8”, acrylic on wood. © 2020 David Limrite
“You rarely have time for everything you want in this life, so you have to make choices. And hopefully your choices can come from a deep sense of who you are.”
Fred Rogers, Mr Rogers
Finishing Is Not About Perfection
Finishing is about deciding.
Finishing is about working hard, making choices, giving it your all, and then deciding that your painting is finished. It is about telling yourself that you have done the best you can with the current skills and talents you have right now. And that there is nothing more that you can give to this painting.
Finishing is about the next thing.
It’s about wanting to finish this current painting so that you can create your next vision. It’s about your next idea. The next challenge.
Finishing is about gaining momentum.
It’s about building confidence. It’s about learning, and applying what you have learned to the next painting. It’s about attempting to make the next painting better than the last one.
Finishing is risky.
But not finishing is not a good alternative. Not finishing is safe. If a painting is considered unfinished then it cannot be put out in the world where it will most likely be scrutinized, and worse yet, criticized.
Finished work wants to be shared with the world.
Not finishing is procrastination. An unfinished painting means that you do not have to start the next one.
Not finishing is about fear. Fear that it may not be as amazing as you think it is. Fear that you have not made good decisions. Fear that your work is not going in the right direction.
Not finishing is about the painting having to be perfect before you proclaim that it is finished. There is no such thing as perfect.
Finishing is not about perfect.
Consider finishing your current painting so you can start the next one.
Best,
David
Quotes from the Create Anyway Collective (12-week program, currently in progress):
"Since joining your program, I’ve faced up to my fears around 2 paintings where I was stuck, and have begun to sort out ways to complete them, address concerns I already had, and just get on with it."
~ Quinne Fokes, during Week 2"I watched the video a couple more times. SOOOO helpful...especially David's comments about Finding a Way In... You both have the ability to help without intimidation. Anyone that doesn't raise their hand, is missing a wonderful opportunity. I learn from everyone that is brave enough to share."
~ Participating CAC Artist, Empowerment Session"Thanks for a great coaching session today. It is tough for me, but this is what I need to try to get some clarity on what holds me back."
~ Participating CAC Artist, Coaching SessionTo learn more about the Create Anyway Collective or to get on the Wait List for the next CAC program, click here.