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Weekly Blog on creativity and what it takes to be an artist by David Limrite (artist, teacher, mentor & coach)

WHEN NOT TO PAINT

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The Soul Searcher Drawings. “Untitled”, 16”x 12”, graphite, charcoal, acrylic and collage on paper. © 2021 David Limrite


Courage is not the absence of despair. Rather it is the capacity to move ahead in spite of despair.”
Rollo May, Psychologist


When Not To Paint

I have identified two circumstances for myself when I should absolutely not pick up a paintbrush in order to work on a particular painting in progress.

I know this sounds odd because I am always encouraging artists to paint as much as possible and as often as they can.

But, I have two exceptions:

First, I don’t paint on a particular painting in progress if I am afraid to work on it, if I am feeling timid or precious with it, or if I am fearful of ruining it. If I am feeling any of these feelings or having any of these thoughts, then it is probably best that I not work on this painting at this time.

If I go ahead and work on it while feeling this way, I do not make good decisions, I don’t take risks, and I don’t paint with authority.

Second, I don’t work on a particular painting in progress if I don’t know what the next step is. Especially if the next step is to finish it. If I am unsure about what to do next, or if I don’t have any clue what the painting needs, then it is probably not a good idea to work on it.

If I just start diving in without specific next steps, then I usually overwork the painting. Every time.

I am not suggesting that you don’t paint at all. If you have another painting in progress, that you feel more confident about working on, and/or know what the next steps are, then work on that painting.

Or, start a new painting.

Always keep painting in order to maintain momentum.

You will eventually find your way back into the other paintings. I always do.
Best,

David


Recently heard in the Create Anyway Collective regarding her private critique session with me (Deluxe Version):

Thank you so much!! I just re-listened to this and find it to be such a good, informative and encouraging session. 

Thank you again for your time, and for offering this class. It is a game changer for me.

Mary Jo Coblentz, Washington

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