artwork planning painting acrylics

Artists Block!

21/11/2023 artsandcraftsv

It’s come to this, I can’t believe I can’t formulate an image in my head, I can’t think of anything, it’s gone dead!

These and many other phrases are said by most artists at some time or other, believe me! It can happen at any time, time away from the fluidity of painting for whatever reason or life events. It happens to most of us!

Best advice is not to fret, easy hey? Not always, so, sketch pad to hand… doodle! Shapes, lines, swirls, anything. Relax, get comfortable. Before you know it you’ll be finding some reoccurring theme to your doodles. Keep with it, now move into thumb nail sketches, as many and as crazy as you like but above all remain relaxed – this is your time. Get the colours out and continue doodling or playing with colours. Allow yourself to play. This is one of my best top tips: allow yourself to play. Out of this time will flow ideas or feelings that you may not have been fully aware of. Take this further and you’re on the road to your next piece.

Happy discovery x

artwork planning painting acrylics, painting

So much to do!

04/09/2023 artsandcraftsv

The new academic year is gearing up, and the race to get everything done in time feels more pressurised this week!

I’ve been happily making examples of painting with oils for my new students coming into college this term. At the same time finishing off my own acrylic paintings, posting on social media and taking a few online courses for my continued professional practice. I’m feeling pulled in so many directions!

Working to a plan helps, keeping a calendar of events helps, but I need to plan more time “out”. It’s really important as an artist to allow yourself time away! And, during the time away… not to be looking for the next idea of a painting! Is that even possible 😃

artwork planning painting acrylics

Inspiration

15/07/2023 artsandcraftsv

Is it the sunlight, the colours or textures that ignite your fire to pick up another canvas to paint?

Last weekend we had a girls day out, it wasn’t the summer sunny day that we were expecting but the moody sky really added drama to the landscape! I took less photos than usual but the striking colours and contrasts really energised me to action! I’ve been painting several landscapes based on that trip ever since and they will be in the Leamington gallery soon.

The subject matter is a detour for me, and I’m grateful to it. I have grown in confidence in an area I really didn’t relish before. So much so, I’ve booked on to a Plein Air event in Charlcote Hall, Warwickshire in September. I hope it’s a dry day! I hope you can visit us!