artwork planning painting acrylics, painting, Planning, time to think, Public art

Thinking Time

After an absorbing morning with @ruthmillington talking about her published works to date, we had time to chat and I put forward the idea of thinking time. We all agreed, visual artists and authoresses alike, that allowing oneself time to think was invaluable.

So often we feel obliged to rush, meet deadlines, fall in line with work ethics. If a wider understanding of time to think, it’s acceptance, and understanding of the benefits could become a norm I do believe that we would produce better, more thoughtful work!

This was particularly true for me when working on my large paintings for my solo exhibition last year. It was 9-5, and really 5.30 stop. But then frequently started again later in the evening after further contemplation! Most lunch times were really just making a sandwich, scrutinising the morning’s work, what should be done next and what areas of the canvas needed more yellow or more detail! It wasn’t always possible to wait till I finished eating lunch I was driven to get going again! Thinking time was invaluable. Do you agree?

Image copyright V.Chapple ArtsAndCraftsV
painting

It’s Mounted!

What an exciting day yesterday at the Courtyard Gallery when all my artwork was mounted! I’ve really enjoyed putting the collection together for Beautiful Open Spaces. It’s been a long awaited day after a great deal of painting! Come and visit, it’s open now until 8 June!

artwork planning painting acrylics, painting

So much to do!

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 😃