On My Easel: Part Two

The Realities of Starting a New Painting

For me, one of the best feelings is when I start a new painting and things just go smoothly. 

Of course, that’s not always the case. Sometimes, painting is a struggle. There are pieces I leave unfinished for months—or even years—until I feel ready to return to them. Sometimes, there are problems right out of the gate.

That’s why, whenever someone suggests that making art is easy, I’m rolling my eyes (at least in my head). Being an artist is like any other job: some things are easy and enjoyable, and other parts are tough and, honestly, almost infuriating.

Yesterday, I started a new painting and there was resistance at every stage—probably because it was a Monday and my brain wanted everything to move faster than it actually was. Story of my life.

There’s something to be said for not giving up when faced with resistance and sticking with the process, even when it’s tough. Lol… such is life.

The Process

First, I had to compile two photos together in Photoshop to get the right composition and size. Next, transferring the image to the canvas—which isn’t always fun and is definitely time-consuming. Then finally, getting that first painted layer down. It’s a big canvas, so with the first layer, I try to map out the main shapes and colours.

All of that took about seven hours just to begin the painting. Now I have to wait until it dries before I can add the next layer of oil paint.

The details come in the later layers, and the whole picture only really comes together over time.

A New Direction for My Blog

I’m trying something new with my blog. I want most of my “content” (yes, I hate that word too, but it fits) to live in my own space. Social media has gotten so exhausting, and I’m not a fan of the people running it. I’ll still post there, but for a more in-depth look into my art and life, I’ll be sharing here—not there.

One quick disclaimer: I’m not a great writer (yet!), but I’m using this platform to get better at it. So please, don’t be judgy—be the person who brings joy when you walk into the room, not when you walk out of it.

Thanks for reading and for being here. If you relate, or if you’ve got your own stories about starting (or struggling with) something creative, I’d love to hear them.