I Don’t . . . But I Did
As an artist I often find myself saying, “I don’t really (insert whatever particular artistic activity here.)”
For example, I don’t paint with watercolors. I really admire watercolor artists and the wonderful work they produce, but I feel totally out of control when I attempt to use them. They frustrate me. I’ve had a grand selection of professional grade watercolor paints in my studio for years that I never used to create any work . . . But then I did.
Now I routinely use a watercolor under painting as a starting point for the pastel work I am so passionate about.
For years I was primarily known as an animal artist. Feeling much more comfortable with critters of any sort, I often said, “I don’t really paint people.” . . . But then I did.
Once I decided to approach a human portrait or figure just as I would any of the animals I so enjoyed painting I discovered I COULD paint people, too! I just needed a different mindset, a creative approach, a new level of comfort to start from.
I am so impressed with still life paintings. So much thought and planning goes into each piece, from placement to lighting and beyond, before any of us get to see the artist’s true vision take shape on paper or canvas. I have always been fascinated with them to be sure. But I don’t paint still life paintings . . . Then I did.
When I had the idea of combining birds or animals (alive or of the “toy type”) into an unusual still life setting a new series of pastel paintings was born! Then came another and another after that. The challenge of the painting itself is only part of the fun. I am now forever on the lookout for unusual pieces to pair together in a grouping that will be interesting to both myself and hopefully others who view my art.
Anyone who knows me or my work knows I don’t paint florals and I CERTAINLY don’t do landscapes . . . But then I did!
Sometimes a bird just requires a flower behind it. I have painted them a couple of times now and I guess they didn’t turn out too bad. In fact, don’t be surprised if you see blooms again in the future. I am pretty sure the flower still won’t be the “star” of the piece, but more supporting roles are a definite possibility.
As far as landscapes go . . . I don’t . . . But I did!!
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