Hello! I am happy to say that I am still going strong in my #the100DayProject! In fact, the more I paint, the more I am in love with painting. Even when I sleep, I am dreaming about painting #forreal.
Last week I came across an interview with artist Ali Cavanaugh, and I love her advice for new artists:
“Remember that it takes time to build up your skills. You need to have fun and take baby steps. Paint every day. Play with different surfaces, paints, and tools. Don’t limit yourself with perfectionist thinking that there is a “right” or “wrong” way to paint. I always say to artists – remember that you are on a journey. Don’t look at your paintings as individual masterpieces, putting that kind of pressure on yourself is creative suicide. Look at each piece as a stepping stone to the next painting. Each painting is a learning experience that builds wisdom and endurance on the journey. You never “arrive”. You grow and change, your art will grow and change. Enjoy the day to day experience in creating art.”
So much wisdom in that, and it was exactly what I needed to hear! In my quest to learn, sometimes it can get pretty confusing because of the seemingly opposing tips and techniques taught by different artists. Perhaps, I just need to shut it all out and do what I want to do.
Of course it doesn’t mean that I stop learning. Never stop learning, no matter what you’re doing, because the moment you stop learning, it is death to your skill, whether it be painting or acting or writing or cooking, etc.
I have to keep an open mind and absorb new techniques and lessons, but at the same time, I need to also focus on creating what I love in my own way.
Anyway, here are some of my paintings so far!
I guess you would have noticed that I’ve been painting mostly people (especially girls) and sunsets! These two subjects spark a lot of joy lately 🙂 🙂 You can take a look at my other paintings on my Instagram feed, or look for #100dayswithnataliesia.
Can’t believe that I am about 70% done! Woohoo!
Love,
Natalie