Today, I want to share some valuable insights from YouTube art teacher Dianne Mize that have helped me transform the way I approach my paintings. You see, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of starting a new piece, only to find ourselves drowning in frustration as we struggle to make it work. But fear not, because there are practical steps we can take to turn that frustration into anticipation and joy.
One of the most striking analogies Dianne offers is comparing the process of painting to that of a musician preparing for a concert. Just as musicians dedicate hours to practice and warm-up before hitting the stage, we artists can benefit immensely from establishing a pre-painting routine. Instead of diving headfirst into a canvas, take some time to warm up your artistic muscles. Try quick gesture studies or color sketches in your sketchbook to get into the flow before tackling your main piece.
Moreover, getting to know your subject intimately before even touching the canvas can make a world of difference. Whether it’s through gesture drawing, color studies, or value sketches, familiarizing yourself with your subject allows you to approach your painting with confidence and clarity. Planning your composition off canvas, considering factors like light direction and visual path, sets a strong foundation for your artwork to flourish.
Dianne’s emphasis on learning skills off canvas resonates deeply with me. Just as you wouldn’t want a surgeon operating without proper training, or musicians performing without practice, we shouldn’t expect our paintings to come to life without honing our skills beforehand. Practicing our techniques prior to diving into a piece not only enhances the quality of our work but also keeps us engaged and excited throughout the painting process.
And here’s a golden tip from Dianne that I can’t stress enough: take frequent breaks. It’s easy to become so engrossed in a painting that we lose sight of what’s really happening on the canvas. Stepping away for a moment allows us to return with a fresh perspective, enabling us to see our work with clarity and make necessary adjustments.
Remember, painting is not just about creating art; it’s about embracing the journey and enjoying the process. So let’s adopt these tips from Dianne Mize, infuse our practice with dedication and mindfulness, and watch our artistic skills soar to new heights.
As Vincent van Gogh once said, “I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart.” So let’s dive into our art with passion and dedication, knowing that every stroke brings us closer to mastery.
Keep creating,
Linda
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One response to “Artist to Artist Challenge: #11 – Improving your skills with Warm Ups”
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Love seeing your wedding paintings
And that you created a business from your art…how creative and entrepreneurial.
Hugs
Marilyn
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