Turn your Inner Critic into Your BFF - Painting and Drawing Tips

It is a wonderful feeling to open fresh paints, pick up a new pencil, shake out the canvas.  Excitement is in the air.  Life is Good. 

LITTLE TROOPER - Sketchbook Practice, Pen & Ink 

But then disaster strikes!! . . .  

You are frustrated, unhappy, disappointed.  Materials are put away and creativity is done.  

What caused that sudden change.  Why did your mood change.  How can something so much fun and filled with yearning and excitement change so quickly.  It was your Inner Critic (IC).  He trashed you.  (I have never really decided if  IC is male or female, but calling him male seems to feel right to me. 

"That line is wrong. Those shapes look dumb.  Boy, you are really bad at this."  Some of his more favourite comments. He is generally mean, outspoken and doesn't give a darn for your feelings.  

But your IC really loves you and wants to help you!!

Right.  I know, you are now thinking I am crazy.  But IC does care about you; he is trying to protect you from disappointment. He has a wealth of information.  After all he sits in your brain and watches everything.  He remembers everything.  However, IC has no Social Skills and the Language Development Level of a 3 year old.

Drawing the Bow - 3 lines, trying different angles.  

You need to teach your Inner Critic how to talk to you. . . .

The next time your start a project, don't let him trash talk you. Nip him at the bud.  When he says the line is wrong, ask him why. Where should that line go. How long should it be.  What part of it is right. Now let him show you.  

Here's how to teach IC to talk in a productive way: 

First of all, teaching IC has several implications for how your work.  You need to make a few small changes in your techniques.  For example, when starting a layout drawing keep your lines light so they are easy to change without damaging your paper.  Dark enough to see but easy to erase. 

After Mr. IC is happy with a line, the others are erased. 

Move your eraser a long way from where your are working.  (4 or 5 feet will do)  Now start your drawing.  As soon as IC jumps in, stop.  His first comment will be about a line or shape being wrong.  Your first reaction was always to erase and start again.  Don't erase.  Ask him why it is wrong.  Is it all wrong or only part of it.  Lightly make a new line.  Does it work.  Try another if not.  It make take 2 or 3 times to get one that works.  Now, erase the ones you and IC don't want.  

For more on Training your Inner Critic see my video: How to Train your Inner Critic

See How to Train the Inner Critic Video Here

Sometimes things are harder to resolve with IC. . .

When a quick change doesn't work it is time to step back from the drawing.  Most of us tend to sit when drawing.  (Let's face it, that is way more comfortable than standing) But when sitting our work is flat and very close.  It is hard to get a good perspective of what is happening.  Hold your work upright and move back.  

This is where IC can really shine. . .

As you stand back start asking him questions: What does he like? Why? What is not working? What is the matter with it? How can it be fixed?  What is the best way to go about it?  Don't be surprised if IC is overwhelmed.  He is use to giving a quick criticism and moving on. Suddenly he is expected to justify his comment and come up with a solution.  

Place picture in upright position and study it and reference at various stages of the drawing. 

A solution may not be right there . . .

IC may be stumped.  Give him a little space.  Don't sneak in an make a change, talk it over with him and together move forward.  I find only disappointment comes with those desperate quick changes.

When IC and I are having trouble with a drawing, we will often: 

*go for a walk.  Somehow not seeing the image makes it easier to visualize what is needed

*check another reference.  Sometimes not understanding what you are trying to draw or paint makes it hard to visualize what needs to be done. A shot from a different angle may explain everything.

*look in reference book.  You are probably like me and have a library of books to look at and of course check the internet too

*study the reference and drawing and ask more questions: What makes this shape look like a tree/owl/flower?  How does my eye know it curls/lays flat?  What kind of pattern tells me it is cedar rather then pine tree?  What are its 'treeness' qualities?  (not sure if treeness is a word but you know what I mean)

*dissect my values pattern.  IC knows that is often a problem for me.  Because I work in layers I don't always remember to bump up the values in another area.

You will find if you encourage these types of questions and discussions with IC that rather than destructive criticism you will be having very productive conversations. (with you and IC of course).  Just remember, don't let him trash talk.  Make him work.  

Do you have big/small projects on the go?  
Looking for a sounding board, help, suggestions, techniques. You and IC looking to expand your discussion.  I am available for Online Coaching/Teaching  (3 sessions 30 minutes each $75). more info here.

If you are looking for Live Outdoor Sketching Classes they are now underway.  See info below.  Contact me to set something up. 

Outdoor Sketching Classes !! 

Ready to go out and do some sketching?  Have fun painting and sketching while learning new tips and techniques. Capture a moment in time without worrying about the World and the crazy problems of today.  Come Join me for a session or two.  

Class Size: 3  Rescheduling for Bad weather.  Covid  Rules and Social Distancing will be followed.  

Sessions 2.5 hours, in local North Surrey Parks, Tuesdays 10-12:30 or Saturdays 10-12:30.  

Cost: $45  
June Dates: Tuesday, June  16, 23, 30.   Saturdays June  20, 27

Save a Spot Now. Contact Wendy    More information: artbywendy.com 

 

Be sure to like and share my posts.  You won't miss a single post if you Follow by Email 

Have a great Artful Day,

Wendy  

Have you ever worked with a Visual Arts Mentor/Coach?? - Painting and Drawing Tips

Robert Bateman turned 90 on Sunday, May 24, 2020.  He is a very successful Canadian wildlife artist, with a very strong International Reputation and following.  Yes, he is still painting.  He paints every day. Usually 10-15 major works each year.   He has completed over 700 in his career. 

 

On Line Mentoring & Coaching is happening now at Art By Wendy's 

In reading an article about his work I noticed the following comments by Robert.   "I like lots of opinions on my paintings.  I'm not private about it.  Part of family gatherings is coming to look at what grandpa's working on.  And then I'm interested in everybody's opinions on it - even the grandkids." He regularly gets his wife's opinion on his work as well. He says,  "I'm lucky I'm married to an artist, Brigit, who has a good sense of taste."  (see full article here)

Wendy teaching at Opus Art Store 

Do you get lots of opinions on your work?? . . .

Why would you want to hear other's comments? . .

I found it interesting that after working his whole life in the arts that Robert still wants to hear how his work is received by others. He wants to know what others see when they look at his art.  What they feel.  What catches their eye. What confuses them.  

This is an important concept for all artists, no matter their discipline.  Listening to what others say about your work/performance helps both in the development of your work and in marketing your work.

 No, I don't mean you rush out and change what your doing because of someone's comment.  However, if something is confusing, revisit it.  You need to follow your passion.  It is the only way to develop work that is truly yours.  But were you carried away with the moment and what seems obvious to you is confusing to others.  Are the things they like different from your thoughts.  Maybe those new ideas should be included in your analyse of the piece or in your marketing strategy.  Is this an untapped area.  

Working with a group of artists on Marketing Strategies - All Day Marketing Workshop

However, not all comments are useful. . .

Don't get me wrong.  If your whole family says it is wonderful and your are amazing, take it. Love it.  We all need encouragement and support.  Making art of any kind can be demoralizing.  

But you need other types of opinions as well . .. 

Robert's comment that he was lucky because he was married to an artist with very good taste is important.  Brigit, his wife, understands his goals.  She understands where he wants a painting to go.  She is not there to tell him how to move his brush, she is there to act as a sounding board.  She understands the important elements of making good art.  Her comments would reflect this understanding. 

This is the role of a Mentor/Coach.

"Pick of the Herd" - matted 16 x 20 inches $500
see Creative Story starting here

 I am excited to tell you that I am now taking on artists for Mentoring/Coaching

Rates: 3- 30 minute sessions: $75 +tax

Here is How to start: 

1.  Contact Me for an initial phone/interview - if writing include a brief paragraph describing your current goals.  Include your website or other social media links

2.  After initial interview a time frame based on your goals will be set up to start your sessions.  

**Due to Covid all sessions will be on line with Zoom. 

What to expect:

You decide the focus for your sessions:  review/discuss, add new strategies to your current projects:  talk through your art business plan with an eye to suggest strategies to help you achieve your goals; review your art portfolio with advice on how to improve it.  I'll answer any/all of your questions in the time we have.  All sessions will be confidential. 

My Qualifications - A Short Synopsis

For 11+ years, I have been supporting Artists as an instructor, presenter and writer of both the development and business of art making.  Working with beginners to advanced, in different styles and mediums, helping them to move forward in both their creative and financial goals.  I am a successful, wildlife artist with Signature Statue with two national art groups.  I have served as an Executive Member for over 18 years on various Art Groups.  I am presently on the executive member and a Director for Artswest Art Group.  I am an advisor and member of a steering committee for 2 other art organizations.  I am a Finalist for the 2020 YWCA Women of Distinction  for my volunteer contributions to the Ats and Cultural Design in BC.  

You can learn more about me on my website: www.artbywendy.com  and of course perusing this blog

What can you do it if a Private Mentor is not for you?.?.?

Connect with 1 or 2 other like minded artists and organize your own session.  Meet once a month to discuss/review work completed, new work underway, goals you have set, business plans you are making.  Have an agenda and plan for the meetings and keep them professional.  Visiting can be done afterwards. 

I worked with a group for 8 months.  They really kept me focused, accountable and learning.  All of us made giant leaps in both our creative and business goals.  

Next post, "Rabbits in the Garden" - a sketchbooking activity that will energize your creative juices.  This post is a combo  - written information + video

LITTLE FRIENDS ON THE TRAIL - Mixed Media 

Update on the Paint Off:
Sad to say my painting "Little Friends on the Trail" was not a winner.  But they were a real winner for me.  Being new to the field of Mixed Media, it forced me to study and learn lots.  Using textured material, tissue, saran wrap, gold foils with acrylic and watercolour was huge learning curve.  I was very pleased with the whole experience.  (Want more info on an On Line Mixed Media Paint Off, see posts starting here) 

Outdoor Sketching Classes Starting Soon!! 

Yes, I will take 2 in a class for Outdoor Sketching starting as soon as the weather is more stable.  Covid  Rules and Social Distancing will be followed.  

Sessions 2.5 hours, in local North Surrey Parks, Tuesdays 10-12;30 or Saturdays 10-12:30.  

$45  Get on the Wait List Now. Contact Wendy

Great Opportunities for Artists: 

 Artist Calls: Arts Council of Surrey Info@artscouncilofsurrey.ca for Entry Forms

 Arts 2020: Juried Show with Cash Prizes for 5 Different Categories.  Hosted by Arts Council of Surrey and Surrey Art Center.  Digital Entry.  Deadline: June 5.  Free to  Enter.  No Theme. 

Be sure to like and share my posts. 

You won't miss a single post if you Follow by Email 

Have a great Artful Day,

Wendy