5 Ways to BUILD ART SKILLS while HIBERNATING this Winter - Painting & Drawing Tips

The DARK COLD RAINY DAYS are HERE!! Winter is nearly upon us.

Ok, I'm sorry, I know the rest of Canada is already well into Winter.  Here on the west coast we haven't really started winter yet.  Certainly no snow. And temperatures are usually in the 6-9 degrees area.  But we do have many dark, dismal rainy days.  

IN THE QUIET OF THE DAY - Acrylic & Watercolour 16 x 20 Matted $650

Do you like to Hibernate in winter? . . .

I do.  Of course not in the true sense, I don't sleep all the time but I do tend to cocoon more in the house and of course my studio.  Max and I still bundle up and head out for walks and often a steaming hot chocolate greets me on our return.  

This is a time when my Creative Juices really flow. . . .

I don't worry about building up stock by creating tons of masterpieces.  It is my time to try new things, let my imagination flow.  For the next 6 weeks, that is my focus. 

5 Ways to Build Skills while hibernating in your Studio

1. Try a new Technique

As you know I am a realist and I do not work in acrylic or oil.  Corrections.  I tried monotypes using acrylics and loved it.  It was one of my 'new things' this year.  I loved the mixture of the abstract with my realism.  It was fun to make backgrounds with interesting shapes and colours and then impose my ideas on them.  Below, my project "Ducks on the Water" really took me to new places in so many ways. To learn more see my video with the complete project and take a look at my post "Have You Tried Monotypes?"and video Getting Started with Monotypes.  A piece of glass and a few acrylic paints and you are good to go.  (See above,  In the Quiet of the Day for another example of this type of work) 

Panel from "Ducks on the Water" note the random colour is all created by the monotype process

2. Make a Video

I know the whole world is going crazy with videos so nothing new there you say.  But what about making a video Artist Statement.  I have made two Artist Statement videos and have found them really useful for introducing myself and my work in new ways.  This type of video work involves taking clips, editing, dubbing in sound and . . . .  Lots more than just click camera and shoot.  iMovie's comes with my iPad and has lots of editing features that can really add splash and glitz to your video.  

Yes, it was a learning curve but Mr Google has lots of tutourials to help out with the tech stuff.  Have a look at my post "How to Write an Artist Statement - What the Heck are you Doing?"   and see below my videos for ideas on what kinds of content to include.   

Staging a Virtual Art Show - includes a 3 minute video, an Introductory Artist Statement
5 Keys for Creating a Virtual Art Talk - includes a 12 minute video, an expanded Artist Statement

Having live action clips of you working on a project, provides interest to your viewers

3.  Build Your Drawing Skills

Building skills is always at the back of my mind.  Looking for ways to inspire me to 'just practice' can sometimes be tough.  Here is one activity I find motivating. The focus is on one subject, filling the page with the image challenges you in many ways: composition, rendering, shading and more.  The 'What if I try this?' questions start happening.  When that happens I am usually humming and well into my work.  I love those moments.  Even when I walk with Max, I am busy thinking of new things to try and anxious to get back to work. 

To start you on your Repetition (practice)  Journey see my Post "Can Repetition REALLY be FUN?!" .  I have created a  FREE Downloadable Repetition is Fun Sheet PDF  with tulips to inspire you and a  video   Repetition Can be Fun with more ideas.  

TULIPS IN THE SUNSHINE - Sketchbook Practice - Doesn't this picture make you feel good and want to do more?

4. Retrain Your Inner Critic 

Have you noticed that your Inner Critic never takes a holiday?  He is always there, nattering at you whether you want it or not.  Takes some time in your practice to really work with this guy.  He is full of knowledge but has appalling Social and Language Skills. 

Check out my post "Turn Your Inner Critic into Your BFF" for new ways to communicate with him. It includes a video "How to turn your Inner Critic into Your  BFF" as well as more examples.  

 And my post "Have you ever got Trapped in the Web of PERFECTION?"  has a sketchbook activity that will stretch you and your Inner Critic.  It will help you 'get him into line'.  There is also  video support to further your discussion "Moving Away from Perfection" 

SUNFLOWERS GLOWING IN THE SUNLIGHT - Sketchbook Practice 

5. Finish up those Troublesome Projects 

 

There is always projects hiding on the shelf.  You know the ones.  They started with great ideas.  Paint was flying, your heart was singing.  Then suddenly fell flat.  You want to finish them but. You're Stuck.  I know what it is like.  Sometimes I leave them for a bit, take Max for a walk or pull out an art book.  And sometimes this works.  

But what you really need is Someone to talk too.  Someone to bounce ideas with. Someone with fresh eyes. An Art Coach/Mentor.   See my post "Have you every worked with a Visual Arts Mentor/Coach?" for a better idea of what this could look like.  This is that knowledgeable person you are looking for to give you the kind of feedback you need to grow.  This is not a critique, it is a discussion.  There will be examples, demonstrations of techniques, and more. 

 

Online Mentoring Session with Wendy Mould - Flexible schedule,  $75 for 3 sessions 30 minutes each.  

This is my last post for the year, I look forward to starting up once again January 7th. I have a great idea for your Hibernation - Building Skills with a Treasure Hunt! I look forward to sharing it with you.  

Have a Safe, Quiet Christmas and all the best for the coming New Year!!

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  

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