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| A Failed Attempt |
I’m not one to hold back.
I knew that eventually in doing this painting challenge, there would
come some pretty very bad practice studies, so, as with the good, I’m also going to share
the bad.
As painters, we all go through highs and lows with the results
of our work. Sometimes what you see in your mind as a finished work doesn’t
turn out like you planned. As they say,
everything works in theory, but not so much in practice. To expand our knowledge and skill as artists,
we need to push ourselves into areas where we are not comfortable. For me, one of the least comfortable areas in
pastel painting is street scenes. I know
this going into the painting, but I also know that I’ll only improve by trying. I can study other artist’s paintings, go over
lessons both on line and in person, but I feel like a beginner. Only practice will resolve my discomfort.
Maybe it’s a lack of confidence. I don’t approach street scenes like I do
landscapes. I’m not as bold. I’m more
concerned with how the painting will turn out rather than just enjoying the
process. Today's practice challenge is a
5 x 7 island street scene. From my
viewpoint, it’s some of my worst work and I became so frustrated that I didn’t
even finish it. I had planned to have
vehicles on the street, and shoppers on the sidewalk, but after looking at the
buildings I just threw up my hands.
After reflecting on my reaction and getting over the
frustration, I realized that there is a lot to be learned from the failed
attempt. I can now take time and calmly analyze
where I went wrong, what areas I need to work on, and take steps to improve on
my next street scene. Is it a problem
for me? Yes, definitely at this moment
but I need to remember, problems are only challenges that give us
opportunities, opportunities to grow. (Not only in art, but in life in general.)
So, next time you confront a problem, remember that it’s just an
opportunity in disguise!
Keep painting! (even when they turn out really bad)
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