Can one be called to create? Paintings are running through my mind like a slideshow. But I've only done that one painting and that was accidental. Why would paintings be running through my head? I've tried thinking through the process in the hopes that it would prove to my head that I can't do it. That only encouraged my head to fast forward the slideshow.
So then I thought well maybe if I copy an image from a poster or print that would help me experiment. The finished product would only be for me anyway. So I found a nice photograph and I just stared at it too scared to start. Now I close my eyes and that's all I see from various angles.
While driving on the expressway, I "saw" the scene before me as a finished painting. My head is driving me nuts. I get the feeling this isn't going to stop until I put paint to canvas.
Am I losing my mind?
Sunday, July 26, 2009
4 comments:
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I spent a long time in the same place before I finally put pastel to paper. I still paint that way. I visualize the finished piece for a while before I begin. The difference now is that I see that visualization as a part of the painting process for me. It is the first step. I want to encourage you to see it that way, too. It makes it easier to take the next step. What is the absolute worse thing that can happen if you do? You might not like it. It may not match the vision in your head. So, you work on it some more. You keep practicing until the piece on the canvase and the vision in your head come close. Sometimes, during the process, something different happens and you will really like it, even if it doesn't exactly match what you visualized. You have the talent and the vision. Practice the skills. You have nothing to lose and so much to gain. Politely ask your negative inner voices to take a small vacation, just long enough for you to take that next step.
ReplyDeleteI have heard Lois mention that that happened to her. She saw a scene and it appeared in her mind as a painting. You'll have to ask her about that. You must do it!
ReplyDeleteI think as artists we all feel a little crazy at times, like we're losing our minds, but that is too much head game. Time to tap into your heart now and create. Just put a few dabs of paint down, but I think playing is the key here (and experiment). What painting have you done that you mentioned? Did you post it here somewhere? I just did a collage recently and for days I visualized pieces of it, I was getting ideas from other artists, etc. I sort of had a preconceived idea of where it was going, but once I started it went in a whole nother direction. I feel my inner spirit took ahold of the rubber stamps, etc from there. For me once I start, I can't stop. So that starting step, so vital.
ReplyDeleteI am actually quite intrigued by this painting in your head. You are teasing me a little. Maybe, just maybe once you get those first paint strokes down, post it here in process. Baby steps!!
Also, I feel that I often have to go into an incubation period and let the ideas fly around for a bit. So be patient.
I visualize all the time. Especially when reading. Sounds a little like drunk on a new love. It will become more comfortable and enjoyable as you accept your fated role as an artist.
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