It has been a while since I last posted and many things happened recently, but most importantly, I have been able to consistently paint and grow my skills, just like I wanted.
The first part of the Milan's program was not easy. I had a hard time getting my assignments done, especially the ones that involved flesh tones. It took me a long time to adjust to oil painting, especially because of the drying time, which would keep breaking my creative flow over and over again. I have now realized that I really don't like mixing or painting skin tones, and I have no intention of ever frustrating myself over that again.. the answer to my struggles? Monochromatic paintings!
About using oils... Yes, they're beautiful and they add so much to a piece. But for now I am happy exploring acrylics with mixed media. I might, here and there, add a glazing layer with oils just to make something pop... Maybe oils will be another era for me, maybe not.... who knows?!
I have seen so many people talk about "finding their voice" throughout the past few months, and I see that many artists struggle with finding their process. It has been challenging for me, too.. and I am happy to share 5 tips that have been helping me find my process along the way.
1. Don't get stuck in one project
If it doesn't flow, move on to the next one. This applies to assignments, too. When you move on to a different project or assignment, you can then go back to what you were working on (and possibly struggling with) with fresh eyes, which creates opportunity for new ideas to come, and avoids frustration.
2. Don't let assignments stop your flow
Assignments are important, yes, but playing around with your own materials and doing your own thing is just as important. Assignments don't allow you to do that, therefore, you must find time for creative exploration without expectations.
3. Learn from other places and teachers
There are so many places that you can get valuable information from. There is no way that only one school, or only one teacher can teach you absolutely everything that you need for your growth. Gather information from other places, from other teachers, and be flexible when it comes to learning. Everyone has their own way of doing things and what works for someone may not work for you. Art is subjective, and nothing is set in stone. Do what works for YOU and be unapologetic about it.
4. Get used to getting critiques
It is so hard to get a negative feedback about your work, but DON'T give up! Keep pushing through. Reflect about the negative feedback you've had. Ask yourself: How valuable is this opinion? How does this impact my work? How knowledgeable is this person who's giving me feedback? What can I do to be better? Do I actually want to fix something in my work? - Because HEY, it's okay if you don't want to do anything about it or change anything about it. Remember.. it's YOUR work!
5. Be free, be you
Experiment as much as you can. Take notes of things you like to do in your art. Keep making the marks you like to make. Don't be afraid of making mistakes... Mistakes can be painted over, collaged on, splattered on... It's through play and through creating that you are going to eventually find the things you like and the things you don't like. Don't do things you don't like, or, push through them - you might surprise yourself and have a breakthrough. Turn music on. Get loose. Watch the paint move, the ink flow, the collage paper get glued, and remember.. this is your art, your voice, your energy... if you do it freely, it will certainly look like you.
I could go on and on with this list, but I am going to save it for another blog post.
Meanwhile, I would love to know what helped you find your process in your art?
Tell me in the comments!
