Yesterday I started a small painting of a landscape from a photo I had taken in France. After all that inspiration in the museums I thought I could sit down and a beautiful landscape would just flow out of me. Well, it didn’t. I was going to ‘fix’ it today, but I never did, mainly because I just didn’t want to. I know that sounds like a bad attitude, but if I am not truly moved to paint something, really, what is the point? I thought I could work on it some more, then at least I would have another painting to put in the show in October, but I just never picked up a brush today. So I’ll probably throw it away.
I think I chose a landscape to paint yesterday just because I wanted to “paint a landscape” and there was nothing that moved me in the photo I chose to work from. Yes, it was a pretty landscape with a field, some trees, and little cottages in the distance. But there was nothing that grabbed me. When I paint I try to have a reason for painting something. And I mean a good reason, a purpose, something I want to express, or need to express. Not just “Oh, today I guess I’ll paint a landscape.” Obviously that doesn’t work for me because that’s what I did yesterday. I need to remember to ask myself, “what will the painting be about?” I’ve heard artists talk about writing down why you’re painting something and taping that to your easel. That way you don’t lose sight of what the painting is about because, really, without a purpose to the painting, what’s the point?
I spent some time today going through my photos from Paris and carefully choose some scenes that I feel strongly about. Scenes that have some kind of emotional quality. I’m not sure that’s the right word, but hopefully these next paintings will somehow be stronger and focused. We’ll see, at least I’ve got a plan. It’s important for me to have a direction, otherwise I muddle about and get nothing done.
Joan you are so eloquent about your frustration… I feel your pain!! However, I know you got a zillion shots in Paris and it sounds like you’ve had some time to (thoughtfully) select a few to run with. Don’t beat yourself up about the one that didn’t work!! Seriously, even with the BEST intentions: they’re not all gonna be grand slams or even modest successes. Right?? (I know you know that.) What you said about figuring out the REASON is so true!! Keep on keepin’ on!!
Diane, thank you for your thoughtful post, you are such a great supporter of my art and I appreciate you so much. And you even got in a sweet compliment by calling my frustration description eloquent! You’re absolutely right though, I just need to push through this bit of frustration I’m facing. I think we take two steps forward and one step back, well, I guess I’m taking that step backwards right now and it’s not fun. 🙁 thanks again, Joan