Knockout Expessionism

Often I watch other people begin a new painting and some how within the first Few minutes they hit what I call "Brain Lock". We all experience this at some point in our process of being a creative force. The truth is... there is no truth to what we do beyond this point. Good news is I have a key to unlock all your creativity. I warn you this is not for the faint of heart so be prepared to step way outside of the box on this one! Not to worry, my spirit will be over your shoulder to praise you for being a true expressionist.

Are you ready to Ruuuuummmble?

Round1

Now that you have decided what to paint lets think about how you would normally start. Close your eyes and take the largest brush you own and load it with a few colors and attack the canvas with reckless abandon. Continue on as if to destroy the canvas with random acts of paint. The more violent the better so no easy listening music in the background here folks. Once you have destroyed the canvas with paint walk away for no less than a 15 minute Latte break.

Round 2

Now take a pencil, charcoal or (dark) paint and draw your picture in less than 5 minutes on top of the previous layer of gobble goop. The quicker you draw it the better. We are not concerned with accuracy here! Keep the drawing moving the entire time never stopping to process any critical thoughts you may have. You have now made it to the third and final found. Walk away and have an espresso for ten minutes.

Round 3

This is the knockout round. For this you will need a palette knife or large 1to2 inch flat brush.

Load up the knife or brush with as much paint as it will hold without dripping all over you in a light color or white . Pretend you are the sun and place this highlighted color wherever you want people to see. Note...Paint these highlights as if you are revealing areas that are to be allowed to witness by your viewer. Finally add small amounts of color around and in the highlights, as if you were putting jewelry on the painting.

Knockout your paintings with expressive qualities by relating what you do with paint to what we do in life. Destroy the painting. Build a foundation for the idea. Compel the viewer to feel.

I hope this challenge opens up a new energy in your work. Good luck!

Waiting Wall

Today, I realize I have trouble sending my paintings out into the world to be seen before a certain period of time has passed. Over this waiting period I will bring my painting out and observe. What am I looking for? I view it for its emotional content. I try to separate myself from the art spirit that I once was when creating the piece. I usually find that what I once thought to be imperfections are now what make the painting unique. I think one of the most difficult lessons in creating a great work of art would be to never see your painting as a painting.

I challenge you to allow some time to pass before evaluating your work. I think you may be surprised to find new ways to see.