Stepping into a bigger studio…
Years ago, I remember moving into a much bigger studio. So big, in fact, I planned on sharing because it was more than I needed and felt too big. However, while getting the space ready, I realized I loved the spaciousness and decided to keep it for myself. That bigger...
Creating Amazing Texture with Paint
I sometimes add materials to my paintings, like paper, to create texture. Today I want to share with you a way you can create amazing texture with just paint. You make this texture with gesso before you start your actual painting. It creates effects that stay with...
Going from a small sketch to a large painting
Today I want to talk about something I am often asked about but rarely do. It is the particular way I move from a sketchbook to a large painting. Have a look here. I often work out ideas using sketches before starting a painting. I begin not just with one, but a...
How to get into the flow of your art
Today I am joined by Gay Hendricks, author of “The Big Leap,” and his new book “The Genius Zone.” Gay is a world-renowned expert on "connecting to our genius," that flow state, and offers a deeper understanding of what exactly this is and how to access it. Have a...
How to change intimidation into inspiration
I used to think the more great art I saw of others, the more inspired I would become - not just in my art, but also in my desire to make it. One of the best places to see a ton of great art is at Art Basel in Miami Beach, Florida. I saw so much incredible art....
What is fine art?
I define "fine art" as what I would make if I could make any art I wanted. For many years I supported myself by making illustrations. Sometimes I liked doing it, but mostly not. However, to start making my fine art seemed way out of reach. It seemed like a pipe dream....
How to choose for a Call for Entries
Today I thought I would share a few thoughts about increasing the likelihood your art will be accepted into a juried show. These three ideas came from volunteering for an exhibition in NYC. Listen here. The first realization is that your art, to stand out from the...
Is this missing in your art?
John Le Carre, the famous British spy writer, said, "The cat sat on the mat is not a story. The cat sat on the Dog's mat is a story." Why? It has to do with tension. When troubleshooting our art, we rarely talk about tension. However, it is needed to make our art...
What is your new story?
When I pause my artmaking, the one thing that gets my creative juices flowing are the stories of other creatives. What cool things are being made by others? How are they doing this, and why? I love learning from seeing and listening to the stories of other creatives....
The necessity of stopping
The season of my art making is changing. June, for me, marks the beginning of a time of more reflection. My productivity lessens to take stock of where I am and where I might be going next. Now, I write more and paint less. I reflect more. I try to hold off from doing...