With so many distractions like work and home obligations, it can be hard to have ideas at hand to always have a painting in the works. I’ve learned many techniques from my writing that can certainly be applied to the artist. Here are four techniques from blogging that fit into an artist’s world.
1. Keep an art calendar.
I’ve kept a list in my mind about the paintings that I’ve always wanted to do. Now that list has grown long. As with my blogging, I’ve created an art idea spreadsheet so for the days I want to paint, but don’t know where to begin. I will schedule these on occasion to make sure I get in the studio.
2. Have your idea journal handy at all times.
As I learned while writing my first mystery, you never know when ideas come forward. The Muse is difficult that way. I always have my handy Moleskine with me to take down what the Muse is saying.
3. Maintain a photo reference file.
I often will browse the reference photo section on WetCanvas. Many times that’s all I need to take up my paintbrush. Other times, I’ll tuck an image away to keep for later, say when I’m in the mood to do a still life. I like to keep reference images around for things that I may add to a painting like vegetables for a still life or a cow for a farm scene.
4. Run an ongoing series.
Every time I travel, I take lots of photographs. I take notes. From this information, I’ll build a series of paintings or at least ideas. I’ve done several gate paintings that I’ll return to now and again.
While planning seems to go against the grain of the spontaneity of art, getting a handle on your thoughts and ideas can help you always have a painting in the works.
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