In my workshops I like to give “assignments,” or a set of parameters for each project. Rules to follow. A few restrictions….
Ironically, complete freedom is stifling. Limitations allow you to create more freely within the confines of the parameters. Rules provide freedom.
My “rules” for this little acrylic-sketch-practice-series are:
- Use existing wood only… kind of dirty and imperfectly cut… this has the effect of removing any pressure I would feel if I were using perfectly cut and sanded wood or pristine canvas.
- Five minutes tops for each one.
Here are some more acrylic sketch paintings from yesterday:
Always elephants.
Steve liked this one…
I’ve found it so helpful to give myself restrictions like this to keep myself from taking my painting too seriously, especially in the beginning when I’m trying to learn a new technique or work with a new medium (in this case, acrylic paint). I hope you’ll try it!
Happy painting!
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What are “Assignments”? They are mini tutorials of drawing (and now painting) exercises I do myself. I hope you will try some of them… drawing is a blast!!! Here are some past “Assignments”:
Assignment #31: Modified Blind Contours
Assignment #16: Blind Contour Giraffes
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October 27, 2008 at 6:23 pm
And, to illustrate… « Carla Sonheim: Snowball Journals
[...] I found these quotes in a book that I have from the library which illustrate my point of the previous post so beautifully! I hadn’t seen these before… I love when that happens! The more [...]
October 27, 2008 at 11:28 pm
grrl+dog
Nod nod nod,
Limits like te ones you set yourself relieve the pressure. Especially the old wood. I get intimidated by a fresh canvas.. and the quotes underline the point. Thanks.. this is giving me courage to “have a go” as hey say.
October 27, 2008 at 11:28 pm
grrl+dog
Nod nod nod,
Limits like the ones you set yourself relieve the pressure. Especially the old wood. I get intimidated by a fresh canvas.. and the quotes underline the point. Thanks.. this is giving me courage to “have a go” as hey say.
October 29, 2008 at 9:36 pm
My Mom the Artist « Hidden Art
[...] art every day, I may not get it posted if time doesn’t allow. As Carla Sonheim says, “Give Yourself Rules,” along with the quotes she added to reinforce this truth. Establishing this rule will give [...]
November 10, 2008 at 10:05 pm
Maj Carita
I love these critters! So fresh and alive!