"So how do you DO this?"

Behind the Scenes: my process

One of the things that’s most fun for me about my painting career is that I made up (or more accurately) am making up the technique every day I paint. To do that requires basic knowledge of color and proportions (thank you art school!) but the rest takes a sense of daring and exploration. It takes a huge dose of “I don’t care if I fail at this idea — I just want to see if this works” kind of attitude. About half of the main basic steps of what has become my technique were arrived at by exploring, and honestly, they were what I thought at the moment to be mistakes. But then the next day, I’d pull out the painting again and stare at it and (sometimes) be surprised at how the ingredients chemically reacted with each other overnight. Sometimes the result was horrendous; sometimes amazing. For the latter outcome, it was then a matter of trying to remember what all went into creating the results.

So what exactly is the technique I came up with? The core is a secret. It will be revealed at the reading of my will. Just kidding. :). But yeah, I don’t share everything. But here is what I DO share.

Step 1: Find some really good inspirational photos I can use for color reference.

Step 2: Create a pencil sketch on my canvas.

Step 3: Build up the sketch with layers and layers of gesso and modeling compound so that the sketch becomes dimensional

Step 4: Cover the entire textured surface of the painting with metallic leaf.

Step 5: Apply many layers of paint onto the surface.

Step 6: Seal the painting with either satin varnish or solar resistant resin.

That’s it! Easy huh? It’s actually not easy at all.  Through the years, we’ve had to call chemists and pick their brains about why the paint did this or that. To develop this technique, I’ve made so many, many mistakes but that’s how you invent anything really. I kind of enjoy being half artist, half mad scientist. At least I’ve not blown up anything yet (that only happens when I’m in the kitchen).

How Art Can Help Us Cope with Stress

When life gets tough, finding ways to manage stress and keep our mental well-being in check is super important. Art, in all its forms, offers a fantastic outlet for expression and healing. Let’s dive into how getting creative can help us deal with stress and difficult moments.

The Healing Power of Art

Art therapy is a well-known practice that uses creative activities to boost mental health. Whether it’s painting, drawing, sculpting, or any other form of artistic expression, art therapy helps people explore their emotions, reduce anxiety, and develop coping skills. Creating art can be incredibly calming, helping to soothe the mind and give a sense of achievement.

Art as a Way to Express Yourself

Sometimes, words just aren’t enough. During stressful times, it can be hard to put feelings into words. Art provides a non-verbal way to express complex emotions. This is especially helpful for those who struggle to talk about their feelings. By turning emotions into visual forms, people can gain insights into their inner world and start healing.

Reducing Stress Through Creativity

Getting creative can really lower stress levels. Studies show that even a short time spent on artistic activities can reduce cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. The process of making art requires focus and concentration, which can take your mind off stressors and give you a mental break. This “flow” state, where you’re fully immersed in the activity, is similar to meditation and can lead to deep relaxation and well-being.

Building Resilience with Art

Art can also help build resilience by providing a positive outlet for dealing with challenges. Creating art can give a sense of control and empowerment, as you make choices and see tangible results from your efforts. This can be especially empowering when other parts of life feel out of control. Plus, making something beautiful or meaningful can bring hope and positivity, even in tough times.

Art as a Way to Connect with Others

Art can also bring people together. Joining group art activities or sharing your artwork with a community can create a sense of belonging and support. This social aspect of art can be very comforting, offering chances for connection and shared experiences. Whether through online art classes, community projects, or just sharing your creations with friends and family, art can help maintain social bonds and reduce feelings of isolation.

in stressful and difficult times, art is a valuable tool for coping and healing. Through creative expression, we can explore our emotions, reduce stress, build resilience, and connect with others. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, creating art can provide comfort and relief, helping you navigate life’s challenges with more ease.

HEALING ART

In shades of light and shadows deep,

Art whispers secrets we must keep.

With brush and stroke, a silent hymn,

It heals the hearts where sorrows brim.

Clay and canvas, ink and thread,

Restore the soul where words have fled.

Each creation, a gentle sigh,

Bringing solace, drawing nigh.

Through tangled thoughts and weary mind,

Art’s embrace is soft, refined.

In every hue, a story spun,

A sanctuary for everyone.

With every line and crafted part,

We find ourselves, through healing art.

Crafting the Perfect Title for Your Artwork

Quite honestly, selecting an ideal title for a painting can be as intricate for an artist as the creation process itself. A thoughtfully chosen title can elevate the viewer’s experience, offer insights into the artists’ creative journey, and add depth to the piece. If you’ve ever needed some help in coming up with the perfect title, here are some strategies that might help you find the right title for your art. 

1. Capture the Core of Your Creation

Begin by contemplating the central message or emotion you wish to convey. What sparked the creation of this piece? What emotions or thoughts do you want to evoke in the viewer? A title that encapsulates the essence of your work can forge a stronger connection with your audience. 

2. Employ Descriptive Terms

Descriptive titles can provide context and assist viewers in understanding what they are observing. For instance, if your artwork portrays a tranquil landscape, a title like “Mist Rising” or “Peaceful Sunrise Over the Ridgeline” can set the scene and evoke a specific mood. 

“Begin by contemplating the central message or emotion you wish to convey…”

3. Integrate Symbolism

Consider the symbols and metaphors within your artwork. Titles that allude to these elements can add layers of meaning and encourage viewers to delve deeper into your work. For example, a piece featuring a solitary tree might be titled “Blissful Solitude” or “Guardian of the Mountain.” 

4. Simplify

Sometimes, simplicity is key. A short, memorable title can be more impactful than a lengthy, complex one. Strive for clarity and avoid overly complicated or obscure references that might perplex your audience. 

5. Play with Words

Clever wordplay or puns can make your title stand out and infuse a touch of personality into your work. Just ensure that the wordplay aligns with the tone and theme of your artwork. 

6. Gather Feedback

Don’t hesitate to seek input from friends, fellow artists, or mentors. They might offer perspectives you hadn’t considered and help you refine your title. When I feel stuck regarding what to name a painting of mine, I usually ask my wife Joy. Even if she doesn’t come up with the perfect idea, she can steer me in a good direction. I’m also known to stick a photo of an unnamed painting on Facebook and ask for title suggestions. I almost always get some great ideas (and it’s fun to include other people in the creative process!

Choosing a title for your art is a creative endeavor in itself. By capturing the core of your creation, employing descriptive terms, integrating symbolism, simplifying, playing with words, and gathering feedback, you can find a title that enhances your artwork and resonates with your audience.

The Worst Advice I’ve Ever Received as an Artist

Every artist’s journey is filled with moments of inspiration, growth, and, unfortunately, some misguided advice. Reflecting on my own path, one piece of advice stands out as particularly detrimental: “Stick to one style and never change.”

At first glance, this advice might seem practical. Consistency can indeed help build a recognizable brand. However, for an artist, this can be incredibly stifling. Art is about exploration, experimentation, and evolution. Being confined to a single style can hinder creative growth and limit the potential to discover new techniques and perspectives.

“Embrace change, experiment boldly, and let your art evolve naturally…”

When I first started, I was eager to find my unique voice. I experimented with various mediums, styles, and subjects. However, after receiving this advice, I felt pressured to conform to a single style that was gaining some attention. I spent months creating similar pieces, but over time, I felt my passion waning. My work became repetitive, and I lost the joy of creation. It wasn’t until I decided to break free from this constraint that I truly began to flourish. I allowed myself to explore different styles again, blending elements from various influences. This not only reignited my passion but also led to a more authentic and dynamic body of work. My audience appreciated the diversity and evolution in my art, and I felt more fulfilled as an artist.

The lesson here is clear: while consistency has its place, it should never come at the cost of your creative freedom. Embrace change, experiment boldly, and let your art evolve naturally. The worst advice I ever received taught me the importance of staying true to my creative instincts and the value of artistic growth. So, to all the artists out there, remember: your journey is uniquely yours. Don’t let anyone box you into a single style. Explore, evolve, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Your art will be richer for it.

Overcoming Artist’s Block: Practical Tips

“I look into my creative soul for an idea…ANY idea. And it’s just a dark, silent abyss. I have absolutely nothing creative going on in my head. What do I do to get that spark back?”

First of all, look…every artist faces artist’s block at some point. It can be frustrating, but it’s a natural part of the creative process, so please be kind to yourself. I don’t have a cure-all, but I do have a few ideas you might try that have helped me:

 1. Start Creating Sometimes, the best way to overcome a block is to simply start. Put something—anything—on the canvas or sketch pad. It doesn’t have to be perfect. The act of creating can help break the inertia and get your creative juices flowing. 

2. Change Your Surroundings A change of scenery can do wonders for your creativity. Travel, visit an art museum, or even just take a walk in a new neighborhood. New experiences can provide fresh inspiration and new perspectives. 

“Creative block can be frustrating, but it’s a natural part of the creative process…”

3. Try Creative Exercises Engage in different creative exercises to stimulate your mind. This could be doodling, experimenting with new materials, or trying a different art style. These exercises can help you break out of your routine and spark new ideas. 

4. Take a Break Sometimes, the best thing you can do is step away from your work. Take a break, do something you enjoy, and give yourself time to recharge. When you return to your art, you may find that you have a fresh perspective. 

5. Seek Inspiration Look for inspiration in other artists’ work, read inspirational art quotes, or watch documentaries about artists. Seeing how others overcome their challenges can motivate you to push through your own block. 

6. Set Small Goals Break your project into smaller tasks and set achievable goals. This can make the process feel less overwhelming and help you build momentum as you complete each step. 

Trust me, artist’s block is a common challenge, but it doesn’t have to halt your creativity. Every artist goes through this at some point. Like it or not, it’s just part of the journey. If you have an idea for something that’s helped you, please by all means share that idea here in the comments!

Why Purchase Original Artwork?

In a world dominated by mass production and digital reproductions, the allure of original artwork remains timeless and profound. Owning an original piece of art is not just about decorating a space; it’s about investing in a unique creation that carries the artist’s vision, passion, and craftsmanship.

Uniqueness and Personal Connection: In contrast to mass-produced art you can purchase in a mass retailer or box store, original art pieces are each totally unique. They provide a direct link to the artist and their creative process. Every detail — the brushstrokes, textures, and color selections capture the artist’s feelings and ideas at the moment of creation.

Supporting Artists and the Art Community: Buying original artwork provides direct support to artists and their work. It allows them to keep creating and enriching the cultural scene. By investing in original art, you nurture creativity and help artists maintain their livelihoods, and this is as encouraging to the artist as it is humbling. That someone would part with hard earned cash for one of my paintings — that demands the very best I can do every time I paint.

Investment Potential: Original artwork has the potential to increase in value over time. Although not every piece will become a financial asset, many artworks appreciate as the artist’s reputation expands. This potential for growth makes original art a valuable investment, both in terms of financial return and aesthetic enjoyment.

“That someone would part with hard earned cash for one of my paintings — that demands the very best I can do every time I paint.”

Emotional and Aesthetic Value: Art possesses the ability to stir emotions, ignite inspiration, and alter environments. A unique piece can bring happiness, stimulate contemplation, and craft a distinctive atmosphere in your living or working space. The bond you form with an original artwork can offer enduring contentment and a sense of accomplishment.

Cultural and Historical Significance: Original artworks frequently embody the cultural and historical milieu of their creation. They act as concrete chronicles of artistic trends, societal shifts, and individual stories.

To wrap it up, purchasing original artwork is an investment in creativity, culture, and personal enrichment. It offers a unique blend of aesthetic pleasure, emotional connection, and potential financial gain, making it a valuable addition to any collection.

How do you determine the best size artwork to purchase?

I have found that about half the people who wander into my studio don't seem to be too worried about the size of the artwork they're considering purchasing. They have a general idea of what might look correct and from photos they send me of my painting installed on their wall, they're often spot on when it comes to the size of the artwork. The other half of my clients go home and measure their walls. That may be really helpful to avoid a mistake. I've had people tell me they've cut pieces of cardboard to different sizes and tacked them up to the wall. That's a great idea. The other option is to enlist my help with sizing. In this case, my client sends me a photo of the wall in question along with some basic dimensions, and then I take the photo into Photoshop and insert different sizes of gray rectangles on the wall, so my client can see a variety of proportions and sizes.  Either way, cardboard or Photoshop can help you visualize exactly what a specific size painting would look like on your wall.

So how do you figure out what size is really best for your space? It kind of depends on a few things. First of all, how big is the wall and what other art is already installed on it? You might consider a small piece of art as an accent piece. An accent piece works best when it contains the complementary color of the main color in the room. It can also be much brighter in color than you'd want in a larger piece. Think of a gemstone on a black velvet background. An accent piece can scream at you "LOOK AT ME!" and that works because it's small. 

Or you might need a stand alone piece above a bed or couch. In that case, the size of the bed or couch would determine the optimal size of the painting installed above it. I always recommend choosing artwork that's just a bit smaller than the width of the piece of furniture it's hanging above. If it's too large, it will look ridiculous (see above photo). 

The other (and uh...my favorite) option is to choose a very large "heart stopper" piece of art on a large wall. This sort of artwork should be a real "statement piece". Where the accent piece can shout at the viewer, the statement piece should sing (very loudly). The size and the subject matter should work together to produce an emotional response. I once had a 6' x 8' painting hanging in the back of my studio, and I could always tell when a studio visitor rounded the corner because I'd hear things like "Oh...my...gosh" followed by silence as they just stood there. I love that! That's exactly what I wanted when I painted that piece. 

So what do you want? What do you need when you consider artwork for your home? Whether it's small, medium, large or gigantic...talk to me. We can figure something out that works best with your specific wall and color scheme. 

"So, what's this painting worth?"

I don’t know why I get this question, but a few times a year, I get a call from someone with a painting to sell me. The call goes like this: “Hey, my grandmother has an original signed oil painting and it’s really nice. It’s signed ‘Wilson’ and she said she paid a lot for it. What is it worth, do you know? And would you be interested in it if I sold it to you at a discount?”

So then, I explain to them that I’m not an art appraiser and I don’t run an art auction house. I’m just a painter, and although I understand it’s a “signed” painting, that really doesn’t mean anything to me because heck, when I took my first oil painting class at the age of nine, I signed my paintings when I was done, but I assure you, I painted nothing at the age of nine that was worth anything at all except to my parents.

“ If your grandma enjoyed the painting,

it’s fulfilled it’s mission”

Honestly, you are probably okay just selling the piece at a garage sale. If that just makes you cringe, then here are a couple of things you might try first. You might take it into a reputable art gallery (where they sell the work of many artists) and ask the gallery manager for some advice. They may have much better advice than I have, because I’m just an individual artist and not a gallery manager or art auctioneer. You might also google the artists name just in case there’s something written up about them. That might give you a clue. If there is something written up about the artist, you might try to find a gallery that carries their work and approach the gallery manager. They may (??) actually be willing to purchase the piece if it’s worth it to them.

But again, 95% of the time, it’s probably not worth the time involved in trying to sell grandma’s painting if it requires doing more than what I’ve just suggested. The whole reason to purchase artwork is because it’s something you enjoy. If your grandma enjoyed the painting, it’s fulfilled it’s mission in life and the artist should be happy to hear it brought joy to grandma. That’s awesome. That’s really what art is all about.

How to deal with criticism as an artist

Beauty or just a big mess?

First off, I love creating art. I pour my whole heart and soul into every single painting I create, and so I have a whole lot of me invested in my work. Most artists I know understand exactly what I’m talking about. Creating art is risky. See, if people love what you create, it feels amazing. If people don’t love what you create, it can be completely devastating. So I say that creating art is risky because with every piece you create, you’re basically putting your soul out there for the whole world to judge.

Or not.

That last sentence describes my way of looking at my own art abilities when I was a grade schooler. I was always the best artist in each of my classes growing up and since I was NOT the top of my class when it came to team sports or academics, I made my artistic abilities my key to feeling accepted by my classmates. That scheme worked great until high school. In tenth grade, I realized that I was no longer the “best artist” in my grade and I kind of fell apart. By my late teens, I realized I was just using art as a tool to get what I really wanted: to feel like I deserved to be here, earning my right to breathe, and I have learned that no ability I could possibly have can give me that kind of inner-soul validation. That’s got to come from somewhere else. Art cannot bear that kind of weight.

And so, over time, I have learned that my art abilities were just given to me to enjoy. That’s it. They are my key to fun. They are not my key to feeling acceptable as a human. And when that weight is taken off of art, creativity can just be enjoyed, so nothing is on the line. If people like my artwork, I’m happy. I like it, and I’m glad when someone else does too. If someone doesn’t like it, that’s got to be okay. Nothing is on the line. So when someone critiques my work, I really try to take a deep breath and listen. Over and over again, I have been able to glean something from every critical comment. Every artist has got to be okay with the idea that they are not perfect; that they make mistakes and that they are still growing. The most difficult people I’ve ever been around are those that are convinced that they never make mistakes. The other group of people that are really difficult to be around are those that think they SHOULD NEVER make mistakes and when they do, they nose dive into depression. Both types of people are arrogant…two sides of the same coin. I don’t want to be like that.

“I have learned that my art abilities were just given to me to enjoy. That’s it.”

The man I want to be informs the artist I want to be. My faith tells me that my Creator loves me and approves of me. That faith says that one day I will stand before him. Him. Only him. That faith teaches me that I am forgiven and loved and approved by him already. And if that is true, then there doesn’t exist anyone whose critique or disapproval can undo the approval my creator promises me I already have.

Honestly, that’s what I remind myself every time I receive a critique. Nothing is on the line. And in every critique, if I listen, there may just be an element or two of wisdom and I can use that wisdom to improve my craft. And because I love my craft, I want it to be constantly improving. Critiques are just part of that.

Question 12: "What do you do when you have a mental block?"

“In the Heart of the Woods”

This question definitely falls into the category of “Last but not Least”: “What do you do when you have a mental block?”. This is such a difficult question to answer, and THAT may baffle non artists. I’ve never heard of a doctor or a car mechanic or an attorney or an insurance salesperson say “I just have no idea where to start. My head isn’t in this at all.” Maybe they say that. Maybe I’m making a huge assumption based on ignorance. I just know that when it comes to creating…creating something out of nothing, it requires inspiration. It really does. Whether that’s writing a song that has never been sung, or writing a poem that’s never been spoken or painting a painting that’s never been seen…creating from nothing requires an almost “spiritual” energy.

If that is an accurate way of looking at it, then because I am not God (the source of unlimited spiritual energy), I have only a bit here and there. I am a rechargeable “AA” battery, and not a cold fusion reactor. And so, a creative person absolutely needs to recharge their AA battery or nothing will happen creatively at all.

So my answer to the question of what to do when I have a “mental block” is a very person answer. I have my own answer, but if YOU were asking me this question, rather than telling you my own answer, I would first have to ask you a question. My question would be “What is ‘life-giving’ to you? What recharges you?” Maybe it’s cooking. Maybe it’s hanging out with friends, or hiking, or traveling, or reading, or singing in the shower, or finger-painting or taking a long drive. Do that. Do whatever recharges your own AA battery. My answer is MY answer and I'm fine sharing MY answer when specifically asked, but I don’t think this is the place to do that. See, your answer to a truly “spiritual question” is also a very deeply “personal answer”. Your answer is as custom fit to you as mine is to me. So I make it a rule of thumb not to give my own answer unless I’m actually asked for it.

The point though is, if you are creative and you have a mental block, you need to figure out how you’re put together so to speak. What is akin to “inhaling”? If you exhale (create), you HAVE to inhale to keep the whole process going. This is very, very difficult in our modern western society, because time does not allow for “luxuries” like taking a walk or savoring a slow, quiet afternoon, or turning the lights out and listening to a Brahms Symphony. The way we look at these “luxuries” is all wrong though. We are humans, not robots. We require real, spiritual input to create beauty. That input is not a luxury. That is real. That is life. And that is deeply, deeply human.