Watercolor & More!

by Janice Tingum
Home     eBook     Bio     Demos     Galleries     Reviews     Markets     Inspiration     Frugal     Books for Artists     Links     Contact      
11 More Ideas to Get out of a Painting Rut:
 
  • Re-evaluate the compositions of your paintings. Ask a few fellow artists to critique the compositions, as well. Read Design & Composition Secrets of Professional Artists published by International Artist. See review in Reviews & Recommendations.
  • Join a local art organization, preferably one close enough so that you can attend their regular meetings. Participate in their drawing and painting events. Follow links to over 80 watercolor societies.
  • Attend a painting workshop that provides instruction on an aspect of painting you haven't already done. For example, if you haven't tried collage in your art, attend a watercolor and collage workshop.
  • Add egg emulsion to your paints for an opaque texture. View Demers & 3rd for an example.
  • Weave two paintings together. See Floral Weave on this page.
  • Change your paints. If you're a watercolorist, hide the watercolors and open up some acrylics or oil pastels.
  • If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the small details in your paintings, loosen up your style with bigger brushes and longer handles. Resist the temptation to hold your brush tightly like a pencil.
  • Get a new subject. Too many floral paintings, but never tried a portrait? A change of topic in your art will provide both a challenge and great way to get unstuck.
  • Change your location. Pack up your paints and go to the park for some plein aire painting.
  • Develop a concept for a series of paintings.
  • Adjust your color choices. Spin the color wheel and try something new. If your work favors particular color schemes, for example analogous colors, make a switch to a different color scheme, such as triadic.
  •  

    For the first 4 ideas, visit the Inspiration page