Know When to Hold 'Em

"Prehistoric Afternoon" 12x12", stretched canvas

When I was just starting to experiment with the world of mixed media and art supplies, I allowed the internet to consume me. I spent hours looking at art, bookmarking things, and trying to replicate what I saw as a way to learn how to use my paint. There were many times when I grew frustrated with my painted results... and many times I quit art.. for a little while anyway.

After some time passed, It dawned on me one day.. that there were/are so many people making art like I wanted to make at the time... so many blogs, photos, etc... that there had to be an easier way to accomplish the things I wanted to try.. easier than say pulling my hair out late every night. I quickly steered away from following vague, magazine step-by-step tutorials so precisely.. to thinking that I can achieve the same "look" in my own way. Has this happened to you? How many times have you stopped mid "recipe" to grab a coupon, run out and purchase something listed on a magazine supply list... only to find out that you have something on hand already that may perform the same task? Sing it with me in your best "Frozen" song voice..... "Let it goooooo."  

The feeling is amazing. It's like giving yourself permission to be yourself... let me tell you something.. once you decide you want to take off the training wheels, your art will change.. you can feel your way around a painting more. You can discover TRUTH in your own art and find your own way of doing things..

So back to those tutorials... know when to hold them at bay... know when to try them once, and then to adapt them to your own needs. Know when to discount everything they say. Yes..I said it. Know when to make them your own.