Sunday, July 19, 2009

Loosen up your painting style! What are you afraid of?

Loosen Up
From my experience , it seem that 3 out of 4 artist would say,"I would really like to loosen up my style." If you fall in that boat, I would like to know what you are afraid. I am not suggesting that everyone should change their style. But, I think there are many of you who would like to, but fear is holding you back.
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Reject Criticism
I think there is truth in the adage of the tortured artist. Everyone has an opinion about your work. When you put your work before the public, you are really asking the question, " Do, you like my work". Some will actually say they do or they don't. Some will infer it with a cursory glance, or just by not buying it.
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Don't People Please
There are going to be more people who don't like your work, than do. This is true for any artist. Picasso has no shortage of people who hate his work. You need to practice your best duck waddle a let the insecurities and criticism , slide off your back.
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Go your Own Way
Don't let the fear of losing sales stop you from making a change. If you come up with a different style, you can sell it in a different market . So it doesn't interfere with the customer base that you already have. If it's in your heart to do it, you should. If you don't, you will be in an eternal struggle, trying to please those who can't be pleased and unhappy because you aren't painting what you would really like to be painting.
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It's a Win, Win
What better time to do this than in a market that is down. In order to loosen up, you are going to have to get out of your comfort zone and try some new things. Even if you don't come up with an entirely different style, you will learn in the process. You will take what you have learned, and it will add a new dimension to your work.
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Since when, is more knowledge a bad thing?


3 comments:

  1. An excellent post, Derek. All are words to live by as an artist.

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  2. Great advice, and I agree. Paint what is in your heart, not to please the masses. That is what makes you truly happy (even if you are poor!). True happiness is a richness that no money can buy.

    Aloha, Lisabongzee

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  3. I am just starting to put my art online. I have never done shows, etc. although my mother is an artist and does very well. I think I was afraid of criticism but as I have aged (alot) I really think I can handle it. Now I just have to conquer my shyness.

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