Between project blues

[Bob Botha]

I always seem to get in the doldrums between painting projects, desparetely wanting something to paint, yet having no inclination to paint "just for the fun of it" or for practice purposes alone.If I have a commission, or when something really inspires me, I'll attack it with gusto and enjoy every minute of the roller coaster ride until it's completed. I just don't know how to get motivated enough to paint for the sake of painting alone. The feeling of guilt I get from letting precious practicing time slip by does nothing to help! Any ideas on how one stirs up enthusiasm in this situation?

[Chris Saper]

Hi Bob,

I have a few ideas

First, paint for your porfolio. Seek out subjects not yet represented (eg, ages, gender, ethnicity, doubles, triples, whatever) and paint them in the way you would like to paint .That may or may not be consistent with what wil sell. Include both, if you feel they are different.

Second, start a folder of techniques you'd like to try and portraits you wish you had painted.Try them.

Third, go to every open studio group you can, or start one, even if you are the only artist.

I guess I could fill up about ten years with that stuff - good luck

[Bob Botha]

Chris, thank you so much for taking the time to reply and the good advice, especially regarding attending open studios. I haven't worked alongside other artists in a life painting studio since my college days (a long, long time ago!) Also, the fact that models are provided, will solve part of the problem I'm now facing. I will certainly follow up on this suggestion and, hopefully post some results here in the not too distant future!