We as artists always hit roadblocks when it comes to our work. But there’s always a way to solve these problems once we get past the initial block. Artists are problem solvers, we learn from making mistakes and doing the work. Recently, I decided to try painting on hard boards with acrylic inks and regular acrylics. I drew a newer version of an ink drawing I did back in 2017 and decided that was going to be the first drawing to experiment on with the board.
2017 Ink Illustration
2022 Dragoon Drawing
First lesson learned: I should’ve started with something smaller and simpler when trying out new art materials.
When experimenting with new materials, starting with a simpler subject like a still life on a smaller scale can give me a better idea of how the materials work together. Doing this would’ve given me more time to enjoy the process rather than being frustrated with it.
Digital value study and mock up for traditional painting
Second: It’s OK to be frustrated with your painting or drawing. It’s OK to not like what you are working on. Step back, walk away, and breathe.
We are human, it happens. It’s up to the artists whether they want to keep going or learn from the failure and apply what was learned to something new. Throughout this painting process, I did not like where my painting was going. Even with the value studies I have done, it didn’t translate well onto the actual painting. So, I took a step back and sketched in my sketchbook for a while. I also watched videos on acrylic and acrylic ink techniques, took a trip to Washington, DC, and most importantly, rested. All in two weeks’ time. Yup, I let that painting sit, by itself, for two weeks.
The painting I wasn’t happy about
Third: Taking a step back is very helpful in solving the problem that the painting or drawing is presenting.
When I got back to my art desk, I had to ask myself these questions:
What is this painting missing?
Is this the right composition?
What am I trying to convey?
What can I do to solve this problem?
I originally wanted to create more depth using atmospheric elements in the painting but didn’t know how to accomplish it. So, I looked to an Illustrator via Youtube and watched their techniques on how to handle acrylic mediums. Turns out, I’ve brought some cheap makeup brushes, put a light application onto the brush and I started to get the effect I wanted. I changed up some colors that didn’t sit right with me (the hair mainly) and pushed the background of the painting fully back to give the characters in the front some focus.
Make-up brushes creates wonderful atmospheric effects…who knew?
As I was working on solving this issue that I had with my painting, I started to enjoy the process again and took a breath. I kept telling myself a small mantra I’ve learned through my ongoing journey with my mental health: It’s OK. Everything will be OK.
2022 Dragoon - The painting I am happy with!
I’ve learned that it’s OK to step back from a project you’re working on and give yourself a break. Your mind and artwork will thank you for it.
Thanks for reading and happy painting!