Many artists experience what is known as the ugly stage…
the time during the painting process
where you think your painting is a hot mess
and you are ready to toss it
The ugly stage usually occurs when you’re well into the painting,
It occurs after you’ve established the composition
It occurs once you begin to refine it,
and begin the finishing process…
the photo below is “the ugly stage” of this painting
when I began to doubt the outcome,
and how I could possibly keep it
from looking like a Kindergarten creation
but instead of giving up,
it won’t hurt to try and fix it
since you feel like it’s a lost cause anyway…
so keep going!!
I added more small leaves and grasses,
more layers of color to some of the flowers and petals
and gave the flowers dignity and definition
with a waterproof .01 micron pen…
Much better!
“Flower Dance” 9″ x 12″ watercolor on 140 lb. cold press watercolor paper
Another tip that I feel is really important is: walk away…
when you get to the point that you are feeling rushed,
or are making bad decisions, stop!
Put the painting aside and go do something else~
leave it alone for a day or two…
you will be amazed when you return with fresh eyes,
and are able to see what it needs,
sometimes it’s just a matter of a stroke here and there,
or a dash of color or one more highlight…
So Be Fearless and never give up!
I will be joining these fabulous parties and blogs:
Sundays on Silverado Love Your Creativity Over the Moon
Between Naps on the Porch, Celebrate Your Story,
All About Home/ Common Ground Follow the Yellow Brick Home
Tasty Tuesday Oh My Heartsie Girl Turn About Tuesday
Full Plate Thursday Centerpiece Wednesday Creatively Crafty