ARTIST’S HINTS AND TIPS
• Collect photographs and ideas for future works so you are ready to go when the creative urge strikes.
• Ensure you paint in good light. Natural light is the best.
• When using acrylics, if the paint is drying too quickly to finish off the area you are working on, lightly spray the area with water. Water sprayed over paint on the work can also create interesting effects, particularly for background areas.
• You can correct mistakes by using a damp cloth to remove paint, even if it has dried a little. Otherwise just over paint the area you want to correct.
• Be cautious when using very dark colours as your work can become ‘muddied’. If possible use very dark colours in small amounts. Replace your water and brushes frequently and thoroughly clean your brushes well before using new colours. Straight black can appear harsh so soften with Paynes Grey or Burnt Umber.
• Use warm water to thoroughly clean your brushes and to bring them back to their original shape.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment in order to achieve different effects, or if the painting isn’t going according to plan. You might be pleasantly surprised by the results. Experiment using different media, different papers and canvases, different brushes or even rollers and palette knives.
• Seek and consider feedback on your work. An independent observer may see an obvious flaw you may have missed or a strong point that could be further developed.
• If you get to a stage where you are ‘stuck’ with a painting, put it away for a while, then come back to it with a fresh eyes and renewed outlook and approach.
• Read art books and magazines to discover new techniques. Public libraries are free and stock a great range of ‘how to’ art books.
• If you are stretched for time to paint, work on smaller works as these take a lot less time to complete.
• Practice as often as you can in order to improve.
• Enter your work in art shows. Recognition through commendations and sales can eliminate self doubt and give you renewed motivation.