Kick-starting your Painting when in a Block - Annie Monk
A painting 'block' happens to all of us a some time. Here are some techniques to over come it;
Prompts and Ideas for Inspiration:
- Observe and study art in magazines, books, catalogues and the internet.
- Visit exhibitions in private and public galleries as well as local art society shows.
- Walk and take a sketchbook to really look at your surroundings- draw, scribble and make notes - doesnt need to be perfect.
- Talk art with like minded people.
- Tap into your subconcious by doodling.
- Use music or poetry to prompt your imagination.
- Create a pinboard of photos, pictures, quotes.
- Use different media and tools - dribble inks, draw pastels, play with different colours and shapes, anything away from the norm - have fun and experiment.
- Start to paint anything you fancy at that moment. Even if not confident about an idea, make a stab at it - you may surprise yourself.
- Paint only to please yourself - if you paint to please others it can create a block.
- Onlyt paint subjects you are moved or stimulated by. Paint how you feel and from the heart - it will show.
- Meditation and yoga may help.
If all else fails, be patient and wait for the muse !
https://uk.pinterest.com/amysia/inspiration-painting/
Tips to help you Critique Paintings;
Lines - Do you need to add any ? Is there enough definition ?
Shapes - Are they varied and interesting ?
Tonal Value - Squint you eyes - is more contrast needed ?
Colours - Do they relate well to each other ? Is more vibrancy needed ? Would a dash of strong colour enhance the painting ?
Composition and Movement - Is your eye led around the painting ? Is there direction ? Where is the emphasis ?Is it too busy, not allowing space to 'rest' the eye?
Unity -Do the elements work in harmony ? Or look as though painted by seveal people ?
Pattern - Would fewer elements or more elements improve the painting ?
Balance - Is there equilibrium ?
