Artists: Improvise, Adapt and Overcome

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Artists: Improvise, Adapt and Overcome

If you know any Marines, you may have heard them talk about “Improvise, Adapt and Overcome.” This is a common thread in Marine training that helps them to secure what they need during the chaos of combat.

While I am not trying to say that artists are in the same league as those who dutifully serve our wonderful country, there are things artists can learn and use from Marine training.

Improvise. Artists are some of the best I know at improvising using what they have. I have seen ingenious gadgets that artists have come up with when they couldn’t afford or properly secure a specific piece of equipment. For years I used a home made rig (using an easel and some wood) to film my overhead shots for video lessons. I did this because I could not find a good price on a camera boom stand. I used my rig for years before I could find a stand I thought was a reasonable price. And of course, improvisation forms the basis for many artists approach to painting, including mine.

Adapt. Artists typically adapt like no other group I know. In many cities artist’s studios occupy areas of cities where rent is affordable. Often these areas become more gentrified with more expensive housing, bars, restaurants, and heaven forbid yoga studios (once the yoga studios and coffee shops move in, it’s time to move). The artists adapt by finding other affordable areas and moving their studios out of the areas where rent is on the increase.

Speaking of studios, I know many artists who don’t have a dedicated studio space. I know folks who paint on kitchen islands, dining rooms, a corner of a bedroom, or a piece of a closet. We adapt to those surroundings, doing our best to crank out work in less than ideal circumstances.

We often have to adapt to the use of certain materials. I’ve talked to lots of artists and students who can’t afford the best materials. They use a few inexpensive brushes, student grade paint and less than ideal painting surfaces because of budget restrictions. They adapt and make it work.

Overcome. There are lots of artists who have to overcome physical, and sometimes mental challenges to be able to make their art. I have a physical issue with my painting hand that often makes it difficult for me to grip a paintbrush. I know many folks who have a hard time standing or who have issues with their eyesight, those who are color blind. These folks all overcome because making art is more important than their physical or mental discomfort.

If you’re interested in learning more about Using a Color Wheel, I have a new online “Short Course” that will provide lots of great information for you. There is a brief description below in this email.

If you'd like to learn about abstract painting and making your own authentic work, then please join me for a painting workshop: (You can view a list of workshops HERE)

2022 Workshops

As always, thanks for your support!

David

Simple Color System Colorwheel

If you have seen my videos on YouTube or taken one of my workshops, you have seen me use my Simple Color System Colorwheel. My Simple Color System is easy to use and assures that the color in your paintings will be harmonious. Proudly made in North Carolina.

You can purchase the Colorwheel HERE.

I Have a NEW Online “Short Course”:

Using the Color Wheel. Has anyone (even an art instructor) ever asked you to purchase a color wheel, or told you need a color wheel, but then never taught you how to use it? In this course I’ll show you exactly how to use it and provide you with a system to implement all the color combinations in your work. Includes 13 video tutorials. $47.

Click Here to Purchase

Other Online Workshops

ALL ABOUT COLOR is a great online course that will show you a straightforward, no nonsense, clear and easily understandable approach to using harmonious color in your paintings. Now On Sale for $50 Off!

Click Here to Learn More



Abstract Painting Academy is an online workshop experience specifically designed to teach you how to paint Abstract Paintings (like only you can!), Loosen Up your painting style, and use Design Fundamentals to give your paintings Dynamic Visual Impact. You get David’s personal attention and feedback on all of your work during the course. Now On Sale for $100 Off!
Click Here to Find Out More

The Painting Insider (formerly Abstract Painting Insider) now has a new format and is not abstract painting specific. Weekly lessons provide an abundance of information to painters at any level. I have poured information about everything I have learned about painting over the last 30 years into one course!

Click Here to Find Out More