Inspiration vs. Showing Up Everyday

Inspiration vs. Showing Up Everyday

The most common question asked of any artist is: What is your inspiration? I believe that lots of people use this as an icebreaker to begin a conversation about the art. My typical answer to this question is that I am inspired by many things around me: the landscape, nature, the seasons, the ocean, the energy of a big city and color. Although I am inspired many by things, I DO NOT RELY ON INSPIRATION to paint. I believe that the myth of artist's requiring inspiration has come from the media and those that don't paint.

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The Un-Intended Life of a Professional Artist

The Un-Intended Life of a Professional Artist

I never intended to become a professional artist; I never intended to travel the country teaching others how to create abstract paintings in a loose, free manner; I never intended to be an abstract painter; I never intended to write a book or a blog; I never intended to be an expert in my field contacted by people all over the world for advice on painting. I am always amazed at what has happened in my life, regardless of what my intentions may have been. For those that may not know, just a few years ago I was an architect and a watercolor painter painting mostly landscapes.

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Studio Materials: Brushes That I Use

Studio Materials: Brushes That I Use

The second most popular question I receive from students is, "What type of brushes do you use?" So, this post is all about the brushes. For those new to acrylic painting, there are three major bristle materials that brushes are constructed with: nylon, natural and a blend of natural and nylon. I use mostly brushes with natural bristles, but I do use a few nylon bristle brushes.

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