Painting in the Studio

My two current favorite mediums to work in are watercolor and oils. I was taught in college the process of watercolors and to be honest, I hated it at first. It has properties that lend itself to kind of having a mind of its own. Now, I love it! It is my go-to for a quick sketch and it is great for traveling since it dries almost instantly. I have been playing around with gouache as well…more on that another day, but it might become another favorite.

As for Oils, I was never formally taught, so my process is anything but traditional. I’ll share a quick rundown of the steps: first, I prepare the cradled wood panel by sanding it, then I attach hardware for hanging (this allows me to hang it while drying since it takes weeks to dry), next I tape the edges to keep them clean while painting, then I draw my sketch with pencil, then apply a clear gesso that is tinted with a bright acrylic color, now it is ready to apply oil paint! I am usually working on 10-15 paintings at a time because it takes so long to dry. I also try not to waste paint, so if I have blues mixed on my pallet, I will try to use that blue in other paintings where I have planned to use that color. 

Painting, in any form, has become such an important part of my life. I have recognized when I am not painting regularly, I feel and empty void inside. Creating is part of my soul and I am so grateful that I have finally carved out time and space in my life for it.

What is something that fills your soul?

How are you going to make time for it in your life?