Embracing the Journey of Artistic Growth: A Landscape Painting Experience

radiant underpainting for a landscape

Creating art can be a fulfilling yet challenging journey. I recently embarked on a new landscape painting project, focusing on clouds using oil paint. I learned to play around with warm and cool colors. A landscape is like a clamshell; the top and bottom parts should feel closer to the viewer while the middle seems further away. Warm colors make objects appear nearer, and cool colors push them back.

The Struggles of Mixing Colors

As I began to paint the clouds, I noticed that my strokes turned into a messy canvas. The smoothness I envisioned simply wasn't there. I experimented with various colors—adding a hint of purple, some blues, pinks, oranges, and more white—but nothing worked.

subtractive glazing

After a few more attempts, I sighed and said, "No, this is not what I wanted." Frustrated, I decided to step away from the canvas for the day. Oil paint needs time to dry before layering again, so I cleaned my brushes and palette. Everything was put back in its place; I prefer things neat and organized.

Taking Time Away

The easel with my landscape canvas remained in my living room. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. Every time I glanced at that unfinished painting, I felt disappointed. The clouds still seemed off to me, and I questioned my abilities as an artist.

Witnessing a painting linger in such a state can be disheartening. One day, a friend came over. He noticed the painting and I immediately began explaining its unfinished state, almost defensively, without him asking. My inner critic was loud and relentless.

Facing My Creative Prowess

After my friend left, I stared at the painting once more. It had been months, and yet, it remained untouched. I had hit a stopping point that felt insurmountable. I let frustration take control.

But a few days later, I decided to return to my painting materials. I grabbed my artist's apron—essential for protecting my clothes. I laid out the colors I needed on my palette, preparing to face my canvas again. This time, I focused on clearing my mind, taking a deep breath, and going with the flow. I embraced the unpredictability of the painting process, hoping to allow it to unfold naturally.

Visualizing the Clouds

As I mixed the colors, I thought about the clouds that float above the mountains. I envisioned their soft, delicate appearance, reminiscent of cotton. With each brushstroke, I took my time, mindfully applying color temperatures to enhance depth.

Once again, I stepped back and looked at the canvas. This time, I was astonished. I gasped, "I love it!" The clouds looked smooth, the colors harmonized beautifully, and I could see depth emerging from the layers.

landscape no.1

A smile spread across my face as I realized I had finally completed a landscape painting. It took months to revisit my work, but the experience taught me much about patience and resilience.

Sharing the Accomplishment

I shared a photo of my completed painting with coworkers. To my surprise, one of them commented positively on the clouds. It felt satisfying to know that my hard work and effort were recognized, especially in an area I had struggled with initially. I put so much effort into making those clouds look beautiful, and hearing someone appreciate that part was bewildering.

Trusting the Process

That experience made me reflect on my artistic journey. I realized that I needed to trust the process more. Art may not result in a perfect outcome on the first attempt, but persistence is key. Every step I take brings me closer to my goals—whether in art or any other area of life.

Instead of succumbing to frustration, I can see these moments as opportunities to improve. They inspire me to strive for a better version of myself. Whenever I face challenges, I acknowledge my efforts and remind myself that perfection is unnecessary. The important thing is to keep showing up and practicing.

Encouragement for Fellow Creatives

If you're feeling frustrated with the results of something you're working on, remember: you’re not alone. Keep putting in the effort, even when it feels daunting. Every act can lead to something beautiful.

In the world of art, as in life, progress is everything. Embrace the journey, celebrate your steps, and foster the courage to keep creating.