Andrew in my moleskine
I’m taking a break from the grizzly bear painting for a few weeks. I need to not look at it for awhile, so I can see it with fresh eyes. Often putting a painting away for a while, and working on other things, allows me to get some distance from it and make better decisions once I go back. Things seem clearer, mistakes seem more obvious, and sometimes I think that the problems just work themselves out in my subconscious when I just give them some time. The worst thing I’ve ever done to any painting is to keep on working when I’m beyond frustrated with it, and believe me, every painting goes through that stage! I’ve ruined a few paintings with my stubbornness and my dogged determination to finish at all costs. So not good!
Going back to the plain old pencil, my first love, is like visiting an old friend. No surprises, just comfort. Knowing exactly what to expect…it’s nice, and safe. I can work for hours, and my mind wanders and time disappears. It’s easier for me than color, no huge decisions to make, nothing that will ruin the picture that can’t be fixed without an eraser.
