Are You a Slow or Fast Painter?
There is no right or wrong for being a fast or slow painter. I know many amazing artists who are slower painters than others. I am just trying to clarify a few things with this if you struggle with this topic. Generally, people who are more on the slow side think it’s wrong. This is not true! But, when you are painting outdoors, time does matter in the sense that light is changing and fleeting. You usually only have 1.5 to 2 hours to paint a painting outside. If you are working a large painting, it could take several days and sessions.
“ Speed is not necessarily better, but in the context of working from life, you do need to be slightly quicker. The sun’s position is changing all of the time and it doesn’t wait for you. ”
When I was attending the American Academy of Art, we sat together at tables and I remember glancing over at another student’s work that was already done. I was wondering if I was doing something incorrectly by not being done yet. But, at the time, they were just a little more advanced than me. As the years went by, I got faster and faster because I was practicing all the time. It does matter how often you paint because you will be struggling in front of the canvas if you are not consistently practicing enough. You have to ask yourself if you are painting enough. The more the better. That is where you will get more speed.
Speed is not necessarily better, but in the context of working from life, you do need to be slightly quicker. This is because the sun’s position is changing all of the time and it doesn’t wait for you. Painting outdoors or from natural light is a good way to practice because you are put on a timer. It is difficult in the beginning, but with time and work, I guarantee you will see massive improvement. Time plus work equals improvement and a quicker speed. Most painters I know have sped up by painting from life. The decisions you are making are also more accurate.
“With time and practice, you can get those closer [your heart and skill level] together so your idea can be brought to the canvas more successfully. ”
Don’t be bothered by being a slower painter. Maybe at this time of your growth, you are at the right place time-wise. Don’t worry about it too much and also, don’t get into too big of paintings from the start. I see painters make this mistake often. Their heart is there, but their skill level is not. Don’t make this mistake as a beginning painter. I always recommend working smaller at first, nothing bigger than 11 x 14 or around there. Do not get into too complex of scenes. Again, what the heart wants vs. your skill level may be off in the beginning of your journey. But, with time and practice, you can get those closer together so your idea can be brought to the canvas more successfully. Just be sure to practice time and time again with natural light, whether outdoors or in the studio.
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