Art and Fear (or is it procrastinatio...

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Author Message Grizrev Senior Member Username: Grizrev Post Number: 219 Registered: 8-2006 Posted on Monday, April 16, 2007 - 10:05 am:    While I have noticed that most of the longer threads have to do with the mechanics of painting, this especially long thread explores what is probably a "spiritual issue" in the broadest sense (see the thread "Religion and Art II")-- the question, not, as we might expect, "why do we paint?" but "why do we NOT paint?" Is this a thread that needs to be restarted as a sequel? How about some possible topics: "Why Do We Paint or Fail to Paint?" "Listening, or Not Listening, To Our Spiritual Muse" "The Spiritual Ingredients in Our Painting" "The Motivations and Purposes of Our Painting." If something like this is more appealing than "Religion and Art II" to those who are "put off" by organized religion, a revival of this thread with a new topic might be a way to get around a consideration of how religion and art relate or have related historically, and simply contemplate the more subjective spiritual dimensions of painting(s). What is it that we "see" in a subject that captivates us, that makes us want to spend time in an effort to express and share that experience or insight or perspective with other people by means of creating an interpretive painting? What intangible (spiritual? subjective? psychological?) force drives us? Eric Unregistered guest Posted on Sunday, November 5, 2006 - 6:27 pm:    In baseball, a .300 hitter fails seven out of ten times. (For non-baseball fans a .300 hitter is pretty good.) Bill Unregistered guest Posted on Sunday, November 5, 2006 - 8:24 am:    I love this quote by Micheal Jordon posted immediately below. It sums up the life of a watercolorist. irma Posted on Tuesday, April 2, 2002 - 12:56 pm:    I just read this in a book called "The Procrastinator's Handbook" by Rita Emmett. A Michael Jordan quote on a poster,"I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I've been trusted to make the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. So that is why I succeed." I'm now off to do some long awaited painting. Hope, like me, this quote helps those with fear of failing. irma Posted on Tuesday, April 2, 2002 - 12:53 pm:    I just read this in a book called "The Procrastinator's Handbook" by Rita Emmett. A Michael Jordan quote on a poster,"I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I've been trusted to make the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. So that is why I succeed." I'm now off to do some long awaited painting. Hope, like me, this quote helps those with fear of failing. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Monday, October 29, 2001 - 9:43 am:    Hi Mike, Welcome back and God Bless. -Carrie Mike King Posted on Sunday, October 28, 2001 - 11:05 pm:    I see nobody's posted on this topic in quite a while, but this is where I used to chat so I figured I'd post here. Just wanted to stop and say hello to Geeky and Mermaid, Carrie, Mr. Mullins and all you guys who were so helpful to me around this time last year as I prepared to try my hand at oil painting. I hope everyone is well. Much has happened in the world since I chatted with y'all. I'm not painting presently as I'm involved with playing in a band and working very hard at learning how to play keyboard. (Blues) But my love for art is still very much alive, and if God grants me the time I'll definately go back to it. In these uncertain times I take a lot of joy in looking at a piece of art, something beautiful or thought provoking (sp?) that some individual has poured his heart and soul into. There is order in art. The creation of art requires integrity. And these qualities are brought to bear and imparted on the observer of a piece of artwork. While looking at something beautiful one is granted a brief respite from the troubles of the world. Anyway, enough philosophy, I just wanted to say hello, and wish you all the best! Keep painting! It is worthwhile! God bless you! God bless America! Keep praying! Geeky2 Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2001 - 12:35 pm:    Maxi, yes, go for it. Some of us will always let a little self-doubt creep in. Depends on the way we were raised, etc. But that also makes survivors of us, so that we can overcome most negative things in life. My favorite thing to say these days to myself or anyone else is "Get over it!" Jean maxi Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2001 - 12:25 pm:    Jean(Geeky2) You sound like a kindred spirit. One thing I've learned in later life is that we shouldn't let past failures, discouragements, feelings, low self-image or anything stand in the way of realizing what we are today or what we want to become tomorrow. If God gave us a gift, whatever it may be; creativity in art, music, or whatever, and we haven't pursued it in the past, we need to start today and go forward. From today is all the time we have. I loved to play the guitar and sing when I was young, but got discouraged early by someone close to me and never picked it up again for years. Now I see people who can play beautifully and think, "I have as much talent as they do", but just didn't have the self confidence to pursue, and develop it. I guess I still get discouraged easily, but I'm working on it. Whatever time I have left in this life, I intend to pursue the things which I love doing and develop the talents that I have for the glory of He who gave me the talent in the fierst place. My, this is getting deep, but I would encourage anyone who has a talent, (love, passion) for anything as long is it's legal and moral, GO FOR IT! Maxi Geeky2 Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2001 - 5:34 pm:    Maxi, I agree completely. I can be very survivalistic (if that is a word) in most things that are important or necessary. However, I'm not always active or very competitive, in arts and crafts. Can't leave it alone, though. As a child in the late 40's and 50's, I got in trouble with the teacher for drawing portraits or anything in class. I would stand at the door and peep in at the kids who could afford to take art lessons, never even dreaming that it was ever meant for me. There never was any encouragement for writing or painting at home or at school. Now I'm happy if I can just enjoy it, and not be pressured about it. Anyone remember the Art School ads--if you drew the subject, and sent it in, maybe you could take lessons by mail? I drew the subject easily, sent it in, and got a letter saying they were sorry, no one under the age of 14, I think, could do this. Really shot me down. I wonder how many young, poor people they discouraged forever, from art back then. Now I see those same type ads on TV. Jean maxi Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2001 - 5:05 pm:    As one who has always had trouble 'following through' with some things, I guess I've never thought about it as fear, but maybe it is fear,'fear of failure', or with me maybe (perish the thought) plain laziness. Important things though, like my relationship with God, my marriage, home, children there was not question whether I would follow through. No way was I ever going to give up and I never feared failure in these areas. Maybe it comes down to priorities, or what's most important. I can do many things, but painting is the one 'crafty' thing which I have never grown tired of. I've kept it on the back burner sometimes, but never wanted to give it up comletely. Yes, there are things I don't finish and some things I take years to finish. I have one of those now which has been in progress about 4 yrs. Time to finish it, huh? I don't believe we should beat outselves up about what we didn't do today, but reach for tomorrow and strive to use the dicipline it takes to finish what we start. You know, "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can...I think I can....I know I can" I know I can, and so can you. Maxi feather Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2001 - 12:18 pm:    I just ran across this "word of wisdom" and I'm just as guilty as 99% of the rest of the world at listening to my fear instead of listening to my spirit. Geeky2 Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2001 - 12:08 pm:    feather, we seem to be the only ones on right now. I know I sure have to practice, and need to practice more! I've been just practicing on cards, or in sketch books, but I need to go back to painting larger, and getting all the basics down really well. I want to try too many things! Jean feather Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2001 - 11:58 am:    A primary reason people don't do new things is because they are fearful they won't do them perfectly the first time. This is completely irrational and impractical, yet it's how may people run their lives. The test of committement is action. If we say "I commit to being a great dancer", and then we don't practice, that's not commitment, that's just talk. (I think Dr. Phil said this) Maxi Posted on Monday, June 25, 2001 - 9:26 pm:    Kathy, Thanks a lot. Thanks for the ideas, now it's decisions; canvas or door skins both sounds like they would work! Someone else suggested to do it on canvas, then hang it from a rod at the top like a wall hanging. That would work also. I am thinking on the idea of doing a small painting first, maybe even a w/c to get the composition, contrast, etc. right. My grand daughter is 'artsy' and is planning to help. Whatever comes out will be experience and fun and a time to remember. We have already had fun taking reference pictures of her and her horse, not to mention riding the 4-wheeler w/ the 9 yr. old grandson through the woods for his reference pictures. Maybe we'll post a picture if it's a success. Thank you! Life is good! Maxi Kukana Posted on Monday, June 25, 2001 - 11:36 am:    What a cool idea for the Nauvoo Temple, Wallpapering with the canvas. Seems like a good idea for a mutitide of reasons. Cathy Posted on Monday, June 25, 2001 - 10:40 am:    Maxi, here's an idea for your mural... Recently our watercolor society had a guest artist speak named Gary Smith. He sell alot of his work back east, and has an agent that takes care of EVERYTHING, all he has to do is paint... he doesn't have to pay for framing, shipping, they pick it up from him, they provide whatever material he needs... sounds ideal, huh. Anyway he has been commissioned to paint a mural for one of the rooms in the Navoo Temple in Illinois for the LDS church (Mormon). He said that what they are doing is constructing large canvas the exact size of the walls, painting them and then when dry ( he works in oils) rolling them up, shipping them to Navoo and putting it up like wallpaper!!! Isn't that amazing? Another time we had a lady that does murals for childrens rooms etc. and she does a small painting first and then enlarges it with a projector and traces directly on the wall she is painting. Sometimes she just enlarges single figures that have a lot of detail. Hope that gives you some ideas! piper Posted on Monday, June 25, 2001 - 10:14 am:    Door skins are like super thin sheets of plywood....maybe a fourth inch thick. Yes, the lumberyard should either have them or know where you can get them. They are used to face cabinets, doors, etc. and often craftspeople who do scrollsaw filligree work use them. Good luck. maxi Posted on Monday, June 25, 2001 - 6:20 am:    Piper, Thanks for the idea, but what are door skins? I've never heard of them. Would I just ask at the lumber yard? It sounds like that is about what I'm looking for. Maybe, I'll start before the corn's in. :) piper Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2001 - 9:16 pm:    Maxi, welcome to the group. And patinsc, wouldn't the plural be anonymice? (grin) Maxi, check out using door skins for the mural. They weigh next to nothing. Because they are so thin I would coat both sides with varnish before beginning the painting to prevent warping. I would use acrylics. I think there is an acrylic based house paint available. You could use the bottles of liquid acrylic to tint a basic white to get your various hues. Check it out anyway. And happy painting....soon's the corn is in that is. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2001 - 8:39 pm:    Hi Roxanne, Thank you for the comment. I have spent the day drawing my husband's nose and eyes. Hmmmm. Where is the glamour here? -Best wishes, carrie Roxanne Steed Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2001 - 2:55 pm:    Hi Carrie; I loved that puppy & blossoms! and am enjoying this discussion board - reading Maxi, Jean,& others comments is like having someone read my mind...and what a relief! I'm so glad I've found it, it's like having a visit with artist friends without having to drive all over the county (ours is a huge one) to meet up with them! Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, June 23, 2001 - 7:32 pm:    I agree with you, fear is not the problem, except fear I'll mess up yet another pretty good start. Often I don't really know what to do next or I do too much. I'm pretty good at procrastination, though, especially when it comes to this board. maxi Posted on Saturday, June 23, 2001 - 11:52 am:    This is a wonderful board. Art & Fear,(Or is it Procrastination), sure has moved into a lot of different subjects. One thought I have had recently about procrastination, is that it may be really a form of lazyness or lack of self discipline, putting things off because we don't want to do it right now. I'm one of the worst, only sometimes my procrastination takes the form or painting when I should be doing something else! Then sometimes it's not fear that keeps me from finishing a painting, it's just plain not knowing what elst to do next. It's encouraging to know that more experienced artists get faced with the same things. maxi Posted on Saturday, June 23, 2001 - 11:36 am:    I posted questions on the Interior Design & Murals board, but want to get the feed back from this one. I'm getting ready to attempt a couple of murals for my grandchildren's rooms and have gleaned a lot of info. from the different forms on this subject. I have the thought that perhaps it would be easier to do the actual painting at my house on a movable support, maybe a 4X8 sheet or sheetrock or some other material, maybe something lighter in weight? The rooms are small and the idea is to create depth with a mural. The 4 X 8 turned horizontally would create a window effect and not go all the way to the floor. Also, another question; What about building a 'easel' to support my work in prograss, perhaps on wheels? Does anyone have any ideas, suggestions or have you done anything like this? Geeky2 Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2001 - 10:35 pm:    Wow Carrie! You do live in a great area. By the way, thanks for the note in your book. I've just skimmed through it, for now. Lots of information there!! Hi patinsc: Looking for inspiration now, myself. Jean patinsc Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2001 - 10:41 pm:    Carrie: Checked out the web site. Beautiful dogs and loved your work. How lucky you are to live on so many acres. Bet you have inspiration everywhere. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2001 - 7:54 pm:    Hi Oma, How wonderful you have taken in some of our "lost souls". We at one time had the largest Pyr kennel in the west--mom was the President of the Great Pyrenees Club of America, on the standard revision committee, and a grand poobah (giggle) If you ever find Paul Strang's book on the Great Pyrenees book, my our kennel and I am in there. We have been owned by these wonderful giants since about 1959. We kept our Pyrs as strong working dogs and showed them as well. I have painted them since I could hold a brush. You MUST check out the web site: http://www.ourdogbleu.com/ All Pyr related stuff. Some of my art work is there. Best wishes, woof, Carrie Oma Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2001 - 6:38 pm:    Carrie- Another Great Pyr. person or family! My husband and I have had them for several years now. Our first one was a "free to a good home" at a moving sale. Name Casey or KC- came with the nameand she was a sweetheart. Lost her a couple of years ago to mouth cancer. She was of the line or one of them that have been bred for showing in this country. The second was found roaming around the NM desert. Gypsy is from one of the European lines and has the original body build before people started messing around and inbreeding. She is as playful at 6 or7 as a pup and is a clown to boot. The 3rd was given to us by people moving across country. We didn't have Lily long - liver cancer this time but she was nice dog with a huge smile! We love the Pyr's! I have tried painting them (from pictures) but haven't had success yet. Loved your puppy! Kukana Posted on Monday, June 18, 2001 - 10:30 am:    LP, On my screen at the left is a catagory just below the "Discussion " called Documentation" Under that is "Formating" Just scroll down to "Image" and its all there. Just try it. Its fun. Like Jean said, we all made plenty of mistakes at first. No worries. Just play! And I'd LOVE to see yours and everyone elses work Geeky2 Posted on Monday, June 18, 2001 - 8:59 am:    LP: Did you read all of our Formatting for fun how-tos? Don't worry about messing up in that area to try it. We all have got several mess-ups on there. let me know if I can help. Jean Geeky2 Posted on Sunday, June 17, 2001 - 5:09 pm:    LP, go down to the Formatting for Fun, and read our messages about the pictures. We will help, if you need help. Jean LPMullins Posted on Sunday, June 17, 2001 - 4:46 pm:    How do you insert pictures in with the messages...is that something new? It's really neat! And a really neat way to share pics of your work with others here! Geeky2 Posted on Sunday, June 17, 2001 - 12:05 am:    Boy, did y'all see the "Impressionists" on Biography? And I trip over a computer cord and go into a decline. ...well, I did rebreak my toe.....They starved, were so depressed, felt that they weren't any good, went blind or nearly, had crippling arthritis, etc. (Of course, we probably won't get that much fuss made over us, either.) Jean Maxi Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2001 - 10:48 pm:    OK y'all, we'll call me 'Maxi' actually that's who I am. Thank you for the welcome and encouragement and apologies for sounding like I was into self pity. I'm really not! It's just good to know that the Lord isn't going to let me give up on a gift from Him; the gift of creativity, and to have the smell of terp in my house again and to stay up late working on a painting if I want or surfing the artist's discussion board :) or whatever. This morning was so beautiful and the hay field beside my house is ripe for cutting and i didn't have time paint it, but took several reference photos early while the dew was still wet. I do intend to paint every day or at least do something having to do with painting. Feather, patinsc, unyru, and carrie, thanks again for answering my post and the encouragement. I've had so much fun reading all the posts and articles in this cj's web page. Carrie, what a beautiful painting of the puppy and flowers! Later - Thanks again! Maxi - No longer 'Anonymous June 15' Feather Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2001 - 8:14 pm:    Anonymous: You can be anonymous #008 if you want. Or make up a carzy C.B. handle if you don't want to use your name. (You know... "10-4 good buddy...smokey at marker 36", and all that.) We just like to have some sort of vague identification of our new buddy that's all. PS: Carrie, I checked out your painting of the girl and the cat on the web site. You are one amazingly tallented gal! You GO girl! Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2001 - 8:02 pm:    Hi Chris, The pup is a Great Pyrenees--we have had a Pyr kennel since 1960 (my folks), needless to say, the first thing I ever painted were dogs and horses. I have two lab commissions right now. I'll see if I can find some photos of some of our dog art--I just shipped out 8 Bull Terrier paintings for a dog show. Two secrets to painting dogs in watercolor--take photos (they won't hold still!) and practice. -Woof Carrie chris Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2001 - 7:24 pm:    Carrie, I meant to also add that I love the puppy painting! We have a yellow lab that is 11 yrs. and will be getting a lab puppy in September from our son's dog. Wish I could paint them as well as you did. Chris chris Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2001 - 7:15 pm:    Welcome Anon of June 15th. This forum is so helpful and encouraging to artists on every level and we are so glad to have you join us! When you get down about your art, come here and get a lift! Keep those brushes wet and be brave. Chris Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2001 - 2:47 pm:    I agree with Pat-anonymous June 15th, please name yourself, even if it is not your real name. It's easy in the impersonal internet to write your thoughts, hopes and dreams and just a faceless person. Here we have names, thoughts, feelings and struggle with the same efforts of painting or drawing. Art for the day: -Carrie patinsc Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2001 - 11:54 am:    Sorry, I meant anonymous June 15th! patinsc Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2001 - 11:53 am:    Anonymous June 1: Welcome back to the wonderful world of creativity and art. And a great big welcome to this terrific board. You will find a great deal of encouragement and friendship here. We are glad you found us. Give yourself a username there are too many anonymouses? out there. We like to be a "tiny" bit personal. unyru Posted on Saturday, June 16, 2001 - 9:12 am:    Anonymous of June 15, 2001: Sounds as though you have set a goal now and are ready to get back to painting again,..that's good. It may help to set a simple goal; paint every day at a certain time, such as 9 until noon each morning. Then quit for that day! You'll find that you itch to go on for awhile,and that's o.k., just try not to break a rythm that you've set for yourself. I try not to make appointments for other things at the special painting hours I've set. Let the answering machine take messages, but of course you can hardly ignor a door bell. Also, read the art catalogs and peruse CJAS again. New things keep popping up in them just as great ideas pop up in this forum created by CJAS. If you find an item that really interests you, buy it and try it. What else is money useful for anyway. Of course, it isn't smart to be reckless with your budget! Sound like teach, preaching? O.K. I've been there,had those things happen, muddled along and am now mostly thru feeling like my world ended with incidents over which I had no control. You can do that, and I think from what I read in your post that you have. I want to hear what you have painted today! Tell me in a post, or upload it in the new web page for show and tell that CJAS has given to use. Gotta go paint now maybe upload a painting whether I am bursting with pride about accomplishment or not. JK Anonymous Posted on Friday, June 15, 2001 - 8:31 pm:    My, my, my, sounds like me! I've been 'dabbling' in painting for several years, probably about 20. I did some shows back then, held down a job and still had some teen-agers at home. I had fun and was at least supporting my habit with my sales. As I started selling more and doing some consignment work, and as I begin selling, I remember one thing that would really bug me. That was when I was working on something, my husband would come in and look at a painting I was working on and ask, "How much for that one?" I'm sure he meant to be encouraging, but I started to feel pressured to produce what others wanted rather than what I wanted to paint. Really killed my desire and my creativity. Can't do that! Must paint from the heart. Another thing was that I spent so much time being what others thought I should be that I didn't have any of me left over to pour into my art. Can't do that either!! To create, I must pour myself into it. So, I stopped painting almost altogether, only painting something once in awhile. Not good! My life has changed now. Family is gone, I've been a widow for over 2 years, a grandmother, living alone and not working outside my home, soooo, maybe I'll get back to painting. I love to work in oil and also watercolor and just recently found this discussion board when I logged on to CJ's website to order supplies. (I used to order from cj's a long time ago.) Already it feels so good to have support, and input from others similar to myself who can understand the need to create. Ordinary people don't, they want you to paint their family dwelling, a portrait of a family member who has died, or some other whim they have. To be truly creative, we must paint what we love, i.e. country landscapes, wildlife, rivers, and sometimes my grandchildren:) or whatever else inspires me. After losing my husband and other tramatic things happening that almost knocked my down, I felt that my passion for anything was gone. Now I'm finding that it has only been dormant. Again, I can feel excitement when I lay color on that canvas! Maybe it's time to be myself, whoever that is. Praise God for painting. Geeky2-VA Posted on Wednesday, April 4, 2001 - 8:08 am:    Hi, I have a whole bin of uh-ohs and too-bads. However, out of frustration, I too quickly coated some with gesso, and later wished I had waited. I'm learning (the hard way) to wait awhile before giving up on something that looks terrible. As you say, you learn something new, or see things differently later, and may be able to save a watercolor that misbehaved. (I keep hoping, anyhow.) Jean Oma Posted on Wednesday, April 4, 2001 - 7:28 am:    Laura36 - Too bad that more of us have not learned earlier in life to adopt your healthy attitude. Reminds me of Effie in Uncle Tom's Cabin. When asked who raised her she replied "Effie just growed!" So often we try too hard both for their sake and our own we try to do too much for others and neglect ourselves bringing on resentment of demands that we have generated. Took me a lot longer than a lifetime to learn the hard way. Maybe that is why I am being given what I think of as extra years to finally do my own thing. piper Posted on Tuesday, April 3, 2001 - 9:09 pm:    It's comforting to know I am not the only one with paintings frolicking with the dust bunnies under my bed. I just bought gesso so I could resurface and reuse the paper, but interestingly enough upon looking at them I realized that some of them are not as out of reach as I had thought. Maybe it is because I gain in experience each day, but now I think I can complete a few and repair a few more. Yes, there are still several that only a generoud slathering of gesso can cure, but at least I am heartened knowing I have been learning something. Laura36 Posted on Tuesday, April 3, 2001 - 7:50 am:    Children are the best teachers, by far. Children have no inhibitions. They are not worried about what this and that cost, what they have to do next, whether the TV is dusted off, and if the sink is full of dirty dishes; at some point the dish fairy comes and cleans them all. I watch my son a lot; he gets dirty just getting out of bed in the morning. Sometimes he goes to bed that way. What is the harm in that? Sheets can be washed, faces can be washed, and the washing can wait because life is too short to worry about the incidentals. I have several unfinished paintings, and I have one in particular that I have been working on for two years. It's a full sheet of a group of men chatting on the stairs of the dentist's office in a small town. I look at it nearly everyday. I don't feel that a painting is ever really done; when I "finish" one I look at it and realize I could have done this or that, represented something differently, and caused a whole new feeling or mood. Painting is a process, and I like what Picasso said: I spent my childhood learning to paint, and the rest of my life I have been trying to get back to painting like a child. If you make time for yourself, no matter what, you feel better about doing things for others too. I made a deal with my family; I told them that I need time to paint, and they needed to chip in on the chores around the house, the ones that were necessary. You find out very quickly the things that are truly necessary and what they care about. I'm already halfway through my life, and don't want the other half to be full of regrets for what I could have done. LPMullins Posted on Monday, April 2, 2001 - 7:04 am:    Painting through from beginning to end would be nice, but my paintings usually take an average of 20 hours or so to complete. I can't sit & paint for that long in one sitting. I have to take breaks when I start to get tired. Most of the time I don't have time to finish, so I have to get to a good "stopping point" & get back to it later. Then I find it's hard to get back into the same frame of mind I was in when I stopped. Sometimes I feel like I'm just not in the mood to paint even though I know I need to get the work done. A lot of times I feel like I'm just "bored" with the painting I'm working on & that keeps me from wanting to get back to it to finish it even though I know that the sooner I get back to it, the sooner I'll have it finished & can get on with something more enjoyable to work with. chris Posted on Monday, March 26, 2001 - 9:52 am:    So, you mess it up! Nothing is ever accomplished by doing nothing! If it is messed up, turn it and try again. But, decide why you only took the painting to that point. Is the composition the problem,or color or value? Once you figure out the problem, rush right in and do it!!! Get someone very experienced in watercolor to encourage you and show you how to finish. I have found that for artist, doing the "finishing" is difficult. It just needs a critical eye and the willingness to give up areas of the painting that don't work. Too many painters try to "save" an area that they love and and compromise the whole painting. If you haven't tried gouache to correct problems, you should explore that technique. I have actually reached the point that I love the challenge of fixing a painting or finishing an old one. Some fantastic work comes from taking no prisoners-be BOLD AND FRIGHTFULLY BRAVE!!! You can do it! Kukana Posted on Monday, March 26, 2001 - 9:50 am:    As I have taken several classes by folks like Frank Webb, Barbara Nechis, etc I find it very interesting that they start and finish their demo in less that 2 hours. They work straight throught and don't stop till its done. Maybe we should try that too as if we are teaaching a demo just to force ourselves to do it! Might be a good exercise.! Geeky2-VA Posted on Monday, March 26, 2001 - 9:29 am:    Hi Petty Cash: I also have stacks of half-done watercolors, but I'm not sure what my problem is. I have the time, but "know" I am going to mess it up if I go further, and sure enough, I do. I hope your new found idea helps you. I'm still searching! Jean PettyCash Posted on Monday, March 26, 2001 - 9:24 am:    Hello everyone. I read this topic several months ago because I too suffer from procrastination. Ever since then the question has been rolling around in my head and I have to get it out! First let me say that I have begun several new projects and they are all mid-painting at this point. Anyway, like I said, I have just been going over and over in my head about this topic. I think that has happened because I have my drafting table with all my art supplies right in my bedroom so I see it every night. I used to think that I had so many half finished paintings because I was so pleased with the way they were truing out I was afraid that next brushstroke was gong to ruin them, so I'd never start again once I stopped. But now I think that I'm not so concerned about ruining a good painting, and I'm not worried about trashing a beautiful piece of paper, or even having wasted my paints. It just always seems like I have something more 'important' to do. I was watching my son the other day doodle and making up his own little stories about Pokemon, and it dawned on me that he just didn't care if he was wasting his time doing this stuff. Note that 'wasting time' is my choice of words and not his! I realized that its just a matter of priorities. And that was why I would call it wasting time, when he was really enjoying himself. Thats what life is about. It seems that as adults we are so conditioned to be productive that we just do it naturally and don't take the time to give back to ourselves. Once again, the 7 year old has taught the old man. Go figure. What do you all think about this? Does this ring true for you as well? I still have a hard time making the time for myself, even with my newfound knowledge, but I'm working on it. Old habits die hard! apiper Posted on Tuesday, March 20, 2001 - 8:50 am:    Mike, Welcome home! Who cares how long it takes? Just doing something different must be revitalizing. Good for you! Geeky2-VA Posted on Sunday, March 18, 2001 - 11:05 pm:    Mike, Mike, Mike! Glad to see you again. I'm glad you aren't giving up your music. I also have several favorite hobbies. My drummer husband got me an electronic key board for Christmas. Think he is trying to tell me something? Good luck on your entry, and keeeeep on painting! Jean Mike King Posted on Sunday, March 18, 2001 - 10:04 pm:    Hello guys, Remember me? I was researching oil painting back in the fall, and finally started a canvas in Oct. The painting is complete, and I've entered it in a local juried exhibition. I should recieve my acceptance or rejection notice this week. Talk about procrastination! One canvas in almost 6 months! But I have some new ideas crawling in my head, and hope to start the process anew. I have complicated things however as I'm trying to teach myself to play blues piano. I'm realizing my passion for art and music are about equal, and I don't think I can discard one in favor of the other, (which I have often considered doing). I'll post again when I learn whether my painting has been accepted. Hi Geeky,Carrie,LP,Mermaid, and all you happy painters! Oma Posted on Saturday, March 17, 2001 - 5:50 pm:    S.Wiley-. Way to go! And Happy St. Patrick's Day to All! Kukana Posted on Friday, March 16, 2001 - 10:25 pm:    To procrastination: You all can surely tell by the number of posts I have made in the last two days that I am procrastinating my work. I have 4 pieces that I HAVE to have done by Monday Night and I DO NOT want to even start. I just am having such a block! I will do anything to keep from standing up and going over to my table and paint! Augh! S. Wiley Posted on Friday, March 16, 2001 - 3:47 pm:    I'm with Oma. I have totally immersed myself in my art making and find that the whole day passes by and I haven't done 'what I am suppose to do' - all those dreary chores. The truth is that I went into a terrible depression a few years ago and since I have emerged from it, I have a new motto: Honor who I am. And doing my art is honoring who I am. For too many years, I suppressed my art because of pressure from other people and now that I am 50 and just got in touch with what I was supposed to do all along, I don't care about what others think. Also, I feel that the time in which I can do what is in my heart is limited compared to someone who is going into art in their 20s not to mention having the privelege of going to college to major in art. So, I have a lot of catching up to do. I can't paint fast enough. The other stuff will still be there. When I teach adults, I always read a wonderful quote that says not to wait for the right time to do what you want to do. It tells of the woman who wanted to paint but had to work full time and was too tired when she got home. She said she would paint when she retired. Then when she retired, she developed arthritis and couldn't paint, so she said she would paint when she got to heaven. Hell, I'm not waiting til I get to heaven (or hell) to paint!!! Carpe diem!!! Go paint! Kukana Posted on Thursday, March 15, 2001 - 1:20 pm:    Yeah,I know what you mean. Now my computer is my excuse for not getting my art done. I did sell two full sheet paintings yesterday. Thats my excuse for going shopping today . Hey, whatever works! LPMullins Posted on Thursday, March 15, 2001 - 10:53 am:    Hahaha! Kukana! I moved my studio into my computer room in order to help motivate me from the computer to the canvas...but so far it hasn't worked very well... I've become a computer addict & even tho I don't feel like I've spent that much time on the computer, by the time I finish reading & answering e-mails & check cj's discussion board, I've suddenly lost about 4 hours! Is there no cure??? Help! I know I have paintings waiting to be done, and my easel is sitting right next to me. Yet by the time I get everything else done that I either "need" to do or "want" to do, I've used up all of my time. If I don't get to my e-mails first, they pile up on me. I need to learn how to better manage my time! mermaid Posted on Thursday, July 27, 2000 - 11:21 am:    Does anyone else have the problem I do? Although I love to paint, I am an expert at puttering around doing just one more chore, making just one more phone call, before I finally sit down to paint. Once I am seated, I am fine and I don't want to stop? What is it? Fear? Procrastination? Guilt that I should finish everything else first? I would love some feedback. I would also love to have an online support group. Someone who would e-mail me each night and say "Well, what did you paint today?" Anonymous Posted on Thursday, July 27, 2000 - 12:55 pm:    sounds like a good idea. i also have the same problem. how about cheap joe setting up a live chat room? Dan Lee Posted on Thursday, July 27, 2000 - 3:15 pm:    I thought that I was the only one doing that. Remember: the painting is still perfect until we start it. And you can't make a mistake until you start. Peg Posted on Thursday, July 27, 2000 - 6:30 pm:    I have the same problem. I get all excited at work about what I want to do when I get home, but when I actually get home, I'm "too tired" & flop in front of the T.V. I'm trying to at least use excuses that get me in my studio. Tidy it up, organize my picture file (Boy, I have a ton of those!) Anything that will at least get me in my studio. I notice that once I'm in there, I have a tendancy to do something positive - do some sketches, plan a painting. I know it's fear (and lazyness). I'm lucky though. I work for a studio/publishing/licensing company. I see successful artists every day. So I know it can be done. At least I know I'm not alone in my procrastination. D. Callahan Posted on Thursday, July 27, 2000 - 8:58 pm:    Wow, I didn't know there are so many of us who suffer from the same condition. I am not fortunate to have a studio in my home but, really, I have the time to paint. I find I need the group to do any painting. It is best for me to have some other artists with me. I belong to three painting groups in the course of a year and I find the camraderie most supportive. Geeky2 Posted on Thursday, July 27, 2000 - 10:15 pm:    Wow from me also! I think we all need a support group. I'm like the rest-puttering around, organizing, planning, sketching, studying art books, but do little actual painting. I don't yet have painting friends, as I did in Houston. That really helped to motivate each other. Actually, I think personally, I'd be better emailing a few or one artists, rather than a chat group. I'm just not comfortable in a "live" chat group. Guess I'd just need to get used to that. fink Posted on Thursday, July 27, 2000 - 11:06 pm:    Painting with other people can be quite helpful - just to get someone else's ideas. Once a week another artist and I get together and paint for maybe an hour and talk the rest of the time or paint for three hours. Other people see things about your paintings that you don't seem to see yourself. I find that the brief get together once a week, year round, keeps me more focused on the path that I want to take. WOW I LOVE TO PAINT!!!!!!! mermaid Posted on Friday, July 28, 2000 - 8:15 am:    Wheww!! Thanks for the feedback. I don't feel so alone now. I hear what each of you are saying and it makes sense to me. Especially, Dan Lee: The painting is still perfect until you start it. It took me a long time not to regard each piece of watercolor paper as a potential masterpiece. I have come think of each work as being a step in my journey toward becoming a better artist. That way it's ok to take risks and mess up. I think what is making it hard for me to paint now is the feeling of obligation I have to other parts of my life. I am a teacher and therefore I am on summr break until the end of August. However (despite the fact that I look forward to summer as a time when I will have all day to paint) I feel an obligation to take care of other things before I paint. Cleaning the house, fixing really healthy meals, urging my son to work on his college applications, urging my other son to look for a summer job, taking care of things I don't have time to do during the school year. It's as though I put my painting in the catagory of a reward for when I'm all done with everything else. But, truly, when I paint I feel at my best, most alive, etc., etc. So why don't I let myself do the painting first. Is this something that our culture has ingrained in women or in people in general? How do some of the rest of you "give yourself permission" to paint before everything else is done? Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Friday, July 28, 2000 - 10:30 am:    Hi guys, What you are all saying is not only true of those who paint for pleasure, but also those of us who paint for a living. I usually complete between 100-300 watercolor paintings a year. It is the same for me! I have a separate studio next to my house with everything already to roll. I have all kinds of "tricks" to motivate me. Right now I'm working on a drawing book so the painting is waiting...again. So for today: "Procrastination says, "The next advantage we will take thoroughly."-Shakespeare -Carrie Peg Posted on Friday, July 28, 2000 - 11:38 am:    Mermaid, I think you're right. I think women are the "nurturers" and always put others first - their husband, kids, house & whatever. If we put our own wants first, we feel selfish. Unfortunately, in the long run, that will lead to dissatisfaction. I know it did for me. I'm divorced now (other problems, not just that) & am taking care of my own needs & love it. Unfortunatly, I can still find excuses not to get in the studio. Carrie, what "tricks" do you use to get into the studio & actually work? This format seems to work as well if not better than a chat room. Perhaps we should all encourage each other by reporting if we worked on our art this weekend. I plan on it (I always do). Anonymous Posted on Friday, July 28, 2000 - 11:39 am:    WE ARE ALL ALIKE (must be an artist thing!)...I too find many "things" to do other than paint...Lately, I do the want-to things FIRST like painting...each day, I actually have my list of things to do...scheduled...art comes in the first part of the day THEN everything else...I hurry and do the have-to things...it really does work! It is simply a mental game. After I have "allowed" myself the time to paint...I have a much more positive attitude about all those mundane things I have to get done! Also I've recently played another "mental" game to help me MOVE ALONG with my works in progress! I do watercolor, acrylics and oils...when doing a watercolor I no longer get "uptight" about ruining it or being so fearful of losing all my lights etc. My thought is: I can always turn it into a "mixed media" using acrylics, collage, etc. And If I can't make the acrylics "work" I'll turn it into an oil painting! Great "freeing" mental game for me. Now, I paint...knowing I will not ruin a painting! If worse comes to worse...I'll gesso the whole thing and do somehting else or tear it up for a collage! "Relax and enjoy what you do"...my new motto. fink Posted on Friday, July 28, 2000 - 6:10 pm:    Dear Mermaid: I also didn't take time to paint, draw etc. when my kids were home. Now that they are gone, I am not as concerned with keeping the house cleaned up - since there is only 2 of us here and we don't mess it up like it was when there were more of us in the house. I find that if I hurry and get the awful jobs done as fast as I can, painting seems easier. You just have the motherly instinct. That is natural. Geeky2 Posted on Friday, July 28, 2000 - 9:28 pm:    Hi Everyone: Do you have a problem with painting for yourself, instead for other people's approval? I find that when I'm looking for subject matter, I am thinking more of who would like this. This does hinder me to some degree, but I seem to have a hard time getting away from this mental idea. I think it is because for so long, everything I've done has been for a gift for someone in the family. I've been using exercises from art books, some I don't even like, to make myself paint other things. Geeky2 Posted on Friday, July 28, 2000 - 9:34 pm:    Another brief message...Thanks to all of you, I'm finding encouragement. I painted all night last night, using an art book, and art tapes, just to paint, and learn. No great masterpeice, and although it has always been hard for me to copy or go exactly by directions, I did it mostly like the exercise. I feel encourage that I even got that far! Thanks! mermaid Posted on Saturday, July 29, 2000 - 10:23 am:    Thank you, fink. I don't think having a "motherly instint" is all that bad. In fact it's admirable. I just need to be reminded of that once in a while. I have to admit that my two boys are wonderful. And when I ask myself what I REALLY want right now, I would take two great, healthy kids over a stack of good painting anyday!! Thanks for the reminder. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Saturday, July 29, 2000 - 10:23 am:    Hey Peg again. Many of my tricks have already been mentioned (books, tapes, etc) I also keep a schedule and allow only certain times for chores. I also check out my "mood". You know, some days I feel free and sloppy (big brush, big works), some days I feel picky (details on that little number.) Some days I can't commit (a smidge of paint on a bunch of works.) If I match my mood with my art, things seem smoother. mermaid Posted on Sunday, July 30, 2000 - 9:00 am:    Ok, friends, what painting have you done in the last two days? How did you push past the procrastination block? How did you push past the "fear of making a mistake" block? How did you push past the "I feel guilty because I should be doing something for someone else" block. OK, let's have it. Did you do any painting? Let's build some support for each other here! carol Posted on Sunday, July 30, 2000 - 10:49 am:    well,i've been on the road last two day's taking in the views and getting inspired. today it is raining [of course].i have no plans so i can paint all day. i'm going up in my studio now, i'll check back this eve. and let you know how much one can procrastinate or accomplish. fink Posted on Sunday, July 30, 2000 - 7:15 pm:    Mermaid: I did a very small (8 1/2" X 12") painting this weekend. I don't paint constantly for hours at a time. Instead I paint, walk away, think about it and return to fix and go on farther into it. I did a large one about a week ago that is 40" wide and 20" tall. It took alot more thought time than painting time. My big problem is the matting of it since it is too big for conventional sized matt board. A frame shop near here can get bigger board and will cut them for me FOR A PRICE. I try to ignore the success or failure of a paintings since it is only a piece of paper AND with each failure, I learn more than with a success. A friend of mine says that I am driven more than her to paint. I just love it so much and won't let myself be afraid of the paint and paper or success and failure. I find that there is so many things that I want to do and feel that there is so little time. All I have to say is go for it and never stop! Geeky2 Posted on Sunday, July 30, 2000 - 9:40 pm:    OK Mermaid, I'm the great procrastinator. I did use a tape/book and painted a 1/2 sheet, thing of birds from Terry Madden's lessons to get me going. Turned out fair, a little dark. That encouraged me, so I tried one on my own in WC, disaster, mud. Washed it off. Took a nap. Looked at the disaster, took another nap, ate, called family long distance, you get the picture. I'll get back to painting, but am pretty inconsistant. I feel more confident in other mediums, but I'm not giving up! DrewKerrie Posted on Sunday, July 30, 2000 - 10:40 pm:    This is a wonderful idea. I too am like the rest of you. However, I just started in watercolor. I have a good drawing background but never experimented with color too much. Amazingly I love it! I am very confident I can do well with the medium and I have become a sponge soaking up every detail on the how's and why's of watercolor. This along with my 2 year old gives me little time to paint. I decided to take a class on Tuesday night for 2 hours. It has been the best thing really. It is like a mini vacation once a week. If I am lucky, I have a little more time to paint and I force myself not to feel guilty about time, costs, or "other things". After all it's like I tell my husband "It's this or the mental hospital and they are much more costly!" I guess I must be convincing because he seems to support it. Keep painting everyone! mermaid Posted on Monday, July 31, 2000 - 9:13 am:    You're messages brought a BIG smile to my face. I chuckled out loud at your report, Geeky2, it sounds sooo familiar. OK, here's what I did. I figure if I'm going to ask you all to report your progress I have to do the same. Saturday morning I got up early (I am the early bird in the house) and had several hours to myself. I sketched some fantasy fish in pencil. Then everybody got up and the day progressed with family things so I never got any further. I've decided not to beat myself up (mentally) if my painting time is cut into by valid family things. As I said earlier, those are really main priorities for me in my life right now. Sunday afternoon I went back to the sketches and added very juicy, watery color floating on water. When the colors settled they looked pretty good. And I had fun doing it. That's the important thing. I feel satisfied. And, as with all projects, it leads to a myriad of other ideas to try out. I want to add, for Geeky2, that I do all of my paintings for me. What I mean is, I'm not doing them to please anyone else or to fill a particular "order". I am doing them because it brings me great pleasure. As DrewKerrie said earlier, it's cheaper than a mental hospital. It is my leisure time. Other people spend it playing bridge or watching soap operas. I am making absolutely no judgements. I am just saying that this is how I choose to spend my leisure time and this is what renews me and makes me better for the rest of my day. I think I will go do a little painting right now! Please keep up the chatter. I think we can help each other out a lot here. Geeky2 Posted on Wednesday, August 2, 2000 - 12:28 pm:    Hi, me again. Well, after looking at the purple, muddy disaster, I removed that color from my palette, then coated the whole page with watered down gesso. Then I HAd to go to the craft store, and found the Golden Absorbant white ground stuff. (I paid 8.95 for 8 oz. locally. The large jar was 18.00 plus.) I cut the disaster into 4 card sized shapes, and coated one with two thin coats of AWG, with a little water in it. One coat didn't cover the purple. Now I will try to paint something simple on it to try it. Will let you know how it works. I read on another art group, they are using the AWG to recover small areas of white in a painting. In the article in Watercolor winter '98, it mentions that the artist has to seal it with several other acrylic mediums, which sound a little too toxic for me. Might as well use acrylic. But of course, that artist is an accomplished WC artist, not a wannabe like me, so what do I know? mermaid Posted on Wednesday, August 2, 2000 - 1:13 pm:    I've never heard of this AWG stuff. What purpose does it serve? Mike King Posted on Wednesday, August 2, 2000 - 3:37 pm:    Hello! I almost laughed out loud when I saw there was a discussion on procrastination! I'm 47 and have dabbled in pencil art most of my life, but for some reason just couldn't jump in with both feet. I have some minor talent musically, and have spent my entire adult life as a nightclub drummer,and there has been some satisfaction from it, but in my heart I've always known I was some sort of graphic artist. I've always known how liberating it would be to "take the plunge" and commit myself to my true calling.Well, this is it, wish me luck, because I deal with many of these issues being discussed with regard to procrastinastion. I'm pretty much terrified by a clean sheet of drawing paper, but once I finally do dive in, I almost always accomplish some little something that makes me happy. I'm sure these forums will help me a lot, as I plan to venture into other mediums as well. Just Do It!! mermaid Posted on Wednesday, August 2, 2000 - 3:52 pm:    Hi, Mike King! Listen, just keep reminding yourself "it's just a piece of paper!" If you mess up it's not a big deal. Each project you do, with all its mistakes and diappointments (if there are any) is just a step on your journey toward an even better work of art. I happen to be a teacher. If I expected my students to come into my classroom the first day of school and create perfect work products I would be very disappointed and the kids would be nervous wrecks. Along the road to success you must be willing to take chances and risks and you must be willing to make mistakes and learn from them. You must be gentle with yourself. Do you think children learn well when they are scolded for making mistakes in their work? Well, adults don't either, so don't do it to yourself. Go for it. It's only paper and paint. DrewKerrie Posted on Thursday, August 3, 2000 - 12:29 pm:    Well, I patted myself on the back yesterday. Over the weeks I have been in process of converting an upstairs bedroom to my 1st Art studio. This unfortanatly takes longer than I had anticipated because over the years I have compiled several photo reference pictures into one large cardboard box. (really is not a good idea) Now that I can finally call a place my own, I am organizing, filing, and making nice "time consuming" binders etc... I am getting there. However, if any one of you came in to see, it kind of looks like some disaster just occured. This is a depressing, yet thrilling problem that walks hand in hand with the dreadful P word. Anyways, I had an itch to paint so I did. Downstairs on the sofa! Two very small landscapes; turned out quite well in fact, and the biggest thing is that I accomplished it! Mermaid is right, it's just a piece of paper. You have nothing to lose and a possible masterpiece to gain! Well back to sorting. geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 3, 2000 - 12:36 pm:    AWG is Absorbant White Ground, by Golden. I read in one of the lists, on here or other sites, that you could paint this onto canvas or other supports and it is like paper, absorbing watercolors, etc. The artist who uses it on canvas has a web site, (I'll have to look up his name) is really good, and has an article on it in Watercolor, Winter '98 issue. After he paints with watercolor, he has to seal it with several acrylic products, then he can frame it without glass. I was just curious about it. I think I enjoy the technical stuff as much as painting. Obvious, huh? geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 3, 2000 - 12:42 pm:    Me, again. sorry I got into the technical stuff on the procrastination board. Mike, my husband has been a drummer all of his life-now I'm trying to get him interested in painting. Losing battle, I think. He can draw very well, though. Good luck in your painting. Lately nothing I do turns out right in watercolor. carol Posted on Thursday, August 3, 2000 - 2:57 pm:    re:AWG i've tried it also. gives different effects and can cover w/c paper in addition to canvas. wet in wet doesn't work to well, but always like to try different stuff. "goldens" is in my area, and i have been to their place a few times. very nice place, and the folks there are supper. web site with info. goldenpaints.com you can even email them with questions about how the products work. AWG will chew up a soft w/c brush after a while. LynnH Posted on Thursday, August 3, 2000 - 5:20 pm:    Hi fellow procrastinators: I've found journalling and writing down my goals very helpful. In keeping with setting goals: make a schedule of shows, exhibitions and competitions to work towards - its like making a commitment. fonsabring Posted on Thursday, August 3, 2000 - 9:28 pm:    Hello!!! I was so shocked to discover that I'm not the only procrastinator when it comes to painting. Gee, what a relief!! Whew -- I feel better already. HA I thought there was something wrong with me. I use to paint with acrylics but switched to watercolors and have been struggling with them. I know the struggling part has not helped with the procrastination part. If I was having more success with the watercolors, maybe I would put painting higher on my priority list where I want it to be. Thanks for sharing. mermaid Posted on Friday, August 4, 2000 - 1:46 pm:    LynnH, I like your idea about writing down your goals, especially the dates of shows and competitions. It would set everything in a different perspective. I think it would help even more if you shared your goals with other people. And if you asked the other people to remind you of your goals and ask you about your progress. Hence the success of support groups. If you write down your goals but don't share them with anyone, it could be too easy to let them slip away. The excitement was in writing them, not in doing them. Kind of like buying the supplies for a project (you know that excited feeling) and then never quite getting around to it. My mother is a member of a painting group that meets every other week at each other's houses and critiques each other's work (that can be brutal). They are supportive of one another's efforts, they feed off each other's ideas (in a good way) and they keep each other informed of upconing events. They maintain a certain energy and motivation that I think it is hard to do on one's own. I feel very envious of her for that experience. Since I work full time during the school year and also have my children to take care of after work and on weekends, I have not been able to find a group of people who can meet at the same times that are convenient for me (9 to 11 pm on weeknights or 6 to 8 am on weekends). I just can't understand why, can you? So the idea of an on-line support group really appeals to me. Are you listening Cheap Joe? Can you envision how this would work? It would be nice to have a small group of like-minded painters who would check in with each other weekly (at least) and share goals and progress. It would really be nice to be able to post your paintings and share some on-line critiques. It might even be easier to deal with the giving and getting of critiques this way. We would never really know each other, hurt feelings would be greatly reduced (maybe) Honesty would be easier. You're not sitting across from your best friend worrying about hurting her feelings and then having to drive her home and have dinner with her next week. What do you all think? Any comments? Fink Posted on Friday, August 4, 2000 - 2:12 pm:    Mermaid: The idea of support groups is a great help not only for ideas but for added motivation. During the winter and part of the summer a couple of artists and I get together & share ideas, laughs and improvement ideas. Sometime they help and sometimes they don't. We know each other well enough that our critiques never seem brutal because we respect others opinions and ideas. What may work for me would not work for you. I will start: my current goal is to get enough paintings ready for a show that is opening August 15th. I need between 20 and 25 of them. Right now, I am almost to the point of having 25. Not all of them are great but seem better than OK. I have only been working on this since last August. In October I plan on doing one more outdoor show. OK what is everyone else doing? Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Saturday, August 5, 2000 - 9:55 am:    I have to complete about 50 paintings for a cruise to the Holy Land in November. I have about six open weeks (I travel and teach forensic classes on the road). To achieve this, I need to bunch the prep work for the classes I will be teaching (prep workbooks, supplies, handouts) My goal is to prepare for all five weeks on the road during this next week. In addition, I will be presenting five hours--3 workshops--in Sacramento the the American Christians Schools International. I have done this before, but the secret is to "bunch" the work. Once I start painting, then I need to keep it up. Somewhere in there, I also have commissions. Come to think of it, I'm tired just looking at the work................think I'll go back to bed...........-Carrie fonsabring Posted on Saturday, August 5, 2000 - 10:53 am:    I told my painting buddy about this message board and we are going to schedule painting days. Not leave it up to chance like we normally do. We are going to write in on the calendar and it is going to be a weekly thing. When we both were taking weekly art classes, it helped us a lot having deadlines imposed on us. We needed that!!! That was also our first experience with having our work critiqued by the teacher and the entire class. What a humbling experience!! HAHA But, it was such a terrific learning experience to. What better way to see that there is more than one way to approach a subject and also to see firsthand the diversity of artistic styles. My friend and I are beginners so we don't have any deadlines for shows to motivate us but this message board has been an inspiration to me. Just knowing that we aren't alone with our struggles to get motivated and find the time to paint has helped me. I got out my photos yesterday, did some thumbnail sketches and am going to get it onto watercolor paper TODAY!!! Thanks again for the motivation. Mike King Posted on Saturday, August 5, 2000 - 11:42 am:    Geeky 2- Just a thought as to how to get your drummer husband thinking about doing some art: Playing drums requires constant interplay with others. I don't know what level of the music bus. your husband is involved in, but no matter, these relationships rewarding as they can be inevitably lead to conflicts known as "band problems". Are you with me? (ha ha!) I love playing and music, but man, I've had some personality clashes trying to play in various bands. With my art, I'M IN CHARGE! It's me and the materials! I'm the bandleader!!For me drawing is a very refreshing change of pace. I'm not trying to convert your husband, it's just something to consider. (My drums are set up in a corner of our bedroom, & I still enjoy a good "bash" occasionally. But I know what you're dealing with,I have a brother who draws really well, but who just isn't interested. It's amazing! Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, August 5, 2000 - 12:32 pm:    To Mike: My husband thinks, eats, sleeps drums. He has been in bands since he was a kid, the current country club type band now running for 20 years, so you see, he isn't exactly wanting a new hobby. ha ha. Boy, do I know about the band problems!! I'm reading your message to him, as he thinks he is allergic to computers! Good luck in your artwork. Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, August 5, 2000 - 3:23 pm:    To Mermaid & LynnH, Re: journaling. Although I know it is a great idea, and have tried journals, diaries, etc., I always forget about it after a few tries. I really commend you if you can keep it up. Mermaid, I think you hit the nail on the head about after you write things done, you feel as if you have accomplished it. I do that, and buy supplies, the same way. I'm a list maker-then I lose the lists! I've often wished I could connect with a paint group or buddy (beginner!!) to paint with. I think that helps. I'm sure you all know of Susie's "WatercolorWorkshop". It is a great group of people who support each other, put their paintings online, etc. I have just joined them, but I like it. Beginners and experienced painters alike. But, I love & need this "procrastination" group, too. mermaid Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2000 - 8:00 am:    Geeky2 - I don't know about Susie's "Watercolorworkshop" online. I went to Watercolorworkshop.net and watercolorworkshop.com and found other pages but not a Susies's. Waht is the address? Geeky2 Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2000 - 10:58 am:    Mermaid: I'm sorry. It is WatercolorWorkshop (in egroups) and is I think run by Susie, an art teacher/ very good watercolorist. I should explain things better. WatercolorWorkshop@egroups.com To all of you pros: I wish I could just get one good watercolor done, instead of 50! Way to go. kat62 Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2000 - 12:21 pm:    Thanks, all of you for the in-put on journaling and support groups. I have considered starting a artist support group for some time and am very interested in finding an online group of interested people or meeting occassionally with artists in my area. I live in San Francisco and although the artist community is large here, I am new to it (art) and am looking to make contacts, build a group, etc. Any interest? I am an oil on canvas artist. Am doing mainly still-life and landscape as well as some portraiture. I am very interested in trying to find my "voice" so I understand how important it is that i just keep painting and hopefully that will come in time. Does it? thanks for any in-put EVC Posted on Sunday, August 6, 2000 - 4:51 pm:    Joe, I've been impressed with your committment to art and especially your generous support of art groups by supplying prize donations for juried shows. But by far, your "Brushes for Vincent" Program is your most far-reaching and remarkable endeavor. I commend you for your outstanding efforts in bringing art to all. Geeky2 Posted on Monday, August 7, 2000 - 7:45 am:    Hi everyone: this board is addictive! I have painted more lately, so maybe it does motivate us. Drewkerrie: I got a chuckle about you fixing up a studio. Good for you! I have always had a junky spare room of sorts or a utility room to paint in, so when I remarried to a drummer with his own music room, I said I'd marry him if he would provide me a studio/room of sorts for my hobbies.(You can't be too close while a drummer is practicing!!) He did, a big room. Now I have it all cluttered up with "my" things around me. I like it that way for some reason. Another thing, if you get it too cozy and neat, you will people wandering in often, eating, watching tv, and it turns into a family room. So keep it a little "arty" messy. (grin)I like to be in my own little world when I'm thinking something through, especially about painting. Geeky2 Posted on Monday, August 7, 2000 - 8:09 am:    This is a good site to read one artist's thoughts and struggles in painting. http://www.inconnect.com/~mauryk/index.html scraley Posted on Monday, August 7, 2000 - 3:23 pm:    Incredible! I was just thinking "maybe I'll go downstairs and paint tonight", and at the first opportunity to do something else - I took it! Now I know that I'm not alone! I have plenty of ideas of what I want to paint, I guess I'm just afraid of messing up. Like you said, "it's just paper". I will be checking in here more frequently for moral support. Thanks! J.A. Posted on Monday, August 7, 2000 - 7:57 pm:    I get a real kick out of this board. I check in every day and most oftentimes two times or more each day, and I'm never disappointed. Talk about procrastination!!!!! I've had to work on 3 small commissions with a delivery date for the end of August, and I finished the first two with no sweat at all by the end of last week. The problem is that I've started the third one already, but keep putting off really getting "my all" into it. I keep coming to this board for motivation, but end up spending my time enjoying the artistic conversation. Do you think there's still hope for me or is it too late - am I hooked????? mermaid Posted on Monday, August 7, 2000 - 10:08 pm:    How many of you have read the book by Cameron called The Artist's Way? It's a wonderful book. A program for artistic "recovery". The work for one week in the program is to NOT READ ANYTHING all week and use that time to create your art instead. That was the hardest week for me. I realized that I enjoy reading about painting almost as much as doing it. But reading it is not doing it. Geeky2 - Thanks for the great WEB site. I have to confess that I spent about an hour reading through it!!! LynnH Posted on Tuesday, August 8, 2000 - 1:19 pm:    To J.A. Maybe you are reluctant to complete the third commission for fear of having no commitments left after that. Commissions are always a great motivator - once you complete it - you may feel you're getting rid of your motivator?? What a dilemma!! LynnH Posted on Tuesday, August 8, 2000 - 1:28 pm:    mermaid: I think that support groups are a great idea but I believe that if you are looking for the ultimate motivator - the one you can call upon at any time - the most dependable - is yourself. If you get your excitement from writing your goals rather than fulfilling them then why worry about fulfilling them? I don't know how old your children are but what better example and lesson could you give than to show them how to reach their goals and achieve their ambition by taking the time to meet your own. Geeky2 Posted on Tuesday, August 8, 2000 - 10:52 pm:    My goal is...to enjoy myself, learn as much about watercolor as I can, from other artists, books, tapes, classes, and painting. Painting is not the only thing in my life, but I feel the excitement, and often walk around "painting in my head" taking photographs, or just planning the colors I'll use. I also would like to encourage others to give art a chance. When I see my little grandchildren, we all have art lessons and fun. My children grew up around my paints, brushes, and learning techniques, and now they have a great appreciation for the arts. We can make a difference in our own lives and in other's lives, as well. Geeky2 Posted on Tuesday, August 8, 2000 - 10:58 pm:    LynnH: I am also getting out my journal/sketchbook, that I began and forgot about. I am going to make an effort to really stick with it this time. I actually think it will be good for me. Thanks for reminding me. There are some sites somewhere on the web especially about journaling and diaries. I forget where, just do a search for them. We have a good "Procrastinators" group going here. Let's keep it up! mermaid Posted on Wednesday, August 9, 2000 - 8:22 am:    Thanks LynnH, your advise is very sound. My teenage children tell me I tend to be overinvolved. My younger son (15) tells me all the time to paint instead of worrying about him. I think it's a deeper issue I have to deal with: Worry of being a neglectful mother (I've seen too many as a result of my job as a teacher). But I want them to live a life of seeking and achieving their goals and you're so right. What better way to teach them than to set an example. PettyCash00 Posted on Wednesday, August 9, 2000 - 10:36 am:    Its incredible that we all suffer from the same thing! I'm so glad to hear that others have a hard time getting started too. I found one thing that really does seem to work for me and its quite simple. I set down and tell myself that I'm only going to paint tiny feature of my painting, like say a nose on a portrait, or a single tree, and before I know it I'm totally engrossed in the whole painting. Not always but once I get started I just can't seem to put it down. Makes me wonder if what is really holding me back is the time a painting is going to take me to complete overall and so I never start because there isnt a sufficient amount of time available. Another thing that I've found works really well for me is to do something else and just think about a painting. You're still avoiding it but mentally preparing yourself that way, and maybe thats just what your mind needs at that point. Sometimes I'll go garden, or putter around in my shop and just 'plan' a painting. Once I have the whole thing planned out it seems to motivate me because I get more excited about starting then. Give these two things a try, maybe they'll work for you too... Geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 10, 2000 - 12:21 am:    Hi Everyone: I seem to do better if I place my painting in progress where I can see it when I go through the room doing something else, etc. Then I'll go over and "fix" something and paint for awhile then go away for awhile. Eventually, I usually can finish it without over working everything. (Well...sometimes, but it sounded good.)(grin) Mike, I accidentally put a message to you on the "outdoor painting" discussion. Everyone is probably saying, "huh"? Excuse me, please. Mike King Posted on Thursday, August 10, 2000 - 11:54 am:    Geeky 2-Couldn't find your message-have the topics been changed? Care to re-post that? Peg Posted on Thursday, August 10, 2000 - 5:09 pm:    Hi all - I found a GREAT website. (Terrific - just what we need - another reason to procrastinate) It's an online magazine called www.worldofwatercolor.com It has all kinds of neat stuff including column about warming up in order to break the fear of white paper, motivational topics, demos, & bunches of other stuff. It had a good article about setting schedules. Hope you find it useful. Geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 10, 2000 - 10:15 pm:    Mike: It wasn't anything important. Just that my drummer husband says he is playing in two other small bands to get rid of the stress (three bands?)instead of painting, so I guess there is no hope for him. (grin)I'd rather paint! J.A.: About your three commissions...could your third commission be of a subject you aren't really interested in? I found that made a difference to me, years ago, when I took commissions in oils. However, I realize in commissions, you have to overlook that, at times. Good luck on finishing. Ok Everyone, are we still painting or procrastinating? Today I'm procrastinating! geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 10, 2000 - 10:22 pm:    Hi Peg, I found that WorldofWatercolor last night, and was able to spend a lot of time on that site! Those sites usually have a lot of good links, too, and you can really procrastinate. I love it! Good information. I need more work on values and design. I get all caught up in color, and let the other slide, sometimes. Mike King Posted on Friday, August 11, 2000 - 8:27 am:    Geeky 2-Oh yes, I had seen that post-Yes, it sounds like your husband is a true "lifer." (which I admire)-For myself, I gotta put the music on the back burner and see what I can do with my artwork- AS far as procrastination goes, it has been my worst enemy- the only way I can get anything done is to throw off the desire to procr. by sheer force of will, and get my hand moving on my paper. I'm trying to draw something everyday, while I research how to approach painting.-Good luck, & tell your hus. and old burnt-out drummer from Tx says hello! Geeky2 Posted on Friday, August 11, 2000 - 9:36 am:    Mike: I think you are correct about trying to do something everyday. For awhile, I made myself draw something in a sketchbook, that I took everywhere with me, even if it was a drawing of a cola can. My drawings got better, but I didn't keep the sketching up. I'm a true procrastinator! Sometimes, I just make color charts to learn more about values and color, and then it gets me interested in doing something else. I also bought a video about oudoor painting by Tony Van Hasselt, that is encouraging. He goes over the important things like values, and design, and shows you how to go through a painting, to finish later in your studio. He is very down to earth, and funny. By the way, I am from TX also, but my husband is a Virginian. J.A. Posted on Friday, August 11, 2000 - 11:45 am:    lynnH Thanks for the insight. I never thought of the idea of commissions as "motivators" with an ending. It's giving me some food for thought. I've really gotten back my own "motivation" again. I've been working on two landscapes which are flowing more smoothly. Geeky2 You're absolutely right! The subject matter was not all that inspirational for me, and the final painting (which I did finish!) became more like a "job". That's NOT the way I choose my work to be. Everything turned out well. The three clients were very pleased with the results, but I don't think I'll take on anymore commissions right away! Thanks. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Saturday, August 12, 2000 - 10:16 am:    Herein are ten ways I motivate myself to paint. As I am a full time professional artist and have painted in watercolor since 1968 (OK, would you believe I started at 6 months old…). I will paint usually 100-300 watercolor paintings a year plus other types of art. Many of my motivators are not ones you might find useful for yourselves: 1. Eating. Yep, that ole commission is the corner pays for many bills including the grocery store and house payment. 2. Challenge of painting better. Many times I admire a painting in a book or magazine. Many times I wonder how they got into that book or magazine when I could paint much better. Nothing beats the "Waaait a minute, I can do THAT!" 3. Thinking of what I want on my tombstone: "she was an excellent artist, inspiring others" or "she had a clean house". 4. Starting with exciting reference materials. An interesting or exciting photo will provide a great start. 5. Taking a watercolor class. Learning something new. 6. Teaching a watercolor class. Staying ahead of the students. 7. Having a one woman or group show. Gotta get the work done!! Schedule a show, even if you don't have much to show. Watch the paint fly. 8. Buy a new color of paint. 9. Determine that today is "painting day" just like some days are "books and billing day" and "prep for class" day. 10. Pray. -Carrie mermaid Posted on Sunday, August 13, 2000 - 7:47 am:    Thanks Carrie! I love you ten ideas!!! mermaid Posted on Sunday, August 13, 2000 - 5:24 pm:    Geeky2, fink, Mike King, and DrewKerrie please e-mail me if you would like to be part of an on-line support group. We could check in, report our progress, and encourage each other once or twice a week. If you have any suggestions as to how to structure it let me know. If anyone else is interested get in touch with me. ricketts@earthlink.net Fink Posted on Sunday, August 13, 2000 - 8:35 pm:    Mermaid: A support group is a great help when from time to time you struggle with a painting or concept. Today I took my paintings to the local gallery for a 6 week show. The gentlemen that run it are the most excellent people to encourage me to continue, to get better and to push harder. I hope to have a chance for a third year next year. To go there and watch other people look at the paintings when they don't know that I am the artist is quite a kick also. The paintings look so different when grouped together as a one person show as opposed to hanging in every room of my home. Of course, the prospect of selling some is an incentive. By making positive contacts with gallery owners, more opportunities open up for you. After last year's show, he gave my name to one other place where I am going to show this year as well. There was talk today of where else I could go from here that are good spots. DrewKerrie Posted on Sunday, August 13, 2000 - 9:33 pm:    I was just thinking about Carrie's #4 comment on finding something enticing to paint and her other comments on copyrighting. Vacation time is almost over for most of us with kids, but if you are like me just starting to think about selling and finding the hobby is getting a little expensive. (even with cheapjoes prices!) Reference material is hard to come by with learning, reading, practicing, etc. Who has time to go out looking for those snapshots or maybe the "courage" to paint on site. I decided before everyone I knew went on vacation, I would make them an offer. I would pay for a couple of rolls of film and paint a picture (which is great practice for me) if they would take some nice shots for me. I didn't get too specific with them, and none of them were proffessional photographers but I have some absolutely stunning "origionals" of Greece,and out west and a few of mexico. Now granted this won't work for everyone and again these are people I have known for years. If I was to come into a bunch of money from this I wouldn't hesitate to share further but let's be real here I am basically getting some nice inspiration and some good practice and they are getting a nice piece to remember their trip. It's better than filing the pictures away in a trunk. Mike King Posted on Sunday, August 13, 2000 - 9:50 pm:    Mermaid, thanks for the invitation, and let me take a raincheck on the support group for now. I'm only recently picking up my drawing pencils after a lifetime of "dabbleing", I'm trying to stay focused & commited, and can really only depend on myself for that.I found this board just a few days ago, and find it most helpful, I sup- pose it's more or less serving as a support group. Several issues have already been clarified for me, which is most encouraging. All the artists posting seem quite willing to share their knowledge.Thanks again,Mermaid,(will you reserve me a place in your group?) and thanks a million Cheap Joe's for a really great idea! Geeky2 Posted on Monday, August 14, 2000 - 1:19 am:    Mermaid: I'd be happy to email you back and forth now and then to talk painting, but I'm already in a couple of groups, and haven't done anything much to even send in yet. I'm just beginning a beginner's watercolor class in Sept. I'll think about it, but let's do keep in touch. I enjoy all of you, and your ideas. It's a good idea-I'm just a little snowed under right now. mermaid Posted on Monday, August 14, 2000 - 6:59 am:    Thanks for your answers. I understand completely if this is not the right time for you. The time needs to be right or it won't work for you. I was able to do three paintings of landscapes this weekend. Although they are not really anything I am crazy about, I was able to practice some techniques I had read about and they really did work. I would like to be one of those people for whom the skills just fall into place naturally without having to read about them. Are there people out there like that? Or do we all need to be taught? Carol Posted on Monday, August 14, 2000 - 9:01 am:    Mermaid. The way I procrastinate is to start going through all my art books,which I value greatly.Every time I see one by an artist whose style I like, I buy it. The problem with this is, you can't paint like them all,[ I have to learn this] I feel that I have the best luck,just learning composition,color values, and design. After a while everything falls into place[I hope] One great book that I keep going to is "Watercolor Fix-It Book" by Tony Van Hasselt. Has great deal of info. on value design aand comp., and is easy to understand Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Monday, August 14, 2000 - 9:03 am:    DrewKerrie, what a great idea for photo references! We usually ask our friends for pictures they have taken. At some of the art shows, we have been approached by friends asking if we had photos of such things as elk and deer. I had a big commission for the Halikalina (sp)hotel in Hawaii for a subject I did not have a photo reference of. I paid a professional photographer for limited copyright use of some of his photos. I start my painting marithon later this week. -Carrie Geeky2 Posted on Monday, August 14, 2000 - 11:27 am:    Good luck Carrie!! Keep in touch. Mermaid: I'm like you. Sometimes I can just take off and feel inspired, but at other times, I need instruction. When you are just beginning in watercolor, it can be very humbling. I know! Like Carol, I buy every book and tape I can get my hands on, if I like them, and I do use them. I also like Tony Van Hasselt. I just recently bought his tape on outdoor painting, and I have the Fix-it Book. They are good, and teach things I need, like values, design, etc. One of the other art forums-WetCanvas, I think, has a discussion about making yourself take "art dates" to get out and take photographs, or doing anything that helps you. Some good ideas there. I think I am going to start getting out and taking more photographs of things around the area. Some weeks, I can't get going at all, so I just read and think. This is one of those weeks!! Husband on vacation and remodeling going on! In fact, I think it is time for an "art date" and I'll look for a new book, or call CJAS for some paint or something! Then I can barely wait for the UPS delivery to get here DrewKerrie Posted on Tuesday, August 15, 2000 - 10:22 pm:    Carrie- What is an average fee for using a photo reference if I may ask? I bet you just recieved my request for your book! You have so much information and are very helpful to us all. I am with Mike- I need to stay more focused as I am just starting too. Getting all your marbles in a row is the half of it I think. Practice, practice, practice is the other half is the other (maybe?) not there yet. Mermaid- I think it would be great if we could get together and look at each other's work, support each other to keep going, etc. I did talk to the guy's at work and they didn't have any info, unfortunatly. I'll keep looking. Thanks to cheap joe's for this website! Where would we be without it! Geeky2 Posted on Wednesday, August 16, 2000 - 7:37 pm:    Where is everyone? Working hard? I've done a little painting, learning curve! Mermaid, three landscapes is a lot. Good job. I'm just using books, tapes, online info, etc. trying to learn a little about handling WC until my class in Sept. I really hope it will be a good instructional class. DrewKerrie: Someone mentioned that you have a book. A WC book? if so, where can I find out about it? Am I the only one still procrastinating?? (grin) I know you are out there. J.A. Posted on Thursday, August 17, 2000 - 8:04 am:    geeky2 I've been working hard, but always try to find time to log onto the message board. I need the break AND the information, as well as the terrific conversation with friends. Working on two new landscapes, another one was accepted into an invitational show and will hang until Sept. 9th. Besides painting, been fitting in weddings, late graduation parties, watching grandchildren, etc,etc,ETC!!! But, needless to say, I'M RIGHT HERE!!! Youre not alone!(grin) Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Thursday, August 17, 2000 - 10:40 am:    Hey DrewKerrie, your goodies are in the mail back to you. Thank you for the order and the note. I paid about $50 for 6-8 photos of orchids (the commission was for orchids). The paintings were to be 2' x 5'. They turned out great but the client hated flowers (I was working through a decorator). The pieces were returned and sold about 15 minutes after they arrived in the gallery. The client settled on a set of paintings of windsurfers. I then went over to a greenhouse and took a few rolls of film for my own orchid reference shots and have painted them many times since. I was grateful to the photographer and he was happy for the $$. I just sold a large (48" x 48") landscape and am now Waaaaayyyyyy behind on getting new work out. I took my dining room paining in to replace the sold one. I had to get new boards for my Israel series--I want to have about 8 paintings going at once. -Carrie (I'm already tired............) Mike King Posted on Thursday, August 17, 2000 - 12:36 pm:    Hi Geeky 2! I've been drawing, drawing, drawing- just trying to gain more control of my lines. I'm excited about trying some painting, but in no urgent hurry, as it will take me a little while to acquire my materials. I feel I've got to jump into some oils as soon as possible, since that is the medium that I've always been most attracted to. In the meantime, my pencils keep me happy! Procrastiation is not really a light- hearted subject for me,because I'm sorry to say I've had a SERIOUS problem with it.(Shall I use the "L" word? ha!)Thankfully as I get older, My resolve seems to grow stronger. I'm really fired up at present, and have been sticking to my guns about commiting something to paper every day. But best of all it's not tedious as drawing has been for me in the past- I'm having fun! I'm really enjoying this board too! -Eight paintings at once!!! Lord have mercy Carrie! mermaid Posted on Thursday, August 17, 2000 - 3:59 pm:    It's so good to hear about the progress each of you is making! I hope the energy each of us has will create more energy for the others...kind of like a snowball. I just returned from a college visit in Pittsburgh with my sons. I did some pencil sketches in the hotel room and visited the art store at Carnegie-Mellon. It was very well supplied and I was able to get some markers in different intensities of gray which I have been searching for for value sketches. On the way back we stopped in Winchester, VA and visited a little gallery with watercolors by a man named Eugene B. Smith. Eugene, if you're out there I love your work. He paints scenes of the Shenandoah valley area in a very limited pallete of muted colors. What could easily be a boring landscape he has turned into something beautiful and peaceful. I wish I could afford one. Anyway, seeing what he did with just a few colors inspired me and this weekend I intend to try my hand at a seaside landscape in a limited pallette. so please ask me on Monday if I actually did it. Keep up the good work everybody! Good luck on your marathon, Carrie. Geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 17, 2000 - 7:54 pm:    Well, I wrote a message congratulating each one of you and adding bits and pieces-but it disappeared! That's the second one that's gone away. Cheap Joe, are you trying to tell me something? (grin) I didn't even get to correct my mistakes, so if it shows up, please excuse the mistakes! Geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 17, 2000 - 8:05 pm:    Well, this is the third message I've tried to put on the board today, congratulating all of you. They disappeared! Somebody trying to tell me something?? (grin) I suppose our part of the board is getting so big-the best one I think. We can't break it up, though! I'll write later. Remember, we are only procrastinating in one area of our art work at one time...there are many different aspects of painting. Drawing, planning, inspiration...buying supplies... CJAS Graphics (Terry) Posted on Friday, August 18, 2000 - 7:38 am:    We have never had that problem before....it may have been due to the fact that the domain that this forum sits on (cjas.com) was off line (not our fault) for about a half day this past week. So you may have had the site in your computer cache and your post didn't quite make it to the live board. We have taken care of the situation. One thing I tell most internet users is to empty the browser cache every week or so to keep things up to date. Your browser normally does this for you on a 24-48 hour polling basis, but sometimes (esp. with IE 5) it doesn't always clean things up. Anyway, great job you guys on keeping things lively in the artist's forum. Terry Henry carol Posted on Friday, August 18, 2000 - 8:34 am:    Geeky 2....... speaking of digital cameras for art purposes, does anyone have any sug. also while on the sub. how about scanners? Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Friday, August 18, 2000 - 9:44 am:    Hi Carol, The whole topic of digital cameras and scanners (not to mention the internet use of them) probably deserves an entire section rather than get buried in the "fear" section. What do you guys think? -Carrie mermaid Posted on Friday, August 18, 2000 - 1:19 pm:    I agree. There is so much to know about them. I will just put in my two little cents here. We own a Mavica digital camer that allows us to record the pictures on a 3 and 1/2 inch disk. I really like it because it means I can store the photos on disk and carry them or send them anywhere. It works for me although I have heard others say they like the other kinds of cameras that use cables to connect to the computer. Geeky2 Posted on Friday, August 18, 2000 - 4:52 pm:    Hello! I started a "Art and digitial Camera" discussion under watercolor topics (probably should have put it elsewhere) if anyone wants to contribute. Geeky2 Posted on Friday, August 18, 2000 - 4:55 pm:    To CJAS (Terry) If anyone is going to break something, it would be me! (grin) We appreciate your putting the board up for us, and certainly do not blame anyone for anything! Thanks! DrewKerrie Posted on Friday, August 18, 2000 - 11:45 pm:    Carrie - Just heard about your marathon, good grief! You'll do fine though. As for your book it is wonderful! I am to F and I think maybe I'll stay up and read all night. I love the humor too. How did you know I needed more vegies?! Cute. Keep up the good work. Oh and don't forget to get a little shut eye- it works both ways you know :) DrewKerrie Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 12:19 am:    Oh Geeky and those of you who are looking for info on this book. It is Carrie's book not mine! It can be found on the Buisness of Art site (cheapjoes topics) or just mail Carrie Stuart Parks herself at this address: Carrie Stuart Parks, The Art Studios of the Coeur d'Alenes, P.O. Box 73, Cataldo, ID 83810 (208) 682-4564. The book is $25 with $6 shipping. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 3:51 pm:    DrewKerrie, Bless your heart and all your vital organs! I have yet to start on the art--we had to prep 8 new boards of a different size. I'm grateful that I've had the time to work on some of my upcoming forensic classes. (I start teaching a composite certification class Monday.) All those bad guys had to be scanned and printed for various lessons. Thanks again. -Carrie Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 3:57 pm:    Carrie: What type of boards and prep do you use? gessoed or Absorbant White Ground on masonite? They are so large. Mike King Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 4:06 pm:    Just reporting on my work-Spent the week copying stick figures from an old figure drawing book by Victor Perard. These little figures are very ex- pressive, and make my practice fun. He uses a sort of "shorthand" to indicate the position of the skeletal components while portraying these little guys & gals engaged in all different activities. (reclining,sitting,pushing,wrestleling,ballet, baseball,fencing) you get the picture. Then he very lightly "clothes" about half of them. The concept of course is to give the student a sense of the frame on which the figure is built. He includes the curvature of major bones rather than just straight "sticks", making the exercise more challengeing. I've been giving myself definate assignments to complete and holding myself to it. I'm even keeping a "time sheet", recording hrs. spent working. Does that sound extreme? I just want to stay on track and not relapse into that procrastination mode of mine. There are approx. 40 figures on about 4 pages in my present assign- ment, and I'm maybe a quarter way done. That's what I'm doing,while researching oil painting. Anyone still awake after that?-Ha! Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 4:08 pm:    All Procrastinators: Another artist and I were discussing the possibility of next year trying to find a spot (the most available to everyone on the discussion) to meet for a paint-out for a day or so. May not be able to, if everyone is scattered too far or too busy. What do you think? I live in VA, one artist lives on North East coast... Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 4:12 pm:    Mike: Sounds like you have a plan. Whatever works for you. Sounds like you are having fun with your artwork. That's great! Mike King Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 4:35 pm:    Thanks,Geeky2(Uh oh, we're using the forum for a chatroom!) My advise to young people who have a desire to make art is: Just do it!! I looked up "procrastinate" in the dictionary-One def. was "To put off until the morrow" A wise old lady once told me,"Yesterday's gone and tomorrow never comes!" Don't wait until later in life to really push your art. Stay at it and the breakthroughs will come. I'm not entirely starting from scratch because I've always drawn a little. But I'd be a LOT farther along had I stayed with it in my youth. If there's any other "old guys" out there who are "starting over", I'd say the same thing to them: Just do it!! geeky2 Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 6:57 pm:    Well, I'm kind of an "older girl" who is starting over with art...I joke around about procrastinators-most of us are joking...but I think most of us are doing something, we just know that we need to try harder. I'm enjoying the talking part. How many of you have lots of people that you can really talk about art, and needing to get busy, and all the things to do with art? I don't. I know a lot of people, but they don't want to talk about art, or think artists are nuts anyhow. mermaid Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 9:25 pm:    Geeky2, your question about how many people have other artisits to talk to is important. Why do you think artists form guilds? Before I went back to work full time I belonged to a guild. We met once a month and shared ideas and enthusiasm. Everyone would leave a meeting all pumped up and ready to go home and try something new or retry something old. We also pooled our money and payed to have workshops and buy books. It was great fun and we all learned a lot from each other while we kept each energized and eager to keep working. Unfortunately, if there is not a guild in your area or if the local guild meets at a time that is inconvenient to you, you have a hard time taking advantage of it. So here we are doing the best we can. (I live in Virginia, too, and I'll never forget when I moved here twenty some years ago and I called to inquire about the local guild. When I was told they met on Thursday mornings, I said "Oh, then I can't come because I work." and the woman on the other end of the phone said in a sweet southern drawl "Oh, honey, every day?" I painted a lovely seascape today and I am very happy with it! Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2000 - 9:51 pm:    Mermaid, I got pretty much the same reaction here about the same type thing. (In TX I belonged to every group around, and enjoyed it.) Some here told me I had to send in so many slides to see if I was a beginner or not. No beginners. duh. It was probably just a "person" doing this and not the whole group. Needless to say, I've never called again. So, I really appreciate my online art buddies. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Sunday, August 20, 2000 - 9:56 am:    Hi Mermaid and Geeky2- On the boards, I just buy hunks of plywood and seal them with varithane. My largest paintings are on 4' x 4' sheets--you should see how much fun it is to work wet-on-wet at that size! Maybe we can all get together in Virginia. My husband is from Virginia--his family lives there and we do go back and visit--he was raised in Woodbridge. His dad and sister live in Luray area. I hate "art snobs"--people who use art to fulfill their caste system-- "oooo, soo you're a professional aaaartist? I feel aaarrt should not have aany commercial value, you see, because it has sooooo much more meaning otherwise..............." I took on the local "arts council" and told them they were ignorant in the paper (I got atta-boy letters from as far away as Boise.) I am one of the three regional directors for the North Above North Idaho Watercolor Society. We're a pretty friendly group and are grateful for MEMBERS! Happy painting! -Carrie drollere Posted on Sunday, August 20, 2000 - 12:55 pm:    i warmly recommend the book ART AND FEAR by bayles and orland ... see the review at http://www.handprint.com/HP/WCL/book4.html#bayles reading it is a great way to procrastinate! DrewKerrie Posted on Sunday, August 20, 2000 - 8:02 pm:    I would love to meet all of you in Virginia next year to paint. It is a bit of a drive for me as I am from Michigan but no further than IDAHO! I am also grateful to all of you for the info and the importance of keeping us in line with our goals. I have made a goal with myself that I will be in a gallery by March. If it is sooner, than it will be all the better! I have put art on the back burner for far too long and now is the time. I also am going to call our local society tomorrow to find out the times, requirements etc... A group does help motivate. Mike- I agree about the youth thing! Drat! The hindsight/foresight thought caught us again. When are we going to get it the 1st time? Also, that is a great idea about the time sheets, it is a simple thing to do and you can see how much you've acomplished. Carrie- I finished your book in record time! "Nuff said", I got some work to do! mermaid Posted on Sunday, August 20, 2000 - 8:24 pm:    Mike - I like your idea, too. Being a teacher I am used to accomplishing things in blocks of time. I'm going to try setting up my own schedule for my personal "art school" I want to share a quote with you all that I read in Daniel Pinkwater's book about painting: "My method and theory of art: I have this desk. When I spend a number of hours per day seated at it, I usually end up having written or drawn something. When I don't sit, I don't write or draw because I am fooling with the dogs, talking on the phone, or fixing the stairs. My artistic production is of higher quality than my imagination, skill, or intelligence would suggest, which leads me to believe that those faculties have very little to do with it. I would not take a million dollars for that desk." Mike King Posted on Monday, August 21, 2000 - 8:08 am:    Thanks guys. I just wrote an epic post and lost it! Hate when that happens! So I'll just wish everyone a good productive week, and start making my way to my pencils! I work a night shift, and I'm rested up from the wknd. so I'm gonna burn some graphite today! I see my wife has placed a new tank valve kit on the toilet, so guess what I'm gonna do first? Bummer! (ha!) Geeky2-Jean Posted on Tuesday, August 22, 2000 - 9:25 am:    Yeah, for some reason my husband feels he need to eat meals at home...oh well. Doesn't he realize I'm going to be famous? (tongue in cheek) Keep on paintin' geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 24, 2000 - 7:48 pm:    Where is everybody? Are the procrastinators painting? Lots of shows coming up and everyone is probably busy, busy, busy. Good luck to all of you! Fink Posted on Thursday, August 24, 2000 - 9:29 pm:    Geeky2 It is a nice night, I didn't want to paint so alot of other things are getting done tonight - exciting things like laundry, cleaning, cooking, etc. No images are popping up for me today, perhaps tomorrow. Happy painting. Geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 24, 2000 - 10:41 pm:    Hi Fink, I've also been doing some cleaning, inspection stickers due, things not too inspirational. Happy painting to you also! Lindsay Posted on Friday, August 25, 2000 - 10:15 am:    No, Geeky 2, I have been bragging that I have finally got my new studio finished and it's been setting for a week now and I haven't so much as opened a tube of paint! I need to get going on something but have no creative juice today. Any suggestions? Mike King Posted on Friday, August 25, 2000 - 12:55 pm:    Hi, Geeky2,Fink,& Lindsay-Still working on my "stick-men" exercise, trying to get some control over my drawing. Yesterday was my day to procrastinate, didn't touch a thing all day until just before bedtime, when I sat on a stool in front of the bthrm mirror & did a 10 min. sketch of myself-not a pretty sight! ha! But I slept better having at least picked up a pencil. Hope you guys don't mind If I hang out with you on the procrastination discussion even though it's in the watercolor category...Happy artmaking and have a nice wknd! Geeky, hope the drumming is going well! Tell your husband I just sold two old Zildjian cymbals to buy art supplys! I can hear the tsk, tsk, tsks from here! ha! Geeky2 Posted on Friday, August 25, 2000 - 2:39 pm:    Hi gang! Mike! tsk tsk. , but for art supplies...well..that's different. Glad you are sketching. Self portrait is the thing today, and evidently always has been with artists. One of these days maybe I'll try a portrait of me when I was younger! Mike, hang out with us! We'd miss you. (I have to iron his band shirt right now!) Lindsay, several artists have recently said the same thing. Do you think it is the fall weather? (grin) I have the motivation problem a lot. Usually I start talking about art with some of you, or start just trying colors out, or looking through art books, tapes, etc. and then I'll decide to try something, even if it is just an exercise. Sometimes trying to paint something that you ordinarily don't do, will get your mind on your art. Today a friend and I visited small galleries, and that was good. There were all levels of painting. So we are trying to set some goals for ourselves to get some paintings ready. We all have to try things to inspire us. I wish I was driven more (I think), but I'm not. Also, Lindsay, a new studio is NEW to you, and until you become a little more settled in, you are thinking NEW Studio, not painting. I have to really get comfortable, my things around me, etc. before I'll paint much in a particular place. I even have a hard time in class because I feel so out of place. That's just me, maybe not for you. Good luck. Try some of those things. Geeky2 Posted on Friday, August 25, 2000 - 2:47 pm:    Oh Lindsay, I meant to say, don't be so hard on yourself. It's a lot of thought and work getting your studio ready. You will paint soon. Just don't feel guilty when you don't feel like painting. If you haven't been on this board long, go back and search for messages back in July or earlier if they have them, you will see that professional and beginner artists go through the same thing. Good luck! Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Friday, August 25, 2000 - 5:03 pm:    Ok, sorry for not hanging out. I had my Composite Drawing Certification class this week and have been surrounded by mugs of bad guys and correcting noses. I didn't start yet on the fifty paintings (I think I might be in trouble here if I don't crack down). I will paint my brains out tomorrow. On Monday I will be heading to the courthouse to do courtroom sketches for the TV news. The case is the Neo-Nazi Arian-Nations trial. Watch for my sketches!! (Does that count for art?) -Carrie Geeky2 Posted on Friday, August 25, 2000 - 6:01 pm:    Yes, Carrie! That's so interesting. I knew someone in Houston in the 70's (Thelma Runnels) a good artist & teacher, that did courtroom sketches. I still have the news stories of her drawings. Fink Posted on Friday, August 25, 2000 - 6:47 pm:    Mike King: I really had to laugh about your self portrait. I have tried, off and on, for several years to do a good self portrait but none have turned up yet. If one seems good to me, I show someone else and they say "Who is it?" Ha Ha. From the way they look, my drawings look like I want to look not how I look, unfortunately. Right now my show is up and I sold the first one there of children walking in the woods. From the way that sold (within the first week) I definately need to work on doing people. Well maybe Monday. Ha Ha. Geeky2 Posted on Friday, August 25, 2000 - 10:08 pm:    Congratulations, Fink! A well-known artist once did a pastel color sketch of me, framed it and sold it to my husband. My children (grown) said, "who is that"? I think sometimes people see you "in reverse" like in a mirror or something, and don't recognize you, if it doesn't fit their mental image of you. (Is that good or bad??) Does that make sense-I'm not sure. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Saturday, August 26, 2000 - 9:08 am:    Congrads, Fink! I don't paint myself. Ugh. My husband has painted me twice and they are hanging in the house. He is very generous in his art. They look like me but he fixed up the uglies. "Through the eyes of love" and all that. -Carrie Geeky2 Posted on Sunday, August 27, 2000 - 12:58 am:    Mike: If you are hanging out here on the "Fear " board, look on the "Oil Paint" board for your Turner medium information. Geeky2 Posted on Sunday, August 27, 2000 - 1:11 am:    Probably some of you either belong, or read the Wet Canvas board (all media), but if you don't: they are having another paint get together Sept. 9-10, some a few days earlier. It is at Colonial Beach, VA. You can read about it at WetCanvas, if you are close enough to go. There is an art show on the weekend.I have company that week, so I'm not sure if I'll make it. Mike King Posted on Sunday, August 27, 2000 - 1:16 pm:    Geeky, yes, I got your formula for medium, & yeah, it's a lot like the Taubes one. -Thanks! Gotta check out that WetCanvas site... Melissa Posted on Sunday, August 27, 2000 - 5:38 pm:    It's interesting to read about all the procratinators. I am one, too. I find it hard to get started painting, then I really get into it and find it hard to quit. One thing that helps me fit painting into my full family life (I homeschool my three children) is that I paint in the evenings while my husband reads to all of us. That way I feel I can justify the time since there isn't much else I could do. As long as I keep him supplied with good books to read to the children, I can fit in time to paint. Otherwise I tend to let painting take time from my family once I get into it, and that never works well for us. geeky2 Posted on Monday, August 28, 2000 - 10:21 pm:    My children are grown now, Melissa, but I can understand about finding time, especially when children are small. You need time for your artistic thoughts and endeavors also. Some artists are making schedules that include their art time, as well as other family member's special times. Since your husband seems very good at helping with the children, he will probably help you find some artistic time. Don't feel guilty about a little time for yourself. Your family will probably take pride in your artistic efforts. geeky2 Posted on Monday, August 28, 2000 - 10:31 pm:    Well, I think maybe the title of the discussion could be "Strugglers." I seem to be able to encourage everyone but myself. I must be in an "artist's block" now. Can't seem to do anything correct, lately. I read somewhere that artist/painters have "blocks" like writers, so maybe there is hope. Evidently, mood & health play a big part in this. One solution advised, is to paint something wild or different. Maybe I'll try that! Mike King Posted on Wednesday, August 30, 2000 - 12:09 pm:    Hey guys-we're procrastinating so badly we can't even post on the procrastiator's discussion!-ha! This is the first day I've logged on and not found new messages on this discussion! Seriously, I'm sure everybody's busy. I'm still burning graphite practicing my drawing and really enjoying it' I think I'm getting more command of my hand as a result. You know I think exchanging ideas ABOUT procrastinating has helped me NOT to do it! I mean, it's kind of hard to have a discussion about it, then not want to stay busy and overcome that ole lethargy! After all, if I start being lazy again, I'd have to report it to my new art buddys, right? Wouldn't want that! Mike King Posted on Wednesday, August 30, 2000 - 12:11 pm:    Geeky, hang in there, your inspiration will come! Luv2PAINT4U Posted on Wednesday, August 30, 2000 - 5:54 pm:    My boys are older now and I have finally given myself permission to let my artistic juices flow more freely. I have always allowed myself to have a flair for design in decorating and murals and house thingys but I devoted a lot of time to my family and I am glad for it~ But now I am painting and teaching watercolors as well. Everything in its own time? How about this for INSPIRATION: I had LASIK surgery to correct my bad vision and unfortunately fell into the 1% group who it doesn't work for. They ended up thinning out my cornea too much and the pressure behind the eye pushed out the cornea and created a bulge. For a year now I have had awful sight and just got to the bottom of things. Now I am wearing a hard rigid contact lense and may need a cornea transplant. The right eye is now experiencing some problems and may end up the same way OK what does this have to do with INSPIRATION? I look at things now like I may never see them again. When we think our time is limited we "see" with different eyes and it inspires us. Look at things like its your last chance and see what it does for you..... It worked for me =) Best to you all you inspire me , give me a good laugh and make me feel people out there understand. THANKS! Luv Geeky2 Posted on Wednesday, August 30, 2000 - 11:48 pm:    Dear Luv,and everyone, That is one of the most feared things, I guess, losing one's sight. I truly hope yours gets better, and I really admire your spunk. Even when I can't paint, I can read about it, and feel things will get better. Thanks to everyone who takes the time to encourage others. That, and a good sense of humor helps! G. Nina Posted on Thursday, August 31, 2000 - 11:37 am:    Hi Luv--it sounds like you are making the very best out of a difficult situation. There is a beauty in you being able to tell us that your decline in vision has increased your desire and ablity to "see" with different eyes. Sounds like you are connecting to the soul of the things you are viewing--your work will probably take on an added dimension of emotional quality--beyond mere techniques--a formula for great painting! Thanks for the inspiration and sense of "do it now" that your message has conveyed. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Thursday, August 31, 2000 - 8:25 pm:    I have not been procrastinating. Much. OK, I have a great excuse. Starting Monday I have been cranking out 4-9 drawings and paintings a day for KREM/CBS News on the Aryan nations trial in Coeur d'Alene. My eyeballs are falling out. My hands are cramped. I'm surrounded by Neo-Nazis and art critics. (The wife of the second-in-command at the Aryan compound sat behind me as I drew her husband……talk about pressure.--I will note she asked for a copy…) I walked out the door of the courthouse between Irv Levine (head of the Jewish Defense League) and the skinheads. He waved at them with one finger. WAIT A MINUTE, I'M IN THE MIDDLE……………. I did start five watercolors of Israel on Saturday (talk about irony). Jeepers, It's getting hard to be an artist these days………………….. -Carrie Geeky2 Posted on Thursday, August 31, 2000 - 11:32 pm:    Carrie: I've been looking for your drawings-but not too much in the news- way out here on the E. Coast. (yet) You take care! Emily Rynard Posted on Friday, September 1, 2000 - 1:44 pm:    Carrie, I think that you should start a discussion board about your career. From the posts of yours I've read it seems very interesting. I bet there is tons of things that go into courtroom art that most people never think of. I am in awe of anyone that can do that kind of art work. What pressure!! Kukana Posted on Friday, September 1, 2000 - 10:09 pm:    About Carrie Parks...Emily, and others of you who have interest...Here's the inside scoop. I am a former student of Carrie's and feel extremely honored that our relationship has turned into one of friendship. She is just as wonderful as she sounds. She is a talented, witty, talented, smart, talented, funny talented and gifted artist.(and did I mention talented???) She is the most extrodinary teacher. Her workshops are the best! She has the gift of taking complex theories and simplifing them so that anyone can understand. Her students walk away empowered with the skill, and knowledge to paint as well as a huge boost of self confidence. She teaches workshops all over the country in both forensic art and watercolor. I have never known anyone more willing to share of her time and talents as Carrie is. She will teach anyone who asks everything she knows , never threated or territorial about her tricks of the trade like some artists. She is very modest about her work. You might never learn from her that her art hangs as featured work in several 5-star hotels, corporate collections too numerous to mention as well as some of the most prestigous private collections. She has so much experience and a wealth of stories pertaining to her work she could keep you mesmerized and in stitches for hours. Just thought you'd like to know! (Carrie, I expect full compensation for this!!!!-SUZ-aka Kukana) Carrie Posted on Saturday, September 2, 2000 - 8:46 am:    Thanks, Geeky--I heard it was on KING news in Seattle and Boise. The other artist, John, will have his on CNN. He's a very fine artist--did the Waco trial and the Ruby Ridge trial. Emily, the courtroom stuff is not my usual haunts. And, as Kukana knows, some of my most interesting stuff I can't talk about. What would we even call this discussion board, more of a "Dear Abby?" or "the Trials of Pauline?". Suz, You make me humble. Luv ya, gal. BBBIIIIIIIIIIggggggg compensation for this one! -Carrie geeky2 Posted on Saturday, September 2, 2000 - 1:20 pm:    Carrie, I think all of us value your inspirational and technical input. I know the discussion would not be the same without you. Of course, I still think you are " A " trip! (grin) Emily Rynard Posted on Saturday, September 2, 2000 - 7:06 pm:    Carrie, I don't know what you'd call it. Maybe it would fit in on the business of art room. I know that I flip through old post to see what you have written. Maybe "Dear Carrie" would work. Do you ever do workshops in Indiana? I guess I better let this board go back to being about procrastination. artgal Posted on Saturday, September 2, 2000 - 7:21 pm:    This is so wild. I have the same problem. I'm a new artist i guess you could say and i find that i have a very hard time spending a lot of time doing my art. i have a friend who is a composer and he spends tons of time listening to music and writing music and reading about music and i envy how involved he is with what he loves. i've decided that i procrastinate with my art work because i'm afraid of rejection. i don't know how it is for all of you but i'm afraid that my work won't be up to my standards or to what i imagined it would be. i'm even some times afraid of what other people might think of my work. but i guess that's just part of being an artist. so i guess we might as well get over it and create. Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, September 2, 2000 - 8:56 pm:    Artgal: Everyone feels the same way, at least part of the time, from what I've heard and read. Other artists, such as musicians (I'm married to one)can watch music on tv, listen ro records, etc. and it isn't procrastination. We tend to blame ourselves for reading about art, online encouragement, etc., instead of always painting. We joke sometimes about procrastination, but really we are "painting in our heads" and planning, or learning new things, most of the time, even when we are not actually swishing a brush through water or paint. I know I am at a point where I am going in too many directions with my painting (need to have a goal or two) and stick to one thing for awhile. Hang in there. You will do just fine. Kukana Posted on Sunday, September 3, 2000 - 10:48 am:    My paintings really suffer when I go a while between work. When I finally get back to the studio I quickly become convinced that I've lost my touch! It takes a couple of botched pieces to get me over the hump. Even though I know this, I fear going in and getting those pieces out of the way! I haven't painted in almost 2 weeks and i have two commissions waiting for me. I need someone to lock me in the studio and throw away the key! Any takers??? Mike King Posted on Tuesday, September 5, 2000 - 8:58 pm:    Hello fellow procrastinators-Don't know if I'll EVER completely overcome my fear of a clean sheet of paper! But the more I work, the easier it is to jump in & work THROUGH the fear. For example, if i'm drawing a figure, I go ahead (after the planning, of course,) and get something down, usually the shape of the head or shoulders,then at least I have a reference point for placement of other components. I'm trying more to "feel" the forms rather than constantly measuring- BORING! Does anyone else have a similar approach? Looking forward to getting my first set of paints. (actually my second, but that was years ago) Waiting for my money from those cymbals, Geeky2! Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Wednesday, September 6, 2000 - 10:15 am:    Actually, I consider drawing very boring--it's the watercolor that I love. I make sure the (boring) drawing is perfect before I start painting (unless it's a more abstract work). -Carrie Mike King Posted on Wednesday, September 6, 2000 - 10:46 am:    Carrie- I have no experience to speak of with color- I only post in this category because none of the others have the "procrastination" subject. But I am definately interested in painting, and fully intend to dive in before long. Though I'm going to try oils first. I'll get around to trying watercolors too, and I know just where to go for help- Right here! As for drawing, I just love it! I can see how "black & white" could be boring to people, but a good, crisp pencil work turns me on as much as a beautiful painting. I could gawk at Da Vinci's drawings for hours- a "man thang" maybe? artgal Posted on Wednesday, September 6, 2000 - 12:31 pm:    Geeky2 that's just it. i find myself reading a lot about art or artists and start to feel bad like i should be producing art instead of reading about it. i like your saying "painting in our minds". i guess you're right. and i do get jealous of my composer friend. he can listen to music and do other things at the same time. i guess an artist can really only do one thing at a time. anyway, thanks for the encouragment. artgal Posted on Wednesday, September 6, 2000 - 12:38 pm:    i'm working on this painting that i don't really like. it's of the beach at night. i'm doing it for a friend who asked for a painting of the beach. anyway, i was a the beach one night and i just thought it was beautiful so i decided to paint it. anyway, it's not turning out how i really wanted it to. should i let it go for awhile, start over, keep going? just about all of the inspiration is all gone. what do i do? Geeky2 Posted on Wednesday, September 6, 2000 - 1:41 pm:    Artgal: I don't usually do night scenes, but was in a class YEARS ago (oils) and we did a night scene. It was a Dalhart Windbert type thing, and Ican't remember exactly, but we used a blue-greeny color, then yellow ochre for highlights, almost a monochrome type things using deep blues & light yellowish tones. That's probably not much help, but you probably can't use a lot of color, and it almost has to be a value study. We had a lot of detail, like trees & leaves, and grass, and water sparkling. What color are you trying to do? Maybe if you simplify it and find some colors you feel good about...it isn't the easiest thing to start on. You cna do it. Can you find a photo or print where someone else has done one? Good luck! Geeky2 Posted on Wednesday, September 6, 2000 - 1:48 pm:    Mike: Have you tried inks, since you love drawing so much? I'll bet you would do well with ink drawings, and maybe ink washes, even some watercolor and ink. I don't really like to draw, although I've studied it and drawn all of my life. If that doesn't appeal, sell the cymbals on ebay, then get you three primary colors of paint that you want (if oil, you will also need white, maybe brown or black) then learn to mix and paint with those. It would be kind of a shame to cover up your drawings if you like them so much. What about colored pencils?? I've been practicing watercolors (Greek to me!) because I have a class coming up. Mine are very amateurish! I may have to go back to acrylics or oils to keep from going nuts. Mike King Posted on Thursday, September 7, 2000 - 12:14 pm:    Geeky, good to hear from you! The cymbal deal is done & my check is in the mail-(hopefully)- I've already filled out my order form for a set of oils. What I'm doing is, I'm ordering the exact palette from my old Taubes book. There are about 16 colors. He gives this exercise where you size some paper and mix dozens of combinations. His philosophy is to use as few colors as possible to obtain the desired effect. (I know this is real basic stuff, but I'm just starting with this painting business.) He says mixing four colors (besides black or white) would be rare. He recommends keeping it to 2 or 3. His idea is to get the beginner familiarizing himself with the paints while not trying to represent anything. This is going to be expensive, I know, but it seems to me a good initial exercise. Any thoughts? Yes, eventually I want to try ink drawing and watercolors. I'm always seeing watercolor work that just blows me away! For some reason, I thought you were a watercolorist- good luck with your class! geeky2 Posted on Thursday, September 7, 2000 - 12:25 pm:    Mike: I started in oils years ago, studied and painted for years in Houston. Allergic to mediums-may start using the water-mixable oils, but am mainly concentrating on learning watercolor at this time. I'm also sticking to a few colors at a time, 2 or 3. Oils (tubes) will last a good while unless your are painting thick, and on paper, you wouldn't probably. Are you sure he said paper? Good luck. Mike King Posted on Thursday, September 7, 2000 - 9:31 pm:    Geeky,-yes, for the exercise, he suggests paper sized with cooking gelatin as a cheap alternative to canvas. (I may end up using something like 1/4" plywood with some kind of primer.) These are just color mixing exercises and will look like a bunch of swatches. He suggests each combination be labled and the whole thing kept for future ref- erence. (Sounds reasonable to me) Each combination which he provides will start with an untinted sample , then working to the side from that, white is added. There's about 80 combinations that he gives! This could get expensive, but I'm going to try to get it done with as little paint as poss- ible. Want to have some left to try a picture! I'm ordering lots of white! Geeky2 Posted on Friday, September 8, 2000 - 7:06 pm:    I practice with color all the time, and values. Only now it's watercolor for me. Who knows later on. We also used to practice on tracing paper, because oil won't soak through. Or those canvas sheets in a tablet. It's a good way to learn. artgal Posted on Thursday, September 14, 2000 - 8:25 pm:    Geeky2- well, i first mixed back and ultramarine blue (by the way, i'm working in oils i just really liked the title of the discussion). i really liked that color. then i mixed a yellow with burnt umber and a little white to get the sand color. i have put in some blue tones into the sand and i put a little green in the water. i used a mixture of white and a yellow for the moon and reflections on the water. i guess i could look for a picture of a night scene on the water. anyway, thanks for your help. i'm moving this weekend and school is starting soon so i haven't had time to work lately. once i move and school starts i'll have more time, hopefully. thanks again. Geeky2 Posted on Friday, September 15, 2000 - 6:20 pm:    Hey everyone! artgal: Sounds like you have it figured out! Good luck! Well, I'm procrastinating again! Had to get ready for company, putting my art stuff out of reach of toddlers, now have to get it all back out. Enjoyed the visitors, but it takes me awhile to get back into the routine. Hope everyone out there is painting! smithmo Posted on Friday, September 15, 2000 - 8:18 pm:    Hi Geeky2, it's talllanky! It sounds like you had a good time with your son. I hope they did not wear you out. I tried the flower tutorial you sent me and trashed it. I guess I should try the barn, but I am feeling like I can't do it. Do you ever feel like that? I know it is psycho, but lately everything I try fails. Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, September 16, 2000 - 11:00 pm:    Hi tallanky! I was wondering how the demos were going. Try the barn. I doubt if I could do the flower, either! My painting is always an "if" these days. Strictly flyin' by the seat of my pants! Good visit with family, now to get back to painting. (For anyone interested in some good demos online, we are talking about the George Simmons demos.) Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, September 16, 2000 - 11:11 pm:    For all of the procrastinators: First I bought the book, "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron. (CJAS has it)It is a series of exercises to get your creativity flowing, and it is pretty interesting.(hasn't worked on me yet)Then...I joined a Botanical garden near my home, that has benches and trails, etc., just waiting to be sketched. Hoping this will spark something in me and get me painting again. Kukana Posted on Wednesday, September 20, 2000 - 7:52 pm:    Hey Fear and Procrastionation crowd! Well folks,I complained a while back that if I don't paint enough I feel like I loose my touch and it takes a couple of nasty flops of paintings to get me back in the grove. Well I leave tomorrow for a workshop in Taos with Frank Webb and I haven't painting much in weeks. I think I psych myself out more thinking about it than it really is a problem. That old Fear and Procrastination thing popping up!!! Gee, why do we do this!!! Guess I'll take some books to look at on the plane to inspire me. PS I just talked to Carrie Stuart Parks..She giving a workshop over near Seattle but she sends her regards! J.A. Posted on Thursday, September 21, 2000 - 7:41 pm:    Hi everyone. It's me again. I said I would NOT take on any more commissions for awhile, and...... here I go with 5 MORE!!!! They all have a delivery date before 01 Dec. At this rate, I'll NEVER get enough of "my own" done for a spring show. HELP!!! HOW DO YOU SAY NO AND KEEP YOUR PATRONS!!!!! Mike King Posted on Friday, September 22, 2000 - 11:36 am:    Just wanted to say hi! to the procrastinators.. (or is it fear?-ha!) I'm waiting for my order to arrive from Joe's (oil colors,mediums,brushes, canvas,etc.) What I arrived at for a surface to learn to mix on is just cardboard panels cut from boxes & primed with commercial wood primer (latex) Can anyone tell me why this won't work? Then I plan on moving to the canvas-Yikes!! Wish me luck! Geeky,Mermaid, & others I've chatted with,how are you? Geeky2 Posted on Friday, September 22, 2000 - 8:02 pm:    Hi gang, Mike, I don't see why that won't work. No need to spend a lot on practicing your mixing. You can paint on almost anything with oils and acrylics. You don't really care if your mixing swatches are archival, do you? I saw someone on TV demonstrate, and his palette was plain old box cardboard. I know you are excited to begin your oil-journey, and loads of luck and fun to you! I enjoyed my first beginner WC class this week. The teacher said I wouldn't learn much since I could paint, and it was nice of her, but I did. I started out with books, but doing the basics with a teacher does help, if you can. Geeky2 Posted on Friday, September 22, 2000 - 8:09 pm:    J.A.: Well, you must be doing something right. Try to enjoy it, and put yourself into your commissions. I don't know what the subjects are, but put a secret object in them to make it more fun. Or some of your favorite colors. Do you have to paint strictly by photos or can you do your own ideas with them? Mike: Also, a lot of people used to use plywood or found objects for palettes. After all, there are wood palettes. Mary Smith Posted on Saturday, September 23, 2000 - 5:53 pm:    Everyone: I need help painting a black dog in watercolor. He is all black except for a small spot on his chest(white). What colors can I mix to make his essence shine through? Tks, Mary S. Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Sunday, September 24, 2000 - 12:27 am:    Veeeerrry difficult, Mary. But do-able. I have painted dobes, Newfies, Pulis, Rottes, Labs, border collies, chows and so on in watercolor. Now, keep in mind I work wet on wet and ooooozle my way to highlights. Use a mixture of Indigo and Sepia. PRACTICE! LEAVE the highlights. Wet the paper and place thick paint in the darkest areas. Let the paint flow toward the highlights. Use Paynes Gray VERY sparingly. Not much advice, but I can't do much more without grabbing that brush from your hand and yelling, "LIKE this!" -Carrie Melissa Posted on Monday, October 2, 2000 - 9:08 pm:    Mary, I just finished a watercolor of a black and white bird (an Andean condor). It was very difficult, but I used a mixture of ultramarine blue with burnt sienna and also ultramarine with burnt umber for the black. I varied the amount of blue so that much of it actually has a very blue tint which keeps it from looking dead and flat. This was my first attempt with a black bird or animal and it was challenging. I'm pretty happy with how it turned out. I think it's really important to have good lighting on the subject to get some highlights and shadows when it is mostly black. I didn't use any black paint but some of the areas are very black. I also did the most strongly highlighted areas with a sort of mauve mixture (I don't remember what I paints I used there) so they really stand out. jandrle Posted on Wednesday, October 4, 2000 - 4:02 pm:    I have been reading the message boards and find some of the input interesting. I don't procrastinate but on occasion feel blocked. If I paint anyway, the painting rarely turns out. Shows and commissions are the best motivators... that and being able to buy something you want or need once the painting is finished. I have no sense of when a painting will turn out to be magical... get what I mean? If I am working on two at one time, one can be frameable, will even sell, the other can be magical to look at. Hummmmmmmmmmm RMoore Posted on Wednesday, October 4, 2000 - 6:37 pm:    Hope I'm not repeating someone else's suggestions but wading through this whole discussion is TAKING AWAY FROM MY PAINTING TIME!! My favorite avoidance technique is cleaning up my studio. I mean, how can I be expected to create anything in the middle of such a mess?? This activity will effectively kill at least 2 or 3 hours. Seriously, there is a book called "Fearless Creating: A Step-by-Step Guide to Starting and Completing Your Work of Art" by Eric Maisel (PenguinPutnam Inc.) that really addresses these concerns. Definitely worth a look. Terry Posted on Thursday, October 5, 2000 - 8:03 am:    I think most creative endevours are substantially the same when it comes to actually taking part in the experience. My creative energies these days are primarily musical. At 49 I began to play the fiddle. This after learning the Mandolin at 47. Of course I had played the guitar for years (since high school) but the fiddle that late in life. Anyway, I try to give the fiddle 20 or 30 minutes every evening. Sometimes I take off right away and what comes out sounds good to me ( a great start on a new painting for instance) sometimes it is rather ragged at the beginning but if I stick with it, the sound improves and by the time I am finished I feel as though I have had a good workout. Sometimes however, the sound is really not coming and instead of pressing on through, I just open the case and end my practice and find something else to fill that creative need. The secret is in knowing when to press through and when to hang it up for the evening and knowing that the next time will be better. You will be fresher and will most likely enjoy it more. theBrush Posted on Thursday, October 5, 2000 - 7:21 pm:    I secretly title the workshops I teach 'Adult Fear Management'. Somewhere about the the third grade each of us was introduced to judging and comparing. Rot! I paint for myself, period. Ruin paper, waste paint, and remember every turkey gets you that much closer to Thanksgiving. Mary Posted on Thursday, October 5, 2000 - 9:10 pm:    Thanks, Melissa and Carrie. I have your ideas and will try them out when I get ready to attempt the painting. I am putting it of, because I can't get my mind around it. I will let you know how it turns out! Mary apiper Posted on Thursday, October 5, 2000 - 10:04 pm:    Mary, I don't know about the rest of you artists, but when I am `not in the mood', I get out the materials...sometime, just wetting the paper with water gets me started. If not, I hang it up for awhile. Sometimes it is better to wait. For me, spending time just observing my world is a good thing. I find that when I do go back to painting I am refreshed and full of inspired ideas. Guess my subconscious artist cup needs time to refill. Mary Posted on Friday, October 6, 2000 - 7:20 pm:    That is true apiper, but that is not the case with the black dog. He is mine and I had a desire to attempt to paint his "portrait", but I have been working on other things. I have been working on easier things to prepare myself for the difficult challenges. Does that make any sense? Mary apiper Posted on Saturday, October 7, 2000 - 7:43 am:    Yep, makes perfect sense. In training for the challange. Art Room Posted on Saturday, October 14, 2000 - 7:26 am:    what a find! was searching for information on technique (oil on gessoed masonite) and FOUND artists!! procrastinating/fearing/rationalizing etc..just like me. Still need some tech.info, but must express my appreciation for everyone's comments that somehow make me feel just wonderful! birds of a feather?? thanks to CJ even m Geeky2 Posted on Saturday, October 14, 2000 - 7:42 pm:    Hi Artroom: Things have slowed down on the board, school starting, etc., but we are out here, still struggling, but painting. Welcome! Lindsay Posted on Monday, October 16, 2000 - 10:53 pm:    Hey there geeky 2. I finally feel inspired.It's been a month or so since I finished work on my studio and now it's nearly midnight in my part of Michigan and I have decided to get out of bed and paint! Very strange, this has only happened to me a couple of times in my life! I have to complete some new work for two upcoming showsand now I'm ready to rock&roll! I think I would like to work in mixed media with the figure. Life sized. Yeah, that sounds like fun. Too bad it costs so much to work big. How am I going to frame them? Oh, well. Guess I'll figure that out when I get finished. I hope to get back to you guys later when I am finished. I'm finally through my period of procrastination!!!! I hope you all get a jolt of energy and creativity like this. Go out there and use those talents bestowed upon you!!(: earlk Posted on Wednesday, October 18, 2000 - 10:41 am:    Getting started in painting or drawing is a lot like kissing....YOU GOTTA MAKE THE FIRST MOVE! Those who say they don't have time or have kids or other interferences will remain amateurs. You create because you have an itch that can only be satisfied one way. You create because someone has approved of what you do. You create because God has made you a sensitive observant person and you want to communicate your experience. You create because the mechanics of drawing and painting makes you fe Raven Posted on Monday, October 23, 2000 - 2:43 pm:    Procrastination...long word...and fits me very well..i guess I'm afraid of messing the painting up...have a painting that's been sitting for over a week now...love the subject matter..have found that being in class under pressure works..but outher painters to talk to inspires to continue and feels better....as a means to get started again! A fellow art student at my college told me about this sight...so very glad I've found it..and this board to post on ..so much information...so happy to find you people of art. Geeky2 Posted on Monday, October 23, 2000 - 8:03 pm:    Hi Raven: Sorry that the board is so empty at this time. It does help to share with other artists. If you check back to the summer archives, you will find that we all have gone through the same thing. It seems we all go through some type of "block" at one time or another, or at least I do. There are some other good art sites online, too. Try searching watercolor or artist, etc. Mike King Posted on Tuesday, October 24, 2000 - 12:46 pm:    Welcome, Raven, and hello Geeky! Yes, Raven, this is a great site, but yes, posting has been slow lately-Stay with it though, there's some great people here,I've learned a lot in a short time from some very knowledgeable artists who are very generous. Geeky, I'm still working on my painting, and over all, I'm fairly pleased, keeping in mind it's my first effort. I still think I'm going to like working in oil, but of course this first effort has taught me if nothing else, I've got a lot to learn!! I know I'm probably breaking every rule in the book! When you consider all the various properties of each pigment,drying prop- erties,tinting strength, relationship with other colors,etc., etc.!! Whew!! It's a challenge to say the least but I'm having fun, & we all know thats important! I'm definately going to find some more instructional material and hit the books but I think I'll keep painting while I read! Happy painting! kate08 Posted on Sunday, October 29, 2000 - 4:02 pm:    I really enjoyed going through all the postings on procrastination, since I majored in it. Have been putting off doing any painting for over a year. I just build up a ton of anxiety over the whole process. It helped me to break down a painting into stages and to not worry about the next step until the previous one is complete. And thanks to whoever mentioned painting to music...that helps big time! (I may trying having a glass of wine while I work too). I'm actually working in oils now, but haven't found anything like your site. Geeky2 Posted on Sunday, October 29, 2000 - 11:28 pm:    Hi everyone, Keep painting, Mike. Some famous artist said that he learned from every mistake. Boy, I must have learned a lot over the years! Besides, if it looks good to you at this point, and makes you happy, it's not a mistake. You will get all the other stuff gradually. I had stopped painting for many years, and now trying a new medium that does not like me at all! But I'll learn. Just hang in there and keep painting. Sometimes all I can do is play with colors, or another fine artist said that when she was at a standstill, she makes abstract backgrounds of several colors, then later she paints something on them. I suppose the thing is, just keep trying. Good luck everyone! campsart Posted on Monday, October 30, 2000 - 8:30 am:    I'm not sure it's either. Personally, I believe it's savoring the moment. I love looking at blank canvases and thinking about its potential. A portrait, landscape or whatever the new composition may be. I find the thought of beginning as extremely exciting. Sometimes, it seems, that I'm lingering in the moment. Yes, other obligations are real. It does seem more rewarding for me to try and eliminate immediate commitments so I can sit down and relax in front of the easel. Just think of how exciting it is, the feeling one has just before applying a loaded brush to a, forgive me for my choosing the word, "virgin" canvas or panel. I revel in the sheer anticipation. Mike King Posted on Wednesday, November 22, 2000 - 12:06 pm:    Hello my friends- Haven't posted in a while and just want to wish everyone a happy holiday! I'm still fairly pleased with my first canvas, but have been letting it "rest" for a few weeks. One final assault should do it. Sounds rather like procrastination huh? Ha! Geeky2 Posted on Friday, November 24, 2000 - 5:51 am:    Hi Mike! I've been busy too. Good to hear you are painting! Happy holidays to you and everyone! Carrie Stuart Parks Posted on Saturday, November 25, 2000 - 2:22 pm:    Hi guys! Back and running. I did finish the ten watercolors for the trip to Israel--sold eight of them with three orders. I didn't sell the ones where we did not visit the site. Israel was great with no tourists. Hmmmmm, wonder why??? Now I have a gallery opening in a week. That means I will have to STOP WRITING and messing around and get to work. Hence I'm still lingering here... Hope you all and your family had a great Thanksgiving and many blessings this year. My latest blessing, in a host of others, is I signed a contract with Northlight Books to publish my drawing book on faces. (yea!!!) the Lord is good to me! -Carrie (full of thanksgiving and turkey leftovers) geeky2 Posted on Saturday, November 25, 2000 - 5:15 pm:    Hi Carrie! Will be sure to look for your "Faces" book. Congratulations on everything. If I EVER finish something that might sell, I'll get your "Promoting" book! Happy days to you. Jean chickadee Posted on Tuesday, January 16, 2001 - 7:15 pm:    This is the first time on the board, and I have skimmed through some of the earlier posts, and they all hit home. Right now, I have been painting watercolors for 3 years, and have recently hit a wall, where I can't seem to paint anything. I start something, and it just sits there. HELP! I am so frustrated. I have so many ideas in my head, that when I go to put them down and paint, its gone. How do you suggest I get over this slump. I try to read, sketch and plan, but nothing seems to come to me. I love watercolors, along with all other types of medias, but I just can't seem to settle down and produce. Any advice out there for me? airbrushman Posted on Tuesday, January 16, 2001 - 8:14 pm:    AHHH chickadee, Im an old hand at approach avoidance. I find what works for me is to work on a problem not a painting. recently I got enamored with cumulo nimbus clouds in watercolors. I must have done about fifty skies in mixes of indigo and viridian and crimson touches, I worked wet, i worked dry, I worked wet and daubing with kleenex. I have a whole bunch of solutions to the sky problems, and also I now have a ready made batch of skies awaiting pictures to go beneath. Just a thought. Try to isolate your problems and produce a plethora of solutions as mini works. The neat thing was this whole procedure broke me ouit of a three week slump and Im back at the board waaay behind on assignments. artisticjoy Posted on Sunday, January 21, 2001 - 1:45 am:    This board is great. I have been reading all the great information that is being shared. I have found out a few things that I didn't know. All your advice and helpful hints are just great. I don't know if it's just the time of year. But its hard for me to sit down and get motivated. Just reading what everyone has to say is inspirational and hopefully will get me motivated. Thanks sailpkr Posted on Sunday, January 21, 2001 - 12:53 pm:    Okay - add one more to the pile ---------I spent all my free hours in the last 2 months!!!!setting up a website for myself - that is in between 40 hr work week +6 driving time, single parenting 2 teenagers (left from 4), house, car, dog, etc...,,,now that I have a website (sold one painting on ebay)---it's time to get back to painting....but noooooooo- I'D rather VACUUM!!!!! not really - but I find myself doing it anyway. I've got a friend an hour away who has a group - I can't do that - no time...but I hear it's a great motivator.....anyone in the S.E. Mass area?......... Maria Mann Posted on Friday, March 9, 2001 - 10:39 pm:    For all us procrastinators... I believe that painting cannot be left to those idyllic times when we have an visual epiphany and see those images in our heads. I have found that the less you paint, the less imagination you have. And the less imagination you have....the less you paint. Some of my artist friends used to tell me to draw every day, just to draw. I do now, and even if it's just scribblings, to keep my imagination active. I used to spend lots of money on the latest products, feeling sure that this would help me create a "new and important work". I'd get home lay them all out and then go into the living room and "think". Yeah, right. Now I know that unless you start using all that stuff, whether it turns out right or not, you will never have a brilliant thought. Three great books that have helped me -- "No More Second Hand Art" by Peter London. A brilliant book. You will find yourself nodding yes! yes! yes! all through it. Also "The Blank Canvas" by a photographer/artist who talks about the fear of messing up a canvas or a roll of film. Can't remember her name, but it's easily found on the net. Lastly, "On Not Being Able to Paint", by Joanna Field. Reading these may keep you from painting (for a little while) but they'll make you want to head for the paints. Lastly, I truly believe that all creative people suffer from unusual highs and lows. The lows can make you curl up into a ball and not want to move. But I've also found that the best way to 'uncurl' from that ball is to put on some beautiful music and allow yourself the joy of painting. cheers to you all. Maria D.Finley Posted on Saturday, March 10, 2001 - 9:38 am:    Hey Maria, I agree! It's kind of like getting "fired". You just have to go out and do it again!!! Funny...I found Prozac works for those ups and downs!!LOL Oma Posted on Saturday, March 10, 2001 - 11:23 am:    My problem is the reverse of all you. I procrastinate doing the daily maintenace things and will paint all day if I don't make myself get up and do the laundry or plan a meal. Doesn't sound as if I belong on this page but thought I might offer a suggestion or two about procrastination. I think part of it is age related. I am great-grandmother and realize I do not have as much time as I once had to do what I want. And I spent years of taking care of others' needs to the neglect of my own. DON't do it! Remember that in order to do your best for others you need to take care of yourself. I have just recently started taking wc lessons and wish I had done so years ago. I now try to work things out this way: I put a load of wash in and go tape my paper to my board. Then I apply whatever under wash I've decided on. While it is drying I put the washed clothes in the dryer and start a new load. Same thing with kitchen chores. I don't make the bed; it will only get messed up again at night. If I get company I close the bedroom door.Right now we are remodelling our house and have workmen all over the place. When my husband is at work I have to supervise them and the interruptions bother me. It is undoubtedly harder for you who are still raising a family. Delegating chores might help. Why should you put their clean clothes away? Let them do it - then they know where every thing is and are responsible for their appearance. And no it does not reflect on you if they look like slobs - aas long as you don't. And who cares what the other people think as long as you and your family are happy and functioning. And you'll be happier if you are taking care of your needs (within reason) and so will they in the long run. I sit in my "family" room in a comfortable chair with a couple of tray tables to work on. This will change when I get my sewing/hobby room back from the alterations it is going through. In the evenings I may still work in the family room to be with my husband who will be either on his computer or watching PBS. Or both! Enough said I have not picked up a pencil or brush all morning! patinsc Posted on Saturday, March 10, 2001 - 12:36 pm:    Wow you all do that too? Right now I have three painting due for shows all around March30 and what am I doing? Sitting here reading this board. I seem to work better under pressure. When I know I have to have a painting ready I'll work all day and into the night. Strangely enough those are the paintings that not only get into the shows but win awards. Go figure. My favorite instructor once told us to paint every day even if you only have five minutes put some paint on the paper. Go "slap on some paint" and walk away. Or lay down a wash or two and put it away. One day that paper will look like something and you will have a start!. i work mostly on non-representational pieces so this method works very well for me. I have some starts that I have had for years. Occasionally I pull them out and paint on them. If they develop into something -Great. if not I put them away until the next time. Then there is always the back. Or better yet collage. This instructor says "never throw anything away" "there is no such thing as a bad painting. Cover it with gesso and get out the acrylics. fink Posted on Saturday, March 10, 2001 - 7:42 pm:    Hey I hear ya!!!! If I don't paint everyday, the day doesn't seem complete. I could ignore the dishes, laundry, and food and concentrate on painting. My husband doesn't really like that though. When the kids were growing up, a clean house was veeeeery important - now that they are gone, painting is more important. The best thing by far is that when I paint and really get into it, I am not hungry either. I paint with a friend one night a week. We seem to share the same thoughts on painting. The last couple months we have been feeling low and didn't think that we were doing well at painting. Luckily we can squash those thoughts in each other. Winter blaw I guess. apiper Posted on Saturday, March 10, 2001 - 9:00 pm:    When I'm hot to paint I do my chores while I am waiting for the painting to dry. I must get away from the painting or I WILL NOT WAIT LONG ENOUGH FOR IT TO DRY. I spend a lot of time painting because I am not a television person and I can't garden in the snow. LPMullins Posted on Sunday, March 11, 2001 - 8:17 pm:    WOW!!! I didn't realize there were so many others who actually procrastinate from something they love to do! My problem isn't fear... I get side-tracked really easily. If there's something else that I know needs to be done, I'll go work on that instead of my artwork even though I know I'm getting paid for my artwork and the other thing can wait. I think I have too many oars in the water & am trying to get it all done at once... I feel that maybe if I get everything else done, I'll feel more relaxed and at ease to sit and paint. I like to finish one thing before I start something else, and if I know I don't have enough time to finish something, I won't start it...including a painting that I'm working on. I know I'm not going to be able to finish it before I have to leave for work, so I don't even start! Sometimes I have a hard time finding a good stopping point to come back to. Maybe a solution to this problem is to pace myself and decide on how much I want to get done on the painting before I have to stop, and then stop when I complete that phase...like just do the background for now and stop, or shade in a certain area and stop...instead of trying to finish the whole thing in one sitting. Sometimes I get overwhelmed at the whole picture, but if it's just a small part that I need to accomplish, I will be less intimidated by it and even be eager to pick up the brush and get to work in order to finish that one phase of the whole picture. Maybe I've been too hard on myself! Maybe I've been expecting too much of myself. Maybe I should try that "one step at a time" approach! LPMullins Posted on Sunday, March 11, 2001 - 8:20 pm:    On second thought...maybe it is a fear after all... fear of not being able to accomplish everything in one sitting. Does that make any sense? Kukana Posted on Sunday, March 11, 2001 - 10:56 pm:    Nothing stops human progression more than fear and getting hooked on CJAS discussion board! I actually have moved my new computer into the art studio so when I need a diversion I can chat with you all!! "Paint when you can, stop when you're blocked" is my motto. Try not to take art so seriously. Remember why we do this and why we sell them. We do this because we love it and we sell so we can buy more cool art stuff!!!(She with the most coolest toys wins...and Carrie is surely beating us all!!) I just love art...

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