Thursday, August 18, 2011

A Watery Departure

Apparently I'm not focused or industrious enough to have quilty things to post about regularly.
So, here is something else I obsess over.

Watercolors!  Once or twice a year I drag out my paints, get all inspired and sign up for a class (did this a couple of weeks ago).

Invariably, things don't go well.  My work of art is, well, not a work of art.  I'm not happy.  I quit.  Maybe this year will be different.  I need to either learn to paint or give my supplies to someone who will.

So, I've actually finished one painting (this one) that I like fairly well.  I'm well aware of it's shortcomings, but I'm calling it done & I've moved on to the next one.

True to form, the picture I'm working on right now isn't going well, but I think I've learned that you have to keep going.  There's an ugly duckling stage and you just have to keep painting and sometimes you get it right.  If not, you have scrap paper.  At least I think I'm learning that.

If my readership was above the occasional low single digit, I don't think I'd have the nerve to post this. Comments and constructive criticism would be welcome (as long as they are kind).

Back to quilting or something fibery next time.


5 comments:

Elisa Black said...

I've "stopped" painting and drawing b/c I'm too uptight/judgemental/focused on the outcome-- kudos to you for signing up for a class and trying!! I think your watercolor is great. I remember the days when I was younger and would just draw and paint to my heart's content-- I see it now in my daughter, who just turned 9, and wonder where all the "judging" and inhibition came in [for me] to ruin it all. Don't be like me-- go for it--it's a process. Now, I only "sketch" so as to avoid a "product" and just enjoy the process; without expectation. You did a great job!! Glad you posted!!

Jennifer said...

i don't know jack about painting or drawing, but i think you did a great job in the color variation and shape of the leaves.

The Vegetarian Hunter said...

I think you are being too hard on yourself! Watercolor is the hardest form of painting out there. People who do watercolor full time can make amazing works - your painting for a watercolor is fricken fantastic! Seriously, I'm a Tausus, we tell it like it is, and this painting is really good. You only do this twice a year so no its not a Monet, but its is really good. Do not give up your paints, if you love it, even if its only twice a year - then keep them. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff. Who cares if its 100% awesome - did you have fun making it? I find quite often if I am feeling overwhelmed to make it perfect and I think my painting will not turn out, it doesn't! Have a glass of wine, put on some music that moves you - then give it another go. Or be lazy like me, try acrylic - you make a mistake - you just paint over it! HA HA

Shocking Hocking said...

wow - this is fabulous - love the colours - you should frame this

Kristen, pajama mama said...

oh, it's beautiful. You are way to hard on yourself.
I'm here visiting via WIP Wednesday, but am impressed (and appreciate) that there is more to you than quilting-even though we can both agree, quilting is pretty awesome.