A blank canvas can often be intimidating, artist and non-artist alike. I think I can safely say that we have all been there. I personally prefer to start most works, with the exception of fluid acrylics, with a coat of titanium white and dark titanium white. Sometimes, I even add a little gray. I apply everything with a large brush or palette knife to give the painting that bit of texture and movement before I even really begin to start the real work.

One of the most common misconceptions of art and that of the artist, is that a masterpiece is created within just a few hours. While, many may get lucky a time or two and have this happen, it is most often not the case. Believe me! If it were that easy, everyone could do it. Most of my painting have multiple layers. The layers themselves should communicate with each other. They should flow together creating a cohesive piece, not work against one another. I have been known to work on pieces for a couple days or even months depending on the paint and how long it can take to dry or how much time I have to give. Sometimes, you just need to walk away and come back at a later time. Artist block is a real thing, it's just like writer's block. I will cover more tips on that in a later blog.

After, I have painted my base layer I let it dry completely for a day or two. When I come back to the painting I will often see lines or a flow that I have created with the base colors that I want to work with. That's one thing I love about abstract painting. A simple wavy line can create the basis for a whole painting. I love the idea of letting the paint guide me, 90% of the time I start out with an idea in my head and by the time the painting is done it looks nothing like the original idea. I am the type of artist who just lets the creativity flow while I paint and if I am not feeling that, then I walk away and find inspiration elsewhere.

So, go ahead try the base layer of paint and see where it gets you. Does it help you or inspire you? Let me know...