Every so often I find myself ‘out of focus’ with my work. Meaning I’m painting a lot but not actually producing a lot of finished work. (Finishing a painting gives me an amazing feeling…sort of a natural high. But when I’m not focused, I tend to float between too many canvases….and get into a pattern where I can’t decide if a piece is done or not. So I set it aside only to come back and fiddle with it later. I’ve found that less is usually more and too much fiddling does a painting more harm than good. Usually if I stay focused and trust my gut, I just know when I’m done. ) Anyway – So I’ll set goals or leave post–it notes around my house or studio, encouraging follow through and reminders of how awesome it feels to sign a completed piece. Most times this helps me to get back on track – sometimes not. I’m in the ‘sometimes not’ category right now, so I’ve issues myself a challenge. I am going to complete 10 paintings in 5 weeks. There…I said it…I’ve committed! Ten pieces in that period of time is a BIG stretch for me! I did this last year as well but fell two short of my goal. (Hey, it was still great progress and it’s always good to challenge yourself!) But, I’m going for round two. Unfortunately I can’t count this one because I signed it yesterday.
The Long Way Home by Debra Houston