Spontaneous Planning

I like to talk probably way too much about my art projects. Recently, I happened to conversationally mention to a friend that I had to plan my next painting. Blah, blah, blah, but surprisingly he was actually paying attention and seriously, listening to me babble. Of course he had to prove it by commenting, "I thought art was supposed to be spontaneous". That simple comment got me to thinking. Again.

I enjoy spending lots of time picking a subject, choosing a medium, playing around with color combinations, and ruminating on compositions. It is what I do when I am supposed to really be paying attention to something way more important. Like the traffic signals on the road. But alas, this is one of the great escapes for me that I can do anywhere and anytime.

But maybe there is an oxymoron embedded here. How can the making of art be both thoughtful and spontaneous? All of these questions make me stop to ponder my own style and technique . While I think it has matured over the decades, becoming more expressive and unique, I am well aware that it still feels way too controlled. Bold and vibrant but yet stilted. How can that be? Sounds ironic I know and difficult to put into words. But it is what I always encourage children to do and with what I continue to struggle myself. Create without being afraid of making mistakes and not to worry about the results not being good enough. Enjoy the experience and relish the process. I guess like most things it is all about finding balance. Laborious practicing so that you can make it look effortless and easy. Spontaneous planning. LOL.

The little watercolor painting above illustrates spontaneous planning well. It is my interpretation of the old fashioned columbine flower. I lost myself in the colors while I worked hard to relax and let them dance.

One Love and Peace from the Quirky Artiste, y'all!