Since I didn't have my painting gear with me while I was vacationing in Washington, I got creative with my camera instead. In fact, I became so energized and inspired from my trip that I'm planning to try my hand at mixed media and clay, too. Fun!
Yet, some people have told me that I have to stay focused in order to master painting, which is why I've shied away from other media for many years. So now I want to take a poll: Do you think it's better to focus on one medium or to explore a variety?
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I think it took me longer to find the right medium to create in since I tried several things first. But, I do think in my case that experimentation helped me create a unique approach to mixed media and helped me define my style.
ReplyDeleteIt can be important to follow different paths if you have diverse interests. If you really KNOW you are a pastel artist or oil painter--go for it! Then, you are right, you'll master your chosen medium sooner.
I think exploration keeps the creative juices flowing and opens new worlds of possibilities but I've started to try to put a hold on new hobbies till I've given my current one a chance. Your photography is fantastic!
ReplyDeleteI think exploring other media is a great idea. I think it can help you discover new things about your favored media, get you out of the box and challenge your creativity. Kind of freshen things up.
ReplyDeleteI agree, although I am a metal artist, I still do the occasional oil painting and also try out a few collages once in a while. Trying out different media actually helps me come up with ideas for my enameling. I think mixed media might actually give you some ideas for relief work in your favored media as well, you never know. I hope you post your experiments here, looking forward to them :)
ReplyDeleteThese are lovely. What a great trip you must have had. Lots of inspiration in these textures and values, etc.
ReplyDeleteI didn't answer your poll - I was so inspired by your photos! I think exploration is a great idea. I tend to be focused only on creating perfect paintings all the time and sometimes that pressure gets to be too much and then failure follows. Its important to let your brain switch gears, to try other things, which are very likely to inspire your favorite calling, or give you the push you need to find a new love.
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