My little atelier is definitely in use, and it’s the best feeling. My kind of medicine is to create and transform, and it felt even better when the task was a commissioned painting. First time I’ve got an order for an original, and it made my heart skip a beat. You can probably relate to the feeling that others value what you do or make, and it makes me very humble and filled of energy. And now I’ve got one more to do too, so it’s amazing! Don’t be afraid to contact me if you are interested in hearing more about it or ask questions.
This painting was ordered with two guidelines: the size 150 cm x 80 cm and “do not use red”. I could manage that! But where to start?! What to make, what to do? And the day I started I did not know what I was going to paint. I don’t plan much if I don’t have to, but mostly I keep to my daily structure though (soon more about it!). So this time I ended up challenging myself – try to make waves for the first time! Maybe a crazy idea, but since I’m so inspired by emotions and water it felt natural to give it a try.
I found the colours I wanted to use, and then found myself sitting on the floor having no idea which paintbrush to use. I had like twenty to choose from, but no one seemed like a magic wand that could make a lively ocean on my canvas. I regretted my choice about waves, but I would be so disappointed and irritable if I gave up before I even tried. So I decided to use my fingers, and leave all the confusing brushes behind. And I gave myself some simple rules: don’t think, don’t even consider perfection or strive for realism (and seriously don’t ever try to paint a ship!).
So I only used my fingers (they’re still a little blue and green) and made some finishing touches with a sponge. Then I had to sit and watch the waves for a long time, wondering what to do with the rest. There was much white space left… So I made skies and stormy weather (and sunshine!) the way I felt like making it, and I think it turned out good. I couldn’t possibly let someone hang something on their wall with my name on that I wasn’t pleased about. That’s just how it is. In the end I had to touch up the waves a little, and I added some gold dots. Gold and mid dark/ dark blue and greens looks fab, I think. Gold was not a plan in my not existing plan, but it added some “it”, and I even signed it in gold.
Just so it’s mentioned: this painting will be available in my artwork shop plotted on canvas (and yes, it’s a part of the deal with the buyer of this original 😉 ). Enjoy your weekend lovely followers! Oh, I just realized I haven’t been giving the painting a name! I should do that before it will be picked up Sunday…
Just stunning! I’m awed by your ability to paint something you’ve never done and to have executed it so well!!! You also have inspired me to keep plugging away at what I love to do and not worry that I won’t be good enough or the finished product won’t be either. Keep doing exactly what you’re doing – so inspiring!
Hi Janet! …and comments like your keeps me inspired, how wonderful! I’m so glad you wrote this words to me and if can inspire you to keep up doing what you love without concern for “being good enough”, I feel honoured! Have nice weekend!
Hold on – you’ve never painted waves before?! Wherever you are getting you inspiration and guidance from, keeping trusting it because it’s steering you well! This is such an emotive piece. I’m in awe.
Hi Peggy! I want you to know I feel both very happy and humble of your comment, thank you so much! My heart is steering me, and I want to keep it up, even though I have to be a little braver than I think I am some times 😉 Wish you a lovely week.
What a wonderful painting! I really like the whispers and rage from the waves (That’s what I read from them). One question: Do you make the canvas yourself or do you by it from somewhere? Also I love your “färgvärld” in your photos/life, mm dark and blueish!
Hi! Thanks a lot, so interesting to hear about the whispers and rage you see! Before I answer your question I would like to say that I have had a look at your blog, a very quick one right now. But then I saw that this was interesting, personal, different. I want to read, and I want you to know! So, the canvas: I make them myself. Well, read: my husband makes the frames and stretch the canvas (linen), and then i prep it and start to paint 😉 I think it would have been very expensive to buy them, and I would probably never get the right size either! All the best
It warms my heart to hear that you had a glance at my blog. Thank you so much fot the answer, now I just have to learn how to do it myself!
Maybe there is some kind of tutorial at the internet, or maybe I should make one when my husband makes them!? Any thoughts? And where can I see your artwork? 🙂 Hope you have a good day today!