Friday, June 17, 2011

The art of over tweaking



I overworked this piece and its gone to mush, but that's ok.  It was more of an experiment than an important piece.  And I enjoyed the bright colours on what has been a very dull week weather-wise.  I don't dislike the piece, it just doesn't quite match the vision in my head and I know it doesn't make my own personal grade for something that I would offer up for sale to anyone.

What is it in me that keeps adding 'just a little more' and pushing a piece over the edge?  I wish that a big red light would flash and alarm bell would go off when the ultimate brush stroke went down so I'd know I'd reach the point of no return.  A bit like those top chef challenges...."ok, your time is up!  Put down your brushes and step away from your painting!'  Unfortunately, there isn't anything external that can help me decide the final point and its down to gut instinct to know when a piece is complete.

For now it will brighten up a corner of the studio and I'm off in search of new inspiration.  A trip to a glorious sandy beach earlier this week gave me lots of inspiration for more pieces.  Sand, rolling surf and rocks - heaven!

5 comments:

Ann said...

I like your use of color on this and hopefully it can be some inspiration for future pieces. But I so know what you mean - I often need some to tell me to step away from the painting!

Jo Castillo said...

Beautiful color and movement. Hopefully it will brighten you studio and the next piece.....

Anita said...

I love the colour in this. Isn't it exasperating when something doesn't come out the way it is in your head? I've tried to teach myself not to envisage a final picture as I inevitably end up disappointed and as a result 90% of my work ends up in the bin!

Jeanette Jobson said...

Its a fine line sometimes isn't it Ann?

Thanks Jo. Everything is a learning experience I believe.

Anita, its frustrating when you can't make your hand create what's in your head. But often that leads to something new and perhaps even better - or at least different - than what I'd planned.

Gary L. Everest said...

Hi Jeanette,
Simply put; Been there. Done that. Keep doing it.
What the heck, it's only canvas.
Have a pleasant Sunday filled with inspiration.
Sincerely,
Gary.