Welcome Your Creative Potential as an Artist
If you’re like me, painting isn’t just about copying what we see—and if you like to paint landscapes…well, it is about connecting with nature and bringing our personal perspective to life on the canvas. Over the years, I’ve learned that creativity isn’t about waiting for the muse to show up. It’s about taking on the challenge, experimenting, exploring new techniques, and, most importantly, enjoying the journey.
One thing I’ve realized is that, much like nature, the creative process is always evolving. It’s never too late to try something new, whether it's a different medium or a new technique. The key is to stay curious and open to growth. And most importantly, it’s about carving out time for your art—whether that’s daily, weekly, or whenever you can. I know how easy it is to get distracted by comparing yourself to others or getting lost in the constant scroll of social media. But trust me, when you step away from that and focus on your own work, magic happens. In this post, I want to share five lessons I’ve learned along my journey as an artist that could help you tap into your own creativity.
1. Passion is Your Creative Fuel
Let’s face it: there will be days when painting feels challenging. There will be times when you wonder if you’ll ever capture the right light or if your brushstrokes are truly expressing what you’re feeling. But here’s the truth—passion is what keeps you going. It’s that spark that draws you back to the canvas, even when it feels tough.
If you’re not sure where to begin, take a moment to think about what excites you.
What draws you to paint that landscape? Is it the way the sun reflects off a river or how calm is that mountain scene? Find your “favorites”—those subjects that inspire you—and keep painting them. When you paint from a place of passion, it shows in your work, and people will notice it.
2. Get Comfortable with Your Medium
Every medium you work with has its own personality. Whether you’re using oils, acrylics, or watercolors, getting to know how your materials behave is a huge part of the creative process. It’s not just about knowing the technical side of things—it’s about figuring out how to use your medium to communicate the mood and message of your painting.
Photo by mah talemo on Unsplash
The more you paint, the more comfortable you’ll become with the medium you’ve chosen. With each new painting, you’ll build confidence and skill. And even when things don’t go as planned, you’re still learning and growing. Every brushstroke is part of the process.
3. Constructive Feedback: Embrace It, Don’t Fear It
We all appreciate a “thumbs up” from friends and family, but real growth as an artist comes from feedback that pushes us to improve. Sure, hearing that your painting is “beautiful” is flattering, but what about the areas that could be better? That’s where constructive criticism plays a vital role.
I’ve personally experienced this through my daughter, who has an amazing knack for spotting what’s missing or what doesn’t quite fit in a piece. Sometimes, she’ll point out things I never noticed, and those little observations often change the direction of my work. It's not always easy to hear, but it’s always valuable. Not everyone has the artist’s eye, but some people just have a natural sense for what works and what doesn’t. Find those people and lean on their insights.
Be brave enough to ask for feedback, and be willing to rework parts of your painting if needed. It might feel frustrating in the moment, but often, that process is where the most growth happens. Sometimes the areas that need fixing are the ones that will teach us the most and ultimately help us evolve as artists.
4. Your Unique Voice Will Evolve
When you first start painting, it’s tempting to focus on making everything look “realistic.” But the truth is, art is about more than mimicking reality. It’s about expressing your vision, your perspective, and your emotions. Over time, you’ll begin to see that it’s okay to stray from realism and explore different styles and approaches.
Think about someone like Van Gogh—his work wasn’t always what we know it as today. In the beginning, his style was more somber and muted. But as he grew as an artist, he became more bold, experimenting with color and technique, developing a style that was unmistakably his. You don’t have to please everyone with your art, and that’s what makes it so special. As you keep painting, your unique voice will emerge, and that’s what will make your work stand out.
5. Your Art Tells a Story
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the technical aspects of painting—the brushstrokes, the layering, the blending of colors—but don’t forget that your artwork is also telling a story. When you paint a landscape, as an example, what story are you trying to tell? What inspired you to paint this particular scene? Every piece you create has its own narrative, and when you share that with your audience, it creates a deeper connection.
Think about what you want your viewers to feel when they see your work. What was the inspiration behind your painting? Even small insights can help others connect to your piece in a meaningful way. When your art and its story align, it becomes so much more than just a picture—it becomes an experience.
6. Practice with Cheaper Materials, But Invest in Quality for the Final Piece
As you develop your skills, it’s completely fine to practice with more affordable materials. Cheaper paints, brushes, and canvases are perfect for experimenting, making mistakes, and finding your unique style without the pressure of working with expensive supplies. They give you the freedom to try new techniques and explore different approaches without worrying about wasting materials.
However, when you're ready to create a piece that goes beyond a study or practice, it's worth investing in high-quality supplies. Good paints, brushes, and canvases can make a world of difference in how your work turns out, especially when it comes to the longevity and vibrancy of the piece. Plus, using better materials can enhance your experience, giving you more control over texture, color, and the overall finish.
If you can, consider choosing eco-friendly options that are safe for both your health and the environment. There are now more sustainable paints, brushes, and materials available that reduce harmful chemicals and support environmentally-conscious practices. As artists, we have the power to care for the planet while creating beautiful work. So, once you're ready to invest in the quality that will carry your vision forward, think about how your materials can reflect your values as well as your art.
Focus on the progress you’re making, and take joy in the act of painting. Keep experimenting, keep learning, and most importantly, keep creating. Your art is uniquely yours, and the world is waiting to see it.
