From My Studio Opus 1

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Today I gazed out of my studio window watching Mt Shasta and the seasons passing from winter to spring. We were preparing The Grand View Ranch for our second painting workshop, and I was constantly interrupted by the changing mood and light on this majestic peak. I painted this painting of the mountain mid-day when the light on the mountain is relatively flat, and even though this is not a dramatic time of day to paint, it is a challenge to capture the mood of the afternoon sun.

As I faced my own challenges when painting today, I was thinking about what is it that causes some people to achieve excellence, while others settle into a mediocre complacency. What would you have to do to take your art to the next level?
The most important quality that you can bring to your painting is desire. Desire has conquered nations, brought lovers together, and is the key for anyone one who wants to paint inspiring works. Many artists don’t trust their own voice that speaks about what is important and attractive to them. It is important to trust in your uniqueness because when you create art, it is a reflection of you. If the work pleases you, there is a good chance it will please some others. It is important to excel in your effort every time you begin a new canvas.

A good way to step-up a level in your art is to imagine yourself at your own one-man exhibition, and see it as others might see it. Imagine yourself walking through the gallery, and seeing your paintings on the wall with the lighting and framing just perfect. Ask yourself these two questions: are these paintings your visual response to the world, and are the works on the wall an extension of yourself? Try to listen to the conversations that others are whispering about your paintings and you. If you can imagine what others might feel and experience, then paint what you see and feel for them.

I hope that we can build a community of artists that can share information with each other.

If you know of any artists that might appreciate being included, let them know about this blog.
I hope to offer more painting tips as this conversation continues.

If you have questions that you would like me to answer, please don’t hesitate to email me anytime. I welcome your feedback. Stefan_Baumann@yahoo.com