Painting: A Metaphor For Life

Did you know that the process of a painting can be similar to a roller coaster? Sometimes it goes really smoothly, but sometimes it can be really frustrating. Not all paintings are difficult, and with more experience each one feels a little easier, but every so often there is a project that is a real struggle.

The following portraits have actually gone very smoothly, but I'm using them as an illustration to show how a painting changes from beginning to near-end.

My pallet 

When I look at a blank canvas or panel, I see potential. 

My awesome wood panel, custom made by the man shown below.

It can become a masterpiece, or it can become a failed, unfinished attempt at something I in the end give up on.

Painting has its ups and downs. Periods when it looks like progress is being made, and other periods when it looks completely ugly. Sometimes it's hard to see how it will get from ugly to great. 

It's a lot like life.

 I used to quit easily when a painting looked bad. I'd begin a piece assuming it would flawlessly become what I imaged. When it wouldn't, I'd walk away frustrated and discouraged. 

 But as I've painted more I've learned that throwing out the canvas or completely painting over it when it looks wrong isn't the answer.

 I have learned that it can always be fixed. If I stick with it, it will eventually become what I hope it will be.

(Also like life).

As I continue to work the paints into the correct places, fix the hues and the proportions, it gradually starts to improve, and I can more easily see it's potential.

Commission, almost finished.

Taylor, almost finished.

After much patience and perseverance, suddenly the paints, the proportions and the colors fall into place. 

I can feel a great sense of relief, and I can even breathe easier!

Life can be a source of discouragement, or a source of joy and appreciation. The key is to keep "painting," keep fixing, and never quit. We will all get there.