By Lauren Walker All Fit/All Ages Gym
I normally get asked the details about how I create a painting. I’m happy to shed some light on my particular experience.
How long does it take you to complete a painting? It really depends on the subject matter and the size. My smallest commission is the following picture, “I’ll always walk beside you,” which is 16×20. Although it is a small painting, it was highly detailed.
This is a picture of a client’s grandchildren, which took me a week and a half. I tend to work a minimum of two hours per day or a maximum of four.
My client loves the end result, so I know my efforts were worth it.
How do you decide what to paint? If I’m being commissioned for a painting, my client gives me a photo reference. Otherwise, I pick images which speak to me. I like vibrant colours! I’ve done everything from landscapes to children’s book covers.
I like a challenge, so I constantly change subject matter.
Did you go to school? I have never been to school or been formally trained in art. That’s not to say I’d discourage anyone from doing so. However, I take courses on my own time at our local Meta 4 gallery.
How do you do that? This is a funny question I get asked a lot! People look at the work I do and ask, “How do you do that? I couldn’t draw a stick figure.” A lot of my experience comes from trial and error. I find a technique which works for me and I stick with it.
I believe anyone can improve their skill with practice. If I can do it, so can you.
Please see my work at the upcoming Port Perry Artists Association Autumn Show, on November 13th to 14th, or visit my website, at https://theartist-within.weebly.com, or on Facebook, at https://m.facebook.com/artistwithin86.
Happy painting!