Come a Long Way... Baby

It's been just a little over a year ago that I started Encaustic (Wax) painting.  Its been an interesting road and I have learned so much about the medium.  But, my biggest takeaway for the year is how much I have learned about myself.

I like to pick a word that is my mantra for the year.  Last year, my word was

KNOWLEDGE.

I was wanting to learn.

I have actually surprised myself with the knowledge I gained in regard to painting:

1. I've learned I love painting with wax - its magical for me
2. I am not an abstract painter - not my deal at all
3. I actually want to paint a painting of something with the wax
4. I love love painting portraits and figures
5. I love to work BIG
6. I love putting words in my paintings - words are inspiring and thought provoking
7. I love the more POP ART style because it makes it fun

Above is my most recent painting.  She's BIG 24x24. 

Below is where I started its 3x3

I started out with my inner critic running the show.  Howling at me every day.  Telling me that it was really ridiculous that I was trying this at all.  I couldn't paint bigger than 3 inches square.  I was totally petrified of the whole process.  But, there was this little flicker inside that kept me at it.  Kept me trying, kept me learning.  I took some workshops and its a wonder that I could get through them at all.  Afraid to be free and work there, I would just dabble and come home with knowledge in my brain but nothing tangible to show for it.

What I learned is that I can not for my life paint an abstract painting or put together a collage.  The thought of being free and painting swirls and swishes and all that - NOPE, not my deal.  Not at all. 

But, I CAN paint a portrait.  I'm not sure exactly how that came to me.  I saw some portrait work in wax and for whatever reason, I wanted to try it.  No rhyme or reason - but it works - its my deal.  I still have a long way to go and lots to learn.  However, I feel I am on the right track now

Finally

So, if your inner critic rules your creativeness - she can be quieted.  She can take a back seat to what it is you are meant to do.  Don't be discouraged.  Kept going whatever direction feels right.  Gain KNOWLEDGE, move forward, practice and think BIG.

Just sayin