Do you find it difficult to be loose with your art? I do (a lot).
A few days ago I was painting and I started to feel like I’d never get the face right. I just couldn’t loosen up and let go. It all looked too perfect and painted on. Everything felt like a struggle.
That’s when I take a step away and start a new painting, I layer all sorts of art supplies onto my canvas and play. Having fun with my artwork helps me to be loose and more free when I paint my whimsical characters.
The background I create in my Free Painting Workshop was inspired by color blocking, using fingerpainting and a foam brush (click here if you’d like to join my Free Painting Workshop).
I also find inspiration in vast skylines, open fields and farmlands, so I often keep these dreamy landscapes in mind when it comes to covering up the white space.
I’ll squeeze 3 colors right onto my painting surface (maybe pale pink and titanium white acrylic paints, then a spill of baby blue acrylic ink) and spread the color back and forth horizontally until I have a soft, very imperfect sky, horizon line and ground.
It all becomes a meditative process, working with the color and remembering there’s no right or wrong.
Oftentimes, I begin with colors I’ve bought but don’t love or never use. It’s a fun way to uncover new color combinations and keeps me less attached to the outcome so I can be more fearless and loose when I paint.
Happy painting!
xo Juliette
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HELLO
I'M JULIETTE
A painter, writer, and creator of The School Of Happy Painting, online courses to help you loosen up, let go, and develop your own unique style.
Join me for a Free Workshop!
Want to know how I create my paintings? Join this free workshop to learn the fundamental principles I use to paint with style and whimsy, from covering up the white space to final artwork. Follow along to paint your own character in 30 minutes.
