The Art of Making Mistakes

In the past (when drawing or painting), I would use such phrases as: “It’s ok” …. or … “it’ll do”. Others phrases I would use would be “It’s the Best I can do”… or … “It’s not bad”. Beware…, there are other words and phrases too which keep us from raising our standards.

Now, after many years of developing my Art, I realise that these little things we tell ourselves are actually words of insecurity and fear; They are crippling. The fear of going too far and thus ruining what you have achieved. In Art, you must strike these petty words and phrases from your vocabulary. They will limit your beliefs and slow your development as an Artist.

Stiffen up your sinews, charge your energy,  show courage and “thoughtful Spontaneity” You must go beyond your comfort bubble and DO what you must (and not just what you think you can). Draw, draw, draw, and practice until you throw your pencils to the wall in frustration!  Use anything to make the right mark – brushes, fingers, rags…whatever fits the purpose. Experiment with different materials and media. I must also warn you that you will make lots of disasters and huge mistakes – but this is a price worth paying because it eventually leads you to a magical kingdom that you never thought possible. Experiment and make those mistakes, try things out. Think deeply about the next mark you make…. indeed, think deeply about every mark you make. You will make thousands of marks and strokes in the execution of a work of Art. Each mark must have its own emotional content and deserve its rightful place in the sum of all its parts.

You must meticulously create the EXACT colour you need on your palette to re-create whatever it is you’re painting. Creative spontaneity is our friend but speed and rushing sometimes leads to a loss of control over the final image. (Some Artists indeed require a loss of control and strive for this very thing in their finished work)

I don’t want to over-dramatise this too much, but try to stay in the moment with every mark you make, live it, be it!!! Only then will you impart something of yourself in your work of art.