I truly love to learn! It is interesting because I was never particularly good at school—in fact, I dreaded it (other than my art class), especially math. It wasn't until after school, when I attended Willowbank, that I began to genuinely enjoy learning at my own pace and in subjects that truly interested me. I even struggled with reading and often wondered how others could finish a book from start to finish. Then, one summer before grade 12, I read The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton, and I experienced what it was like to be truly obsessed with words on a page. I still read that book every summer!
My process of one of my latest paintings for the 12 x 12 Auction with Westland Gallery.
Above are images showing the progression of a painting I recently completed. Looking back, it is interesting to see where I started and identify areas for improvement in the future. One thing I noticed is that I could have developed the underpainting further by adding all the details in instead of loosly blocking in elements. I often rush through this stage because I am so eager to add colour to the canvas, but I realize it is important to take the time to refine this foundation. There is always room to enhance your skills or expand your knowledge. :)
The finished product.
Since reading The Forgotten Garden for the first time, I have realized that it just takes a bit of effort to discover what truly interests me, and when I do, it feels like striking gold. In most cases, I now recognize what I am interested in more quickly and have an easier time choosing the right book for me. Maybe life is somewhat similar: it requires effort and a desire to pursue something. We might not excel at something initially, but with consistent practice and curiosity, I believe we can achieve our goals with a bit more ease.
Which also could relate to the journey of being an artist. We all start somewhere, and it often isn’t perfect or very good in the beginning, it takes time but I think that talent is something you can develop through hard work. I don’t think I’ve reached my full potential yet at the slightest. Maybe by the time I am 80 and have been painting daily for years, I’ll finally master the art, but who knows? I think thats maybe what I love about painting so much, the excitement and anticipation for what is to come if I keep trying.
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