Bobblast 458 - "What I Do On Those Non Painting Days"

Greetings, art enthusiasts, and welcome to the world of artistic expression. I'm Bob Burge, a painter who has been immersed in the vibrant world of art for over three decades. Today, we're diving into a topic that resonates with every creative soul out there: non-painting days.

The Artist's Dilemma

Picture this: I've spent a solid 35 years of my life with a brush in hand, tirelessly translating my inner thoughts onto the canvas. However, even the most devoted artists encounter those inevitable days when the creative well runs dry. It's as if the muse has decided to take an extended vacation, leaving us high and dry in the studio.

But fret not, my fellow artists, for I have a strategy to share. On days when inspiration seems to have gone on vacation, here's what I do: I head down to my studio, fully prepared to paint, only to find myself staring at a blank canvas, bereft of ideas.

The Art of Studio Productivity

So, what's the game plan on these non-painting days? I've got a few tricks up my sleeve, and it all starts with showing up. I've realized that the simple act of being in the studio is the first step to awakening the creative beast within.

Next, I embark on a journey of organization. Emptying the waste paper basket, tidying up my workspace, and cleaning my brushes become essential tasks. You see, a clutter-free environment can work wonders in sparking creativity. It's as if a clean canvas beckons to be filled with innovative ideas.

The Power of Journaling

Now, let's talk about one of my favorite activities—journaling. A journal serves as a sanctuary for your thoughts, sketches, and ideas. When your mind is brimming with chaos and clutter, don't let those brilliant ideas get lost in the shuffle. Instead, jot them down. My journal is my memory bank, a place where I archive every concept and stroke of genius.

The beauty of journaling on non-painting days is that you can revisit older entries and rediscover past treasures. It's like stumbling upon hidden gems that are waiting to be brought to life on canvas.

Prepping Canvases and Papers

Another invaluable practice on non-painting days is prepping your canvases and papers. There's a serene joy in the process of applying gesso, be it white or any of the 22 vibrant colors offered by Holbein. It's not just about prepping the canvas; it's about a moment of meditation and a chance to flex your creative muscles.

The Art of Paper Tearing

For those who enjoy tearing paper, here's a delightful technique. To create a masterpiece, you must first master the art of tearing paper. Fold the sheet in half and tear it away from itself. Never tear towards the body—it's a rule I live by. By using this method, you'll always know which side of your paper has been gessoed.

Planning Your Masterpiece

On days when the creative juices aren't flowing, it's the perfect opportunity to contemplate your next masterpiece. I have a five C's strategy: Concept, Composition, Color Combo, Continuation, and Commitment. This structured approach allows me to flesh out my artistic vision, and it's a strategy that you can adopt as well.

Unlock Your Creative Potential

As we wrap up this artistic journey, I want to leave you with a simple truth: the creative process is not confined to the act of painting. It encompasses everything from journaling to canvas preparation to thoughtful planning. And remember, the muse might take a break, but your creative spirit is always at your side, waiting to spring to life.

So, on those non-painting days, don't let your creative energy go to waste. Embrace the beauty of organization, journaling, and preparation, and you'll be amazed at how these practices can fuel your artistic fire.

Stay committed to your artistic dreams, and let the studio be your sanctuary, your laboratory of creation. As we embark on this creative journey together, remember that your non-painting days are just as important as those filled with brushstrokes and color.

Now, go forth and infuse your creative energy into every aspect of your artistic life. I'll see you in the next Bob Blast, where we'll continue our artistic exploration.

And for those of you seeking a hands-on artistic adventure, join me at the Dilman's workshop, where we'll immerse ourselves in the art of "loosening up." You won't want to miss it!