Hello friends,
Have you ever watched me paint? I’m a really fast painter. I am almost supersonic, especially when I am racing to capture a scene before the sun sets. I start by slowly studying my subject. I carefully mix my paints. I put on headphones to discourage my family from interrupting me and play music that is fast and loud to drown out the ambient noise and set my pace.
And Then I PAINT - with speed, abandon and freedom!
The results are not always great, but I always feel better afterwards. I quell my fears and calm myself down by speed painting. I paint so fast that I don’t have time to think or worry or compare. I just paint. It’s like the Kentucky Derby in my head. The rail goes up and I start moving so fast - - creating long, fluid, relaxed marks - - making quick guesses and first impressions. I am not worrying. I am just moving towards the finish with a strong, confident stride.
Movement Actually Slows Me Down.
You see, I find delight in not thinking or weighing options or troubleshooting solutions. If you know Tony, you probably know that he meditates every morning. I admire that about him, but I can’t quiet my mind that way. Instead, I prefer motion to stop my perseverating. I enjoy watching waves crash or a fire crackle and I love to paint fast! That is where I find the most peace.
What Is Your Preferred Speed?
Do you calm down with slow, peaceful activities or do you find relaxation in quick movement? There is no right or wrong answer. I usually paint a still life in an hour. DaVinci took sixteen years to paint the Mona Lisa, so you have options. And there may not be one answer that works for you all the time. But it’s good to have a toolbox filled with ways to quiet your mind and soothe your nervous system when you just need a rest.
This June, You Can Speed Up Or Slow Down at Slow River!
We are hosting nearly TWENTY workshops in June! Each one will teach you new artistic skills in an unbelievably efficient way! You can fill your cup with berries, explore a new sketching spot, relax with neurographic art or learn to paint portraits all in just a few days!
Take a one, two, three or four day workshop - and jump in to learn something new in a few hours or slow down to really immerse yourself for days. Either way, you will be relaxed and prepared when summer classes start up again in early July!
We can’t wait to see you in the studio soon! Love Jess
