PRACTICE!
by Armand Cabrera
Outcome is more important than Process
Many
people delude themselves into believing that a painting
is successful because they’ve worked so hard on
it. We have all heard the sad tales of the weeks, even
months, of work that have gone into the completion of
a painting. Unfortunately, these artists have often ignored
the outcome, focusing instead on the effort spent on the
process.
In art, only the
results count
Only a conscious effort towards a predetermined goal
with a successful result can create anything worthwhile;
anything else is merely an accident---not art.
Becoming a successful artist requires years of practice.
The old adage applies to any career or profession---success
is 90% perspiration and 10% inspiration. It is most disappointing
that, particularly in the field of art, many artists believe
they shouldn’t have to practice because art is “creative”.
This unfortunate philosophy was launched by the modern
art movement and continues today to the detriment of all
artists.
To achieve successful results,
practice with specific goals in mind
An
artist must recognize where they are deficient. It’s
not productive to say,
“I’m going to paint better”. That is
a meaningless statement. Instead, ask yourself, “How
can I improve my paintings?” Isolate your problems
and then take a class or workshop from a professional
who can successfully target your particular challenges.
Insist that your instructor demonstrate how to help you
to correct your inadequacies. When you think you have
acquired the new skills, continue to practice. Remember,
it might take five or six hundred paintings before you
have truly achieved your goal. This is the effort required
to become a successful painter. If possible, show your
work to your instructor and ask if you have met your objective.
Don’t fool yourself into believing that you are
successful just because you have worked so hard!
Focused perseverance will undoubtedly produce
the desired results
