Dear Scarlet and Indigo:

Do you have any tips for doing quick sketch paintings to loosen up?

Signed,
Uptight and Outasite

Dear Tight;

Perhaps you just need to take a little time to loosen up.  Seems like one of the main reasons we get uptight is that we are trying to squeeze painting in between everything else in life.

Have several painting boards ready with paper taped, stretched, stapled (however you prepare your paper) ready and sitting around at all times.  Then when the time comes up, grab a board and go outside (or anywhere you feel inspired) mix some wet juicy paint, grab a larger brush and start painting.  (It’s ok if you have a subject in mind but just start painting.)  Make large sweeping strokes, mix varieties of colors and watch what develops beneath your brush.  Then sit back and unwind for a few moments and think about how good that felt.  Then pick up the painting you are currently working on and dive in feeling refreshed and relaxed.

Scarlett found HER favorite method of loosening up at an afternoon paint out in Indigo’s garden.  As she was pondering where to start, Scarlett looked down at her paper and noticed the shapes and patterns that the shadows and sunlight were making…so she painted them!  Now it has become a relaxing and fun exercise to start every painting session. 

(And never know when a masterpiece can be found in one of these loosen up sessions!)

And just keep painting…

Scarlett & Indigo

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from MTWS SPRING 2001 Newsletter