What resonates for me - having painting as that ‘lifelong companion’ and never feeling bored again. Starting at age 50, I never expected to NEED to paint, so I’m grateful for this consuming desire, regardless of outcome. Each time I sit down I try to think ‘I’m doing learning today’, not ‘painting’. And the moments of feeling like a painter are so exciting that they build me up. Thank you for sharing your wisdom, which might be more important than sharing your technique!
I am at a point in my creative journey where I feel the need to look primarily inward again, to stop feeling so inspired by other people's art that they influence me too much. I realised that I needed to come back to a subject I have been avoiding for years due to exploring other avenues and due to extensive experimentations. But at the end of this summer I felt empty. I didn't want to paint what I had just planned to paint. I didn't see the reason why I would want to paint those things in that way anymore. Umtil I said: okay, you actually know what you really want to do, so do it, even though you're starting from the beginning, basically. And don't waste time on more and more tutorials. Just do the work. Just for yourself. No pressure to paint in a certain way but your own. Books are okay to look something up if you are struggling with something, but other than that, just enjoy and embrace your own process. That's the way it will work in the long run.❤
Yes, I think we all go through this at some point! I completely stopped watching "art youtube" last year. Although I miss it sometimes, it was making me feel like I wasn't doing enough, or not doing the "right" things, etc. etc. Just painting what I love, for my own reasons is enough. I do share parts of my journey here online, but that is just a fraction of it. It's OK to not look at anything but your source of inspiration! In fact it is healthy if that's what you need to do to continue.
The lightbulb that went on for me as you talked was how important it is to keep practicing, to keep myself open to seeing what I’ve done well this time (short list!)and what I want to improve next time. Next time! Looking forward to the joy that comes from making art. Whether a particular piece is successful or not, it’s the making of it that’s the point. Never be bored again? Yeah, I’ll go for that ❤️ Thank you for sharing the joy, Sarah!!
Just realised that we all see ourselves in a different way than the people who are looking at our paintings. For me, when I have watched your videos, I concidered you a master artist. Your paintings are beautiful. You can paint what ever you want to and it looks wonderful. But I do know what you mean - there would always be things to learn and that makes it such a joy and adventure. As I realized, a year ago, that I have a HSP, I use painting to relax my brain. I have so many bees in my head and could not stop them flying around. When I paint though, there is no space for any other thoughts. I relax my brain. This makes me to a different painter than most other painters. For me painting is a way of relaxing my brain. Just paint without thinking. This is my goal. Getting better is great and makes me happy but this is just something that happens because I paint a lot 😂
@@kendravanwesemael6863 I agree. I worked through a small oil painting, when I got close to it being done, I put it aside and told myself that I would just throw it away. Two days later I came back to it, picked it up, made a few small value changes and now I’m happy with the end result.
I like the first version, Sarah, because its light and that quality of reality which is like being there evokes that feeling it is more real than the second version. As an artist of over 30 years myself, and also female, I concur with the continual myriad of millions of decisions that one makes during the painting process. Sketching is something that requires less high functioning mind and is a relaxing thing to do whereas doing a 900mm square oil painting of a still life, say, has many hours of decisions to bring it to that knowingness of its completion. I don’t stress over any painting but just thoroughly enjoy the stages it goes through. I would have to say that I have never compared myself to anyone, in my art or my life, for exploring who I am and how my uniqueness comes forth as an artist, by my hand is so incredibly fascinating! No self censorship is allowed as an artist! 🎨🇦🇺
I'm saving this video so that I can always go back and listen to your encouraging words when I'm "stuck" or wary of taking the next step. Making an art, regardless of media or outcome, not only keeps the boredom at bay, but is also life-affirming: "I accomplished something today besides just getting out of bed and going to work!"
I was in my late 40's when I started ... again, because I painted when I was a teenager. I believe that artists are sensitive people, because without that, you won't pay attention (as much) to, and wonder about, everything around you ... and being sensitive sometimes (or often) comes with different kinds of struggling in life. I have come to the conclusion, that I am sensitive and making art is (almost) the only thing I want to do. It is never too late to be yourself 😀 Cheers
I totally agree with you, it's so important to not compare yourself with other artists. I take my drawing and painting sessions as practice. Each one is practice and with each one I hope to learn a bit more.
I like the concept of "student for life." I also like the idea of painting a subject more than once. I think creativity has many influences both external and internal......winter, summer, sunny, rainy, snowy, foggy, morning, evening, night, happy, sad, stressed, relaxed, carefree, rigid etc. So, for each time we attempt a painting, one or more circumstances will be different and so each painting will reflect that. I love watching your videos. I really love your interpretation of the Scotland landscape, your sense of place!
I love this video and outlook you provide and it dovetails so beautifully with the period of life I currently am in. I have struggled with GAD most of my life, but it has become much more debilitating in the recent year. I have always loved art and creating things, but I realized i've lost the love of the process and have been hyper-focused on the end result (which shocker I am also never happy with). So, right now I am actively trying to shift my mindset to enjoy the "messy middle".
Thank you so much for your talking about your raw parts. As a newby, I concentrate on trying to be loose! So hard, sometimes I notice I have been painting with a clenched left hand. That ain't loose! So, I listen to my music a little louder, breathe and remind myself to tap into my inner 5 year old. That seems to help. No matter which video I watch of yours, you always give gems. You are wise for your years. Dearest Sarah, you are a true gem x
That was deep and very personal for you, Sarah. I know it took courage to share that with us and I feel humbled that you did. You are so multi-talented, I am awestruck. Even your music choice is a delight. Stay safe, stay loved, stay warm.
Thank you, Sarah for sharing so bravely & authentically your struggles & vulnerabilities. This is exactly where I am right now... only +15 years on how old you were when you said you started (So definite understand the "need to catch up" desperate, near- obsessive mindset 😂). Trying to slow down so I enjoy the process & journey now the technical skills are coming along. I have been focusing on a structured routine: same time every day & a structured process from researching an image through to finished painting. Knowing I do it every day helps me detach from "perfection" because there's always tomorrow to try again! Also savouring the process & trying not to worry about the end result. Thank you again for your videos 💕
Any work is progress! I have ME/CFS, so my energy is very limited and sometimes learning is a super slow process because of that. If all I can do one day is draw a few lines before my eyes close on me, that has to be good enough, and I've become ok with that.
I like them both for very different reasons. The first one I like because of its texture and abundance of brushstrokes, but the second one has more vivid colors and seems a bit more alive. They have different vibes, as if they were two different times of the same day. I enjoy this type of videos of you repainting something you already did. I find that quite the skill, cause I struggle to repeat subjects hehe
Both? There are aspects of both that draw my eye into the scene; softness in one vs saturation in the other, tree texture, light, the way you pushed some things to the back and pulled some forward. Thank you for this pep talk Sarah! From a recovering perfectionist perspective, I have to lean towards the “this is a creative act, and though there is intentionality involved, I can also take joy and have fun in this creative act I’m doing”. This mindset shift has helped me loosen up my strokes and explore more than I was before. I’ve seen that as I work my way through the gouache boxes. It’s been so encouraging to see the momentum in my skills. By the way, that pencil sharpener jar is really cool, I’ve never seen that! Going to google that :)
"this is a creative act, and though there is intentionality involved, I can also take joy and have fun in this creative act I’m doing” This is so great to remember. Even when you sit down to paint a commission or something you want to frame! Approach it from that understanding mindset.
I think you are already an accomplished artist and you know way more than you think - more than enough to stop studying, follow your gut and go your own way artistically❤ i love your art and your content, thank you, you are amazing!!!!
1) dont be hard on your self 2) try using say two colours and see where you end up 3) try setting your self a theme 4) using a limited number of colours simplifies the colour harmony 5) artists coloured pencils leaves transperent layers try laying down say a cream colour and slowly toning it with a fine layer try to make this un even to let the paler colour shine through and build up your desired tonal range from light to dark then create texterture with the point of the pencil this will give you a bark like texture have fun
That's so true! You're your worst enemy and best friend in this process at one time 😊 I've learned to think to myself: 'finished, not perfect' meaning I know what I need to work on next time I paint. Thank you for this video Sarah!
Student for life! YES! Never lonely or bored or sad again! YES! Oh Sarah… I so get this as I am in my studio EVERY day because I NEED to be. I’m always thinking I’ll never really be a great artist but have decided thats ok because creating is where my JOY is because it’s the one place I am able to truly focus and calm my mind. My studio is my safe and happy place and I’ve surrounded myself with my art, my supplies, inspiration and of course you on youtube and Patreon. My journals (inspired by you) keep me going…. we don’t always have to create masterpieces and frame them. BTW, I ordered your brushes and they have shipped and I can’t wait to use them. Bless you Sarah for being “real”. ❤️ PJ
Great advice! For me I think about a plan briefly in the beginning but after that, it’s more of an intuitive process for me. If I try to jump back into my left, thinking brain, it stops the flow and stiffens me up. It’s fascinating how different we all are and what works for us. Enjoyed hearing your thought process.
I am a beginner since a few years ago. What inspired me to start was the awareness that my grandmother's painting talent might me inside of me too. She has been gone since I was 19, and I'm 72 now. I never tried before, and my grandmother painted on china - a different kind of painting than I would do. I notice that I am learning to anticipate the process so I can go slower and allow the paint (watercolor) to dry (or not) as necessary. So I am accepting that it takes time to establish the muscle memory that you spoke of. What sparks me sometimes is a particular subject I wish I could capture in some way, and at other times I try a tutorial that will challenge me. There's nowhere to go, and nothing to do, a tenet from the buddha, which helps me to accept what is inside me, and know that my painting process is a present moment experience. The results aren't always what I'd like to see, but I am storing the learnings, as you said, which each stroke of the brush. Thank you for your introspection today!
This hit really close to home, as someone who pivoted from storyboarding and marketing to fantasy illustration in her 30s. "I'll never be as good as I want to be, but that's okay..." I should write that on a post-it and tape it to my desk wall. I love your art and the way you present it on your channel, and it was so interesting to hear about your doubts and struggles, especially since I look up to your work so much! 💚
It's the perfect place to start, not only does it come with the exact supplies you need for each tutorial, but the tutorials are created in a way that they build skills over the whole 12 months, so by the end you can apply everything you've learned to your own work.
We're always so critical about our own art! Looking at both the study from the livestream and the focused study, i personally like the one from the livestream best! I know you thought you didn't capture the light enough, but for me, you captured it beautifully in that one! It's actually my favourite (although i love both versions!) 💖💖🏴
I could not agree more with everything you said in this video! I love the idea of letting go completely, while still always striving for better. It’s more about letting go of the need for a specific outcome than anything…being okay with whatever comes, and loving where we are on our journey. You and I seem very similar in personality and I too have spent time in therapy and life coaching to change thought patterns and LET GO. That has changed me as a person, but also made me a much better artist! Thanks you for this video! Techniques are great, but I think we need to talk more often about mindset in the art community, like you often do! ❤
Oh Sarah, this is THE video - thanks a lot. You have several kinds of videos here in this channel and I like them all: about tools, about artistic life in Scotland, your plain air sessions, videos about social life... But this kind is really special - videos with your "deep feelings and ideas about art". I really appreciate how open you are in this (same about running business, very open as well). Believe me, these videos are a time-persistent value, it's really good to view them again, time to time, and think about all these topics again - some time later, with more/another experience etc. In short: I really love all your videos (emotionally, your plain air sessions are SO great!) but this is what makes your channel specific and (even more) valuable. Thanks a lot for all these ideas you share with us!
Sometimes I just play. I experiment with how watercolors and gouache look and feel on the paper. Watching two pools of colors blend together, mixing medium that don’t typically mix, seeing how colors look next to each other. No goal, no pressure. Just play. Like you were a kid again.
I prefer the first for it's variety of brush strokes and the perspective pulls you into the scene . Both are truly beautiful and evoke a sense of tranquility !
You will never know how helpful this is to me. I’m 67 and I started paint in a couple of years ago. There are several artists I follow on UA-cam, but only a couple of favorites of which you are one. I too, deal with mental illness which has crippled my creativity both in painting and in music until I realized how healing the creativity could be. I began to not only paint more, but I found my style and am learning to cut myself some slack when a piece doesn’t turn out the way I wanted it to. In summary, thanks for your timely advice and honesty.
This video was so important for me . Why are we so critical to ourselves . How do you correct the feeling of ..."is it good enough, will it sell ?" I just want to create , and not ever think about that . I'd like to free myself and have a big bon fire of some of paintings that are laying around . Has anyone had those feelings ? 🙂 I had a bad fall and a tramatic brain injury, and my art has changed a bit , but I am trying to just roll with it , and see where it goes . So greateful for your channel and this community . Thank you Sarah so much for the encouragement of this video . We are truely blessed to have the friend of art at our side all the time ✌
When I run out of storage space, I do a big "purge" of my practice pieces (that aren't in sketchbooks). I recycle or donate the "worst" or ones that don't mean anything to me, like if they were just practicing from a reference to learn something specific. Knowing they might be beautiful to someone else but not to me. Otherwise, I keep at least 20-50% from each season to be able to look back at them in the future. It is very exciting to see where I started! I look back and think, I remember when I couldn't paint a single tree.
I'm 47 years old and started first drawing with graphite pencils and digitally about 1,5 years ago. Then I started to paint with water colours and then also gouache and then I have been venturing to oil pastels, charcoal and ink. After first struggles I felt that I started to develop quite fast, but then at some point I stopped and haven't done barely anything in past 6 months. This video inspired me to grab my brushes and not be care about end result, but enjoy the process. That has been my motto before, but somehow when I stopped for a while I haven't been painting or drawn barely at all in six past months. I need to just get something done fairly regularly and I think I will be again sucked into doing stuff.
This is the very first time I've heard someone put into words how I feel while I'm painting. Your advice is so helpful, Sarah. I am always so surprised how exhausting painting is when it isn't physical. You are right there is so much to think about during the process. Its very enjoyable but also mentally hard work. I've always told myself if I expect to be another Rembrandt I may as well give up. 😅 So.. lm just going to be ME. Having a great time learning.
Thank you Sarah! I love the vibrant colors in the second one but the feeling of calmness comes from both scenes. I look at them and I can feel the same harmony of senses of when I'm actually in a forest 😌
I love the self critique advice. It gives me specific things to ask myself as I create a piece. This is something that definitely helps us grow towards our own goals. My new goal: making this a regular practice as i paint. Reflection is so important in growth!
HI Sarah - awesome as always - i am only a hobby artist and do illustration - i am never fully happy especially when there is so much more amazing work out there! But you are right - its the process and enjoyment it brings - keep it coming 😀
Thankyou Sarah. I was so satisfying to hear that you felt the same way I do. I spent my youth drawing but as an escape... then I stopped art till I was in my early sixties! Lol. Can u believe it? And like you it became an all consuming passion. I also wanted to improve at everything. I love to detail draw. I love watercolour and gouache and acrylic. I love phen air and now when I look at anything I’m looking at how I would draw it or paint it... the biggest obstacle I ran up against is family and friends thinking you are not a artist unless you are selling your art... lol. That was hard for me... first of all, I have a hard time parting with my art.... do u experience this? It’s not like my art is fantastic but when I look at my art I see all the experiences that I went through as I was making it and although I have given my art away its to friends that I can see from their expressions when they see it that it brings them happiness. It’s been quite a ride and as you say I never never suffer from boredom. Lol
Thank you for another great thoughtful video! So much truth! I agree it is most important to accept that you (meaning "anybody") are a life-long learner, no matter how good you are. Two important ideas (in general): 1. Mistakes and "messed-up" paintings are inevitable and part of the learning process. Accept them as a learning opportunity. 2. Don't compare yourself with others, just as Sarah says: it is a huge mistake, because it discourages you. There will always be artists that are further along in their process. Enjoy their art and be happy that it exists. They most likely worked very hard to get there. "Talent" is a myth. Enjoy your own art, too - even though you see every single mistake and wished it wasn't there. Keep going. You will get better!
The best part is that in 5 years, you look back at the work you do now with a totally fresh perspective and KNOW that every "mistake" was VERY important!
They are both beautiful work and they show your dedication. The first has a definite ray of light quality while the second shows the light filtered through the boughs on the left. Really, truly amazing pieces each in their own way. ❤
I enjoyed this tonthenpoint I watched it a couple of times 😊. It sparked lots of thoughts that Inneeded to sort out. I enjoyed the self Critique questions at the end, very useful to have a structure. These are valuable insights that gave me lots of issues to consider as I advance in painting. Thank you Sarah.
What a great video, Sarah,so much amazing food for thought! I really appreciate your transparency and can identify with so many of the things you said. Each time I pick up my brush, I try to remind myself that it’s only paint and paper, and the more of it I use the more I am reminded that I’m learning and improving. It’s hard to pick a favorite of your 2 paintings, as I truly love everything you paint, but it is lovely how the light filters through the forest in the second one, so I guess I’ll pick #2. 😘 Thank you for the time you invested in putting this video together. You are a blessing ❣️
Thanks so much for this video! It resonates with me on so many levels. My plateaus can be uncomfortably long and I’m sure I’m going to pack it in; thankfulky, I don’t and forge ahead.
I loved this video because you pretty much said everything Im thinking of as an artist. I started in my 30s too and felt so behind in my skills development. I only recently got to a point whet, even though i still am working to get better, im seeing my art as its own think and not something comparable to others.
I love both❤ and as you said, a mix of both, the shining light on the trees and looseness from the second one and the structure and contrast from the more dry brushstrokes from the first one may be would be the perfect one, but each is unique and I like them…maybe one of the next postcards?😍
I'm just here because I love your channel, but I honestly cannot relate. Whenever I finish a piece, even little sketches, I go back to it and I love it, because I made it. Why would I not love the drawings that have brought me joy while I did them? I see time well spent and a result that shows what I can do that I couldn't do a few years ago. Negative thoughts just have no place in this.
I prefer the lifestream one. It almost feels like I can walk in there. I especially like the rendering of the forest floor. I also like that colors are more muted. I think less contrast also makes it more moody and forest-y. Normally I prefer bolder bigger brushstrokes but looking at this I’m realizing (mostly for myself) that one either has to choose bolder brushstrokes or higher contrast. Having both kinda ruins the feeling of "I could almost walk into the picture", I guess it’s distracting from the subject? Thank you so much for doing this double study, it made me realize many things in my own art.
Love your paintings and videos. I like the first painting better, but I agree that you captured the light on the trees beautifully in the second one. I am an artist and a martial artist, and it is always surprising to me how much overlap there is in the mentality for each. I often find one thing to focus on when doing martial arts so I can improve, and this makes so much sense in your art practice as well. Also, keeping the "learning mentality" is important, and avoiding comparing yourself to others. (And of course, there is the muscle memory)
It is hard to embrace all aspects of painting at once... I can't paint for hours (I would be totally exhausted ;-)) I tend to pause all the time, I do the drawing and then sometimes days can go by before I get back to it. I think it is a "fear" thing but waiting in between helps me to focus on all aspects and making less "mistakes". One of my goals is to be able to be spontaneous and loose but still get good composition and correct value. My progress is slow because of all the pausing 😕but that's just the way it is 😅 Cheers Sarah and thanks for all the great and intelligent content 😊
Such a well rounded video. So helpful for a beginner for me. Liked the 3 questions to ask yourself after you finish a painting. I have those written down. I liked how you are realistic in your feedback, keep practicing over and over and get to know your supplies and then color theory etc. You truly inspire me in many ways! I just signed up for your monthly subscription. Best investment ever!
First reaction: I prefer Study 1. Upon reflection: I like both the dry-brush reality of #1 and the loose, ethereal quality of #2. Each fit a mood and have their place.
thank you for this overview. Unless I am really going to frame a picture I will actually write my comments on the picture itself. This stops me getting overconfident about I've done. I then pin it on my wall, and resist the painting process until I am happy. By writing on the painting it does mean I have to do it again.
That’s a great idea for keeping yourself motivated. I often write notes next to mine (along with color notes). It also helps the page feel less precious. It’s just a sketchbook after all!
I would love to hear how your ocd shows up in your relationship and how you two work with it. Maybe on your other channel. In other words more details about managing thoughts.
I get really stuck in the thought of having to create a masterpiece every time I paint. I try to remember that doing is a lot better that perfection paralysis (not doing). Sometimes I just play with my colours and brushes. What shapes can this brush do if I press it towards the paper this way or that way. I get to learn my palette and my brushes.
Regarding grey, keep in mind that women see more colour than men. When the gouache expert suggested you concentrate more on grey shadows, it's possible that he literally can't see the blues and purples in the shadows. I've noticed men often paint shadows in greyscale and use less vibrant colour in general, and scientists have found that men do not see colour as well as women. So male artists may simply be painting greys because they can't see the colours! And that's a deficit not an advantage!
Don’t give up at the ugly stage, it will get better and if not it’s only paper. Just try again. Often it’s the enjoyment of the process and not the end result that’s important to me.
I am proud to say that I have no put paint in my drinking cup, or drank my paint water yet. But the one time I had tea on my desk with doing art I was super duper careful about it…. My water is always in a water bottle otherwise, and my paint wash cup has a silicone thing around the cup for hanging brushes, so it’s kinda hard to want to drink for that :P
I was told you're aren't a professional artist until you have washed your brushes in your coffee/tea and tried to drink your paint water at least once. So I have been a professional artist for nearly two years now 😂 I don't know if it's an aphantasia thing or just an autistic brain thing but I struggle with painting the same thing over and over again as a practice. I just keep making the same mistakes. I seem to learn more by leaving my problem painting for a while and watching someone else paint something on UA-cam. They don't need to be using the same medium or painting the same type of subject. In fact I have a sneaky feeling that watching funny cat videos would work just as well 😂 It's like I need some time and space away from my work to be able to level up and I have no idea why that works for me. Maybe my brain just takes longer to process the initial lesson so repeating the lesson again too soon doesn't change anything?
I hear the smile in your voice in your videos, Sarah, which adds so much to the great content you provide.
What resonates for me - having painting as that ‘lifelong companion’ and never feeling bored again. Starting at age 50, I never expected to NEED to paint, so I’m grateful for this consuming desire, regardless of outcome. Each time I sit down I try to think ‘I’m doing learning today’, not ‘painting’. And the moments of feeling like a painter are so exciting that they build me up. Thank you for sharing your wisdom, which might be more important than sharing your technique!
"consuming desire, regardless of outcome" love this!
I am at a point in my creative journey where I feel the need to look primarily inward again, to stop feeling so inspired by other people's art that they influence me too much. I realised that I needed to come back to a subject I have been avoiding for years due to exploring other avenues and due to extensive experimentations. But at the end of this summer I felt empty. I didn't want to paint what I had just planned to paint. I didn't see the reason why I would want to paint those things in that way anymore. Umtil I said: okay, you actually know what you really want to do, so do it, even though you're starting from the beginning, basically. And don't waste time on more and more tutorials. Just do the work. Just for yourself. No pressure to paint in a certain way but your own. Books are okay to look something up if you are struggling with something, but other than that, just enjoy and embrace your own process. That's the way it will work in the long run.❤
Extremely good point!❤
Well said!
I want to embrace this thinking for myself. So awesome! @LisaZoe86
Yes, I think we all go through this at some point! I completely stopped watching "art youtube" last year. Although I miss it sometimes, it was making me feel like I wasn't doing enough, or not doing the "right" things, etc. etc. Just painting what I love, for my own reasons is enough. I do share parts of my journey here online, but that is just a fraction of it. It's OK to not look at anything but your source of inspiration! In fact it is healthy if that's what you need to do to continue.
The lightbulb that went on for me as you talked was how important it is to keep practicing, to keep myself open to seeing what I’ve done well this time (short list!)and what I want to improve next time. Next time! Looking forward to the joy that comes from making art. Whether a particular piece is successful or not, it’s the making of it that’s the point. Never be bored again? Yeah, I’ll go for that ❤️ Thank you for sharing the joy, Sarah!!
Just realised that we all see ourselves in a different way than the people who are looking at our paintings. For me, when I have watched your videos, I concidered you a master artist. Your paintings are beautiful. You can paint what ever you want to and it looks wonderful. But I do know what you mean - there would always be things to learn and that makes it such a joy and adventure. As I realized, a year ago, that I have a HSP, I use painting to relax my brain. I have so many bees in my head and could not stop them flying around. When I paint though, there is no space for any other thoughts. I relax my brain. This makes me to a different painter than most other painters. For me painting is a way of relaxing my brain. Just paint without thinking. This is my goal. Getting better is great and makes me happy but this is just something that happens because I paint a lot 😂
This really resonates, thank you for doing this subject
I also noticed that, if I don't like a painting I did. A few weeks later, I like it. So don't throw it away immediately.
@@kendravanwesemael6863 I agree. I worked through a small oil painting, when I got close to it being done, I put it aside and told myself that I would just throw it away. Two days later I came back to it, picked it up, made a few small value changes and now I’m happy with the end result.
I like the first version, Sarah, because its light and that quality of reality which is like being there evokes that feeling it is more real than the second version. As an artist of over 30 years myself, and also female, I concur with the continual myriad of millions of decisions that one makes during the painting process. Sketching is something that requires less high functioning mind and is a relaxing thing to do whereas doing a 900mm square oil painting of a still life, say, has many hours of decisions to bring it to that knowingness of its completion. I don’t stress over any painting but just thoroughly enjoy the stages it goes through. I would have to say that I have never compared myself to anyone, in my art or my life, for exploring who I am and how my uniqueness comes forth as an artist, by my hand is so incredibly fascinating! No self censorship is allowed as an artist! 🎨🇦🇺
I liked the first one also
You are a wise young lady, Sarah. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.
I'm saving this video so that I can always go back and listen to your encouraging words when I'm "stuck" or wary of taking the next step. Making an art, regardless of media or outcome, not only keeps the boredom at bay, but is also life-affirming: "I accomplished something today besides just getting out of bed and going to work!"
Me too. It goes in my “best art mindset” playlist
I was in my late 40's when I started ... again, because I painted when I was a teenager. I believe that artists are sensitive people, because without that, you won't pay attention (as much) to, and wonder about, everything around you ... and being sensitive sometimes (or often) comes with different kinds of struggling in life. I have come to the conclusion, that I am sensitive and making art is (almost) the only thing I want to do. It is never too late to be yourself 😀 Cheers
I totally agree with you, it's so important to not compare yourself with other artists. I take my drawing and painting sessions as practice. Each one is practice and with each one I hope to learn a bit more.
I like the concept of "student for life." I also like the idea of painting a subject more than once. I think creativity has many influences both external and internal......winter, summer, sunny, rainy, snowy, foggy, morning, evening, night, happy, sad, stressed, relaxed, carefree, rigid etc. So, for each time we attempt a painting, one or more circumstances will be different and so each painting will reflect that. I love watching your videos. I really love your interpretation of the Scotland landscape, your sense of place!
I love this video and outlook you provide and it dovetails so beautifully with the period of life I currently am in. I have struggled with GAD most of my life, but it has become much more debilitating in the recent year. I have always loved art and creating things, but I realized i've lost the love of the process and have been hyper-focused on the end result (which shocker I am also never happy with). So, right now I am actively trying to shift my mindset to enjoy the "messy middle".
Very Deep meaning which resonates not only me...but many artists I think😊
Thank you so much for your talking about your raw parts. As a newby, I concentrate on trying to be loose! So hard, sometimes I notice I have been painting with a clenched left hand. That ain't loose! So, I listen to my music a little louder, breathe and remind myself to tap into my inner 5 year old. That seems to help.
No matter which video I watch of yours, you always give gems. You are wise for your years. Dearest Sarah, you are a true gem x
That was deep and very personal for you, Sarah. I know it took courage to share that with us and I feel humbled that you did. You are so multi-talented, I am awestruck. Even your music choice is a delight.
Stay safe, stay loved, stay warm.
Thank you, Sarah for sharing so bravely & authentically your struggles & vulnerabilities. This is exactly where I am right now... only +15 years on how old you were when you said you started (So definite understand the "need to catch up" desperate, near- obsessive mindset 😂). Trying to slow down so I enjoy the process & journey now the technical skills are coming along. I have been focusing on a structured routine: same time every day & a structured process from researching an image through to finished painting. Knowing I do it every day helps me detach from "perfection" because there's always tomorrow to try again! Also savouring the process & trying not to worry about the end result. Thank you again for your videos 💕
I really love the live stream painting, that light across the path and moss on the tree and forest floor just gets me.
Great video and insight.
Any work is progress! I have ME/CFS, so my energy is very limited and sometimes learning is a super slow process because of that. If all I can do one day is draw a few lines before my eyes close on me, that has to be good enough, and I've become ok with that.
the texture you create is amazing, it really brings this piece to life 🥰
"... occasionally getting paint in places it should never be" had me cackling 😂 so true! We've all sipped a paint flavored tea time and again
I like them both for very different reasons. The first one I like because of its texture and abundance of brushstrokes, but the second one has more vivid colors and seems a bit more alive. They have different vibes, as if they were two different times of the same day.
I enjoy this type of videos of you repainting something you already did. I find that quite the skill, cause I struggle to repeat subjects hehe
Both? There are aspects of both that draw my eye into the scene; softness in one vs saturation in the other, tree texture, light, the way you pushed some things to the back and pulled some forward. Thank you for this pep talk Sarah! From a recovering perfectionist perspective, I have to lean towards the “this is a creative act, and though there is intentionality involved, I can also take joy and have fun in this creative act I’m doing”. This mindset shift has helped me loosen up my strokes and explore more than I was before. I’ve seen that as I work my way through the gouache boxes. It’s been so encouraging to see the momentum in my skills. By the way, that pencil sharpener jar is really cool, I’ve never seen that! Going to google that :)
"this is a creative act, and though there is intentionality involved, I can also take joy and have fun in this creative act I’m doing” This is so great to remember. Even when you sit down to paint a commission or something you want to frame! Approach it from that understanding mindset.
I think you are already an accomplished artist and you know way more than you think - more than enough to stop studying, follow your gut and go your own way artistically❤ i love your art and your content, thank you, you are amazing!!!!
Thanks Sarah! I needed this pep talk. Here's to a lot of painting joy in 2025.
1) dont be hard on your self 2) try using say two colours and see where you end up 3) try setting your self a theme 4) using a limited number of colours simplifies the colour harmony 5) artists coloured pencils leaves transperent layers try laying down say a cream colour and slowly toning it with a fine layer try to make this un even to let the paler colour shine through and build up your desired tonal range from light to dark then create texterture with the point of the pencil this will give you a bark like texture have fun
That's so true! You're your worst enemy and best friend in this process at one time 😊 I've learned to think to myself: 'finished, not perfect' meaning I know what I need to work on next time I paint. Thank you for this video Sarah!
That’s a great line to keep in mind!
Student for life! YES! Never lonely or bored or sad again! YES! Oh Sarah… I so get this as I am in my studio EVERY day because I NEED to be. I’m always thinking I’ll never really be a great artist but have decided thats ok because creating is where my JOY is because it’s the one place I am able to truly focus and calm my mind. My studio is my safe and happy place and I’ve surrounded myself with my art, my supplies, inspiration and of course you on youtube and Patreon. My journals (inspired by you) keep me going…. we don’t always have to create masterpieces and frame them. BTW, I ordered your brushes and they have shipped and I can’t wait to use them. Bless you Sarah for being “real”. ❤️ PJ
Yay I really hope you enjoy them!!
Great advice! For me I think about a plan briefly in the beginning but after that, it’s more of an intuitive process for me. If I try to jump back into my left, thinking brain, it stops the flow and stiffens me up. It’s fascinating how different we all are and what works for us. Enjoyed hearing your thought process.
I am a beginner since a few years ago. What inspired me to start was the awareness that my grandmother's painting talent might me inside of me too. She has been gone since I was 19, and I'm 72 now. I never tried before, and my grandmother painted on china - a different kind of painting than I would do. I notice that I am learning to anticipate the process so I can go slower and allow the paint (watercolor) to dry (or not) as necessary. So I am accepting that it takes time to establish the muscle memory that you spoke of. What sparks me sometimes is a particular subject I wish I could capture in some way, and at other times I try a tutorial that will challenge me. There's nowhere to go, and nothing to do, a tenet from the buddha, which helps me to accept what is inside me, and know that my painting process is a present moment experience. The results aren't always what I'd like to see, but I am storing the learnings, as you said, which each stroke of the brush. Thank you for your introspection today!
This hit really close to home, as someone who pivoted from storyboarding and marketing to fantasy illustration in her 30s. "I'll never be as good as I want to be, but that's okay..." I should write that on a post-it and tape it to my desk wall.
I love your art and the way you present it on your channel, and it was so interesting to hear about your doubts and struggles, especially since I look up to your work so much! 💚
It's the perfect place to start, not only does it come with the exact supplies you need for each tutorial, but the tutorials are created in a way that they build skills over the whole 12 months, so by the end you can apply everything you've learned to your own work.
We're always so critical about our own art!
Looking at both the study from the livestream and the focused study, i personally like the one from the livestream best! I know you thought you didn't capture the light enough, but for me, you captured it beautifully in that one! It's actually my favourite (although i love both versions!)
💖💖🏴
I could not agree more with everything you said in this video! I love the idea of letting go completely, while still always striving for better. It’s more about letting go of the need for a specific outcome than anything…being okay with whatever comes, and loving where we are on our journey. You and I seem very similar in personality and I too have spent time in therapy and life coaching to change thought patterns and LET GO. That has changed me as a person, but also made me a much better artist! Thanks you for this video! Techniques are great, but I think we need to talk more often about mindset in the art community, like you often do! ❤
Oh Sarah, this is THE video - thanks a lot. You have several kinds of videos here in this channel and I like them all: about tools, about artistic life in Scotland, your plain air sessions, videos about social life... But this kind is really special - videos with your "deep feelings and ideas about art". I really appreciate how open you are in this (same about running business, very open as well). Believe me, these videos are a time-persistent value, it's really good to view them again, time to time, and think about all these topics again - some time later, with more/another experience etc.
In short: I really love all your videos (emotionally, your plain air sessions are SO great!) but this is what makes your channel specific and (even more) valuable. Thanks a lot for all these ideas you share with us!
Your words about embracing the learning process really resonate. Thank you for this thoughtful and beautiful piece, Sarah!💕
Sometimes I just play. I experiment with how watercolors and gouache look and feel on the paper. Watching two pools of colors blend together, mixing medium that don’t typically mix, seeing how colors look next to each other. No goal, no pressure. Just play. Like you were a kid again.
I love doing that on days when I want to paint, but not think.
“… a student for life…” Thank you for that. It just changed my brain, for the better. 😂
I prefer the first for it's variety of brush strokes and the perspective pulls you into the scene . Both are truly beautiful and evoke a sense of tranquility !
You will never know how helpful this is to me. I’m 67 and I started paint in a couple of years ago. There are several artists I follow on UA-cam, but only a couple of favorites of which you are one.
I too, deal with mental illness which has crippled my creativity both in painting and in music until I realized how healing the creativity could be. I began to not only paint more, but I found my style and am learning to cut myself some slack when a piece doesn’t turn out the way I wanted it to. In summary, thanks for your timely advice and honesty.
This video was so important for me . Why are we so critical to ourselves .
How do you correct the feeling of ..."is it good enough, will it sell ?"
I just want to create , and not ever think about that . I'd like to free myself and have a big bon fire of some of paintings that are laying around . Has anyone had those feelings ? 🙂
I had a bad fall and a tramatic brain injury, and my art has changed a bit , but I am trying to just roll with it , and see where it goes .
So greateful for your channel and this community .
Thank you Sarah so much for the encouragement of this video . We are truely blessed to have the friend of art at our side all the time ✌
When I run out of storage space, I do a big "purge" of my practice pieces (that aren't in sketchbooks).
I recycle or donate the "worst" or ones that don't mean anything to me, like if they were just practicing from a reference to learn something specific. Knowing they might be beautiful to someone else but not to me.
Otherwise, I keep at least 20-50% from each season to be able to look back at them in the future. It is very exciting to see where I started! I look back and think, I remember when I couldn't paint a single tree.
I'm 47 years old and started first drawing with graphite pencils and digitally about 1,5 years ago. Then I started to paint with water colours and then also gouache and then I have been venturing to oil pastels, charcoal and ink. After first struggles I felt that I started to develop quite fast, but then at some point I stopped and haven't done barely anything in past 6 months. This video inspired me to grab my brushes and not be care about end result, but enjoy the process. That has been my motto before, but somehow when I stopped for a while I haven't been painting or drawn barely at all in six past months. I need to just get something done fairly regularly and I think I will be again sucked into doing stuff.
This is the very first time I've heard someone put into words how I feel while I'm painting. Your advice is so helpful, Sarah. I am always so surprised how exhausting painting is when it isn't physical. You are right there is so much to think about during the process. Its very enjoyable but also mentally hard work. I've always told myself if I expect to be another Rembrandt I may as well give up. 😅 So.. lm just going to be ME. Having a great time learning.
People who don't paint will never understand how exhausting it is 😅
Thank you Sarah! I love the vibrant colors in the second one but the feeling of calmness comes from both scenes. I look at them and I can feel the same harmony of senses of when I'm actually in a forest 😌
I like the second version. Your strokes are more sure of themselves. I can see the darks and lights of the piece. Very nice lesson. You inspire me ❤😊😊
I love the self critique advice. It gives me specific things to ask myself as I create a piece. This is something that definitely helps us grow towards our own goals. My new goal: making this a regular practice as i paint. Reflection is so important in growth!
HI Sarah - awesome as always - i am only a hobby artist and do illustration - i am never fully happy especially when there is so much more amazing work out there! But you are right - its the process and enjoyment it brings - keep it coming 😀
Thankyou Sarah. I was so satisfying to hear that you felt the same way I do. I spent my youth drawing but as an escape... then I stopped art till I was in my early sixties! Lol. Can u believe it? And like you it became an all consuming passion. I also wanted to improve at everything. I love to detail draw. I love watercolour and gouache and acrylic. I love phen air and now when I look at anything I’m looking at how I would draw it or paint it... the biggest obstacle I ran up against is family and friends thinking you are not a artist unless you are selling your art... lol. That was hard for me... first of all, I have a hard time parting with my art.... do u experience this? It’s not like my art is fantastic but when I look at my art I see all the experiences that I went through as I was making it and although I have given my art away its to friends that I can see from their expressions when they see it that it brings them happiness. It’s been quite a ride and as you say I never never suffer from boredom. Lol
Thank you for another great thoughtful video! So much truth!
I agree it is most important to accept that you (meaning "anybody") are a life-long learner, no matter how good you are.
Two important ideas (in general):
1. Mistakes and "messed-up" paintings are inevitable and part of the learning process. Accept them as a learning opportunity.
2. Don't compare yourself with others, just as Sarah says: it is a huge mistake, because it discourages you. There will always be artists that are further along in their process. Enjoy their art and be happy that it exists. They most likely worked very hard to get there. "Talent" is a myth.
Enjoy your own art, too - even though you see every single mistake and wished it wasn't there. Keep going. You will get better!
The best part is that in 5 years, you look back at the work you do now with a totally fresh perspective and KNOW that every "mistake" was VERY important!
Your videos are always so interesting and enjoyable! Thanks a lot !
They are both beautiful work and they show your dedication. The first has a definite ray of light quality while the second shows the light filtered through the boughs on the left. Really, truly amazing pieces each in their own way. ❤
Lovely paintings -- your art is always a Joy to see!
I enjoyed this tonthenpoint I watched it a couple of times 😊. It sparked lots of thoughts that Inneeded to sort out. I enjoyed the self Critique questions at the end, very useful to have a structure. These are valuable insights that gave me lots of issues to consider as I advance in painting. Thank you Sarah.
What a great video, Sarah,so much amazing food for thought! I really appreciate your transparency and can identify with so many of the things you said. Each time I pick up my brush, I try to remind myself that it’s only paint and paper, and the more of it I use the more I am reminded that I’m learning and improving. It’s hard to pick a favorite of your 2 paintings, as I truly love everything you paint, but it is lovely how the light filters through the forest in the second one, so I guess I’ll pick #2. 😘 Thank you for the time you invested in putting this video together. You are a blessing ❣️
They are both lovely but I really like the first painting. It feels more intuitive and less controlled. I do like the second one, too!😊
Heck yeah student for life! :D
I love the separation in the 1st pocbut the light effects of the 2nd
Thanks so much for this video! It resonates with me on so many levels. My plateaus can be uncomfortably long and I’m sure I’m going to pack it in; thankfulky, I don’t and forge ahead.
I loved this video because you pretty much said everything Im thinking of as an artist. I started in my 30s too and felt so behind in my skills development. I only recently got to a point whet, even though i still am working to get better, im seeing my art as its own think and not something comparable to others.
I love both❤ and as you said, a mix of both, the shining light on the trees and looseness from the second one and the structure and contrast from the more dry brushstrokes from the first one may be would be the perfect one, but each is unique and I like them…maybe one of the next postcards?😍
Yessss Perfect for postcard!
I'm just here because I love your channel, but I honestly cannot relate.
Whenever I finish a piece, even little sketches, I go back to it and I love it, because I made it. Why would I not love the drawings that have brought me joy while I did them? I see time well spent and a result that shows what I can do that I couldn't do a few years ago.
Negative thoughts just have no place in this.
I prefer the lifestream one. It almost feels like I can walk in there. I especially like the rendering of the forest floor. I also like that colors are more muted. I think less contrast also makes it more moody and forest-y. Normally I prefer bolder bigger brushstrokes but looking at this I’m realizing (mostly for myself) that one either has to choose bolder brushstrokes or higher contrast. Having both kinda ruins the feeling of "I could almost walk into the picture", I guess it’s distracting from the subject? Thank you so much for doing this double study, it made me realize many things in my own art.
Love your paintings and videos. I like the first painting better, but I agree that you captured the light on the trees beautifully in the second one.
I am an artist and a martial artist, and it is always surprising to me how much overlap there is in the mentality for each. I often find one thing to focus on when doing martial arts so I can improve, and this makes so much sense in your art practice as well. Also, keeping the "learning mentality" is important, and avoiding comparing yourself to others. (And of course, there is the muscle memory)
I think there is so much crossover between art and sport! I recently started golfing, and it is totally a metaphor for art 😂
I’m definitely with understanding that the sketchbooks are a place of practice not perfection
Beautiful!
I like the first one better but I see the light effect you were after in the second Thank you for sharing!
getting painty now! thank you
It is hard to embrace all aspects of painting at once... I can't paint for hours (I would be totally exhausted ;-)) I tend to pause all the time, I do the drawing and then sometimes days can go by before I get back to it. I think it is a "fear" thing but waiting in between helps me to focus on all aspects and making less "mistakes". One of my goals is to be able to be spontaneous and loose but still get good composition and correct value. My progress is slow because of all the pausing 😕but that's just the way it is 😅 Cheers Sarah and thanks for all the great and intelligent content 😊
Such a well rounded video. So helpful for a beginner for me. Liked the 3 questions to ask yourself after you finish a painting. I have those written down. I liked how you are realistic in your feedback, keep practicing over and over and get to know your supplies and then color theory etc. You truly inspire me in many ways! I just signed up for your monthly subscription. Best investment ever!
I hope you have a ton of fun learning gouache!!
Wow! I really needed to hear this!
I like them both, they're lovely.
First reaction: I prefer Study 1.
Upon reflection: I like both the dry-brush reality of #1 and the loose, ethereal quality of #2. Each fit a mood and have their place.
I like the first one! Prettier ❤
thank you for this overview. Unless I am really going to frame a picture I will actually write my comments on the picture itself. This stops me getting overconfident about I've done. I then pin it on my wall, and resist the painting process until I am happy. By writing on the painting it does mean I have to do it again.
That’s a great idea for keeping yourself motivated. I often write notes next to mine (along with color notes). It also helps the page feel less precious. It’s just a sketchbook after all!
Love this! Just what I needed to hear.
Hi Sarah I love the second painting loose and meaning full tfs sylvi 🎉🎉🎉
I would love to hear how your ocd shows up in your relationship and how you two work with it. Maybe on your other channel. In other words more details about managing thoughts.
I get really stuck in the thought of having to create a masterpiece every time I paint. I try to remember that doing is a lot better that perfection paralysis (not doing). Sometimes I just play with my colours and brushes. What shapes can this brush do if I press it towards the paper this way or that way. I get to learn my palette and my brushes.
Study 1… 💖
Regarding grey, keep in mind that women see more colour than men. When the gouache expert suggested you concentrate more on grey shadows, it's possible that he literally can't see the blues and purples in the shadows. I've noticed men often paint shadows in greyscale and use less vibrant colour in general, and scientists have found that men do not see colour as well as women. So male artists may simply be painting greys because they can't see the colours! And that's a deficit not an advantage!
I hadn’t heard this. I looked it up briefly-How interesting!!
Grab a cuppa😁
Don’t give up at the ugly stage, it will get better and if not it’s only paper. Just try again. Often it’s the enjoyment of the process and not the end result that’s important to me.
I am proud to say that I have no put paint in my drinking cup, or drank my paint water yet. But the one time I had tea on my desk with doing art I was super duper careful about it…. My water is always in a water bottle otherwise, and my paint wash cup has a silicone thing around the cup for hanging brushes, so it’s kinda hard to want to drink for that :P
I do it every once in a while but luckily I never drank it!!
Thank you. I needed this after I put 2 hours into a piece of junk yesterday. I was even following a tutorial and it still went so bad. 😢
It happens!! It's OK!
What type of pencil did you use to sketch the warm up?
Faber Castell Graphite Aquarelle
I was told you're aren't a professional artist until you have washed your brushes in your coffee/tea and tried to drink your paint water at least once. So I have been a professional artist for nearly two years now 😂
I don't know if it's an aphantasia thing or just an autistic brain thing but I struggle with painting the same thing over and over again as a practice. I just keep making the same mistakes. I seem to learn more by leaving my problem painting for a while and watching someone else paint something on UA-cam. They don't need to be using the same medium or painting the same type of subject. In fact I have a sneaky feeling that watching funny cat videos would work just as well 😂 It's like I need some time and space away from my work to be able to level up and I have no idea why that works for me. Maybe my brain just takes longer to process the initial lesson so repeating the lesson again too soon doesn't change anything?
Predictive text means some of my content looks rubbish😮. I repeat the painting process not resist it.
I know what you meant :)
When I read “…resist the painting process…” I thought, “Me too!” :-)