I bought “On becoming a Successful Artist” by Lewis Lehrman a long time ago. It was my artist bible. About 20 artists were interviewed about how they made it as artists. Each one was interviewed separately, but their answers were very similar. One thing that always stuck out in my mind was the belief in significance of “tenacity over talent.” I really took that to heart, and decided to put in the work. I call it “miles on the brush.” There are no shortcuts to getting good.
Love, love, love her paintings!
Straight talk … to the point. Love it, Bev!
Great advice!
Lots of people have talent. But that is not enough. Good advice
Bev is right. For so long, I could “see” the paintings I thought I was capable of doing. But it has been only through countless hours of study and practice and painting that I have been able to improve and begin to inch closer to where I wish to be.
Everyone has talent, it just depends where they choose to develop it. Art, cooking, construction, selling, caring for children, ministering.
Wherever one chooses to apply his talent, it takes lots of effort, lots of learning, lots of practice, lots of time invested to become skilled and proficient. And to learn how to express yourself through that medium.
Bev, I also use that saying when people ask how long it took to get where I am, and they wish they were at that point…I tell them it takes years of practice and miles on the brush. (I am by no means where I wish to be yet either! Many more miles and brushes to wear through.)
It is sound advice, Bev, and so is the recommended book. Thank you for sharing.
SO true! BIG hugs Bev!
Thanks Bev for an exciting four days at the Montana Watercolor Society workshop in Kalispell, Montana. Watching you paint was a ballet of the brush. You are an inspiration and our mentor.
That is such a great painting, the cat is so purfect. 🙂