There are no shortcuts to learning; you have to put in the time. Photo courtesy of Art Escapes Italy — a fantastic place to learn.
Reflecting on time set aside for learning, the one thing I can say is that there are no shortcuts. To make great art, one has to simply put in the time to learn. No one would ever sit down at a piano and expect to know how to play it, having never learned the scales. That’s the key to anything: “learn the scales” and practice. So where to begin if painting is what you desire to do? Videos, books and classes.
My mentors all have fabulous videos available from their websites and YouTube. I have found Robert Burridge in particular to be a gracious and giving teacher. His videos are fantastic and he sends out a mini video to his mailing list every Monday. Sign up at www.robertburridge.com.
See below for details on how to paint with me in Northern Michigan this month!
Sterling Edwards is a master watercolorist and has wonderful videos and a very helpful book available on his website: sterlingedwards.com.
The most helpful books I’ve found are:
- “Alla Prima II Everything I Know About Painting and More”
- “Carlson’s Guide to Landscape Painting”
- “The Creative Habit” by Twyla Tharp
That should get you started! Now, I’d like to invite you to come study with me as well. I’ll be teaching two classes this month in Traverse City for TC Uncorked. Click here for the info.
Hope to see you there!
Cheers,
Stephanie
