It's something artists tackle every day - how can we be fearless when creating art? How do we create art with reckless abandon without overstepping and creating pieces that won't generate any interest? The opposite is also possible, making art that seems average without any risk. These pieces will not stand out from the crowd. Where is the balance?
I saw a Monet exhibition at the de Young museum lately. I was astounded by his balance of skilled art techniques and fearless choices. Peaceful, beautifully painted works would have areas with startling risks. A tree with hints of unexpected colors. A smooth painting punctuated with moments of extreme texture. Carefully mixed colors were next to paint straight from the tube. I don't have all the answers, but I know I want my risks to resemble his.
Think about the art you are making in your studio right now, do you have a challenge you are working on? What are your safest and riskiest pieces? Do you properly balance risk in your artwork? I mentioned in a previous blog that I try to start a piece that is more challenging at the beginning of each month. This gives me an official opportunity each month to consider what I need to keep slowly pushing my art to the next level. I had a hard time building a series for a long time. Now that I have a solid series going the next step is making sure it does not hit a rut. If I could only paint flowers every day, it would be far too tempting for me! Reminding myself of the need for challenge and risk to grow as an artist has to be consistent.
A great action step for growth is to reflect monthly on your current artwork and ask yourself where you need to grow. Then start a piece designed to work on those skills. If you need to improve on your values, start a monochromatic painting where you can focus on intense values. If you need to focus on painting what you see, set up a still life and practice being as accurate as possible. Reflect on your art and challenge yourself - be fearless.