This Post is by Keith Bond, Regular contributing writer for FineArtViews. Find out how you can be a guest author
In his book, Capturing Light in Oils, the late (and great) artist, Paul Strisik wrote:
Painters mature in a slow and natural way. . . . It may take ten years to develop your skills. But nothing is lost, for you've still lived all those years. The painting you do five years from now can only be done five years from now. You can't rush it, and it can't be done tomorrow.
When I first read this several years ago, I set out to prove Paul Strisik wrong. At the time, I think I understood and knew what he was saying had truth to it, but I didn't have the patience to accept it. In fact, I still don't have much patience in terms of my progression. I want to paint better now. I don't want to have to wait 5 years!
However, as I am now more experienced and have been painting full time for 10 years, I have a better appreciation for Paul Strisik's insight. You cannot rush the natural development and maturity. There are several reasons that I have come to understand. There are probably more that I will yet learn.
Artistic maturity is different than merely learning how to paint. Though learning to paint is an important element, there is much more. Maturity involves learning what to paint. It also includes having had experiences to relate to; experiences which have formed your opinions, your likes, your passions, your dislikes, your frustrations, etc., etc., etc. The more of life you experience, the more insights you have. More insight leads to painting with more conviction and authority. The more strongly a subject is felt, the more powerfully it can be expressed through paint. As Paul Strisik stated, "…you've still lived all those years." Those years of experience shape who you are and influence what and how you see the world, and ultimately what and how you paint. So, just experience life. Have fun in the process. Viva la Vida! Just don't forget to paint while you are living.
Just a few thoughts about the 'learning how to paint' part of the formula: although you cannot rush the process, but I believe strongly that it is very possible to postpone progress. In fact, I would argue that most of us do not progress as quickly as our potential would allow. For that reason, I strive to push myself as much as I can to improve my skills. I want to reach the next level sooner rather than later. Yes, I am impatient! I feel that time is too short to achieve where I want to be. What I see in my mind is far beyond what I am currently capable of. Ahh, the frustrations of being an artist! Never satisfied.
I only wish that I had begun earlier. I would be just that much further along – or would I? I didn't have those important life experiences earlier – those experiences which have shaped my voice, my purpose, my passion for art. Who knows where I would be, had I begun earlier. I don't really care, because I am completely happy with where I am now … well, for the moment … if only I were just a little better …!
Sincerely,
Keith Bond
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