Scrape and Sniff
Why Scrape and Sniff? Ha! Hold on and I’ll share. But first, in case you’re new to this virtual space, here’s a bit more information about it. This is a place where, each week, I share my paintings, process, art history, and inspiration. Whether this is your first or millionth visit here, hiya, hello and a warm welcome! I choose a theme to guide my paintings each year. This year’s theme is Vessels, Views and Vistas. If you think your 2024 needs more color, consider subscribing to this blog. When you do, you will also receive a monthly newsletter called “Art In Real Life.” In it, I will share news about artwork and art walks that I have seen IRL (in real life). I hope you’ll subscribe here. Let’s get to this week’s view. OK?
What’s to Scrape
Here’s a good thing to share with you. I used to be so embarassed by this but…no more. I started a painting after trying all different kinds of compositions. And, I have the sketches to prove it. But! I just didn’t think the painting was working.
And, then, I started to feel cruddy. This may be hard to believe but painting is a pretty darn physical activity. So as my energy waned and I realize I may be getting a cold, I decide to scrape off a painting. Here’s a picture of that.
Was I sad? No! Actually I was relieved. Why? Because I just couldn’t figure out how to make the painting work in its current set up.
So? Well, first, here’s the painting scraped. And, no I’m not aspiring to paint abstract paintings like this. Heck! Abstract painters face the same challenges I do. If it’s not working, it’s not working. Here it is!
Next Up
What happened after that? I crawled into bed and slept. And, when I wasn’t sleeping or sniffing, I was doing one of my favorite things: flipping through art books in bed. Ahhh! Makes me realize I may want to do this sort of thing once a quarter or so.
I came back to the studio with fresh eyes and a new and different set up. But, remember last year’s theme? It was Time and Attention. I have learned that this painting adventure takes time. And, so I start a a few new paintings knowing that there’s no rush. And, I’ll share the outcome when they feel ready. How does that sound gentle reader?
What About You
Do you have the equivalent of scrapers in your creative world? If so, I would love to know. Please share in the comments below. I promise I’ll try not to sneeze while reading. HA!
9 Comments
Beth Clary
February 1, 2024Sure do. Had a goal of completing 3 different writing projects by today. Got 1 done. The other two are I think close but not quite right yet. And thanks to you for putting Rick Rubin’s book The Creative Act: A Way of Life in front of me I’m all the more compelled to wait and get something as close to “right” or “clear” as can be rather than launch it out there because of a deadline set by someone else … or me! Yours in developing patience!
Julie Holmes
February 1, 2024Hi Beth, Oh ya…welcome to the scrape club. Only I guess in writing world it’s “erase” or “crumple and toss?”
I’m finding myself referring to Rick Rubin’s book several times a week. It’s a fantastic source of inspiration and gentle but firm kick in the pants to carry on. Don’t ya know? Take care and thanks as always for reading and commenting here! xoxo
Alexandra
February 1, 2024I’m glad you’re feeling better, Julie! I’m also happy that the break gave you a fresh perspective. It makes perfect sense. I have also scraped down many a painting, which always feel painful to do at first since it’s done in the middle of frustration and disappointment. But, then the scraped down painting already somehow looks better to me. I can’t explain it but it seems to happen every time. I’m looking forward to seeing what emerges next on your reborn canvas! 🙂
Julie Holmes
February 1, 2024Hi Alexandra,
Thank you!!! The scrape down painting society is alive and well. It is so interesting how painful it can feel at first. And, then it’s just relief that that “thing” whatever it is…is gone! And, then the reborn new thing can be such a delight.
No word on that yet. Stay tuned! And, thank you for reading and commenting here. xoxo and paint on!!!
Alexandra
February 8, 2024xxoo 🙂
Julie Holmes
February 8, 2024xoxo;-D
Julie Dyer Holmes, Fine Artist More Whimsy - Julie Dyer Holmes, Fine Artist
February 7, 2024[…] may ask why whimsy? I say why not! After last week’s painting debacle and Covid crud, I sought out light and whimsical ideas and thoughts. What does that mean to me? […]
Kathy Michaud
March 10, 2024Hi Julie,
I’m late to the party here and I wanted to totally support your experiences here. I have found that trying to paint when I don’t feel well is a wasted effort. And then there’s the painting time when I’m not excited about the subject. I’m better off practicing washes or playing with mixed media.
Of course I don’t get to scrape off with watercolor, but taking a break and also reading art books or photographing beautiful things do get included in my definition of “ studio time”….creativity’s cycle.
Julie Holmes
March 11, 2024Hi Kathy, Thank you for sharing your experience with painting here.
I have found that mine flows with a tendency to be super critical (necessary but wearing). And, there tends to be a breakthrough after I have critical days. Which is really wonderful.
And, there is also a wonderful timeless feeling when I have to concentrate while painting. So, for me, it’s actually very therapeutic to step up to the easel.
Lots o love along the creative path to youuu xoxo