Some paintings are more than paintings

As an artist, inspiration often comes from the most unexpected places. For me, it was a tribute to one of my favorite villains from pop culture that led to my latest painting, “Harley Girl.” But what happened after the painting was completed is what truly made it special.

My daughter, who is only 7 but already has an eye for art and a mind of her own, wanted to see my newest painting. After the mandatory “ooh’s” and “aah’s,” she excitedly pointed out all of the things that could have been better. And, I actually agreed with her.

As an artist, I usually don't touch a piece after I've decided it's done. But I saw this as an opportunity to not only improve my painting but also give my daughter some confidence in her own artistic abilities.

So, she watched as I made the various adjustments and even helped me pick some of the colors. It was a beautiful moment of bonding and learning, and it made the painting even more special to me.

This experience reminded me that art is not just about the finished product, but also about the process and the journey. It's about connecting with others and finding inspiration in unexpected places. And it's about having the humility to learn and grow, even from a 7-year-old.

So, take a look at the before and after photos of my latest painting, and see how many changes you can spot that my daughter helped me make. It may seem like a small thing, but to me, it represents a meaningful and unforgettable moment in my artistic journey.

Harley Girl before and after

Before (left) and After (right) of “Harley Girl” - pastel - 12”x15”

Previous
Previous

The Power of a Frame

Next
Next

Nate