For many artists, creating and letting a paintbrush flow through your fingers may be getting a little paint on your hands is delightful. 

At that moment, your mind is free, not thinking about anything else.

When paint and canvas meet, creativity begins. The outcome is unknown; the colors selected, a brush in hand, and the magic begins.

How long will it take you, and how many interruptions will you have? Will you be able to paint and keep working until you finish? 

What will the finished painting become?

A lot of uncertainties for a painter.

For some, it is relaxing. It opens the mind, focusing on creativity, not what is happening around you. It may be a great way to unwind and relieve stress.

I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with an outstanding painter named Faye.

Retiring after many years in retail, she has enjoyed painting, reading, and volunteering at her church.

How did Faye learn to Paint?

While caring for her husband, Faye found joy in painting. Her church offered painting classes.

They provided lessons every week, with no commitment; just come and paint for a small fee. 

She needed a way to relax and care for herself, so she decided to join the class.

She has been coming back ever since to learn and socialize with other artists.

They share ideas and techniques on what they have learned from watching YouTube or taking additional classes from neighboring towns. 

If another city offered a class on a method she wanted to know more about, she signed up, took the course, then shared what she learned with others.

Have You Ever….

Forgotten to look at the clock and see how many hours you have been sitting in one place?

She said that is what happens to her when the paintbrush gets in her hand.  All she thinks about is paintings.

She even forgot to watch a show on tv because she was busy painting.

Looking thru her window, nature all around, a paintbrush in hand, you can not help to be inspired

What does she Paint?

Faye paints with meaning and purpose. Her paintings are beautiful.

Her goal was to visit all 50 states; after accomplishing her dream, she put her memories on canvas. Then created a book of travels and paintings.

Something she will cherish forever.

Can you teach yourself to Paint?

The answer is yes.

Suppose you want to avoid attending a class and want to learn on your own. Faye said to go to www.youtube.com, search how to paint for beginners, and watch a few videos.

She said you would need patience and a lot of practice to teach yourself. 

Painting with both acrylic and oil. Faye said oil moves smother works better but will dry slower than acrylic. 

You must decide what you want to paint with oil or acrylic paint. She recommended starting with acrylic and then trying the oil.

She did say if she is not satisfied with a painting, she paints over it with another design. 

I should have asked if that was oil, acrylic, or both that she painted over.

Supplies

You will need paint, brushes, water, and a canvas.

A beginner’s painting set is something to consider. The paint will dry out, so be sure to purchase them unopened.

If you are serious and want to try painting, invest in yourself. 

When purchasing a paintbrush, only spend a little until you know if you enjoy painting.  

Canvas comes in all sizes, so choose how small or large you want to start with and shop around for suitable canvas.

Always clean your brush and close your paint; they will dry out.

Start small and see where it goes.

What are you waiting for? 

Don’t you think it would be fun to spend your day with the sun shining in your window, a paintbrush in your hand, and time standing still? Can you picture it?

Maybe a way to relax; who knows? Only you and time can tell.

Look into taking a class at your local church, community center, arts and craft store, art council, or maybe youtube.com. 

Always ask when searching for classes what supplies you need. You never know; they might provide what you need to try it.

Seventy-four years young, Faye has found her perfect hobby. I do think yours is right around the corner.

Keep searching; you never know what hobby you will find in retirement.

Until next time.