The Road Artfully Traveled

A painting in progress that's undergone many changes with more to come
©Theresa Grillo Laird-oil on canvas - 24x36

One of my favorite things about a road trip, is exploring the unexpected side paths. The restored village that lies down a little traveled road in a tranquil valley, or the cliff top hiking trail in a woods full of golden light would never be found driving form A to B in the fastest way possible. My heart smiles remembering the sights that have filled my artist's well that I'd have missed if I didn't allow for exploration.

A painting in progress brings the same expectation of discovery. To watch a painting unfold under the brush with no demand of what it's supposed to become, is pure joy! What magical effects emerge so effortlessly! On the other hand, wrestling with a painting and with the pressure of measuring up to some preconceived notion of what it should look like, or what you should be able to do, can make you feel like you never want to pick up your brushes again.

The next time you you're ready to fling your painting into the bushes, take a deep breath and remember what a very talented artist told me-  painting is a great way to experience life! 
Embrace the experience!