Just Keep Painting

Once there is an image in my head I have to paint it. A little sketch to solidify it usually helps all the swirling going on in my head. Then, choose a size to paint. Next, tone the canvas with a wash of color. Unlike watercolor, acrylic and oil painters usually don’t want the sparkle of white peaking through. For this orchid painting I used metallic bronze, not a common underpainting.

Then, like most artists, I go through the cycle of, “ok, not bad, ew, I’m I genius, why do I think I could ever paint!, ok, yes, I’m happy with that.” It’s a real roller coaster.

I’ve learned that when I think that’s good enough a yellow flag goes up and I just keep painting. It’s not done until I’m happy.

This is my final painting for the Greater Lansing Orchid Society Show at MSU. We’ll see what the judges think and how the public responds this weekend.

February 28, 11–5, and March 1, 11–4, at the Plant and Soil Science Conservatory on the Michigan State University campus.