Start Painting! Enough Overthinking

How to express myself as an artist? What is my message? Have I done justice to the subject?
What if I am making a fool of myself?

These questions and many more stalk every artist. It is no little thing to put your work before others with not a care for the reaction. In truth it is an achievement to get that far. Many do not even begin to create their art. The hurdle of doubt is too high. 

The saying goes that if you think it then it already exists. If you do not believe you can paint then that is so. You will not paint. If you stall at the point of starting and quit then you will never know. Could the work really be beyond you? 

I hear it from many artists who struggle to get started. No time, no talent, no support, no space and on it goes. These are serious thoughts that must be faced like the school yard bully. Not to means defeat and regret. This is no way to live. Face the thoughts - shine light upon them and see them for what they are. Fearful ideas that pretend to be real and scary, but like the bully, are sent scampering when called out.

Take action today!
If you want to paint then begin this weekend with these three action steps:

1. Find a spot to set up your easel so that you see it ready and waiting. Try to use a place where you can leave the easel so that it is easy to resume painting. This is important.
2. Use what you have. Try not to worry about having the best materials. The basics like a brush, the primary colors and white and a canvas will be enough to start. If you have more than this then you are more than ready.
3. Learn as you go. Yes self-doubt will encourage you to wait for a workshop with your favorite artist. No matter how long it takes. Rather start now. You can take an online course in the evening and paint in the morning. Or pause the course and paint. Begin

There it is. No complication or overthinking required. Only good old fashioned work and a can-do spirit.

Let me know how it goes. Okay?