53-A TREE IS NOT A TREE

To paint a thing, I have to see it with innocent eyes; eyes like a baby. No labels, no bias, no preconceived notions, no judgements, no preferences. I can’t paint a tree, I have to paint a combination of shapes and assign value and color to them. I’m creating an illusion of a tree, not a tree.

I can’t paint a tree, I can only paint a shape that takes on a particular contour and has an overall value and an overall color. It might sit in the light in a certain way and I really can’t even make a judgment about the light either. I have to take all notions and language out of the process. I have to see the thing as though I’ve never seen anything like it ever before.
And I have to be enchanted by this interaction! Otherwise, why would I paint it?
As we move through our everyday lives, we seldom let ourselves look through an unfiltered view of things. We filter everything we see, do and say through a lens of past experience and what we think we know. We often look through a lens of fear and insecurity that holds us back from seeing things as they truly are.

As painters this can make us muddled and confused. We think we have to paint in a certain way and then we tend to make rules of thumb into RULES. Taking too many workshops or listening too intently to the thousand voices telling us how to paint, can keep us from listening to our own true voice as a painter. We make hay with the “shoulds” and the “nevers” and push away the “What if’s”. We think way too much.

At one point or another one must try to see clearly and then be brave. There are many, many things that are much scarier than painting. There are many things worse than wasting an expensive piece of paper or canvas. What is very scary is to go through ones life as an artist and never have put down an authentic mark; your own mark.
I came across this sign when I was in Cape Cod a few years back. It is a beautiful description of the innocent eye!

 

The more I grow as an artist, the more I know to embody what I know but not think about what I know! Watch my video on the stages of learning… I mention unconcious conciousness. I guess that’s what I mean! And staying connected to the joy of creating rather than the “shoulds”.

With Warmest Regards,
Marla

Painting Minilessons
with Marla Baggetta

My free online minilessons in art are a fantastic way to learn more about your craft, regardless of your skill level. There are lessons available on everything from basic drawing techniques to complex painting methods, and no matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. Whether you’re a beginner who’s just starting out, or a seasoned artist who wants to brush up on your skills, these minilessons are a great resource. These lessons are available anytime, anywhere. So whether you’re looking for a quick refresher or want to explore something new, be sure to check out some of my minilessons at Painting Lessons with Marla.

Recent Minilessons

Follow Us

Sign Up For Minilessons

Be the first to know when a new miniliesson and new courses are released!

Scroll to Top