Artists

76 Artists & IllustratorsMASTERCLASSThere are times when paintings take a bad turn,when the euphoria disappears and you feel defeated,like a beginner. This is one of the most difficult parts ofthe process, but therein lies the answer – it is just partof the process. Remind yourself that you’ve been herebefore, and things will come right.To emphasise this, I make a habit of stacking thefinished paintings that I think are successful aroundme in the studio, so that Ican look for inspiration inmy own completed work.Before I end a session, Idevise a plan for what Iwant to do next, and findmyself mulling this overwhen I’m elsewhere – inthe shower, or while cooking. This breeds a sense ofurgency to get back and resolve the painting.Finishing a painting can be like finishing a great book- you’re not quite ready to move on. This is whenprocrastination can set in and, in the absence of aproject to work on, procrastination can quickly turn toself-doubt. The simplest and most effective remedy forthis is to have more than one painting on the go at anytime. This means that when you get stuck you can turnto a different work, and when you finish a painting, youaren’t left with the sense of having to start again. Finally, when struggling to get going or to findinspiration for whatever reason, try to keep a graphic journal about your life, much as writers use a journal to get their thoughts flowing. Doing this is not only highly therapeutic, but lets you reconnect your feelings and your creative hand in a context free from the pressure of serious work. You should value anything that reminds you that the reason you are making art, is because you want to. http://www.susannedutoit.comSUSANNE’S TOP TIPS FOR STUDIOPRODUCTIVITY- Get into good habitsFind a few simple rituals that help you get focused,whether it be putting on a work shirt, listening to acertain piece of music, or collecting your thoughtsby making notes. These are like triggers that weassociate with being productive.- Take a breakSpend at least one day a week working orresearching away from your studio so that youcome back with fresh perspective.- Keep things movingHave more than one painting on the go at anytime, so that you don’t start to drift when you’restuck or finished with a painting.- Trust the processRemember that you have worked your way throughproblems before, and you can do it again.HIGH RISEKeep a record of successfulworks by stacking finishedpaintings in your studio, thisway you can reference themwith ease``````ABOVE Thinking deeply, oil oncanvas, 75x154cm``````Obviously habits and routines form part of the widerquestion of discipline. You develop them as part of along-term, consistent practice. Most artists agree thatit’s a good idea to treat your work like any otherprofession and turn up each morning for work. Even ifyou’re not feeling particularly inspired, the act of goinginto your studio, just to see what happens or to reflecton your work, is good for your sense of resolve.It is important, though, not to let discipline becomean obstacle or a sense of obligation that confinesfreedom and creativity. You could think of discipline asa commitment to yourself. Furthermore, getting awayfrom the studio at least once a week is important too.This allows you to come back to your work with fresheyes, new inspiration, and new solutions. Spend a daysketching somewhere else, or visiting galleries.``````FINISHING A PAINTING CANBE LIKE FINISHING A GREATBOOK, YOU’RE NOT QUITEREADY TO MOVE ON74 Studio Motivation.indd 76 08/06/2016 12:04