MASTERCLASS
4
SQUINT
Are you creating everything with too much clarity and
detail? It is one of the biggest killers of loose and free
artwork. If you create every aspect of your paintings or drawings
in highly focused detail, they can often become tight, static
and lifeless. The power of squinting is an effective tool that
eliminates the unnecessary details and helps you focus on the
larger masses you do need.5
WORK WITH CONFIDENCE
Are you working hesitantly? Try to approach your work with
more confidence. Be sure of your ability, curiosity and
interest to see what happens when you work with your materials.
Producing a work of art is both a liberating and terrifyingexperience. Try to embrace working with different materials
or in a style that is new – you have nothing to lose. If you approach
your work with nerves and hesitancy, you will almost inevitably
create a nervous painting. And so it goes that, if you approach your
work with confidence and gusto, you’ll create a confident painting.3
STAND BACK
Are you painting with
your nose against the
canvas? Be mindful to stand
back from your work as
often as possible. If your
painting will have the
pleasure of hanging on
someone’s wall, it will rarely
be looked at up close, so it
makes sense to paint and
view it from the distance
most people will see it.
The theory of standing back
should also make you
realise what is important
and stop you overworking
areas that may not need it.>Artists & Illustrators 7574 Peter Keegan.indd 75 06/04/2017 16:26