Saturday, September 20, 2008

Dear Readers,

For years I have been teaching art classes to both novice and seasoned artists. During that time I have seen a pattern form in the evolution of each artist and although it started as a list more tongue in cheek than serious I soon found that the "Rules" for my painting classes became a standard of teaching that each of my students clung to. So by popular demand I am now putting the rules to paper and explaining the reasoning behind each of them.
Over the next couple of months I will be looking at each of the rules in further detail but not always in any particular order so stay tuned to this blog for more details. I invite your questions and comments as we discover the art of what works and what doesn't.

Rules for Painting…
and life



1. There are No Rules (Just really good advice)
To quote Monet, “I neglect the rules of painting in order to paint what I feel”

2. If it works, Keep Doing it

3. If it’s not working, Stop Doing it !!!!

4. Get a Second opinion
But only from someone you trust to tell the truth

5. Knowledge doesn’t guarantee results
The secret is make your art, good, bad or indifferent make it!

6. Creativity needs the company of creativity
Feed your need to talk about and make art with other people who need to talk about
and make art. Experience the phenomenon of symbiotic creative resonance.

7. Challenge yourself, and you will grow
Take a step outside your comfort zone!

8. Creativity needs exercise daily

9. If you think you know it all, sorry you don’t!
Every day of your life there is something new to learn.
There is no age limit on acquiring new skills or knowledge.

10. Believe in your dreams!!

Sandra Taylor/Hedges
Copyright 2006 by Artist S. Taylor