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Like many artists, I often lose my love for a painting halfway through. The canvas no longer matches the vision in my mind, or I’ve stared at it so long I can’t see it clearly. This struggle is part of my creative process, and I’ve learned to navigate it—sometimes with a glass of wine in hand.
At the end of a painting day, I carry my canvas to an easel in my living room, where soft light pours through a large window. Relaxing with a glass of wine, I study the work. The wine doesn’t fix the flaws, but it helps me spot areas to refine. Painting is its own reward, especially when I’m in the flow, but some pieces, like Clearing by The Muddy River, test my patience and resist my effort.
Inspired by a photo I took from a trip to Big Sky Montana, this painting (16 x 20 Oil on Panel), with its tranquil greens and shimmering muddy river, began with promise but lost its spark midway. I was challenged by painting the light I was infusing in the clearing around the Elk and the painting of the Elk themselves. Frustrated, I set it aside for months. Over time, I began to see it in a fresh light, I rediscovered its calm beauty. Now, it’s live at RBChristianArtist.com.
I’d love to hear your thoughts—does this painting evoke calm for you, or something else? If you’re an artist, share a piece you’ve wrestled with but later loved in the comments. And if this story resonates, tag me on facebook or share it with a friend!
