Opalescent Dusk - Show Tip #12

Opalescent Dusk, 24 x 30, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2016

Sold in Solo Show, "Chasing Color, Finding Light", Davis Gallery

This misty Hill Country day was challenging... until that dropping sun peaked out. And then, wow, what a reward! The heavy atmosphere brought on a pink shimmer and a quietness that was completely unexpected. My plein air piece captured the other part of the day... cold and flat. Thank goodness for a camera and a very memorable moment! 

Show Tip #12 - Know When to Quit

What I mean by that is... sometimes we over-work. Salespeople call it "selling through the close". This happens when the sale is made but the pitch-giver goes on, actually confusing the situation. I see this in myself and other painters when we don't know when to quit. Sometimes we need to stop because the day is just over. We are tired and depleted of the energy required to make good decisions. But way more often, we need to put down the brushes completely, because a painting is simply done... finished. At that point, to keep painting is to keep "selling", and that can kill the deal so to speak. A good practice is to slow down as you are finishing. Step back a lot, and when in doubt, stop for awhile. Come back with fresh eyes and a discerning heart. 

Here are links to other Show Tips:

Tip #1 - Stock up on Supplies
Tip #2 - Set up Deadlines
Tip #3 - Determine Subject Matter

Tip #4 - Work in Series

Tip #5 - Establish a Schedule

Tip #6 - Be Kind to YOU

Tip #7 - Follow your Heart

Tip #8 - Stay Flexible

Tip #9 - Whistle While You Work

Tip #10 - Fight Through Fears

Tip #11 - Take Notes

Painters - join me at this Plein Air Workshop:

April 28-30, Anderson Fine Art Gallery, St. Simons Island, GA

Contact Info: Mary Anderson, 912-634-8414