What should artists do with our old artwork? Should you paint over an old painting? Should you rework an old painting to make it appear new?
If you are anything like me, you probably have some older paintings stacked in your back room.
Maybe you want to save some money and think one day you will paint over them.
Maybe you like some parts of the painting, or you have worked really hard on it, or you have an emotional attachment to it. So you keep them, hoping one day you will make them shining and perfect.
I know some artists can get great results by reworking their older paintings. But I have concluded that it is not my thing.
I have tried hard to adjust some of my older paintings to fit into my new style and vision. But it has rarely worked out.
And that is fine because it’s evidence that you, as an artist, have progressed a long way on your art journey.
As for painting over the whole artwork, I have found it involves too many elements. For example, I must ensure the original oil paint is dried. Or the surface will crack over time. And oil paintings can take years to dry thoroughly!
So for me, it isn’t worth the time and energy.
Dear friend, I encourage you; December is a great time to check on your old artwork.
You can keep the paintings that mark the milestones In your art life.
But don’t feel bad about
throwing out your old works. You can leave room for new paintings and keep your workspace more organized.
Most importantly, by cleaning up your physical space, you will have a clearer mental space too. You will have the mental clarity for new ideas and new techniques and explore new styles in the new year!
Because art is an adventure!
Check out this post for planning your art for next year:
Cheer you on!
Ying
