I have something to confess—I was not always a planner.
I used to believe— an artist should follow her passion and, when an inspiration came, just put it on the canvas. 

Surely this approach will suit many artists. But not me! As a result, many paintings from years ago still lay around in my studio, waiting to be repainted. 

“Fail to plan, plan to fail” is a time-tested pearl of wisdom. Click here to read my five tips for setting your creative goals 

So I want to share a simple three-step guide with you to plan your next painting. I hope you will avoid making the same mistakes I use to make.

Step One:

Capture your inspiration

All great art starts with an idea.  

How to find the idea?  

One way is to pay attention to your thoughts. A thought could come when you read a book, a magazine, viewing other artists’ works or taking a stroll in nature. You can even find your inspiration in your dreams. 

Write down your idea in your notes or your sketch pad.  And let it marinate in your mind.

When the 2020 pandemic came, I was inspired to paint women’s figures underwater. I let that idea sit in my mind for a couple of weeks until the visions became crystal clear. I knew in my heart what feelings I wanted to convey to the viewers. Then I started planning.  See my painting:  https://yingmclane.com/product/edge-of-the-light-figerative-realistic-oil-painting/

Not all of your ideas will translate into a viable painting. In fact, you will find the majority of them will lose their initial luster over time.  And it’s totally ok. It’s a normal process of creating something worthwhile.  

Another way is knowing what you want to paint first and finding images to fit your ideas.  

When I started to paint the Fort Myers Beach series, I searched for many reference photos. And I finally decided on five of them.  See my post:

Ask yourself:  how do you know you have a viable painting idea?  

When you feel you can see the final product in your mind and can tell a story about it, or you can describe the feelings or mood you want to convey to the viewers, then you have a viable idea. 

I’d love to hear about your next painting project, please share with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yingmclane/

If you haven’t join my private Facebook group, click https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437940910025060

Stay tuned for part two in the new year!

Ying

The post <strong>A three-step guide to planning a successful painting (part one) </strong> appeared first on Ying McLane.

I was always more of an impulsive decision-maker than a meticulous goal-setter.

But the older I got, the more I realized how helpful and essential it is to set my goals far in advance. It keeps me focused and organized.

I have five tips to share with you:

1: Don’t be afraid to dream.

Self-confidence comes from doing things you are afraid to do. You may be afraid to fail or afraid of what others will think. The quicker you get yourself out of your comfort zone, the more possibilities you will see in front of your eyes.

2: Establish “space” for your goals.

You will need a physical space, like your workspace, but also a mental space for your goals. Once you set your plan, draw a clear boundary around it. Maybe you have to pass on some party invites or your favorite TV show… prepare upfront what you have to give up, and you will have an easier time sticking to your goals.

3: Make an achievable plan.

Dreaming big is good, but achievability is more critical. Feel free to adjust your goals. There is no shame in modifying your goals as you implement them.

4: Attach every goal with a deadline.

Self-impose accountability. Without a deadline, it’s easier to find excuses for not reaching your goals.

After you try your best, you may still miss the deadline.  Don’t worry, think of how much you’ve grown through the process. The goal is to keep you a self-starter.

5: Find an accountability partner.

Two are better than one. Find a family member or friend to share your goals. And check in with each other once every month or so.

check out this post for more self-motivation tips. https://yingmclane.com/have-you-written-a-note-to-yourself/

I hope 2023 will bring you many blessings and happiness!!

Ying

The post <strong>Five Tips for Setting Your Creative Goals for 2023</strong> appeared first on Ying McLane.