Brush Mileage.

Do all the work you can; that is the whole philosophy of the good way of life. 

(Eugene Delacroix)

  There’s nothing better than brush mileage. I read that in a wonderful interview with Elizabeth O"Reilly here. That statement in some version has been made by all types of artists. The longer that I paint, the more I understand what that idea of miles of work done on canvas is the best way to discover, for oneself, the personal meaning of the work and the possible avenues open to bring that meaning to expression as a painting. Not a complete work, not a beautiful work necessarily, but something that can communicate an idea. 

From Kevin Macpherson:
Paint, Paint, Paint
  The more you paint, the faster you progress. Progress is evolution, searching, exploration of different ways to express yourself. Sometimes you touch a new high or a new low, but always keep reaching for that elusive best. Never stop learning and being curious. You might think that, once and artist "makes it" it is smooth sailing. On the contrary, you must always refresh your mind and body and seek ways to express and improve your craft. The best formula for a successful painting career is persistence. Harness your natural enthusiasm for what you do. Dedicate yourself to art.

From Richard Schmid:
  No matter how skillful you are, the painting never gets easy. Painting remains so demanding because as you improve, your results will grow more rewarding, which will push you to increase your skill. It is the carrot and stick routine: you can never quite catch up because the demands of painting will always remain greater than your expertise.

  Here is a small painting from my snow series this month-part of the efforts with brush mileage!

Lyle in Winter 8" x 8"

This painting and other small works are the focus of my other blog, "Fresh Paint"  check it out here.

Richard Schmid's website.
Kevin Macpherson's website.