Finding Yourself in Your Subject

Can’t find the right subject matter? Look inward instead of outward.

We can only paint what we truly connect with. Not all readily available subject matter presents itself to us as interesting enough to paint at first glance. Therefore, it is important to seek new eyes than to seek new subjects. It can only be done when we look within and reflect upon what really matters most in our lives.

Personalize the subject matter is the goal and that is to  find yourself in your subject. In other words, select things that you can relate to. When an artist finds him or herself reflected in things of interest it’s easier to paint. The relationship is key to your success as an impressionist painter. Select a reference point the affects you inwardly. All the things that make up your character are the lens that you select and transmit your special subject matter. You must be self-aware and courageous to show what's really important to you.

Painting from personalized subject matter will make your art highly distinctive.

Go out, let the world speak to you

While I am out scouting for a subject to paint, I use the “gazing method.” Gazing is a form of visual contemplation. Out there, I scan across the horizon, opening myself to allow the world to speak to me. There I wait for the aaaahhhaa moment.

It takes time to develop a relationship with a new person, so it also takes time to find a subject we can communicate with and it with us. This communication happens through our perceptions, feelings, and mindset. Something touches us, and we may not know what or why.

The Impressionists pondered how light transcended matter as it changed throughout the day.

Ask questions.

·      What is light? What does the light mean to me? 

·      Where would we be without the light?

·      How is the light speaking to me now?

Ask a greater question, and you will receive a greater answer.

Changing your perspective changes the matter of the subject matter. Imagine looking at an apple as a scientist, or reimagine the apple as a poet or as a playwright, or how a saint would perceive the apple. This is the beginning of finding yourself in your subject.

In other words, select things that you can relate to. When an artist finds him or herself reflected in things of interest, it’s easier to paint. The relationship is key to your success as an impressionist painter. Select a reference point that affects you most inwardly.

Painting from personalized subject matter will make your work highly distinctive. For this to happen focus on what matters most and let go of what matters least.