What do you see?
Nicole Palmer
When I began painting 11 years ago, my job as I saw it, was to paint an exact likeness of what was in front of me. That was ok, because you first need to learn how to paint. That is not a quick journey, but I have loved every step along the way.
Now when I see something which I would like to use as a springboard for a painting, I say to myself, 'what can I do with this?'. The goal has changed from replication to imagination. This path is much more energizing than the first one, yet it probably separates most artists from the hobbyists to the professionals. I now see myself in the latter category.
I mentally categorize the images below as 'what I saw' and 'what I painted'. My hope is that the transition brings a smile to your face.
Cheers!
Rick
