One of the most common questions that Lorelei Linklater is asked as an artist is how an individual can improve their painting skills. Lorelei acknowledges that every artist is different, and what works for one may not work for others. Still, there are many different principles that artists can pull from if they become frustrated or feel stagnant on their artistic journey. Here, Lorelei Linklater provides examples of just a few ways that painters can improve on their skills as they work to create their best art yet.
 
Create a Workspace Tailored to Your Needs as an Artist
 
Lorelei Linklater recognizes that our environments play an integral role in the art that we create. If you find that your painting skills are not improving in the way that you would like, it may help to think critically regarding your current workspace. Some of us create better art in a somewhat cluttered environment, while some prefer an organized workspace that puts them in the mental space to focus on art rather than messes. Of course, there are some aspects of a workspace that artists seem unified on. For example, ensuring paintbrushes are washed, materials are easy to find, and that lighting is good are just a few examples. Find what works for you and make sure that your work environment suits your needs- you would be surprised what effect it can have on what you create!
 
Practice Often
 
Art skills are similar to other talents in experience can only improve on our foundational skills. This is true even if we have a natural affinity out the gate. Think about watching a sporting event such as an NBA game. What we see are people that are at the upper echelon of the sport battling it out against each other. Of course, what we do not see is all of the hard work that it took to hone those skills even if some of the talent was natural. The art world is no different. Artists that use their resources to their fullest extent to create art that truly makes us think and feel were not made overnight. Hours of practice, ebb and flows of motivation, and mistakes happened along the way. It can always be helpful to learn principles that will help you improve your art, but nothing will be better at helping you develop as an artist than practicing often.
 
Find Your Inspiration
 
Inspiration is a phenomenon that is coveted in the art world, and for a good reason. Inspiration helps us create projects that we feel connected to- which are often are our best work. Lorelei Linklater always recommends that new artists find what inspires them and pushes them to create great art. This helps painters realize their motivations as an artist while honing their skills to develop their own style and aesthetic. Many new artists find inspiration from other, more experienced artists- which is great! But it is important to remember that our individual journey as an artist does not need to be full of comparisons to others. What works for some will not work for all, and that is why it is crucial to find out what inspires you. Keep in mind that inspiration does not always need to be a lightening in a bottle moment. When you know what motivates you to perform at your best and keep at your work, you can tap into your artistic inspiration much more easily and efficiently.