Stepping Into the Unknown: My 30-Year Journey Without an Easel

Stepping Into the Unknown: My 30-Year Journey Without an Easel (Until Now)

For the past 30 years, I’ve never painted on an easel. Yep, you heard that right. My entire art career has been built around painting on walls, floors, and tables—any surface that allowed me to move freely and work on multiple pieces at once. This has been my artistic language. Even in college, I asked my professors for walls instead of easels. It’s what I knew, what felt right, and where my creativity thrived.

But this year, something changed. I felt the need to shake things up in my studio. So, I went out and bought my first-ever easel. That’s right—after decades of creating without one, I finally took the plunge. And to make things even more interesting, I bought a cart to keep only the materials I need for one painting at a time, forcing myself to focus solely on that single piece.

Why the sudden shift? Because sometimes, we need to step away from what’s comfortable in order to grow.

Breaking the Habit: A New Way of Working

This whole experiment is completely opposite to how I’m used to working. Normally, I thrive in the chaos of having multiple projects going at once, moving back and forth between them. I love the freedom to switch gears whenever I feel like it. Now, with an easel and a limited palette, I’m forcing myself to slow down, to focus intensely on one piece, and to trust that something good will come out of it.

I won’t lie—it feels strange, and I know I’ll probably need to go back to a big wall once in a while to breathe. But stepping into this new way of working is exciting in a different way. I’m curious to see what I’ll learn about my process and how it might change my perspective on my art.

Embracing Change and Growth

This season of life for me is all about embracing change and trying new things, even when they feel uncomfortable. It’s about not fearing the unknown, but welcoming it as a chance to grow. Will this experiment with an easel completely transform my work? Maybe, maybe not. But the important thing is, I’m willing to give it a shot.

If you’re an artist feeling stuck or afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone, know that you’re not alone. Change can be intimidating, but it can also lead to breakthroughs. It’s never too late to try something new in your art practice.

Ready to Push Your Creative Boundaries?

If you’re looking for support on your journey as an artist, whether it’s navigating new challenges or building your career, I invite you to join the Art NXT Level Coaching program. Get the guidance you need to grow, experiment, and thrive in your artistic path. Learn more at www.theartistnextlevel.com. Let’s take the next step together!

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Stepping Into the Unknown: My 30-Year Journey Without an Easel (Until Now)

Breaking the Habit: A New Way of Working

Embracing Change and Growth

Ready to Push Your Creative Boundaries?

Stay connected with news and updates. Get on the Art NXT Level Weekly!

Stay connected with news and updates!

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