This is Dussman’s Auto, a small watercolor of the view from my local convenience store in Lancaster, PA. I take a lot of photos when I run out to pick up milk or other odds and ends – morning and evening are the best photo times.
Good Advice For Watercolor Artists
Years ago, Dean Mitchell advised wannabe artists to enter the juried art exhibits and keep trying to improve your painting skills until you can get in. That’s what I did.
Lots of times in the beginning, I didn’t get in. I studied the accepted art, took classes and worked hard. Now my entries are accepted in the juried art exhibits more often than not, and I’m winning awards! Now what?
Currently, I’m looking at exhibiting in art museums and contemporary art centers. I feel it’s the next step. Watercolor artists need to keep in mind that there are only steps in an art career, not destinations. Even the most respected artists in our great nation are only known to a handful of people. There are no “rock stars.” You keep working or you’re history. So enjoy your painting, whatever level you’re at. That’s the best advice.
What I Did On My Summer Vacation
Last week, I went to Virginia to the Contemporary Art Center in Virginia Beach and the Chrysler Museum of Art. There are so many places to see and think about, it’s overwhelming.
What do you do in that case? Look for a mentor: someone who has been there and done that. On an artist friend’s advice, I contacted the Ratner Museum in Bethesda, and I’m going today to talk to the director. I’ll let you know what happens!
I am 59 and am able to spend time doing what I enjoy. I would like to know if you taught yourself or had at least some classes to start your career? I am handicap and use a walker so I have to use at a cane to go out plein air painting. Thankyou for your time. Kathy
Hi Kathy,
I took some classes from local artists. You learn as much from the other students as from the teacher, usually. What helps me the most is watching how artists paint, so I’d recommend videos if you can’t get to a class. The Pennsylvania Watercolor Society has a big library of videos and tapes that members can borrow free. I don’t know where you’re at, but hopefully, there will be an art or watercolor group in your area. If all else fails, you can never go wrong studying the ‘masters’ and your local library will have books on those. Go for it!