Welcome to this new episode of how to loosen up your painting. It's a popular choice because I asked my artist community on YouTube whom they wanted to hear about next, and Alfred Sisley was chosen. I think this is mostly because a lot of artists don't really know too much about this particular impressionist. So we're going to look at Alfred Sisley and compare him to Claude Monet.  Watch the podcast here: We're going to look at Alfred Sisley, his early life, and his progress with his career. It's a tale of success and tragedy, and overall, perhaps not the happiest story, but we can learn ..read more

Impressionism, a revolutionary art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, forever changed the way we perceive and depict the world. This blog post introduces you to the lives and masterpieces of four iconic Impressionist painters: Claude Monet, Édouard Manet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas. Each artist brought a unique vision and style to the movement, creating works that continue to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide. As you explore the fascinating stories behind their paintings, take the quiz to test your knowledge and discover a special free gift waiting for you at ..read more

​Ever found yourself drowning in the chaos of managing your artwork? I've been there too, with canvases stacked in cupboards and photos scattered all over my studio. But fear not! I've discovered a game-changer that's revolutionizing the way artists like us organize and manage our creative endeavors. Enter Artwork Archive—the all-in-one solution you've been dreaming of! ​Full Disclosure First let me say that I am a subscriber to Artwork Archive's pro plan. I did test out their product first. Nevertheless I used another ecommerce cart system to sell my paintings. However, I soon realised that ..read more

How do you translate the vast, complex beauty of the natural world onto a flat canvas? It can be tempting to dive straight into the details, but establishing a solid foundation is key to creating cohesive, compelling paintings. That's where a simplified landscape painting process comes in. By breaking down the steps into a structured workflow - starting with darks and shadows, then building up to mid-tones and highlights - you can lay the groundwork for depth, atmosphere, and a uniquely personal interpretation of the scene. In this post, we'll explore the benefits of this streamlined approach ..read more

Claude Monet is regarded as the father of Impressionism. No other artist of the period had the longevity of career and perseverance with the Impressionist movement. Today Monet's paintings are national treasures commanding astonishing prices on auction. Monet achieved fame and fortune in his lifetime, but we must also look at this early career struggles. It is in these hard times that Monet's true character stood out among others. Let us examine this period a little closer. How to Paint Like an Impressionist: Free Guide Download this FREE Pianting guide in PDF format. Learn the major ste ..read more

One of the main topics that artists have a problem with is finding time to create. That's the number one issue. Time is one of those topics that, of course, is a big problem for all of us creatives: finding the time for art. That elusive couple of hours a day where we can spend time doing what we love as a hobby, making art, whittling out that little side hustle business to supplement income, or maybe transition into a full-time income. Free Painting Course Transcript: How can we find that extra hour or two? Time is also a topic that I think is one of those things that triggers me, to ..read more

Wet-in-wet oil painting can be both exhilarating and challenging. One common struggle artists face is effectively layering paint on top of an existing wet layer without losing control or creating muddy color. In this comprehensive guide, you will discover seven essential tips to help you navigate and master the art of wet-in-wet layering, ensuring your paintings achieve the desired richness and vibrancy. Plus download the bonus PDF guide. Let us get started! Start IMPRESSIONIST COURSE 1. Start with a Thin Blocking In Layer: Creating a solid foundation is crucial when working with wet-in-wet ..read more

Ever feel like we're living in a world where the corporations, banks and governments are taking care of themselves and leaving the rest of us with the tab? Of course that is exactly what is happening. Pam Brown, born way back in 1928, had it right when she said artists are seen as a self-indulgent superfluity. But you know what? It's time for a change! Let's talk about a Creative Awakening heading into 2024. Get the Creative Awakening Book ​More of the Same in the New Year? Look around, and you'll see the world's got its priorities a bit mixed up. The stock market maestros are treated like e ..read more

Painting snow scenes in an Impressionist style involves capturing the essence and mood of the scene rather than focusing on detailed representation. Here are ten tips to help you achieve that loose, expressive style in your snow-filled landscapes. Bonus: Watch the full demonstration and download the PDF summary to keep for later. 10 Tips for Painting Snow in a Loose Style: Before we jump in to the tips, it is important to remember that you will have to practice painting many snow scenes to get comfortable with these techniques. Best practice is to focus on a couple of the tips and try them in ..read more

Plein air painting is a challenge. The ever-changing light, constant distractions, and unpredictable noises can make it a unique experience. It does take a dash of bravery and commitment. Fortunately the rewards outweigh the distractions. As an artist, it is essential to adapt to the outdoor conditions and learn how to make quick decisions on the spot without second-guessing yourself. In this demonstration you will see how this is done in the filed. Your free course The Challenge of Changing Light in Outdoor Painting One of the significant challenges in outdoor painting is coping with consta ..read more