I wanted to paint, wanted to get “into” a project, but I had no ideas or inspiration. I couldn’t go outside and take pictures of the garden. It’s covered in snow. Not a pretty snow, a solid, icy, block of snow. As I was trying to come up with an idea, I grab two magazines and remembered the post I wrote about coming up with ideas. Looking through magazines was on my list.
Both magazines had pictures of cherry blossoms in it. This was ironic, because just that morning I booked a Spring trip to Washington, DC, which is famous for it’s cherry blossoms. I was really inspired by a picture in Martha Stewart Living with the cherry blossoms on a dark slate background. I love the look of a dark background. One of my goals for 2015 is to paint on dark paper.
My steps:
It felt good to get into my project. My goal was to stay loose and not paint each flower – which is why I started the flowers and buds by splashing the pink on my paper. I wanted the background to be dark. To achieve this, I had to apply a couple of layers to the background. I think buying gouache paint is in my future!
For me this painting is not so much about the final product, but about getting started, and getting ideas flowing again.
I can’t wait for Spring and for the Cherry Blossoms!
mycreativeresolution.com 
Good choice! I also struggle with coming up with ideas! I think it feels similar to writer’s block sometimes. I keep a pinterest board, folder on my computer, and a stack of magazine clippings to go to when it’s time to start a new project.
Thank you. Yes it must be similar to writer’s block. I know once I start I’ll be fine, but sometimes it’s so hard to start! Good idea with the pinterest and clippings.
My two issues are: not having enough inspiration and not making time to be creative. But I love the idea of looking through magazines! And I live right outside of Washington DC so I can attest that your cherry blossoms are very beautiful!
I know, making the time is sometimes the hardest part. And sometimes you have the time but no ideas! Thank you! I’ll be in your neighborhood soon. Not too bad of a drive from NY. 🙂
So interesting how you painted this one!
Thanks!
I bought a set of gouache paints and have yet to crack them open – I am saving them! : ) Nice work…
I almost bought some last week but wasn’t sure what to buy. Any recommendations?
I went with a set of 12 by Reeves, ACMoore – just starting out and bought so many supplies, later on I can splurge more on more colors and better quality. I have yet to attest to the Reeve goauche tube quality…
When I first started I was buying supplies like crazy. Now I try really hard to buy a little at a time and use it. Otherwise I forget why I bought stuff and it just sits. I’d like to treat myself in April (my birthday month) to a nice set of gouache paints.