I made an odd decision last week. I thought I might try to make a painting every day for a year. Since I paint fast, I figured it just could work. So far, I’m not through the first week, but I’m at 4 paintings for 4 days and about to finish 5 and begin 6. Stay tuned…
I have several goals for this project.
1. Promote my paintings. I have not done much of this in the past, yet suddenly I’m very excited about my work and the possibilities that it offers.
2. Make the world a little bit better. I’m giving 20% of each purchase price to CiViL groups. Check the Gallery of paintings for information on this amazing effort and to see the paintings. I am a firm believer that God gave us artistic gifts to create community and to help others. Art should do more than affect one viewer at a time, and it can.
3. Bring original art to everyone. By pricing the work at 50% less than the lowest price a gallery might sell it, I’m hoping that many people can have the original art they’ve always wished for.
4. Teach art by video recording the process.
5. Have a great time. I’m loving this!
I found out very fast that others have done “a painting a day”. At first this was annoying if also a confirmation of the idea. I wanted to be first. However, one of my favorite companies is Apple, and they have a history of taking existing ideas and making them the best they can be. the music player became the iPod. The cell phone became the iPhone. I began to wonder just what I could do that would make this project stronger. That led to challenging myself and applying more of my convictions to the idea.
I am making paintings that are much larger than you would think for something like this. I’m not limiting myself to a small format, because I don’t have to. Other artists may paint more detailed and take more time. I paint like a crazy person, and usually can do even a large sized canvas in one sitting without a break.
If I had been first, I don’t think I would have pushed myself to all of the goals I’ve outlined. God works again! I hope I will be able to keep this project going strong. Your prayers and support will be greatly appreciated. Please look at the first few works and see if you’d like to purchase something for Christmas this year. One canvas is already sold.
20% to CiViL groups….. very cool!!! I hope you sell out fast!