Introduction
They say that every child is an artist. It’s remaining an artist when we grow up that’s the problem. Real life (bills, mortgages and grocery shopping) often gets in the way of our creative side. We just don’t have the time to pick up a brush and isolate our thoughts to that brush and the paper.
But what if we made the time? You could be a budding Picasso and you don’t even know it! Let’s look at how you can unleash your inner artist from your own home, without the need for pricey painting classes.
Painting for Beginners
To really get started with painting as a hobby, you have to view things differently. Becoming an artist is a torturous process! You have to give yourself time alone to focus on your art, and believe that it is worth dedicating a large portion of your week to.
If you have that passion to get started with painting, you may have started to do some research. I’ve looked into trying the odd painting class, and found that the cost is too high to justify. If you feel like you need that extra guidance, then a painting class could be for you. If you’re ready to get stuck in and go it alone, here are some tools you’ll need to start off with.
The tools below are for wannabe oil painters. Of course, there are other ways you can get arty, and I’ll mention those later on.
Oil painting for beginners. You will need:
- Tubes of oil paint. Go crazy with the colours if you choose, though limiting your colours can force you to be more creative as you come up with new shades through mixing. Start off with student paint as it’s cheaper and when you’re dedicated to painting, build your way up to artist quality oil paint.
- Painting brushes. Save money with synthetic brushes, or splash out on natural ones. Natural brushes tend to last longer as long as you clean and look after them properly. Beginners can start off with three sizes: small, medium and large. That should cover your requirements and you can add to your collection with time.
- Canvas and board. Now you need something to paint on! Canvas paper is cheap and is ideal for oil painting.
- You’ll need a palette to mix your colours. Paper palettes are convenient, but you can be flexible with materials. Wood, glass and plastic are all good options.
- An easel. This is optional. If you prefer, you can paint on a flat surface. Many artists find this a little obstructive and prefer to set their work up vertically on an easel.
- Paint thinner. You can use water or turpentine to thin your oil paints.
- Cleaning materials. It’s important to keep your brushes and other equipment clean, so that you can use them again and again. Purchase pots, rags and mild soap. Clean the brushes by squeezing paint from the bristles and then wash them thoroughly.
What other types of painting can you try?
Oil paints are recommended for beginners because they are the thickest type of paint. They take days to dry, giving you time to add and edit your work as you please.
If oil painting isn’t for you, maybe some of these other options will better suit your style. Try a few and really develop your artistry stamp while you hone your skills.
- Watercolour paints are thin and transparent. It can be difficult for beginners because the paint changes its shape and form as it dries. However, with practice, you can create some beautiful scenery and other images.
- Acrylics are another good option for beginners. They are thick, bold colours and you can mix colours easily. Acrylics turn to plastic when they dry, so you can paint over the top of any mistakes.
Why Should we Paint?
Foster your creativity
We don’t often get to sit down and just create art. Taking up painting gives you the opportunity to let your mind and your hand loose and you can create anything you choose. Work on the right-side of your brain and remind yourself that you can build stunning visuals.
Mental benefits
Painting offers benefits for your mind. It helps to strengthen your memory through conceptual visualisation and implementation. Painting a building or a face from memory? Think of the details you would have to be able to recall as you go along!
An artist also works on their problem-solving skills as they have to be able to think conceptually. They have to be able to compromise when something doesn’t work out how they visualised. Their vision will evolve and they work with whatever they have.
Stress relief
Any form of art is a great way to deal with stress and anxiety. Painting can be a relaxing hobby that can take away from high stress levels. Stimulating the creative mind is a sure-fire way to take some mental strain off.
Making Money from Painting
Now that you’ve transformed into that artist that was always waiting to come out, you’re ready to cash in on your skill and hobby. Can you imagine having your work shown in an art gallery?! It can be difficult for a painter to monopolise on their passion, but it is possible. Here’s how.
Sell your art yourself
Become your own boss and be the marketer for your own work. Mount your work onto fancy canvases or sell them straight off the paper. You can set up online stores or use eBay to showcase your paintings to prospective buyers.
If you prefer face-to-face interactions, you can sell your art on the street! Set up a stall or get involved with your local market and show the world what you have to offer.
Network with a gallery
There are gallery owners out there that are hungry for fresh new art. Depending on whether your work is showcased in a non-profit or a commercial gallery, you’re looking at receiving commissions of 30-50% for every sale.
Become a teacher
Share your passion for painting with the world by becoming a teacher. You might be able to land a long-term gig as a teacher in an arts college but if not, you could get the odd guest spot. If colleges aren’t for you, set up a fun art workshop. You’d probably have to provide the materials, but students can pay a small fee and you’ll be helping them develop their own painting career.
What will your style look like? Abstract, realistic or contemporary? The great thing about painting is that you can explore your options and discover which style speaks to you. How will you get your message across? How does your work define you?
Anyone can get started and there’s no “right or wrong” way to paint. So grab your brushes, get messy and amaze yourself with your hidden artistic talents.
