I’ve been working on this piece, which has a lot of underpainting, and I got a little stuck. When going in with another layer, it’s easy to fall back into applying the same color in the same area as if you’re coloring. The trick is to come in with new paint without being influenced by the underpainting.

Let me show you…

Amazing depth and richness show up in the work when you allow yourself to apply new thinking over the underpainting. This combination of differences, the new with the old, brings an energy to the work that’s far more interesting. I like this piece so much better now!

Does combining old and new ways of thinking make sense to you? Let me know in the comments.

On this Wednesday’s episode of the Art2Life Podcast, I’ll reflect on ideas from my recent backpacking trip with my daughters. There is nothing like being in nature to let the mind wander and generate ideas. I thought a lot about art—how it fuels us and how to stay in motion. Join me as I share tips and strategies to enhance your creative practice. Click here to subscribe to the Art2Life Podcast and catch up on past episodes, too!

Hope you’re making some art today!

Nick

PS: Click here to download our Free Color Tips PDF.  It’s loaded with useful ideas!