I came to a realization this week. I now understand how to handle the transition between play and intention in my work. I can't tell you how huge this is for me. And it's not just about painting ... Let me explain ... I start each painting by playing with paint - just making shapes and marks and enjoying the process. But at some point, I realize I have something promising. That's when I have to get thoughtful. I have to determine what the painting needs and then make that happen.The problem is that as soon as I have a plan, I usually tighten up. And before long, the painting loses all its life and energy.But this week, I found different approach.When the painting starts to come to life, it is true that I need to think carefully and decide what is needed. But, in order to keep the painting fresh, I need to apply that idea boldly. For me, this means bold, loose brush strokes. The thinking needs to be careful but the painting does not.This has made all the difference in the painting shown above. I have been able to clarify the story without deadening the whole thing.And I think this applies to more than art.How many times do we decide to do something, but then something stops us from going all in. Instead, we procrastinate, or tinker around the edges. Maybe we do part of what we originally envisioned, but we don't take it as far as we could.I'm vowing not to do that anymore. I am working on a new blog, aimed at inspiring creativity and helping artists take their work to the next level. I have done some thoughtful planning but now I plan to throw myself into it with abandon. I will take risks and make bold moves.If it works in art, it will work in life!PS: The first bold move is that all the content will be completely free. If you want to be notified when the site goes live, sign up here for email updates:

You can also join the Facebook group here. I'm excited to see where this goes :)