Do you feel the need for a “good” result every time you paint? Or strive for a painting that looks good at every stage?

If so, you may find yourself continually disappointed, You may even get really stuck and even stop making your art.

I am currently teaching a 10-week online course and finding this is the most common block for my students. Some people simply can't bear to make work that isn't successful in their eyes, and this has created real struggle for them.

One of the things I teach is that play and experimentation are critical to a successful art process. I find it can take a few weeks to break through the barriers and get people to really let loose. This week, we dig into the reasons behind this desire to always make a "good" painting and discuss ways to reframe the issue or approach things differently.

Also, one listener asks about using photography as a basis for her work, and we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using photos to capture specific moments or places.