Just Paint for the Sake of Painting

The pure joy of painting - Isn't that the reason why we (painters) decide to paint in the first place? Without a doubt my artistic journey started this way. Then we may continue as our brain tells us that this is an activity worth spending our time with for the reward we get in return. To me the ultimate reward comes in the form of a joy of creating and expressing my voice visually. I believe that this is true with most painters, professionals and amateurs alike. It is this joy that motivates us to do more. It is simply hard for me to imagine anyone can do such a tedious job of painting repeatedly if he doesn't enjoy it.

As time goes by and the initial excitement fades, we begin to understand that it is not necessarily just pure fun all the time. This should be expected, however, as we strive to get better at our craft or try to make a living with art. An artistic journey is just like a long-term relationship where we must make serious commitments and take responsibilities. There are techniques to learn, skills to hone, shows to get juried in, paintings to sell, commissions to fulfill, deadlines to meet for submissions for important events, etc., etc. while trying to live a normal life outside the world of art as well. All these things and more, although important, can put a lot of pressure on our creative mind and may even take over the joy of painting for the sake of painting.

This summer I was very fortunate to have about a week in Ireland to paint just for fun. The Emerald Isle was perfect to quench my thirst to do that after months of non-stop teaching and competitions. It was a great feeling to be able to paint away without worrying about the result. The landscape in that country was so peaceful and beautiful. I felt my mind nourished and recharged.

Kinvara, Ireland (35x50cm) watercolor en plein air

Kinsale, Ireland (35x50cm) watercolor en plein air

Cork, Ireland (35x50cm) watercolor en plein air

Galway, Ireland (35x50cm) watercolor en plein air

Guinness Factory, Dublin, Ireland (35x50cm) watercolor en plein air

Dalkey, Ireland (35x50cm) watercolor en plein air

Blarney, Ireland (35x50cm) watercolor en plein air

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Comments

7 Responses to Just Paint for the Sake of Painting

So nice to read your kind and wise words about the life of an artist. They reflect well the way you do, you commit yourself to the passion in it.
thank you for such a strong motivation.
best warm regards
Alda

Posted by ALDA COSTA · via ktanabefineart.com · 131 months ago

Obrigada, Alda. Thank you for reading this blog post and making a nice comment. I think, if we don't take time to explore and develop creativity, we are not going to be happy artists. Hope all is well with you.

Posted by Keiko Tanabe · via ktanabefineart.com · 131 months ago

Hi, Keiko, I have so enjoyed following you as you excel in your art career. I am now 84 and haven't done much painting because I have been recovering from injuries from three bad falls. I have painted a few each year and still participate when I am able int he state organizations and I keep trying to make one of the national ones. Hopefully, I will some day. I finally had a painting accepted in Florida Watercolor's exhibit and one in Southern Watercolor. I earned my signature with Georgia Watercolor several years ago and signature with Tallahassee Watercolor Society. There are not many opportunities in this area. I really miss Florida. When you are close enough to my area, I would like you to come visit with me. I have plenty of room. I had talked to a friend in Florida about taking your up-coming workshop, but it is just too far for both of us, and I don't drive out of town any more. I have to get one of my children to go with me or hire someone. At any rate, I am so happy for all the wonderful life you are enjoying. I am honored to have you as a friend. I still plan to get one of your paintings to leave to my family. I look forward to continue to read about you. God bless you. Claire

Posted by Claire Hall · via ktanabefineart.com · 130 months ago

Hi Claire, very nice to hear from you. Thank you for your continued interest in my work and, more importantly, your friendship. Congratulations on all your achievements!! That is so great and I wish you more success and many more years of health and happiness. I will be sure to visit you if I ever come close to your area. I hope our paths will cross again in the near future. Warmest regards, Keiko

Posted by Keiko Tanabe · via ktanabefineart.com · 130 months ago

Hi Keiko,

Like many others I love your work and was disappointed to see you were in Ireland and I missed you !! I know you were here on a holiday but I would have loved just to say 'hello'.I have walked around the pier in Kinvara many many times and have painted the castle there.Maybe some day you might come back and do a workshop?

Kindest regards and as we say here....may you be in heaven half an hour before the devil knows you're dead !! Obviously not for a good while yet ...lol

Larry

Posted by Larry · via ktanabefineart.com · 129 months ago

I would appreciate being added to your blog list. Your work is wonderful! Many thanks.

Karen Bruett

Posted by Karen Bruett · via ktanabefineart.com · 117 months ago

This blog post on KTanabe Fine Art encourages artists to just paint for the sake of painting, focusing on creativity and personal expression without pressure. It highlights the joy of exploration, freedom in artistic practice, and building confidence through regular art making. A motivating read for anyone seeking creative inspiration, artistic growth, and playful painting.

Posted by Marz Painting Service · via ktanabefineart.com · 5 months ago

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