One of the many walls that I am hitting as I start this painting odyssey is being far too ambitious.  For years I have been able to create really moody images using photography and photoshop.  So naturally I’m attracted to such images when I come to painting.  The only problem is that they are at the very edge of my performance envelope.  The consequence is that I am having to work really hard to even get close to making an acceptable painting.  Now I know that I will benefit in the long term and yes I am learning a huge amount but boy is it a hard and painful road where my technique is always letting me down.

From time to time I have had to retreat back into my comfort zone and make little sketches to keep my morale up and remind myself that every day I am making progress.  Everyday new neural pathways are being laid down.  Every hour I spend trying to make this painting is another hour towards my 10,000 hours.

You’ve got be strong to be better.