• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Mix Measure Make

A colourful, vintage, and handmade home.

  • Home
  • Mix
    • Decorating with Vintage
    • Decorating with Colour
    • Useful Vintage Decor
    • All Things Holidays
  • Measure
    • DIY House Projects
    • Before and After
  • Make
    • Tutorials
    • Art Challenge
    • Sewing
    • Felt Embroidery
    • Quilting
    • Painting
    • Knitting & Crochet
    • Other Crafts
  • About
    • About Me
    • Contact Us
    • Privacy Policy
    • Cookies Policy
  • Shop
    • Shop
    • Cart
    • Checkout
    • My account
    • Terms and Conditions
  • Show Search
Hide Search
Home ยป Best and Worst February Paintings – And Evidence of Growth!

Best and Worst February Paintings – And Evidence of Growth!

Danielle · March 1, 2022 ·

24 shares
  • Share20

In February, I learned that my attitude can have a huge impact on my creative process, and I’ll show you a great example of my growth as a painter.

The four paintings for February laid out together on a table - a dog at a beach, a colourful study of Monet's Tulip Fields in Holland, a pear, and a bright treed landscape

A Short, and Sometimes Stressful Month

February is a short month as it is, but it went by in even more of a blur than usual. I’ve been working very hard to finish my first quilt pattern and a couple different versions of quilts from it. As well, I ended up signing up for an immersion course on surface pattern design that started on February 28th. And therefore I have been trying to clear my schedule in advance so I can focus on that.

On top of everything I need to do, there have been many distressing situations in the news lately that have left me feeling a range of emotions. I’ve been quite tired as well, both from physical and emotional exhaustion, but also from odd reasons like being repeatedly woken up by frost quakes. (Have you ever experienced those?)

Before starting my 52 in ’22 Art Challenge to make more time for creating art, I would have cut painting from my schedule when I got overwhelmed with everything I needed to do, or felt worn out. But I’m enjoying the regular time that I set aside for painting, and the feeling of accomplishment from working on the challenge every week. And I didn’t want to break my momentum.

Attitude Is Everything

So each week in February, even though I felt tired and distracted by my to-do list, I chose to paint. On two occasions, painting was a successful distraction and I really enjoyed the process and the artwork I created. Those paintings make me want to keep painting.

However on the two other occasions, I approached painting more as an obligation. I got grumpy and frustrated halfway through and nearly gave up on both those paintings. But I stuck with it, and they did improve by the end. Even so, I am unhappy with those two paintings, partially because they didn’t turn out as I had hoped, and partially because I didn’t enjoy the process while painting them.

Regardless of the outcome, I still painted, and I still tried new things, so I’m proud of myself. And I’m also developing an understanding of how my attitude, mood, and energy level will affect the creative process and ultimately, the art I create.

Four Paintings in February

Let’s look at the my paintings for the art challenge in February. Since I completed five paintings in January, I’ll keep numbering my paintings consecutively, as 6 through 9 for the year.

6. Reflection on Water – From a Trip Photo from PEI

For my first painting in February, I chose a personal photograph that I took from a trip to PEI in 2018. We were a little ways down the beach from our rented cottage at low tide. My husband was out at the end of the rocks and our dog, Oliver, sat in the shallow water waiting for him. I chose the photo for the prompt, “Reflection on Water”.

A photograph of a small terrier sitting in shallow water at the beach near rocks, watching a small figure in the distance

As I was setting up, I remarked to my husband, “I don’t think I’m going to be able to do a very good job of this”, and he reminded me that wasn’t a very good attitude. So I tried to change my state of mind, but I was still nervous about painting several surfaces that I hadn’t attempted before.

However, once I got the rocks with their attached bits of shells done, I was so happy at how I had been able to represent them in paint. I also loved the sky, my tiny husband, and Oliver.

An oil painting in blue-grey with a small terrier sitting in shallow water at the beach near rocks, watching a small figure in the distance

The only thing I did really struggle with was making the reflection on water, especially because it’s so shallow over the red sand. The colour really threw me. But I did work in a reflection of Oliver that I like.

So while I feel that I need way more practice with reflections, I absolutely love this painting. I could not be happier with how it turned out, and it takes me back to that day at the beach. This painting really built my confidence as a painter.

7. Study a Work By a Famous Artist – Tulip Fields in Holland by Monet

For my second painting, I chose the prompt, “Study a work by a famous artist”. Since Monet is known for impressionism, I searched some of Monet’s works and selected a colourful painting called Tulip Fields in Holland. You can see the original HERE.

Perhaps it’s my fault for choosing such a small size to work on (this is 4 x 5″), but I really struggled with the flowers and the buildings. I came very close to stopping working on it at one point, but I soldiered on, and it did come together more.

A small oil painting study of Monet's Tulip Fields in Holland with flower fields and a windmill

This is definitely the painting with the most colour that I’ve ever done, and maybe that’s what’s bothering me. But as usual, after more time has passed, I can better appreciate it. While it’s not among my favourite paintings, I am glad that I tried something new.

8. Fruit – Pear, Class by Miss Mustard Seed

I was feeling particularly overwhelmed with my to-do list this week, and I wanted to follow along with a class. I felt the less decisions to make for myself, the better. So I chose another free Miss Mustard Seed painting class, this time painting a pear, for the prompt of “Fruit”.

I love Marian Parson’s (Miss Mustard Seed) classes, and she’s very approachable and encouraging. But I was in a bit of a bad mood and definitely overtired. The class was longer, and I felt that I couldn’t keep up. I had to keep pausing and rewatching bits.

A small painting of a Bartlett pear with leaves in front on a blue background

I also contemplated giving up part way through as it was looking terrible, but I kept at it, and it did improve. Perhaps I should write a sticky note with “Don’t Give Up! It will Get Better!” as a visual reminder.

Overall, I struggled with the shape of the pear and I corrected it SO many times. And the shadows and highlights of the pear, as well as the shadows of the leaves were also very challenging.

Once again, now that time has passed, and I’m not comparing it to Marian’s version, I think it’s a decent attempt for only my second still life ever. It’s also my first attempt at painting fruit. I’d be curious to attempt this pear again near the end of the year and see if I can improve upon it.

9. Revisit One of Your First Works – New Attempt at My First Painting Ever

I made my first ever oil painting in July 2020. It was a treed landscape that I painted from following along with a free Miss Mustard Seed painting class she had recorded a couple months earlier during lockdown. For my first oil painting, I was pretty pleased with it. But I recognize that it ended up quite dark, quite muddy, and over-blended.

First ever oil painting of a treed landscape with dark dull colours and too much blending.
First Oil Painting Ever – July 2020

Since July 2020, I’ve done a good handful of paintings. And as I wrote in January paintings post, I am still working on not getting bogged down in details. I’d prefer to adopt a slightly more impressionistic style, and learn to stop overworking every painting. But it’s usually a struggle.

For the last prompt of February, I decided to choose “Revisit one of your first works”. And I selected my very first painting. Rather than take the class over again, I viewed some of the student works that Marian had included on her blog post with the class. Some of them were looser and more what I was hoping to achieve with my second attempt.

As well, I also taped up my original attempt to look at. I think it was quite helpful to have it there as an example so I could make conscious choices to get different results. And the difference is dramatic.

A small oil painting on an index card divider of a tree landscape in an impressionist style and bright colours
Second attempt – February 2022

For this one, I chose a smaller canvas. I think the original is 6 x 8″ or so, and this is a 3 x 5″ index card divider that I prepared with gesso. I purposely brightened the colour palette, and left it more blobby and less blended.

And I could not be happier with the finished result. As well, the painting took me maybe half the time I usually spend on paintings. Go figure – I guess overworking takes quite a bit of time!

But to me, the biggest difference is obvious when you place the two versions side by side.

Two oil paintings of the same treed landscape - a first attempt, larger and more blended, and the second smaller, brighter, and more impressionistic

It makes me so happy to see such an improvement in about a year and a half of painting. So even though I wasn’t happy with all of my paintings or painting sessions in February, I am feeling inspired all over again.

And I know that I’m on the right track! Now I just need to approach painting from the right mindset to improve my creative process and ultimately, the artwork I create.

See my March paintings now!

The 52 in ’22 Art Challenge

If you’re just finding this, you may want to know more about the 52 in ’22 Art Challenge. It’s a free and flexible art challenge with a printable prompt sheet that you can join anytime. You can read all about it and find answers to FAQs HERE.

The 52 in '22 Art Challenge printable prompt sheet on a clipboard with 9 prompts checked off by the end of February

You can also get your free copy of the printable prompt sheet below:

February Paintings Pinterest Graphic showing all four paintings, beach scene, Monet Study, pear, and treed landscape

I want to hear from you. Which of the February paintings do you like best? Have you ever attempted a creative endeavour over again after some time and noticed growth or improvement? Do you find that your attitude affects not only how much you enjoy the creative process, but also the outcome? Let me know in the comments below.

All the best,

Danielle

Back to the Top ^

<< Older Post
Newer Post >>

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Leslie says

    March 3, 2022 at 2:30 pm

    I love your work. The 52 in 22 challenge is a great idea.

    • Danielle says

      March 3, 2022 at 4:08 pm

      Thank you so much Leslie! I’m definitely enjoying the challenge I created for myself, and I hope some others are too ๐Ÿ™‚

  2. Sadie says

    March 3, 2022 at 2:05 pm

    Beautiful work! I really love the windmill painting ๐Ÿ™‚ It’s always so nice to feel like you’re growing!

    • Danielle says

      March 3, 2022 at 2:25 pm

      Thank you so much Sadie! The windmill painting is proving popular. And yes – sometimes seeing the evidence of improvement is very motivating!

  3. Kathy Pollard says

    March 3, 2022 at 1:50 pm

    Beautiful paintings and obvious growth! (And our dog is named Oliver also!)

    • Danielle says

      March 3, 2022 at 2:25 pm

      Thanks so much Kathy! Oliver’s a great name for a dog – especially one with personality. What kind of dog is your Oliver?

  4. Juliea huffaker says

    March 3, 2022 at 10:30 am

    I think they are all beautiful paintings! My favorite is the one with the wind mill!

    • Danielle says

      March 3, 2022 at 10:34 am

      Thank you Juliea! Perhaps I’m being too hard on the windmill painting after all ๐Ÿ™‚

  5. Lindsey Winters says

    March 3, 2022 at 10:28 am

    These are all so beautiful and inspiring! I especially love the one of the dog looking out at the water. It looks so real and like the photo.

    A very close second is the holland painting. It makes me think of our visits to holland, Michigan and even though it may have been a challenge, you did wonderful on it.

    I dabble with watercolors but would love to be able to make more precise paintings. Really enjoyed these, thank you!

    • Danielle says

      March 3, 2022 at 10:33 am

      Thank you so much Lindsey! I really appreciate all the compliments ๐Ÿ™‚ Watercolours seem very intimidating to me, but I’m envious of people who know how to use them.

Primary Sidebar

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Danielle of Mix Measure Make

I’m so happy you’re here! I’m a wife, educator, sewist, and artist. I adore all things vintage and colourful, and am always dreaming up my next DIY or craft project. You can get to know me better, and find out what Mix Measure Make is all about here.

Recent Posts

  • May Paintings – Working Through A Creative Slump
  • Avoid Surprises: Guide to Buying Fabric Online – With Confidence!
  • Learning Surface Pattern Design and a Free Art Print!
  • Back to Basics! Learning Helpful Skills with April Art
  • Hanging a Mini Quilt With a Dowel: Best Tutorial & Template

Search Mix Measure Make

Search by Category

Search by Date

Copyright © 2023 Mix Measure Make

  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookies Policy
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
As an Etsy Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Cookies Notice
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking โ€œAcceptโ€, you consent to the use of all the cookies.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Read our Cookies Policy
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT
24 shares