How To Turn Failure Into Success In Your Artwork

"We don't make mistakes, just happy little accidents." - Bob Ross

Hi everyone, it's Jed. Today, I want to share the journey of creating this particular painting I did for Acrylic University. I painted it during an outdoor session and it gave me some insight into converting your artistic mistakes and failures into successes.

On the day of recording, everything seemed perfect. I had prepared my materials the night before, eager to record an informative lesson for all our students. In the morning, I set out on the road with my equipment, feeling excited about the day ahead. However, as I began painting, I was blissfully unaware of a blatant error with my setup. My paint box, full of various colors, was precariously balanced on the edge of the easel. This was due to an incorrect angle I had set. As I continued to mix my colors and start painting, the movement of the easel caused the paint box to tumble, sending paint splattering everywhere.

At that moment, a wave of frustration washed over me. The voice inside my head urged me to give up. After all, who enjoys making mistakes? And sure, we've all heard Bob Ross's comforting words that there are no mistakes, only "happy little accidents." But in real-time, with paint strewn all around, those words felt hollow.

Taking a deep breath, I paused my painting and began the cleanup process. While I was cleaning up, I pondered: should I really quit, or push on? A big blob of yellow paint had landed on the edge of my water container and I realized that this paint, this “mistake,” could either be a setback or an opportunity.

Here's a piece of advice that I'd like to emphasize: When faced with an obstacle or an unexpected turn, persevere. Instead of viewing mistakes as limitations, see them as doors to new possibilities. Use the momentum to inspire and encourage yourself to innovate.

In my case, I decided to incorporate the excess yellow paint into my artwork. I picked up my palette knife and started laying on a thick yellow base for my sky.

Initially, I planned to craft a piece closely resembling the natural scene before me. But the unexpected yellow led me down a different, vibrant path. My canvas burst to life with a radiant sunlit landscape framed by a yellow sky. At one point in the process, I changed the sky to blue to match what my eyes were seeing. But I changed it back to yellow, finding that the original "accident" had become an integral part of my painting.

The artistic journey is rarely straightforward. It's full of layers, twists, and turns. What seems like a mistake at first might be the very thing that elevates your work. That's my key takeaway from this experience: Embrace imperfections, recalibrate, and look for the hidden opportunities. They might lead you to a masterpiece that exceeds your original vision.

I hope this lesson resonated with you. We’re here to support and uplift your creative journey. Remember, you're cherished and believed in. Until next time, happy painting!