By chuck larivey opa

Starting June 1st, SIP is launching our first-ever Summer Boot Camp, "An Introduction to Creating Best Wall Paintings." This program is an "introduction" because mastering this skill is not something you can achieve in a day, a month, or perhaps even a year. Typical short workshops lack the continuous format needed to keep you focused on a single target.... the Best Walls. SIP is a long-term commitment to mastering a subject, and in this case, creating a "Best Wall Painting."

Understanding what a Best Wall is the first step.

Seeing your work on the wall is essential to understand what a “Best Wall Painting” means. It’s not about peer credits, exhibits, or awards, though these are useful for marketing. Oh my! All are shown over a SOFA!

These photos remind me of a very common declaration artists often make: "I don't paint over-the-sofa paintings!" Then comes the "inspirational from the soul" part. My first thought is, I wonder where they do want them to hang... enshrined in a museum? Where does that come from? My guess is it's an old elitist notion that we don't breathe the same air. My guess is that's still around too!

Perhaps they really mean they don't want any commercial influence contaminating the creative process. Now that I understand... it's kinda like doing commissions. Yikes!

The odds are against a painting at the outset. We can make art all day long, but in the end, it has to resonate with an unknown outsider to find a home or a wall. The size, color, subject, price, and a long list of other factors on someone's wish list have to quintessentially match up. Compromise is probably not on the table.

Besides our own heart, our art must make someone else's heart thump! I personally call it the "jump factor." We see it happen when someone encounters something special, or it happens to us, and the prize proudly leaves tightly under an arm.

When I make art, I have a more practical view—actually a logical one. Paintings are typically meant to hang on a wall and more often than not, as part of the decoration. Given that reality, I want the best walls possible for my work. I don't think giving it consideration contaminates the creative process in any way, shape, or form. I also think how we get there is irrelevant and has no hard and fast rules—only the rules or constraints we personally place on ourselves.

Sometimes over a fireplace too.

Our boot camp is a unique opportunity to learn from experienced artists, receive invaluable feedback, and develop your art to its fullest potential. This summer, join SIP and take the first step towards creating your “Best Wall Painting.”

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP?

 Everyone knows what a boot camp is.... an exciting new adventure. Follow us and join the journey. This summer, it’s all about creating "The Best Wall Painting."