A few weeks ago I wrote a blog about my trying to learn to paint, something I’ve wanted to do for a long time.

Now, right now I need to re-write that sentence. I’m not TRYING to learn to paint. Because trying means I may just end up giving up, instead of learning. 

And that’s not my plan.

I’m learning. Not trying to learn.

I have a lot of books about painting, and I’ve been following them and experimenting with techniques and ideas. Probably not as much experimenting or practice as I should, because I’m just anxious to get started.

I’ve found lots of reference photos on line that I’ve downloaded for future use, and really working on my sketching. I’d say I’m not great at it, but that’s a negative thought. I’m learning more and actually getting better at it. I still erase a lot, which I know I shouldn’t, but when I’m ready to put my brush to paper, I want something to paint that I’ll enjoy.

My first attempt was, of course, a flamingo. I have several favorite pictures I want to try, but the one I chose was one with a crown of flowers on her head, using a picture on a set of outdoor coasters.

I was determined to end up with something art worthy, and actually it’s not that bad for a first attempt. The proportions aren’t entirely right, and I’m not totally pleased with her neck, but she’s not bad.

Here’s the progression of my first work. Amateurish, yes, but I’m learning! And I’m practicing. Better yet, I’m keeping at it, and though I don’t have time to do a little every day, I’m not giving up.

I even started a new piece of art yesterday, and I’m working on the final touches. It’s a step up from this one, and I’ll show that off when it’s done.

The main thing is, I’m following through and not giving up.

Is there something new you want to learn? But not sure how good you’ll be at it? There’s only one way to find out.

Get in there and start trying. Then keep up with it and work on your skills. In whatever we do, the more we practice, the more we work on those skills, the better we’ll become.

Giving up after a few tries because our skills aren’t immediately perfect isn’t the way to improve them. Practice, practice, and a bit more practice and then see what happens!

Thats what I’m doing.