What story does your painting tell?

When I'm at an art show, it's often easy to break the ice with those in my booth by telling them the story behind a painting. Many art admirers want a painting to speak to them.  However, I have noticed that some people do not offer stories for different reasons. In some cases, the inspiration for the painting might be very personal. In other cases, some artists are private persons.

Consider that when someone is interested in buying your painting, they will likely live longer with the painting than you have had it.  That's why some people want to know all about the painting and the artist, they seek that connection that they will have in their mind every time they see the painting in their home.

The question of a painting telling a story also helps the artist focus on certain aspects of the painting. This could be a mood, an item, capturing a moment and expression. It could be any number of things, even a colour or a process.

As you paint, keep asking the question about the story your painting tells. This will help you identify what is the dominant element of your painting, and why you chose to emphasize it. What does the painting say about you as an artist, particularly to someone who’s never seen your work before? Some artists keep notes on the stories their paintings tell and store them with their paintings.

I have no doubt that paintings that have a story will create more interest than just another lonely painting fighting for attention among the numerous paintings that exist. 

Here is a related Ted Talk on this by Tracy Chevalier: Finding the story inside the painting.

Today's artist find is Ann Balch.

Have a great week

Danielle