IN THE ZONE

In the zone.

In life there is hardly any success without momentum. Whether in the business world, sport, home life and yes,  even in art - momentum plays a huge part in progress.

The winning ways of momentum can be seen first-hand in sport. Two teams may be evenly matched in skills but in the end, momentum and the mental confidence that accompanies it will irresistibly win the day.

Momentum is the force of something that moves. A goods train may take a while to get going but once it builds up a head of steam it’s hard to stop and it may take several kilometres to do so because of the powerful combination of speed and weight.

Artistic momentum is necessary for progress (if we want it) and it comes in different forms that all combine to make up a personal artist train.

To be an artist we must not only paint but we must think about painting too, particularly when away from the easel. Being an artist is not about something we do once a week, it is a way of thinking and a way of life.  Making art a passion and not just a pastime will add to the pleasure we already have when we paint.  From the temptations of an art supply shop to the wonders of an exhibition and everything in between, it will crank up the engines of our own painting momentum.

The engines of momentum may be primed to go but movement is required to get it going. That means actually painting. Workshops, classes, and online tutorials are good fuel, but by themselves will leave us standing still at the station if the journey is not continued at home.

Momentum is important at all stages of being an artist and it really is all about painting more often.  Whether just beginning or very experienced a lack of impetus can bring us to a grinding halt and it will take effort to get it going again.

 Most of us know the benefits of 'getting on a roll' or 'being in the zone' when we have things to do. And it’s no different with painting. The more we do - the more we  can do!  The old saying, that if you want something done, ask a busy person to do it, rings true and it's called momentum!

Crank up those engines.

Mike Barr

This painting of Semaphore jetty could easily be cropped into several other paintings, although I was happy with the full painting! Acrylic on canvas about 10 years ago.