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Art Inspiration: Ideas that Evolve

"I begin with an idea, then it becomes something else."

- Pablo Picasso

A great quote from a master artist. An abstract painting from my Dot Meditation Series is shown in the background of this Picasso quote. Beginning with an idea is always how I start an art series. But as I work through the idea with painting, the initial thought always evolves in a new and unexpected direction.

"I begin with an idea, then it becomes something else." - Pablo Picasso. Quote from the Master Artist

Dot Meditation Painting Series: a Multi-Year Project

The abstract painting shown behind this Picasso quote is part of my Dot Meditation Series. The paintings started as a color experiment and a way for me to play with acrylic paint. Over time, I became obsessed with layering brushstrokes on panels.

I've made over 45 original paintings in this series. Each Dot Meditation Painting takes many months, sometimes years to complete. The way that I layer the paint in multiple layers of acrylic takes many painting sessions. 

The deliberate way of painting is methodical and meditative. Painting in this way forces me to focus and work much slower than I have in other artwork series. I've enjoyed the process of gradually building up color and layers in each painting. 

Learning to Enjoy the Creative Process

Like many artists, the way I start a painting or art project is most often not how it turns out. Over the years I've come to accept that this is part of the fun and (sometimes) frustration of being a painter. The Dot Meditation Paintings are painstakingly slow to make. I've had a difficult time parting with them through sales. So the majority are stored hidden in my Toronto art studio! 

The initial color painting idea to experiment with brushstrokes of acrylic on panel has turned into a multi-year project. I've made over 45 original paintings in this series. It's taken turns into abstract interior paintings and large scale paintings. The Dot Meditation Series has also inspired me to design art leggings, pillows, scarves and more gift products and art prints.

Turning Original Paintings into Art Prints

Because the original paintings take so much time to complete, I have a really hard time parting with them. I'm reluctant to price and sell these abstract art pieces. So I've (finally!) figured out how to turn them into art prints. This way I can hoard the originals and sell prints!

The process of turning my original paintings into art prints has also taking a lot of effort and time. I'm really pleased with the results and would love to know what you think of my new colorful, abstract prints

The Dot Meditation Painting Series is still ongoing in my art studio. I can't wait to see where the paintings next lead me! 
"I begin with an idea, then it becomes something else." - Pablo Picasso. Quote from the Master Artist on Rachael Grad Artist website