My very first painting was back in my last year of high school. I’d never done portraits or any form of painting really. I guess it was for a project I decided to paint “John Lennon”. It was way back when so it’s hard to remember specific details. I guess I had some small post card size canvas board and decided I'd use them to paint my picture. It was a struggle to get the shading just right. Were the proportions right? I basically stumbled my way along and eventually it started coming together. My art teacher was pleasantly surprised and so was I. I can’t believe it turned out the way it did. I completed this way back in 2004 and is hung proudly on my wall. I had it framed and tried to sell it at a local art show. I was made an offer, I either sell this painting or paint “Louis Armstrong” in the same style and for the same price. At the time I found it hard to part with “John Lennon” so I agreed to take on a new project. I felt like I just got lucky with how this painting turned out. Who would figure doing one painting would lead to a commission. Not only that, the lady who asked me to do the painting was a professional artist herself. She’s a local artist who’s done some fine work. The pressure was on! I had known her for a few years as she was a long time member at our gym. Here’s the initial sketch of “Louis Armstrong” Drawing was never really my strong suit. I think I probably erased this image several times until I was satisfied. Finished Painting “Louis Armstrong” 2005 Was it luck or talent? Perhaps a little bit of both. Being that I had absolutely no experience, I think it turned out pretty well. I think I sold it for (don’t quote me on this) $225. I often wonder where she hung this in her house. When you’re just starting out, you question your ability. You wonder if you’re good enough. Even after all these years, there’s part of me that wonders if I’m good enough. As I’ve gotten older I’ve learned it really doesn’t matter. You don’t necessarily have to be amazing at something to enjoy doing it. I believe that painting makes me happy. I’m glad to be blessed with the skill to paint something resembling what I see. It may not always turn out the way I want it to, but there’s always a lesson to be learned.
Taking a chance means risking success or failure. Maybe you’ve toyed with the idea of drawing or painting. Give it a shot! I’ve managed to sell quite a few more paintings and that’s more than I was expecting. Here I am with a website and more paintings under my belt. The point is to keep trying. You don’t have to study art to be good at it. Those who have the ability are truly blessed. Keep sharing your talent with the world! The Artist Within Check my facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/artistwithin86)
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Lauren Walker
As The Artist Within, I use the love for my small town of Port Perry as inspiration for my work. As a long time resident and artist I love to showcase its vivid landscapes and bold colors. There is beauty in our own backyard! Archives
February 2024
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