What subjects/styles do you think you’d like to make (also list what you know you don’t want to do), then narrow it down from there. For example, do you want to paint figures, landscapes, abstractions, etc.? What style do you want to use: realistic, expressionist, abstracted, etc.? Are you going to use a limited palette or have one color dominate? Too many options are as paralyzing as too few, so narrow your list down to one or two and start working with those. Use these printable art journal pages to get going. You can use a sketchbook more like a creativity journal, with as many words as pictures. You can also opt for a pocket sketchbook and pen and a larger one for when you’re painting on location. That way you don’t worry about being neat or organized since you’re merely recording thoughts and ideas for possible use on the proverbial rainy day. Make a huge switch by trying something such as watercolor pencils and a water brush, or encaustic painting. Or if you’re used to working with wet color, try working with dry color in the form of pastels. You can also add a medium to speed up or retard the rate at which your acrylic or oil paint dries.
