WORKSHOP Wednesday

Bigger isn’t Always Better : The Power of Small Art

Ever faced a giant, blank canvas and felt like running for the hills? I get it. The sheer size can be daunting, making it hard to even put down that first brushstroke or line.

But here's a little secret: creating smaller pieces, even tiny ones like 3x5 inches, can be a game-changer. And guess what? You don't always have to scale up to a larger size. Some artists thrive on creating small masterpieces. Every person has a size they feel most comfortable with, and that's perfectly okay.

Quick Wins and Instant Gratification

There's something incredibly satisfying about finishing a piece of art quickly. With larger works, it can feel like you're chipping away forever without seeing the end. Smaller pieces, on the other hand, can be done in a single session. This quick turnaround not only gives you a sense of accomplishment but also boosts your confidence. 

It's like getting a quick win in a game – it keeps you motivated and ready for the next challenge.

A Break Between the Big Stuff

I love working on large pieces, but sometimes I need a breather. Smaller works provide that perfect break. They allow me to step away from the big canvas, recharge, and still keep my creative juices flowing. 

It's a way to stay productive without the pressure of a massive project hanging over my head. This change of pace can be refreshing, offering a different perspective and keeping your creativity alive.

Experiment and Explore

Small pieces are great for trying out new techniques. Want to see how a new brush stroke looks or how a particular color combination works? Test it out on a small canvas. There's less pressure, and if it doesn't turn out the way you hoped, no big deal. It's just a small piece. 

This freedom to experiment can lead to some fantastic discoveries, which often end up influencing my larger works. But remember, it isn’t even necessary to scale up. If you love working small, embrace it. Many artists find their niche in creating intimate, detailed pieces that pack a big punch despite their size.

Inspiration for Bigger Projects

Interestingly, my smaller pieces often inspire my larger paintings. There's something about the spontaneity and simplicity of working small that sparks new ideas. I find myself looking at a 3x5 piece and thinking, "Wow, this would look amazing on a larger scale." It's like a sketchbook for ideas that I can later expand upon. But again, don’t feel pressured to go big. Some of the most impactful art remains small, cherished for its intricate details and personal touch.

Success for Overwhelmed Clients

Many of my clients have shared that when they feel overwhelmed, scaling down helps them regain control. The smaller size makes the task at hand seem more manageable. They can focus on creating rather than worrying about filling a huge canvas. This shift in perspective can make all the difference, turning what feels like a daunting task into a fun and achievable project. For some, sticking to small pieces becomes their preferred method, helping them to consistently produce and enjoy their art without the stress of larger works.

Finding Your Comfort Zone

Everyone has a size they feel most comfortable working with. For some, it's the expansive freedom of a large canvas. For others, it's the intimate space of a small one. There’s no right or wrong size. It’s all about what feels best for you. Working small doesn’t mean your art is less significant. In fact, some artists make their entire careers out of creating small, detailed works that captivate and inspire.

Art is Art, No Matter the Size

At the end of the day, art is art. The size of the piece doesn't determine its value or impact. Whether it's a sprawling mural or a tiny 3x5 canvas, what matters is the creativity and expression behind it. Small pieces are just as valid and meaningful as large ones. They can carry as much emotional weight and significance, sometimes even more due to their intimate nature.

So next time you're staring down a big, blank canvas and feeling stuck, grab a small piece of paper or a tiny canvas. Start creating without the pressure. You might find that it's exactly what you need to get back into your groove. 

And who knows? That small piece might just be the spark for your next big masterpiece, or it might become a cherished artwork in its own right.

Keep painting, keep exploring, and remember: every stroke counts, no matter how small. Find your comfort zone, whether it's large or small, and let your creativity shine.

See you in the studio!