In last week’s plein air workshop I kept thinking about the similarities between Painting and Golf. I like to make analogies when I teach, to help students keep perspective on the creative process. By comparing painting to other activities like music or golf, the students can step back from their frustrations a bit, and see things in perspective.
“Achievement is largely the product of steadily raising one’s level of aspiration and expectation.” – Jack Nicklaus
3 Similarities:
- Both Painting and Golf are extremely challenging. In both painting and golf, the success rate is low, even for professionals. Tiger Woods does not expect to hit a hole in one on every hole, or even every game. Similarly, professional artists do not expect every painting to succeed the first time. Artists make preliminary sketches and studies, just as golfers take practice swings and practice putting and driving. Both Golf and Painting attract hobbyists and professionals alike.
- Practice is required for both Golf and Painting. Driving and putting are not the same as playing the game of golf against opponents. By the same token, class exercises and sketches are not the same as making a painting. Practice must be focused on improvement, not repeating the same mistakes over and over. Directed practice in golf might focus on correcting a swing. Similarly, directed practice in painting might focus on improving a value pattern or color scheme.
- Golfers and Painters must both focus on a good Mental Game. Keeping a positive mental outlook boosts confidence in both fields. Focus and attention are important to help overcome the difficulties of each pursuit. Success in golf or painting can often breed a kind of obsession, too. Both Golfers and Painters become passionate about their pursuit. The variety of golf courses, just like the variety of painting subjects, can entertain enthusiasts for a lifetime.
What other similarities can you think of between Painting and Golf?
***A quick reminder, for former students, I’m celebrating 10 years of Art is Truth the Blog by creating a new forum for interaction: Art is Truth Cadets Facebook Group!
If you’re a former student and you’d like to join – click the link above and request to join. We share work, opportunities and feedback here. I hope you’ll participate… it won’t be the same without YOU!
Here are a few select snapshots from my plein air workshop with Vistas and Vineyards! Click the thumbnails for the full image.
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- Mixed Media on paper 10″x11″, ©Ruth Armitage $325
New Workshop Announcements
ABC’s of Abstraction – International Society of Experimental Artists: September 24 – 28, 2018 – Newport Oregon
We will cover both the elements of design and the ‘mental game’ in art-making.
Using acrylic and collage, students will explore shape, line, color and texture to craft vibrant paintings that stir the emotions.
You will learn organizing principles, painting tips and techniques for overcoming self-doubt and indecision. Still a few spots left – Register Here
ABC’s of Abstraction – All Media Santa Clarita Artist’s Association: November 9 – 11, 2018
Contact Jeanne Iler for more information.
ABC’s of Abstraction – Acrylic: Tubac School of Fine Art, Tubac, AZ: January 11, 12 & 13, 2019.
More information Click here
I hope you can join me!
“Whistling” Watercolor on paper, 10″x11″ ©Ruth Armitage $295 unframed
Ruth, a couple of other comparisons to note:
1. Golfers use a whole array of different clubs for different purposes: woods, wedges, irons, etc., just as artists need a good variety of trusted brushes.
2. It is important to keep your eye on the ball, not on the club when you swing, lest you miss the mark.
3. Your stance is an important to the swing as the club.
4. Most golfers take a few practice swings (have you ever watched Stephen Quiller fake a stoke across the painting before he lays down paint?)
Great analogies Diane! Thanks ?