My Artistic Journey: From Bob Ross to Custom Commissions

Winter Snow after Bob Ross

I started painting after watching Bob Ross produce one of his classics on TV in 2021. It was a rerun, but it sparked my creative juices. Having just retired, I felt it was time to rekindle my passion for a hobby that would challenge me and allow me to create something I hadn’t done in years: a painting. Bob worked extensively in oils, so I set out to gather the necessary tools—paints, solvents, liquin, and more.

Much to my wife's chagrin, my first attempts occurred during the winter months. I hadn’t converted my home office into the art studio it is today, so I set up in the Garden Room. Not the best idea! This led to my first accident: splashes of black oil paint on the floor and furniture. I was quickly banished to the office, where I froze while trying to paint.

Winter Lake

Several other attempts followed, like "Winter Lake," as I began to improve my skills, à la Bob Ross. However, I started to doubt my decision to stick with oil as my chosen medium. My art studio, now affectionately known as MOO (Mark's Old Office), was suffering from solvent spills and a growing number of filled 5L containers of waste solvent. It was clear: oil had to go. It was time to transition to acrylics.

The Turning Point: Commissions and Challenges

Then disaster struck. I received my first commission from one of my golfing mates, Danny. "Can you do me a painting of BB King?" he asked at the 19th hole. "Oh, can you do Muddy Waters?" chimed in Graham. Suddenly, I was in serious trouble. I hadn’t planned for this, and I didn’t think I was good enough.

How do you create portraits from a small picture to something that will hang on a wall? I grabbed my phone and turned to Google. I started reading and searching for a suitable image that I could scale up using the grid approach. My journey had begun sooner than I thought. Fifty books later—thank goodness for World of Books—I now have quite an extensive library at a relatively low cost, which I use as a valuable reference source regularly.

BB King and Muddy Waters were my last two oil paintings. Thankfully, I have stopped polluting the planet and MOO.

Embracing Acrylics: A Fresh Start

Switching to acrylics was a game-changer for me. They dried quickly, allowing me to layer and experiment without the long wait times associated with oils. I found that I could achieve vibrant colours and bold textures that truly brought my subjects to life. This medium opened up a world of possibilities, and I felt more confident in my abilities.

As I embraced acrylics, I also began to explore different techniques. I experimented with pouring, palette knife painting, and even mixed media. Each new method added depth to my work and helped me develop my unique style. I discovered that art is not just about the final product; it’s about the journey and the joy of creation.

Building a Community Around Art

One of the most rewarding aspects of my artistic journey has been connecting with others who share my passion. I joined local art groups and online communities where I could share my work, receive feedback, and learn from fellow artists. These interactions have been invaluable, providing encouragement and inspiration when I needed it most.

I’ve also started to give back by sharing my experiences and tips through this blog. I believe that art should be accessible to everyone, and I want to help others find their creative voice. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting, there’s always something new to learn and explore.

The Joy of Custom Artwork

Creating custom artwork is a fulfilling experience. Each commission presents a unique challenge and an opportunity to connect with the client. I love hearing their stories and understanding their vision. It’s a collaborative process that often leads to beautiful results.

When I paint a portrait, I strive to capture not just the likeness but also the essence of the person. It’s about telling their story through art. I’ve had the pleasure of creating pieces for friends, family, and even strangers who have become friends through the process. Each painting is a testament to the power of art to bring people together.

Conclusion: Keep Creating

As I reflect on my journey, I’m grateful for the challenges and triumphs that have shaped me as an artist. From my first hesitant strokes to creating custom commissions, every step has been a learning experience. I encourage you to pick up a brush, explore different mediums, and find your own artistic path. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about expression and enjoying the process.

So, let’s keep creating together! Whether you’re painting in your garden room or a dedicated studio, embrace the joy of making art. Who knows where your journey will take you next?