Now let’s do it again!
As an artist, I’ve always been drawn to the grand and the bold. I wanted my art to make statements, to evoke emotions, and to leave a lasting impression. But, in pursuit of perfection and impact, I often found myself overwhelmed and frustrated. That was until I stumbled upon an experiment that would change my approach to art forever: painting small every week for a year.
The idea was simple: dedicate just 30-40 minutes each week to creating a tiny masterpiece, no larger than 6×6 inches. No pressure, no expectations, just pure creativity. At first, I was skeptical. How could something so small possibly make a difference in my art? But, I was determined to see it through.
I’ve recently completed my “Version 1” 6×6 Challenge and it was such a huge hit…
I’m super excited to announce that I am launching a NEW VERSION 2 6×6 Challenge on May 5, 2025!
Both Version 1 and 2 are all paintings that inspire me and no 2 paintings will be the same in each version, so take the Version 1 Challenge if you haven’t done so yet, take the Version 2 Challenge which begins next week, OR even better, take BOTH Challenges. Landscapes, Barns, Chapels, Animals, and anything that depicts outdoor living.
Week 1-10: Breaking Down Barriers
As the weeks went by, I began to notice a shift. My brushstrokes became more confident, my color palette more vibrant, and my compositions more thoughtful. The small size forced me to simplify, to focus on the essentials, and to let go of unnecessary details.
Week 11-20: Experimentation and Freedom
As I settled into the routine, I started to experiment with different techniques, brush strokes and styles. I played with textures, patterns, and colors. The small size gave me the freedom to take risks, to try new things, and to fail without consequence.
Week 21-30: Developing Discipline
By this point, I had developed a consistent routine. I was painting every week, without fail. The discipline I built through this project spilled over into other areas of my art. I started to tackle larger projects with renewed confidence, knowing that I had the skills and dedication to see them through.
Week 31-52: Growth and Surprise
The final stretch was incredible. I had developed a sense of trust in my abilities, and my art had evolved in ways I never thought possible. I was pushing boundaries, exploring new themes, and creating pieces that I was truly proud of. The small paintings became a reflection of my growth, a testament to the power of consistent practice.
The Benefits of Painting Small
Looking back, I can see that painting small every week for a year had a profound impact on my art journey. Here are a few key takeaways:
- Improved technique: The small size forced me to refine my skills, to focus on the essentials, and to develop muscle memory.
- Increased creativity: The freedom to experiment and take risks led to new ideas, new styles, and new perspectives.
- Developed discipline: The weekly routine taught me the value of consistency, dedication, and perseverance.
- Boosted confidence: Seeing my progress, no matter how small, gave me the confidence to tackle larger projects and to trust my abilities.
The Power of Small
Painting small every week for a year taught me that it’s not about the size of the canvas, but about the size of your commitment. It’s not about creating grand masterpieces, but about cultivating a love for the process. The small paintings may be tiny, but they hold a wealth of knowledge, experience, and joy.
If you’re looking to reignite your passion for art, to develop your skills, or simply to have fun, I encourage you to give small painting a try. You never know where it might lead you.
