Have you ever looked at a beautiful painting and thought, “I wish I could do that?” Good news—you can. Painting isn’t a mysterious gift reserved for the talented. It’s a skill anyone can learn, as long as you approach it the right way.
After years of teaching painters from beginners to advanced, I’ve learned what separates people who make real progress from those who never start, or worse, stagnate and quit. It’s not rocket science; it’s these three simple keys:
1. Make time to practice
Art doesn’t happen in the gaps of your day—it needs intention. Even 15 minutes a few times a week can lead to big breakthroughs. Although the 10,000-hours myth has been debunked as an oversimplication, we do know that practice develops your eye, your hand and your confidence. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to start (or restart) your art journey, trust me—it’s now.
2. Learn from a teacher
Could you figure out painting on your own? Sure. But why spend years reinventing the wheel when a teacher can guide you past the common mistakes and straight to what works?
I offer classes that are friendly, approachable, and packed with techniques you’ll use for a lifetime. Whether you’ve never touched a brush or you’re ready to take your painting outdoors, you’ll find a class that fits your goals.
3. Embrace critique
Feedback isn’t failure—it’s the fastest way to grow. The right critique shows you what’s working (and what needs a tweak) without crushing your confidence. In my classes, you’ll get personalized feedback in a supportive community that celebrates progress.
An almost-apology
Last week my husband had a serious health emergency, one that isn’t over yet. I have good powers of concentration, but even I wasn’t able to put pen to paper during the crisis period, so there was no blog post Friday and this one is short. Sorry about that.
It’s a good reminder of something that’s been on my mind recently, that I won’t be around forever to teach you. Maybe it’s time for you to turn your vague “someday I’ll do that” into “I’m an artist.”
You can mine this blog for a wealth of free tips. Or, sign up for a workshop or self-directed classes below. And don’t forget to sign up to receive this blog via email.
Registration is now open for workshops in 2026! Reserve your spot:
- Advanced Plein Air Painting | Rockport, ME, July 13-17, 2026
- Sea & Sky | Acadia National Park, ME, August 2–7, 2026
- Find your Authentic Voice in Plein Air | Berkshires, MA, August 10-14, 2026
- New! Color Clinic 2026 | Rockport, ME, October 3-4, 2026
- New! Composition Week 2026 | Rockport, ME, October 5-9, 2026
Can’t commit to a full workshop? Work online at your own pace: