What size works? (Size matters) | Eileen Hennemann

I’m all over the place when it comes to canvas sizes. Some artists I know stick with one size to do studies on, and another to paint on. Others paint on whatever size of canvas is in the studio but are usually of similar size. I never know what the day or content will bring me and because I am still in awe (frightened) of large canvases, there aren’t any big blank ones in my studio. I stick with smaller ones. Sometimes I feel brave and will do a medium size but find I don’t breathe when I’m working big. I bet there’s some analysis needed on that but I figure if I’m happy creating small, then that’s what I should do.

I envision artists at their easels standing back from the large canvas resting there, judging and pondering the brushmarks they just made, then returning within arms-length with their long-handled brush and continue working the image. I really should overcome my fear and go for it. Several of the Ten Collective painters have no fear and render some beautiful large pieces that look amazing on display. Maybe for this show coming up? We’ll see.

There’s an article I read to give me some inspiration regarding canvas sizes. It was helpful when thinking about what size I’d want to invest in and enjoy. Is there enough space for that big painting I have fallen in love with? Darn - I’ll make the space for it! Or, do I always stick with a general medium size that compliments others on our salon wall? Then again, there are small ones that are a joy to approach closely and wander the scene that is there. However you look at it, and whatever size, it is the connection I feel with the painting that I see and love, and therefore makes me want to look at it time and time again. The content varies widely, from landscapes to abstract, and each painting has a story that came with it or that I made for it. I am very grateful for each and every painting we have. Thank you fellow artists for your passion and love. I know how hard you work to share your gift.