How to Learn to Paint with Limited Time with Patti Vincent

When Patti Vincent (Ep.75) was first learning to paint, she had limited time. But instead of letting this be a deterrent, she got strategic about how she organized her schedule and learned to make the most of the time she did have.

First, she organized her learning around something specific and ongoing, her art classes. She had class in the morning when her son was at school and made sure to do her homework in between sessions. She augmented that with additional painting and drawing outside of class.

This meant that she was always learning something new and continuing to build on her skills.

Second, she also took advantage of the times when her middle school son has after school activities or friend hangouts. If her son didn’t need her, she used that time to get her art homework done.

Third, she understood that weekends weren’t primarily for art, and that was OK. Weekends were for family, social activities, and household chores. By having that clear distinction, she made sure she made time to attend to life but also made time to attend to art.

Put it to Practice:

You don't have to be a full-time artist to get good at painting and drawing.

You do need focus and an approach that has you working consistently.

What helps make you a consistent painter?

That answer changes for everyone. And the goal is to find something that works with your life as you’re living NOW.

Maybe it's taking part in a 20-day challenge on Instagram. Maybe it's signing up for a class and being rigorous about your homework Mon-Fri and then you take the weekends off.

You don't need hours and hours each day for your art to see real improvement, but you do need to find ways to become consistent in your practice. Consistency is what builds skills and helps you stay encouraged.