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Me, Myself & Art

If you enjoy my art this is the place to learn about my process and where I find my inspiration.  I look forward to sharing my art journey with you!
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30 Abstract Art Prompts by Courtney Hatcher

2/11/2021

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Coming up with concepts and themes for art is one of the most satisfying aspects of the art process.  The ideas behind the art are the foundation of the piece.  Without a strong foundation the entire piece might fall apart.

One of the easiest ways to develop a concept for an abstract painting is to begin with a simple word, phrase, or idea.  Keeping a list, journal, or sketchbook full of prompts is a great way to remember themes you are interested in exploring. Having these ideas set aside will not only make the conceptualization process easier, it comes in very handy when you experience artist's block.

(To learn more tricks to banish artist's block check out my post, "A Sketch A Day Keeps Artist's Block Away" , for brainstorming tips check out, "42 Abstract Art Concepts to Paint") 

Below are a list of words that will prompt your creativity!
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Begin With A Definition

Below are 30 words and their definitions to get you started on your next abstract art concept.  To see the art I've created that was inspired by these ideas just click on the word! (The light grey titles indicate a link)  I haven't explored every concept yet, but as I do I will link the final piece to the word in this list.

Challenge yourself and have fun!

(All definitions were found in Webster's Dictionary)

"Solace"  
To cheer in grief or under calamity.  To comfort.  To relieve in affliction.  To console.  An easing of grief, loneliness, discomfort.

"Tender"
To present for acceptance.  To offer in payment or satisfaction of an obligation.  A formal offer, as of marriage, contractual terms, etc.  One who attends or takes care of something.  Easily impressed, broken, bruised, or injured.  Very sensitive.  Weak of constitution or physique.  Requires careful handling.  Weak, immature, young.  That has or expresses affection, love, consideration.  Impressionable.  Sensitive to others feelings, sympathetic, compassionate.  Careful, considerate, gentle, mild.  Of soft or delicate quality.

"Circus"
In ancient Rome, an oval or oblong arena with tiers of seats around it, used for games, chariot races, etc.  A similar arena, usually enclosed in a tent, for a show of acrobats, wild animals, clowns, etc.  Any riotously entertaining person, thing, etc.

"Trust"
Confidence.  A reliance or resting of the mind on the integrity, veracity, justice, friendship, or the sound principle of another person or thing.  Responsibility or obligation resulting from this.  To rely on.  To allow to do something without fear of consequences.  To depend on.

"Polite"
Smooth, lustrous, glossy.  Polished, cultured, elegant, correct, or refined in behavior.  Courteous, having good manners.

"Sleek"
Smooth and shiny.  Glossy, as a highly polished surface.  Well-groomed appearance.  Polished in speech and behavior, especially in a way that does not seem genuine.  Unctuous, oily.  With ease and dexterity.
Picture
"Extension" by Courtney Hatcher. Acrylic on Canvas. 11" x 14".

"Protection"

Defense.  Shelter from evil.  Preservation from loss, injury, or annoyance.

"Prosperity"
Advance or gain in anything good or desirable.  Successful progress in any business or enterprise.

"Mobility"
Movable.  Not firm, stationary, or fixed.  Easily moved, very fluid.  Changeable.  Kinetic rather than static rhythm.

"Journey"
Travel from one place to another.  Passage through life.

"Messenger"
A harbinger, a forerunner.  One who or that which foreshows.  One who delivers communication.

"Development"
A step or stage in growth, advancement, etc.  An event or happening.  The elaboration of a theme.

"Anticipate"
To take or act before another, so as to forestall him.  To take first possession of.  To take up before the proper time.  To foresee.  To consider beforehand.  To prevent by acting beforehand.  To do in advance.

"Suggestion"
The process through which an idea is brought to the mind because of its connection or association with an idea already in the mind.  A faint hint or indication.  A small amount, a trace.  The inducing of an idea, decision, etc., by means of a verbal or other stimulus, in another individual, who accepts it uncritically.

"Extension"
Stretching out in any direction.  To expand or dilate in size.  To stretch or reach forth.  To enlarge or widen.  To continue or prolong.

"Wisdom"
The faculty of making the best use of knowledge, experience, understanding, etc.  Good judgement, sagacity.  Learning, erudition, knowledge.

"Cooperation"
The act of working together or operating together to one end.  Concurrent effort or labor.
"Gradual"
Proceeding by steps or degrees.  Advancing or occurring little by little.  Passing from one step to another.  Regular and slow.

"Insurmountable"
That which cannot be overcome.

"Open"
In a state which permits entrance or exit.  Not closed, covered, clogged or shut.  In a state which permits freedom of passage.  Unsealed.  Having spaces between.  Not settled or decided.  Free from prejudice or bigotry.  Free from restrictions.  Clear.  Ready to do, hear, see, or receive anything.

"Passage"
Movement from one place to another.  Change or progress from one process or condition to another.  Permission.  That which happens or takes place between persons.  A portion of something spoken or written.  To make a voyage or journey.
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"Hypnosis" by Courtney Hatcher. Ink on paper. 9" x 12".

"Blockage"
Any obstruction or cause of obstruction.  Hinderance, obstacle.  A sudden interruption of passage, causing conflict.  To impede the passage or progress of.

"Communication"
The act of imparting, conferring, or delivering, from on to another.  Intercourse by words, letters, or messages.  Interchange of thoughts or opinions, by conference or other means.  Information or intelligence imparted by word or writing.

"Link"
Any of the series of rings or loops making up a chain or chain armor.  A section of something resembling a chain.  A point or stage in a series of circumstances.  Anything serving to connect or tie.  To unite by something intervening.  To be or become connected, to join.

"Precognition"
Previous knowledge.  Antecedent examination.

"Attitude"
The posture or position of a person showing or meant to show a mental state, emotion, or mood.  The manner of acting, feeling, or thinking that shows one's disposition, opinion, etc.  The posture, disposition, or action in which a figure is placed.

Picture
"Restless" by Courtney Hatcher. Colored pencil on paper. 9" x 12".
"External"
Outward, exterior.  Outwardly visible.  Acting or coming from without.  For outward appearance or show.

"Joining"
To connect or bring together.  To make into one, to unite.  To enter into the company of.  To come together.  To participate.

"Hypnosis"
A sleeplike condition psychically induced, usually by another person, in which the subject loses consciousness but responds, with certain limitations, to the suggestions of the hypnotist.

"Restless"
The inability to relax.  Unquiet, uneasy, continually moving.  Without sleep.  Never or almost never quiet or still.  Always active or inclined to action.  Desiring change, discontented.


Now that you have some ideas it's time to start creating!  Have fun with it and remember every art project is a journey.  

To purchase fine art prints and home decor items featuring my original art visit cghatcherart.etsy.com or cghatcherart.redbubble.com


General Disclaimer:  All information provided on this website is intended for informational and entertainment use only.  Information contained in this website is not intended to be advice.  By accessing, viewing or using this website you are agreeing that I am not liable or responsible for your business or personal results, or any other results that you may have as a result of information presented to you through this website.  You accept and agree that you are solely responsible for your results and that I provide no express or implied guarantees or promises to you.  This blog is about the process and inspiration of the artist, Courtney Hatcher.  I reserve the right to change the focus or content of this blog at any time.


​
©Courtney Hatcher All Rights Reserved.  The use of any image from this site is prohibited unless prior written permission from the artist is obtained.
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Me, Myself & Art:  Blog Index

11/26/2019

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Me, Myself & Art

Blog Index

by Courtney Hatcher

Below you will find a list of all of my current Blog posts​.  Just click on a title to see more.
  1. My Journey to Becoming an Artist
  2. The Top 4 Reasons I Use Acrylic Paint
  3. Anatomy of a Painting:  Spiral
  4. The Importance of Sketching:  Activate Your Creativity
  5. The Importance of Sketching:  A Sketch a Day Keeps Artist's Block Away
  6. Abstract Art Challenge:  How to Create a Concept for an Abstract Painting
My Journey to Becoming an Artist
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The Top 4 Reasons I Use Acrylic Paint
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Anatomy of a Painting:  Spiral
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The Importance of Sketching:  Activate Your Creativity
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The Importance of Sketching:  A Sketch a Day Keeps Artist's Block Away
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Abstract Art Challenge:  How to Create a Concept for an Abstract Painting
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42 Abstract Concepts to Paint

8/21/2019

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Me, Myself & Art

by Courtney Hatcher
42 Abstract Concepts to Paint a blog by Courtney Hatcher.  Me, Myself & Art Abstract Art Challenge

How to Create a Concept for an
​Abstract Painting


​Inspiration for art is found anywhere and everywhere.

Below is a list of words that represent different actions, emotions and thoughts.  Use these abstract concept prompts to challenge yourself or simply as a starting point for a new piece of art.  (Honestly it doesn't have to be a painting.  You can use these concepts as a starting point no matter what type of art you do.)

A strong concept is essential to the art making process.  No matter what style of art you make and no matter what materials you use.  The why? is always important!
​
Abstract art challenge. 42 Abstract concepts to paint, terms and themes for abstract art. Courtney Hatcher's blog Me, Myself & Art

Brainstorming


Sometimes the flow of a concept is intuitive.  Sometimes, it is based on the kind of art you make.  Other times, conceptualizing takes a lot of time and thought.  No matter what your process is, being able to articulate your choices is an important part of being an artist.

One of the ways I work through my concept is to brainstorm based on a word that represents some kind of emotion, or theme.  I free-write lists, charts, sketches and other thoughts based on the word or theme I have chosen.

Free-Writing

Free-writing, or stream of consciousness, is where you write in an uninterrupted flow for a set period of time.  You don't take too much time to think about what you are writing, you simply write down whatever pops into your head.  Letting one thought lead into another until you have fully explored what your theme means to you.
Some questions I like to keep in mind when I'm brainstorming and free-writing are:

  • What materials will I use to make the artwork?  Why?
  • How will I create the artwork?  What techniques will I use?  How will I incorporate the elements of design into my piece to suggest the message I desire?
  • Will the artwork be large or small?  Why?
  • What are all the variations of the word I've chosen?
  • Synonyms?  Definition?
  • What are the opposite meanings/associations of the word?  Antonyms?
  • What other concepts or ideas are similar to the word?
  • What might the word mean or represent to someone else?
  • What imagery, literal and figurative, do I associate with the word?  Sense memory (sight, sound, taste, touch, smell)
  • What is the first thing that comes to mind when I hear or say the word?
  1.  Is it directly related to the word?​  (example:  Awakening.  Awareness.  Opening your eyes.  Realizing something.  Recognizing the truth of a situation.  Shining a light on something that was hidden.)  In this example I build from the word, focusing on the definition.  It is a direct path from the inspiration word through the whole free-writing session.
  2. Does the word remind you of something else?  (example:  Awakening.  Waking up.  I need to set my alarm for the meeting tomorrow.  I can't be late.  Time.  We live our lives based on time.  We judge every task in relation to time.  What would life be like if we didn't?)  In this example the word is used as a starting point, but by the end the theme has evolved into contemplating the impact of measuring time.
          I usually end up combining the two examples when I free-write!   

If you've never used free-writing to work through an idea give it a try!  It works great for me.  But don't worry, if it's not your thing there are plenty of other ways to brainstorm your abstract theme.

One other way I brainstorm is to put all of my ideas to paper in list form.  I make a checklist of ideas, materials, and techniques.  Or, I'll draw a chart or diagram and work through the problem or theme that way.

I find, with art and life, that trying something new can help you find solutions to your problem while expanding the boundaries of your comfort zone.  It's great to try new techniques and methods. 

Maybe they will be helpful.  Maybe not.  You won't know until you try!

In the end, the act of writing out your ideas is what matters.  

The best thing about analyzing and writing about your theme before you start the piece...

It makes writing artist statements and show proposals SO MUCH EASIER!!!

Take the time to put your thoughts to paper, you won't regret it.

Me, Myself & Art. An art challenge.  Paint 42 abstract concepts in 42 days. Learn how to create a concept for an abstract artwork

To Get You Started:

(Definitions found in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the Cambridge Dictionary and Dictionary.com)

*See the artwork I created based on these themes by clicking on the word! 
​
APEX
"The uppermost point."

AWAKENING
"A coming into awareness."

BECOMING
"To come into existence.  To undergo change or development."
BURST
"To break open, apart, or into pieces usually from impact or from pressure from within.  A sudden outbreak.  A sudden intense effort."

CASCADE
"Something arranged or occurring in a series, or in a succession of stages, so that each stage derives from, or acts upon, the product of the proceeding."

CATHARSIS
"Purification or purgation of the emotions."

CONSCIOUS
"Awake.  Controlled thought or observation."

CONVERSION
"Change or transformation from one state or condition to another."

COSMOS
​"Universe."
"Cosmos" acrylic painting on canvas by Courtney Hatcher. 24" x 44"
DICHOTOMY
"Something with seemingly contradictory qualities."

DISCREET
"Careful not to cause embarrassment or attract too much attention, especially by keeping something secret."

DRIFT
"To move or float smoothly and effortlessly.  To move in a random or casual way."

EMERGE
"To become manifest.  To rise from an obscure or inferior condition."

FALLEN
"To suffer ruin, defeat or failure.  To commit an immoral act.  To pass suddenly into a new state or condition."

FLASH
"To appear suddenly.  A sudden burst of light."

FLUX
"A continued flow.  Constant change."

GROWTH
"Progressive development.  Evolution."

HARVEST
​"The product or reward of exertion."
HUSH
​"To become quiet.  Suppress."

IGNITE
"To set afire.  To begin to glow."

IMPEDIMENT
"Something that makes progress, movement, or achieving something difficult or impossible.

INFLATION
"To expand or increase abnormally or imprudently."

INSTINCT
"A natural or inherent aptitude, impulse, or capacity."
"Instinct" an Acrylic Painting on Board by Courtney Hatcher. 24" x 30"
LISTEN
"To hear with thoughtful attention."

LONELY
"Producing a feeling of bleakness or desolation."

PIERCED
"Forcing a way into or through something."

POISON
"A substance that through its chemical action usually kills, injures or impairs an organism."

PRESSURE
"The burden of physical or mental distress."

RADIATE
"To spread abroad or around as if from a center."

RELEASE
"To set free from restraint, confinement, or servitude."

RHYTHM
"Movement or fluctuation marked by the regular recurrence or natural flow of related elements."
​
"Secret" acrylic painting on canvas board by Courtney Hatcher. 8" x 10"
SECRET
​"Kept from knowledge or view.  Working with hidden aims or methods."

SELF-WORTH
"The sense of one's own value or worth as a person."

SHIFT
"To make a change."

SOLITUDE
"The quality or state of being alone or remote from society."

SONAR
"An apparatus that detects the presence and location of a submerged object by means of sonic and supersonic waves reflected back to it from the object."
SPIRAL
"A continuously spreading and accelerating increase or decrease."

SUSPENSION
"The act of hanging.  The temporary prevention of something from continuing or being in force or effect."

SYNTHESIS
"The composition or combination of parts or elements so as to form a whole."

TANGLE
"A complicated or confused state or condition.  To involve so as to hamper, obstruct, or embarrass."

VISION
"The act or power of seeing.  A manifestation to the senses of something immaterial."

VORTEX
"A mass of air or water that spins around very fast and pulls objects into its empty center."
"Spiral" an Acrylic Painting on Canvas by Courtney Hatcher. 11" x 14"

The Challenge...

Now that you have a starting point for some abstract concepts, challenge yourself.

Everyday for the next 42 days explore one of these concepts.  Draw, paint, sculpt, choreograph, make music!  Whatever your artistic calling, use one concept per day and create something new!


Not sure you want to jump right into making a big piece of art take a look at my Importance of Sketching series for some tips on getting started!
​General Disclaimer:  All information provided on this website is intended for informational and entertainment use only.  Information contained in this website is not intended to be advice.  By accessing, viewing or using this website you are agreeing that I am not liable or responsible for your business or personal results, or any other results that you may have as a result of information presented to you through this website.  You accept and agree that you are solely responsible for your results and that I provide no express or implied guarantees or promises to you.  This blog is about the process and inspiration of the artist, Courtney Hatcher.  I reserve the right to change the focus or content of this blog at any time.
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A Sketch A Day Keeps Artist's Block Away

5/22/2019

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Me, Myself & Art

by Courtney Hatcher

The Importance of Sketching Everyday Part 2

A sketch a day keeps artist's block away. Why sketching is important. Abstract line drawing. Courtney Hatcher
Artist's Block is an obstacle that every artist faces at one point or another.

It doesn't matter what kind of art you make (painting, drawing, music, choreography, sculpture, poetry, etc).  All artists deal with it.  It is a problem.

It doesn't matter what phase of your career you are in or the frequency with which you create art.  Artist's Block is something that we all deal with.  It happens and it sucks but there are things we can do to help alleviate and lessen the occurrence of Artist's Block.

One of the most important tools an artist has at their disposal during bouts of Artist's Block is their sketchbook.

When you are feeling blocked taking a little time to sketch or doodle can be the most effective way to get back on track.

Artist's Block doesn't just happen when you are coming up with ideas, it can happen at any point throughout the creative process.  There are three points during my process that I notice I am plagued with Artist's Block more so than any other times.  Right smack in the middle of a project, during my conceptualization process, and before I've even decided to start the new project.

Sketching is one of the best techniques I've encountered to fight Artist's Block whenever it may strike.
Organic Line drawing in blue, green and yellow. colored pencil sketch. C. G. Hatcher Art
Organic Shape Study 9 by C. G. Hatcher

Feeling Stuck in the Middle of a Project

Sometimes I get to a certain point in a project when I know I'm not finished but I can't quite put my finger on what is needed to complete the piece.  When this happens taking some space away from the project is just what I need.

Stepping away from the piece of art that has me creatively stumped allows me to clear my head and when I come back it will be with fresh eyes. 

Occasionally the act of just leaving the room and doing something else for a little while is all I need to be refreshed and feel ready to work again.

Simply stepping away doesn't always work though.

​There are times when I just get stuck.
Simple as that.

Whether the composition is off or I'm not feeling the theme come through in the colors or textures.  Something just isn't clicking.  I know if I keep working on it when I'm in this blocked mindset that I'll just make it worse.  And there's nothing I hate more than wasting paint by creating layers that I know I'm just going to hide later.
My paintings have a sense of looseness and improvisation to them.  

However, they are created with deliberation.

Every layer, color, stroke, shape, etc., is well thought out and intentional.  Sometimes I make happy mistakes but keeping them in the final piece is also a deliberate choice.

So when I get stuck at any point of the painting it can turn into a conceptual nightmare for me.  I get into my own head and over think it, which always leads to sad mistakes if I force myself to paint through the block.

There are a few things I do to pull myself out of the funk of Artist's Block.  

Honestly, my favorite thing to do when I'm feeling stuck is to go outside and take a walk around my neighborhood or in the park.
The symptoms of sketching include enhanced creativity, out of the box thinking. Sketch everyday by Courtney Hatcher
Unfortunately, living in Michigan that is not always an option.

When the weather is nice here it is breathtaking!  On the flip side the weather in Michigan spends a lot of time being super cold, rainy and gloomy.  When it's 40° and raining a walk isn't the best option.  I've had pneumonia enough times to know better!

At times like these (December through April!), when I can't go for a walk, the best way to find some new inspiration and to work through my Artist's Block is to sketch.

Sitting down somewhere quiet with my sketchbook and pencils always works.  It doesn't matter what I draw, or how long I spend doing it.  It always clears my head.

Walking and sketching do the same thing for me.  They clear my head, pushing all the millions of little things I have to do out of the way and let me live in the moment.
Colorful layered drawing by Courtney Hatcher. Colored Pencil used to create movement and organic composition.
Organic Shape Study 2 by C. G. Hatcher
When you sketch you allow your brain to stay active while at the same time allowing your focus to wander and work through problems that you may have been carrying around.

Sketching is not always a "Eureka!" moment, but it never fails that when I go back to my painting after having spent some time sketching that I always see what I need to do to move forward with the artwork.

Blocked At Concept

Jolts of Artist's Block will hit me during my conceptualization process well before I ever even put paint onto the canvas!

Feeling blocked when I'm developing my theme is more common for me than getting stuck while I'm actually painting.

For my personal process and artistic style most of my work happens before I even set up my easel! 

​I spend a significant amount of time brainstorming and analyzing my theme before I begin painting.
With my art I express the depth of an individual's emotional journey while also reflecting a greater universal connection.  The micro sensation I am exploring can make demonstrating the larger connection more difficult.

Sometimes, when I get too tangled up in my theme, or I can't decide the best way to marry it to a composition or colors, I get completely stuck.

When this happens I have to go back to, or reconnect with, my initial inspiration, which is usually something simple.  For instance, the texture of bark on a particularly old tree I saw while on a walk in the park, the movement of a reflection beneath the surface of recently disturbed water, or even the person who cut me off in traffic experiencing instant karma by being immediately stopped at a red light.  These sorts of simple, often mundane, experiences almost always act as the starting point of my thought process.

From there I begin to analyze what it is about that simple experience or observation that reflects a heightened abstract emotion or sensation and how it relates to whatever I may be going through at the time.
To reconnect with these inspirations and begin to brainstorm new ways to go about expressing them visually I always rely on my sketchbook.

With all of these ideas flooding my brain the best thing I can do is dump them all onto paper.  I just start doodling. 

I let my mind sort of relax into the drawing, using whichever shapes, lines and colors that feel good in the moment. 

By doing this I am allowing my brain the break it needs to work through all of my self-imposed confusion.  I am also experimenting with my compositions without wasting my expensive painting materials.

Sometimes my concept comes together after sketching for only a few minutes.  Once I'm focused on the sketch the ideas just start to flow out of me.
Alleviate artist's block by sketching a little bit everyday. Blog by Courtney Hatcher
Other times it might take working through multiple pages in my sketchbook before I'm pleased with my thought process.

Either way, utilizing sketching when I'm blocked always helps me work out my concept if I find myself experiencing Artist's Block.

Blocked Before I Begin

The last, and most frustrating, point in my process where I experience Artist's Block is before I even decide to begin a new project.

Sometimes I feel blocked before I have a new concept in mind.

As an artist there should be nothing more enjoyable than getting my supplies out and making art.

The ugly truth is, sometimes it feels hard to do that much.

There are times in my life, usually when I'm exhausted on some level or overwhelmed by stress, that making art seems like the hardest thing in the world.  Even though it's the one thing that would probably help alleviate the stress and exhaustion the most.

When this happens to me I start to feel extremely guilty and ashamed of myself.  I'm an artist.  What's wrong with me that I don't feel like making art?  Shouldn't it be easy and fun all the time?

The answer is no.

It's not always easy.  Sometimes showing up and being creative is hard.  In life we always want things to be simple and pleasant.  The reality is that some of the most rewarding things in life are difficult and take hard work to achieve.  Art is no different.
Ink drawing reflecting directional movement. Scribble and Line drawing by C. G. Hatcher, Artist.
Organic Shape Study 1 by C. G. Hatcher
When I'm going through one of these periods where deciding to start is like moving a mountain I have to forcefully remind myself that there's nothing wrong with me. 

Sometimes other aspects of my life get in the way and make everything more difficult.  It doesn't mean I'm wrong, or a bad artist.  It's simply a signal from my body and my brain that I need to slow down and practice some self-care.

When we are feeling lazy, or stressed, or emotionally overwhelmed it's super important to remember to be kind to ourselves.  Speaking from experience, beating yourself up never helps.

I find when I'm in this situation that taking it slow is the only way forward.  It is important that I make the effort, but when I'm feeling this kind of total block throwing myself head first into a big project will not end well.

That is why sketching is so important.
When I can't find the energy or the inspiration to drag myself into the studio to start a painting I know I can grab my sketchbook, sit in a comfy chair, and draw for a little while.  The more I convince myself to sketch the more I let go of all the mental blocks that are holding me back from my bigger projects.

Sometimes beginning is the hardest part.  

Maintaining a habit of sketching will help jump-start you and lead you into the bigger projects. 

Just a Little Sketching Everyday...

Artist's Block can strike at any time.  

No matter which point of the creative process you are in when it hits sketching will help you get back on track.

Remember, be kind to yourself and accept that stress will take it's toll on your creativity.

Just know that a little bit of sketching everyday will help when you are feeling stuck.

As long as you have a surface to doodle on you will be able to beat the Block!

Don't Miss...

If you haven't read Part One of this series, me-myself-art-activate-your-creativity.html, check it out today!  In it I share how you can use sketching to activate you creativity!
Picture
©Courtney Hatcher All Rights Reserved.  The use of any image from this site is prohibited unless prior written permission from the artist is obtained.
​
​

General Disclaimer:  All information provided on this website is intended for informational and entertainment use only.  Information contained in this website is not intended to be advice.  By accessing, viewing or using this website you are agreeing that I am not liable or responsible for your business or personal results, or any other results that you may have as a result of information presented to you through this website.  You accept and agree that you are solely responsible for your results and that I provide no express or implied guarantees or promises to you.
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Me, Myself & Art: Activate Your Creativity

4/22/2019

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The Importance of Sketching Everyday

by Courtney Hatcher
Activate your creativity, a blog post by Courtney Hatcher. The importance of sketching. Abstract art using organic shape and vibrant color.

Inspiration is Everywhere

As an artist it is important to create new art, to experiment and grow.

Unfortunately, life often gets in the way of studio time.  It is not always possible to create a masterpiece everyday.  That is why sketching is so important in the routine of an artist.

The amount of time you can spend sketching everyday is not as important as the act itself.  Sketch for an hour or two if you get lost in the moment, but even five minutes of drawing will have a huge impact on your art, your career and your day to day life.
Even if you are not an artist, taking a few minutes out of your day to doodle can activate the creative parts of your brain.  Being able to think outside the box is a skill that has value in any job or life situation.  I believe that drawing everyday can improve those skills.

In this four part blog series I will explain why I believe a little bit of sketching, or art journaling of some kind, a day can keep your art fresh and alive.  Taking the time to sketch daily activates your creativity, enhances your problem solving abilities, alleviates artists' block and allows you to spend time enjoying your passion.

Every artist works at a different pace, has different obligations and responsibilities that take time away from the creation process.  Sketching allows you to create something everyday, even when you don't have time for a big project.

​The best part about sketching is you can do it anywhere.
Abstract figure drawing by C. G. Hatcher, Organic shapes make up the form of two cropped figures. Colored Pencil sketch in dark and light blue with orange.
Figure Study by Courtney Hatcher, Artist. Colored Pencil on Paper.
Maybe you can't take the time in the morning or the evening to sit down and just sketch, that's ok.  Keep a little sketchbook or notebook in your car or purse and you can sketch on the go!  (I don't recommend sketching while driving but if you have one in your car it will be available to you during your downtime.)  If you take public transportation to work you can sketch on the way, during your lunch break, while the kids are napping, sitting in the waiting room at the doctor, etc,.

Some of my best doodles can be found in the margins of my Algebra 101 notebook.

​Inspiration is everywhere after all.

Part One:
Activate Your Creativity

Blue, red and orange colored pencil drawing of two abstract figures.  Courtney Hatcher uses organic shapes layered to represent the figure.
Figure Study by Courtney Hatcher, Artist. Colored Pencil on Paper.
  • The Light Switch
Sketching everyday is like flipping the creativity light switch from off to on.

It's visual brainstorming.  Exploring your feelings and thoughts through color, line and form can open up avenues of thought that may have felt blocked.

Just the other day my sister was telling me that her and her co-workers had been having a hard time coming up with ideas for a project they had been working on all week.  Then at the end of the week during her break she doodled to get her mind off of it and something fantastic happened!  When she went back to the project she just seemed to have one idea after another and her newfound creativity inspired her co-workers as well.  By the end of the day they had the project wrapped up.

Sometimes the best ideas start with a doodle.

I like to make sketching one of the first things I do every morning.  When I begin my day with a creative task it seems like that creative momentum follows me and pushes me throughout the rest of my day.
Quote from C. G. Hatcher's blog, Activate your creativity.  Organic shape line drawing in warm colors.
  • The Habit of a Creative Mindset
Sketching everyday creates a habit that can effect your mindset in a positive way.

The activities we choose to give our time to become our habits.  What we train our minds and bodies to do impacts every aspect of our lives, positively or negatively.

Everyone wants to live a fulfilling, happy, life.  The most effective way to do that, in my experience, is by changing your mindset.  Creating habits that affect my life positively is the simplest way I've found to change my mindset for the better.

For me, sketching has become one of those happy habits.

I've found that when I take the time to enjoy my creativity and do this one little thing that's just for me I'm a happier version of myself.  As an artist, it's one small action I can take to move forward in a more positive, creative fashion.
The habit of sketching not only improves my mindset it helps me to be a better artist.  Which in itself makes my personal world a more positive place.  Sketching everyday allows me to practice and hone my skills as an artist.  Committing to this challenge everyday pushes me to evolve artistically and to grow as a person.
  • ​Meditation and Release
I sometimes use sketching as a form of meditation.  I sit in a quiet space and let myself focus solely on the paper in front of me. 

Taking the time to quietly sketch allows my mind and body to let go of all the things that are stressing me out.  I can put my responsibilities, anxieties and dramas on the back burner and just relax into my sketchbook.

In this busy world where a million different things are competing for our attention 24/7 it's important to step back and give some of that attention to ourselves.  Sketching is a good way to check in with yourself, it can be a form of self-care.

If I've had a particularly stressful day I find that sketching in the evening helps me clear my mind and calm down before I go to sleep.  Nothing is worse than tossing and turning all night because I'm worrying and unable to let go of the day.  For me, sketching alleviates those feelings and helps me get better rest.
Abstract line drawing by Courtney Hatcher. Ink in blues and yellow in swirling colors and organic shapes.
Organic Shape Study by Courtney Hatcher, Artist. Ink on Paper.

To Sum It Up...

Activating your creativity is one of the most important things you can do.  Working on your art and creating beneficial habits is always a good thing.  Sketching is a tool that you can use to live a more creative life.  

Look for Part Two of my 'Importance of Sketching' series coming in the beginning of May 2019!

My Challenge to You:

Courtney Hatcher blog, Activate your creativity, organic shape ink drawing including a quote from cghatcher.
I challenge you to make sketching a part of your daily routine.  Try it for a week and see how it can change your day!  Let me know how it works for you.  Remember, you don't have to complete a sketch or a drawing everyday.  You can, but it's not necessary to benefit from the exercise.  You may end up working on the same one all week, ten minutes one day, thirty minutes the next.  The important thing is to do a little bit everyday!
See more of my drawings and sketches: Drawings
©Courtney Hatcher All Rights Reserved.  The use of any image from this site is prohibited unless prior written permission from the artist is obtained.
​

General Disclaimer
:  All information provided on this website is intended for informational and entertainment use only.  Information contained in this website is not intended to be advice.  By accessing, viewing or using this website you are agreeing that I am not liable or responsible for your business or personal results, or any other results that you may have as a result of information presented to you through this website.  You accept and agree that you are solely responsible for your results and that I provide no express or implied guarantees or promises to you.
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Me, Myself & Art: Anatomy of a Painting, "Spiral"

1/15/2019

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by Courtney Hatcher
Blog by Courtney Hatcher. Me, Myself & Art. Anatomy of a Painting, Spiral. Learn how the artist takes an emotion and turns it into the concept of her painting.

Anatomy of a Painting

Every painting has its own story.

As an artist, where I'm at emotionally drives the subject matter of my art.

Every aspect of my artwork is a choice based on what I feel best represents my emotional journey.  It is a choice based on what I believe will encourage an emotional response from my viewer.

Technical Breakdown of the Painting

The technical statics behind the acrylic painting,
The technical painting statics of "Spiral", by Courtney Hatcher.
The technical aspects of a painting are the first thing the viewer sees.

Technique is the first impression.

In an abstract painting the technical concerns are just as important as the concept behind the piece.

Painting Stats:

  • Size:  11"x14"
  • Acrylic on Canvas
  • Painted with Natural Bristle Brushes
  • Figurative
  • Expressive gesture creates movement.  Building some areas of the canvas up with paint while allowing the white of the canvas to show through in others.
  • The color palette consists of mostly cool tones.  Turquoise and purples, with accents of lime/yellow-green.

Concept Behind the Painting

Viewers Choice:

I want you to take a second and really look at the piece.
*Note:  The watermark of my name does not appear on the actual painting.
What do you see?  What do you feel?  What does the imagery remind you of?  What memories are stirred?  Ask yourself how the image affects you.  

What imagery do you see in the paint?  Do you see a figure?  Or multiple figures?  Male or female?  Androgynous?

Maybe it's not a figure at all.  Maybe it's a mountain range or a sunset on the beach.  Maybe it's a field of flowers viewed from far above.

This is my favorite thing about abstract art.  Every viewer sees something different.  Every individual has a unique experience that cannot be replicated.

Now that you've established what the painting means to you I want to tell you what it means to me.

Artists Thoughts:

I titled this piece "Spiral".  The title is the minimalist label that I use to represent the theme behind the emotion I was feeling when I created the piece.

In my work every emotion is double sided.  On one side it is positive.  On the other side, negative.  When conceptualizing, if I'm feeling the negative aspects of an emotion I analyze how that emotion could be flipped and transformed into its opposite.  I begin with one and let myself gradually flow into the other.  
When I created "Spiral" I was on the negative side of the emotion.

The title is exactly what I was doing.  I was spiraling.

​At that time I felt like my emotions were out of control and I was falling down a never ending corkscrew of darkness.  I was overwhelmed with how these feelings were accelerating and spreading in a seemingly endless pattern.


Abstract painting by Courtney Hatcher,
A close up to highlight the texture and brush strokes.
Now, when I paint I transfer all of that onto the canvas.  As I progress through the piece I can start to feel relief and see how to turn those negative thoughts into positive thoughts.

The continuous momentum I was feeling doesn't have to be downward motion.  I can decide to pull myself up instead.  The spiraling events in my life can be an opportunity.  I can choose to embrace the negative or I can use those experiences to grow and evolve.

It's all about my perspective.  How I choose to view my situation.  Is the figure in the painting falling?  Or is she pushing herself up?

Painting, for me, is therapeutic and meditative.

I attack an emotion from every angle, until I find balance.  When I feel balanced I know the painting is finished.

What did you see, feel, think, when you first saw my painting?  Share your perspective!  I would love to know your experience with my work.
Courtney Hatcher, Abstract Artist.  In this blog post, Anatomy of a Paining, she explains her conceptual process. Her blog, Me, Myself & Art follows her journey as an artist.
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Me, Myself & Art: The Top 4 Reasons I Use Acrylic Paint

12/30/2018

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The Top 4 Reasons I Use Acrylic Paint

by Courtney Hatcher
Courtney Hatcher's blog: Me, Myself & Art.  The Top 4 Reasons I Use Acrylic Paint explains the benefits of acrylics and how they influence my abstract paintings.
As an artist the materials you choose to use will be one of the most important choices that you make when creating a piece of art.

The materials you use to bring your vision to life will determine how your creation will actually look.

The choices in this modern age are endless!  You are only limited by your own imagination.  Sometimes there is such a wide range of materials to pick from that it becomes difficult to make up your mind!  Do I paint on Canvas?  Board?  Paper?  Fabric?  Should I use brushes?  Palette knives?  My fingers?  Should I even paint at all?  Maybe I should draw.  With pencil?  Ink?  Chalk?  Should I work in black and white or color? 

​There are unlimited choices.  But the materials you choose will ultimately affect the final outcome of your work.

Every artist has their own preferences, materials that flow better for you than others.  I like to experiment with whatever materials I can get my hands on!  But my go to material, the one I enjoy working with the most is Acrylic Paint.  It works for me.  Me and Acrylic Paint, we vibe.

Clearly, I could ramble on and on about art supplies forever.  But, I won't!  I'll jump right to my point.

The Top 4 Reasons I Use Acrylic Paint...

1)  Price:  Cheaper That Oils
2)  Quick Dry Time
3)  Versatile Options
4)  Clean Up:  Easy & Environmentally Friendly(ish)

1)  Price:  Cheaper Than Oils

  • Quality vs Quantity
As an artist I want to use the highest quality paint that I can, but yikes! it can get expensive.  A little 2 oz. tube of artist quality paint can cost between 10 and 20+ dollars!  I know, crazy.  Sometimes I have heart palpitations just thinking about it.  But what's an artist to do?

Personally, I like to use either Liquitex or Golden brand acrylics.  I like the high quality of the paint and they are easy to find at art supply stores and online, especially where I live.  For example, my favorite purple color, Dioxazine Purple, is roughly $12 a tube for acrylic but $17 a tube for oil.  And let me tell you, five dollars a tube adds up!  Since I do not believe that oil paints are of a higher quality than acrylics I can't justify paying more when the finished product is of equal caliber. 

In any given painting I use at least a dozen different tubes of paint.  While I don't use up the whole tube for each painting that still gets price-y when it comes time to replace all those colors.

In a perfect world price wouldn't be a consideration when it came to creating art.  But the world we live in  happens to be a beautifully imperfect place.  Which is a good thing, too, otherwise what inspiration would I find to make art about?  Anyway...
​

  • Don't Break the Budget!
I keep myself on a super tight budget!

I wish I could spend and spend and spend on art supplies, that's the dream.  Unfortunately, the everyday little things get in the way.  

Like bills!

I have to spread my budget amongst the bills, my cat, groceries, gas for my car, and oh so many other living expenses.

So anywhere I can save, without sacrificing quality, I do.
Picture
  • I Have to Buy What Else?!
On top of acrylic paint being inherently less expensive than oils you don't have to add a bunch of chemical type liquids to them.  Acrylic's good to go!

So not only am I saving on the paint itself, I'm saving by not having to buy mineral spirits, varnish, linseed oil, turpentine or any other additive.  Don't get me wrong, oil paint can produce some truly spectacular images.  Especially if a focus of your art is blending.  I'm just happy that my aesthetic and the style I have developed is best supported by acrylics.

Price Is Important!

While I would never sacrifice quality in the materials that I use or the art that I create, price is definitely something that has to be considered when purchasing materials.

2)  Quick Dry Time

  • Don't Nobody Got Time For That
Acrylic paints dry quickly!  Turbo speed!

My art is a lot about layers, conceptually and literally.  I layer color after color until I create an image that has depth.  So many layers you feel like you could get lost in the image.  

I like to work quickly, I don't want to wait for paint to dry before I can add another layer.  The sooner one layer dries the sooner I can begin on the next layer of my artwork.

Other painting media, oils in particular, can take hours, days, even weeks to fully dry.  Whereas acrylics take, at most, an hour or so.  I know it works for some artists, but I can't wait days to put the next layer into my piece.  If I wait too long my creative brain has already moved on to the next project.
​
  • Just Go With It
One of the best aspects of working with a quick dry time is that it keeps me spontaneous.

As a person I like to be in control, to think things through to the point where I've analyzed every possible outcome.  Twice.

I do that to a certain extent in my art, through brainstorming and conceptual research.

However, when it comes time to actually put the paint on the canvas all that's over.  There's no more time for analyzing. 

If I don't work fast the layer will dry, or worse, the paint on my palette will dry before I have a chance to get my vision out of my head.  
​
Picture
The materials keep me focused on the piece that's in front of me.  Allows the colors and textures, in the moment, to influence the piece.

Working quickly I don't have the time to over-think my choices or to second guess myself.  I can allow myself to be spontaneous and to make split-second decisions right then and there.  I exercise my ability to improvise and problem solve in order to get the layer finished before the paint dries.  

It's liberating and completely therapeutic.

In between layers I can take the time to step back and contemplate the theme and the ideas I meticulously brainstormed before I started painting.  I find areas that don't work, that will need more attention with the next layer of paint.

More often than not I discover that I've pushed my theme further than I ever would have if I tried too hard to control every brushstroke.  By allowing myself to be spontaneous I tap into wells of creativity inside of myself that make me who I am as an artist.

I can find spontaneity with other materials.  I've had fabulous outcomes with pastels, mixed media collage, colored pencils, ink and oil paints.  But nothing is quite like acrylic paint.  I like the acrylics because they don't give me a choice.

They insist on living in the moment.
​
  • Bubble Wrap that Art Baby
A quick dry time makes storage and clean up so much easier.

I don't have a traditional studio right now.  I dedicate a portion of a room to my art.  But I still share the majority of my space with other people and pets.  The almost non-existent wait for acrylics to dry means that I don't have to leave wet paintings out for days (or weeks!) where a person, or a pet, can schmear it everywhere.

All I have to do is wait an hour(ish), so by the time I clean up the rest of my painting space, I can bubble wrap the piece and put it safely into storage.

In the past I thought I would try my hand at oil paints.  Using them was a pleasant experience and I love the pieces that came out of that experimentation.

However, a 9"x12" piece took over a week to dry to the touch.  I was working out of my living room at the time and being used to acrylics drying lickety-split I left the piece unsupervised to dry and my cat stepped in it and tracked it everywhere!

Luckily, by the time I found all her little footprints the paint was still wet enough to clean.  So it worked out.  But living with other people and animals makes it difficult for me to leave a wet painting out to dry.  Not to mention every time anyone walked by it they had bright red paint permanently attached to their clothes!  I still hear about that!  ​One of my favorite sweaters officially became a painting sweater after my foray into oils.

3)  Versatile Options

Acrylic paint is incredibly versatile.

It doesn't require you to add anything to it to get beautiful imagery.  Squeeze it right out of the tube and slap it on the canvas!  If that's not your style there are tons of other options.

  • Is There Anything Water Can't Do?
The easiest thing to add to acrylic paint to change up the texture, or the look in general, is water.  Just plain ol' H2O.  So simple!

Just by adding water to the paint you can create thin washes of color.  You can even extend the drying time a tad, if you need to.  By adding water to acrylic paint you can essentially create watercolors.
​
  • So Many Techniques, So Little Time
There are tons of products out there that you can buy to mix with acrylic paints to create different textures or techniques. 

Mediums can extend the life of the paint and make each tube go much further.  You can get them in matte or glossy finishes.  *side note:  Acrylic mediums are a great substitute for glue.  They dry clear and the hold is super strong.  A gel medium can give your painting a thicker texture.  A liquid medium can be used to thin out the paint to make blending smoother and to keep the paint wet for a longer period of time.

Acrylic mediums can also be used to create acrylic lifts, which are great for collage and mixed media.  Basically, you paint the medium on top of a printed photograph and when it dries you soak it in water and then wipe the paper off the acrylic.  The image will have adhered to the acrylic and you now have a transparent image that can be added to your artwork.

There are so many products out there that work with acrylic paint it could take an artist years to experiment with all of them.

4) Clean Up:  Easy & Environmentally Friendly(ish)

With acrylic paint clean up is a breeze.
  • Avoid the Toxic!
When you work with acrylic paint you aren't working with harsh chemicals, like turpentine, to clean your brushes or palettes. 

(I mean, I still wouldn't recommend eating it or anything!!)  

​
So you don't have to worry about having a special biohazard waste bucket that has to be carefully disposed of.  You also won't have to worry about any noxious fumes from all those chemicals floating around in the air.
  • Water to the Rescue!
All you need is water and towels.  Simple as that.
​
Picture
People say you can wash acrylic paint down the drain, but remember we're trying to be environmentally friendly.  So avoid dumping/rinsing wet acrylic paint directly into the drain.  A little is unavoidable.  That's why I say friendly(ish).  But for the most part acrylics can be disposed of without using the sink.

When acrylic paint dries it is safe to throw away.  Another reason quick dry time is a plus!

I'm no scientist, so I'm not gonna get too technical here, but it is my understanding that when acrylics dry the synthetic polymer that they are made from solidifies and encases any of the bad chemicals (like cadmium) and helps keep them from seeping into the groundwater.  Which is why you should wait for the paint to dry before throwing it away.

Once the little bit (if any) of left over paint on your palette has dried you can peel it right off and toss it.  Or you can use those acrylic peelings in a mixed media project.  I like to keep an extra canvas on hand to use any left over paint so I'm not wasting that liquid gold!

If you work with brushes and have a water cup on hand for cleaning during a painting session you can avoid putting that down the drain as well.  Just set it aside and let it evaporate (cover it partially and put it somewhere safe if you're afraid of a pet or a child drinking it!).  That way the water will evaporate leaving only the paint residue behind to be safely thrown away.  If you can't wait for it to evaporate that way, you can soak it up with a towel (or paper towels) and put the towel somewhere safe where it can dry and then be thrown away.

Brushes are easy clean up too.  All you need is soap and water.  Use your water cup to get most of the paint out of the brush, then wipe it as best you can on your towel.  That way you are putting as little paint as possible into the drain.  Work a little soap into the bristles and rinse until clean.

Simple clean up that, as far as art supplies go, is pretty easy on the environment. 

There you have it, The Top 4 Reasons I Use Acrylic Paint

Acrylic is the media that suits me the best.  It satisfies my budget, simplifies my time with quick clean up, meshes well with my personal work habits and tests my spontaneity.

With art every choice is subjective.  Every artist is different.  It's a limitless world of possibilities.  To each their own.  What media and materials do you make your own?
Tips and Tricks of Acrylic Paint. Why I use acrylics, Courtney Hatcher Artist.  My Top 4 Reasons to Use Acrylic Paint.
The Top 4 Reasons I Use Acrylic Paint by Courtney Hatcher
General Disclaimer:  All information provided on this website is intended for informational and entertainment use only.  Information contained in this website is not intended to be advice.  By accessing, viewing or using this website you are agreeing that I am not liable or responsible for your business or personal results, or any other results that you may have as a result of information presented to you through this website.  You accept and agree that you are solely responsible for your results and that I provide no express or implied guarantees or promises to you.  
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Me, Myself & Art: My Journey to Becoming an Artist

12/11/2018

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Courtney Hatcher, Artist. Blog, Me, Myself & Art. In this post she describes how she came to the decision to make art her primary career.
Me and Art have a long history.  We've had our ups and downs.  But I wouldn't trade it for anything else in the world.

I was destined to work in the Arts.
Everyone in my family that I know of, or have heard about, is an artist.  Even if that's not how they made a living.  Musicians, painters, sculptors, writers, textile artists, martial arts, wood working, dance.  You name it, someone in my family does it.

​Some of my best childhood memories are coloring and crafting with my mom and my sister.  Doing school plays and dancing my little heart out in dance recitals.
In retrospect, a career in the Arts should have been obvious.  But nope!  I didn't accept my artsy calling until my second year of college.  
Like most young people I had no idea (or maybe too many ideas) about what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.  I jumped from one thing to another like a kid who just downed their first cup of full caff coffee!  One minute I was gonna be a Librarian, the next a Museum Curator.  At one point I even considered Forensic Anthropology.

The longer I was in school the more pressure I felt to pick a major.


It seemed impossible!

I enjoyed everything!  (Except Math.  Bleh!  Made it easier to rule out Forensic Anthropology, though).  
Art quote by Leonardo da vinci, Me, Myself & Art, C. G. Hatcher
Art quote by Leonardo da Vinci, cghatcher.com
​Sitting in a drawing class one day it just sorta hit me.  What's the one subject that would allow me to incorporate every other subject all at once?  ART!

It was a full on head slapper moment.  Duh, Courtney!  I wanted to learn a bit about everything and art was the perfect solution.  Literature, History, Psychology, Science and yes, even a little Math. 

I was able to take the concepts and ideas I learned in all of those other subjects and incorporate them into my art.

The more I learned the stronger and more fulfilling my art became.  (Which is still true, by the way).

Fast forward to my senior year at UM-Flint.  The year of electives!  I took an Intro to Theatre class and absolutely fell in love.

It was a side of art that I hadn't experienced since I was a kid.  I had forgotten how much I enjoyed it.

The professor was very encouraging, she even walked me right up to the call board and signed me up to audition and work backstage.

​​Needless to say, by the end of the semester I was dual majoring in Fine Arts and Theatre.

Theatre gave me a whole new perspective.  It taught me about collaboration.  Showed me a new side of human psychology.  A different way to experience empathy.  It taught me to live in the moment, be fearless and to embrace improvisation. 

Everything I learned gave me more confidence and helped me find my voice as an artist.

After graduation I struggled to find a 9 to 5 that was fulfilling.  I started to realize that working corporate/retail type jobs was draining my creativity and enthusiasm.  
An inspirational quote by Buddha, Me, Myself & Art by Courtney Hatcher
Inspirational quote by Buddha. cghatcher.com
It wasn't until recently that I decided to do something about it.

I took the leap, for better or worse, and decided to devote myself to art full time.

I knew I would never truly be happy if I didn't do what was in my heart.  So, I quit my day job and committed to following my dreams, wherever they may take me.

Scariest.  Thing.  Ever.

But I would do it again in a heartbeat.  I'm grateful for all of the support and encouragement I have received from family and friends.  And I'm excited to continue sharing my journey with all of you!
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    Courtney Hatcher is an abstract artist from Flint, Michigan.

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    ©Courtney Hatcher All Rights Reserved. 
    General Disclaimer:  All information provided on this website is intended for informational and entertainment use only.  Information contained in this website is not intended to be advice.  By accessing, viewing or using this website you are agreeing that I am not liable or responsible for your business or personal results, or any other results that you may have as a result of information presented to you through this website.  You accept and agree that you are solely responsible for your results and that I provide no express or implied guarantees or promises to you.  This blog is about the process and inspiration of the artist, Courtney Hatcher.  I reserve the right to change the focus or content of this blog at any time.
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