Paint On! What it Takes to be a Speed Painter

Painting is hard enough. But speed painting is a whole different animal. Whether self-imposed or implemented by someone else, speed painters often work under pressure with a time limit bearing down on them. Once time’s up, whatever is on the canvass is considered the painting itself.

Conventional speed painting requires vision, mastery of the art, quick thinking and more often than not, mastery of digital tools. Many speed painters prefer to use digital tools over traditional paint so as to skip the time it takes for the painting to dry.

Image source: Deviantart.com

Speed painting is a great way for budding graphic artists to practice with digital programs. It hones their skills making them faster and their work, cleaner. Many speed painters choose concept art over traditional art as models for speed painting.

Speed painting is a contest of skill more than anything else. Artists are trained not to overthink as they usually do. Speed painting requires much subjectivity and, the ability to interpret a subject and lay said subject out under time pressure.

Image source: Dailymotion.com

Today, speed painters have risen to the challenges of pop culture and have created innovative ways to express their art. Many artists have now gone beyond their day-to-day jobs and joined televised talent competitions, slowly but surely making speed painting a household name.

Robert Channing is a world-renowned entertainer and performance speed painter. He captivates audiences all over the world with his live performances. His repertoire includes ESP, outrageous stunts, and speed and glitter painting. Learn more about him and speed painting by visiting this website.

A View Of Hope: Art Therapy For Cancer Patients

People who have been going through physical pain and chronic sickness can find comfort and peace of mind through art. Art can be a form of support for those going through challenging times. Through visual art materials, usually approved or supervised by trained art therapists, people can create something with personal significance. Art therapy can help release different feelings, while letting the artist understand and see new perspectives on their situation. 

Image source: intuitivecreativity.typepad.com

Art therapy is not just about making a beautiful piece worthy of a spot in a local or international museum. People who want to experience art therapy do not need formal training in the arts to be able to paint or draw their feelings.

Patients diagnosed with cancer benefit from this kind of therapy. Art can be used as an avenue to expose their confusion or thoughts about their situation. This is also beneficial for individuals who are not into talking therapies. Art therapists are postgraduate degree holders and can be found in nursing homes, hospitals, homes, and other settings. They work closely with doctors, nurses, and other professionals who deal with the patient. 

Image source: intuitivecreativity.typepad.com

While there are limited scientific findings about the advantages of art therapy, a lot of professionals believe it can: 

• Encourage the expression of emotions while improving relationships,  
• Help decrease feelings of discomfort or pain, 
• Regain confidence, 
• Help those with chronic illnesses adjust to their changing bodies, 
• Control anxiety, low self-esteem, or depression. 

Robert Channing is an entertainer and motivational speaker. He has done shows as a speed painter in the different parts of the U.S. Learn more about his professional work by visiting this page.