HOW TO LOOSEN UP YOUR ART

My TOP TIPS for loosening up your art!!! I break it down into 3 areas: the approach, practical tips, and how to use resources/sources of inspiration. I share it ALL!
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Artist's mentioned in this video:
MARY FREY:
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CHARLES REID:
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PEGGI KROLL ROBERTS:
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EMILY POWELL:
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MUSIC:
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[@souffle53]

I am going to have to watch this over and over. I am a senior citizen and all my life I have wanted to create and in my mind the voice tells me "it's not going to be any good and you're just going to waste paper. You won't want anyone to see it so don't even try" Thank you for saying all this out loud.

[@sandihester]

You could say that or... You could say “who cares how it turned out - I’m going to have so much fun!!!” I say GO FOR IT!!

[@sandraj4602]

Note to myself: I must NOT watch your videos right before I have to go to bed... I'm SO inspired and want to start to try all of your advice. But I really need to sleep now (it's almost midnight here in Germany)... I think I calm myself down by telling me I will watch it again tomorrow...😇 Thank you so much for sharing your art and your lovely kind of talking about it and the process and everything... it always lifts me up ❤

[@sandihester]

Sandra this cracked me up!!!! It's so much fun to fall asleep thinking about the art you're going to do tomorrow though - so hopefully that will be the case and not insomnia. Thank you for such a fun comment!

[@sandraj4602]

@@sandihester ❤

[@MariaAlves-xz6lb]

This is me right now XD

[@sandihester]

@@MariaAlves-xz6lb 😂🤗

[@joannemihelcic5520]

Ditto :-)

[@staciemartinez]

The timing of this video is totally wild because I chose the word "loose" to be my word for 2021. I struggle with perfectionism, and frankly it just keeps me on the sidelines - in nearly every aspect of my life. I don't want to hold on so tightly and try to control everything. Thanks for sharing your ideas and experience!!

[@sandihester]

That is crazy Stacie! I hope this year you can enjoy making more art as you practice just enjoying it!

[@Janartable]

Watching again…because we need constant reminding until it becomes internalized!

[@sandihester]

🤗🥰

[@valdaluna]

omg I feel so much lighter! I was feeling so stuck lately, even felt like I'm going backward and contemplating to stop painting. Now i'm realising how much pressure I put on myself (because of covid this is now my main income and it's not much) But honestly, I've stop having fun, I'm so stressed out before starting a painting! My head goes straight to "This one has to sell", "this one is gonna save me!" 😅 I see it now so clearly! It was not only killing my painting, but mostly killed all my creativity and inspiration. I can't thank you enough for that video ❤

[@sandihester]

Ohhhh Valerie!!! I’m so glad this was that helpful!!! THANK YOU for taking time to write and share how helpful this one! Can I also just say - the way we “talk to ourselves “ is practice - it will take practice for you to push back against the patterned way you’ve been thinking. So have patience. Schedule in some “no pressure “ painting times and see how you do with those.

[@missteelee174]

This is my current goal. I love being an artist, but creating art stresses me out and overwhelms me to the point where I don't want to create. I took a semester off of art school and I am focusing on learning how to love creating art again.

[@justabroadabroad]

Amazing. I just rented a top floor finished attic apartment and decided to use the tiny side for my living room and sleep on my futon living room sofa just to dedicate the large, airy side to a full art studio. I do leatherwork, drawing, painting, carving, etc and it's been years since I've had a space to set up and walk into and just get inspired! I"m doing that now and your video is so on time because my struggle is always, always, getting looser. Thank you so much!!! Valuable, usable information.

[@sandihester]

That’s awesome Mary!

[@kelligrotle407]

Sandi, I will try to keep this short- God Bless you, my friend! I'm 57, a self-taught artist- living in the Pacific NW, w/beaches, whales, landscapes, etc. I am a perfectionist- everything I make, is seen by family members, (do to small house with limited work space for me in the dining room), so nothing is hidden, and they like to critique my work- with good ideas,-but in the self talk pressure of "Will I be able to SELL this?" so after watching your video, NOW I feel like I can ":BREATHE, & instead of sitting, stand up to paint (I am seeing a chiropractor for my left shoulder, and spine issues, and the minute I put my work up on the easel, that I had laying on the floor under the table with my plants!....I held the brush out in front of me, holding it as you did.... the stress and pain i was feeling in arm was decreased and my whole JOY of painting came back to me. My neck from looking down all the time is better. I LOVE your artwork, All I can say is that I am an avid fan of yours now- and I KNOW the Lord brought me here today! My whole afternoon turned around for the good today! Thank you so Very MUCH! I Love your dog, too! Kelli

[@sandihester]

Ohhhh wow Kelli!!!! I’m so glad to hear that!!!!! I deal with shoulder and neck issues too - most all of us do. I do strengthening exercises to help my muscles not over compensate and lots of stretching. So glad this video was so helpful!

[@deannak1841]

Many don't understand, (Like my husband), they think great paintings are just boom done and every painting a "real artist" makes is a masterpiece, but really it's the 80/20 rule. I personally feel I must create a masterpiece for validation- I want to pursue art, I want my husband to see my painting and think 'yeah, you should go for it'. I've won competitions and been in exhibitions but never got that validation from him. So I needed to ask myself why do I paint? Is it because you just have to, to enter flow state or because you wanna sell a painting? And if it's because you enjoy it than you have to learn to just move on- cause you'll get to make another! Stop working on that one you hate and move on, when it's dry paint another over it. Successful artist ENJOY the process.

[@KittehNow]

This video opened doors for me that I didn't even know existed. Thank you. I'm having a BALL like never before.

[@sandihester]

Eeeeee that makes me so happy to hear!

[@dawnitalutz1953]

I'm just starting learning loose and abstract. I feel like I'm learning a new language. Thanks for your videos. I just found them and am so thankful for them and enjoy your southern charm.

[@sandihester]

You’re right - it is a new language! I feel like I’m still learning too!

[@lenaacombe777]

I am grateful for the time you've taken to create this compassionately cohesive & comprehensive guide. I used to draw and paint and create with zest and joy, but a painful illness filled me with an even more disabling fear of failure. I'm not physically capable of the realism that I used to create...I allowed this inability to hold my body in the ways that I'm used to to prevent me from even trying anymore. It's been hard to forgive the lack of control that I have been blaming on my shakey hands & arms. I guess what I'm rambling towards is this: Thank you for showing me how to relinquish my desire for control so that I can also let go of this last bit of anger that I've been harboring against my own body.

[@sandihester]

Ohhhhh Lena, I'm so sorry to hear you're dealing with a painful illness - UGH!!!! That can be so draining! Could I encourage you to use the shakiness to your advantage. Some of us that like to paint loose look for ways to stay loose - I know I'm not the only one who likes to paint in the car for it's shakiness. Monet painted some of his best work when he was losing his eye sight. I would encourage you to use these things to your advantage and work most on just enjoying again. Perfectionism can kill joy like nothing else. Pick up some old tools (pencils, marker, etc) and just get in there and do the thing.

[@lisamariaartista]

Thank you!! I was taught to put a small folding table with my pallette on it in front of my easel to keep me from getting too close. Also, tape a brush onto the end of a stick, extend your arm all the way & draw.

[@ntakovacj3644]

You are so generous! What I love best is that you are able to say it and mean it -- that it MATTERS to just do it. You are an artist with no "side" no "pose" because you are richly in the middle of your work and so your joy and focus spill over. There's enough for all!

[@sandihester]

Thank you - I appreciate that!

[@TheRecoveringCreative]

I agree with you so much! I finished two large scale pieces for the first time in twenty years or more BECAUSE I was having fun and enjoying it🤗

[@sandihester]

Great job!!!! I wish we all had more fun in our process!

[@gretchensharples7071]

Excellent excellent excellent! I will be watching this over and over! Thank youuuu!

[@sandihester]

Awe - so glad to hear that Gretchen!

[@annecanright4918]

Thank you thank you thank you! I am so happy to see a really experienced artist talking about how art is really made. I binge watch your videos. I am a full time artist and an old Crone and I need the message as much as anyone...

[@sandihester]

I hope it was helpful and thank you for watching ❤️

[@Suzi77]

OMG, this is an amazing video. You asked for what was helpful, are you kidding. It was all helpful. Loved it all it will be saved in my library as a resource. Wonderful. I laughed out loud when you talked about your niece and her asking you about your mistakes. I did a wonky sketch of my grandsons and showed my son and I could hear a pause . Ahh...he didn’t understand and that’s ok. Some of my best paintings are when I am not planning and I start with using my favorite colors. I could go on....thank you so much for sharing your art and knowledge. Words can’t express how much I appreciate you. Looking forward to another year of art with Sandi....ha ha. ❤️🙋🏼‍♀️🌻

[@sandihester]

Suzi, Oh my - I'm thrilled this was helpful - whooohoooo! Thank you for taking time to let me know - it really gives me fuel - or just confidence to know I'm on the right track with what to share. Loved "looking forward to more art with Sandi" :)

[@AliciaCotoruelo]

SANDI THE BEST.

[@onesweetlife2469]

I have drifted away from painting, the expectations, perfectionism, tightness, and lack of joy! Every piece had to be a masterpiece. WHAT!!!??? You have given me hope and the courage to try again. I want to PLAY this time with looseness, color, mark making and messing up. Using colors that aren’t in the subject? So fun!! Looking forward to a morning walk tomorrow with my marker and small sketchbook! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

[@sandihester]

Awe - thank you so much for sharing this!!! I hope you have a great time sketching on your walk - just remember - it's not meant to be good (I'm still reminding my self each morning when I walk).

[@petalparker5]

To end loose you need to start loose - excellent tip. Thx. I find not wearing my glasses until I reach the highlight stage helps me stay loose, keeps everything slightly out of focus so I can't focus on fine detail too early.

[@sandihester]

good tip!!!!

[@stephanie.kilgast]

I love your personality and approach. Certainly will loosen up in my sketchbooks more with your tips. While my work is the opposite of yours (very detailed and controlled) I do agree on the "no hope, no expectations"' when working. If you mess up, just move on. Desacralizing art is the best way to do art day in day out and still having fun along the way. :)

[@sandihester]

I’m glad you enjoyed the video even though your style is different. I kind of with I hadn’t titled it about painting loose because I think it’s more about the way you think about your art more than anything

[@lindalori52]

In one of your videos, you showed us these fabulous hand made...sketchbooks. It was like they were old books converted. I would love to get one. Thank you for the best channel ever... kindred spirits.

[@JenniferR459]

Painting the value instead of the colour you see is one of the most inspiring pieces of advice I have come across in a long time! Thank you for sharing this video; I've just enjoyed a relaxed art session by my window using coloured pencils (with a loose grip 😉) after watching it!

[@MartieSchmidt]

I resonate so much with you and found you when I needed this most. Never been able to fully let go...your advice is priceless and I will practice and enjoy as suggested. Big hugs from South Africa 🫶💃🏻

[@StephenCorn-ot8rd]

OMG! I have for years tried to become more loose and what a help this has been. I am doing the 100 day project and trying to paint loose abstracted florals. Now I will try not to worry about them not being any good but just to experiment using your ideas. Thanks so much.

[@bonnieriffle9352]

I loved every second of this video. I got sooooo much out of this, that I can't wait to paint tomorrow!! It's almost midnight now and I must go to bed!! You covered so much and so many important and enlightening subjects that I needed to hear!!!! Thank you for putting this out there!!!

[@lesley3187]

Going to watch this over and over to remind myself, such helpful advice! I struggle with the fear of messing up when I feel that the painting is close to being finished because I'm scared of messing it up after all that work

[@maddietighe5881]

Sandi - This video is awesome and I will watch a few times. What really helped is that you mentioned that our negative inner voices can tighten ourselves up and wreck the fun. I'm glad to learn that I'm not the only one who goes through this and hope others can learn to catch themselves. I laughed out loud during your story about showing your niece your "mistakes". I also laughed when I did a double take when I saw you painting with a stick! Very fun and informative and I will try some of these ideas.

[@bijaseed]

I wish I could like this video again, each time I watch it. When I first saw it, it really ignited something in me, and I really let go. For about a month, I was pumped to paint and painted daily. Life, serious life happened, as it does, and I got tight and stressed again. I was thinking back to that month and the paintings I did, and what was going on then, and remembered this video! Thank you for sharing this!!!!!!

[@sandihester]

Im glad it’s been a helpful video!

[@peggikrollroberts6341]

Sandi! I so appreciate the shout out!! Especially from such an accomplished artist/teacher as yourself! Xoxo Peggi

[@sandihester]

Peggi, you are SO sweet! Thank you for watching!!

[@kr2112]

That was seriously great. This is the second time I’ve watched it. I don’t know why after years of painting professionally I’ve had to come back around and humble myself to really having a beginner’s mind, but I’m grateful that when I really needed the help I stumbled upon you. Thank you so much. You’ve really helped me break through a terrible terrible block.

[@sandihester]

Awe Kimberly I’m so glad this was helpful!!!! Thank you for letting me know!

[@actuallyfrankie]

I love your videos! I've been trying to figure out what brings me joy when I paint, and your loose landscape work resonates so much with me that I keep watching just to see your painting process. Thank you for sharing your joy with us. I do wish you did online workshops because, as I live all the way in Asia, learning from you in person is out of reach for me.

[@sandihester]

This week’s video is on landscapes so I’m sure you’ll enjoy that. I’m doing an online workshop this spring but it’s full but I’ll be doing more this year so keep an eye out for them

[@actuallyfrankie]

@@sandihester I will! Followed you on Instagram so I could catch the next one!!

[@chrismeister2427]

SO helpful!!! Thank you! And your enjoyable personality jumps off the page to infect and inspire me!!

[@NewTica]

This is the best video/advice I have come across in years for loosening up myself and my art. Thank you so much, Sandi!

[@sandihester]

Oh wow- what a great compliment!! THANK YOU! I really appreciate it!!

[@katpaints]

Seriously! I loved it all, from the peeking in through the windows (my mother used to have my dad take her for rides in her favorite neighborhoods at dusk, because it was after lights went on, but before drapes were closed...) to all of the sharing. After painting by patterns, I wanted watercolors and Reid's Painting what you want to see was my first real art book! Eye opening! I love how you bring out the joy in others... and I am warming up to a warm red. I was tired of it in the years of decorative painting, but I am SO attracted to your warm glow in the room with those cupboard doors! I do do red. I picked out barn red for our house 40 years ago and the garage has some dark green trim. I just have not done much red, except for the headboard in the guest room. Color IS everywhere in the house though. Bless you, Sandi! Keep up the cheer!

[@sandihester]

Thanks so much Kathleen!!!! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! And yes to color 🙌

[@dianemartin6077]

Thanks so much Sandi! You inspire me. Love your approach love your art. Enjoy your videos so much. I appreciate you ❤

[@WandFBaptism]

I'm so glad to find your channel and this video in particular spoke to my current issue. I just started painting last month as a way to loosen up do to my Parkinson's and boy am I having 😊. Thank you for your teaching, Francesca H

[@sandihester]

Oh that’s awesome! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the channel!

[@gathercreatelivewithleslie8340]

Listening to you talk about Mary and I had so many, yep that is me moments! I won't like it and then when I look at it weeks later I'm like, wow I really do like it. I don't understand why I don't see it either, lol. As you're talking I'm getting more and more excited to just get going on projects. I bought the biggest canvas I have ever purchased today. I have never worked large and the anticipation is almost overwhelming. One of my issues is I don't practice, I just start right in, I need to practice and I know that now. Trust the process. Use a sketch book!!! Love the bird page, may do a smaller painting similar to that. YES!!! Very helpful, every single part. Will be watching this like 1000 times.

[@mariaalejacardozoyahenglish]

The way you explained it all made it so clear to me, it made sense that its important to enjoy and play, I have noticed that my drawings are tight and now I understand that I have to begin with a mindset in which I am relaxed and playful, if I am not concious about that its difficult to achieve a loose artwork. Thanks for sharing so many tips, much appreciated.

[@sandihester]

I’m so glad it came across clear!! Hope it helps!

[@smilesoftexas]

Great life lessons in this one. I needed to hear this...over and over...and over...”Trust the Process”. I’ve been debating what I want to focus on with my art journey this year... until now. I want to be less precious with my art, to be bold in my exploration and less fearful of “failure”. you’re inspiring. thank you.

[@sandihester]

Wonderful! That's so awesome! I have to preach this to myself ALL the time - it does get easier over time though - you create new 'muscles' and the old 'muscles' of negativity get weaker!

[@annevai]

I think this is my favorite video of yours so far! Organized so well and useful non intimidating tips. Ways to make great changes in your art and process and ENJOY it more. I feel like we are surrounded by so much hyper realistic "tight" art on social media, or art that seems so perfect. We don't see all the behind the scenes crappy art. Not that there's anything wrong with that but at least for me, i sometimes feel like that is portrayed to be "better" art. But it's not for every one! And we never get to see or hear about the process. I'm learning to enjoy the process and that even it it turns out not the way intended, if I painted that day AT ALL with a positive attitude, it's a win. I know these videos take a ton of time and energy but I want you to I'm getting a ton of great info out them and I can't wait to start painting after I watch! ❤️

[@sandihester]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate that!

[@lilycamilleart]

My sould needed this this week. Thank you Sandi! I loved the message about mindset. If you ever make more videos on that, I will claim a front row seat to watch!

[@sandihester]

Awe - thanks!!!!!! So glad you enjoyed it!

[@jamesstrickland228]

I absolutely love your video's! I started painting in the 80's and am still learning. Love you dear. Take care !

[@bunnyrose9525]

Sandi, you have seen all of my comments, so you know I've been bingewatching your channel. I was so blessed this month to stumble upon three ladies' YT channels who are all Christians sharing their passions and resourcefulness and creativity. I took two years of art in Jr College (a million and a half years ago), and ever since I've been trying to regain that feeling of excitement and creativity that I felt in the art department. It was something that is nearly impossible to recreate. Anyway, as an adult, I had simply been playing around. I'd never gotten to actual painting classes in my schooling (they never had enough enrollees), so I was just teaching myself by doing. At that time, there were no computers (and dinosaurs ate the rose bushes down to bare nubs in the front yard), and I had no resources for inspiration. Eventually the dinosaurs died, and I found a teacher. I was so excited at first, but I changed mediums (to watercolor) and began to feel pressure. It wasn't the medium I wanted to take. I'd been playing in cheap watercolors for years and having fun, but I liked oil and pastels. I wanted to learn oils. I chose watercolor because I felt pressured by a friend to do so. :( Bad mistake. She meant well, but go with your gut. I was miserable for a year as I struggled with real watercolors. I felt so much pressure, and it was all about making something fit to hang (at least in my mind) and I no longer felt inspired, but observed. I wanted to fling my body over my art every time the teacher came by so she wouldn't see how I had messed it up. My teacher also said never throw anything away, so I hope that's not the same teacher! :) I finally felt frustrated and stopped going. Not because I didn't love them, but because I was so unhappy with my results and absolutely dreaded it. I needed to get back to where I was happy playing. So, I've been kind of in limbo and still craving that creative space. I've been fixing up my studio/office and found your channel. Somehow, I get more "creative atmosphere" out of your channel than I have found anywhere else. In all of the other channels, I don't get the feeling of art process and what goes on upstairs and how that affects the technique. Other videos lead a person to think it's a mystery, and paint just leaks out of the brush, and it works out if you spend enough money. I'm grateful to you and these videos. Still needing to learn the right way to oil point!!!! One day, I'll go back to class. I haven't been mentally there, but I'm getting there. Even looking at that book... that is straight up just like my old art teacher. He would dash things off and scribble and it would turn out perfect.

[@sandihester]

Wow Rose - THANK YOU!!! I appreciate the binge watching 🤗 and I really thank you for this in site!!!! It helps me know what I’m doing right on this channel. I had someone leave a comment that I was chatting too much 😂 and I told them this might not be the channel for them 😬😳 - I’ve been hearing from y’all and you want to “hear” the upstairs talk (I like the way you worded that. Thank you!❤️

[@bunnyrose9525]

@@sandihester Every channel I like has a few dedicated haters, so just ignore them. They can't be happy people. I talk to myself ALLLL the time. I'm sure my neighbors can hear me (or when I trip and hit a wall). So, I felt a kinship in that. Keep being you. It's gotten you this far. It's bound to work out for the best. :) Don't apologize for long videos. I may have to stop and finish it later (or I save it for those boring workdays), but I will watch it! :) I like the long ones, but whatever works for you.

[@sandihester]

@@bunnyrose9525 thank you Rose❤️❤️❤️

[@liliangarcez3180]

You touched a very interesting point: I get tense when I paint, to the point of getting a pain around the right side scapula, which is the side where I hold pencil/pincel. I cling to the material and get a tense arm. I noticed this because I got into some watercolor classes, as I don't know how to use it. But the exercises have right/wrong and we have a group in Telegram with very advanced students, who do botanical illustration, so I keep feeling the poop of the bandit's horse. In acrylic and mixed media painting I'm starting to get loose, but in watercolor I find it impossible, so I found your example of an aquarelist interesting. In fact there is no sense in such physical and emotional stress to create. I found it a super happy coincidence that you approached this issue at the same moment that I'm realizing it. The video was very useful and will be revisited many times. Kisses!

[@sandihester]

Wow Lilian - that's crazy timing! Man alive I'm so glad this was that helpful! I hope this can help you not have that paint - eek! Thank you for taking time to write me and for letting me know how this video was helpful - sooooo encouraging!

[@eileenroth9868]

Love the paintings of churches ! Thank you for the inspiration !❤️

[@helencryer]

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! This is about the most useful art related thing I have ever seen! So much so that I think this is the first KZbin comment I've ever left! I'm so annoying and perfectionisty and tight when it comes to art, and though in theory I've heard a lot of what you've said in different places before, somehow you made it actually click in my head! ....now to get on with happily making plenty of rubbish (hopefully improving) art!!!

[@sandihester]

Awe - I’m so glad it was helpful and clicked!!!!

[@rachellemcconnell6647]

Sandi, Sandi!! Thank you for this video!

[@sandihester]

You’re so welcome!

[@juliebittinger46]

Thanks! Marvelous! So glad I discovered you!! Another silver lining oh having to recover from Covid!!

[@sandihester]

Thanks Julie!!!

[@CeruleanCzarina]

Thank you for sharing this, Sandi! I need to hear this over and over again. Your videos are always so inspirational and make me excited to just create art without pressure and expectations!

[@sandihester]

I'm so glad to hear that! I'm so glad you found it helpful!

[@kimberlyjeffers1623]

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this video. It really helped me to be secure in how I’m just painting for myself these days, putting aside the commissions and just working in my journals. I’m stuck in that place of not having enough work - exactly what you said would happen if you don’t paint for yourself and trust the process. Getting out of it slowly. Happy I sat down and digested this video. Thanks again

[@sandihester]

Awe - Kimberly - I'm so glad this was such a helpful video!!! Thank you for taking time to write me!

[@wildandshymoments]

This is the most mindblowingly transformative painting instruction! Thank you, thank you. . . Love your whole approach Sandi!

[@hannahruthwalker6867]

Thank you so much for making this wonderful video - I am so encouraged by it and its helping me go into the studio with less fear today!!! I've saved to it rewatch again in the future and share with others!!

[@peggyhuffman5309]

Sandi, just found this video. Thank you so much for taking the time to put this together to share with us. I've always struggled with being tight when drawing or painting. I'm looking forward to putting your tips into practice. I think they are going to be incredibly helpful

[@sandihester]

Awe - I’m so glad to hear that and that you found it helpful!

[@anateresamendes-collins615]

I think I have watched this video half a dozen times as I struggle to paint loose. So thank you for making it. I would love to see start to finish how you prep and paint with acrylics in your sketchbooks. I find myself only using certain supplies in my sketchbooks (craft paint vs my artist paints) then I find I can get the same feel when I paint it on the canvas. Thank you. Aka. Ladybird 💕🐞💕

[@sandihester]

Wow - that really blesses me that you’d watch it that many times and find it helpful! I suggest using the same supplies in your sketchbook as you do to do a “finished” painting. You will learn the materials so much better and I think in the long run it will really be a help to you. Thank you for your kind words!

[@lauraking1331]

Just rewatched this ~ great inspiration the second time around too! Thanks so much and Happy New Year!

[@sandihester]

🥰 so glad it’s helpful!!!!

[@cindypatterson8157]

I hear everything you said...I say these things to everyone I come in to contact with, just create...

[@Janartable]

So inspiring!! I’m going to put a link to my facebook journal group. I know they will find it as helpful as I did!! I love that you showed another artist that inspires you...you do that often, and I always go check them out.

[@sandihester]

First off THANK YOU for sharing my channel ❤️❤️❤️🥰 and secondly I’m so glad you enjoy when I share other artists that I find inspiring!

[@freyartz]

So many nuggets of wisdom in this video... thank you. 😊 🎨 🖌

[@MartaTaylor]

I love watching your videos, I always feel so much better and more inspired after 🥰

[@Hinkheart]

So so good 🎉 !!! Thank you for saving me from tightness and detail! I have to start tomorrow! ❤

[@debbie9035]

I just found you and really glad I did! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and tips to be loose. I really needed to make “enjoying the process” my main focus even when producing bad art. My stress in creating comes from preconceived ideas of how my art should look based on reality or even how others had produced great art. I really needed to hear this said out loud. Your words are truly a great gift.

[@sandihester]

Welcome Debbie! So glad this was helpful!

[@gayebrodie9664]

Hi Sandi, I loved the video. The bits about the mind and self talk really really rang true and I will try to squash that critical monster which is ever present and does get in the way of me creating. And some of the explanations of why we have that, 'this is going to be the masterpiece', the one where everyone will see that I am an artist truly!!! Your cheeryness is really infectious and I won't mind catching it one bit. You have made today great and I feel inspired. Thank you so much. Happy New Year to you and Grady

[@sandihester]

Oh Gaye, I'm so glad you enjoyed it and that it was a help! Kick that monster out of your studio and get to painting! Happy New Year!

[@ignisdivinus7669]

Very useful tips Sandi. Thank you for sharing 👍

[@sandihester]

You bet Ignis!

[@mollydunn104]

Thank you sooooo much, Sandi!!! I am genuinely inspired by your enthusiasm and extremely helpful information. I absolutely LOVED THIS VIDEO!!! I know at my very core I'm a creative person. The Greatest Creator ever (God) lives inside of me. I'm sure God was not uptight and stressed when he created the world. I've made a promise to myself to ZIP the negative talk. I will have fun and enjoy the process of creating little snapshots of God's magnificent world.

[@sandihester]

Awe, Molly, I'm so glad you found this helpful and inspiring!!!! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@Julie-vy3oz]

Watching as I work in my journal- so helpful to remind myself perfection is not the journey.

[@sandihester]

So true!

[@babbsromero3471]

Your tips are so valuable to me! Thank you! 🙏

[@sandihester]

I’m so glad to hear that! Thank you!

[@vickisigh2674]

sandi thank you so much for this video that is just chock full of wisdom. you share such important practices and lessons about the process of making art that have taken me years to learn and still require regular reminders to self.

[@rowinggranny5216]

Sandi, this is just the best video, so much helpful and inspiring information Thank you so much xx

[@elenamigaldi7404]

Wow…just WOW!! Thank you!!!!♥️

[@sandihester]

Awe - thank you Elena!!!!

[@jasmijnvs1096]

Thank you so much Sandi for addressing this. This is not only good for art but for your whole life. I think I’m gonna use this for my life, I’ve got a lot of tightness in my body and it comes from all the things I wanna do right and want people to like me. I have to assess this and breath normally. I wrote this all down and gonna use this, I wanna play and be free in life!!❤️🤗

[@sandihester]

I agree with you Jas - it’s how I live my life and that’s why it flows into my art practice too. I’m so glad it was helpful!

[@joukjekeuning1024]

Oh yeah I am gonna try your tips! Very nice video 👍

[@ashleyknott2448]

You are special. Thank you for sharing!

[@sandihester]

Awe- thank you!

[@anneliesgeefnietop7819]

@ Mary, so fun to see your paintings up close. Your doing so good! Keep going and loving it! And show it on the Frey Life when your ready.

[@mell5111]

Watched and rewatched and will happily watch again 😄

[@sandihester]

Thank you 🙌

[@DivineArt-By-Rakhi]

Hi Sandy, I watched few of your videos and I am getting addicted to the simplicity. I love your painting style and your studio is heaven:)

[@sandihester]

Awe - thank you - I appreciate that!!

[@DarkMoonSanctuary]

I LOVE LOVE THIS VIDEO AND TOPIC. Thank you for sharing.

[@sandihester]

I’m so glad you liked it!

[@elizabethcameron6045]

I love your philosophy and find that I am starting to believe it! You're awesome!

[@mhd5826]

When I was on my art foundation course at college my tutor said we are going to do life drawing, only, SHE would hand out the tools. She gave me this scrubby looking 2inch wide decorators brush, sepia runny ink and A6 scraps of paper. I was like "WHAT THE...? HOW am I meant to draw with THAT?!" Well, it was such a fun session, very liberating. Especially when we had to draw with our non-dominant hand too or without looking at the paper. Very fun. I'm coming back to drawing after years of being distracted and I'm having to relearn fun. Love your words. Thankyou!

[@robinsartsandcrafts6500]

YES!!! All great advice ❤️

[@sandihester]

Thank you!

[@liarnecorke5373]

Thank you. Inspiring and reassuring that my messiness is my fun zone

[@sandihester]

You bet!

[@mariliansantilli7756]

This video is useful and very helpful and wonderful thanks for sharing your experiences 👍🏻🙏💐👌👏

[@cathybockel1213]

This is so good on so many levels. Thank you a million!

[@katherinehankinskelley9139]

Very nice video. I'm going to become loose! That's what I like!

[@luluesparza7360]

Thank you for sharing - I love your studio!

[@mijkevanleersum3100]

What a lovely talk, thank you for sharing

[@SuzanneDesign]

Love ❤️ your positive attitude! I’m a clincher and definitely need to loosen up. I need to kick that perfectionist to the curb.

[@sandihester]

Yep - to the curb for sure! Thank you for your kind words!

[@island2112]

This is GREAT advise. YOU ARE SO INSPIRING. Thank you

[@Chrysalis52]

Thanks for the great tips and the list!! Been loving all of your videos, I'll probably rewatch all of them again, you have the cutest personality. Thanks for the book share too!!

[@sandihester]

Thank you Christine! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the channel 🤗

[@marlenerogers2995]

Great message that I needed to hear - Thank you!

[@sandihester]

So glad to hear that!

[@Janartable]

Hi Sandi! ( I say that like we’re friends. Haha.) I did a screenshot of your two little staying loose posters and sent them to my daughter who is just starting to enjoy drawing and painting. She’s so talented, but has no idea. Mama always knows. I’m **thrilled** of course! I know your little tip posters will help her like they help me. Thanks again. :)

[@catbraunwell6450]

Thank you, Sandy! Excellent inspirational video. I don’t have a lot of trouble just having fun. I have more trouble sitting down and accomplishing a proper painting. But I have so many friends that only paint what they can sell or what they think will sell. I’m going to tell them about your video. I really enjoy listening to you while I’m painting in the background….Or I guess you’re in the background and I’m in the foreground… Ha ha Thank you.

[@SaraEFR74]

I've just discovered your channel and I have to say... You are inspiring ! Definitely my new favourite KZbinr xxx

[@sandihester]

Awe - thank you so much Sara!!!!! I’m thrilled you’re enjoying it!

[@joanzivi7425]

Just watched this for the second time and it has so much helpful and useful stuff and advice and resources. Thank you Sandi!

[@sandihester]

Goodness Joan - thank you!!! I worked really hard on that video and really wanted that message to help and get through to people - thank you for taking time to write!

[@lauraking1331]

This is fantastic! Thanks so much for consolidating all of your 'loose' thoughts and sharing them. What a wonderful New Year's gift! Cheers to a 2021 filled with good health, good humor and lots of painting!

[@sandihester]

Thank you Laura! I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Happy new year - AND YES to lots more painting!

[@lauraking1331]

@@sandihester ❤️

[@laurelstephens3448]

Thank you so much for sharing your ideas about loose painting; I’m so inspired and motivated by them. I took screen shots from your video with my iPad to reference later along with your video. As I was doing that, it occurred to me how much I’d enjoy having your lists and examples and these ideas in a book format. Just a short, simple, colorful, charming, Sandi-style, book I could purchase on Amazon (or your website) with the sweet illustrations from this video, like the “top tips for staying loose” one. I’d one-click-purchase that book in a heartbeat. :) Anyway, thanks, again. I’ll be printing out my screenshots and hanging them in my studio to help remind and inspire me to stay loose. And one day, I hope to be purchasing a reference book by Sandi Hester!

[@sandihester]

It’s one of my dreams to have a book out one day!

[@ili_haven]

I just stubled across your channel yesterday and omg I LOVE your work, process, and perspective on art and creating! Also, I did not expect to see Mary on this channel! what a duo you two are!

[@sandihester]

So glad you’re enjoying it ! Mary’s a dear friend!

[@myedachs]

Awesome information. Inspired to go forth and make art.

[@sandihester]

So glad to hear that!

[@davidlapointe1640]

Hi Sandi...Very helpful for a newbie like me...Thanx so much! :)

[@sandihester]

So glad to hear that David!