#the100dayproject recap

I did it! I completed #the100dayproject! And now, I have 100 paintings. And I’m happier. If you want to hear all about my experience, check out Elise’s podcast. Elise took the project on and shared 100 pep talks on her Instagram. So many days they seemed to speak directly to me! We got together and talked all about our 100 days so be sure to check it out.

If you’re not into listening to me talk, here’s a list of what I learned while completing #the100dayproject:

1. It was hard to paint on days when I was already making things. When I photographed a cookbook, I created (in my opinion) my worst pieces.
2. It took 10 days of daily painting to come up with my theme : abstracted aerials.
3. I love painting with oils. Watercolor and acrylics are alright.
4. As the days progressed, the challenge got easier. I had to create mini challenges to prevent myself from falling into a rut or coasting on an idea for too long. For example, on day 85, I decided not to use the color white. I know, riveting stuff.
5. I never wanted to quit but I wanted to cheat. There were a few weekends where I thought about painting 5 extra paintings and post them throughout the week. But I didn’t!
6. I’m a much nicer person when I take the time to create every day. I’m a much nicer person when I take time for myself every day. I’m a much nicer person when I don’t work 24/7.
7. The first day creating is awkward and frustrating. The next few days can feel the same. But after a few weeks, it’s fun. You begin to trust your gut and your eye. And after a couple of months, you’re making things for yourself (not for anyone else).
8. For those thinking of doing this challenge, some advice: do something you can afford (this project cost about $2,000), tell your friends and family about it (their support is huge!) and set a theme or give yourself some sort of rails.

For those interested in seeing the work, you can browse my Instagram OR check out my online shop! I decided to sell a large collection of the work and you can pre-order prints, too!

PS: If you’re just really into the number 100, check out Jenna’s video where she applies 100 layers of various makeup things. It’s…hilarious. Don’t watch it if you’re offended by swearing or near a small child… :)