Welcome to My Creative Space

For the first time since launching my art business online, I stepped away. No Instagram posts, no reels, no curated captions—just me, my husband, and the humbling experience of exploring a culture vastly different from our own. That break was a blessing, and a revelation.

Art is often celebrated as a beacon of light—a healer, a form of therapy, a way to express the inexpressible. For many artists, including myself, creating is not just a passion but a lifeline. It’s where I find clarity, peace, and purpose. But behind the vibrant brushstrokes and curated Instagram grids lies a quieter, more complex reality: the dark side of making art.

There’s a quiet rebellion in leaving a painting unfinished.

Every artist has their rituals—those small, sacred steps that mark the end of a painting session and the beginning of reflection. For me, the moment I put down my brush doesn’t mean the work is over. In fact, what follows is just as important as the creative process itself. Whether you’re a fellow painter, an art collector, or someone curious about the behind-the-scenes of studio life, here’s a glimpse into my post-painting routine—mess, magic, and all.

As an artist selling original paintings online, I’ve always felt the pressure to stay active on social media—posting regularly, engaging with followers, and feeding the algorithm. But lately, I’ve stepped back. And surprisingly, I don’t feel guilty about it.

For years, my brush has been devoted to the human form. Portraits and figurative art have shaped my artistic rhythm, offering a structure I’ve come to rely on—a kind of choreography where each step leads naturally to the next. There’s a comfort in that. A face, after all, follows a certain logic: bone structure, shadow, emotion. Once you’ve internalized the anatomy and mastered the nuances of skin tone and light, the process becomes almost mathematical. Not easy, but familiar.

Art is never just paint on canvas—it’s a quiet conversation between the artist and the subject, shaped by time, technique, and emotion. In my work, this dialogue unfolds through layering, a method that demands patience and invites introspection. But as with all creative paths, my journey also includes an encounter with a contrasting method: alla prima.

Oil painting, with all its lush textures and glowing depth, holds a magic that’s hard to match. But while the creative process flows, the drying often… stalls. For those who’ve danced with linseed and waited days (or weeks!) for a canvas to set, you’re not alone. Here are some tried-and-true tips for coaxing your oils into a faster dry—without sacrificing quality.

Original Artwork | 6 x 60 cm | Oil on Canvas | By Annalisa

Returning to my studio after two weeks away felt different this time. My travels weren’t just about escaping the familiar — they led me to a world beautifully unlike my own, one that quietly reshaped the lens through which I create.

Creating art is more than just technique—it’s about emotion, connection, and a deep-rooted passion. Yet, even the most dedicated artists face moments of burnout, doubt, or creative stagnation. Whether you paint for pure expression or as part of a business, staying connected to your artistic passion is essential for producing meaningful work and maintaining motivation.

When it comes to painting a subject, the choice really boils down to personal preference. Some artists specialize in portraits, while others focus solely on landscapes. Naturally, there are those who, despite having a preference, enjoy painting both. I fall into this category. I love painting people, but I also like to break away with the occasional landscape.