Perfect Is Overrated
The secret to a more compelling composition isn’t mirror-like symmetry — it’s knowing how to achieve balance without it.
What Most Portrait Painters Get Wrong
and How Lyn Diefenbach Gets It Right
What I Brought Home From the Ozarks
Plein air painting tips, demo highlights, and Ozarks landscapes from the 2026 Plein Air Convention, plus a preview of 2027 at Zion and Bryce Canyon.
You Already Know Your True Style and Subject
A Guest Column by Spanish Realist Daniel Coves
The Hidden History of Gouache
Explore the history of gouache painting, from medieval manuscript illumination to Matisse's cut-outs, and discover why master artists have relied on this versatile medium for centuries.
Two Ways to See Spring
Two painters, one year — and two completely different visions of the season.
3 Essential Steps to Creating Your Best Paintings Yet
Thomas W. Schaller shares 3 truths that can help save you from unnecessary moments of frustration, doubt, and discouragement.
What Do Jurors Actually Look For? Here’s the Truth.
15 qualities that elevate a painting from simply successful to truly exceptional
Before the Mona Lisa, There Were Monsters
Leonardo’s Obsession With Weird Faces
Why Every Great Painting Starts With Science
C.W. Mundy explains the foundational truths every artist — and collector — should know.