hidden time sinks

Acrylic still life floral painting
Blue abstract flowers with pink and blue background
Flower Series 152
Fine art giclee prints are available here

This is what 100 hardboard panels look like. On one hand, it’s exciting to have all these blank slates staring back at me. On the other hand, I think the worst part about getting new substrate is all the time it takes to prep them. So, right after I receive a new order from Blick, I know it’s going to take me 2 or 3 days to do all the prep work. Each side of the panel gets two coats of gesso. I like to protect the wood, and I think it lasts longer/looks nicer if the back is painted, also. I have fans setup in my studio year round, so it keeps drying time to a minimum, but still..it’s A LOT of work. These are hidden time sinks. Three days is a looong time to go without pay, so I have to keep it in mind when I price my paintings. Are you giving yourself an hourly wage? 

Harold said to wish you a happy weekend. 🙂