How to paint like an old master--- by Gardega

1) You cannot paint like an old master so do not try.


2) Instead, paint like yourself and perhaps you can become a New Master.


3) Do not rely on photographs until you know how to draw from life, then you can use photographs.


4) Do not become a commercial hack, hold onto the elusive and difficult squirmy worm of integrity, it is the only umbrella you will have against the rains of despair. It is like virginity--- the only thing you cannot get back after it is lost. Give not into pet portraiture unless all is lost and the wolves are chewing at your cold and naked toes and even then it is better to be brave and sketch those very wolves than paint bourgeois poodles for a handful of clammy dimes.

5) Never listen to professors or other artists, they are fools and have nothing to tell you.


6) Do not (under any circumstances) subscribe to any methods or SYSTEMS that you ape from another. This is the surest way to kill the spark of genius that smolders in inside.