The painting process for me is like having a conversation between me, my brush, and an empty canvas.

Some painting conversations are harmonious. The canvas, my brush, and I agree on most, if not all, points. This is a rarely reached Nirvana.

Other painting conversations are antagonistic. The painting deviates from my plan and argues over almost every point. I have to paint and re-paint layer after layer, until we reach an agreement.

Both types of paintings eventually satisfy me, but I must admit it is the troublemakers that teach me the most.