I’ve been having fun playing with acrylic paints. I still have a long way to go before I would consider myself a painter, but I’m comfortable in my apprenticeship. I continue to watch videos on different styles and techniques, then spend a week or so playing around to see what I can do with them.
Lately, I’ve been leaning more towards abstract experimentation, playing with colors, and geometric shapes using tape and sponges for texture. It’s fun to begin adding paint to the canvas without a clear idea of where I want to go with it, then slowly begin to see something begin to take shape.
I know the proper way to go about painting would be to take courses, follow a lesson plan, and learn all the rules. Sort of like writing. But then, I’m not interested in becoming a professional painter. At least, I don’t expect to. I’m interested in having fun, experimenting, and learning from trial and error.
That’s one of the reasons I picked up a large container of gesso. I’ve been painting, taking a photo 
of the finished piece, then painting over it with the gesso so I can try something new. I’ve kept a few canvases that I’ve displayed on my home office walls (for my own amusement). Most, however, are momentary visuals that I try and learn from before they disappear.
I think it’s important to have fun no matter what I’m doing, whether it be writing, painting, making music, or cooking. There is a certain amount of joy when I try something new or different and have it work out. I never make a recipe the same way twice. I always try to write each story with a different voice. I play around with different effects on my guitar and keyboards. Not everything works, obviously, but when it does I’m thrilled.
Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries with your creativity. It makes the creative process much more fun and entertaining.
RB