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Why Do Some Paintings Feel Alive?

Louise Fletcher Art

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Why do some paintings feel alive while others leave us feeling nothing?

In this artist's diary, I take you inside my studio as I wrestle with one of the biggest questions I've ever asked about my own work. I'm creating a new series of contemporary portrait paintings inspired by old family photographs, but my goal isn't to copy the images. I'm trying to make the paintings feel like memories.

Join me as I experiment with collage, charcoal, acrylic, sanding and layers of paint in search of surfaces that feel worn by time. Along the way I share the artists inspiring me, the breakthroughs (and frustrations) that happen in the studio, and why I believe every painting carries the history of its own making.

If you love contemporary art, painting, creativity, family history or simply enjoy spending time in an artist's studio, I hope you'll enjoy coming along for the journey.

If you're new here, welcome! I'm Louise Fletcher, a British artist exploring memory, identity and the emotional power of paint through a weekly artist's diary.

I'd love to know your thoughts in the comments:
What makes a painting feel alive to you?

#ArtistStudio #ContemporaryArt #PaintingProcess #PortraitPainting #ArtistDiary #AbstractArt #CreativeProcess #FamilyHistory #FineArt #LouiseFletcher

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20 Comments

@sandimagle3085 2 months ago

I've been following for awhile now, but this feels the most honest and real of your work. Not because it is representational, but because of the joy in your eyes when speaking about it. Love your journey, Sandi

@MartinBaldock 2 months ago

These paintings carry and communicate so much more than the photographs which are a snapshots of a moment in time. That's the thing that a painting can do, and you do it so well. The one of your Dad is particularly striking and "alive". You rebellious teamaker you!

@joantenenbaum1738 2 months ago

Louise, the paintings in their finished state gave me chills. I feel it. The history, the time, the years, the remnants, like when you tear an old house down and you find artifacts behind the walls that fell down decades earlier.

@Nicola-B-1900 2 months ago

They're fantastic. They capture not only the two boys, they capture boys of that era.

@jaynewarriner7214 8 days ago

Your’re wisdom hits the heart of the artist.

@sarigoldberg2499 2 months ago

I've been with ;you through classes, videos, art tribe etc but I think this series is just on a different level and I adore them. BUT what struck me most in this video is YOU! You seem lighter, more relaxed, happier and just enjoying what you are doing. I'm thrilled (even though I will miss you) that you are now settled into your new home/studio and doing what makes you happy! You seem to have definitely Found Your Joy!

@suzannesmith-ellis7102 2 months ago

Louise—this is the BEST explanation of what makes a painting “work” & come alive I’ve ever seen. It’s really struck a note for me at this time in my artistic journey.
So glad to see this; I’ve learned so much from you in the last few years. I’ll definitely re watch this explanation of your process again & again to remind myself when I get stuck.
You are a gifted teacher as well as artist—a rare combination. Thank you.

@HeidiKarlsen-dk 4 weeks ago

Your painting process and the paintings themselves are such a huge inspiration to me.

@TTSocialMedia 4 days ago

All I’ve seen of your videos has been so helpful; thank you!!!

@patriciacoughlinphd1852 2 months ago

These are stunning. This is your zone of genius.

@gailkraal2355 3 weeks ago

The process of painting is the journey that fills not only the canvas but also the soul. These paintings touched that element completely. Loved watching .

@LousefTufnell-vo4jb 6 days ago

You're completely changing how I think and approach my practice.

@joannepower203 11 days ago

These are some of your most moving pieces for me…bravo

@janinafisher101 1 month ago

I think what brought life to these paintings is your absolute passion about them, Louise! I am working on a series of barns, and I absolutely love old wooden and stone buildings. I think using this philosophy of adding and subtracting and creating a history within the painting could be stunning on paintings of old buildings. You've got me inspired now!

@godprintking 2 months ago

So glad someone sent me your video, I love your paintings! I know my mom would have too. All best, Mark Baron, son of Hannelore Baron

@Eternal-Student 1 month ago

Gosh I love these Louise. I love listening to you, seeing you struggle and achieve what you do. From one northern lass to another! Thank you.

@KateColors 7 days ago

I'm adding painting my mum and dad from separate photos I took of them when I first got my instamatic camera when I was 16. I forced everybody into the light, one at a time, on the porch after we came back from church that morning to get their picture. Maybe, I'll do all of us.

You said something here that I've always felt was a flaw in me. Hearing you say, "Artists need constant stimulation," EXPLAINS me. Thank you for that. ❤

@sherryoliver3215 1 month ago

This was absolutely wonderful and oh so helpful. I am enthused!

@sarahnorthcott 3 days ago

I am so enjoying your videos. Thank you.

@yopestevens1505 2 months ago

Watching you boldly go where you haven't been before is enormously satisfying, Louise! Not normally a fan of figurative paintings at all, I am loving the wealth of history and expression against the sparseness of detail in yours. That tiny bit of blue is an inspired choice, just right. You've really tapped into something and it shows. I'm so happy for you! ❤