In my painting class this fall I have been pushed to start painting with my palette knife. It has been such a great experience! It's so challenging to control the knife that it makes very realistic painting feel impossible - for me, I have seen some insanely detailed and accurate palette knife paintings by other artists! Somehow knowing that I can't get too realistic has really freed me up to focus on gesture and suggestion in a way that I absolutely love. I hope to keep up that freedom with my brushwork going forward!
These two were 20-minute sketches. The time limit also really helped to force me to focus on the most important elements and not get too fussy about the details.
These exercises have been transformational. I highly recommend continuing to study whatever you're passionate about. There is always more to learn!!