Breaking the Artistic Rules: Reimagining a Stingray Painting for the Midwest City Library Exhibition

A vibrant stingray with a colorful, polka-dotted pattern glides gracefully through an underwater scene of lush seaweed and pastel-hued fish.

From Photo to Painting

Several years ago, I took a photograph of a stingray gliding effortlessly through the water. The moment I saw it, I knew it would make an amazing painting. The stingray’s graceful form and mysterious beauty practically composed the artwork for me.

When I finally painted it, I loved the stingray itself… but the background? Not so much. It felt flat and disconnected, like the poor thing was gliding through beige soup instead of shimmering, living water.

Why Artists “Don’t” Rework Finished Paintings

Traditionally, once a painting is signed and framed, it’s considered finished. Artists typically move on to new work rather than revisit old pieces. But as I prepared for my upcoming art exhibition at the Midwest City Library, I looked at that stingray and thought, Nope — you’re not ready for the spotlight just yet.

Breaking Artistic Rules

I decided to break the so-called artistic rules and rework the background. My goal is to blend richer textures and colors that better complement the stingray and bring the whole composition to life.

This habit of mine — “fixing” paintings long after they’re considered finished — drives Matt a little crazy. He’ll ask, “How can you see the evolution if you just paint over it?” He has a point. For him, each brushstroke is part of the artwork’s history. But for me, sometimes the story needs a sequel — and occasionally, a plot twist.

When a Painting Begs for Help

A vibrant stingray painting sits on an easel, poised for a reimagined backdrop, showcasing colorful aquatic life amidst lush underwater greenery.

Yes, there are times when a painting is so horrendous it practically begs for a rescue mission. I’ve learned to accept that, lean in, and help it become what it always wanted to be.

Follow the Stingray’s Transformation

Curious how this creative tug-of-war plays out? Matt doesn't think I should re-work paintings because I am destroying the history of my evolution. Sometimes the painting begs and who am I to say no?

Follow along as I share updates on reworking this stingray painting and preparing for the Midwest City Library art exhibition. If you’re an art lover, creative spirit, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes process of an artist, this journey is for you.

Thanks for reading The 3rd Flamingo — a blog for art lovers, creative wanderers, and anyone who’s ever made a beautiful mess.

Subscribe or check back soon to see if this stingray gets the dazzling backdrop it deserves.