An oval is really a circle drawn in perspective. But don't be afraid of the word 'perspective'! Drawing eclipses or ovals can seem tricky. If it's drawn badly, meaning that it's not in perspective, it can really throw the whole work off. If it's done well, the work reads as ‘true'. It's easier than you think to draw ovals correctly. [...]

I think everyone, at some point in their painting lives, has a bit of ‘painter's block'. It's such an awful feeling..... Instead of thinking, “I want to paint something”, reframe the idea. Ask yourself, “What might I want to explore?” This will immediately take the pressure off of feeling like you need to have a ‘finished' work. Instead, you will be in exploration mode. [...]