The creative process is like hunting. I have to stalk the soul of the painting that is hiding in the proverbial bushes somewhere and does not want to come out. I have to be quiet, gentle because my quarry is shy and will bolt easily. Everyone knows the feeling of being creatively blocked. Either you are too hard on your self or too easily pleased, too frustrated or disappointed that it does not become what you intended. Will I be arrested by the art police? Finding this balance within my self is the heart of creativity.
"Annunciation" Preparatory sketch. Chalk on paper.
I may start with a scribble session. Quick line drawings of some random ideas. The emphasis here is one the idea not the drawing. It should be done quicker than the mind can think, or you end up never surprising yourself.
These drawings may become the basis of a new work. A larger drawing is made. one that is a little more real. If all goes well at this point reference photos might be made, from which the final drawing on the canvas is executed. This is then coloured in with a sepia or single tone, then eventually worked into the finished painting.