How to Use Sketchbooks to Generate Ideas

I am often asked how I take ideas from my sketchbook and turn them into large paintings. I don’t really do this at all - I never copy a composition over from a book onto a panel - but I do generate new ideas in my sketchbooks and this week, I’m showing you what I mean. It all comes down to noticing what you are enjoying, because that is a massive clue that you need to do more of that. We tend not to give credence to our own desires or interests, but actually, as an artist that is all you have. Lean into it! If you'd like to learn about the artist community I mention, visit