Painting Intuitively, Not Impulsively

Featured artwork Fleeting Moment by Ruth Maude

I often say I paint intuitively, but over the past year, I’ve realized I often paint impulsively instead. At first, the difference between the two may seem small. For me, however, it’s significant

What’s the Difference Between Impulsive and Intuitive Painting?

The difference between painting impulsively and painting intuitively comes down to how much thought you put into each stroke. Impulsive painting is all about acting on the moment’s energy. While intuitive painting on the other hand, is about tuning in and letting your inner sense guide each step.

Impulsive Painting

Impulsive painting shows a lack of restraint or consideration. It stems from random urges rather than a deeper artistic process. At times, impulsive painting can be freeing and therapeutic (as with Expressive Arts Therapy). However, without grounding, it may not capture the artist’s vision.

Impulsivity often translates to immediate, unchecked actions without foresight. This spontaneity can bring exciting bursts of energy to a piece. But sometimes it can be frustrating—like when I’ve just painted over something I quite liked! For me, impulsivity is strongly linked to living with ADHD, where the urge to act quickly without thought takes over. To develop a more intuitive style, I need to work on channeling and controlling my impulsive tendencies.

What does it mean to paint intuitively?

Intuitive painting is guided by inner awareness and intention, not quick reactions. It draws on emotions, experiences, and subconscious cues but isn’t rushed or random. Instead, it blends freedom with mindfulness, letting artists trust the process while staying true to their vision.

When painting intuitively, you rely on an inner dialogue, building on a blend of emotion, memory, and artistic instinct. Each stroke, colour, and mark has a purpose. They may not be fully conscious or planned but is nonetheless reflective of the artist’s inner world. The intuitive artist is deeply connected to the flow of creation. They listening to subtle cues from their own intuition, and responding to the evolving artwork with curiosity. This often leads to work that feels organic and layered, with meaning emerging over time, sometimes even surprising the artist.

1. Let impulsiveness have its place

Distinguishing between impulsivity and intuition has been both eye-opening and incredibly helpful for me. Recognizing the differences allows me to choose between the raw, expressive energy of impulsive strokes and the thoughtful connection of intuitive painting. Impulsive gestures can add wonderful energy to a painting. And so, I begin paintings with play, allowing impulsiveness to have its day.

2. Work on multiples

Working on several pieces at a time helps me manage impulsivity. It’s easy to get hyper-focused on one painting, but moving between several pieces diffuses the intensity and gives me fresh perspectives. Read more here about Working on Multiples.

3. Set intentions and slow down

After a playful start, I bring my conscious mind into the process. I stop painting completely and hang it up on my easel wall and spend some time looking at it in different orientations. Setting even a loose intention gives the painting direction and helps control impulsive urges.

Intuition doesn’t ignore spontaneity but encourages a slower, intentional pace that lets the artist listen to subtle cues from within. Taking time between strokes to assess the composition helps me to respond thoughtfully to the evolving piece. Pausing to step back and examine each layer creates a mindful, intentional flow. I’m learning to check in with myself more frequently, giving space to each decision instead of acting on every urge.

4. Create digital reference photos

Another strategy that works well for me is creating digital reference photos. I take a photo of my work in progress, open it in Photoshop (Procreate works well too), and experiment digitally. This process lets me control impulsive urges, and I can always “undo” as needed. When I’m satisfied with the digital version, I bring it back to the studio as a guide.

Accepting my impulsive side and learning to channel it with intention has deepened my self-understanding. It has also strengthened my growth as an artist. I hope these tips help other artists facing similar struggles.