Creativity takes courage.
There are always flowers for those who want to see them.
I never retouch a sketch: I take a canvas the same size, as I may change the composition somewhat. But I always strive to give the same feeling, while carrying it on further.
The whole arrangement of my picture is expressive. The place occupied by the figures or objects, the empty spaces around them, the proportions, everything plays a part.
Don’t try to be original. Be simple. Be good technically, and if there is something in you, it will come out.