Study from Rembrandt Painting

I spent my working years as a Creative Director and graphic artist in advertising. I have painted off and on a little over the years but never really got in a gallery or did many shows. But now I’m painting seriously. My approach is often to discover something, without any preconceived ideas. Many of my canvasses get painted over or thrown away because I don't like the direction. Once I start and find the direction, I’m on my way. I do not have a style, I'm not sure I want one. I'm greatly influenced by the work of others, but I want my painting to take me somewhere I’ve never been. I like to discover and be surprised by what comes out. But for me, there is a risk of throwing something away before I realize it has value. I have to live with it for a while.