Loss and creativity

Dear Friends,

As you know, this newsletter/blog is where I write about art, what inspires me, my painting process, upcoming events and all things art-wise. And although it’s not so much about family, sometimes that’s inescapable. I will try to stay focused on the art-side of life.

For most artists creativity seems to ebb and flow rather rhythmically and we know how to reignite the creative fire when it smolders. Sometimes it’s only a matter of going through the motions and being in your creative space to get back into that rhythm. Generally speaking I’m pretty good at staying fired up about my next art adventure. Right now, it’s so much harder.

My mother very recently died at the age of 93, and although losing her was not unexpected it has been unfathomable. I have written about my mother’s creative influence in the past, but what I will miss most is her laughter and her insights about humankind – as sarcastic as they often were!

Mom sharing her wisdom

So, I just have to say that it’s been a bit difficult to paint lately. Especially because I’m working on a personal subject, my first attempt at a "vanitas" painting. And vanitas paintings are a classic genre that, through symbolic elements, reminds us of the fragility of life. My composition is focused on the stages of life for a woman. Of course, since the references are my own, it centers on my mother. Although started months ago, it’s taken on a greater significance now. I hope I can do it justice.

Just setting up the composition and deciding what to include took a very long time. I must have photographed 10 or more variations of the elements – gathered, arranged and rearranged over many weeks - trying to make a decision.

So far I have drawn the “final” version three times and transferred it twice. I’ve completed the poster study and begun the 16 x 20” painting... which is going very slowly.

This is the small 5x6” poster study. It's a sort of trial run to check out composition and values. (symbolically the pocket watch, snuffed candle, antique doll's head, 1950s gloves, pearls, vintage photos, etc., all allude to the passage of time ... and relate to my mother's life)

It’s a complex painting made more challenging by my current state of creative inertia. I've had some help easing into painting practice since a group gathers in my studio creating color wheels with Todd Casey each week. We compare pigments by various brands, make charts and totally geek out on color, mixing gradations of hue, value and chroma. It’s a meditative process with a fine bunch of fun, funny and determined painters. And it's been a perfect way to keep my hand in the paint these days.

There is good news to share, as well. Some weeks ago I was interviewed by Southwest Art magazine for their feature “Artists to Watch." I was a bit anxious leading into the interview, not knowing quite what to say. Fortunately their editor, Kim Agricola, asked interesting questions about my process and my subjects. She made me comfortable and there was a lot of laughter. You can read the article online... or pick up the October issue of Southwest Art at Barnes & Noble, it's full of inspirational artwork.

"Artists to Watch" in Southwest Art magazine, October 2017

Being professionally interviewed about my artwork: that's a first for me. I think my mother would have been proud.

As always, thank you for joining me on my art journey... and my sincere appreciation for all your kind words of sympathy and support.