It's Valentine's Day, it should be a happy, love-filled day with heart-shaped boxes of chocolate (I would choose dark chocolate). Got valentine's sent off to my Mom, sisters, kids, etc. But mostly I'm thinking about one person in my life who is worn out, tired, beat down. Life throws most people curve balls, I know. That is the way life is. I believe this person will get better, and I cannot say enough good things about the truly kind people who are helping. For myself, some comfort comes from my painting...thinking about what I want to paint, what I'm working on now, the colors and textures and motion of putting the paint on the surface to create something new. Somehow, watching a loved one suffering makes me think that I will be pushed further, to discover a better, more creative way to paint, maybe even a way that will touch others and help them face their difficulties. I want my paintings to do some good...to help others...to make a difference.
I have been working on my Paris series for a couple of years now. I will continue to do some more here and there, but I will be focusing mostly on a new series of the Pacific Northwest city I have been living in for over the past year and a half. I have started with a flower shop downtown, A New Leaf, and it's picturesque gift of what a flower shop should look like with flowers spilling out onto the sidewalk. Enjoy!
I'm in a very temporary slump at the moment. Haven't painted for a month or so, but I'll start up again soon. Things get in the way...computer addiction, responsibilities, laziness, etc., I shouldn't say "get in the way" because I'm glad I can take care of family members who need help, not to mention the cat needs insulin shots. I failed at checking his blood glucose levels. He's got a type-A personality and I don't want to go to the doctor for antibiotics
I am not a blogger--I think I'll stop for now unless I get overwhelming comments to keep blogging. Unlikely, highly unlikely.
I've been working on two paintings. One is a self-portrait. I'm using an old passport photo because the face, my face, is neutral looking (whatever that means), the light is good, and I didn't want to insult anyone. Part way done with it--sort of impressionistic so far. The other painting is of a scene in the Fairhaven District of Bellingham--a special place for me and my husband--ever hear of "Toad Hall"? And I don't mean the one in "The Wind in the WIllows." Lots of detail in this one. I'll post it when I get it copied in a size where I can scan it (and when I'm done with it).
My favorite artists are Edward Gordon (Germany), Michael Parkes (Spokane), and Rene (Netherlands). I find myself saying to myself, "Thank goodness I have my painting!" That's how important it has become. Sometimes I think "What if I'd started painting seriously 30 years ago?" Then I dismiss that thought and tell myself that I'm so happy that I'm painting NOW!!
I would like to be more of a blogger, but I'm not. Maybe if I practice and try to write something more often.
I added a pirate ship to one of my paintings--not quite done yet. Also did a painting of my mother-in-law's farm house where she grew up. The house burned down in the 60's and another house was built on the site. She turned 91 recently so the painting was her birthday present. She was happy. Not sure that I need a blog on here, but thought I'd try it for fun. If you are checking out my website, feel free to leave comments about my artwork. Two artists that I admire are Michael Parkes of Spokane and Edward Gordon of Germany. Check out their work.
So I've been painting a little over two years. I've never been very good at finishing projects (my kitchen--3 or 4 years now!), so when I started painting (seriously painting) I promised myself I would keep going and see where things went. Well, I felt that I was getting better, and I discovered that I had finally (I think) figured out what to do when I grew up.
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February 2015
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