I had coffee today with a writer friend of mine and part of our conversation centered around an artwork of mine that was created in response to a very difficult time in my life. It is not a beautiful image - in fact, it is quite raw and violent. She described the work as beautiful. This surprised me as I did not think of the work as beautiful, in fact, I would not have used that word at all to describe the piece. She said that 'the beauty lies in the honesty of the work' and 'that was beautiful'.
I don't know if I have completely pondered that honesty is equivalent to beauty. There is truth to that statement. I've analyzed it with master works of art and know that art does not have to be beautiful in order to be powerful or effective. But the fact that something is honest to a certain extent, lends itself to being beautiful. Honesty is something that every artists strives for within their creativity. To not be honest is to create inferior work. Can we say that Picasso's, Guernica is beautiful? Yes - the use of the elements and principles of art and design are masterfully executed within the piece and the emotional content alone is powerful but there lies a beauty to the work even though it describes a horrific event. The same can be said for Goya's, The 3rd of May, 1808. I guess I never equated that to one of my works before.
Honesty and beauty do go hand in hand. Honesty requires us to look at our surroundings, no matter what they are, and derive the truth from it. It is so easy to diminish or temper the truth of a horrific event for protection - for ourselves or others. But to boldly state the truth of something that is difficult for us as humans to perceive, then that is where the true courage of an artist (or anyone for that matter) presents itself. I guess I would have to say then beauty exists within that moment or within that creativity. It requires us to take the good with the bad, to allow ourselves to see ourselves for what we are, what we are capable of, and then determine what we can become from it. This can spur both the good and the bad but when it spurs on the good, then we have risen from the ashes onto something much more glorious. There lies beauty, there lies truth, and there lies the human condition.
So, I'll leave you with this... Where is the beauty in your world? Can you find it in the most inordinate places? Will you be surprised by it and let it simmer in your soul? I hope so for today that happened to me!
Until next time... take care, enjoy, and G-d bless.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
December 29, 2010
I've been creating new work based on poetry and I've had a blast! It's not something entirely new but it has been a long time since I've worked this way. I've developed such an intuitive way of working that at first, working from the poetry seemed unnatural but as I meditated on the words that inspired me, the work seemed to flow out of me. The work does not have the line work that my recent work has but it is more like color fields of paint. I do have some line in some of the pieces but the other works just has planes of color within it. They are similar to my nebula pieces (of which I'm creating more of them), and I am finding that they are speaking to me and really define what I'm trying to say within the work.
And exactly what am I trying to say? That is a very good question! I've been contemplating that for awhile now as in the beginning of creating these works the imagery just flowed and I did not think too much about the concept/s behind them. Now that I've created several pieces, I wish to define what it is I am doing within the studio and bring some ideas to light.
The work is definitely inspired by Mark Rothko but it does not follow him exactly. His work was tragic, by his own definition. I'm trying to bring the relationship to fruition between myself and the paint. The push and pull of the colors (sometimes analogous and sometimes complementary) many times dictates the flow of the work and how I paint. The analogous pieces are more about beauty, serenity, and space. The depth within the work draws me in and I want to stay within it for awhile. The complementary pieces are more confrontational, more agitated. They engage me in a completely different way - more of an encounter with the colors and movement within the work. And yes, this can bring negative emotions or reactions to the work but if my work is to be honest, negative as well as positive emotions and reactions are a part of life. With the work inspired by poetry, I'm not trying to illustrate the words but convey the essence of what they are saying; to portray within color and form, an experience of what I read.
I posed a question of how does an artist portray an emotion or feeling or how does one portray in a non-literal language aspects of the human experience. That challenge to artists, especially abstract artists is great for what I am trying to do within my own work is to take my thoughts, feelings, and responses to the medium and try to bring to light the essence of my experience, the creative experience. This experience is intrinsic to all humans for we all create in one way or another. An artist puts this experience on the canvas, board, sculpture, etc. and shines a light on what it is to be human.
This process really is part of what I am as a human and an artist but it is also a faith-walk for many times I am not sure of exactly what is going to come of it but I do know that if I persist, the work will come together. This comes from the many hours of studio experience but it also comes from having the faith to continue into the unknown and bring it to light within the language of color, form, texture, movement, and line. The creative moment, the time when everything comes together is wonderful but at times, the efforts imparted to bring me to the final moment can be intimidating. For working in a way that is intangible compared to working with a definite point of departure, is downright scary at times!!! The instant that I realize that I have no idea what I'm doing or where I'm going next is, at times, paralyzing!!! The happens more often that I'd like to admit but this is where the faith comes into play. I know that I have the insight (and many time that comes from G-d, not me!!!) and ability to critique what I am doing, find my way, and continue on, or begin a new direction. Once I am back on track, the work begins to flow again. Which is quite a relief!!! I also know that if I play it safe, I destined for doom within the work for everytime I hold back, don't take the risk, the work suffers and it shows so... I continuely remind myself to stay on the edge with the work and see what happens! And hopefully, the experience I have with the work will translate to the viewer.
My desire is that when someone views the work, an experience, a true moment of union occurs when they can relate in some way to the mark-making, color, and form of the pieces. It is a moment where the spirit of the viewer connects with the spirit of my creativity. This spirit to spirit communication is the ultimate desire I have as an artist - that the viewer can come away from the work enriched, encouraged, or challenged by what they see and hopefully feel. My desire from this encounter, from this experience, is 'Yes'!
Well, that's it for now... until next time, take care, enjoy, and G-d bless!!!
And exactly what am I trying to say? That is a very good question! I've been contemplating that for awhile now as in the beginning of creating these works the imagery just flowed and I did not think too much about the concept/s behind them. Now that I've created several pieces, I wish to define what it is I am doing within the studio and bring some ideas to light.
The work is definitely inspired by Mark Rothko but it does not follow him exactly. His work was tragic, by his own definition. I'm trying to bring the relationship to fruition between myself and the paint. The push and pull of the colors (sometimes analogous and sometimes complementary) many times dictates the flow of the work and how I paint. The analogous pieces are more about beauty, serenity, and space. The depth within the work draws me in and I want to stay within it for awhile. The complementary pieces are more confrontational, more agitated. They engage me in a completely different way - more of an encounter with the colors and movement within the work. And yes, this can bring negative emotions or reactions to the work but if my work is to be honest, negative as well as positive emotions and reactions are a part of life. With the work inspired by poetry, I'm not trying to illustrate the words but convey the essence of what they are saying; to portray within color and form, an experience of what I read.
I posed a question of how does an artist portray an emotion or feeling or how does one portray in a non-literal language aspects of the human experience. That challenge to artists, especially abstract artists is great for what I am trying to do within my own work is to take my thoughts, feelings, and responses to the medium and try to bring to light the essence of my experience, the creative experience. This experience is intrinsic to all humans for we all create in one way or another. An artist puts this experience on the canvas, board, sculpture, etc. and shines a light on what it is to be human.
This process really is part of what I am as a human and an artist but it is also a faith-walk for many times I am not sure of exactly what is going to come of it but I do know that if I persist, the work will come together. This comes from the many hours of studio experience but it also comes from having the faith to continue into the unknown and bring it to light within the language of color, form, texture, movement, and line. The creative moment, the time when everything comes together is wonderful but at times, the efforts imparted to bring me to the final moment can be intimidating. For working in a way that is intangible compared to working with a definite point of departure, is downright scary at times!!! The instant that I realize that I have no idea what I'm doing or where I'm going next is, at times, paralyzing!!! The happens more often that I'd like to admit but this is where the faith comes into play. I know that I have the insight (and many time that comes from G-d, not me!!!) and ability to critique what I am doing, find my way, and continue on, or begin a new direction. Once I am back on track, the work begins to flow again. Which is quite a relief!!! I also know that if I play it safe, I destined for doom within the work for everytime I hold back, don't take the risk, the work suffers and it shows so... I continuely remind myself to stay on the edge with the work and see what happens! And hopefully, the experience I have with the work will translate to the viewer.
My desire is that when someone views the work, an experience, a true moment of union occurs when they can relate in some way to the mark-making, color, and form of the pieces. It is a moment where the spirit of the viewer connects with the spirit of my creativity. This spirit to spirit communication is the ultimate desire I have as an artist - that the viewer can come away from the work enriched, encouraged, or challenged by what they see and hopefully feel. My desire from this encounter, from this experience, is 'Yes'!
Well, that's it for now... until next time, take care, enjoy, and G-d bless!!!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
September 18, 2010
This week has given me much to think about regarding the provision of G-d. Our daughter was in the hospital this past week and it was a very trying time. Even though initially it was not a good situation for she had emergency surgery, the unexpected blessings that came forth were amazing. As trite as this may sound, times like these really put into perspective what is truly important in life and the LORD was right there with us.
While our daughter was in surgery, I found a Bible in the waiting room and opened it up to the Psalms. I knew that book would give me something to hold onto for I was very scared and unsure of the findings of the surgery. What I found gave me a profound sense of peace for my mind and soul. In Psalm 41, verses 1-3 it states: "Blessed is he who considers the poor; The LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. The LORD will preserve him and keep him alive, and he will be blessed on the earth; You will not deliver him to the will of his enemies. The LORD will strengthen him on his bed of illness; You will sustain him on his sickbed." That blew me away for I did not know that scripture. I knew at that point that she would be alright. G-d was so gracious to give me that; I am very grateful.
It was an up and down week for my daughter had was in pretty sick and not totally responding initially to the antibiotics. She ended up in the hospital for 4 days and finally started to show signs of improvement during the last night of her stay. On the day she was released, everyone was commenting on how great she looked. Thank you doctors, nurses, and thank you, Jesus.
During her stay, we were able to have many insightful conversations which probably would not have happened if this had not occurred. They were about everything... They reminded me of so many things I have taken for granted and just how important it is to let my family know just how much they are loved. I am grateful for the openness and vulnerability of my daughter; her willingness to be very real and true to many things. Hardship has a way of bringing out such discussions and for that I am grateful.
So, this week was a blessing - a difficult one, but a blessing indeed. G-d's provision for our family in so many ways was seen and experienced, I just had to share it. Until next time, take care, G-d bless, and enjoy!
While our daughter was in surgery, I found a Bible in the waiting room and opened it up to the Psalms. I knew that book would give me something to hold onto for I was very scared and unsure of the findings of the surgery. What I found gave me a profound sense of peace for my mind and soul. In Psalm 41, verses 1-3 it states: "Blessed is he who considers the poor; The LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. The LORD will preserve him and keep him alive, and he will be blessed on the earth; You will not deliver him to the will of his enemies. The LORD will strengthen him on his bed of illness; You will sustain him on his sickbed." That blew me away for I did not know that scripture. I knew at that point that she would be alright. G-d was so gracious to give me that; I am very grateful.
It was an up and down week for my daughter had was in pretty sick and not totally responding initially to the antibiotics. She ended up in the hospital for 4 days and finally started to show signs of improvement during the last night of her stay. On the day she was released, everyone was commenting on how great she looked. Thank you doctors, nurses, and thank you, Jesus.
During her stay, we were able to have many insightful conversations which probably would not have happened if this had not occurred. They were about everything... They reminded me of so many things I have taken for granted and just how important it is to let my family know just how much they are loved. I am grateful for the openness and vulnerability of my daughter; her willingness to be very real and true to many things. Hardship has a way of bringing out such discussions and for that I am grateful.
So, this week was a blessing - a difficult one, but a blessing indeed. G-d's provision for our family in so many ways was seen and experienced, I just had to share it. Until next time, take care, G-d bless, and enjoy!
Sunday, September 5, 2010
September 5, 2010
Memory... It is something I cherish. I'm watching someone very close to me go through the season of life where memory is lost or in the process of fading. We joke and laugh sometimes about it when it involves minor things but when the reality of it hits, when it pertains to important things, it is no laughing matter. It is hard to watch and experience for it means that the memories of childhood, adolescent, and even adulthood are fading and lost. The experiences that make up who I am and what I am, the experiences that make up who this person is are forgotten as if they never existed. That is difficult to handle at times... for it means that the memories that we both cherish can not be shared and relived. The bonding that occurs during those times are lost, never to return again. That is sad.
Seasons of life occur. Change is inevitable. But this change I don't like and I can't change it. It is a season that must be endured with love, compassion, and acceptance. But the memories that are created now only last for a short time and maybe that's enough. To experience each other and enjoy each other in the moment for that's really all we have in this life. The moment of 'Now'. Learning to live in the current moment, experiencing life to its fullest no matter when or where I am. This is what I'm learning through this season. Will I be able to do this all the time? Probably not for the cares of this world will more than likely trample over this revelation but the more often I can keep it in my thoughts and prayers, the more likely I'll be able to appreciate the 'Now' especially when it comes to loved ones.
So the memories will be short lived. The experience of 'Now' will have to endure in my memory for the both of us. And that's ok, at least one of us can recall and relive them and use that memory to bring a bonding that is even closer than before. It might eventually be onesided and the pain that it will bring cannot stop and hinder that bonding or memory for me. Knowing that I am housing the memory for the two of us must be enough and my actions must not become contrived or bitter. I pray I remember this if it gets to the point of non-memory. The 'Now' must be what I cherish. The 'Now' must be what I seek and live with pertaining to my loved one. The 'Now' must be enough. It is what I have, nothing more, nothing less. It is my portion for this season of life.
Therefore, I need to take this portion and accept it for what it is. I can fill this season with memories and cherish them. I can learn to be content with what I have for it is within the moment of 'Now' and that is what I've been given. And I must learn to be grateful for it.
So until next time, take care, enjoy the 'Now', and G-d bless.
Seasons of life occur. Change is inevitable. But this change I don't like and I can't change it. It is a season that must be endured with love, compassion, and acceptance. But the memories that are created now only last for a short time and maybe that's enough. To experience each other and enjoy each other in the moment for that's really all we have in this life. The moment of 'Now'. Learning to live in the current moment, experiencing life to its fullest no matter when or where I am. This is what I'm learning through this season. Will I be able to do this all the time? Probably not for the cares of this world will more than likely trample over this revelation but the more often I can keep it in my thoughts and prayers, the more likely I'll be able to appreciate the 'Now' especially when it comes to loved ones.
So the memories will be short lived. The experience of 'Now' will have to endure in my memory for the both of us. And that's ok, at least one of us can recall and relive them and use that memory to bring a bonding that is even closer than before. It might eventually be onesided and the pain that it will bring cannot stop and hinder that bonding or memory for me. Knowing that I am housing the memory for the two of us must be enough and my actions must not become contrived or bitter. I pray I remember this if it gets to the point of non-memory. The 'Now' must be what I cherish. The 'Now' must be what I seek and live with pertaining to my loved one. The 'Now' must be enough. It is what I have, nothing more, nothing less. It is my portion for this season of life.
Therefore, I need to take this portion and accept it for what it is. I can fill this season with memories and cherish them. I can learn to be content with what I have for it is within the moment of 'Now' and that is what I've been given. And I must learn to be grateful for it.
So until next time, take care, enjoy the 'Now', and G-d bless.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Sunday, August 15, 2010
August 15, 2010
For those of you who haven't seen my thesis show (last year), here is a video of it on youtube!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6qqMvbBLf4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6qqMvbBLf4
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
August 13, 2010
Taking a break from teaching and planning for a few days - feels good to relax. I've been busy in the studio working on a series of new paintings without the object. Yes, a new direction for me but a good one.
My friend has a blog that speaks about the 'other side of through'. The 'through' part can be tough. The barriers, walls, circumstances, devices that come up and keep us from pushing through to the other side can be enormous if not crippling. But pushing through is what makes us stronger, more determined, and clearer of our purpose. Whether it is a life changing situation or working through a lesser problem, the pushing through to the other side is what makes us victorious. So, what's the 'other side of through' for you? Do you feel that it's within your grasp or is it far away? There are things in my life that I'm still waiting for the other side to appear but then again, I've been through enough to know that the other side does come. I need to be open to the possibility that arises when it shows up - or at least recognize it.
Relating this to painting (which may seem trivial to other situations but it's where I'm at right now), the 'other side of through' was an experience in finding a new voice. I was almost afraid to allow the process to complete itself. I was trying to control it too much and creatively that means death. Only through the voices of trusted artists did I see what I was doing and am grateful for the voices of criticism and challenge. I like the new paintings and am excited for the new possibilities that will arise. So thank you, my friends for your voices helping me see the 'other side of through' creatively and also to see it in my life. I'm forever grateful.
Until next time, take care, push through, and G-d bless.
My friend has a blog that speaks about the 'other side of through'. The 'through' part can be tough. The barriers, walls, circumstances, devices that come up and keep us from pushing through to the other side can be enormous if not crippling. But pushing through is what makes us stronger, more determined, and clearer of our purpose. Whether it is a life changing situation or working through a lesser problem, the pushing through to the other side is what makes us victorious. So, what's the 'other side of through' for you? Do you feel that it's within your grasp or is it far away? There are things in my life that I'm still waiting for the other side to appear but then again, I've been through enough to know that the other side does come. I need to be open to the possibility that arises when it shows up - or at least recognize it.
Relating this to painting (which may seem trivial to other situations but it's where I'm at right now), the 'other side of through' was an experience in finding a new voice. I was almost afraid to allow the process to complete itself. I was trying to control it too much and creatively that means death. Only through the voices of trusted artists did I see what I was doing and am grateful for the voices of criticism and challenge. I like the new paintings and am excited for the new possibilities that will arise. So thank you, my friends for your voices helping me see the 'other side of through' creatively and also to see it in my life. I'm forever grateful.
Until next time, take care, push through, and G-d bless.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Mar. 14, 2010
Well, now it's really been awhile since I've written - so sorry about that. Things have been very busy - good - but busy. I'm very excited because I'll be exhibiting in the Enso Gallery (above Space Gallery on Santa Fe) beginning in April. So if you're in Denver, check it out!!!
I'm working on a new series of works without the object and it's been interesting how much I came to depend on the object. With it, I had a given focal point and now, without it, I must create that for myself. It seems very obvious but considering I've been using the object for so long, I had forgotten it. Funny how that works sometimes. The things that are right in front of you are hard to see at times.... Hmmmmm.....
It's been a fun journey though, because I'm relearning painting and drawing. I'm encorporating both within the work (still encaustic) and it's been a blast. I did have one jarring happening in the studio.... I wasn't able to get into work for about 3 weeks and found that my rhythm was so interrupted that it was hard to create. It took me awhile to find my rhythm again which got me thinking on how much I depend on my studio practice to keep me in rhythm. In fact, it keeps me whole - I really must create - I truly depend on it. What I did learn was that even though I was out of practice (it's funny how 3 weeks gets you out of practice) I had to rely on my intuition and memory to create. I had to trust myself which at first I doubted. Isn't it weird that it can happen even after 30 years of creating???
That's the exciting part of creating especially if you're pushing yourself, pushing your boundries, and pushing your artistic limits. I try to challenge myself to keep the work fresh and not contrived. The last thing I want to do is rely on a formula. I do try and work in a series in order to keep pushing the possibilities but as soon as it becomes routine, I'll change things around to keep it from being mundane. It's important for me to explore all of the possibilities in order to truly know what's available to me as an artist. But when I'm exploring new territory, new opportunities, it really becomes a faith walk - a walk that I must take in order to learn new things and see new possibilities. It is also a walk that allows me to rely on my reservoir of knowledge - one that has been filled with years of experience and one that has sustained me during times of questioning and doubt. It is also a reservoir in which G-d has poured His abundant grace and mercy that enables me to create! For that, I am eternally grateful!
So that's what's been happening lately... good things so far! I can't complain. So until next time, take care, God bless, and enjoy!
I'm working on a new series of works without the object and it's been interesting how much I came to depend on the object. With it, I had a given focal point and now, without it, I must create that for myself. It seems very obvious but considering I've been using the object for so long, I had forgotten it. Funny how that works sometimes. The things that are right in front of you are hard to see at times.... Hmmmmm.....
It's been a fun journey though, because I'm relearning painting and drawing. I'm encorporating both within the work (still encaustic) and it's been a blast. I did have one jarring happening in the studio.... I wasn't able to get into work for about 3 weeks and found that my rhythm was so interrupted that it was hard to create. It took me awhile to find my rhythm again which got me thinking on how much I depend on my studio practice to keep me in rhythm. In fact, it keeps me whole - I really must create - I truly depend on it. What I did learn was that even though I was out of practice (it's funny how 3 weeks gets you out of practice) I had to rely on my intuition and memory to create. I had to trust myself which at first I doubted. Isn't it weird that it can happen even after 30 years of creating???
That's the exciting part of creating especially if you're pushing yourself, pushing your boundries, and pushing your artistic limits. I try to challenge myself to keep the work fresh and not contrived. The last thing I want to do is rely on a formula. I do try and work in a series in order to keep pushing the possibilities but as soon as it becomes routine, I'll change things around to keep it from being mundane. It's important for me to explore all of the possibilities in order to truly know what's available to me as an artist. But when I'm exploring new territory, new opportunities, it really becomes a faith walk - a walk that I must take in order to learn new things and see new possibilities. It is also a walk that allows me to rely on my reservoir of knowledge - one that has been filled with years of experience and one that has sustained me during times of questioning and doubt. It is also a reservoir in which G-d has poured His abundant grace and mercy that enables me to create! For that, I am eternally grateful!
So that's what's been happening lately... good things so far! I can't complain. So until next time, take care, God bless, and enjoy!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)