For roughly the past 9 months or so I decided to try an experiment. I had wondered what would happen to my artwork if I wasn't pressured to sell. Would I find new enjoyment or a new style of passion in painting? Don't get me wrong, painting has always been relaxing for me... I love every bit of the process. The part that was getting to me is sharing every part of me. To make that a bit clearer, it isn't that I share every detail of my life... but, in a part that truly I don't well understand, my art work defines who I am. Somehow I feel they become an open book for all, which sometimes can be difficult for a somewhat private person.
I took a part time job working at a home with elderly residents. I really enjoy the people. I love knowing that I can add a happy moment to a someones long day just by being myself. It is the schedule that is getting to me though. I only work at 'the home' roughly 3 days a week, but still, being mom, secretary, taxi driver, cook etc... gets to be just a tad too much with trying to paint and blog etc...on top. Plus, I am anxiously wanting to get some painting projects finished so I can move on to the next.
The results are in, I am thinking it is time to move on, and take the best parts with. I need to focus on what needs to be done, prioritize without drowning. As part of my Minnesota Initiative Arts Grant this year I need to work on roughly 20 new paintings for a solo show as well as prepare for the
Powderhorn Art Fair in August..
I am currently working on some commission pieces. I thought I would put a few of pieces up for auction to reassure myself that life will be ok without a 'regular' paycheck.
Repose tells my story
well.
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'Repose' 9x12 inch oil on linen panel (click image to zoom) |