on...........The Balancing Act.
The Balancing Act 24 x24 encausticAt the end of the summer I began playing around with oil paint again and it felt so liberating.This was the first oil painting I had done in a few years. It was an experiment with new tools, new paint, new attitude. It was scary and taking a leap of faith.
The experiment 32 x 34 oil on boardNot two weeks later, after a bit of a back story, I literally walked out of my job that I have had for 14 years. Although it was probably time for me to retire my waitress shoes, walking out before Saturday night service was not the way I had pictured my send off. It was completely out of character, slightly dramatic and kind of like a bad breakup. It was scary and taking a leap of faith.
Walking the Line 36 x 36 oil on boardDoes art follow life or does life follow art?
It has been an interesting few months. Possible opportunities to teach 2d design and drawing has me looking at books, lessons plans, exercises, and artists. I bought a new sketchbook and worked in it yesterday while I was in the studio. I have to practice what I preach right? I will be brushing up on perspective soon. It is scary and I am taking a leap of faith.
That's my story for now.
13 comments:
"Balancing Act" and "Leap of Faith" -- reflective of the precarious dance we artists/women do every day? Wonderful works, love the rhythms that are surfacing!
Sorr! was referring to "Walk the Line" (not leap of faith) -- :-)
these are stunning Lisa - they just jump and feel totally alive :)
Love the paintings. Love how they reflect the decisions and uncertainties of (your) living. I remember a time when I resigned my job as a teacher (regular pay and insurance) for my sanity. Most everyone thought I was crazy. But things worked out. My pocketbook was smaller but my life was much richer and I was a much happier person. The next few years weren't easy but I have never regretted that decision.
Lisa the work is stunning and your story is well yes a little scary but I admire you having guts.
You go girl!
waitresses walk out all the time
so you atleast did nothing too
strange in the grand vision of
things...nor was it harmful as
the owners are used to this type
of employee issue?.
I hope to see your work at the
Rosenfeld gallery again.
P.
Love the new work! For me, which came first? I'm never quite sure. I've got a new body of work that I started several months ago and just a couple of weeks ago figured out what it is about. I think that if the work we are producing is a pure effort of creative energy, and if we quiet down enough to listen, it is a reflection of things past, present and future. Good for you for putting more energy into your work - it'll pay off far more than your waitress gig!
Hi Lisa,
I love this work and the connection between your art and your life. It can't be a coincidence, but rather a reflection of the state of your mind and spirit (soul?). You're breaking out and finding new ground for yourself. That's great. Who says an art practice goes along on a level keel? it moves ahead by leaps and bounds if the artist is paying attention - to the work AND to herself!
Despite what @Pete says, it was a big deal for you to walk out - you've told me the story - and I know it was totally out of character for you. But character can't be a prison. We are not always what is expected of us, even to ourselves. Life is a total surprise and that's what keeps us waking up - and getting to the studio. Congratulations and best wishes for moving ahead!
Thanks to all of you!!
The progression of the work is wonderful-- "Walking the Line" has a beautiful narrative to it. It nourishes us all when we read of your taking the leap. It will lead to more good things for sure.
You are already doing so well Lisa, I dont think you will regret it. I can send you some ideas if you like for 2-D and drawing, I have syllabae and course outlines with specific assignments. Best of luck.
I wish you the best as you embark on this new life as a full time artist and a teacher. How thrilling and scary at the same time it must be! That's what life and art is all about! You will do quite well I suspect, your art is wonderful and rich. Goodluck and most importantly, enjoy!
I feel like I've run into a kindred spirit....what wonderful artwork.
Post a Comment