the whys of artmaking

the other evening, a group of practicing artists met to discuss favorite topics and drink favorite beverages.  the subject arose, "why do we make the art that we make?".  it is questionable whether we should even ask ourselves this, but because the door was open, most of us made an attempt to stumble in.  very interesting how every one of us stuttered along.  we didn't want to hear cliches or delusions of grandeur, which narrowed the field significantly.  just a simple explanation would do.  who knew it would be so difficult and that we would leave without one answer to tuck away.  though the promise of more pondering is appealing...

bellingham art walk

always a good evening - especially in the summer - rambling along the downtown art walk.  artists that have recently moved to the area, students not yet graduated, and long-time resident artists who manage to find venues that keep their work in the public eye.  making contact with other artists and a night of chatting in favorite galleries is just the salve to a day in the studio.

previous work

drawing is bliss

drawing bliss

last night was one of those great evenings because I finally got myself to the drawing group, run superbly by Ruthie V, and experienced after many years, 2 1/2 hours of drawing bliss! it wasn't easy (I've lost my fingers and toes acumen!) but it reminds me of the importance of keeping the hand and eye in good practice. also noticed that I continue to draw in the same "style" without any preconceived notions. it just comes out that way, for better or for worse. and no matter how small I started, the figure kept drifting off the page.

ok, time to begin.....