Blog

The time seems to fly by these days, and it is time for some attention to the blog.

After some extended time in the lowcountry, I'm heading north with a sizeable stock of new paintings created on this visit. Landscapes of the Charleston area of South Carolina, even a portrait of a "cheeseburger in Paradise".  I found my old strengths in painting this venue, and learned some new innovations. Mostly, it was simply pleasure to do what I do. 

I was listening to Matthew McConaughey's weekly podcast, and he was speaking of the difference between "happiness" and "joy".  He asserted that happiness was based on outcome of effort. But the essence of joy was action, without regard for outcome. It made me think about how I view creating art, was I experiencing "joy"? I believe I am.

When I paint, as I was during my time away, I had no goal, or market for the work, in mind. I was painting for the pleasure of using my skills. Some were strong reflections of what I was viewing along the lowcountry. Others, not so strong. But each brought a smile, taught a lesson, or sparked a memory.  They brought joy.

What will happen when I am back at my home in Pennsylvania?  There is work to be done to meet requests for pieces, ceramics to make, seasonal art, a series of impressionist works to continue. While I am directing effort to these creations, I hope I can create them in the spirit of joy. Doing so takes their creation to a higher level of being one with the beautiful things they are. I like that..