2017 is almost here... Time for some reflection and new ideas!
I Can See Clearly Now, 44 x 44
What's it all about? That question sums up the painting journey for me. And it has been about
many different things: learning to capture the subject matter visually; finding my own approach to expression in paint; evolving the IDEA; growing bored with myself and my ideas; finding new
inspiration; and finally, continually working to release limitations!
This is funny because it is so TRUE. Many of us limit our best instincts with too much self-critique, surely the invisible "fence" in the studio. In my workshops, I am able to verbalize these painting frustrations, but often don't follow my own advice to escape them (i.e., use big brushes, set a timer, paint more, care less, socialize more, get outside, get away from have-to's, discover want-to's).
SO ... 2017 will be my year of putting joy and happiness on the canvas. No longer will I paint roses, or children or Paris street scenes, but instead light and joy and color will be my subjects.
I'm going to push it, exaggerate the light, and savor the experience. Painting alla prima (in one session) is the ticket for the likes of me. Otherwise, it's a private journey into hours of corrections, over-thinking and often over-working -- UGH.
Meanwhile, 2016 has been a stellar year...fun painting trips to Maine and Provence, lots of workshops with many fabulous and inspiring participants, and personal growth in my own work.
2016, alas, was also the year that the art community lost Charles Movalli, a painterly painter who inspired me and many others with his work and his wisdom.
"It can't look like you've worked hard and long, even if you have. A painting should be done quickly with both your intellect and your nerves. When they give out, stop," Charles Movalli
Charles Movalli, Villefranche
"The greatest temptation and danger is to rely on previous solutions and thus paint the same picture for the rest of your life, "
Charles Movalli
I'm sending along a petite gallery of paintings done since I last blogged, and lots of great wishes for a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!
Blondie, 10 x 8
A Glimpse of Les Murets, 12 x 9
Of Petals from Some Magic Rose, 48 x 36
Yes Way, Rose´, 9 x 7
Workshop Demo, 14 x 11
I hope 2017 is a stellar year for you! You have inspired so many with your works and words. Thanks for sharing these quotes from Movalli. Needed to hear as I gear up to start back painting into the new year. All the very best wishes for you my sweet and mucho talented friend!
ReplyDeleteBack to you, Carol! I hear so many words of praise for your teaching, and of course your beautiful, bold work! BOLD is IT, going forward...love to you....xoxo
ReplyDeleteLucky me - I woke up this dreary morning only to find a gift of sunshine and freedom in my Inbox!!! You words, and simply who you are, are so inspiring and a wonderful way to begin the new year. Your work, as always, beautiful, loose, and fresh, and the cartoon, well, that speaks all too clear to my heart! Thank you, Nancy Franke!! Many blessings to you in 2017!
ReplyDeleteDebi! How sweet! I'd love to see you, girl! You are a beam of sunshine and it shows in your work too....Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteLove to see you too!! Will be on lookout for opportunity!💜
DeleteYou are truly inspirational. This post arrived at a perfect time.Thank you!
ReplyDeletePRETTY COOL!!!!!!
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