The Ones That Got Away
Baladi Grapes
Baladi Grapes
Farm
Farm
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint Oil
Family Night
Family Night
The Painting A Day movement that swept the internet art world a few
years ago transformed the lives of many an artist, including mine. Made
famous by oil painter Duane Keiser, the concept was to paint a small
work in one sitting every day. It was a great way to practice skills,
explore new techniques, and define one's style. It worked. Although I
did not follow the practice exactly as prescribed, I produced more art
and grew more as an artist, and discovered more about my artself during
the year I tried it than at any other time in my life.
I discovered that I loved a square format, that oils were my thing, and
that I preferred nostalgic themes. I found that I preferred to zero-in
on one or two items in my still life paintings rather than grouping
items, as if I were painting a portrait. Unfortunately, I also
discovered that if I were going to sell or give an artwork away, I
should keep a record of who it went to. After all, a painting's story
is not finished when it leaves my hands. My collectors are also a part
of that story. Thus I now keep track of all my art.
Just for fun, here were some that got away from me.
"Baladi Grapes," painted from life, went with me to an art and craft
show. Another artist, a jewelry maker, admired it repeatedly. When we
were packing up after the show and the painting hadn't sold, I traded
with her for a bracelet I liked.
"Farm," painted from imagination, was given to a retiring music teacher
who I did not know well but who was being honored at an end-of-year
music teachers' bash. I happened to have it with me out in the car and
went out to retrieve it when I saw everyone giving her gifts. It just
felt like the right thing to do.
"Peppermint Oil," painted from life, is an exception. It sold on Ebay
auction. I just didn't get a really accurate image of it. Thankfully, I
know the collector, so I can go back and photograph it properly if I
choose to make the drive.
"Family Night," a functional chess board, was gifted to the Chess Club
at the elementary school where I did my student teaching. The last time
I visited, no one knew where it was.
I know now that as a professional, I need to keep records of where my
art flies off to, whether it's sold or given away. All gallery advisers
recommend this strongly. I will comply with that advice because it's
sound business practice and because it honors people. Just know that if
I give a gift, then it is exactly that...a gift...no strings attached,
no micro-managing afterward, no excessive emotional attachment,...just
giving something that gave me pleasure so someone else might enjoy.
I would love to hear from you. Please share your thoughts about
whatever artwork moved you. If you know of someone who might enjoy as
well, please feel free to copy/paste https://dalehousemurals.net/ and
share by email or to your favorite social media.
scan0021
Orange Slices: Oil on Canson paper.
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