August is the month that I
look forward to every year. It is a time when my wonderful husband goes on a
fishing trip to Canada
and leaves me to wander the house on my own. I usually have a few days to wind
down where I socialize, but I try to dedicate at least two week to myself and
my own art.
Many people do not know that
I have a master degree in sculpture from California College of Art and was a
relatively successful painter in London
for about 25 years. No, I did not manage
to make a living from my art, but I have sold over 300 painting and have a
fairly reputable resume of one person and group exhibitions. I was head of an
art department in an international school and also worked in an art gallery for
a few years.
When I arrived in San Diego, I realized
very quickly that the market for my type of work was not massive. I had trouble
finding like minds at first, but now I am so happy to have a group of friends
and colleagues who are stimulating and entertaining and loyal. I know that
sometimes I am too busy, but I have a hard time saying no to an idea that
supports artists and the arts in our community.
But these two weeks are a
particular challenge as I try to come to grips with my own art. Ideas stream
through my brain and most are dismissed. I have desires to make politically
thoughtful work at a time when I find we are in a leadership quagmire. I would like to speak about the changes
happening to my 96 year old mother. I have an idea of making a series of
portraits of muses from a project I helped with a few years ago. I have an
opportunity to work with cast glass and want to make something memorable and
unique.
I put incredible pressure on
myself and then I have just have to stop and remember to have fun. This is not
opting out but instead a way to tap into less conscious ideas. I have to have
faith that what bubbles up is meant to be.
I will miss my fabulous
husband horribly while he is gone, but I can’t wait for him to leave!
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| Four banners I created for the Passport to France event in July |
