the studio is alive with the sound of paint

i have been in the studio for the last three weeks, and much has occurred. the paintings have matured and i have tired. not to burst any bubbles, but it is not so much "fun," and sometimes it is not even enjoyable. it feels like very difficult work, and it is. i feel that the Work that i am doing is much bigger than me, so, it has become less important that i "enjoy" it. i receive great satisfaction and gratitude from being a part of this "project," and that sustains me. i have been "out of work-work" for several weeks, and as i invest my time in the studio, the money bleeds out. the economy is sour, and the victims are plentiful. but, the Work is getting done, and the future holds promises that are dreams today... and i am banking on this belief. the upcoming show will be on november 20th (and possibly the 21st too,) in my studio, "sponsored" by Cumberland Gallery. it will be the first time in 30 years that they have been a part of a "studio show;" i am as honored as i could possibly be... i hope that you can save the date and join us for the opening.

the eyes of john brown

lately i have spent a lot of face time with john brown, and it really does something to me that i cannot describe. you will have to come to the show in november if you want to stare him down for yourself.

back in the saddle

i haven't blogged here in months... i got involved in my photo project ( www.us365portraits.blogspot.com ) and i haven't taken the time to attend to this. now, i will do a little here... one, because of the link through my other blog.... two, because i am in the midst of putting together a show of new paintings that will open on november 20th. i am very excited about the work and the show. the gallery owner is going to let me help host the show and hang it in my studio... i believe that that is the first time that she has done that with one of her artists. i am honored, and i intend to make it a memorable show. the paintings are all 4 by 4 feet, and they are intense. death is a prominent theme in the work, and though it does not seem the smart thing to do, as far as a commercial decision is concerned... that is one of the things that feels most right about producing this body of work. i am doing this because i feel called to do it... i am not painting to sell painting, to crack into the "market," or to please my father, mother, or wife. this is so much bigger than me. thanks for stopping by.