I always enjoy the fresh start of a new work of art. I feel like a cliff-diver poised over the raging waters far below. It's exhilarating to make that first mark and JUST GET STARTED. All I hope to convey in the painting is pulsing in my thoughts ready to be developed. As I engage in the creative process, I am very aware that I am not really in control. Ideas emerge and changes are made that seem to be above and beyond what I feel capable of or originally thought. Sometimes when struggling with an aspect of a painting, an idea or solution will seem to emerge out of nowhere and I, amazed, think, "Where did that come from?" Before beginning a new work, I do intentionally take time to think through what is the essence of my subject and how do I convey that to the viewers. What is it about this subject that has grabbed my attention? What is going on beneath the visual surface? Is there something more than meets the eye that speaks to life? And I would be remiss if I left out a critical element of preparation....I pray. I ask God for help. Like the great composer J.S. Bach who signed all his music "Solo Dei Gloria" (for the glory of God alone), I want my work to bring glory to Him. If that is achieved, then the viewers of my work will also benefit from the work as well.
Happy NEW Year to you! And I'll be back with NEW updates on the NEW painting!
