I have always wondered how other people view the world. I can look at an image and be moved by its compelling beauty, utter simplicity, or gut-wrenching horror while another onlooker can pass by the same image with apparent oblivion.
Granted, the reverse can also be true. But still, I wonder how many of us pull over to the side of the road to watch the sunset, stop to take a deep breath of the fragrant pink honeysuckles trailing along the old wooden fence post, or notice the errant daisy struggling to grow - against all odds - through a small pavement crack near the median.
Now, I am not suggesting that we all rush out to do this, causing traffic jams for miles. But, I do think that we often dismiss the importance of these simple observances of nature at its best - or its worst.
I love creating art images. I always have.
I could never understand why the creation of art seemed like such an apparent mystery or a seemingly special gift to so many people. When asked how I "drew that" or "painted this", I would always reply that I simply recorded what I saw...whether transfering that from my visual cues or my imagination. My real task was only to move the image to the paper or canvas, because (at least for me) it already existed.
I have recently gone through my own personal rennaissiance, in that I have re-discovered the true joy and release that the creation of art provides to me. I have become a prolific painter of late, and have especially enjoyed creating both large and small landscapes splashed with color. Animals...horses in particular...are also a favorite painting subject. I enjoy both realistic and impressionisitic approaches to the challenge, and usually resolve my painting challenge via acrylic paint or mixed media.
Even more pleasing to me than the actual creative process of my art is the reaction it evokes from the viewer. To move someone emotionally by way of my paintings is truly gratifying. Of course, uplifting the human spirit would be my choice; however, even a negative reaction - when honestly felt - still trumps indifference.
For now, I will continue my evolution as a painter and an observer of nature. It is a pleasure to share my view of the world with others.
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