Choose Peace

When I look at contemporary paintings, I enjoy a surprise on some level. Unexpected subject matter or the medium used in unusual ways. A unique combination of colors that gives me a pleasant jolt. Collectors of my work seek unpredictable art that they haven't seen at every turn. None of their friends has a painting of a cinder block wall, especially one painted on silk. A surprise or two to start the dinner conversation.

I love "What if..." challenges. What if a cinder block wall, made of bronze, had weathered to a fine patina? I know this sounds strange, but this is how ideas for paintings come about. When I conceived this painting, there was no figure, no content and no design elements. I focused on the shape of the blocks and surface texture. Usually this is enough. But, for this particular painting, I thought it needed one more element. Dishartened by the daily news, with all the stories of hatred, bigotry, and terror, I felt like I needed a zen moment. My monk-like figure represents peace and tranquility. Peace is something we need to choose. Sometimes it doesn't always come naturally. This painting is a reminder to always choose peace.

You Are Not Alone

Rejection is part of the normal life cycle for creative people, so learning to cope is critical to our long term survival. When that thin envelope arrives from the “call for entries” venue, we already know that the first words will be, “This year there were many strong entries, unfortunately…”

Rejection notices always arrive in thin envelopes. The thick ones are reserved for the anointed few, packed with information on delivery and pickup, etc. Has anyone ever read an entire rejection letter? Mine are usually crumpled up before I finish the first line. My initial reaction is anger, directed at the “stupid judges.” What were they looking for, anyway? Having done my due diligence by googling them, I knew exactly what they liked. I had chosen paintings specifically with them in mind. How could they have not seen the fabulousness of my entry?

The anger stage is followed by embarrassment. “Will anyone remember I entered this?” You get a knot in your stomach every time you see an ad for the event. The final insult comes when you see the show itself. You go from picture to picture thinking bitterly, “How did this get in and not mine?” You lick your wounds for a while, but hopefully you have the strength to subject yourself to it all over again. An artist's mantra is: "You are not alone."


The collectors of these two paintings live in Canada and the Netherlands. I offer a 30-day money back guarantee and free international shipping. Paintings arrive ready to hang. Please bookmark and return often. Much love.

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