3/22/08

THERAPY

Painting my way out of a hole. That's how I would describe this painting. When I started it, my feelings were dark, lots of misery, plenty of self pity, I'm sure. Also remorse. Usually I don't paint if I'm not in a good mood, but this time I had to.

I painted with vigor as if I could dump my emotions into the paper if I tried hard enough. Starting with watercolor and some created textures, then adding charcoal, conte crayon, caran d'ache crayons, acrylics..... I used whatever was at hand to help 'push my emotions' out onto the painting surface.

I was so ready to rip it up. I hated the painting, (I thought.) But actually other things were coming to the surface that were the cause of my hateful feelings.

Later, looking at the painting across the room, I was amazed that it had a life and movement of its own, and a positive feeling about it, too! How it got there...where it came from??? Creating art can surely bring about a healing force. Therapy once again.

This painting along with a couple dozen more of my recent works will be in a show opening Friday night (March 28) in Middletown, Ohio's Art Center. My Wednesday morning class will also have works on display at this show. We're planning on having a great time, so if you're in the area, please join us. (See side bar for more info about the show.) Hope you can make it.

"CAVERN" Mixed Media on 80# HP Strathmore Aquarius 15 x 11"

9 comments:

Suzanne McDermott said...

I love this and your description.

Trijnie said...

Hi Sandy, Art is healing, I am sure
You made a wonderful painting. Have succes on the exhibition

Dawn said...

Nothing better then a story and painting! I love it.
Good luck with the show.

Suzanne McDermott said...

I wonder how far it is to drive to Ohio....

I meant to say that I wish you the best with the show and wish that I could drop by.

I also meant to ask if you have any tips for mixing pastel and watercolor. I'm just about to mix them and I'll bet that you've done this before...

Mineke Reinders said...

Hi Sandy, this is very beautiful. To me, it has the feeling of looking into deep water, with sunlight playing on the surface.
Good luck with your show.

Anonymous said...

Sandy,
Not only do I love your art and especially this one, but I love your honesty on the story behind your work. This one holds a special place.
Good luck this weekend at your show. I'll stop by when I return to town.
Thanks for sharing, Sandy. You're the best. ~Bonnie

Nick said...

that's killer Sandy, fantastic!!!

Ann Buckner said...

This is a very interesting painting to me. I view it as an underwater cavern that one can just glimpse, through the water. Interesting how one goes through such raw emotions and comes out with glimpses of hope and light, just like your painting!

I hope you and all your students do great at the show tomorrow night!

1000 Bad Dates said...

I love this, do you give workshops?