Influence and Inspiration of old friends!

Ok, so lets be real here, I am probably the worst blogger in the universe. I fully admit that keeping up with this blog is one of my short comings. It's ok though because I keep thinking about it and one day aspire to get to the point where I am making posts at least once a week. We have to make goals that are attainable right? Having said that, I have been painting a bit and am quite happy (at times) with my progress. I will be posting some images of my paintings so that my progress is fully visible. Not only for me but for those who are interested.

Did you notice the title of this blog post? Well, last week, I had the pleasure of re-connecting with some good friends from college whom I lost touch with many years ago. I was so happy to speak with both of them, they made me laugh just as much as they always used to. The memories made with them were very special to me and I will always cherish them. What the heck does any of this have to do with my blog and art you ask? I will tell you. Both of them, not one, but both, told me that they took a look at my blog. (yikes)  Much to my dismay, I had to explain my grandiose intentions and also confess that I was a blog slacker. The artwork part is getting done, but it's just not making it's way to the blog. Conundrum!! I mentioned to my good friends, probably in throws of happiness and glee from having such fun and wonderful conversations about family and 25 years of catching up, that I was going to be better about making posts since there are people out there who might be looking. So here we are! NOW, onto the art!

These first few paintings precede what I call the "Breakthrough" painting which is also here.

Working with Acrylics has posed to be fun, confusing, satisfying, puzzling, frustrating and just plain enjoyable. I am generally happy with what has been happening, but I am still trying to get my bearings and fall into a groove. I think that is slowly happening. The last painting out of the three encompasses some elements that wish to continually incorporate in my paintings.

This is the what I call the Breakthrough painting. It's bitter sweet because this was sold. I painted this at the 2011 Battle of the Canvas and it is definitely the direction that I want to move in with my paintings. Color, layers, type, texture, etc. I know that I need to work larger because I need more space to move around the surface. My marks are large and expressive, small doesn't work as well for me.

Yesterday, I participated in another Art Battle. I feel like these battles are helping me to become comfortable with acrylic paints. Because they are timed, I don't have the luxury of pondering too much about what to do. I need to be direct and work with a sense of confidence. This is the result. I must note and give a shout out to Stephen Haigh because initially this was a collaboration. I finished it up and think that I made it my own.

I am excited about my next paintings and future posts! Be sure to check back and see what's new!