Tell the Story

It is ironic that while a visual artist is in the business of producing images he or she is endeavoring to grasp something that is quite elusive: something that dwells in an invisible world.  The portrayal of emotions, ideas and desires is the necessary target; the painted image is merely the vehicle to express this invisible idea. 

Isn’t it interesting how autos are depicted in television commercials; radiantly happy individuals racing up winding picturesque mountain roads with the wind blowing through their hair.  You won’t see them stuck in traffic on a sweltering summer day or thumping down a road of pot-holes after the spring thaw. 

They’re not selling the car but rather they’re selling a romantic vision of you enjoying what the car might possibly be able to offer.  And people ultimately buy, not the car but the vision.

In a like manner, viewers are not captivated by the paint on a canvas.  They are captivated by what it represents to them.  The painting could be a financial investment, a status symbol or a good color match for the décor of a room.  It could be reminiscent of a familiar place or person.

This is perhaps why it has been so difficult for me as an artist to find subjects to paint, why I agonize over the composition or why I go for extended periods without painting anything.  I search for some subject that will resonate within me.  But, I now believe that this approach is flawed. 

Everything in this world has a story to tell, for all things are unique and beautiful in their own right.  It becomes my job to search out what that message is and to convey it to the best of my ability.  Hopefully, even with my limited ability I will be able to grasp a glimmer of its story. 

C.M. with drum and beater

You see, I am merely a storyteller and colored pigments are my words.  My ultimate goal therefore is to tell a story in a way that will move the viewer; it is in essence that I improve and become the best storyteller that I can be.

MC visited us again last week and graced us with stories and smiles.  He sported his kilt and played the drum.  By the way, MC is an artist himself.  He makes a nifty little aid which helps you judge values (the Value Viewer).  This is a link to his site.

Ah - The Good Old Summertime

Where does the time go?  Summer arrived and ushered in a slew of distractions.  Distractions are always present in one form or another but sometimes it seems that they team up for a concentrated assault. 

I have been suffering a dry spell as of late.  It is tough to stir up enthusiasm and dive into a project.   The blog goes without a post.  Production is near a standstill.  I envy those dedicated souls who can work through any obstacles and paint every day in spite of them. 

But I won’t give up.  Sooner or later I’ll pry distractions’ nasty fingers from my throat and find myself painting with passion once more. 

The other day I found myself in front of a live model; finally a break in the lull!  Is the worm turning?  Will things now be getting back to normal?  What a joy it was to be back at the easel.  The drawing flowed effortlessly.  It was one of those happy times when you watch in amassment as the drawings appear on their own right in front of you.

I suppose it is similar to how golfers relate to their sport.  They speak of the disheartening anguish they feel hitting 19 sub-par shots in a row.  Then, that 20^th shot rockets perfectly off the club head and lands in the middle of the fairway.  The euphoria they feel will carry them through the upcoming pitfalls until that next perfect shot. 

Oil on board  4" X 5"

Will drawing always be an emotional roller coaster for me like it is for the golfers or will practice eventually bring me to a point where I am virtually always in charge?  I have my doubts.  I think real life points toward the roller coaster scenario. 

A friend once wrote me “but for great sadness there can be no great joy.”  If we carry this idea to art we could say “but for great failures there can be no great success.”  Yes I’m sure that in one way or another, in the long term, it will be a great ride.  Tighten your seat belt and hang on; the coaster is rolling!