This is my first journal entry in years… What have I been up to? In case any one is looking, I will take some time to explain what’s going on with me now. Right now, I’m sitting at the computer having a glass of wine, listening to Seether, and contemplating what’s next in my life. I’m not sure if anyone has noticed, but I haven’t been able to do much new art lately. In order to pay the bills, I do carpentry, and I’ve become absolutely swamped with work. I haven’t had as much time to draw. So lately, I’ve decided to submit more of the work I’ve done as a carpenter… Decks, trim work, etc. But my love for art keeps nagging. I really need to draw. So… I’m sitting here planning, making goals, dreaming once again. I need a studio.
I’ve put together some thoughts about my own philosophy concerning my art. Sort of an artist’s statement. I have spent quite a bit of time in the crossroads district of Kansas City. This is an area of downtown full of galleries. There must be 30 of 40 of them, and if you go at the right time, it’s full of people looking at and discussing art, eating and drinking wine or beer, listening to music, etc. I’ve been able to meet some great people, and collect lots of information about the art world. I’m hoping to get my foot in the door somewhere. So… I’ve been working on this “artist’s statement” . Here’s what I have so far
I’m not sure if you could consider my art photorealism/hyperrealism or not. It is impressive to see a drawing that looks like a black and white photo, but I believe there has to be more to it than that. I find great satisfaction in drawing with great detail. It is important to me to bring out small intricacies that would otherwise go unnoticed. Although, I believe it’s equally important to capture the essence of the subject… its inner presence. There are many great examples of art that are more loose and free, that accomplish what I want to accomplish with my art, so it isn’t all about accuracy. I love technical accuracy, but to me, it’s more important for the viewer to be able to relate. To understand, and be stirred emotionally. Not unlike a great poem, people should be able to feel the meaning of the work. When people see my art, I want them to be first drawn to it by its technical aspects, but then to be able to feel the emotion or the passion. To be reminded of lost memories. To feel joy or sadness. Contentment, or restlessness. Anger, bitterness, desire, love, and loss. So many emotions. When they consider the work, the technical accuracy, the subject, expression, body language, the contrast of light and dark, It’s more than just graphite or charcoal on paper. It’s more than just a meticulously rendered copy of a photograph. It’s an expression of something deeply personal to each individual that views it. Maybe a reminder to live… As Picasso once said, “Art washes from the soul the dust of every day life”
I’m excited to get back to drawing again in the near future. Because work is going well, I will be buying a new camera soon as well. I can’t wait. One of my goals and dreams is to be able to photograph my own subjects. I believe many of the same emotions I mentioned above can also be captured on camera, and used as inspiration for my art. I’m looking forward to seeing what I can create.
Also, I’m planning a trip to Idaho next summer. I love the mountains (would love to have a home there), and look forward to seeing the images I will be able to capture.
I hope everyone is well. Thanks for watching… and faving. Keep creating amazing art
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