This week I thought about edges some and then some more. Where do I want them to be sharp and create interest, a closing off if you will of one value shape from another. Where do I want them to be soft and almost invisible where I want to viewer to softly walk into a combined shape. It is like this well executed dance across the canvas. Where is there a smooth transition or a sharp turn?
I have always been a great admirer of Carolyn Anderson's work. I look at her paintings and am just in awe of how much she says with simplification and truly powerful and effective brush strokes. Her painting Mother and Child just takes my breath away. She is a true master of edges and a great inspiration if you are looking to improve your edge work.
Winter seems to have arrived early in the bluegrass and I am rounding up some painting buddies who are brave enough to paint in 30 degree weather and capture some beautiful snow scenes.

Waiting at the Dock | oil on linen | 7"x5" | $200

It has probably reached a whopping 34 degrees here over the past week and with the mix of freezing rain and the onset of a bug I caught, I just really have not felt like painting. About 2 or 3 times a year this happens to me. So for a week and a half I have not been in to my studio, which my studio-mates kindly reminded me of.

Last night was my last night with my instructor so I mustered up the strength and went, albeit I almost fell asleep during the presentation. I talked to some fellow classmates for a bit and finally bit the bullet and started painting.

It was like a miracle. Once I started putting my brush in the solvent it was like an overwhelming feeling of something good stirring, and for an hour I completely forgot I was ill. Creating art truly does have some magic over us.

I spoke to my instructor about what to do in those painting lulls and he said 'When you get in a lull just make yourself pick up your brush and canvas and paint for 20 min. That's it. Just do a tree or something small.' I think to manage these moments better I am going to get a second set of paints and bring my small easel home so I have no excuse.
Hope everyone is staying warm!