Monday, August 18, 2008

A simply perfect day making art with friends...


My dear friend Marilyn invited me, along with my other dear friend Laura, to her house for a day of art, lunch and conversation last Friday, and it was just what I needed. I've really been in an artistic funk this summer, and there's nothing like being surrounded by enthusiastic and artistic friends to motivate me. We began with coffee and a leisurely visit in Marilyn's sun room, eventually retreated to her art studio and then enjoyed a scrumptious salad that was as much a work of art as Marilyn's inedible creations. There are wonderful touches of Marilyn and her art in every room of her home -- altered vintage birdhouses, distressed furniture pieces and great flea market finds among them.

Here is a glimpse of the technique that Marilyn taught us that day, which she calls "the big dark." She is currently teaching this class at the Albany Art Room, so I will not reveal the secrets of the technique here, but it was a truly fun and freeing way of painting, and I'll be playing with this technique again soon.

As most of my readers know, this summer has marked a time of transition and change for me, and I am still navigating it all. I feel a bit adrift at times, and I just haven't been able to create a lot of art lately. I am not pushing it, as I have found that forcing it never works. Instead, I am busying myself with my home, friends and family, and I fully expect the inspiration and art will return in their own good time. When I tell friends and other artists about my dilemma, the feedback is interesting. Some find that periods of change and stress help their art -- it's a place for them to escape to. This makes sense to me, but it's unfortunately not the way I am wired. I can't seem to "get lost in my art" when my brain is working furiously about too many other things.

But this day spent with friends reminds me that even though I have lost my way a little and am adjusting to new routines, I still love creating, and I'll find my way back to it.

6 comments:

Laura said...

It was a "perfect day with friends", Kerri! Great fun!!

DJ said...

That technique looks really cool! I find that I can be MUCH more motivated when I'm around other artistic people.

Lorri said...

Wow, that looks like a Perfect Day! I just messaged Marilyn and said I wished I lived next door - would have loved to have joined you talented ladies :) Well done on all that beautiful art you created.

Patti G. said...

Kerri, oh how I wish I could have been sitting with you girls!!!!!! What fun! Your product from art play looks fantastic AND of course, I am sure the time with friends is even more treasured!
Sending hugs,Patti

Anonymous said...

In case this is a duplicate (I'm experiencing some Blogger issues)...I'll keep it short. The point of my previous comment was that I understand, wish you many good things, and send you HUGS!

(I'm just like you when my brain/heart is occupied -- can't do anything very creative!)

ArtPropelled said...

Yes you will find your way back in your own time as you say. One morning you will wake up and think "I'm back!"....then everyone better watch out!I love the art you created during your fun day. Pity you can't divulge more.