Why I Paint, Take Two

 

 

I paint to know. I paint to learn. I paint to understand what’s below the surface; that deep river of beingness all life possesses.

 

Be it a portrait of the land, an animal or coming to an understanding about my own, inner world, my intention is to capture the spirit of my subject.

 

As a commissioned painter, I paint pet portraits.

 

I love connecting with their pure, sweet energy as the animal shares itself with me.

But there is another side to me.

 

 

 

This side wishes to explore my inner world and the mystery.

 

 

Others read to understand the deep, spiritual mysteries. Others write.

 

But for me, the fastest way to connect with them is to paint.

 

I prefer using oil paints. I love their smell. I love the way they glide across the surface and the way I can blend the colors. I love their history. I feel when I paint with oils, I’m connecting with all those painters who have gone before me throughout the centuries.

 

Oil painting on linen, using my Robert Simmons filberts and listening to loud, rhythmic music—something like AfroCelt, MouthMusic or Kassav, makes me feel so very much alive…so in the zone…my prayer…my way of uniting with AllThatIs.

 

Have a great week, peeps!