Painting and Showing

Some of the most fun I had this past year - in fact, one of the highlights of the year - was showing my art and having it hung, particularly at the Upstate Artists Guild gallery. But, I think perhaps I revealed myself too soon. I am not sure.

I sold one painting this year, and it was mostly a barter deal (painting for its value in beer, whiskey and cigars over time).

But it is not for reasons of commerce...or failure of commerce...that I think I should lay low, at least for 6 months. It is because I think I need to grow and expand more as a painter:

I need to experiment more.

I need to learn more (by reading, looking at art, making love, talking to people...not through formal schooing).

I need to go deeper within myself.

This is a talent that I originally found on the advent of turning 30, from which I turned away when I fell in love, got engaged, got married, and to which I did not return until fall of 2007. And I have thoroughly enjoyed it. The artistic process...whatever that is...the creative process. The organizing of materials, the notepads, the many bar napkins from which fully realized concepts emerged. But I want to nurture it. And savor it. And enjoy it. For myself.

I'm not a total recluse...I will keep my artist site. But I think for a bit, I will not submit anything for a physical showing...for a little while. And of course, I will post things here, both in progress and completed.