American Quixotic, New Progress

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The Look of the Madman


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Work in Progress: American Quixotic

I've always wanted to do a "Don Quixote" piece and have decided to capture him right before his mind totally goes, as he is surrounded by his books. As a nod to my current employment status, I wanted to dress him in more modern garb...boxers, a bathrobe, a t-shirt, kind of in tribute to "the Dude" in the Big Lebowski. When this is done, the ground will be littered with stacks of books.

Before I started reading the book last June, I always wondered whether the man was mad or just perceived as mad...Cervantes clarifies that he was indeed mad. I want to get him at that moment...right before he goes over.

New Painting....and Chili

Yesterday was my first full day aware that my time as a state worker is over. I went to work in the a.m. and then left at 12:15 (I am 30 hours of time I need to burn or lose). I picked up some groceries at the supermarket across from where I live and made chili. And finished this painting, as a housewarming gift for a friend.

Cabin in the Woods




Chili, with a Sierra Nevada Stout base and a shot of Hudson Valley Bourbon.

Liberation - Bureaucracy-Style

"Dear Mr. McLain: Effective March 5, 2008 close of business, your services as a Research Associate for the Council on Children and Family Services, Item #04302 are no longer needed."

And with that first paragraph, a gracious follow up paragraph and a very gracious meeting with the associate commissioner of human resources (with our counsel present), my 12 year gig as a political appointee in the State of New York began its final two weeks.

The truth is, for the past year, the shoe could have dropped and it could have been worse. The previous administration, the one for which I came to Albany, was very cold and ungracious in its laying off of the previous governor's employees. I am glad it was this gracious...after all, I voted for the present governor and I wish him well.

But this is about liberation. This was the last major area where change needed to happen. I needed to get out of my cubicle. I needed to be out in the world. I am seriously considering getting a permit to drive a truck, so I can learn to drive and get a CDL. Why not get paid to do something I enjoy doing? Or perhaps I could lobby. Or apply to work for one of the two campaigns for president.

So, I see this new development as a positive...sure with some fiscal setbacks...not a negative.

I wanted out, but was not sure I could do it myself.

Well, I'm out...and I am free...and as I have 32 hours of personal leave, I can work half days for the next week and a half.

New Painting: Clam Shack

Napkin Sketches

Most of these were done while waiting for celebrants on my 40th. Top Left is original sketch for the painting above, "Clam Shack." Top right is for "After the Feast of the Castaways." Second row in progress today.

Respite for the Poet