Sunday, February 6, 2011

Not all who wander are lost

2011 has been quite a daunting year so far. Lots to think about, many decisions to be made, and still a lot to get through.
This weekend, we had our 2nd unexpected 3-day weekend in a row. The weekends are almost feeling too long now (dare I say that?). To do something different, last night Jamie and I had an art night. I discovered the way I approach art is how I approach so many things in life.
Once we had set up the canvases and pulled out the paint and brushes, Jamie thought for about 2 seconds before a brush hit that canvas. Meanwhile, I sipped on my wine while scouring etsy for inspiration, trying to decide "what I was feeling", and what I wanted my piece to say. Once I decided what I wanted, I made a sketch on paper first, then sketched on my canvas, picked out and mixed all the colors I thought I wanted. TOO MUCH PLANNING.
And the painting, oh the painting...dare I say it stressed me out? With every stroke I scrutinized if that is what I wanted it to look like. About ten times I repainted, and changed, and made new colors, and added, and took away.
And you know what?
Everything turned out alright. Maybe even great. I like the painting even more this morning.
So, I need to learn to enjoy the process more. Quit stressing about each and every detail (especially those I have no control over). Everything will turn out fine, and it will be even better if I can look back and tell stories of all the great things that helped me to "get there".

Wandering:

7 comments:

Christi W said...

very cool! it turned out great

Jamie said...

Yes, Brigid, it DID turn out great. I love the way you reflected on this activity. You are SO talented and smart and wonderful! Don't forget it and don't let people make you think otherwise.

Caitlin said...

me gusta!

Alix said...

I LOVE it!

Yasi said...

this looks INCREDIBLE!

Kate said...

Keep painting! Your work is great!
Everyone has a different way of getting there.....
And when you have more, and can part with some, lets talk!
I have this reallllly big wall.....

Bethany Ramey Trombley Austin Artist and Architect said...

This does not seem belabored -- the beautiful layers of paint seem very spontaneous and free -- jaunty and gallivantific. Hope to see you soon. Bethany