One thing that I’ve noticed about successful artists is that they spend more time making art than doing anything else. I remember John Salminen describing himself as ‘Highly Motivated’ to make art. This week I’m letting nothing get in the way. I have new paintings in process and I’m going to have them ready to show you by early next week, I promise! I even had the courage to let the phone ring and let someone leave a message (*GASP) while I was painting yesterday. Can you believe it?
This morning I read a great blog post about just getting down to work on Jackie Simmonds’ Blog. I think many art students think that experienced painters know all the answers, when in fact, every painting presents a new riddle. Some people spend time solving the riddle.
I’m motivated by wanting to have new work to submit to shows. I have a few deadlines coming up and a couple of invitational exhibitions on the horizon. The first will be the Sitka Invitational at the World Forestry Center, Portland Oregon. Mark your calendar now for November 10 & 11, 2012! More information available at SitkaCenter.com.
“Beret” ©Ruth Armitage Watercolor on Yupo 14″x11″ Sold
Ruth–I love this painting…the whole figure communicates in color and shape and the fabulous hair face and dress! You are definitely on a roll! Mary in Montana
Thanks Mary 🙂
This is a fun piece, The figure comes right out to greet me!
Thanks Margaret, that’s what I was going for 🙂
Great painting, Ruth–lovely colors and energy! I, too, think good artists spend more time doing art than other things–we are highly motivated to create. There is the downside, though, of overdoing it (I’ve got carpal tunnel and rotator cuff problems due to so much painting). Also, I just read H. Spurling’s Vol. 2 of Matisse’s bio and was rather disturbed to learn that Matisse often chose his art over his family and everyone suffered for it. It’s not easy finding a balance, but there is nothing that gives me so much satisfaction as diving into the painting process (even better when a great painting results, but that’s not always the case, and I’m okay with that). Love your work!
Thanks Liz,
Of course you are right about the balance 🙂 Sorry to hear about your carpal tunnel syndrome! Hope you heal quickly…
I love this painting, Ruth! The colors and lines are wonderful! Did you use something to stamp the red fabric pattern?
Thanks Jansi,
I used a stencil of punchinello for the pattern 🙂
Totally enjoy this work, Ruth. Congratulations on the shows…
Thanks Roxanne 🙂
This piece is awesome! She reminds me of several very fun women I know.
Thanks Lucy!