It was difficult to complete this painting because I was dealing with the death of my mother-in-law, all of the responsibilities of her family and estate, real estate issues, and other time obligations. However, it was also a very magical experience. I hesitate to use the word magical, but it did just seem to come together. It wasn't exactly what I had envisioned, and it didn't necessarily match my hard-earned references. But what did come about touched my soul and was exactly what I wanted it to be.
Fire Face
I didn't get a photo from my first painting session so this is a bit into the process. This is the last painting I completed in 2016. It was part of a local collaborative project hosted by the Hoffman Center for the Arts in Manzanita, Oregon, called "Word and Image". I participated in 2015 with the painting, "Sunday Dinner". They randomly pair a writer with a painter. As the painter, I create a painting inspired by my assigned artist. As luck would have it, my artist was the same as in 2015! I was there when they drew her name out of the hat so I know it was indeed random. And it was a gift to me. I really enjoy working her.
Peek - A - Boo
HIs face is beginning to emerge. He has skin tones, though not enough yet. Some of his features are coming through. My problem is that whenever I stand back and look at him, I see my son. Am I seeing what isn't really there? Am I painting what I see subconsciously? Or am I just verifiably insane? We may never know.
Embrace
Well, here she is, "Embrace". She's definitely different than anything I've done before. And I'm really happy with her. Her features are distinct and I believe the emotion comes through. I feel like in addition to finding comfort in the warmth and softness of the blanket, she is remembering times of comfort as well. Isn't that what a security blanket it all about? The memories? A new blanket may be warm and soft, but it doesn't bring the same comfort as the worn and raggedy one that smells like home, or Mom, or a loved one. It doesn't have the memories attached of the time you snuggled on the couch together, or when it covered you during an illness. Safety and security come from time tested trials and triumphs and the consistency of knowing that what you need and what you love will be there when you need it again.