What Have I Gained from Blogging?

“Facade” 31”x 38”

polished cement & dry pigment on panel

(click to enlarge)

I use to sit out here in artist land, working away in anonymity. When I first started blogging, I was unsure of my motivations (see my first blog entry, October 7, 2009). I envisioned that it would most likely be a diary, serving mainly to clarify my thoughts and document my journey. I failed to take into account the value of the input from other working artists out there. First of all, I was astounded to see the amount and quality of the talent of artists working today. Who knew? So, the first thing I gained was inspiration. Fellow artists kindly took the time to make many insightful and useful comments about my work. So, number two, encouragement. I think another plus is the feeling of community and friendship that has developed as I am able to relate to like-minded individuals all over the world. What really floored me was a comment from an artist I really admire, David Weir. He made the observation that my work had "the feelings of Rock Art." I had never considered this! I have been trying to follow my instincts, letting my work evolve naturally by allowing it to flow from some unknown place. Who knows where? I relied on my likes and dislikes to guide my work in a direction that, hopefully, was unique. What an epiphany! I now realize that David saw the direction that I was being drawn. I am essentially working in stone (construction cement), using natural materials and mainly earth tone pigments. I construct abstract surfaces that have a feeling of evolving naturally over time with gouged fissures eroded and distressed areas. These stone-like tactile constructs are often adorned with marks that feel vaguely man-made. How did I not see this? I have observed stone art and cave paintings in the past and been captivated by their mystery and primordial commonality. I feel they strike a chord in our collective consciousness. Is this what I am reaching for? A type of modern day declaration that I was here? Maybe my Native American heritage is kicking in. I had just finished "Facade" when I read David's post about my last piece "Succotash". As I sat sipping coffee in front the finished piece, the relevance was deafening. I wonder about the impact on future work as I surrender to this revelation. So, one more thing that I have gained from blogging is the perspective of better understanding of my own work.