Solitude

Turn Away - 26”h x 36”w on raw canvas in a maple strip frame.

"In order to understand the world, one has to turn away from it on occasion."
The Minotaur - Albert Camus

It’s been quiet in the studio lately. Approximately 10 months ago a loved one became suddenly very ill and I became a nurse and an advocate. I started working in the between spaces; between hospitals, Dr. visits, arguing with insurance companies. My work, through necessity came second and social media became an impossibility. And an interesting thing happened. Many years ago I was having a conversation with a college advisor, and they said to me “What do you do when no one is watching, what brings you joy”.

Being Myself - acrylic and vinyl on raw 26” x 36” canvas in a natural maple frame.

Seeking joy in the studio, working entirely for myself became the goal. I’ve done a few lovely commission projects during this time away and handled sales but haven’t shown anyone any new work in 10 months and its been very liberating for me.

I Need The Sunshine - acrylic and vinyl on 26” x 36” raw canvas in a natural maple frame.

Getting lost in the layers and quiet textures became a meditation.

Details from Solitary Sea Bird - acrylic and vinyl on raw canvas.

Solitary Sea Bird - acrylic and vinyl on 26 x 36” raw canvas in a natural maple strip frame.

My loved one is recovering and slowly returning to the world. I have more time in the studio but I’m hoping this lesson in solitude sticks with me and I continue to paint like no one is watching.