I’m deep “In the Gorge”. The layers of transparent pigments are starting to get interesting, though there are still many decisions to be made about our shape-shifting river. While sunshine pours through the gin-clear water in the mid-section, it is filtered and obscured by the ancient litter of cedars which have collapsed into it. I see it through Jon’s eyes: these mysterious crevices and cast shadows are where the big trout lurk. However, today (now about five layers in), I am happy to begin re-establishing the cedars’ white bones wherever they emerge from the water. Jon’s shirt too needs its brightness restored. Laying in these whites is a joy.
Building this painting has been meditative. Downed trees morph into an esoteric calligraphy of shapes and lines. The addition of the thinly- glazed primaries just deepens the revery of fluid motion. I toggle between hard line and soft wash, between subtle tones and clean whites. The cedars may be dead, but they are full of life for those who live within their tangled skeletons
Several posts ago, I promised to return to the subject of learning, especially meditative. Many years ago I was introduced to a hand-held skin-response galvanometer, which was to be marketed as a meditation device; it ticked loudly if you were tense. The bio-feedback loop was amazing and it took no time at all to learn to silence it. It took decades of looking for something similar before I finally found it in the shape of a Muse Headband. I look like a geographically-challenged Egyptian princess but no matter. When the ocean roars, I am learning what to do to quiet the surf and make the birds sing. So perhaps the “Muse” has been truly named. Whatever the cause, this painting doesn’t feel like work at all.
Building this painting has been meditative. Downed trees morph into an esoteric calligraphy of shapes and lines. The addition of the thinly- glazed primaries just deepens the revery of fluid motion. I toggle between hard line and soft wash, between subtle tones and clean whites. The cedars may be dead, but they are full of life for those who live within their tangled skeletons
Several posts ago, I promised to return to the subject of learning, especially meditative. Many years ago I was introduced to a hand-held skin-response galvanometer, which was to be marketed as a meditation device; it ticked loudly if you were tense. The bio-feedback loop was amazing and it took no time at all to learn to silence it. It took decades of looking for something similar before I finally found it in the shape of a Muse Headband. I look like a geographically-challenged Egyptian princess but no matter. When the ocean roars, I am learning what to do to quiet the surf and make the birds sing. So perhaps the “Muse” has been truly named. Whatever the cause, this painting doesn’t feel like work at all.
"In the Gorge" #3 glaze oil 30 x 40
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