Work in Progress July 2020
Greetings dear reader! How are you? I am excited to share a work in progress with you today. Also, I will describe the latest happenings from the studio here in Raleigh NC.
When I finish this painting, it will be a part of this series. But for now, I plan to share some thoughts that are percolating in my head. And, I will share some studio light problems that I am trying to resolve. In other words, this week is presenting me with lots of “work in progress.”
Why
Last weekend, I heard a wonderful story about Violinist Isaac Stern on NPR’s Weekend Edition. The focus of the story is the 100th anniversary of Stern’s birth on July 21st. You can read the entire story here if you are interested.
What piqued my curiosity more than the 100 year birthday of this incredible violinist? His quote from an interview with Diane Rehm in 1999 “…the real question that needs to be answered is not how to play well, but why one chooses to play at all.” Ah…this intrigues me. When I was in art school, my classmates and I often wondered ‘why’ our teachers, the founder, Nelson Shanks, and other living and departed artists painted. What is it about painting that called them to paint.
Unless you think this will be an easy ‘multiple choice’ question, I will share a confession. I am still pondering the ‘why’ question. But, the good news is I am lucky to be able to do this. Right? In the midst of my ‘luck’ however, is the intrepid search for why. As a younger person, I could have easily answered this. But as an older adult, I am hesitating to commit to the ‘why’ for now. I do plan to be able to articulate this sooner rather than later.
Another Work In Progress
Moving on from the ‘why question,’ here’s another work in progress. They all revolve around light! I am so lucky to have a north light studio. It is the most beautiful light. You can get a glimpse of the north light window in my studio here below.
The north light view is not so much a problem. However, I am dealing with a little bit too much light from the east facing skylights in the studio. And, I felt pretty smart and resourceful when I clamped drapes on the rafters to filter out the light. You can see these amazing skylights in the photo below.
See the gaps at the bottom of the skylights? Welp…they are the current issue. In the afternoon, they are not a bother. But in the morning, these rectangles of light are literally blinding! And, guess what? I actually think I have a solution to this problem. I am going to move the drapes so that they cover the bottom rectangle. Stay tuned and I’ll give you an update on whether or not this solution works and is viable.
A few questions
Before I sign off, I have a question for you. As is true with any artist, I am interested in expanding my group of subscribers here. I have been thinking of different special offers I could offer and would be interested in your feedback and opinion. What inspired you to sign up for these blog posts here? Do you have any suggestions or topics that you might like to hear? What if I offered a drawing for a ‘drawing’? Would you be interested in participating in that and/or sharing it with a friend? Thank you for any suggestions you share in the comments below.
4 Comments
Beth Dyer Clary
July 23, 2020(The key that follows F is not workin on my keyboard so fill that letter in as needed.)
The paintin is tantalizin, Julie. Can’t wait to see the finished product. I think it’s the color that lures me in.
My reason for si nin up is, pun intended, relative. I have no idea how to increase the number of subscribers here – sorry. I had an idea with another artist about havin a linkin day where we all posted somethin to various social media and provided links to others we want to entice people to follow. When I talked about this with one of my respected mentors, she told me to just do the work and people will come. Kind of like Field of Dreams, “If you build it, they will come.” Not very helpful but the best I can do!
Julie Holmes
July 24, 2020Hi Beth, It’s fun to read your comment and imagine you actually speaking this way. You: “Tantalizin paintin, Julie!” Ha!!!
I really resonate with your mentor friend’s point of view on building a following. It makes sense that, with time, things build. I had a coach in a previous work life (and have read on other blogs) that it takes up to 18 months to have a following with any consequence. Since I’m only 6 months into this painting/blogging adventure, I guess I need to initiate patience!
Most of all, I really really appreciate that you take the time to read and comment here. It makes this journey so much more enjoyable! Thank you and lots o’ love!
Alexandra
July 25, 2020So excited to find out what the work in progress will be! The bit you did show is very impressive. It glows!
I love Issac Stern! I had no idea it was his 100th birthday. I enjoyed reading the article you linked to. He was such an impressive human being; not just for his talent but for his warmth, compassion, and humanity.
I wish I had a good suggestion on how to increase your group of subscribers. What you propose sounds good. In answer to your question, I signed up for your blog because I enjoy seeing what you paint and reading your thoughts about it. I also appreciate your honesty and can absolutely relate to the ups and down you describe.
Julie Holmes
July 27, 2020Hi Alexandra, I’m excited too and hope it lives up to snuff! Stay tuned.
Yes – Isaac Stern and his music are so inspiring…even now after he is gone. What a wonderful musical legacy he has left us!
Thank you for you honest answer about bumping up subscribers. For now, I have decided the best thing I can do is to keep painting and blogging. Mostly, I want you to know how much I appreciate the time you take to read and then thoughtfully comment here. It’s always wonderful to hear from you!