A few nights ago, I woke up at 4:00 a.m. with a brilliant idea for a new body of work. And for about an hour, I tossed and turned. I visualized the gallery wall, the number of cradle boards needed, associated storage, logistics and more. Then I woke up and after a few cups of coffee with a clear head, I decided this “brilliant” idea may not be all that unique so I should get back to the work I’ve already started. This machination leads me to a few tips.
Tip #1: Decades ago, I was working on a painting. It was about 50 percent complete. An art instructor suggested I work out the problem on paper before going any further on the canvas. This was a very good tip and saved me from numerous frustrating moments or losing some good work.
The second-best tip I ever received is if I’m suffering, there’s probably some form of integrity missing.
Tip #3: At the end of the day, leave something unfinished as this will provide a clear plan for the next day.
The first two tips let me release the tight grip I may have on the problem. I become a bit more flexible, resilient and playful.
Delayed Notice
There was a fantastic exhibit of Kishio Suga’s work on paper at Blum and Poe in Culver City. This show was the most comprehensive survey of his work in this medium. (It could be a little cruel to write about this exhibit after-the-fact as it came down on February 26. I confess I was distracted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Me bad.) I found his work attractive by the rectangular fields of color, shapes and materials so I still wanted to share it with you.
Rarely do I show work in progress but I’m currently working on the below painting. I think this is the first 30” x 30” cradle board of a triptych. For some reason, the gray, ashy surface is reminding me of the rubble of buildings in Ukraine. For the final painting, come back in a month or two.
Noteworthy Reception
A number of artists are gathering for a Relief Benefit Exhibition at Keystone Gallery from April 9 through April 17. The reception is April 9 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at 338 S. Ave 16, Los Angeles.
