A couple of test pieces as I try out some ideas. Not as fluid as I was hoping, but it’s early days; there’s a reason they’re test pieces!

Right now, I’m:

• wanting a studio space (or a room which could become a studio)
• working out when I can finish “Marie Kondoing” my flat, including all the art I’ve got stored here
• wanting to finish writing my artist’s statement
• slowly sorting out the mess of files on my laptop
• reviewing how I get things done
• being distracted by manual espresso maker videos

Painting Notes

Grey, the colour of fear.
A lighter mid-grey. Numb.
Fear as a wall. A blockade. Barrier.
Behind which lies the gold, the light.
The quiet voice – listen.

—

Observations

Plenty still to do with these.

Add gloss and matt mediums to the top work. Perhaps thicker paint at some point—also small black bits. I like the energy of the work, the dynamism.

Painting the square work feels like constructing a wall. More layers to add, and perhaps sand back.

The act of making reveals insights into the nature of fear.

Also, find, make, or purchase more surfaces. A potential series of work.

As mentioned last week, here are two larger sketchbook drawings.

Working larger still feels uncomfortable, and quite unconsciously, I worked on smaller drawings last night - the format being so much more familiar and the card near at hand. That said, I think there’s value in persevering at the larger scale to see what emerges.

While I find it all too easy to allow myself to be distracted by Instagram, at least it gives me plenty of eye candy to share with you.

And today, it’s a bumper edition!

And if you’re wondering about my practice, I have been making the odd sketch or two. Bigger than before, the results are looser, uncomfortable, and unfamiliar as I adjust to the change in the relationship of biro mark to enlarged frame. I’m still getting used to them, so maybe I’ll show you some next week. Until then, take care and enjoy your day!