Why Do I Make Art

Why do I make art? I enjoy the process of creating art works in various mediums, playing with materials, using the principles of art and design to unify the design, colors, textures, and bring the work to a harmonious completion.

I have two main ways of starting; the first way I make small sketches to work out the design, values, colors, and textures. Once I choose one, I draw basic shapes and as each stage progresses I remain open to whatever the work needs and make changes accordingly. Art is all about relationships; relating one mark, shape, color, value, texture, to the next.

The second method is more intuitive, more exciting, more likely to succeed or fail. I start with an idea or feeling that I want to express, or maybe I just want to experiment and experience the joy of discovery.

Either way, I don’t go for photo-realism as this is not my forte’. I work with the materials and my imagination as co-creators to express how I feel about the idea, viewpoint etc. If it feels like I am in the creative flow I continue till satisfied with the work.

If it becomes too much of a struggle I put it aside and look with fresh eyes days, months, years later. I am often amazed how it all works out well when I give up the struggle to make it work. There is a vast source within us all, mostly ignored, that will provide all the guidance and solutions to problems if we are willing to put ego aside, sit quietly, and wait for inner wisdom to reveal itself.

Making art is a wonderful tool for emotional and spiritual growth; it gives us opportunity to deal with success and failure, and is a never-ending source of joy for anyone prepared to learn and practice.

I have found that talent and inspiration come with working regularly, and more and more I look within for guidance as to what medium to use for what purpose, and I stay mindful of the need to pay attention to the present moment. Intuition, guidance, direction all develop and enlarge as we become aware, and trust the process.

Artists Who Have Influenced My Work

William Blake, Van Gogh, Gustave Dore’, Rembrandt, Alexander Nepote, Andrew Wyeth, Michael Naranjo, Peter Rogers.