Sourdough II
I paint at home, where my palettes rest invitingly on the windowsill. This roosting collection of colors encourages a regular practice, like my swimming and daily dog walks, that nourishes and sustains me. Becoming animated with water, the hues connect me to spaces beyond familiar walls by inspiring exploration, interpretation, and hope. Routinely creating artwork helps me recognize complexity in the simple assertion of Irish poet John O’Donohue: “Beauty is that in the presence of which we feel more alive.” Stretching to seek out new teachers and subject matter and to question the meaning in my work, I value O’Donohue’s words for the liberty they offer me to paint what just feels right. I have worked on commission for many years, focusing on my whimsical maps, and have preferred over time to paint ordinary things--most often those found in nature. I am so grateful for the gifts of time, space and quiet which have made this joyous and purposeful outpouring of color possible.
“And when your eyes
Freeze behind
The grey window
And the ghost of loss
Gets into you,
May a flock of colours,
Indigo, red, green
And azure blue,
Come to awaken in you
A meadow of delight."
--John O’Donohue