The People Behind My Eyes

I took a finger painting lesson from ClinicallyClueless. I got out the oils and paper and let it flow. I was afraid to finger paint because I figured I’d feel with much more intensity than when painting with a brush or painting with a computer program. The truth is, I did feel more but it wasn’t more painful. Finger painting is actually exhilarating. I’ve done several now and I intend to do more.

One of the things I find difficult with art therapy is staying in the moment. I have a hard time not getting lost in the art of it all. It continues to be a challenge for me to not get lost but let the emotion flow with the paint. There have been times when I’ve painted with my eyes closed because what I felt was so strong. I was painting emotion not creating a masterpiece. I have to keep that in mind when doing art therapy. There is a difference between what I do on Sundrip and what I do over here. I’m not trying to paint a pretty picture or paint something that people may enjoy. This art is different, has a different meaning, symbolizes more than my desire to grace at least one wall in every home across the nations You didn’t know that did-ja, about my evil art plan? I plan to take over the walls of the world. whaha ha ha ha. Seriously though……

This second image isn’t as sad as it appears. She’s an older lady sort of worn to the bone, hair a wiry gray-blue (you know the kind of hair we all fear having when we get older). She’s a symbol of aging without grace.

“White Gloom” is done in PRANG coloured pencil with a white watercolour wash which is how she got the serious vitamin D deficiency look to her. The PRANG brand does well with a watercolour wash because of how soft the led is. It’s great for multi-media type pieces.

I usually do the eyes in two shades to symbolize two different realties. The eyes in this painting are no different. Her eyes are green and brown.

Usually I go with very bright colours but I chose to mute this one, make her a bit softer. When painting her I didn’t feel sad, reflective but not sad. I can’t believe I’ll be 37 soon. Funny how I don’t feel any age at all, not old, not young, just here. To me she looks a bit sad but I certainly didn’t feel that way when creating her. The scan doesn’t show three stars beside her right ear but they’re there. The three stars are yellow with a golden coloured center. Her hair is blue and the background is broken brick in reds, greens and a touch of blue here and there.

I suppose that’s all for me today. I should hit the sheets.

Until again,

Austin