New Beginnings

     The beginning of September always makes me think of the years that school started.  It seems more like a beginning to me then the typical New Year.  Maybe because we are conditioned to so many years of that schedule.  I had three children too, so that schedule continued for many years.  There is something about a new planner that really appeals to me.  I love adding birthdays, and holidays.  I may be showing my age but talking about a planner, but I think it;s being visual.  There is something about writing in dates and highlighting important moments that is so appealing to me. 

     I decided that this was the year that I really started to focus on my art.  I have been involved in two art groups in the last six months and am happy I did so.  This summer I participated in a group show in town, tent and all.  Lucky for me had the help of my husband.  It was sooooo hot, I wondered why I decided to do this.  The energy of all the other artists who were showing their work and meeting the public who came to see if anyone had that special piece they were looking for made it worth it.  I decided that I can no longer keep my house filled with my artwork.  The closets and walls are bursting.  Plus I need room to keep creating!  

      The photography group that I become a part of has been a real bright spot in my life. The group meets weekly and for many reasons, I don't make it that often, but have been so happy to be part of this group.  They welcomed me with open arms and we all share our love for photography.  Every level we are at and every type of camera we have is welcome.  We encourage each other and share tips and praise each other when we get that great shot.  No egos there at all.  

      Instagram has been a great outlet for me to share my work and has given me a platform to get my art out there.  (thank you to my kids for their help!)  My little daily challenges keep me fresh and help me challenge myself to paint subjects I never would have thought of before.
 
        My husband is so supportive..  I sit in my "art room" for hours at a time and just paint, scan and edit.  I eat, breathe and sleep art.  I know he can't understand just how I get so excited at every sunrise and sunset, let alone a rainbow!!!!  

       So, I will continue to write in my little planner, ( well, at least glance at it every now and then, I'm better at starting it then looking at it daily!!!).  I will keep painting and taking photos and just being present in the world around me.  My style changes  from watercolor to acrylics, to photos to abstract.  While that may not be the best thing for an artist, it's who I am.  My mood changes so my styles change.  I am not a robot, so why can't my art be what I feel at that moment?  Maybe I should focus on one style, but for now, I will do house portraits, flowers, drinks, beauty and whatever strikes my fancy. 

      One of my paintings will be in an acrylic painting book.  (When that comes out I will let you all know.