Art Education and Mental Health
Would those massacring shooters have done those horrible things if they had enough art in their life? I genuinely mean that question in a deep way, so let’s consider this.
What is Abstract Conceptualism?
I would like to promote abstract conceptualism for I believe that the mixture of metaphysical abstract thought required, together with the process of objectifying those non-material thoughts in a way they can be shared with others is a very healing process both for the artist and the viewer.
You Belong Here (Brené Brown quote)
True belonging and self-worth are not goods; we don’t negotiate their value with the world. The truth about who we are lives in our hearts.
Psalm 91 (New Abstract Oil Painting by Polly Castor)
I have been thinking about Psalm 91 since the hurricanes, fires, earthquakes, and general calamities over the last month, and now yesterday with the news of another mass shooting, I settled down to prayerfully finish this painting.
Recent Black and White Photographs
As much as I love color, I enjoy an ongoing project of taking photos in black and white. They are value and mood studies, and sometimes works of art in themselves.
Pastel Demo by Maria Merino at the National Arts Club
All I can say is bravo. This is an artist to watch and treasure. Collect her work too if you can!
Bits and Clips for September 2017
Here is the best of what I read or saw on the internet this month. I hope you find something here that is interesting, helpful, enlightening or inspiring. Check out these live links:
The Other Einstein (Book Review)
I have long wondered about the first Mrs. Einstein’s role in the origin of the theory of relativity. The fact that when she divorced him she was awarded all financial proceeds from his future Nobel prizes, only supported all sorts of evidence from letters that the early work was actually hers.
Two New Abstract Pastel Paintings
See here my two most recent abstract conceptualist paintings in pastel: Psyche and Voltage. Tell me what you think!
Photos of September Flowers
I live in a beautiful place surrounded by flowers. Here are just a sampling of the beautiful blooms I have enjoyed this month.
How to Roast Beets (with Photos of Our Bumper Crop)
Try using roasted beets this season! What a welcome thing for us to have in abundance over here!
Part of Something Bigger (poem by Polly Castor)
This quest is huge,
unbiased, profound,
and never ending.
Thankfully, by design,
fruition is unfolding
and assured.
Environmental Data ( Both Bad and Good News)
Wisdom demands that we take steps to prevent dire conditions. Many steps have already been taken. What can you do?
Stay Eager (Susan Sontag Quote)
Do stuff. Be clenched, curious. Not waiting for inspiration’s shove or society’s kiss on your forehead.
Photos of Food Presentation
So during food preparation, think ahead to plating the food. Consider the contrast of not only tastes and textures, but color too. If something you are making is complicated, accompany it with something simple.
Featured Artists: Earth, Fire, Spirit Pottery
Called Earth, Fire, Spirit, these ceramic artists are both creative and affordable. Check out their work in this post …