Analog Art

Maybe because it's autumn, or maybe, it's due to the 50% off Michael's (art supply chain) coupon, I am inspired to paint with oils again.  I am in love with the smells.  Oils give such a strong odor, it's breath taking.  I discover peace when I paint.  It may be the fumes which get me giddy, but I'd argue a different point.   

Everyone finds an activity which they can just let their mind slack off and take a breather.  For most, sports/ physical activity add that element of "clarity".  I am too distracted by the sounds of my own body when I work out.  I hear the echoed breathing; the chub rub sound, and the loudest of all -the super critical inner voice: "I look fat in these shorts, I need to wear baggier clothes." or "My lard thighs are jiggling, and I bet they're all looking".  For me, painting takes a special kind of concentration, quieting the inner voice and my only focus develops through colors.  

The first layer of paint always looks messy, as if I was a four year old learning to color inside the lines.  It's not until adding shadows and highlights does the painting start to truly live.  I like to make certain lines or details POP with extra gobs of paint, this adds more of a 3D appeal.  If you've ever been to a museum and noticed they have guards in every room, they stalk the art because more often then not, people try to touch the paintings.  Humans are tactile creatures, we want our fabrics soft, our pets fluffy, and our oil paintings bumpy.  As I continue to paint, more and more blobs of oily goodness will appear -currently I find myself anxious for the paint to dry, the more paint = more drying time.  I suppose I will also learn the art of patience as time progresses. 

For now, I am pausing from digital joys and going analog with art.