The Search for Inspiration (New Self Portrait)

I completed this self portrait back in July, but thought I should share the story behind it. The inspiration behind this painting was lack of inspiration. I'm still new at this whole motherhood thing. Some days, like when Cece is teething, I know I'll never step foot in my studio, because those days are hard... In the trenches. All about her. And of course, just four months ago, we packed up our lives and made the move from Texas to Colorado. These huge changes brought about a struggle for me -- I hit a giant creative block. Finally, I decided to stretch and prime about a dozen new canvases of various sizes, hoping they would motivate me to start some new paintings. The strategy worked. I had this idea of doing a self portrait that showed my frustration over having no ideas. The b… Read more »

The Search for Inspiration (New Self Portrait)

New York, Sargent, and Max Ginsburg

It is now officially autumn, and as much as I love summer, I am ready for the change. This morning the air felt different. It was crisp, and smelled of earth. I closed my eyes and drank it in. It was a welcome breath after my big trip to the city a couple weeks ago. Yes, I was in New York! And it still felt like summer there. Normally I try to avoid big crowds, horrible traffic, and polluted air... but I wanted to see the John Singer Sargent show, "Portraits of Artists and Friends," at the Met. This is a must-see for every figurative artist (the show ends on October 4).  It is sooooo worth the hassle! So before I get off my computer and escape back to the fresh air of fall (hiking this weekend, anyone?), I'll give you a brief recap of my New York trip. First thing's firs… Read more »

New York, Sargent, and Max Ginsburg