The prime job of artists or any creative person is to observe and comment. New ideas come from the observing, then new ideas are realized and shown through completed work, i.e. music, dance, painting, writing, etc. Hopefully the work either challenges or inspires whoever comes into contact with it, beginning another process of observation and comment.
Our brother Ben is a creative type. He wrote me this week asking if I "... ever felt weird when you give your pieces to your clients. Weird in a sad or a little depressed kind of way. Like you just lost something. I feel attached to the things I'm doing."
I responded:
"I haven't grown attached to any commissioned work yet. I think this is because I don't have any emotion invested in the subjects. Now, the non-commissioned work, any personal work I do that is created as a result of inspiration or some other gut feeling, will be another matter. These works are personally valuable to me because from beginning to end, I was responsible for bringing them into the world. My personality and values are part of each work, so the thought of letting these pieces go does make me a little nervous because I want them to be respected and treated well.
I document my work as I go, so I have a chance to see how my work changes over time, and I never let a piece leave without having photographed it for the portfolio.
I haven't sold any private work yet. When I do, I suspect that there will be a little postpartum depression that sets in for a short time. But, having other people acquire my work is the whole point for me. Unless my paintings move around in the world they just get dusty. Outside, they become dynamic and out of my control and that turns me on. I put my best into each piece and then let them effect as they will. Simple themes and subjects will evoke emotions and thoughts that I never intended, and I really like that idea."
Here is some artwork that I love. Enjoy.
Have a good weekend, and Godspeed, John Glenn,
Dave
