“There is nothing permanent except change.” Isn’t that the old saying? Or is it “The more things change, the more they stay the same?” Whatever. We’ve certainly got a boatload of change on the horizon on a national, global and, some would say, universal, level.
Again, I say, Whatever. Not out of apathy or despair, mind you. I say “Whatever” in the spirit of the old bumper sticker from my youth - Think globally, act locally. Getting bombarded with the deluge of poorly curated “news” to my mind, does nothing more than cause anxiety and despair, and there are many better ways to facilitate change each and every day by paying attention to your own backyard. Steadfastly, humbly and with purpose. Do the things that you can directly impact - vote in local elections, or better yet, run for local office or volunteer somewhere that is meaningful to you. Give blood. Recycle (but wash them first, you lazy slob!) Watch a local school play. Hell, just make sure you know and engage with your neighbors. Be a good citizen. I like to think people will take notice and follow your example.
I am encouraged in this thinking by the positive changes that have happened in my life over the past few months. My world has personally and artistically changed dramatically and the support and friendliness shown to me has given me a shot of positivity. I have moved to a new place after living and painting within 20 miles of where I was born for my entire life. Starting from scratch in a new art community at the age of 67 is daunting to say the least (especially to a Greater Bostonian moving to (shudder) New York)! But, to my surprise and delight, everyone I’ve met has been nothing but welcoming, helpful and uplifting. I’m anxious to get more involved.
As the inimitable Dolly Parton says, “If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one.”
Esopus Valley Scene - 2024 - oil on canvas - 9” x 12” - $400
Moving to new part of the country is inspiring, especially to a landscape painter. Despite the fact that I’ve become primarily a Studio painter, the new surroundings were too tempting to ignore. The painting above is a small piece that has prompted me to look forward to spring and a further exploration of the Esopus valley to once again work in the sunlight and fresh air.
But, I haven’t forgotten Iceland…
Kerid - 2024 - oil on cradled wood panel - 24” x 36” - $2500
After eight months of working on my Iceland series, the painting above marks the end of that particular road. It is a volcanic crater called “Kerid” on the outskirts of Reykjavik and it was unlike any landscape I’d ever experienced. Visiting in March, it was icily sculpted and barren, but the geometry of the dormant caldera was beautiful. I hope to one day return in warmer months - the photos I’ve seen of it with the mosses and low scrub flora in bloom are magical.