Alone but Not Alone

Often in life and in art we can feel alone. We don't have to be stranded on an island or a solitary figure on a beach (as in this painting). Sometimes even in a crowded room or in an art workshop with many other artists we can feel isolated and insecure. 

This painting was inspired by someone I know who was innocently thrust into a situation of being alone in a tragic and painful way. And yet, she found her strength by looking ahead and into the light (as the figure in this painting) to a hope that is beyond what we can see with our eyes. 

Perhaps my greatest joy in the success of Monet Cafe' (as an art group for hungry artist around the world), is the feeling of support and encouragement. Sharing and communicating with others helps us to realize that we all experience times of feeling inadequate as artists, or that we don't measure up in the artistic world. 

May I encourage you to look ahead into the light, not to the left or the right by comparing yourself to other artists. Rejoice in the simple ability to create without worrying about how it measures up to prescribed artistic standards. Like the footprints in the sand, time will erase all that we have done and yet the experience of our journey will remain. 

supplies

Canson Black Drawing Paper with no additional product for added grit.

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Prismacolor NuPastels : comes in sets of varying quantities. You don't need the large set to start.  I added a few Terry Ludwig Pastels as well. 

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