November 18, 2008

Art - A seeing and feeling process

I am not going to wallow in creative self pity once more. Suffice it to say that I just couldn't summon up the inspiration to push around the paint today. I have many wonderful images and ideas in the queue but they all seemed flat. I passed up dinner and Quantum of Solace tonight because I felt that I had to create something. (Sorry Steve, a vodka martini, shaken, not stirred, might have cheered me up) Some artists can force themselves to work when their heart isn't in it, and successfully come out the other side. If I try and do that, it is reflected in the paint, which just makes me feel worse. Performance anxiety sets in when I have been away from the studio too long. I hate to disappoint everyone who has subscribed to my blog and who look forward to wonderful new things from me. Sorry guys, I'm working on it. This economy is getting to me. Did I mention we are building a new house? How's that for timing?

5 comments:

JEANNE ILLENYE said...

Hi, Mark! I go through the same thing. I absolutely must be "in the mood" to paint or the results are fruitless and in fact, on occasion devastating to the painting. Then there are days of sheer creative bliss which begin at my easel immediately following breakfast and end almost 24 hours later when I force myself to turn away from my easel and get some sleep prior to the next sunrise. So, I'm sure we all understand that the creative spirit must be nurtured and rejuvinated. Those who appreciate will wait! Jeanne

Mark Adams said...

Jeanne,
Funny that you should leave a comment at the very moment that I was just looking at the lovely pears you posted on your blog today.
Thanks for the comforting words. It helps to know that other artists that I respect go through this on occasion.

Alice Thompson said...

Mark, I tagged you- my apologies.

Mark Adams said...

Thanks,alice. I'm flattered. A little introspection may be in order. It might just nudge the muse.

Susan Martin Spar said...

Oh Mark! I was so relieved to see your post here. You're brave. It takes courage to say, "I just couldn't today!" Just like everyone else, I have those days and I agree that when I force myself, the results are dismal. On good days, I sometimes paint extras to help carry me through. But the pressure to get one out is sometimes almost depressing. Showing up is half the battle. Oh...I love Vodka Martini's! Shaken, of course, not stirred.