Thursday, September 18, 2008

Thank goodness for artist friends

My friend Eldon in Colorado liked a series of steps I put
in my September 2 blog showing how a painting developed
in class. I didn't expect to go any further with the image,
but Tuesday night at art class Petro told me he had a photo
of the model, Gaye, and he'd send it to me if I gave him
my email.

Last night it arrived, and today I worked on the painting,
thinking of Eldon as I did. Petro's reference wasn't ideal,
for me -- he wasn't working on the same view, but it was clear
enough to help me complete my painting, and I am so grateful
for his kind help. I'm sure I'll see more to work on tomorrow.
But here's today's update.

I'm working on another painting now, so I have to make
it quick again tonight. Tomorrow afternoon I teach, and
there's an opening tomorrow night. In Toronto it's always
like this in the autumn. It's our most intense art season.
Thanks Eldon for inspiring me to keep going, something I
rarely do with my class efforts.



In the blue dress
acrylic on canvas
14" x 20"

Tonight I sat on the back porch enjoying the light as the day
slipped from golden light shining through the big maples,
into the deep, jeweled blue of evening. I couldn't help
feeling fortunate just to be alive. And I thought I am lucky that
I love my home, my friends, my children, and my city.

As I write this Timbah the cat climbs up on my lap
purring, as if to say -- 'don't forget me -- I'm one of the
reasons you're happy.' It's true.

Have a what-a-wonderful-life day.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

I hadn't thought of myself as an inspiration but I'm certainly glad you are still working on this painting. Keep it comin!!
EW

Barbara Muir said...

Thanks Eldon,

I won't be doing much to it, but
I will touch it up here and there.
How could you not be an inspiration with your beautiful work?!!!

Barbara

Laurel Daniel said...

Friends are really a huge component whether they are providing reference, insight or encouragement! Another brilliant portrait Barbara, and thank YOU for your encouragement!

Barbara Muir said...

Thanks Laurel,

I really love your style, the
way you say so much about
a space, in such a perfectly painted way.

Barbara

Portrait Artist

My photo
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
I paint and draw on commission and for shows. To commission a portrait, or purchase one of my paintings please contact me at: barbara.muir@sympatico.ca
A major highlight in my career? Drawing Oprah Winfrey live via Skype for her show "Where in the Skype are you? Galleries: Studio Vogue Gallery, Toronto, Canada. The Amsterdam Whitney Gallery, New York City. Gallery at the Porch Door, Kingston, Canada. Your positive comments on this blog mean the world to me. I'd love to hear from you!