Sunday, May 3, 2020

Meeting art greats -- the power of influence


The Blue Shirt
Acrylic on canvas
16 x 20 inches
Barbara Muir © 2004
Today's portrait is of my son Sam in 2004, 16 years ago.
Sam was a very kind model, who I relied on a lot in those
years when I first switched from mainly watercolour to
acrylics.  In 2003 my husband and I went to California
for the first time so that I could study with Skip
Lawrence and Toph Shink (I see Toph is now calling himself
Christopher.) I learned so much in that week.

When I got home I was so filled with inspiration and
admiration that I couldn't paint for about a month.
Ironic right? Now we are constantly inspired by
great artists all over the world, and that is liberating
for me.  But then my awe at their expertise was
a bit overpowering.

My family stepped in and very patiently sat for me.
Plus I attended art group sessions with the Don
Valley Art Club's Tuesday night Art Group, and
found being around other artists comforting.  I was
tidying today and discovered this portrait, and felt so
grateful to Skip, and Toph, and to all of the directors,
artists and collectors in my life.  And to my family -- who
are always there for me.  Thank you.

Have a loving your story day.

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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!