Why do we do what we do?
I’m continuing to develop this painting. It’s interesting how photographing these pieces at the end of each painting session is helpful. It’s a little strange to see them midway like this away from the drawing table, but not a totally bad thing.
One of the most telling decision an artist makes is their subject matter - or choice of no subject matter. I can only speak from my experience and as an art purchaser but I think it is a reflection of the maturity of an artist. Cy Twombly as well as others I respect speak of the importance of finding our “mark”. I think we all make instinctive choices about how we want to attack a blank piece of paper. We have a natural mark and a personal way of seeing color.
I admire artists who have the courage to listen to their inner voice and use their personal strengths. When they do that, I feel like I’m viewing confident art It doesn’t have to have a clear message because the messages received are personal and varied, no matter what the artist intends. I want to see honesty and confidence that comes from experience and thoughtfulness.
So the goal for me is to always listen to my own inclinations and work in a way that is natural. I try to stay open to outside comments and reactions but I don’t let them direct my work. If I’m not doing what comes naturally and doing it in a way that uses my personal strengths, then why am I making art? I don’t think I’d be making art — I’d just be making.
