The moon phases of my journey as an artist have been varied and sometimes extreme.

I recently attended the unveiling of Alex Grey’s newest painting honoring Ram Daas. It was wonderful hearing the man whose art I have admired for a VERY long time. Listening to Alex and Allison’s journey was fascinating, inspiring and so very different from my own. I admire their commitment and purpose. Their accomplishments shine bright.

Unlike Alex and Allison, my path was never single minded. Many times I chose family over art. Sometimes a different career over producing art. Real life, I guess. Ups and downs. Over the long expanse however, art has maintained my sanity and my soul.

In this current phase I can’t seem to shake off the feeling that I need to “catch up”. It’s not an entirely logical feeling; I understand that. I find that very often I have to remind myself that I need to quiet down and reach inward to touch the light of what I want to say.

It’s a game game of spinning plates though to maintain growth and balance technique and expression. Somewhere along the line I feel I’ve gotten closer to singing with my own voice. Saying what I feel. Opening up my soul and taking the risks of it being seen. The phrase “experimental realism” came to mind this morning. I like it. I think I’ll try it on like a new dress and see how it feels.

I will always feel like my best paintings are ahead of me. There is never enough time to paint. But then, that’s what I signed up for, isn’t it?