First return to painting

 Poppies 2, acrylic 16"X20"

After my mom's passing, I turned my back on my art. I packed up all my supplies, along with canvases and stored them in my garage for 11 years. I do not understand why my grief took this form but there you have it. 

A year and half ago, I returned to writing and began making mixed media art. I am quite dedicated to working as a writer and artist now. You know, I actually had an earlier blog in earlier 2000's also called Van Gogh Chica that I deleted around 2009. Why? I was shamed by some harsh criticism and caved into my insecurity. Damn, how I wish I had those years of writings still! I also mourn the damage done to my canvases and art supplies from being in a non climate controlled garage in South Florida for 11 years.

Oh well. No use crying over spilled milk. I decided my neurological recovery of my dominant hand is far enough along that I can return to painting. My hand still shakes and is a little impaired but I am confident that I can make it work enough to create paintings. I am  now excited with my newfound career as an artist and writer

My first canvas upon return to painting is a colorful one that reminds me of the beauty of San Francisco. While living there for 13 years, I discovered a love of poppies. I remember being amazed that large natural gardens of poppies existed so casually along freeways and among crowded living. Their vibrancy and floppy delicate petals spoke to me.

My poppy painting is from a low ground vantage. I imagined laying in the field of flowers and turning and seeing them against a beautiful setting sun. The colors bring forth a hopefulness that I could use these days.

I have allowed myself the luxury of support and assistance in my art studio. I look to YouTube instructors for advice, help getting started and details I missed in art classes (like the practical differences between painting brushes or where can you skimp on money and still get pretty good supplies.) I am also seeking community around my arts. Zoom groups and classes are helpful. 

If I can leave you with one important lesson from this experience, it is: do not give up when you feel your muses have left you. Art (visual and writing) is a discipline. Stay with it. Set new goals. Seek support and just keep putting one foot in front of the other.