"It's taken me years to come to the conclusion, or to the belief, that probably the only thing one can really learn, the only technique to learn, is the capacity to be able to change. And it's a very difficult thing. But as modern artists that's our fate, constant change. I don't mean novelty or anything like that. What I mean is serious play, which we call art, can't be stamped. I mean you have to keep learning to play in different ways all of the time. It's always good for the first time. There's a popular Italian song, "Per la Prima" - "For the First Time" It's about a love affair, but it's the same thing. It's always good for the first time, then somehow that has to be recaptured constantly."
Philip Guston in a talk to Yale Summer students
Words to live by. Constant change and play.
I finished this painting after a weekend trip to Chincoteague. It was stormy and we had a splendid show. The idea came from a small moment of time..one or two seconds...just to watch and describe to myself. Like an amazing blessing.
4 comments:
This one sees quite special.
Hi Loriann
It's so very difficult to define exactly what the human psyche is capable of, hence, I believe that change is part of whom we are. It walks with us, all we need to do, is to embrace it and move forward. However, to remain complacent, is to let fear rule. Then I ask you, how can anyone be an artist only to be ruled by fear? Silly.
I have been keeping up with your work, and always enjoy your paintings and writings, brings joy to my heart. I especially enjoy the way in which you apply pigment and line, and yes, when you go beyond.
Be well and keep working.
M
You have been doing such amazing work lately, Loriann, and it's obvious that you are not afraid of change and play! As always, I admire the way you distill and concentrate the beauty you perceive without adding anything unnecessary. I like your little skunk friend from a few weeks ago too :)
Thanks Liz, Micros and Donna! I really appreciate all of your kind, supportive words. Changing is very difficult...hard to do when something doesn't work and even harder to do when something does. Complacency should be fought at all costs.
xo Loriann
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