I am running out of projects to finish. I also admit that I am feeling big, immobile and a bit restless.
I started taking an art class in 2005 to help relieve some of the stress from our home remodel. It was great therapy for me. So I showed up at art class on Saturday after almost an 8 week break and not only was I able to enjoy the company of fellow classmates (ages 9-60) but I finally finished this watercolor painting. I started it in September but have been slow to finish since my only time to paint is at art class. Unlike sewing, it is very difficult for me to multi-task and take care of kids while immersed in an art project. Probably because it is messier and takes more of my brain capacity. When doing art I have to completely "check out" which is why I rarely have a chance to do it and also why I enjoy it so much.
I was once told "mothers with five young children should not be taking an art class". I think that is completely false! Some mothers like to go shopping, go to lunch, get their nails done, why shouldn't I go to an art class once a week? I think it is important to be recharged and have an outlet outside the home.
The picture I painted is from a photograph I took of William and Peter looking down at the fish pond at Red Butte Garden. Upon returning home I pulled out the kids unfinished foamcore paintings. They like using acrylic since the colors are vibrant and more fun to mix than kids' washable paints. Paul joined in to help James finish his squares and realized he had not painted since elementary school. So we all got to enjoy a little art therapy this weekend.
Al. Great painting! I agree that it's hard to get in the same zone of painting with a bunch of kids running around. Maybe its because being a mother is a primarily a left brain activity. It's hard to make the switch from "Where are my truck socks?" to mixing the perfect shade of green.
ReplyDeleteI am seeing a touch of Asian in you in that paining. How pretty. I agree with Cathy about the switch. It is hard. I used to enjoy pencil drawing and dreamed about one day drawing my own kids, but I am still dreaming about it.
ReplyDeleteI love the one of James and William! I could tell who each one was and where you were before I even read your description. You totally captured the moment.
ReplyDeleteI learned another new thing about you! You are such a talented artist. I love your painting of William and James. Elder Scott was here in Korea last weekend and I was so deeply touched for him to leave us a little copy of one of his watercolors, I promptly went out and bought some paint to try dabbling in it myself just for fun. It IS a relaxing activity!
ReplyDeleteM. Perriton