Fun Art and My Artist Statement

I love art. It is not only a joy to create but also a joy to collect. I recently bought some wonderful pieces that I keep in my office surrounding me for inspiration. Let me introduce you...

Here are 3 paintings I just bought from my friend Linda O'Neill.

Yellow Apple

Sprout

Rainstorm

Here is a wonderful painting by Tara Ross that spoke to me as soon as I saw it.

and Carla Sonheim's animal series is wonderful! Here is one of the 6 transfers onto fabric that I purchased. I am not sure what I will sew them onto yet, but I will show you as soon as I do.

Green Dog

Another inspiration to me is the work of my friend, Diana Evans.

Here is a delicious card I just bought from her.

Chocolate Cupcake

Chocolate Cupcake Detail

Another thing I have done this week is to continue to read and work out of my new book that I think all artists should have, I'd Rather be in the Studio, by Alyson Stanfield. One of the best exercises I have done is to write an artist statement. It is a mission statement written for both the artist and the art admirer to clarify what the body of work is about and why it is here.

It may sound like a simple and clear thing to convey on paper, but it can be very difficult to express clearly and concisely.

It is a very powerful exercise to do about anything you are passionate about. Your statement is your vision that you can always read to reconnect to your purpose and focus. Alyson also emphasizes that your statement should be fluid. Allow yourself to comeback and rework it to keep it fresh and relevant to your work.

Here is my Artist Statement:

My pug and dog paintings embody the toothy grins and wagging tails that happily greet us throughout our lives.

I know I have succeeded when my artwork lights up the viewer's eye with a spark of recognition of an old friend. Whether the connection is from childhood or current day, that kind of smile is always contagious.

My passion is working with acrylics on wood. I love how the paint glides across the wood, often revealing a subtle natural grain of the surface below.

Capturing the spirit of each dog for people to deeply connect to and enjoy is the true focus of my efforts.

Please feel free to leave comments. I would love to know your impressions and opinions.

Emmitt says Hi!