Strange Truth

Strange Truth

"Strange Truth" - acrylic on wood panel, 24" x 28".  Available here and at Artfinder.

The strange truth is that, while we are being battered by existence outwardly, we are, in spite of ourselves, growing inwardly, the way weather causes vegetables to grow. - MARK NEPO, The Exquisite Risk

Another week in the land of introverts, where social distancing is embraced with sighs of relief.  Portlanders know how to be alone. :)

In the studio, the pile of wood panels grows smaller (and not just because Wonder Mike decided they make excellent chew toys) as the paint jars empty.  There is a delicious gloriousness in painting at all hours and looking at the calendar to see days and days of empty squares - nowhere to go and nothing that must be done.  We are growing inwardly, like Nepo's vegetables.

In actuality, we have little control over our time on earth, other than the degree to  which we choose to root ourselves and stand tall before the wind and rain and sun.  As human beings, this translates to being present and staying open.  There are silences which, if entered, will sing. - NEPO

A world of people forced to root and stand tall.  A bazillion abodes with occupants being present.  A bajillion silences to be entered,   All these songs to be sung.  

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​About the painting:  gesso'd grayscale composition with layers of acrylic paint and acrylic mixed with gesso.  Liberal use of scrapers, chopsticks , paper towels and spray bottles of water.  Many thanks to the Facebook critique group, Next Level Artist, for generously providing excellent feedback toward the end of the process and making this piece SING!