An Omen to Behold

This happened many months ago, before the summer of 2014. I came home from work, exhausted. I lied down to rest and this caught my attention.

In my old room, I mounted my paintings on the wall, purely to enjoy looking at the fruits of my creativity. It was that fateful afternoon, when a light from a setting sun strayed into the blinds and to my artwork, A Phantom in my Slumber.

I considered this as an omen. 

From that day on, I promised myself never to wander away from my artistic pursuit. You see, I always say I'll finish my Master's first, or write my report, prepare an exam, or let my depression run me over. Lately, or for the last year, these pursuits have exhausted me. Each day, I told myself, this isn't the right time.

There is one thing I realized after all these years. The right time is not somewhere in the future. The right time is now. If I don't act on my dreams now, life will just pass me by like an old silent movie. I'll get old and sadly wondered how it feels to follow another avenue of dreams. 

From that day on, I started painting again. Months later, I made several abstract pieces and three of which are up for sale. As of this writing, one piece has been sold, and another has been reserved and being prepared for shipment.

I know the coming months will be exhaustive. Choices would have to be made. And there will be times, I'll fall off the wagon. But I know, I can dust myself down and get back on again. 

For now, I'm just glad I am starting to live my life. 

A Weekend Mix

Most of my works were mostly done by charcoal, watercolor, and acrylic. I hadn't done anything that mixes different media. Inspired by an Indian artist, Ajay De whom I have read over a copy of Reader's Digest, I decided to use acrylic paints and charcoal in my piece.

I was thinking of what could be my possible subject when it dawned on me that I haven't made a follow-up on my post A Preview to Nude Art. This would also be an opportunity for me to practice on my figure drawing, particularly on my proportion problem. 

It helps that a lot of fine art nude photography websites are available today. I scouted for my subject that I could draw and incorporate a part of  my concept in it. I decided to choose a photo entitled Apples by Imants Silkans (Kindly click on the name to direct you to the website.) done in black and white.

During the whole weekend, I labored on this piece. The best part was doing the charcoal. Before, I used a torchon or a spreader to disperse the charcoal and create interesting shadows. Now, I used my hands! They got dirty; like charcoal powders were found underneath my nails but it was so much fun! When using hands, powderize first the charcoal before applying and spreading it on paper.

And now, here it is:

A Phantom in my Slumber

As each element was added, a piece of me was taken as well. Yet, when I looked at the progress I made and now, its finished look, I feel happy and light. Something that I would carry with me as I start another week and face another challenges at work.