Sketchbook blog

January arrived as a difficult month for many.   I have had several friends, family members, and acquaintances on my mind as they wrestle with "quiet desperation."   Over the holidays I focused on a few simple words from carol verses, and one of the most meaningful words was "comfort." Aren't we all in need of comfort?   "Joy" is another concept that seems far off for those going through dark times.  But we can hope for joy, which will arrive only after  comfort has perfected its healing work. My wish for you today is that you find comfort, even in uncertain and turbulent times. ----- There is a Balm in Gilead Sometimes I feel discouraged and think my work’s in vain, But then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again. There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole; There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul.  - Spiritual, sung by Jessye Norman and Kathleen Battle

Today my workshop students are recharging their creative batteries again by researching artists who inspire them.  Today, our focus is on Gustav Klimt , a celebrated painter of the Vienna Secession. I hope you enjoy a couple of videos I have selected on this outstanding and groundbreaking artist. The Kiss  by SmartHistory (Khan Academy) Goodbye Art Academy short bio of Klimt Who is Gustav Klimt? One thing I had not realized about Gustav Klimt is that he took a 5 year break from the public view of the art world after the death of his father and younger brother. During this time, his art became much more personal and less concerned with what was fashionable. At times, we all face difficulties that cause us to look inward. Klimt used these difficult times to communicate something real and meaningful to him in his work. I hope you that this insight bolsters your belief in yourself and in your evolving work. No artist (not ...

Today, the students in my workshop are recharging their creative energies before they come to the very last couple days (and have to turn in their project). Henri Matisse:  A Cut Above the Rest To inspire them, I shared a few excellent videos on the work of Matisse. Tomorrow, I'll post the same for Klimt's work. I hope you enjoy these videos, and that they inspire you to delve fearlessly into color, shape, and form. MATISSE MOMA video intro to Matisse Exhibition Conserving The Swimming Pool The Cut Outs Enjoy!