“Too much stuff” -- and More!

"Kindred Spirits II" 24x30 acrylic on canvas Today’s Guest Blogger is Robert Genn* Recently, Ed Kissane of Wantagh, New York wrote, "I'm constantly fighting a flood of paper that comes into my life. I have a bedroom and a studio and I try to keep the areas clear, but it grows every day like a giant amoeba. I try to downsize but I'm losing. The piles of paper diminish my time at the easel. (Magazines, book reviews, etc.) There is always something to read and once again the creative moments lose out. Any suggestions?" Thanks, Ed. Whenever I hear this one I think "avoidance system." I once knew a painter who subscribed to all the magazines, including ones in foreign languages he didn't understand. His wholesale subscriptions kept him easel-free for several decades. One day he thought he might paint, but it was too late. That night he subscribed to the big bundle in the sky. "Moody Blues" 16x20 oil on acrylic underpainting canvas  For self-employed artists, desire needs to trump distraction. Even regular checks in the mail shouldn't hinder an artist from his self-appointed rounds. There's something else as well. Too many art magazines may be bad for you. It's great to keep informed of the latest trends in New York, London and Paris, but what about the trending of your own creativity? Too much awareness of what's out there can give an artist a dose of, "What's the use? If everybody else is so wonderful, what chance is there for little old me?" "Kindred Spirits I" 24x30 acrylic on canvas How does one act against these common self-destructive tendencies? Taking into account that personal progress may have something to do with available talent or ego-drive, here are a few ideas: ·         Begin work before you're fully awake. ·         Name and claim your own creative processes. ·         Fall in love with your daily work habits. ·         Take time for creative novelty and exploration. ·         Teach yourself the arts of multitask and multi-track. ·         Alternate energetic activity with relaxation and calm. ·         Live in the work of your own making, not that of others. ·         Pencil in projects and set the unconscious mind turning. ·         Have your magazines delivered somewhere else. The story of individual progress is largely one of moving from the business of being entertained to the business of entertaining yourself. Blessed are those whose main entertainment is their work. "First Daffodil" 16x20 acrylic on canvas PS  Esoterica: I'm laptopping you from Yu Yuan (Garden of Peace and Comfort) in Shanghai, China. Koi circle among the yellow and white lotus as a rhododendron drops petals, forming a miniature fleet that moves slowly away on the stillness of the pond. A green heron waits for my thoughts from a nearby rocky ledge, and I'm remembering a kiosk just outside the dragon wall hawking magazines and newspapers printed in Mandarin and Cantonese. Alone in this inner fragrance, I'm considering the nature of passion. Featured Responses: Alternative to the instant Live Comments, Featured Responses are illustrated and edited for content. If you would like to submit your own for possible inclusion, please do so. Just click 'reply' on this letter or write to rgenn@saraphina.com

*(c) Copyright 2013 Robert Genn. If you wish to copy this material to other publications or mail lists, please ask for permission by writing rgenn@saraphina.com. Thanks for your friendship.

The New “Craze” – Painting on Glass

I’ve actually tried it; painted on glass, that is. I painted a pelican using acrylic paints. On the underside of the glass, I painted the water and some clouds. When it was dry, I cut blue card stock for the backing and added a frame. It wasn’t the most exciting painting I’ve done, but I was delighted with how the paint adhered to the cold glass and how easy it was to paint feathers and details.

(Drawing of Bella)

Glass painting has become a popular hobby. From painting wine glasses to adding a personal touch to pottery or plates, artists and craftsmen are discovering how easy it is to paint on glass.

I’ve also painted on mirrors which works the same way and there’s no need for a backing. If you want to add a tropical theme in a bathroom, or a vintage flare in a kitchen, painting on a mirror or the glass doors of a cupboard is fun and rewarding. The surface is cold and allows the paint to “gel” rather than run. Fine details stay put and the results are stunning.

It was the store Michael's that called this art form a new “craze.” Painting on wine glasses is the latest thing in Hostess Gifts because it adds your own personal signature and shows that you care. Other ideas and suggestions for painting on glass are found on a link I've provided below.

Painting on glass is a plus for artists because it makes affordable items for sale at boutiques and art shows. The designs can be more sophisticated than a stenciled design by adding an original twist that makes your artwork distinctive. Many artists have designed glass Christmas ornaments for sale during the holidays.

"Bella Bellissimo" Work in Progress

Painting on floor tiles that are naturally cold benefits from the same principles. Tiles are heavier than a canvas, but smaller. Sticky tabs for hanging can be placed on the back, and they make delightful mini canvases. 

I’ve not only painted on tiles, but I’ve printed some of my drawings and designs on decal paper and used medium gel to secure them to the tiles. Adding another coat or two of gel makes a nice glossy finish.

(My next painting will be "Kindred Spirits")

If you want a frame, simple modeling paste can be swirled or twisted around the edges and covered with a glossy paint. I personally like white on white so that my painting or decal stands out.

(Simplistic charcoal  drawing on 24 x 30 canvas)

If you haven’t tried it you should. It’s downright fun and satisfying. 

Here’s a link for more tips and information: Glass Painting Tutorial