Art is an outlet for me…like maybe running, or tennis is to others. It gives me a break to release energy and I come out totally refreshed after I’ve completed a painting. I’ve been painting mostly for myself but I started to show them in public when I joined the local artist group over 8 years ago. But I have to admit, I feel very exposed when showing my art. It’s like stepping outside naked. Totally exposed.
I love finding out why people buy art. Is it for investment or because they simply just like it? As an artist, I would hope that they love my work and I take comfort in knowing that something I’ve created will bring something meaningful to someone’s life. There’s nothing quite like meeting complete strangers and having them fall in love with a painting. You can just see it when their eyes go wide and they stop to catch a breathe. I’d prefer that over an interior designer telling someone what will work and won’t in their homes (no offence to my ID friends). To me, the art then just become objects… not objects of desire – hey, I’m a Scorpio so I’m big on passion and emotions.
The artists that I’ve known for years come from all different backgrounds and ages. Some are established and have their works in private collections and galleries. Some are self taught and some have years of learning behind them. Harry Tanner is one of them. He’s a gem of a man who is a purist. He mixes and makes his own oil paints. He studied with the master painters in Europe and his work is unbelievable in detail. I try to find time to visit and chat with him because at his age – he’s got stories to tell.
I try to take in many local art events because they are often more accessible. In Toronto and surrounding areas there are many great events put on by artists groups throughout the year including the Riverdale Artwalk, Yonge Lawrence Artwalk, North York Visual Artists, North Toronto Group of Artists, Wychwood Barns, Cabbagetown, Uxbridge, Beaches Art, The Artists Co-Op and many, many more!
The Yonge Lawrence Artwalk is on now if you have a chance to venture to this community. There are over 60 participating artists that will be showcasing their original works of art in the stores and businesses from now until November 1st and it’s FREE! And it’s a great way to spend a sunny afternoon admiring the creativity! The public is also invited to vote for their favourite art on display for the People Choice Award online.
If you’re interested in learning more about the art world, the artists will be holding a series of Artist Afternoon Teas called ART DECONSTRUCTED at a local creperie & tea shop T-BUDS. This is a great series of talks with the artists while enjoying foods & drinks. A worthy afternoon rather than watching the reality shows I’ve PVR’d, don’t you think?
The Artwalk leads into the annual fall show of the North Toronto Group of Artists on November 2nd & 3rd. For more information on their show please visit North Toronto Group of Artists official website.
For more information on the Yonge Lawrence ARTWALK and to vote for the People’s Choice Award, visit www.yongelawrencevillage-bia.com
I can’t wait till things start settling down again and I can get back to the art studio and paint again. It’s a great stress buster for me.
How about you, what is our OUTLET? …and I’m not talking shopping! That’s for another post!
yep! that’s mine! 🙂
I absolutely LOVE that painting witht the poppies that you’ve posted here. It’s one of yours, right?