Art is a Dance

Simply put you need to lead, follow or get out of the way.

The definition of "dance"
Verb-1.move rhythmically to music, typically following a set sequence of steps.
2.(of a person) move in a quick and lively way.
Noun-a series of movements that match the speed and rhythm of a piece of music.

I don't know about you, but this seems pretty spot on about creating works. There isn't a correct way to describe it, but my interpretation is as follows.

Stepping into the studio and starting a piece you can already play out every move, direction, layer and color. You think you are in control and then your work takes the lead. It cannot be argued with and you have to become the follower. Not what you had rehearsed the next moves are hesitant and rigid, but they seem to work. Confidence in this new move become evident and you step back into the lead. Push the direction, it's better than you thought. You're on cue. And you get out of the way. The feeling is elated with the creativity flowing and this beautiful back and forth emerges.

Some artist call this a creative high and look for this inspiration to drive them to create. When in fact you have to just create. Sometimes it leads you and other times you have to lead it. I wish I could say this happens every time I stepped foot in the studio. And you know, it does in some shape or form. Whether it is forced or not.

What spurred this entry was a mid painting stroke. I focused my gaze more than usual on the canvas telling me what to do. Placement of material and exhausting the manipulation of the medium. I craved more of it. But in doing this I needed more time and experimenting. This was the new dance I needed.

My latest series of works "clouds" (as a subject matter) will be retired for a while. It will be available for shows, but there will not be any additions to follow in the near future.

I have to introduce and learn a new dance with my art in the studio, and I look forward to sharing that journey with you. I am now going to get out of the way.

Thank you for reading.