Monday, January 18, 2010

Small paintings...

I Will Return, 7 x 11, acrylic on raised panel $135.
(part of my show at Sautee-Nacoochee this month)

For the past month, as I stewed over not having a vehicle, I couldn't seem to get myself working on anything but smaller pieces. I think (subconsciously) I needed to know I could accomplish something every day - and working in smaller formats allowed me to feel productive in the face of uncertainty.

After nearly a month and having replaced several parts as well as the engine or main computer, the problem with my formerly trusty van turned out to be a short under the motor mount that sent surges and/or low voltage to the various electronic parts, eventually ruining most all the switches and a motor or two. It was a bear to find, obviously, as it only occurred during the sort of driving that would cause the motor to rock in the mount (steep hills, hard braking, or revving the engine really high) - none of which I do if I can avoid it! The diagnostic equipment only finds obvious problems - rather like having an x-ray for a metabolic disorder - it ain't gonna show up...

And now after a couple of days of driving about in a rather preoccupied state, I have lost my camera!! Granted it's not the best camera - but the last thing I need right now is an expense, especially one due to my own carelessness.

Carelessness
- now there's a word that really doesn't apply - I care lots! I'm just absent minded and easily distracted when there are lots of people around. I remember being very insulted as a child when I was admonished for carelessness. It was usually a matter of focus, just as it is now.

And without my camera, I cannot post the photographs of some of the newest pieces - so here are a couple I've not posted before...
Black Bird/Black Wind, 12 x 12 drawing in crayon and graphite (nfs)

And this little painting is titled "Renaissance Chick". This was a case of having this funny little ornate frame with only a postcard sized opening. So I painted the chick to go with the frame, thinking no one would ever buy it - and yet, someone did!

Back to painting I must go. I've a deadline for a commission coming up fast.

7 comments:

Roy said...

Ouch on the lost camera! So it wasn't at the gallery, I guess.

I like that top painting, especially carrying the colors into the frame. Nice work!

The little chickie in the fancy frame cracks me up!

Tess Kincaid said...

I love the title of this first painting. So apropos. Lovely pieces, Patrice.

Patrice said...

Roy - It appears the camera is in never never land, meaning I'll likely never find it. There are still a couple of people to check with, but I fear someone picked it up on Friday and decided to keep it.

Hi willow! - I've missed you, and it's all my own fault. I get into this state of mind sometimes when I'm feeling down, where I cannot bear to communicate and I just sort of cocoon myself until it passes. I'm coming over for a cuppa...

Crazy RAvens Studio said...

Patrice, I was wondering where you were. Sorry about the downers but hang in there, tough times don't last (I speak from experience) although sometimes the feel like forever. I love the Renaissance chick!

Anonymous said...

DAMN! I hate that you lost your camera. I love seeing your pictures.

DJ said...

Hey, My Sweet Jawja Friend!
So sorry about the frustrating van repairs...and your camera~ I get very distracted around people, too. Lemme guess: You try to make sure every need is met...
Re the camera, find the funds & treat yourself to a new one!
You deserve it...and it's a business expense for your taxes, of course!
I know you're busy working and doing wonderful things, so stay positive and know you are loved and admired from afar.
Love & Laughter...and HUGS~

Caio Fern said...

aqll this post is so beautiful !!