I do not know from where the images that I paint come. They usually start as an idea, a phrase, that sticks with me until it becomes such an irritant that I must exorcize it by transforming the idea or phrase into imagery.
This is not a process of immediacy and can sometimes take years to formulate and bring to focus.
I rarely sketch my paintings out before putting brush to canvas. As the images begin to congeal in my mind I mentally play with imagery, blending metaphor with character and color. Once a composition solidifies I begin to paint but, as with all creative processes, the resulting product has little to do with the original intent.
Creating art, in whatever form, is an exhilarating but exhausting process. The physical application of paint is easy, it is the constant evaluation and reevaluation of the statement that is so tiresome. Often the initial image, which had seemed so perfect at the time of its inception, turns out to be muddled and confused. Instead of speaking with a clear and singular voice, the image mumbles along in an arrhythmic discordance. At this point frustration mounts and everything comes to a screeching halt. When calm returns, the process begins anew.
As much as I abhor the rhetoric of judgment and divisiveness, I understand the requirement that all philosophies be given the opportunity to be heard, and to be held accountable for the inaccuracies of their proclamations. It is when any organization or agency begins the process of infringing upon these inalienable rights of the individual that my hackles are raised. Especially when the excuse is as inane and feeble as a need to protect us all from some ill-defined and omnipotent phantom.
I do not expect or believe it is possible to live a life free of risk. Anyone professing the contrary is lying. Modern times are no more inherently dangerous than any other time in human history. There have always been risks and dangers around each of us. The secret is not to let those risks and dangers direct our behavior to the point of paralysis.
Please don't hesitate to ask any questions about my projects. Send all inquiries to deluque@charter.net
LIVE LIFE JOYOUSLY & SPEAK YOUR MIND
