Imagineering... or Envisioning

Looking in the dictionary one finds that "to imagine" can be defined as the ability to make mental images of things not present. The dictionary similarly defines "to envision" as an ability to conceive something as a possibility.

I firmly believe that all serious artists possess both of these qualities, or abilities in larger degrees than many others around them in their daily lives. I also firmly believe that this same group of individuals possesses these "gifts" right from the very beginning of their lives. I believe that it is in "their nature" from the start... but that it is often also recognized early on... nurtured and encouraged by parents, relatives, teachers and mentors who appear along the course of one's journey.

I believe that artists in general, are more curious about and sensitive to the world they live in... the people they meet and the natural rhythm of Nature. How many of us have been asked: "To stop day dreaming"?... or "When are you ever going to grow up"? I have always known that "I" was much more "Child-ish".... capital "C" and hyphen intended, even up until today. "I" ....continue to "see" the world through the eyes of a hopeful... optimistic and trusting child... and for these reasons often am disappointed and am vulnerable to the pessimism and oppression of many adults... if I permit it.

However... "I" choose to move ahead in all areas of my life... and ALWAYS in my Art continuing to search and learn more about my Self... and the wonder-filled world that "I" am privileged and blessed to live in. My art talents and passion DO NOT set "Me" aside from others... because "I" am ALWAYS open to ... and willing to share my findings with any person... regardless of age or ability... so that they might feel the same joy that "I" receive in creating my own work.

Often... "I" create a challenge for my Self... to step outside of the box... "to imagineer"...or to create intuitively from deep within my imagination... without the normal benchmarks we all establish as our "working method".

This post demonstrates one of these exercises. Perhaps it parallels one of your own.. and if not... perhaps it will unlock a new way to channel your Muse. I hope so.I began this exercise after finding a discarded 1/8 inch piece of Masonite... a 9x12 inch gesso-primed a burnt sienna toned panel which had served as a makeshift palette for one of my young students. I sanded it a bit with a rough piece of heavy grit sandpaper... wiped it clean with solvent... set up a new palette of my own... and waited for the sanded panel to dry.

While this was occurring, I put on a CD called "Forest Music"... and just sat listening and looking (as I do outdoors on location) at the "nothing" panel... hoping for a direction or guidepost to emerge. It did not take long to happen. I will not... no... really cannot tell you anything about the process... except that the painting that emerged ..."fairly painted itself"... "I" merely held the brush. How many times have "You" experienced just that? I wonder?

At this point "I' will let the "Voice" who conducts my writing using his words sit down... and let the "Voice" who conducts my painting process explain with his images. "I" think... that though they are silent... they speak as sensitively, fluidly and eloquently as the written word.

"A picture is [indeed] worth a thousand words".

What do "You" think?

"Art Matters!

Good painting... and Imagineering...All!
Bruce

PS The painting "lives" as shown framed in the home of one of my ardent collectors... another "Dreamer"!!!