"Thoughts on Walks"
watercolor and colored pencil on paper
8 x 8 inches
Those of you that know me... know that I've been helping out my mom as she deals with acute myelogenous leukemia, and the stroke she suffered because of it. I've been here in Honor, Michigan for just over 8 months (with a few quick trips home). I really feel lucky to be in the position to be able to do this for her. It is a gift to be able to help out where it's needed and appreciated.
Though, obviously there are some challenging parts to helping out a sick parent. One thing that's kept me somewhat sane and calm are my walks in the "Sleeping Bear Dune National Lake Shore" park. I can walk from the house straight down a dirt road that leads to Lake Michigan.... On some days I won't see another soul for the hour and a half it takes me. Imagine that! The most beautiful forest that leads to the dunes and then the lake in all it's magnificence enjoyed in complete solitude (other than the wildlife...and occasionally Ranger Jim). I listen to my Ipod... and have a notebook and pen for the wonderful insights that seem to pop into my head during these long walks. I really feel quite lucky.
The watercolor was painted from memory...and then the word stream that seems to ramble out of my head, was added with colored pencil. I can't even really read it, since I chose a pencil close in value and tone to the painting.
7 comments:
Hi Lauren, I'm glad you have your walks; take care!
nice work and the words make a lovely supporting vignette...
Thanks Peggy and joel... It's amazing how the colors constantly change there... large bodies of water are so interesting...
really a vista to remember and think about...the words suggest the artists thoughts...and lets you create your own "stream of thoughts" upon viewing the painting.....memorable...different for you as well.............!!!
Lauren, thanks for your message on my blog. You know it's hard...
I love this painting, and the words written over it. What a wonderful idea. Thanks for sharing it!
I'm amazed you can make art while being a caregiver. I found this very difficult both for my mind not focusing and for lack of space. Those walks of yours are wonderful for you spirit, body, and art making as you're observing nature. These observances will make their way into your work, as you already demonstrated.
anonymous.... thanks, though I've used obscured words in pencil before, never quite the same as I've done here... Appreciate your comment.
Kate... Hope you are doing as well as can be expected... thanks
Patrice... Thanks... the walks are saving me. It is really the most beautiful place. I've created a lot of 'debris' along with the occasional thing that I'll show. The act of painting is saving me too. I move my head into a different place and can completely forget the 'stuff' that's happening. Glad you are home safe.. Look forward to getting together at some point.
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