“Naturally, the more attention one gives to the deplorable conditions outside the less one is able to enjoy what peace and liberty he (she) possesses. Even if it be heaven we find ourselves in, we can render it suspect and dubious.” Henry Miller, Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymus Bosch, 1957

My contemplation of why art is important to me continues; in my present situation it is the doing of art more than the appreciation of art. Pen, ink, and paint restore some of the “peace and liberty” that my compulsion to read the news takes away.

I have lived in Portland more than anyplace else in the world. Seattle of course comes in second and France third. All three are wonderful places to live; not sure if they are heaven, but forests and fields, the ocean and rocks, and wonderful food are more enticing than floating on clouds anyway. Yet too much attention to the “deplorable conditions” in the world – in my country – can even make these delightful places “suspect and dubious.”

Creating something, or capturing a moment, with my sketchpad, easel, or iPad reminds me of the good, distracts me from the negative, and renews my hope. I trust it is the same for you, even a few unrecognizable lines, or a blob or two of paint can be restorative.

Thank you for following, just knowing there are kindred spirits out there is so important.