Dragon Dance 15x22
Definition of insanity- Doing the same thing over and over yet expecting a different result.
Why would I start this painting over again after just finishing the first version? Simple- I changed my mind about a few things. Isn't that a girls perogative?
First, I decided it was an image of such complex rendering, concentrated color and unique subject matter that it deserved to be bigger.
Second, I became intrigued with the notion that the watercolor could create more interesting smoke than I did. I loved this element in the first painting but I thought of it too late and it was created over the top of other painting in the background painting. While you can't see anything amiss in the smoke, it isn't as organically watercolory ( is that a word?!?!?) as in the second painting. It may not seem as impactful of a change in the photos unless you zoom in or see them in person. Yummy color fusion!
Third, I wanted to take more time and have larger shapes so I could concentrate on creating a beautiful finish. Finishing well is a worthy goal in life as well as in painting. As I am connecting all the lines, smoothing out fields of color, eliminating unwanted brush strokes and properly forming the shapes of objects, I am trying to make the painting look resolved.
I can't help but be reminded as I'm working that this is also my goal in my life. To live my faith in a loving God in a way that my kids and grandkids can someday say, " If that is what a Christian looks like then I want to be one too." Can I be that kind, that loving, that determined to do what's right, especially when it's not convenient or fun? I doubt it, not without His help and a little more humility on my part. Maybe doing something over again is the only way to get it truly right. Connecting the lines and removing the blemishes- who knew that art and life could sometimes overlap?
Come see my show called, East West Fusion, where this painting as well as some others painted from photos I took while visiting China will be featured and on sale. First Friday Art Walk, February 5, at the Pacific Rim Gallerry, 160 E. Broadway.
