Adding Self -care to the Schedule
I’m an emotive and intuitive painter. Non-Artists are thinking what on earth does that mean buddy? Meaning my current mood and feelings influence my creative choices directly. From the color choices I make, to the line quality of my sketch, to the tools I choose to apply the paint. It is all related to my current state of mind. As an artist that works with folks on private commissions I needed to figure out a way to negotiate this reality. Bad things happen and I am not a robot. Do you remember 2020? How do you paint happy when you feel sad? I'll tell you how, don't work on commissions on those days. When I accept a commission I add an additional week to how long it will actually take me to finish the piece. Clients are thrilled when they receive their work ahead of time, and I if something awful happens or I feel off I have made time to take care of myself. This past week was a difficult one for me and I focused on painting though my feelings. I give you - MOM LIFE SON
MOM LIFE SON 36 x 12 mixed media on canvas, MG Stout, 2021
The palette is limited and the imagery is female, musical, and introspective. Its very personal and kinda feels like a self portrait. The companion piece is very similar and called MOM LIFE DAUGHTER. While creating this type of work I was mining through many "gray issues" which I now see quite literally on the picture plane. It also features a women looking up to the heavens. Plus a bunch of other things are being revealed now that I look at it as a completed piece and not an exercise.
MOM LIFE DAUGHTER, 36 x 12, mixed media on canvas, MG Stout 2021
Balancing work and family is a tricky dance for many of us. This idea of having it all. We all chase it, but we need to define what it all means to each of us individually. For me it means working towards my personal and professional goals. It's the process, the act of living, of caring for yourself and others. Celebrating little victories like not burning the toast to closing a huge deal. It's being fully present in both arenas while in that space.
Peaks and valleys friends. Life Is full of them. Rather than dwell in the dark find your light. It’s your choice. If you feel sad lean into that feeling. Hang out with it for a day. Skipping and skirting the sad won’t make it go away. Learn from it. Cry with it. Then start anew tomorrow.