Never Stop Learning

After about two weeks of daily struggle and disappointment with nearly a dozen wipe off paintings,  I finally let this one stay on the canvas. I don't know what my problem has been. Perhaps lack of inspiration as the hot days of summers end lay heavily upon us and seem to sap both strength and creativity. Or just one of those cycles where the paint brush and the mind of the artist are not in sync. I have found that the best way to get through these down times is not to obsess too much but to just keep on painting. My experience is that eventually you will break through. And so I am hoping this odd little portrait will be my first step on the road back.

HG Wells / oil on chipboard / 12 x 12

 I also treated myself to an hour or so inside Barnes & Noble - still a favorite place - and picked up this little gem of an art book.

I have only just begun to go through it but am discovering that, after a brief introduction, there are lessons and philosophical meandering by many of the instructors at the Art Students League of NY. Each lesson is unique, thoughtful and quite practical. I am thoroughly enjoying this book!