So it's been a long time since I have posted, and I apologize for that. One of the reasons is, I have been working on several paintings, but they are just not at the finished state I envisioned.
I was getting ready to send a portrait of Kevin in to London for the BP portrait competition. But something just felt WRONG. I wasn't happy with the portrait. It wasn't near the level of perfection I had in mind when I began it. So I called some friends, and they agreed. Ted gave me some TERRIFIC advice.
Basically, this is the journey of a LIFETIME. I shouldn't rush. I will be painting until I am 90, and viewed that way, this competition is just a blip on the journey. I shouldn't sacrifice my vision just to accomplish a smaller goal along the way. I was reading the comments of some artists who won prizes for the BP portrait competition, and I was struck by one comment in particular. The artist mentioned he had been working 2 YEARS on his portrait. While I probably won't spend such a long time on this painting, this comment does help to shed some light on the matter.
I will be posting the paintings here when they are finished. I am really feeling at peace and strangely energized by my decision. I wouldn't have been happy with myself if I had sent in half an effort to such a prestigious event. Not to mention, investing over $70 for shipping!
Meanwhile, the long hours in the studio continue....
