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| Small study, VClaff 2015 |
I remember stating clearly to a small circle of kindred souls,
that what I desire most is to simplify, to create more time for dreaming
and being, and to be less on my own and more connected to others.
In the last few years, deaths - actual and metaphoric - have left me much
on my own. I trust that my season of letting go has gifts for me - the wisdom
of deep, strong roots and a knowledge of the dark earth underneath, and
maybe some truth yet unknown. Instead of simplifying, the need to bring in
more to pay for my healing, not covered by insurance, has me busier than
ever these last few months. I do hope that there is a way to simplify, be,
dream and create more, and to find my way out of my hermitage.
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| Morning, VClaff, watercolor on paper, 2015 |
Somehow, I found my way back to the studio though, and ideas that
have been incubating for a long time are finding expression. Something in
the small study that wanted more attention came into a larger painting
and I find myself at the edge of the forest, not as much in the deep
woodlands. As always, the small work allows me to explore many directions
and to find my way back into the creative process.
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| small study, VClaff 2015 |
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| small study, VClaff 2015 |
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| small study, VClaff 2015 |
Rhu is a bit of a distraction in the studio, running
in and out through the hanging screens, wanting me
to go out to the forest on beautiful, autumn days.
Maybe when the door is shut and the hearth is
heating, his visits will be to warm up by the stove,
and not jump up on the drying paintings.
At school, we've begun working with eco prints and
contact printing, which this year's class is loving it.
They are very willing to experiment and play and had
a great time with the natural materials.
We had some good results, and will do more dyeing
this week. Their assignment is to use these papers
in finished works incorporating drawing in some way.
Color is bursting out everywhere right now, at times
so amazing I gasp.
And with the color, comes the push to get the wood in.
This weekend was spent stacking the first two cords, always
such a good feeling to see the pile shrink outside the shed,
and become a neat stack inside. This week, the next two
cords will be delivered and go into the shed.
In the in between spaces, there are moments to wander
the garden, finding joy in the small beauties - a hanging
leaf, a stone angel among the rusting ferns, sweet Rhu
enjoying a quiet moment on the stones, and a moment
with moss.
