Dance Class
Dance Class

Last week a few artist friends gathered in the warmth of Gloriosa with an invitation to share a painting and its story and to be ready to create something new on canvas. Interestingly and unknowing to each of us, time at our easels (lifting brushes) had been limited during past months. For various reasons, life circumstances had interfered. Happy circumstances, such as grandbabies and new relationships, had taken precedent, and in some instances, the new beginnings had involved the attempt to redefine our lives without soul mates and loved ones. We were drawn to Gloriosa by the common need to reconnect, be uplifted, and be inspired through art and friendship. Greeted with glasses of French rosé, we shared the experiences of our personal journeys over the previous year.

 

Personally, my year was filled with teaching graduate courses, traveling internationally, and fundraising for cancer families in my community…all positive experiences, but those that had pulled me from the rhythm of my studio. On a couple of occasions, my personal painting style had come under scrutiny, which, in turn, had affected my confidence. I had come to Gloriosa with the hope to reaffirm who I am as an artist among friends how have been my encouragement. During the holidays, Beth had sent me a photograph of step-granddaughter Madeleine at dance class. "Maddie" became my re-inspiration.

 

I am moved by the poetic writing of renown artist, Jill Steenhuis, who reflects on early “desert days” in France and her challenge to reach her personal “Blue Peninsula” (Art, Soul & Destiny: An Artist’s Journey from America to Provence, 2012, p. 79). I believe that artists, at any level of accomplishment, quest to find joy and that they may, at times and for various reasons, struggle. It was important for me to recapture and value what my artist friends fondly refer to as a Glenda painting. A day in Glorisa has filled my heart with its own warmth.