A Gentle Spirit
A Gentle Spirit

My first art lesson with Laine was a private one in Marty’s back room studio in the fall of 2013, just a few months after losing Larry.

 

Don’t put a pure color on canvas. Mix to complement (“complete”)


Identify larger spaces, the smaller within.


With #2 brush, cover sketch lines with yellow ochre.


Begin with darkest areas, cover with broad brush strokes (#12 brush). Stroke leave it. Don’t mix on canvas.


Lay out the paints in order, warms facing cools, around the perimeter and use the center to mix.


Build a painting through four layers, starting thin and finishing with the “icing.”


The pages of my notebook filled up fast: how to mix shadows, what makes the best sky, how to blend a good green and a lighter one, how to create the brightest white, what yields gray.

 

My painting journey with Laine thus began, and has continued over nine years, spanning  from Burlington to Gloriosa to Tyler White Gallery to Carlton Gallery to scenic Provence. Her ongoing support and words of encouragement have nurtured my passion and talent.

 

When Laine asked that I paint a small angel holding a lamb, I felt honored and a bit nervous. After all, she was my teacher. I decided not to “think too much” and let the paints shape and blend. They became “Laine colors” of blue, peach, yellow, cream, and resting gray. She was so pleased, and I was thrilled that she wants to have the angel bless her new studio.

 

In an earlier blog, I referenced the writing of Emily P. Freeman and her message to uncover the art we were made to live and to offer it in the presence of others. Through Laine’s mentorship, and divine resources, I am gaining the confidence to “show up in the world” and be who I really am.

 

I titled Laine’s angel “A Gentle Spirit” as tribute to my friend, teacher and mentor. I wrote these words on sheetrock wall of her studio.

 

May your heart dance.

May art be a poem of your creative self.

May your soul glimpse eternity.

 

Love and Friendship

Glenda

 

How is your heart? 

 


Freeman, E. P. (2013). A million little ways: Uncover the art you were made to live. Revell.