Helen
Helen

Helen Farson’s smile lights up any room…or vineyard. This painting is my vision of Helen's angelic beauty, taken from a photograph near Christel’s villa in Provence. It is a gift to celebrate her and her birthday.

 

Helen’s enchanting sanctuary Gloriosa Studio and Garden in Greensboro, NC is a mecca for art students, young and older. To enter the blue door is to step into visual delight…paintings, some unfinished, decorate the walls, floor to ceiling, easels are arranged, cheerful quotes speak and art supplies in abundance. A vase of cheery sunflowers, soft blue hydrangea or breathtaking white roses, carefully arranged with a couple of green pears and purple cherries, might await Helen's demonstration…and the day's challenge for workshop participants. To study with Helen is to bask in sunlight and to be immersed in an experience enhanced by philosophical wisdom of life. Students not only learn technique but also something about what it takes to become an artist. 

 

Dance the line between skill and joy.

 

There are no mistakes in painting…eventually you will find a path.

 

Let your brush turn, curve, dance and play. Be fearless, simplify and use tuition.

 

Your best mode of transportation is a leap of faith. Live on the edge.

 

Painting is easy. Painting well, hard.

 

And with these words adapted from Mary Oliver’s “Instructions for Life”:

 

            Pay attention

            Be astonished

            Draw or paint about it!

 

For ten years Helen has been a teacher, mentor and friend. She admittedly has a love affair with plump, ripened figs, savors crisp Rosé and relishes macarons, especially from Ladurée. She firmly believes that pink should be in every painting and that every painting should hold a little mystery. She also emphasizes that painting is not for sissies: it involves passion, dedication, consistent practice and patience. To Helen, painting is a quest for JOY. Her love of life and zest for living bring joy to those around her, and her words continue to inspire.

 

Everyday God gives you a gift.  You just have to untie the ribbons.  

 

How is your heart?