I'm back on here after a five year (plus) absence. It's not that I had nothing to write about...au contraire. Much has changed. The trajectory I was on was increasingly downward (societal? yes, monetarily? yes). Some might call it a spiral but it was more of a zig zag, but downwards nonetheless.
At a certain point, I relocated from Westchester County to Brooklyn. Thanks to the generosity of family and friend (and girlfriend), I was able to remain afloat for a while and get "it" together. Things have settled down quite a bit (even though there were a few moves within Brooklyn). Jobs became closer to what I do and have to offer (art related). I can't stress enough how important that is. I have had so many jobs over the years that had absolutely nothing to do with art. I know there are some who feel that this enabled me to put all of my artistic ideas directly into my art. Having been on both sides though, it feels better to have an art job. As a recent arts instructor (for children), I take great satisfaction in imparting art wisdom to them.
My animated work (which is a solo endeavor) is also satisfying, but the nature of the beast is time consumption. Perhaps that is why I've only done three animated shorts (plus one in progress). I have to get back into the music thing (self-taught and extremely DIY-ish). After years (decades?) of trying to be in a loosely-knit "band", I am happily experimenting on a solo basis (although not as much in the past year with my most recent move--but that is changing). I am open to collaborative music making again, but it has to feel right.
Trying to keep this from sounding diary-like or confessional, but perhaps that what a blog is at times. So, back to my artwork. I'm always torn between maintaining a style and full-out experimentation. I find this odd because the artists I admire have a very strong style that runs through their entire body of work. Through the wonder of youtube and online picture archives, we are able to view massive amounts of artwork. I also gravitate towards that which is experimental, and admire artists that are always searching--that takes bravery (of sorts).
Finally, for now, let's all use this alone time wisely (in the midst of the covid-19 home isolation). Listen to doctors and scientists, and stay safe.Love to all, Robert
Photos. Left: Bearded mysterious selfie (2 years ago?). Right: Evening cascade. (I think that's the title) Acrylic on masonite., 2017.
