My Tribe

While we were out of town we went to see the Russian Moscow Ballet perform. Amazing - how singularly devoted to their art they are. To be at that level takes immense focus and effort - it permeates their life. I have the utmost respect for the effort they had to put in to become such fabulous dancers.

Also, while we were out of town, in a small coastal shop in Oregon, I saw a book published in 1929 by Borlase Smart. A painter (and plein air devotee) from Cornwall England - The Technique Of Seascape Painting. Had to pick that one up. I love some of those old art instruction books from the serious artists of the past - often having little hidden gems of knowledge tucked in the pages from another generation. And in this case, another nation. Can't miss out on that.

I appreciate an artists' effort to pass on their thoughts about art. Borlase Smart worked hard at his craft. Took it very seriously. And wanted to promote the creation of art based on art principles that stand the test of time. I admire that. I wonder if it crossed his mind that artists, across the ocean, in 2011 would still be affected by his words?

In Portland Oregon, we headed to Powell's Books - a really large bookstore that is a favorite destination for us in that area. Of course, we headed to the Art & Architecture section to peruse. Ahhh...so much knowledge on those shelves. So many others who have gone before us, and taken a similar path.

From my last post, you know in Spokane Washington, we headed to the Northwest Museum of Art to see the Impressionist exhibit. (see my last post about that show).

Then I realized - that's my tribe! ALL of the above. I hear a lot about 'my tribe' anymore and this one is mine.

I, too, have art permeating my life. Just like the dancers and the artists of the past. I understand the devotion it takes and the hours of unseen effort. The permeation into your entire life - until you realize it IS your life. Yes, even on "vacation" - what do we do?...try to soak up art. Try to learn more.

I drag along my paints and plein air paint any chance I get - "on vacation". It's not a job. It's a skill that takes an enormous focus and effort to keep building and improving upon. And it takes a certain amount of sacrifice and a lot of hard work to do that.

No, it's not always easy, as it may appear from outside the tribe. The others that have gone before me and walked a similar path, spur me on. I hope I will do the same. They know the effort it takes quite well. They get it. You definitely have to be willing to do the hard work, even sometimes when you don't feel like it. And a lifetime isn't even enough.

We don't go "on vacation", since our job is always with us. The desire to improve and learn more, always deep inside churning away. Always driving me to set up my easel and paint.

So we're back home now, refreshed from new scenes and experiences. With renewed enthusiasm, I'm ready to roll up my sleeves and keep painting in the trenches - because that's just what my tribe does.