An Artist is an Explorer

by admin on February 5, 2010

“An artist is an explorer. He has to begin by self-discovery and by observation of his
own procedure. After that he must not feel under any constraint.”
-Henri Matisse

"Dreaming of Summer" 50" x 50" work on canvas

"Dreaming of Summer" 50" x 50" work on canvas

Sometimes inspiration comes from the most unexpected places. I am back in my studio exploring a number of new directions. I am always interested in looking at other painters work but sometimes I think it is wise to stop looking at what others are doing and pull the focus back in - look, observe, study, and then forget it all and paint. It is not just other painters that inspire me; I can find inspiration just about anywhere. Finding a new source to explore is always a joy. I am having fun studying and incorporating my finds into my work right now - reminding myself, I “must not feel under any constraint”. Just paint, explore, experiment. It becomes too easy to fall into a pattern of working without pushing the limits. I am always looking for that balance of chaos and order - studying and working. Perhaps there will be only subtle changes or perhaps there will be something quite different in my work. It is way too early to tell where my new inspiration is taking me but this is why I paint.

I am looking forward to a feature show of my work at Gallery KH in Chicago opening in July 2010.

“Painting is like childbirth. It’s a precious gift that is labor intensive and
drains one’s energy. A natural high comes with creation.”
- Debbie DeBaun

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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }

helen 02.06.10 at 7:36 am

inspiration! thank you.

jim puzinas 02.07.10 at 1:19 pm

Inspiration from a true artist! Good luck with your Chicago show this July.

Diane McGregor 02.08.10 at 8:07 am

Deborah,this is a wonderful description of the process, and how lucky we are as painters to be exploring this realm. I love this painting — it’s full of light. Congratulations on your upcoming show!

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