An Artful Weekend

Sometimes choices must be made between art and writing. This weekend was one of those times.

The Virginia Romance Writers was holding an all-day workshop, "Writing Body Language and Dialogue Cues Like a Psychologist," presented by Margie Lawson, a psychotherapist and international presenter. What an outstanding opportunity for writers! However, it was an all-day commitment. Over many years, I have neglected my art in favor of writing. This year, I have resolved to spend more time painting and selling my artwork.

Jorge Diaz explains his method painting sunflowers ©MMSikes

The Metropolitan Richmond Artist Association had a demonstration by artist Jorge Diaz during that same time period. However, the time commitment was much less, only about two hours. I chose the art presentation.

It always amazes me how connected the two disciplines are--art and writing. Diaz started out talking about his connection with Joseph Campbell. Over the years, I've heard many writers speak of a similar connection. Diaz described the art we make as a "reflection of the light we have inside." How many authors have I known who sign books, "Light and Love"? Many.

I enjoyed watching the Diaz demonstration and learning that he often creates a painting with acrylics and completes it with oil paint. Years ago, I did the same thing.

No title yet...

 Petersburg Regional Art Center also had its open house, and I took advantage of the opportunity to work on a painting. Recently, I've started several paintings using pastels as my medium, then I complete them with acrylic paints in my studio. I especially enjoy working with images that represent outer space to me--especially the circular forms of planets. This painting began as I looked at a portion of a fractal image and grew from there.

As Jorge Diaz noted, "Art is a reflection of the light we have inside." I hope my new paintings will be a reflection of that light.

Sometimes choices must be made. We can only hope, they are the correct ones.

--Mary Montague Sikes