I had the opportunity to listen to some beautiful cello music in Portland over the weekend.  I was so moved, and inspired by the music!  Thankfully I had my sketch pad and pencil in my bag (I take it everywhere I go).  While I listened to the music I sketched.  Isn't that what every artist does when they're moved and inspired during a concert? 

I'm happy to say that my artwork will be in another gallery.  I'm looking forward to being part of a wonderful community of artists at Love Art Gallery in SE Portland.  If you're in the Portland area check it out.  http://www.loveartgallery.net/

“Unseen”

 When I started this painting I was filled with self doubt.  I was fearful about the changes occurring in my life, and I was feeling like I had no control.  I wanted to bury my head in the sand, and shield my eyes from the perceived doom and gloom.  I was even ready to pack away my paints and brushes, wondering if my life long dream of supporting myself as an artist would always remain just that - - a dream, only to be enjoyed as I sleep.

I love to spend time on the beach, listening intently to the ocean sounds, hopeful I will find answers along with the comfort derived from my time spent there.  I began this piece with a sketch of a woman (me) on the beach.  Because of many fears and doubts I drew her covering her eyes from the life all around her.  I gave myself a little pep talk as I painted the threatening sky, and I reminded myself to breathe.  “Just breathe.  Think happy thoughts,” I encouraged myself.  “With every deep breath think peace.”  I remembered my thoughts have power.  Our thoughts help create our reality.  So I painted gentle seas and sail boats - - smooth sailing.  As I continued to focus on my breathing, and the sailboats sailing effortlessly I was reminded of the power that an image has on emotions, and in turn on our vibrations that we send out into the world.

Painting has always been a form of meditation for me, and even more so with this painting..  As I painted./meditated “messages” began to emerge, and a bottle in the sand.  Answers to my silent questions.  All I need to do is uncover my eyes.  I then became aware of that space between the beginning of my painting, and the finishing touches . . . “between the inhale and the exhale, palette and the canvas, the hands and creation.”

It dawned on me that I am living in that space between the inhale and exhale . . . as I paint.

Helvi Smith Art Gallery/Studio
1914 Elm Street
Forest Grove, Oregon 97116
Noon - 5pm - over 15 artists will be here - food and drinks and fun!

This is a really fun event, and worth the drive to Forest Grove!