There Is Always Hope

Sometimes an image comes out of nowhere – not planned or deeply contemplated, it just emerges. That is exactly the case with this one. So much so I couldn’t even put a title to it. It always puzzles me when this happens and I begin searching for its origins – it usually has to do with my own emotions.

This year I have faced a series of difficulties, none of them disastrous, but each setting me back. At times it seems like I am running through darkness, maybe a tunnel or an alley. My legs are tired and it is difficult to make progress, like running through water.

I believe this image is my own artistic encouragement to myself. Though the situation may feel dark with narrow walls, and my feet may feel heavy, make the best of the situation, and play in the water.

You Lift Me Higher

I’ve been thinking about those people in my life that lift me up when I need it most. I recently had a knee replacement, and while it is a common surgery, recovery is painful and lengthy. I needed people in my life that would lift me when I felt down, encourage me when I wanted to give up, and tell me something funny when I cried. This is a tribute to those people.

I have learned something from this. Sometimes I know someone who is down, but I don’t know what to say, so I say nothing. I don’t want to seem intrusive so I avoid. I realize now how important it is to hear a friendly voice, receive a kindly worded note, or just to hear the voice of someone who cares.

You Lift Me Higher, February, 2019

Hustle on the Hudson

The Hudson is teaming with various ships, boats and barges all scurrying about their business of moving people, transporting cargo or patrolling this busy river.  A flotilla that consists of everything from the monstrous cruise ships to the micro kayaks graces the waves of the “Great North River”, once discovered by the Dutch but previously occupied by Natives.

Among the hustle of the river are the tugs.  They are the servants of the seas, the labors of the harbors and the toughest, hardest working on the river.

Every year the Working Harbor Committee celebrates these tough guys with an event honoring their craft. The Tug Boat Races.  Actually it is more than a race.  The event includes a nautical version of arm wrestle, a show of colors, and a demonstration of skills.   The 2018 Tugboat races are arriving September 9 on Pier 84 beginning at   10:30.  Hope you make it.

 

Artist Inspirations: Edward Hopper

I recently came across an image titled Approaching A City by Edward Hopper.  The painting has simple lines, intriguing colors, and a story to tell.

Studying the paintings of masters I begin to ask myself, how the techniques would be applied to my medium, photography-based digital art.

Here is Hopper’s piece that inspired my effort.

“Approaching a City” Edward Hopper

Montserrat Contemporary Art Gallery

In Chelsea the first Thursday in each month is known as Gallery Crawl.  Most galleries in the area open their doors, provide offerings of cheese and wine, and promote their latest exhibits to the world.  It is a fun evening for the serious buyer or the casual observer who just wants the free wine.

Thursday, August 2 is my turn to participate.  I have eight pieces appearing in a show, Expressions of Life, at the Montserrat Contemporary Art Gallery in Chelsea.  For me, this is a big event.

Opening Night is Thursday Aug 2, 6:00-8:00PM.  The show will run through August. If you are in the area we would love to meet you.  The gallery is located 547 W. 27th street in Chelsea, NYC.

 

Architectural Mix

Walking the sidewalks, I am frequently stunned as I look up to see the next new skyscrapers shining high above the century old flats, the surrounding structures reflecting on their glassy skins.

Focused on the architectural mix, my mind soon wanders to the stories the aging buildings could tell, the fate of their future, and the lives that are connected to them.  Then, looking up to the new structures I wonder what they will be like when they become the old and something new is replacing them.

Our lives are all connected then and now.  Shared memories, a common view slightly altered, the sidewalks we walk.

Looking at these buildings I wonder who is/was/will be on the other side of the window.