My daily routine of creating quick abstract paintings has taken on new meaning for me lately.   I remember coloring with crayons in the basement in Ferndale, even before I started kindergarten.  My current practice feels kind of like that. 

I try not to think about composition. Even if I unintentionally create with composition in mind, I’m going to dissect the piece eventually anyway. It frees me from taking the process too seriously, and it leaves me with surprises at the end. The process is not precious, but sometimes the result is. 

The unbridled approach honors the young version of me, and reminds me that he’s still here. An adult approves of him 100%, and loves him exactly as he is. While I treasure him, he enriches me.

I’ve said that this “automatic painting” style results in something that feels like it was painted by someone else. I can look at it later as an onlooker. Now I know who the someone else is.

Here’s a song for my inner child.

LOKAKUU PROJEKTI: JOS VOISIN:

If I could, I would always tell the truth
I would always love you from the heart
If I could, I would take you in my arms
Take you inside, into my heart

If I could, I would be the place you turn
When you’re feeling lonely or afraid
I would shine like a lantern in the dark
Take you inside, into my heart

When you feel as if you don’t know who you are
I’ll remind you with my love

If I could, I would always keep you safe
Take you inside, into my heart

When you feel as if you simply can’t go on
I’ll remind you that you’re strong

If I could, I would love you as you are
Take you inside, into my heart
Into my arms, into my life