Changing Roles

My first exposure to figure drawing came in college where a lifelong appreciation of the discipline began. For the next three decades still life painting dominated my work but whenever possible I sought out live figure sessions. Until very recently the last ten years have been devoted predominately to the figure.

Portrait Study, oil pastel on toned paper
10" X 7", 2016

Throughout each stage figurative work played distinct roles in my development as an artist. First as an exciting learning exercise. Then as a welcome break from the solitude and static nature of still life. Most recently the figure has provided a much needed compelling and difficult challenge. Now I am aware of the figure taking on a new role as the binding agent to all my artistic pursuits.

Labels (part two)

I didn't drop the title "professional" artist without some deliberation and sole searching. I had few concerns regarding what others would think but was unclear how I would react. Now, after nearly three years, the consequences of this change are clear - there isn't any real downside. It turns out I have been drawing and painting for so long that no label will change how, what, or why I paint. Ultimately how you define yourself is what matters.

Standing Nude, oil on linen, 18" X  9",   2006

One morning a few weeks back I woke up not really in the mood to paint. I'm a hobby artist after all and don't need to go to work if I don't want to. Problem is I was nearing the end of a long term painting that is season sensitive and the summer light was waning fast. So I hit the street and ended up having a very productive plein air session. Walking home that afternoon I never felt more professional.

Labels (part one)

Hobby artist. For someone who has devoted their life to drawing and painting it would be hard to find a more derogatory term. But that is what I officially am now. I quit being a "professional" artist three years ago when I could no longer muster the will to keep detailed business records. It wasn't that the task was particularly daunting I just resented the time it took away from my work. So I stopped checking the sole proprietor box on my income tax form and started checking "hobby artist".

Two Models, oil pastel, 14" X 10", 2012

I'm not breaking any tax laws with this change. In fact the new designation is a good fit for my current circumstances. My main takeaway from this exercise is that how you define yourself is more important than any official label. I will elaborate in my next post.