tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post3939660342693930249..comments2024-01-18T02:29:43.020-07:00Comments on Art Talk - Julie Ford Oliver: Reflections #2...and call for help!juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-25178825583396126232015-05-13T08:18:55.330-06:002015-05-13T08:18:55.330-06:00Yes - we all do go through the different stages. G...Yes - we all do go through the different stages. Glad you came bu and cant wait to see what you post.juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-22875217262948561832015-05-13T08:18:12.154-06:002015-05-13T08:18:12.154-06:00It does not show through in your amazing work, Dia...It does not show through in your amazing work, Diana, honest!<br />From all the sharing by so many fellow artists, I see a common struggle. <br />This was not a block we discussed this was something at our very core.<br />Most people who use hand, mind, eye coordination seem to experience<br />a similar problem. Look at Tiger Woods for example. It goes beyond the physical doesn't it. I am not going into the artist greats who have struggled but the stories are there. Mine was more of a physical as well as a mental...but which came first?<br />A genuine big thanks for sharing, Diana. <br />juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-78150008072848491112015-05-13T08:09:10.419-06:002015-05-13T08:09:10.419-06:00Sharon. You gave me much food for thought here. I ...Sharon. You gave me much food for thought here. I love your honest and willingness to share. I understand the "pressure" you express so well but I do take time off when it gets too much. I expect to have pressure and with the teaching I do it is a busy schedule, but worthwhile as it feeds me emotionally. I think my years as an illustrator prepared me for constant pressure to wind up my arm every day and produce no matter what and yes...you are correct, heartfelt moments are saved for my nest paintings and watercolors which I do not even try to sell. I think I balance it out. This time it is different. Like I forget how to paint.<br /><br />Thanks for the recommendation to listen to V Cobb. LOVED IT!<br />juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-54003844316947123122015-05-11T16:12:32.771-06:002015-05-11T16:12:32.771-06:00Just linked in from Lynne hoppe's blog. I hav...Just linked in from Lynne hoppe's blog. I have been feeling the very same for about a month and am on the brink of posting pics of my 'failed' work lately, or at least the process of the different stages the work - and I - go through. So I really appreciate your post!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10390635173063351878noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-71936035875325776492015-05-06T21:53:09.416-06:002015-05-06T21:53:09.416-06:00Julie, I've been thinking about this post for ...Julie, I've been thinking about this post for over a month. I can identify with your bewilderment. I've had an identity crisis about my art and my abilities for several years now. It's been a struggle to work through most pieces, although, thankfully, there have been a few that brought me much joy to paint. But many pieces not only did not bring me joy or even satisfaction, but rather left me shaken to the core, questioning my abilities. These struggles, as hard as they are, do raise viable questions. I don't have the answers yet but, some days, I do have hope that there will be good from all this heartache.Diana Moses Botkinhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06254521493118166524noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-14351419135971501892015-04-07T12:32:08.768-06:002015-04-07T12:32:08.768-06:00Hi Julie: you are probably out of the fog by now, ...Hi Julie: you are probably out of the fog by now, but I have really appreciated the comments offered here in love. Personally, I found the pressure of blogging and teaching really got in the way of my love of painting. I loved teaching, and it is only after stopping doing so much teaching, that I have begun to find my 'voice' again. I also stopped posting so much (went to the 'per click' payment plan at DP, so that the pressure of the expense wasn't adding needless pressure). I feel FREE now, to paint and not to paint. The 'machine' comments are very valid, we do tend to get stuck on the 'produce and sell' wheel. I loved that you were totally honest about your situation, and by the response, I would say good for you. We need more transparency and sharing to help each other see our way through this crazy life we have chosen. I totally get it that you are painting good paintings that are lacking the heart you wish was there. In the end it really doesn't matter what anyone else thinks!<br />I just listened to an interview with artist Virginia Cobb on the Creative Catalyst site that was very enlightening -see if you can give it a listen!Sharon Lynn Williams Fine Arthttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00726267948612291474noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-65277135491323772992015-04-05T21:54:44.558-06:002015-04-05T21:54:44.558-06:00Thanks, Celeste. I agree with a lot of what you sa...Thanks, Celeste. I agree with a lot of what you said and I have known for many years that the "creative" person has their ups and downs. Have experienced them myself, but I did not think this painting was a bad painting - just that it wasn't anything I could have a sense of response to. Difficult to explain but it has been different than anything before. It has helped reading the all the responses and I have already started to try some of the things suggested. I draw a lot anyway and it is easy to continue. I like the way you put it - less weighty!"<br />Did Monet REALLY say that? It shows the universal struggle of the creative heart is part of a natural progression. He certainly knew he was successful in his later years.<br />I guess he meant it was at managing to paint what he knew he was capable of because I remember him also saying - never to paint until you saw it clearly in your head and also the design and method. Words to that effect. <br />Thanks for the visit, Celeste. <br /><br /><br />juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-8721342690285138702015-04-05T20:23:41.963-06:002015-04-05T20:23:41.963-06:00I really enjoyed all the replies here. I don't...I really enjoyed all the replies here. I don't think there are any artists who haven't had a "weird" time where the paintings don't match the vision. By the way...I love the reflection painting and certainly no one would know that it was a challenge for you if you hadn't said so. For myself I take off time if I want and I have learned to not apologize about it (to myself or anyone else). I'm not quite sure why artists are so universally hard on themselves. Claude Monet apparently once said "All my life, I have been a failure". Whaaa???? For real. The only real answer is perhaps to become a "normal" and not be a painter. I doubt you are going to ever do that! What I've done lately when I haven't felt like painting is to simply draw. I like drawing in my sketchbook and it's less "weighty" than painting. Many of the same attributes of painting...but less of a big deal. :)Celeste Berginhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06791708298070342301noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-65057313807061795792015-04-05T06:43:07.315-06:002015-04-05T06:43:07.315-06:00When I see your description right after Sharon'...When I see your description right after Sharon's above, it really emphasizes <br />The same happening - going blind/after the fog lifted. It is a "process".<br />I have really been helped by all the comments, suggestions and sharing. My mind is certainly in a better place about it. <br />Limited palette for sure. Thank you! Switched media. Taking a break. I am certainly trying all the suggestions. I don't think I will be out of the gate running, but I am no longer scared and am eternally grateful for the warm hearted group of artists like you Mary, who cared enough to contact and share. Blessings, and thank you. juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-63021036116181845852015-04-05T06:26:28.050-06:002015-04-05T06:26:28.050-06:00Hi Sharon - another great expression - after the ...Hi Sharon - another great expression - after the fog lifted! <br />I am starting to comprehend that it is part of a process of growth. I am so grateful. I have tried painting with a different focus and expectation and the results were unexpected and far less stressful. <br />Thank you for being so kind. juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-54789387846730874542015-04-02T19:54:24.713-06:002015-04-02T19:54:24.713-06:00I am a late responder here as you've gotten so...I am a late responder here as you've gotten some wonderful feedback and it all sounds so familiar. Your description is what I call it when I go "blind" . I do want to paint, but can't 'see' what I'm doing. Sometimes it helps to visualize as close as possible, what I want the finished painting to look like. Value, color, focus, etc. Another way I work is to use a limited color scheme of just 2 or 3 colors or paint abstracts where I revel only in color. whatever your path, you will come out of it as we all do. Take care!mary maxamhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04721510735181325751noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-65128804564897103452015-04-02T13:32:08.706-06:002015-04-02T13:32:08.706-06:00I've had it several times and after the fog li...I've had it several times and after the fog lifted I always had my biggest break throughs. You've been on my mind and hope everything is going OK. Know that your giving heart and your beautiful work is loved and appreciated.Sharon L. Graveshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04431667073464367767noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-9226326063418279832015-04-02T12:16:30.217-06:002015-04-02T12:16:30.217-06:00Hi Laurie...welcome to the group! By now I am feel...Hi Laurie...welcome to the group! By now I am feeling relief that so many experienced artist journey through these dead moments, and that lets me know there is definitely light at the end of the tunnel. Your beautiful, joyful colors would never indicate you go through these type times. Thanks for sharing.juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-2728264032971722382015-04-01T16:05:59.150-06:002015-04-01T16:05:59.150-06:00Oh Geez, I thought I was the only one! All of thes...Oh Geez, I thought I was the only one! All of these comments have helped me as much as I'm sure they've helped you. Your work is just beautiful, Julie, and any struggles you are having certainly doesn't show to the outside world. But I do appreciate your openness and honesty about your doubts. Wipe, wipe, and more wipe, until I question myself, my productivity, my creativity, etc. But you know that who you are at your core, and that wonderful creativity inside you, will come bursting forth again! And usually when you least expect it! Laurie Muellerhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14116843358653585613noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-92218472099558354192015-04-01T09:12:15.367-06:002015-04-01T09:12:15.367-06:00You are spot on, Helen, when you use the word CHAN...You are spot on, Helen, when you use the word CHANGE. <br />And of course it is what I resist the most when I like the place I am at. This goes for anything in my life. I have moved more than 30 times and no, I am not a military wife! So change also presents, by experience, good things. I know this - I guess the trust is missing, Also change has usually been influenced by the husband's job and "go with the flow" was the best way to be flexible. This is all "me" though and I must be resisting big time without being aware of it.<br />I remember your abstract series - a neat fish in bowl comes to mind and I remember liking it a lot. So maybe I will try doing some abstract. <br />Thanks so much for your input and reassurance, Helen.<br /><br />juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-41590385798542710212015-03-31T23:16:07.476-06:002015-03-31T23:16:07.476-06:00Hello Jeanette,
Well, for sure the "machine&...Hello Jeanette, <br />Well, for sure the "machine" part resonates. I have very disciplined work habits. I have to or I would never get it all done, but I have always been that way so why would now be any different? I do think you are correct in your list of what effects production and quality. <br />I like your positive reasoning about it all comes back. Cant wait!<br />I am having a trip away for Easter and that will be a break.<br />Thanks for the visit and glad things are good for you.<br />juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-230267519471811672015-03-31T23:03:57.848-06:002015-03-31T23:03:57.848-06:00Hi Roseanne - Your observation is dead on. It is m...Hi Roseanne - Your observation is dead on. It is more literal. <br />You should have seen the tighter still wipe-offs.<br />I agree it is good advice to show up at the easel. I have loved that part. <br />Maybe I should paint something totally different but I have wanted to do the reflections for a few month now so I thought doing something I really related to would be good for me.I LOL at speaking to the chore. and so many have said not to wipe just put them away, I am going to do that.<br />Thanks a bunch!<br />juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-71653736370584467362015-03-31T22:57:07.934-06:002015-03-31T22:57:07.934-06:00I like your viewpoint about transforming it into ...I like your viewpoint about transforming it into a growth/learning experience. <br />What I find amazing is how many of these fine artists I follow have had, or are now experiencing something similar. When you say "deep inside" I think that is so accurate. It is in my core I feel it.<br />So I thank you for offering words that matter, Padmaja, and I send wishes over the miles to beautiful India for many happy painting days.juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-35159371299576759132015-03-31T22:49:50.250-06:002015-03-31T22:49:50.250-06:00Hi dear Rita, I, too, experience the same thing af...Hi dear Rita, I, too, experience the same thing after a vacation. I always expect it and have a pattern established which helps me get back into the groove. The advantage of it happening before. Same with a block. I know how to work through one because it has happened before. <br />I understand the diversity of your days and how it can effect your artistic soul. You recognize the growth from these experiences and I appreciate the reminder because I have too. I was frightened Rita because there is something different about this one. Maybe it is because I am older and things are not as easy. I have not considered that angle. Anyway, after reading what you say I am reminded that I have always emerged before intact and I will do again. I have read artists stories when they talk about a profound change in their art and maybe I am gearing up for one. I have to learn not to be scared and just go with the flow. Not easy for independent moi!<br />Sending a warm hug and grateful thanks.juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-24514207017886470032015-03-31T22:04:33.515-06:002015-03-31T22:04:33.515-06:00Hi Polly - it must be the universe...so many of us...Hi Polly - it must be the universe...so many of us spending time in the RUT!<br />I am letting things happen because it is the only thing I can do, but this talking it out with some many has really started to solidify what could be happening to me. I like your expression about Life being a dance...<br />Hope you read thru all the comments and learn like I am doing that you and I are not alone in the Rut.<br />Thanks so much Polly - I am sending a hug for a better day tomorrow.<br /><br />juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-23427861573707783012015-03-31T21:46:53.206-06:002015-03-31T21:46:53.206-06:00Yes - I do have two excellent critique partners. T...Yes - I do have two excellent critique partners. They have totally agreed with my wipers. They understand and agree with my concern. It is like my brain switched off. When teaching I am fine. It is always to demonstrate a point or technique... it is only my own work that is the problem Is that weird or not?<br />I am really glad you followed the advice and improved your work and I know I always enjoy visiting your blog.<br />Stapleton is great, I agree. Hope others see your recommendations.juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-37758411478918609992015-03-31T21:22:52.117-06:002015-03-31T21:22:52.117-06:00Hi Ingrid - you are very encouraging. Maybe it is ...Hi Ingrid - you are very encouraging. Maybe it is as easy as taking a break.<br />I enjoyed your wonderful way with words...stepped off the hamster wheel of repetitive errors!! Cleverly put.<br />You can bottle that enthusiasm and send me some please. Sounds magical.<br />juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-14077070748676604892015-03-31T21:12:02.118-06:002015-03-31T21:12:02.118-06:00Hi Sea - If you had seen the wipers to get to thi...Hi Sea - If you had seen the wipers to get to this one you would have understood better what I mean. It is not a block as I have experienced those before. I cant wait to get to the easel. My experience with a block it was hard just getting to the easel. Now, I have to admit, my life has always had wipers, but not to this degree. What I am realizing as i am going though answering all these deeply felt comments is I am gradually starting to sort out some answers. I value your opinion of the painting and thanks you so much for taking the time to share with me. <br />juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-22338349563188976282015-03-31T20:56:03.896-06:002015-03-31T20:56:03.896-06:00Interesting viewpoint, Susan Rose. If I love the a...Interesting viewpoint, Susan Rose. If I love the act of painting then it makes it easy to agree with you... and that is what I find disturbing. I cannot connect the cause. Prayers are constant and give me peace and then I go back to trying agin and we are off again.<br />I will try and discover if another area is causing the problem and I thank you for the prayers. Most welcome.juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4203287968430038256.post-10561683372071565012015-03-31T20:46:17.820-06:002015-03-31T20:46:17.820-06:00Hi Wendy - the weird part about this is that I am ...Hi Wendy - the weird part about this is that I am happy in work and home. Thats why it doesn't make sense.The hard year is over and life is good. I love to paint but I "feel" like a second grader with what I am turning out.. I know that I am more advanced than that, but what I am saying is I Can't "see" it... can't "feel" it. It is weird for sure. <br />I am getting away for the Easter weekend, maybe your theory will be right.<br />Thanks for helping Wendy. juliefordoliver.blogspot.comhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07186754679744000743noreply@blogger.com