”I don’t think one decides to become a singer, It is decided for you by the reactions of the people around you.” – Andrea Bocelli
I have no illusions whatsoever about whether my artistic talent is anywhere near the level of a world famous Italian tenor. It isn’t. But I do understand what Bocelli is saying. When I started painting, just over a decade ago, I did not set out to become an artist. Over time, the reactions of others led me to start seeing myself that way.
These experiences helped me find the courage to share my work in the public arena:
- * Friends and supporters began to show more than a mild ‘That’s nice, Pat” interest in what I was doing. (They were genuinely excited about my work, and purchased pieces for themselves and others!)
- * Other artists began asking for hints and pointers on my technique. (I didn’t think what I was doing was anything special!)
- * People who learned about my art began asking me where they could view and buy my work. (It never occurred to them that I wasn’t connected to a gallery somewhere!)
- * And finally, as the paintings piled up in my studio, I simply had to find a way to make space and buy supplies for what came next.
Over time, it seems I have grown into the role of artist – whether I intended to or not.
Along the way, I have learned that I truly love to paint – most especially in the outdoors and in the moment. With pen or brush in hand, with paints and paper in front of me, I am just plain happy!
Splash and squiggle is how I work. Ink and watercolor is where I live. My best work springs to life when I approach it with a lighthearted, playful spirit.
In art, as in life, I aim to be an Appreciative Adventurer – searching out joy and beauty wherever I am and wherever I go. I am drawn to express the up side, the sunny side, the inspiring message that life is good.
My greatest wish is that others – and that includes you – feel encouraged and heartened for having been in the presence of my work.
When I asked a recent collector of my art why he decided to purchase a certain painting, he told me the piece was ‘full of life and that it made him happy’.
It’s that kind of feedback that keeps me keeping on!
Sketches of Saskatoon is the latest expression of my love of art. You can see and enjoy more of my work in the Pauseworks Studio Online Galleries.