Progress is relative

I have been out of the blog O'shephere (I like it this way - it's more Gaelic) for quite some time as I wrestled with computer viruses (I was an art major for crying out loud not a computer person!), my own bodily viruses and the general confusion of trying to juggle my too many roles here on the stage of life.

I was granted my wish for beautiful snow days. I love these days - dream about them all summer. On a recent  snow day, while my kids happily kept themselves busy, I got busy myself on a new piece.

I did this sketch while I was in bed with pneumonia back in October and was finally given the freedom, time and creative mood to start.

I am working here on canvas - where I normally prefer to work on wood. It's a large piece (4' square) so the weight works better with a canvas. Also, for some reason this flower pod seems to want to be done on canvas (strange, unexplained artist whim). 

These are only the first layers and can't wait to build up the surface with surprises and depth. 

I am also in the process of writing my essay to apply to a graduate program at Lesley University to get my Masters in Art Therapy. I think it is the right time for me to get some guidance, professional knowledge and a general kick in the right direction. It is becoming abundantly clear to me that all my life's experiences and past degrees in both Studio Art and Ed. Psych. and most importantly, parenting and living in the world for forty-six years have led me to this place and I am ready.

I am basing my essay on this painting. The general concept is that experiences in our lives start as a seed that leads us outward, like concentric circles, to our next experience and towards greater wisdom. Finally, there comes a time in all our development that all these seeds and circles produce a beautiful collection of knowledge and skill that can best be shared with the world in it's most perfect form, strengthened by a sense of self that only comes from age.