Please do not disturb...

This laminated sign hangs in my studio. It was written and signed by my most beloved drawing and painting professor while an art student at Skidmore College. Jeff Elgin was (most likely still is) a wise, kind and brilliant teacher. I still find myself quoting him as his statements were priceless. I would share them here but without the benefit of the accent and emphasis of his voice, much gets lost in translation. One thing that I will share is his insistence that as young full time students in an art department of a private school (read: an assumed privileged background) we would never again have that kind of time, freedom and support from our fellow art students and faculty. We may never again have access to such beautiful and spacious studio space. As with everything else Jeff said, he was right. I remember thinking he had to be mistaken. Didn't full-time painters spend all their time in lovely, sunlight filled studios in Soho? 

As I start on a new piece - think this one will be titled, "Epiphany II" - I am feeling a bit nostalgic for that studio time and space I was so privileged to share with some of the most brilliant creative minds I have ever known. I miss the experience of chatting with other art students about our triumphs, frustrations and where to get something to eat at two in the morning. The music that I remember most as the back-drop to this time was The Talking Heads. I can't help but be transported back to those studios when I hear David Byrne singing Burning Down the House . 

I have a few hours in the studio today before having to take the cat for her rabies shot and run some necessary errands. Jeff was right, there will never be enough time so I will take the time I am given and keep pushing...and remain grateful for what is.