This is soo Mel. There is still a fifth grader living inside.

Shot this with my phone while riding over the Williamsburg Bridge.

I really enjoy the added texture of the subway sounds in the background

and the familiar movements of a slow moving train.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MOVIE

“Crackling with life” is a term from a teacher, and something that I’ve been working to understand since I began. “Crackling” describes those rhythmic, baroque movements that bind together all forms, and weave a vibrant, kinetic fabric, mimicking our universe, its oneness and its infinite plan.

First Pass

Second Pass

The action figure is something I found while on a walk with Teagan. And there she is depicted in a little cardboard painting in the background. There, is a little Lego car that I made. It’s an interest that I enjoy sharing with my nephew Sam. The cup is from my sailing days. And the apples I still haven’t eaten. Life is never still. At least I haven’t experienced that yet.

These are lilies dieing in the cold and dim north light of my studio. The dissonant qualities of this painting reflect a part of my nature that I’ve struggle to come to terms with.  What’s dieing is my need to ignore it. What’s alive is a willingness to know it, allow it through. Take a closer look, double click!

Studio Corner

 Excited to try posting video. In this video is Monika, Janine, Mel, Me, and a few other people and places that I love.

This year I turned 40 on Thanksgiving. We were visiting Mel’s family in Chicago.
My birthday lands on the holiday every seven years. Our plan was to stay in a hotel the night before
to spend the evening together celebrating my 40th and our recent engagement.

Mel insists we bring all the stuff we like to do in case we get inspired;
our watercolor kit, books we’re reading, and backgammon.

The Public hotel is beautifully designed; every thing is white, light, taupe, and in its place.
Being creative in a hotel room has a nostalgic romance. I would enjoy an extended stay.

I can’t help but think about Patti Smith, Robert Maplethorpe,
The Chelsea, and Just Kids. We order coffee and talk in bed.

Dressed for dinner, Mel sits on the floor and irons her hair.

It takes a few minutes and I notice how patient 40 feels.

I’ve seen her do these exact steps many many times.

Just about done and she strikes a lovely pose. In a few minutes we’ll be down in the lobby
having drinks while we wait for our table.

Happy together in anticipation.

 A teacher of mine once told us that worship of any kind is good.

First pass on this water color. Not sure where it will go. Thought I better save it as is.

Bursting onto the scene, remaining only for a short time, silently dropping it’s petals to the table.