8.22.2011

Maybe you don't know me?





Yesterday I darted down into the basement to find a smaller metal straight edge than I had in my studio and stumbled across an old sketch book from almost 20 years ago. I was in my mid-twenties and decided to sketch from magazine photos just to keep my drawing skills in tune. I'm sure shortly after that, the idea fell by the wayside and I didn't draw or sketch for years.

It wasn't until after I had kids, that I was inspired to paint - and paint abstractly. Because, well, I just have abstract ideas rolling around in my head.

I shared my sketches with the girls. They were astounded and amazed. The expressions on their faces were of a response initiated by pure magic being performed before their eyes. "But it looks so real!"

What were they thinking? They acted as if it wasn't humanly possible. I'm sure they have seen more realistic/naturalistic work than this before? Are they living in a technological age that assumes nothing is done by hand anymore? Or do they just not know what I am capable of?

It reminds me of a recent incident I had with Maya. This past spring she couldn't get Darrin or Ellie to throw around the softball. "I'll play catch with you Maya." I eagerly blurted. She had a huge grin plus a little smirk on her face and said "Really?" I could see by the look in her eye that she did not believe I could either throw or catch a softball. We went out in the yard and had great fun.

I wonder what other skills or knowledge or wisdom I could reveal that would leave them flabbergasted? Somehow I feel I can gain a little more respect even if only one ounce at time.

1 comment:

Laura said...

This is such great revelation. I feel like I have been going through the same experience with my girls with this whole experience out here. I feel like they are seeing different sides to me and they are amazed. I am hoping that they see they are capable of anything. Missing you tons.