NEW LANDSCAPES FROM LOCAL SCENES

Colorful Memorandum Of The Past

An Original framed 18 x 24 acrylic painting on stretched canvas.

I was inspired by a view of an old, deserted shed in Dyke Virginia, on a narrow country road named, Mutton Hollow Creek. It was a crisp clear day in the fall, with the shed serenaded by light bathing the countryside.

It made me yearn for yesterday... and wonder about the family that used to live near that location. A place of serenity and peace.

Textural surfaces (impasto, feel the thickly applied acrylics) and complementary colors reveal the beauty, permanence, and serenity of the planet earth!!!

This work will be on display at Art Upstairs at 112 W. Main Street in Charlottesville, Virginia throughout the month of March. The gallery will host a reception on Friday, March 5th from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

I invite all to comment, click on the comment/pencil icon, and thanks.

ACRYLIC PAINTING IS BENEFICIAL FOR COPING WITH STRESS

ACRYLIC PAINTING IS BENEFICIAL FOR COPING WITH STRESS

We live in a fast paced world that is highly stressful. Millions of dollars are spent annually to relieve the mind and body from tension. Webster's New World College Dictionary Fourth Edition defines stress as; the mental or emotional tension or strain characterized by feelings of anxiety, fear, etc.

Acrylic painting is beneficial

It has often been recommended that one should cultivate outside interests and break routine habits. Acrylic painting provides such an interest as it offers many persons, young or old, an inexpensive way to manage stress. Painting provides a fine opportunity for wholesome relaxation, along with the joy of creativity.

Observation as an Art Teacher

As an Art Teacher for thirty plus years, I have observed art students suffering from; broken hearts, the pain of having separated or divorced parents, or dealing with a debilitating illness. Acrylic painting provides a constructive avenue for students to release such destructive feelings of worthlessness or guilt. It is interesting and alarming to see slashes of acrylic paint, usually dark morbid colors, streak or slash across a canvas from one in a melancholic mood. Eventually,( depending on the degree of stress) it is a joy to see a little more brightness, then more brightness, then finally with bright light colors dominating.

Acrylic painting is relaxing

So view painting as a means of relaxation, as a mean of relieving stress and anxiety. Just remember that your goal is to release the tension that you have accumulated over a period of time. So do not be concerned about creating a pretty picture, as that will come later when you are relieved of such destructive feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Also try painting outdoors, if you can find a quiet serene place. Such an environment will enhance your enjoyment!

Are you ready? Take a deep breath, exhale, and pick up your brush and let the acrylics flow across the canvas.

Did you like this article? Please send me your comments, as it will inspire me to keep writing.