“I Am A Tree”
Vintage and personal images, vintage papers, paint, Adirondack Color Wash Sprays, white and black gel pens, Sharpie poster paint pens.
03 March, 2012
I have always been connected to the earth. To dirt, plants, animals. Growing up on a farm in Montana we had a huge garden, cows, pigs, cats and dogs. My earliest memories are of my Mom plopping me in the middle of our huge vegetable garden in the earth. I remember the feel of the cool earth in my hands and bare feet, the rich smell of the dirt. It is deep in my genes. I have a cherished photo of my maternal great grandparents who were farmers outside their farm.
As a teen I resented the constant cycle of planting, tending, harvesting fruits and vegetables. I remember when I was a teenager telling my Mom “I will NEVER have a garden when I grow up.” Yet the first thing I do when I move into a house is plant a garden of some sort. I have to. I have to feel the earth in my hands. To nest, to have animals. It is the same with art. I have to use my hands. I have to feel the paper, the paint against my skin.
This spread is from one of Orly Avineri’s wonderful classes. As always click on the image to see a full size image.
I am currently in Portland, Oregon soaking up the yummy food and urban vibe.
Cheers!
Another amazing spread Brian! I had to chuckle when you said you would never have a garden…and new you had to have one. I am most certain it is a thing of beauty as well.
This is a very inspiring and beautiful work of art.
Love the way you made your little self so rooted on the ground. This is very powerful!
Moving art and words. Vulnerability moving into strength.
Beautiful and SO True! Love the way you write about your connection to the earth…through gardening, dirt and animals. I never thought about it, but art and the process of creating can be just as connective and powerful… Have you seen “Dirt! The Movie” I think you would enjoy it.