Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Hope

Hope
8x10
Oil on Linen

Here is the first painting I've done for 2010. Sorry about the glare. Maybe it's because it's still wet. I've found that after a hiatus from painting, there is a renewed enthusiasm. It's no longer a struggle. Painting for me now is pure joy.

I think no matter who we are, there is happiness in focused attention. Getting lost in deep concentration. Some people call this state "being in the zone". I call it bliss.


12 comments:

Anonymous said...

beautiful, gentle dream like Janelle. a great start to 2010. i like the expression 'being in the zone' though it does sound rather out of this world and prefer the expression 'being present and living in the moment' to me it suggests not thiniing about past or present but focusing only on the present moment (from Ekhart Tolle).

Anonymous said...

Janelle, this is just beautiful. What a way to start a new year of painting! Please tell me it's finished and not awaiting any more glazes as it looks fantastic.
Maggie L

Melinda said...

You are so right, Janelle! Bliss is painting, letting the world fall away and eating up color and light.

Wise words. Wondrous painting. Go forth and enjoy!!

Jill Berry said...

Gorgeous~
and Glowing~

This Tonalism style
you have now mastered
is very intriguing!

Marion said...

It's gorgeous, Janelle. I love your soft, dreamy landscapes. I've been inspired this new year, too. I'm doing more art journaling and playing with watercolor pencils. I love them! May this be your most creative year ever. Happy New Year and Blessings!!

Catherine Jeffrey said...

Beautiful sky and reflections. What a great start to your 2010 paintings. I hope I find such calm focus when I finally get back to painting after a busy holiday that took every second of my time. I'm a little worried that it will be difficult to get back into it. "Going back in" is a little like entering another dimension...but an absolutely wonderful all encompassing one. All the best for 2010!

jsicignano2.blogspot.com said...

Beautiful Janelle. You started 2010 with an exceptional painting.

Kathleen Krucoff said...

Hi Janelle!

You are so on target, not only with this gorgeous painting, but with your assessment of "bliss". I'm right there with you.

Wishing you all the best in this new year & decade!

Diane Hoeptner said...

Pretty glowing sky on this one, Janelle.

Janelle Goodwin said...

Hi Rahina, Yes, being in the present and living in the moment is a great way of putting that feeling - pure bliss!

Hi Maggie, Yes, I'm completely done with this one. I just need to add a signature and varnish. Thanks!

Hi Melinda, Being involved with color and light is probably why we painters love it so. I think your canyon meditation says it all.

Hi Jill, I'm not sure if I've mastered the technique, but feel more comfortable with it anyway (ha!) Thanks!

Hi Marion, Looking forward to seeing your art journals to accompany your wonderful poetry!

Hi Catherine, It's scary going back in because I'm always afraid I forgot how to paint. Looking forward to seeing more of your work!

Hi Joan, Thanks so much!

Hi Kathleen, Maybe "bliss" should be my word for 2010. Thanks!

Hi Diane, I'm enjoying your William Morris-like paintings. Thanks!

Jala Pfaff said...

Good to start the year with hope.

I am always amazed by how time passes when one is painting fully in the moment. Hours go by and I don't even notice. When I start to feel like I'm lagging, and my conscious, verbal mind kicks in, then I know it's time for the painting session to end.

Janelle Goodwin said...

Hi Jala, That's an interesting thought. I never realized it but it's true. When the verbal, conscious mind comes back, it's time to pack it up. Thanks, Jala!