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Let me update you on our painting progress:

It has been quite a journey. Two different people, two different styles. We thought “winging it” would be the easiest way but I think it has been the most challenging part. Maybe we should have had a theme from the start, or maybe the theme will assert itself as the painting progresses. Maybe that’s what is stressing me out a bit. Throughout my studies in art there has always and I mean ALWAYS been a theme, a purpose, a reason for doing something. Everything had to be justified. But was this justification for the painter or for the viewer? At times you want to paint just… because you want to. This painting seems like it was made because we both just wanted to paint…. itching to get something down on a canvas and in turn we have created this frantic, frenzy-ness of shapes, lines, textures, colours and things. It could make sense, but it also does not.

My uncle came by as I was cropping the photos and he asked me what this was all about. He insisted that there was a theme and waited to hear an explanation. I couldn’t really answer and he seemed disappointed in me that there was no real theme, rhyme or reason for our painting. I told him we just wanted to paint, and try out techniques and get back into painting. It wasn’t good enough for him. But why? If it’s a good enough reason for me (and my painting partner) why can’t it be seen as acceptable for him/them? Why is it, if there’s no real reason behind a piece it can’t be applauded or at least be affirmed that it was a carnal need to create?

This was actually a discussion N and I had while we were painting the other day and I was playing devil’s advocate or stuck up artsy, saying something won’t sell with no theme. (Age old art discussion eg. Dada art) But, now when the tables are turned and I was confronted by my Uncle…I was irked by his reaction. Some family members could never understand why my parents let me “wat gung jie” in phonetic chinese… or translated directly “draw dolls” or how I interpret their meaning, “draw pictures like a school kid” as an education. But I love my parents because they let me follow my path. I know they weren’t too happy about some decisions I made, but they were always proud of my artistic capabilities. The look on their faces when I created something made me feel the love they had for me as a person and creator. I take pride in the fact that they understand that there is more to life than becoming a doctor or lawyer. They try as best as they can to encourage me to paint, draw and find myself as an artist and person. My failings occur because I hold myself back and don’t believe in myself. I’m working on that.

That was kind of off topic but basically what it boils down to is, our painting may not have a said theme but there is a purpose. We wanted to put something on a large canvas, create lines, make images, add texture and colours. Theme or no theme: We Created. It took us a while to figure out and meld our two styles into something cohesive and from the last session (which I have yet to receive the picture) we have FINALLY found a way to make it work.
Whatever the outcome, when we finish, it will be a achievement for N and I.

But you’ll have to stay tuned for that!

Happy New Year Kaplui-ites!
Let the painting begin!
Session 2 was quite productive. We started a bit late in the night (due to my tardiness and N’s work schedule) but it went pretty well. This is somewhat of an underpainting but you get the gist of what it’s going to be like. At first we were a little apprehensive of whether our styles were going to mesh well together but I don’t think we have to worry about that too much. Seems like we’re feeding off of each other quite well.
We chose an underpainting of ochre and green with some yellow and we’ll slowly build on adding other colours. I have a tendency to work with straight colour so I’m thinking I’m going to try blending more colour. I love bright colours but I think this piece and N give the feeling of thin layers. We’ll see what the future holds for this unsuspecting canvas.

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December 8 2009 Start

What should have taken probably about an hour took longer. Neslon: “It’ll only take 1/2 an hour.” This is coming from the guy who’s first handmade canvas was his last about 10 years ago. It didn’t help that the crossbar was off about 2 cm’s. So, basically I’m posting this for the purposes of seeing how long it will sit blank. Start Date: December 8. Note that guys….