The following quotation was an offering from our watercolor workshop instructor a few days ago. Martha Grahm was an amazing choreographer who worked into her eighties. To me this edict to the artist was an antidote to the swinging pendulum of very good to not so good art, writing, music etc. She made it seem mandatory to represent yourself and no one else, regardless of fashion or style, pleasure or displeasure. I wanted to share this with my talented and inimitable family and friends, hoping it encourages you in the way it did me.
The photos include some of my writing group as well as those present at the watercolor workshop.
I have included a few of my efforts as well as one dear girl whom has been our most unexpected teacher and guide. She drew this for R to thank him for taking her fishing.
“There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work.
. You have to keep yourself open and aware to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open. … No artist is pleased. [There is] no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is only a queer divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others”
― Martha Graham
love the Rooster!
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Thanks Howie!n I finally got happy with one! sitting in the wind in San Filipe on a nice beach. jeez why didn’t you warn us about cocos corner? oh yeah, you did!
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Your painting is fabulous. Absolutely love the rooster!!
: ) Linder
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Thanks my dear friend! First painting in twenty that I thought was okay since I grew my paper. I think the workshop helped. Miss you!
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Wise words, Julie, and I love the visuals, especially your watercolors. So glad you’re living YOUR life! (Still not receiving your posts!)
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