TO LOVE.

A lot has occurred in my life since I posted my last series, Lonely Girl: A Tribute To Edward Hopper [link] (by the way, thanks for all of your support, comments and favorites, I was a bit surprised at the overwhelming response considering that they were all remakes) So what did occur? Well, for one, I am in a new studio and I absolutely love it! The move was hell, but in the end it all paid off. So this will mark the first series (or sessions) to be completed in my new place. Not sure if that makes a difference on the quality of ones work, but if you see any difference, do let me know. LOL.

Also, on a very sad note, as some of you may already know, I lost a really good friend during that time. I recently did a portrait in honor of his memory entitled “This Charming Man” [link] to express my feelings about it. It’s really the only way I seem to know how to. I think of him often and think I always will. I know when someone passes away, you always hear people saying, “he was one of the sweetest and kindest person you’ll ever meet,” well, he truly was that, and I am not just saying it. If you would have gotten the opportunity, or privilege to have met “This Charming Man,” you would understand why I consider myself one of the lucky ones to have known him in life.

On a much shyer note, I met someone really special since I posted my last series. Someone that gave me those warm fuzzies you get when you really start to like someone, you know what I mean? Unfortunately, there were some obstacles that we were both afraid to take on or challenge that ended our brief relationship. Nevertheless, I am one to believe that no matter how long something last, if the relationship made some kind of an impact in your life, it’s still something worth cherishing.

Okay, sorry folks--I didn't mean to get all mushy and stuff, but I thought I’d share a little bit of my personal side because it MIGHT, POSSIBLY, PERHAPS be somehow related to the mood of this new series. MAYBE.

Speaking of my series, if you’ve been following most of them up to this point, you might already know that I tend to draw from some kind of artistic influence with each one I post. This time around I looked to the artistic bravery of French painter Gustave Courbet (June 10, 1819 – December 10, 1877). Best known as an innovator in Realism, but to me he was truly an artist who was way ahead of his time. Please look him up kids (and you adults, too!) But for my under age audience, please get some permission from your parents or guardians before venturing off in search of Courbet’s work, some of it can be a little on the risque side of art. And as an extra added treat, if you just so happen to live in or perhaps maybe visiting the New York area real soon (this means you, Geo! , some of his amazing works are currently on exhibit until May 18 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Besides drawing heavily on Courbet, I recently visited Florida for the first time (sad, huh?) And stopped by the Salvador Dalí Museum. Good stuff, however Dalí is always kind of an inspiration for me. But seeing his work live again, ignited my creative spirits once more!

And, oh yeah...besides those two masters, I am always taking some inspiration from all of you one way or another, so keep on inspiring me!

Okay, I’ve said way too much, please go and (hopefully) enjoy my new series, Myleti [link] and as always, let me know what you think.

Peace,

O