It’s an exciting day for us! We can view and observe the universe. How closely one looks and really sees depends on the trained artistic eye. I didn’t always see. I developed my skills and learned what to keep and what to eliminate. Seeing doesn’t mean I have to draw or paint with perfection. The actual training of one’s eye will help with discernment of what will be in my Art. I am sure I really started to see when I began my Botanical Illustration Certification program. I was taught to really look at the plants and trees as a Botanist, not what I saw in my head. Way Different! What I see in my head is important for my creative process. Often, I am influenced by my training in Traditional Sumi painting which originated from China and Japan. In this art form there is a spiritual piece that the subject is portrayed with its essence. Let us not forget the energy that is brought forth.
I have a disease in my eyes called Diabetic Macular Edema. I have leakage in my retina area caused by being a Type 1 Diabetic for almost 40 years. Fortunately, I can still see with treatments in each eye. The reason I bring this to your attention is to share who I am and how vision impairment has affected several famous artists. Each one persevered. So, I ask myself; Am I seeing, looking and observing enough? Do I need to spend more time creating and taking action to improve my technical skills? Several artists in this article worked through their vision changes and Georgia O Keeffe continued her art with clay when she lost most of her vision. Amazing!!
Georgia’s passion continued. I was a young girl when I first laid my eyes on this image . It was in my room through college. Now I’m looking forward to visiting her homes in New Mexico. Let’s use Georgia’s inspiration to begin our journey with this Evolving Art Community! Nothing can stop you only you!
My Best, Elaine
© The Art Institute of Chicago
Cow’s Skull with Calico Roses
Georgia O’Keeffe