I have everything up to date and finished in the studio. What a relief.
I like the serenity of this piece. The more I look at it the more I like it. The temptation to clutter it with boats was big. But it doesn't need it. The calm water and drifting gulls finding moments in time and space. Memories lifting out of the water, leaving no trace.
I can now start on the 'Pilgrimage'. For weeks now I have been carrying a small book around with me, jotting down ideas, words, scribbles, scraps of magazine cut outs etc.
I know where the pilgrimage is going, I just need to gather everything together and start making a work. I sat for a long while looking at the blank white canvas, make a start, make a start.....in the end I got some very dilute paint and threw it on, letting it dribble down the the white gesso.
I also really like the idea of making a wooden 'book'. Something with hinges that opens like a triptych. Like opening a book on my life, a short walk from here to there. I need to start the walking. Today, with a beautiful start, the sun breaking through the rising mist, was the perfect day to walk at Alresford Creek.
Such a beautiful spot. There are not many houses I really covet, but this one I do. The perfect setting as far as I'm concerned. Well ok there is a gravel pit close by, but it's still lovely. Right on the edge of the creek. wading birds and clanking halliards are all that disturb the peace. Who needs a garden when you can walk out of the door straight on to this?
The sunlight on the mud is lovely, making it look metallic. reminding me again of gold leaf on a triptych.
Where do I go?, why do I go? Do words explain the picture.
A view like this really needs no words to explain. It communicates a truth beyond speech or silence. Triggering something deep.
A disused boat shed. Rusty hinges, rotting wood, tangled corrugated iron, steel left in the salt water to rust.
(note to self)
Footprints in the mud.
Channels in the mud resembling an Andy Goldsworthy.
It's all in the subtleties, that's where the discoveries are.
