March 7, 2012

     So to those of you who asked, the answer is yes...there are more paintings of the Crystal Bridges construction site.  In fact, I have not posted my own personal favorite.  Are there more paintings of downtown Rogers?  Yes, and that part of my portfolio continues to grow. 
     Looking forward to the workshop with Paul Jackson.  I always enjoy workshops.  
    So here is a funny little story about Mark Mehaffey's workshop last spring.  I'm a bit of a neat freak when I paint.  Gotta have everything in its place.  I wasn't having much luck with the YUPO painting.  Really, it was awful.  I'll quote Mark..."Hmmm it might take a couple of days to resolve this."  That was kind.  So I metaphorically threw my hands up, and literally went and washed them till they squeaked.  Then I cleaned up my workspace, just like I do at home.  We all ate dinner that evening together and Mark mentioned that he had seen me cleaning up my area and getting everything just so.  He said it reminded him of his wife.  So, the next day I was setting up for the day and left the area for a few minutes.  When I came back and began to work, I put my hand out to the spot for my paintbrush...not there.  What the...  My hand automatically went for my supplies...not there.  Everything was moved.  Everything was out of place.  It took me a second to get my head around it.  Was I in the wrong spot?  No.  Why is this over here?  Then it hit me, Mark had done it.  I looked for him across the room, his look of innocence and whistling at the ceiling was no cover.  What a hoot.  What more could you ask of a teacher than to get you out of your comfort zone both physically and mentally.  It still brings a smile to my face.  If you get the chance, be sure and take his workshop.  He is a delight.  My favorite characteristic of Mark as a teacher is that if you ask him if you can try something, his answer is always YES.  Gotta love that.  


"People who make music together cannot be enemies, at least while the music lasts." - Paul Hindemith