The challenges of keeping a creative mind.

The life of an artist is a waltz between inspiration and challenge, a delicate balance to maintain a creative mind amidst the ebbs and flows of the artistic journey. While the allure of creation is captivating, artists often grapple with an array of challenges that threaten to obscure the clarity of their creative vision.

One of the foremost challenges artists encounter is the relentless pursuit of inspiration. Creativity, though boundless in potential, is elusive in its nature. It doesn't adhere to schedules or deadlines. It arrives unannounced, sometimes in torrents, and at other times as a mere trickle. The artist navigates through the unpredictable terrain of inspiration, facing moments of drought and abundance, learning to coax the muse out of the shadows.

Moreover, the weight of expectations can bear heavily on an artist's shoulders. Whether self-imposed or external, the pressure to consistently produce remarkable work can stifle creativity. The fear of failure or falling short of perceived standards becomes a formidable obstacle, casting shadows over the free-flowing exploration that fuels artistic expression.

In the digital age, distractions multiply, inundating artists with a cacophony of stimuli that vie for attention. Social media, emails, and the incessant buzz of notifications disrupt the serene sanctum of creativity, fragmenting focus and diluting the intensity required for deep artistic immersion.

Furthermore, the artist faces the challenge of self-doubt—a relentless companion that whispers insecurities and undermines confidence. The vulnerability of putting one's soul into art makes the artist susceptible to the tumultuous waves of doubt, questioning the validity and worth of their creations.

The practical aspects of the artist's life also pose significant hurdles. Financial instability, the necessity of balancing multiple jobs or projects, and navigating the complexities of the art market can drain creative energy. The burden of administrative tasks, marketing, and networking can encroach upon the precious time and mental space needed for artistic exploration.

Additionally, the artist often treads the fine line between solitude and connection. While solitude fosters introspection and deep dives into creativity, isolation can become a breeding ground for stagnation. Conversely, too much external influence and collaboration can dilute the artist's unique voice.

However, amidst these challenges lies the resilience of the artistic spirit. Artists persevere, finding ways to navigate the labyrinth of obstacles. They embrace vulnerability, transforming it into a source of strength. They seek balance, learning to tune out distractions and cultivate environments conducive to creativity. They harness the struggles, turning them into catalysts for growth and innovation.

Ultimately, maintaining a creative mind as an artist is a dynamic dance—a constant negotiation between chaos and serenity, doubt and conviction, solitude and connection. It's a testament to the unwavering dedication and unwavering passion that drives artists to pursue their craft despite the hurdles, knowing that within the challenges lies the essence of artistic evolution and fulfillment.

Be an artist or a brand?

In an era where artistic expression collides with commercialization, the notion of artists becoming brands is a subject that ignites a spectrum of debates within creative circles. The traditional narrative of an artist as a solitary creator, driven solely by passion and vision, clashes with the contemporary reality where personal branding has become a pivotal component of success.

The question arises: Is it essential for an artist to morph into a brand? Does this shift in focus from pure creativity to marketable identity dilute the authenticity and integrity of their art?

At its core, the idea of artists as brands reflects a changing landscape in the creative industry. In an increasingly saturated market, establishing a distinct persona can facilitate visibility and recognition. A recognizable brand enables artists to stand out amid the cacophony of voices vying for attention, potentially opening doors to collaborations, exhibitions, and commercial opportunities.

However, this emphasis on branding often prompts concerns about the commodification of art. When artists tailor their work to fit market demands or mold their identity to fit a certain image, the risk of compromising artistic integrity looms large. The pressure to conform to a brand image may stifle experimentation, limit creative freedom, and confine artists to a predetermined box that aligns with market trends.

Moreover, the relentless focus on branding can overshadow the essence of art itself—the exploration of emotions, societal reflections, and individual expressions. It can divert attention away from the raw, unfiltered essence of creation, reducing art to a mere product designed for mass consumption.

Furthermore, the concept of an artist as a brand blurs the line between creator and marketer. While navigating the intricacies of self-promotion and marketability, artists may find themselves pulled away from their craft, spending more time cultivating their brand image than honing their skills and delving into their creative depths.

Yet, in a world driven by digital connectivity and social media, the artist's brand can become a vehicle for meaningful dialogue and connection. Personal branding, when wielded authentically, can bridge the gap between artists and audiences, fostering genuine relationships and deeper engagement.

Ultimately, the conversation about artists becoming brands is multifaceted and complex. While branding can offer visibility and opportunities, it also poses risks to artistic authenticity and creative autonomy. The challenge lies in striking a delicate balance—nurturing a brand identity while preserving the core essence of artistic expression.

Perhaps the ideal lies in embracing a nuanced approach—a recognition that while branding can amplify an artist's reach, the heart of their craft remains rooted in authenticity, vulnerability, and unbridled creativity. It's a dance between visibility and integrity, where the artist's brand becomes a reflection, not a distortion, of their artistic journey and vision.

Dada Movement influence in today’s artistic world.

The Dada movement, born out of rebellion and avant-garde expression in the early 20th century, continues to exert its unconventional influence on the artistic landscape even in the year 2023. Rooted in chaos, irony, and a vehement rejection of societal norms, Dadaism emerges as a paradoxical force, simultaneously anchored in history yet eternally relevant in its defiance.

As we navigate the complexities of a world marked by rapid technological advancements, socio-political upheavals, and a relentless pursuit of progress, the essence of Dadaism resonates profoundly. Its spirit of dissent, its celebration of the absurd, and its challenge to established structures find a curious echo in the contemporary socio-cultural milieu.

In 2023, the Dada movement thrives in its ability to provoke introspection and disrupt complacency. Its ethos aligns with a society grappling with information overload, grappling with dissonance between reality and perception, and yearning for authentic connections in a digitized world.

Artists today harness Dadaist principles to deconstruct established narratives, challenge the status quo, and question the very fabric of societal constructs. The movement's penchant for juxtaposition, fragmentation, and nonsensical juxtapositions finds a renewed home in digital art, performance art, and multimedia installations.

In a world where algorithms curate our experiences and filter our realities, Dadaism’s emphasis on randomness, spontaneity, and the unfiltered human experience becomes a counterbalance—a rallying cry for authenticity in an age of manufactured narratives.

Moreover, the Dadaist legacy thrives in the realm of social commentary and activism. Artists utilize the movement’s penchant for subversion to critique power structures, challenge prejudices, and amplify marginalized voices. The spirit of protest and rebellion that animated Dadaist works a century ago finds resonance in contemporary artivism, where artists harness their craft to incite social change and awareness.

Yet, while the Dada movement maintains its relevance and influence in 2023, it also faces challenges. The proliferation of digital media and the commodification of rebellion pose questions about the authenticity of dissent in a hyper-commercialized world. The risk of dilution and co-option looms large as Dadaist aesthetics become trendy rather than revolutionary.

In conclusion, the Dada movement continues to pulsate with vitality and relevance in 2023. Its legacy persists as a beacon for artists challenging conformity, embracing chaos, and redefining the boundaries of artistic expression. In an era marked by uncertainty and flux, Dadaism stands as a testament to the enduring power of creative defiance—a rallying cry for artists to disrupt, provoke, and challenge the very fabric of our existence.

Artists’ future in the new world of Metaverse and Web3.

The evolving landscape of technology continually reshapes the canvas for artistic expression, and the emergence of the metaverse and Web3 presents a boundless realm of opportunities for creators. Artists, once bound by physical limitations, now find themselves at the cusp of an expansive digital universe where imagination knows no bounds.

The metaverse, a collective virtual space comprising interconnected digital environments, is poised to revolutionize how we interact, create, and experience art. Within this immersive realm, artists are not constrained by the constraints of physical space or material limitations. Instead, they navigate a world where their creations transcend traditional boundaries, reaching audiences in unprecedented ways.

Web3, built on decentralized technologies like blockchain, introduces new paradigms of ownership, authenticity, and monetization. For artists, this translates into a transformative shift—a democratization of creative ownership and a redefinition of the relationship between creators and consumers.

In this dynamic landscape, artists wield a palette of possibilities. They craft immersive experiences, designing virtual galleries where art comes alive, transcending the constraints of physical walls. The metaverse becomes their canvas—a multidimensional space where sculptures, paintings, music, and performances intertwine to create sensorial experiences that transcend the limitations of the physical world.

Web3 technology, particularly through the use of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), offers artists a new frontier of ownership and authenticity. NFTs, unique digital assets verified on the blockchain, enable creators to establish provable ownership of their work and unlock new revenue streams through the sale of digital art. This revolutionary concept grants artists the ability to receive royalties from secondary sales, ensuring a continuous stream of income as their art appreciates in value.

Moreover, the metaverse and Web3 foster collaboration and community-building on an unprecedented scale. Artists can collaborate across borders, disciplines, and mediums, blurring the lines between art forms and cultivating a rich tapestry of creativity. Communities form around shared interests, enabling artists to connect directly with their audiences, receive instant feedback, and cultivate loyal followings.

However, amidst this transformative landscape, challenges persist. The accessibility and inclusivity of the metaverse remain crucial concerns, as not all artists may have equal access to emerging technologies. Moreover, navigating the complexities of blockchain, NFTs, and decentralized platforms requires a learning curve that some artists may find daunting.

Nonetheless, the metaverse and Web3 herald a new era of possibilities for artists—one where creativity flourishes in a decentralized, interconnected digital realm. It’s a frontier brimming with potential, inviting artists to reimagine the very essence of artistry, ownership, and community. As creators adapt and explore this uncharted territory, the fusion of art and technology paves the way for an era of boundless artistic innovation and expression.

The artist’s love for the creative process

In the heart of every artist lies an enchanting affair—the irresistible romance with the creative process. It begins as a whisper, a faint call that beckons from the depths of their soul. At first, it’s a timid dance, an exploration of possibilities, a tentative brushstroke on an empty canvas or the first chord struck on a silent guitar string.

As they delve deeper, the artist finds themselves caught in a whirlwind of emotions, a kaleidoscope of inspiration and passion. They lose themselves in the labyrinth of ideas, each turn revealing new dimensions of their craft. The creative process becomes a journey—a meandering path where every step carries the weight of anticipation and discovery.

In this journey, time becomes an illusion. Hours blend into moments, days into fragments of contemplation. The world outside fades away, and the artist is immersed in a realm entirely their own. It’s a sanctuary where rules cease to exist, and boundaries are mere suggestions. Here, they are free—free to experiment, to fail, to soar.

The artist’s love affair with creation transcends the finished masterpiece. It’s not just about the final strokes of the brush or the closing notes of a melody; it’s about the evolution, the evolution of thought, emotion, and expression. It’s the ecstasy of seeing an idea take shape, of witnessing raw potential transform into tangible beauty.

Yet, this affair is not without its challenges. Doubt lurks in the shadows, a constant companion whispering insecurities and uncertainties. The artist battles the inner critic, wrestling with self-doubt and fear of inadequacy. But within this struggle lies the crucible where true artistry is forged—the courage to persist, to embrace imperfections, and to grow from every setback.

Through the highs and lows, the artist remains devoted to the creative process. It becomes their solace, their sanctuary—a place to pour out their joys, sorrows, dreams, and fears. The canvas, the page, the stage—they all become a mirror reflecting the artist's soul, a testament to their unwavering commitment to the journey of creation.

In the end, it’s not just about the art created; it’s about the love affair—an eternal bond forged between the artist and the act of creation. It’s a love that transcends the confines of time and space, a love that fuels the artist's spirit and gives life to their imagination. The artist falls in love not just with the act of creating but with the very essence of creativity itself—an enduring passion that kindles their soul and drives them to explore the infinite depths of their artistic potential.

The importance of creative arts in our lives.

The importance of creative arts in our lives

Creative arts play a pivotal role in enriching our lives in countless ways. Beyond mere entertainment, they serve as a vital thread woven into the fabric of human existence, fostering personal growth, expression, and cultural enrichment.

At their core, creative arts encompass a diverse spectrum of disciplines, including visual arts, music, literature, theater, dance, and more. These forms of expression serve as outlets for emotions, thoughts, and ideas that may be challenging to articulate through conventional means. Through painting, sculpting, composing, or storytelling, individuals can delve into the depths of their imagination, exploring concepts and feelings that defy verbal explanation.

One of the fundamental aspects of creative arts lies in their ability to transcend boundaries and connect people from different walks of life. They serve as a universal language, capable of bridging gaps between cultures, generations, and backgrounds. Whether through a moving piece of music, a thought-provoking novel, or a captivating dance performance, creative arts have the power to evoke emotions and spark conversations that resonate universally.

Moreover, engaging with creative arts nurtures critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It encourages individuals to think outside the box, fostering innovation and ingenuity. Artists often challenge norms and conventions, pushing the boundaries of what is deemed possible or acceptable. This mindset transcends the realm of art and permeates various aspects of life, encouraging individuals to approach challenges with creativity and resourcefulness.

The presence of creative arts in education is equally crucial. Exposure to artistic endeavors from an early age not only cultivates a deeper appreciation for culture and beauty but also nurtures cognitive development. Studies have shown that integrating arts education into curriculums enhances students' academic performance, creativity, and emotional intelligence.

Furthermore, creative arts serve as a mirror reflecting societal issues and fostering empathy. Artists often tackle pressing social, political, and environmental issues through their work, prompting audiences to contemplate and engage with these topics on a deeper level. Whether it's a painting depicting social injustice, a play exploring human relationships, or a song advocating for change, creative arts have the potential to ignite conversations and drive societal progress.

In essence, the presence of creative arts in our lives is not just desirable but essential. They enrich our experiences, ignite our imaginations, and provide avenues for self-expression and connection. Embracing and supporting creative endeavors ensures that the tapestry of human existence remains vibrant, diverse, and endlessly inspiring.

The impact of cryptocurrencies on the art world

The past decade we heard a lot about cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology and how they shall change the way we do things in our society. We’ve seen the rise of digital art and NFTs. We now are also experiencing AI generated art. However cryptocurrencies remain a big thing and will definitely have an impact on the world of art and they made some inroads already.

Cryptocurrencies have had a significant impact on the art world in several ways:

1. Facilitating Transactions: Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin have created a new avenue for art collectors to purchase artwork. Transactions can be made directly from buyer to seller without the need for intermediaries such as banks or art dealers. This can potentially reduce transaction fees and make it easier for collectors to buy and sell artwork.

2. Tokenization of Art: Some art platforms are using blockchain technology to tokenize artwork, essentially creating a digital certificate of ownership. This allows art to be bought and sold in fractional shares, making it more accessible to a wider audience of collectors. It also allows for greater transparency and accountability in the art market.

3. Supporting Emerging Artists: Cryptocurrencies have provided a new avenue for emerging artists to receive funding and support. Platforms like ArtByte and Maecenas allow artists to receive cryptocurrency donations and support from art collectors around the world.

4. Enabling New Forms of Art: Cryptocurrencies have inspired a new genre of art known as crypto art, which involves the creation of digital art that is authenticated using blockchain technology. This art can be bought and sold using cryptocurrencies and is often accompanied by a digital certificate of ownership.

5. Challenging Traditional Art Market Practices: Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology have the potential to disrupt traditional art market practices by creating a more transparent and decentralized market. This could potentially reduce the influence of art dealers and auction houses, and make the art market more accessible and democratic.

Overall, cryptocurrencies have had a significant impact on the art world, creating new opportunities for collectors and artists, and challenging traditional market practices. However, it is important to note that the use of cryptocurrencies in the art market is still relatively new and its long-term impact remains to be seen. I strongly believe that blockchain technology will eventually disrupt the the finance industry in a positive way and the art industry will be one of those industries that will ride the wave and give artists better protection for the art and be paid fairly for their work.

The challenges painting in watercolors.

I must admit that the watercolor medium is not my favorite. However, due to certain circumstance, I ended up painting mostly with this medium as I find it fast and can paint on small size paper hence will not have any space issues.

Painting watercolor portraits can present a number of challenges for artists, including:

1. Control of the medium: Watercolor is a fluid and unpredictable medium, making it difficult to control compared to other painting mediums. This can make it difficult to achieve certain effects or details in a portrait.

2. Color management: Watercolor can be difficult to manage when mixing colors, as it can be challenging to achieve the right tone and balance of colors in a portrait.

3. Planning ahead: Unlike oil or acrylic paints, it can be difficult to make changes to a watercolor painting once it has been applied. This means artists need to carefully plan their painting and work in layers to build up the image.

4. Timing and drying: Watercolor paints dry quickly and can be difficult to blend once they have dried. Artists must work quickly and plan for the drying time of each layer.

5. Paper selection: The type and quality of paper used can greatly affect the final outcome of a watercolor painting. Artists need to select the right paper to achieve the desired effect.

6. Preservation: Watercolor paintings are fragile and can be easily damaged if not properly preserved. Artists need to take extra care to ensure the longevity of their watercolor portraits.

Overall, painting watercolor portraits requires a high level of skill and patience. It can be a challenging medium, but it can also produce beautiful and unique results. It takes time and a lot of hours of practice to master this medium. I love experimenting with color mixing especially when doing figurative pieces. Portraits are still my favorite.

My Art During Lockdown

It was a Saturday when I was at the barber having a hair cut when I received a message notifying me that Malta has its first COVID19 infected person. Like many others, I did not know how this pandemic will evolve and change our way of life. I kept on moving with my own normal life. The night before I did a sketch of a bull on my iPad and I liked the color wash I did use the watercolor brush effect. So on Saturday, after I finished my grooming, I went to the art supplies shop and bought my first watercolor set together with some brushes and cotton paper. This way I would test such effect the traditional way.

That week I started experimenting with this new medium. I was never a big fan of watercolor however I was going to give it a try. I was missing brushes since the place I’m currently living in has no space to put up my easel I normally use for oil and acrylic paintings. Therefore watercolors provided me a similar type of notion I normally enjoy while using oils. Initially, it was challenging to get the different shades and the feel of the brush is super soft.  I was determined to improve the skill so I watched numerous tutorials on YouTube and then practiced what I’ve learnt. I committed to myself that I will do a watercolor painting every day or else at least a sketch a day. While going through this process, the Covid19 situation got really serious and like most the rest of the island, I was locked in my apartment and suddenly shops were closed. I felt lucky that I bought my watercolor material before all this started.

My full-time job is a remote job therefore it did not affect my daily routine. As soon as I finish my daily job duties late afternoon, I immediately start sketching for watercolors. I experimented with color mixing and the drying process and analyzed the way the painting looked. So I had my daily routine in place. Work, paint, eat, and sleep. Unfortunately, I could not go out for walks like most people could do since I had a medical condition that required surgery and the surgery got postponed due to the C19 situation. Therefore I was locked in.

All news broadcasting was full of the negative and tragic news of how this pandemic was devastating wherever it reaches. I stayed away from such news by focusing on art. Art was my therapy. I isolated my mind from the rest of the world and locked it into my creative world. Deep down I did not feel that same passion I had when I used to do oil paintings. So I had some days where I shifted back to my digital drawings on my iPad.

I love figurative art and while I was researching for some inspiration online, I found a couple of pictures that I knew would help me improve painting shadows using watercolor. So I started painting figures practicing shadows using only one color, black. I tried several shades of greys and different brush strokes. Gradually I was finding my ground in watercolors. I finally found something that excited me and enjoyed painting it again. One of the advantages of watercolors is speed. Since I had my self set target of doing a painting a day, it was perfect. I started on my small sketchbook painting small figures. I moved to the bigger cotton paper once I felt confident that I can create good pieces.

I really enjoyed my lockdown. I never felt alone as I was with my painting and my colors. Every day I had a new objective, that of a new painting. I received good feedback when I was posting my paintings on social media. I even had people from France and the United States who sent me emails after they’ve seen my painting on Twitter and on my website. All this was very encouraging and gave me the confidence to do more.

Art was my companion during our partial lockdown. I never felt sad or frustrated. I actually felt motivated and helped me go through the new reality without any doubts. I did miss meeting my son and family and friends. Although we had our video calls, it is different than meeting face to face. It’s a different feel. I missed having a beer with my mates. But I forgot all this as soon as I got hold of my brushes and dived into my world.

I am always looking forward to my next painting and how engaging it is going to be. I love the process of planning the composition and posture of the subject figure. I find the human figure fascinating. I like observing people especially their facial features and expressions. When outside sitting on a bench, I observe the people around me, their movement, their style of clothes, and their gestures. When one really observes deeply another human being, one comes to the conclusion that everyone is beautiful. Every human being has amazing features that make him or her stand out from the rest and that is what makes us all unique. That is exactly what I try to capture and transmit in my paintings. 

This pandemic created a new reality for all of us. It actually provided us with a good reality check. We had ample time to sit down and look into the mirror and ask questions that we never had time to do so. It is important that one retrieves the positives from this experience and learn to live away from greed and appreciate more the basic needs. Art for me was a great companion during the period. If someone asks me how was my Covid19 lockdown, my reply will simply be “It was great”.

No Colours on Sunday

This is so weird. Many times I tried to paint or draw on Sundays. Mostly to stay away from crowds and chaos one finds in towns and cities. However, the majority of the time, I either block or else I will simply draw crappy stuff.

I get entangled between anger, frustration, and empty spaces. I will be lost. It will be as if I am in the middle of a desert or outer space where one is surrounded completely with nothing. I stand there alone staring. I hear this psychedelic instrumental music in mind. I close my eyes and simply drift onto the unknown. Different colours will be all over without any formal shapes or forms. They are simply splashed around me. That is the place where I detached from reality. 

A Manipulated World

Away from that part of the world that is dominated by greed and manipulative media. That world where it is OK to break the law, It is OK to suffocate minorities, it is OK to destroy forests, it is ok to kill animal species, it is OK for racial hatred.

Thankfully my art is my refuge. It keeps me away from this chaos. It is my gateway to freedom. It temporarily removes the chains that the System imposed on me as a grew along. Art provides me the purpose to unchain.

Purpose

I thought that this COVID-19 pandemic experience will wake up a new wave of hope for a more just world, for a greener planet, for cleaner oceans, less greed. However, the first signs do not look good. Seems like humanity wants to go back to what it knows best. Art should serve the purpose to awaken and support movements against this crazy way of life. Any form of art should embark and spark a new revolt. Creative artists must do their part. We cannot shy away anymore from what surrounds us. 

I need to stop trying to paint or draw on Sundays. It must be my rest day. Will I manage? I do not know. I am not the type who gives up easily. I normally fight my demons. Will see how it evolves. For now, I am going to put on my headphones and listen to some inspiring music and drift away to another world where everything is still pure and uncontaminated.

Jose’ Micallef

Sunday 7th June 2020

Art for Sanity

The past 3 months were like I was living in one of Salvador Dali’s paintings. Empty roads, empty schools, empty malls, empty airports. It was surreal. It took me a while to comprehend what was going on. Who would have imagined that the whole planet would come at a standstill?

Like many, I observed the health authorities’ recommendation and complied with a self lock-down in my apartment on my own. I knew that this was going to be a challenge. At first, I thought that this was going to be only a two-week task but then it was very clear that it will take much longer than that. 

Fantastic Journey

There was no single day or moment during this lockdown that I felt lonely or sad or annoyed. I created the best company I could have had. I imposed on my self the daily routine to sketch or paint anything. I discovered new media like watercolor and ink. As days went by, I’ve seen progress in my new technique and was getting good reviews on social media. I was always looking forward to my next painting, my next inspiration. I mainly painted people, from young to old. The human figure was always my favorite subject irrespective of the medium I’ll use.

There were moments where I was thinking of what I would have done should I did not paint. Would I have gone nuts? Would I be bored? Knowing me, I would have kept myself busy anyways however, the fact that I kept myself busy with my passion was a very healthy move to my sanity. I was positive all the way. COVID-19 was a blessing in disguise. It was great. I loved every day that passed by. I created so much that I had to create a new section on my website for my watercolor and ink paintings.

I was safe

My creativity kept me away from the fear that was constantly being showered on us by the media in general. I was aware of what was going on in my country and around the world but I did not let the news affect me. My art was my buffer. My art was my refuge. My art was a safe place. My art kept me sane.

Jose’ Micallef

June 2020

Artists that I admire - Modigliani

Here is a first of a serious of articles I’ll be writing about artists that I admire. About artists who somehow touched me and influenced me. 

Where we met

I bumped into Amadeo Modigliani’s painting by chance. I recall a couple of decades ago, I was reading a book about Pablo Picasso and there I’ve seen his name for the first time. Since he was a new name for me, I searched him out. The first painting I’ve seen that really impressed was the portrait of Lucia Czechovska. The elongated face resting on a long neck. Very simple but subtle. Not too many colors but enough to capture the lines. Then I kept on going through his rich portfolio. I got hooked. I managed to see some of his work in Milano a few years back. It was a very emotional moment for me. Yes, I admit I cried. Only two other artists have such an effect on me - Vincent van Gogh and Lucien Freud.

His paintings were all of the singular persons. No crowds or couples. He created his own style at the time where a revolution was taking place in the art world. While Picasso was breaking every rule of the then traditional art, Modi, as he was commonly known, brought his Italian influence and merged it with primitive African art. One can also find African influence in Picasso’s works but Modi gave it his imprint and created works that soothed better the eyes and less aggressive than Picasso.

In his short presence on this planet, Modi managed to leave his mark in the art world. He followed his passion and move to Paris as he knew that Paris was the center of creativity and also the center of entertainment. He mingled with other artists of the time and gradually created his individual style. He was not shy of controversy. He wanted to be himself and he painted what he saw within him at the moment. I love his blues like that in The Little Peasant and also the terracotta backgrounds like that in the piece called The Artist’s Wife. Then there was Jeanne, the love of his life who supported him an inspired him in many ways.

His Legacy

His bohemian life was not a healthy one with alcohol and drugs. I am not sure if such substances induced hallucinations that led to his masterpieces. But he was a master of his own world. A master of his passion. Tuberculosis took away his life early. Who knows how many more works would he have painted should he lived a longer life like Picasso or Matisse? His life did not end with his death. It only ended when Jeanne joined him a few days later after his death when she took away her life as she could not bear her life without him. 

He lived a tragic life but he is definitely still alive in his works.

When all colours go black

There are moments where I am scared of the paint brush. Moments where I do not know what to do with the colours, how to mix them. My mind simply goes boom. Nothing is connected inside my brain. I lose all sense of making art. I stare at an empty white canvas without any reaction. I feel soul less.

Many times I forced myself to sketch and paint during this black period but I create only garbage. I feel like I am a toddler get hold of the pencil for the first time in his life. The feeling is devastating. There were times where I thought that I lost it. That I cannot paint or draw anymore. I despair. What will happen of me should I stop painting? Who will I be?

I do go through these moments. Sometimes it’s only days but other times they take weeks even months. I cannot say they are happy days. I simply exist. It is very frustrating but now I know that the colours will eventually come back. So I’ve learnt not to fight it. I simply let it be until that moment where I am friends again with my paint brushes. I see the reds, the blues, the greens, the yellows, the greys. I don’t care what medium I use. As long as I create, I’m fine. I’m in the right place. I’m in my world of colours.

The urge to paint

Every single day, irrespective of the mood or weather or location, I need to paint. The first thing that crosses my mind as on as I was up is, what I will be painting or sketching on that same day.  Lately I started painting using watercolours which is a new medium for me. Although they do not give me the full body experience as when I use oils, they are quite versatile and easy to use once you get the hang of the brushes and the right measure of water in the brush. I start and finish on the same day. So far, no watercolour painting took me more than 3 hours. Drying is not a problem as I use a hit drier to speed up the process. I am still far away from the quality I want reach but am getting there gradually.

The urge to paint gives me a reason to move on every day. It is my sole objective. The rest is only normal routine of lower importance. Recently I was not feeling well as my blood pressure had a dive so I could not do my daily painting ritual. I went to bed feeling unaccomplished as if I wasted a whole precious day. 

During the day, although most likely I’ll be doing other errands, I will still be unconsciously drawing in my mind. This always helps me when I get to my brushes. I would have seen the painting I my mind before I even start. I even imagine myself mixing the colours. The feeling of going through this process is amazing. Its great and super exciting.

I do have my dark periods where I simply cannot paint or draw. Believe me it is a terrible feeling. I feel useless. No reason to live for. Sometimes it takes day but I also had months where I could not paint. As if I never painted ever before. The paint brush in my hand becomes a stranger. The charcoal becomes an alien. Lately I’ve learnt that meditation helps me to shorten such dark periods an dit is getting better and better.

I paint every day, if not on my canvas, or paper or tablet, I will be painting in my mind. I transport myself to my world of colour cause that is my place. It is the place where my home is. It is the place that defines me.

Jose’

27th March 2020