Breaking the Isolation
 

Since our work is done with a brush and a canvas and not much else we can do it alone. That's the good part. Creating something all by oneself. Sometimes, however, that's also the bad part. (Creating something all by oneself.) How do you break through the isolating aspects of being an artist?

Do you have an artist spouse or partner to talk with about your work?

Do you attend classes several times a year so you can meet other artists?

Do you share studio space?

In my humble opinion, there must be balance and moderation, even (and maybe especially) in the things we love the most. The words of the good Friar Laurence from Romeo and Juliet have been stuck in my mind ever since I first read them.

If it's to remain fresh and meaningful you have to let it be from time to time.

FRIAR LAURENCE

These violent delights have violent ends
And in their triumph die, like fire and powder,
Which as they kiss consume: the sweetest honey
Is loathsome in his own deliciousness
And in the taste confounds the appetite:
Therefore love moderately; long love doth so;
Too swift arrives as tardy as too slow.

A contrary view
 

My candle burns at both ends;
It will not last the night;
But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends
It gives a lovely light!

-Edna St. Vincent Millay


Mike! Kindly stop luring me off-topic!

For me, teaching is the perfect compliment to the monastic existence of painting portraits.

Painting requires me to internalize my energy and focus inward while teaching forces me to expand outward. Ironically, the feedback I get from my students energizes me and makes me want to give more, while the wonderful reception I get from my clients inspires me as well. In essence they are the same.

This is the perfect balance for me and for this I am very grateful.