Just the thought of creating a self-portrait makes me twitch.
Yep, twitch. Though the painting process is an amazing adventure in self-discovery, I don’t always like the places we go. But I recognize the creative and spiritual value of the journey. So every few years, I pack my bags and take the trip.
Most of my self-portraits are in the John Smith Collection. (Our local landfill.) They were great opportunities to check in with myself, but not something I would want adorning my wall.
This time around I am hoping I can be easier on myself.
As I got started, I realized I still have old baggage to sort through.
It took me several hours just to settle on a reference photo. Here’s my thought/feeling process:
This one was too sad. I didn’t want to spend that much time with myself in this state of being. Heck, who would?
Too Sad
I loved this next one. It has a great vibe and I loved the double exposure.
But I ruled it out, as I figured the painting would be more about special effects than about self discovery.
Oh yeah, it would be too easy to hide in this one…
Still, I was and am very tempted to explore it…
- Possible
This one is direct but totally boring.
Boring!
I love the composition of this next one. I won’t paint it though, as I don’t feel
I have anything more to say with paint, that I haven’t already said with the photo.
Already Been Said
Finally I settled on this shot of me taken by Cheryl Calhoun.
It’s a fresh, natural shot, and I’m looking directly at the camera.
Final Choice
It will be interesting to see where it takes me… and if I can manage to keep from flinging it into the landfill…
Stay tuned :O)
Love the one you chose!
:O) Thanks Cheryl!
Shannon Grissom recently posted..Self-Portrait’s Make Me Twitch
I really really like the one you chose.
Hey thanks Cathy! Means a lot coming from you and Cheryl. You both really know me :O)
Shannon Grissom recently posted..Self-Portrait’s Make Me Twitch
Looking forward to seeing where it takes you! Love and nurture yourself along the way.
Awww Jerri, thanks! Sometimes I forget :O)
You picked the right one. It looks natural
Angela recently posted..Understanding China: individuality VS. unity in Chinese culture
Thanks Angela!
Great choice! BTW, have never heard the expression “John Smith collection”….good one!
Enjoy to process and love the result!
:O) Gerry ,it’s the name of our local landfill :O)
Shannon Grissom recently posted..Self-Portrait’s Make Me Twitch
Thanks Brenda!
Shannon Grissom recently posted..Self-Portrait’s Make Me Twitch