Saturday, April 14, 2012

April Is Definitely For An Altered Approach To Art

March was for Madness. April appears to be taking on its own "A" emotional word too. I'd like it be achievement. There's still time but I'm not there yet. So I guess I will alter my approach and attitude until then and make my "A" be acceptance. Starting with a few recent paintings. 

Last month, I tried my hand and head painting in a minimalistic fashion using recycled work and materials. Clutter will always be in my life in some mental, emotional or physical form. It is a discomforting habit and hard to give up at times so I gave myself an artistic challenge.


Finding a little peace amidst the chaos:

 Marilyn Grad Copyright @2012

I have been incorporating healing stones in some of my paintings and the black one you see on top is called Obsidian. Spiritually, it assists in recognizing where one is holding negativity and helps to illuminate and cleanse those negative patterns from Aura. Emotionally, it leads one to an understanding and acceptance of the darker side of one's nature. Assists in breaking emotionally based habits/disorders/addictions. Physically, it helps removes blockages, even CREATIVE ONES. Quite apropos coming off my March Madness. Some of the same visual issues have still spilled over into April. This stone should be useful as I continue to work on achieving the desired results.

Marilyn Grad Copyright 2012


Above the Buddha's head is a Labradorite stone. Spiritually, it increases vivid dreaming and one's capacity to visualize and perceive with the inner eye. Emotionally, it aids in uncovering subconscious belief patterns, helping one to become aware of how their ego effects their emotions. Physically, labradorite helps reveal the patterns that cause illness and disease and can amplify ones healing thoughts and prayers.

So, through all the mental and emotional frustration and delays experienced in my March madness, art once again showed me its healing powers. Quite simply too. So did a quote from the poet Rumi on embracing setbacks:

If you are irritated by every rub, how will you be polished?
                                                                        Rumi

 Gotta love the creative process.