Observing It All Come Together

One of the best decisions I have made was to leave the world of media production and become a functional artist. I don't say that lightly. Or live it lightly. I live it mentally full time and physically part-time.

I recently started a new job at the soon to be open Terzo Piano restaurant located on the third floor of The Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago. The Modern Wing is the new home to the Art Institute's 20th and 21th Century art collection. It opens to the public May 16th. The building is energy efficient, constructed from recycled and environmentally safe materials and water is recycled. 264,000 square feet of space for me to get lost. Very, very exciting.

"Naturally 'Mazing " Box
13"x4"x4"
Wood, Acrylic, texture paint, polyurethane varnish

I have observed the exterior progress of the construction since 2005. Now that I am actually inside the building, learning security procedures, navigating and dodging all the internal construction still going on, I am progressively seeing it ALL come together. The less than glamorous side to the soon to be chaotic and rewarding side.

Especially at Terzo Piano. With 4 days under my belt, I have seen a white canvas, literally as the restaurant is very white, very open, begin to transform itself into a contemporary masterpiece. I have seen the Director and President of the Art Institute, the restaurant designer, the building architect, building maintenance, electricians, engineers, art installers, the Executive Chef and his staff, restaurant staff, and media, all come together dedicated to creating and making something fantastic. With a deadline.

"Fame" Buddha Box
Wood, Acrylic, texture paint, Chinese coin, non-toxic polyurethane varnish

As I observe all of this coming together, I also see how by changing my direction, living my values, and persevering, I have created exactly what I wanted. And I will be surrounded by people and an environment that will nurture my decision. So I guess I can say I'm sitting, or standing as the true case will be (I'm a host),
pretty happy.

P.S. Thank You Paul!!!

Left Brain Stimulus Package

When it comes to the art of creating, and my approach to life, the right side of my brain gets ALOT of air time. I wouldn't be pursuing and doing what I am doing if I wasn't predominately right brained. I love right brain activities and thrive on them. However, when the left side of my brain screams for air time, I sometimes say, "Later, go away kid, ya bother me." Not this time. The left side now wanted equal time and demanded stimulation. I needed to make a decision and it required that I do an honest self-assessment of a situation. I have a deadline.

I bring this up because, yesterday, I made the agonizing decision not to renew my contract this year to do the
One of a Kind Show & Sale Chicago. As much as I love everything about this show, I really can't afford to do it now. Pride, desire, and ego have to take a back seat. I will still create, paint, and market my art, especially online, and try other venues.

I did not arrive at this decision entirely on my own. I reached out to left- brained dominate friends, and one in particular whose opinion I always cherish, heed and respect. I am now comfortable with my decision. I knew deep down it was the "left" right thing to do. I will apply the would be show money to get my new work shot , redo my website, and MARKET, MARKET MARKET.

There are two sides in a decision-making process. It feels good to have a balanced mind.