Lisa... a work in progress

I often forget to record a work in progress but did actually do so with this. I was responding to the Willowing challenge - paint a portrait using only shades of black, white, flesh, titanium buff and a smidge of pink.

I began by brayering the colours onto the paper to see what emerged - just like Lisa as a kid - trying a bit of this with a blank canvas waiting to be filled.

Then I sketched out the face in charcoal before fixing it, and added some strategically-placed as well as totally random paint. A further metaphor in my own creation I believe - the way we often shape our destiny by making decisions that impact us for life.

Funny how I didn't notice until I thought I was finished that one eye was way bigger than the other - just like me, a bit wonky!

I am feeling full of reflection this morning. I dreamt again about going back to University - usually the same theme, that of not being prepared for final exams. I did OK at Uni, not brilliant, just average (I did have rather a good time though!!). What this dream really means I think is that I certainly didn't get the most from the academic experience. I should have studied Art in some shape or form. It wasn't until my late 30s that I finally discovered my passion, the element that was missing. I may never be a great artist, but creativity is in my blood.

It's interesting that it found its way out wherever it could - even when working for a financial institution or an IT conglomerate my creativity was what made my name. Words and Pictures. Words from Pictures. Pictures from Words.

I am still a work in progress, a life drawing - but hopefully with a lot more direction than 20 years ago.

Posting for Sunday Sketches and Willowing.