Re-Testing the Studio

In the winter months, the basement studio is actually pretty cozy--not too hot, not too cool, and brightly lit, at least compared to the quality of winter light at this latitude. But in the summer, with the a/c running almost constantly, the basement is almost cold, and the light seems weak by comparision with the summer light. The a/c unit runs at a different frequency than the furnace, and it is not as soothing a white noise. Nonetheless it is my space to sprawl out in as I please, and the coolness is a boon when hot flashes strike, which seems to be every hour on the hour these days.

Am about to tackle a new set of paintings, sans people and cats and other creatures, and allowing objects and rooms to be still lifes and interiors for their own sake. Valparaiso is a very different place than Miller Beach, and I've been here long enough to internalize a sense of being here rather than a sense of still being in transition. In that sense, I am also re-testing my sense of place, which has been the driving force of most of my creative efforts.

Steve is in the process of arranging a few group shows at Isabella Bean coffee shop in downtown Valparaiso. It will be interesting to see how they evolve. If I am satisfied with this next batch of work, I might be able to hang a few there myself.