An Evolving Life. Taking Risks.
Taking Risks
As winter sets in and color drains from the landscape here on the East End, I found myself reaching for my pastels for the life drawing session I attend each week at the Southampton Cultural Center.
Fortuitously upon arrival, I was pleased to find one of my favorite models. An elegant male dancer and person of color, he presents the kind of challenge that inspires me to take risks.
Here’s Ben rendered in an unusual palette of blue, brown, grey, red, and pink. When I showed this piece to my husband upon his arrival home—which I do on most Tuesday evenings after the session—he cocked his head and asked me whether the model was a man or a woman.
At first, I bristled, got defensive and said of course, it’s a man! But the more I studied my own work, I realized that perhaps his first impression had some merit. Indeed the subject could be perceived as androgynous. And the more I thought about the model—his lithe limbs, his subtle curves, his sweet serenity— I became more confident about my portrayal and color choices.
The creative process is most satisfying and exciting when it surprises. Moreover, when instinct supplants deliberation, it’s even better. What seems like a risk at the outset can ultimately make perfect sense!
Please click on the image to enlarge.
Ben
An Evolving Life Series
2019 Posts
Taking Risks (This one)
2018 Posts
Learn more about how it all began! Click here to read An Evolving Life posts from 2018.
