Drawing Life 14
Our drawing class started up again on Saturday with some new members. We spent some time doing abstract drawings so we could get the feel of everybody’s hand and explore the pure possibility of line and shade. Then we moved onto imaginary landscapes and tried to bring those lines, smudges, shadings into them. I think the new people were relieved; their drawings didn’t have to look like anything. But it can be hard to just play too. It looks like we’re not going anywhere but inspired play is so necessary to art and creativity.
Once again we listened to The Essential Leonard Cohen. The art got bolder.
That same night, by chance, Dear A and I watched Leonard Cohen, I’m Your Man. It’s half documentary, half concert. The director interviews Cohen and various artists perform his songs to varying degrees of success. But the words really open you up. The best performance was the last, when Cohen performed with U2, Bono and the rest ever so respectful.The devotion of all the artists in the film was just great.
Cohen says he considers himself to be a minor writer. I wouldn’t say that but the devotion to just doing the work day after day is major inspiration. I’m going to assign the film for homework.
January 29th, 2007 at 2:22 pm
That film just blew my sense of words wide open. I’ve always adored Cohen’s music, but wasn’t aware he had so many books, or was a visual artist to boot. The other performance that cracked me wide besides the one with U2, was Antony. Holy mackerel, Andy. Lila watched with us, and the 3 of us sat and listened with our mouths hanging wide open, wishing it would go on and on and on. Stunning.
Love the painting/drawing. Perfect.
February 1st, 2007 at 10:44 am
Hi Cath, I’ll be looking for the Leonard Cohen film over here. I was in a taxi yesterday(London) and the driver had him on the raido. My dear late mama always refered to him as a singer of dirges, but I think he’s a genius. He actually disappeared in a zen monastery for 10 years…then got up one day and walked out! I love your drawing…wish I could join your group. They take themselves so seriously down my way. Contentious debate at Tate St Ives and Goldfish Gallery, Penzance. Go to artcornwall.org, then click on forum.
February 1st, 2007 at 2:01 pm
Hey, Kath — Well, wish you could be in our group too! That would be fun. Checked out the Cornish debate….hmmmm…can’t imagine why anything authentic can’t be included in regional shows. Good you’ve gotten out to London for a breath of fresh air!