Lost bits
It seems like for most of us, becoming a mom means losing bits of yourself here and there. I used to love paint, but I haven't touched a canvas since Grayson was born. Part of that was because my paintings used to be dark and moody, and Grayson brought so much sunshine into my life I couldn't paint that way anymore. Then there's the pressure. I never quite feel like a painting is finished, so I keep touching up and tweaking it and am never truly satisfied with how it looks. Seriously, my palms are sweating right now because I know you are all going to see this one.
Thanks to the encouragement of friends like this one and this one I have decided to find this lost part of who I am this year. This is the first of what I hope will be many paintings to share, and my first attempt at people EVER! I'm feeling a little queasy about sharing it with the world, so I'm going to publish now, before I change my mind!
Oh wow wow wow! I didn't know you could paint! That is so awesome. The painting is lovely, and I hope to see much more of your work to come.
Don't stop!
Posted by:Gloria | January 19, 2008 at 11:48 PM
Wow! That´s beautiful, I´m so proud of you for doing that painting! :D The angles are great.
With all my computer problems and Irving being gone all week, I didn´t get any painting done, though I did get new brushes and cut out my paper. :P Congrats on making your goal!
Posted by:Expat Mom | January 20, 2008 at 09:48 AM
This looks just like the picture! You're like a precious gem! Every time I look at you I see a facet that I haven't seen before. Your true beauty and gifts shine thru more and more every day! Hey, everyone! This beautiful, talented lady is my baby girl!
Posted by:BarbaraCompton | January 20, 2008 at 11:38 AM
That is phenomenal!! You have serious talent. I might request your services in the future....
Posted by:Joy | January 20, 2008 at 01:55 PM
Excellent! I am super impressed and congrats for getting that part of your life back. I love the image of father and son and the writing that you did as well.
Posted by:Chris in Oxford | January 20, 2008 at 03:26 PM
Wow! I thought it was a striking image you'd got off the web or something! What medium have you used? I particularly like Jeff's face...it draws the eye. And Barbara, you have every right to be proud :-)
Posted by:arizaphale | January 20, 2008 at 05:20 PM
I think it's great that you're going to start painting again. You have such a wonderful gift. I'm looking forward to seeing more of your masterpieces.
Posted by:kailani | January 20, 2008 at 06:28 PM
Hey! I had NO IDEA you painted!! that is a wonderful pic... i LOVE it!
Posted by:Julia | January 20, 2008 at 08:28 PM
SEEE????
WOW, you really can paint, my love! I can't believe that is your first attempt at people.
you're awesome!
xoxo
Posted by:Megan | January 21, 2008 at 08:44 AM
*blushing* You guys are all so sweet. I can always count on you for encouragement.
Arizaphale, I used acrylic paint. I like oils better, but long drying time, paint thinner, and two little boys are a disastrous combination!
Joy, when the time comes I'll be honored to paint your little one.
Posted by:Jessica Keith | January 21, 2008 at 09:21 AM
great job Jessica!
Beautiful painting!
Posted by:DeeDee | January 22, 2008 at 09:59 AM
I would say go for it, you have talent!!
Posted by:Digital Flower | January 22, 2008 at 10:17 AM
Oh, those are marvelous, Jessie. I used to draw portraits (pencil, pen & ink, charcoal or charcoal pencil) so I know how difficult they are. I tried gouache (sp.?) paint in college -- because I was FORCED TO -- and I found out it was harder than my media. I salute you.
KEEP GOING!
-- Laurie
Posted by:Foolery | January 22, 2008 at 05:46 PM