How a Painting is Born — The Curious and Contagious Nature of Inspiration
--
Cadenza - Chroma and Timbre — Inspired by a composer, inspired by a painting, inspired by a musician practicing on a beautiful September afternoon.
I have a full-time day job, but that is not what I define as my work. I am an artist. Painting is not a hobby or something I do in my spare time; it is my chosen work. It does not yet pay the bills, but it gives me joy and purpose.
I would like to guide you through the evolution of my newest work, Cadenza – Chroma and Timbre.
This particular work arose from a mutual inspiration. The subject, Margin Alexander (a New York-based composer), had discovered an image of mine on Instagram and contacted me to ask if he could highlight it during a performance of his. I immediately gave permission, as I appreciate new creative opportunities, and admired his novel approach to creating a performance piece during the pandemic, when live performances were not possible. The painting that had inspired him was Autumn Sessions.
I, in turn, saw an opportunity to collaborate further (and virtually). I asked Margin if I might paint a portrait of him playing piano and use his music as a soundtrack for the making-of videos. He resoundingly agreed.
I reviewed all of Margin’s videos until I found a composition that inspired me. I took several screen captures to work from, and began the painting in January 2021. Each time I worked on it, I recorded it and then created time-lapse videos. There are 11 videos in all; from the blank canvas to the final work.
Each time I worked on the painting, I listened to Margin’s piano compositions. You will find many on Apple Music and Spotify; I encourage you to check them out.
I began with a blank gallery canvas, in this case 24 x 36 inches. I did not do preliminary…
