Environment Friend or Foe

A friend of famous artist S. C. Yuan, Walter Georis, describes Yuan’s painting habits, “I remember that he was constantly trying to break some rules.  He felt it necessary, In order to be a little bit mad at painting or bitter.  He needed to be somewhat bitter in order to create the excitement or the stimulus that sometimes the city offers, that Carmel didn’t offer.”

Living in Morgan Hill, although driving distance to San Francisco, definitely is quieter than most, a typical bedroom community. I have become a contemplative living in the solitude of the country, and completely understand what S.C. Yuan was trying to do.

I believe as Oprah would say, that I am having an ah ha moment. I believe living in a small town has also influenced my style. I find a need to create a problem that needs to be solved every time I paint; such as using unusual pallets, have contrasting under-painting, try difficult compositions, use brushes that are large relative to the canvas and attempt subject matter that I am unfamiliar with.

Is this how I create more passion, more creative energy?

How important is where you live for an artist?  Does it affect your art positively or negatively?  Do artists that live in the country normally paint landscapes? Are abstract painters mostly found in the cities?  Where do you live and how has your environment affected your art?

This is my fortieth painting of my #paint52 challenge, medium Atelier Interactive Acrylic on vellum, measures 10″ x 12″ price $300 plus Shipping and Handling.

*All art from Janet Vanderhoof’s Fine Art Gallery, maybe seen in Janet’s studio at Morgan Hill, CA.   You may purchase through contacting my email jvander51@msn.com or phone (408) 460-7237.  Thank you!