Folk Art Diary: The Wisdom of Sheep

'The Wisdom of Sheep' acrylic on canvas
copyright robin r kent

Nature becomes partial to browns (my favorite color) this time of year. It is stick season, after all. Slim pickin's for a colorist.
This sheep portrait was painted midwinter a few years ago. I usually render them 'au naturel' but during this time frame I thought they could use a dye job. A little zip in the color wheel would cheer up most.

Why do sheep seem so all-knowing? Is it because they have been deemed the 'chosen ones' by artists and others alike from time immemorial? Were they given wisdom by sacrificial ancestors in exchange for their fate? They always look dignified even when dressed in pink.

Developing An Artist's 'Eye'

'Hang In There' Acrylic on Boards

©robinrkent

Why do happy times seem so fleeting, difficult times last so long, and creative times have no sense of time at all?

My time away from painting has given me the perspective of a 'viewing audience member,' and not one as a working artist. I always thought I could 'step back' and view works objectively, but never have from this time distance. Who knew a different sort of art appreciation would be gained by not painting!?

Fur Collar Days



'Fur Collar' Acrylic on rough wood

©robin r kent



Yet another post in the
'Artist as Nurse' Series:

While things are getting better, I have a ways to go before operating on a normal schedule. But it helps me to know the rest of my world is still the same. I'm reassured of  this when I look at the cats.
Their faces tell me they know something's different, but they're still okay. Is there wisdom in their wildness? Funny how critters can console you where no words can reach.
Warm fur can be a comfort to the soul. Too bad they can't offer some professional art direction advice as well.