Recently, a friend and I went to the David Hockney exhibition ‘Current’ in Melbourne. Known as the UK’s greatest living artist, Hockney, who turns 80 this year, is a master at embracing the new while still acknowledging the past. His digital art is inspirational, but so are his acrylic portraits. One informs the other, it seems.
Anyway, my friend and I were talking about how we felt overwhelmed by the current political situation at home and abroad, poor treatment of asylum seekers and refugees in many countries, erosion of women’s rights and the disintegration of fair work practices.
Although we believe in fighting against these things, it is also worth noting that you can’t fight all the time. It is still important to take time out to create: paint, write, cook, or whatever your idea of creativity is.
To this end, here is my latest attempt at creativity: a painting done with Copic markers and fine-line pens, inspired by a photo of an old building I saw when I visited relatives in Oamaru, New Zealand. Oamaru is a peaceful South Island coastal town of grand historical buildings and a centre of ‘steampunk’ culture. Unlike the perfectly renovated buildings in the nearby tourist precinct, this one was yet to be ‘done’. I kind-of like it this way, though.
The Crayon Files 
Creativity in all its forms is so important at times like this, Caron. I couldn’t agree more, and I’m glad you took that time. I’ll bet it was an amazing experience.
Hi Margot. Yes, I decided to do something creative every day over our summer, when although I am still very busy with work, I am not as busy as I am from February on.
I was brought up in Oamaru before the waterfront/harbour area was reinvented and you have so perfectly captured the look and feel of those buildings as they once were…
Thank you! I’d like to go back for another visit one day. I’d heard so much about it over the decades. Although I was born in Dunedin and spent my first few years in Christchurch, I’ve barely spent any time in the South Island.
Lovely Caron. I love old, historic buildings. I always think of the stories they could tell.
Yes, me too. This one has faint lettering on it, and I wonder what it used to be. My first cousin-once-removed who still lives there could probably tell me: I must ask her!
Yes, you should. Look forward to another blog post about it 🙂
Good idea!
I think that is really beautiful.
Thank you for stopping by, Victoria.
I love that you’re channeling the muck into something beautiful:). Every time I read social media posts, I am disheartened by the number of people here who support what seems insanity. It’s nice to focus on art & beauty for a bit . . .
It is indeed. There’s also a movement on Facebook to post information about and works by artists, instead of political statements, selfies and memes.
I saw that! I think it will be interesting to see all types of art that come out of this. And her history-paintings, music, and pros.