Evolution of style.

For 20 years I have been painting the same subjects in the same realistic style: flower, gardens, houses--rinse & repeat.  See:

Lately, I’ve been feeling confined by my compulsion to define every arc and curve.  And I’ve noticed myself tightening up. 

I receive daily letters from the Painter’s Key (http://www.painterskeys.com).  I love these letters.  They come to me at just the right moment.  I look forward to their gentle reminders and insightful advice.  The latest post to strike a chord touched upon the idea of trying something different--reaching out beyond your comfort zone.  Expanding, experimenting, loosening up.  

So I did just that.  Here is one example of my attempt at abstract painting:

My daughter didn’t approve.  Not sure I approve either!  

How about a subject  that I knew little about but that has surrounded me from coast to coast?  Waves! Big and small.  Distant and close.  Wave after wave:  

Although I loved the process and the result of my wave phase, it did get a little monotonous...

Next up, flowers, a subject I know well but with looser arcs and softer lines:

Style is an evolution.  Habits run deep. Even after decades of painting, I'm still trying to find my voice. 

Today questions were swirling through my head: are my paintings relevant? should I change my style? if only I was more like so-and-so…when I get this way (and often I do), I remember something I learned long ago-- go back to what I know.  Paint what I know.  Simple, right?  At least it calms me.  So I redirected myself.  Set out a new palette of fresh Spring colors and set to work.

Thinking green.

Thinking of Spring.  What's on my palette today. 

Back to work.

Back to work after an energizing trip to Seattle.  

Ilene Smith, Artist: A Day at the Shore, Oil on Canvas

Ilene Smith, Artist:
A Day at the Shore, Oil on Canvas: A Day at the Shore, Oil on Canvas

garden room