In my last post I shared a fawn study and mentioned that I would begin work on a series of Bucks County inspired pieces. The first, a gift for a lovely family that I've been friends with for many years, can be seen in progress above. The last frame is only missing a few details; namely, completing the white pattern and adding a 'flower' to either side of the fawn. It's sort of quilt inspired, but only loosely so. I actually finished the painting yesterday, but didn't have my camera with me.

I've been thinking a lot lately about what inspires and influences me. Not what I like or what I wish I could do (I've always been aware of those things), but what actually drives me, what I'm competent at, and what I have the capacity to learn. There are so many amazing illustrators/designers/artists that I admire, that it can sometimes be overwhelming and pull me into that dreaded state of doubt. From there, it's all downhill. So, instead of dwelling on what I'll never accomplish, I've resolved to work my strengths and to become more articulate about my work in general.

What I've also realized in all this thinking is that I have a strong affinity for folk art and street art that I keep subconsciously returning to. There's just a reoccurring love for the narrations and explorations of everyday life they embody. Of course there are other things that influence me: the sensibility and humor of pop art are irresistible, and clearly mid-century aesthetics inform my work. I've been gleaning bits and pieces from these various facets of art and slowly, I think, my voice is growing stronger.

Sorry for the side track into personal/philosophical dilemmas, but it certainly helps to have it out of me.