an evolution

Do you ever have a painting that you just can't seem to resolve?  I have had this one canvas in my studio for close to a year now.  It spends a lot of time facing the wall like a naughty child.  

Every once in a while I turn it around and try to engage in a conversation.  It would be nice if I could say its like meeting up with an old friend for coffee...although I think the encounter probably feels more like bumping into an old love in the produce section (I haven't actually done that, but I imagine there would be a very awkward silence).  

There is always a little section of it that I like and cling to,  so I dive in and try to get things sorted out.  

This piece started out much darker, but it got depressing and murky for me so I put it away. 

in the beginning, a long time ago

Then I got the idea of air and flight and whitewashed it and added the birds. 

then there was light, a few months ago

Then the birds were too much/too obvious and I switched to thoughts of navigating, and now its beginning to feel like coming home.  

                                                

yesterday

I know, I might have wrecked it. I often do "wreck" a painting before I "finish" it.

The poor canvas has been altered so many times, I think it is like a NY transit car in the Bronx, with layer upon layer of graffiti. I am really hoping this week will see the resolution, I will keep you posted...