Last week I met someone new and was asked if I was a collector. I had been talking about my recent visit to Key West and visiting many of the galleries there to gather research for my future gallery. I answered, “I’m an artist,” but upon further reflection, I realized I am also a collector.
Even from a young age I have always collected things— rocks, leaves, seed pods, boxes, post cards, dolls from around the world. My kids did too —bottle caps, sea glass, shells, interesting bits of wire, wood, bone, and metal. “Hector the Collector” by Shel Silverstein was one of our favorite poems in our homeschooling days.
In 2019 my husband was invited to be a key note speaker at a conference in Perth, Australia. It was a fabulous trip. I visited museums and galleries while my husband worked. I found an aboriginal gallery that I especially liked. I have two paintings in my studio from this gallery. I love the color and lines in these pieces.
Jan Billycan “Kirriwirri” 2009
60.5 x 60 cm, acrylic on linen
This painting is about sand dunes and living water in the area where the aboriginal artist lived and worked. I love these colors — turquoise blue, greens and ochre browns. The colors reminded me of New Zealand, where I lived for almost 8 years. I also loved the simplicity. In my most recent work I am experimenting with simplicity. I have always leaned toward complexity. I admire artists who do simplicity well.
Betty Mpetyane “Awelye and Bush Melon” 2018
60 x 60 cm, acrylic on linene
This second painting is more complex. It depicts the ceremonial designs painted on the bodies of aboriginal women. I love the vibrant colors. I thought the figures kind of looked like legs. Then I learned that these ovals represented lines painted on the women’s breasts. I find it interesting how the designs are done in sets of three. Maybe it shows the movement of the dancers in the ceremony. I can image the figures joyfully dancing across the canvas.
Costa Rica 2011
14 by 3 inches
woven
In addition to paintings, I also have many carvings and sculptures. Two of my favorite figures I found in a gallery featuring South American artists and artisans in San Jose, Cost Rica in 2011. Unfortunately I do not recall the maker’s name or country. I remember being told they took over a year to make. These figures are so detailed. I love the fringe above the eyes, the woman’s earrings, the man’s spear & basket and all the little fingers & toes. The weaving is so very fine and with many color changes. I think it is just amazing work.
I admire beautiful work in all kinds of mediums. Artwork I love has wonderful color usage, interesting line work and exquisite detail — qualities I am trying to achieve in my own work. My collection of art brings me joy and inspiration. What brings you joy? Where do you find inspiration? What do you collect?