Long before I read my first book, wrote my first lines of poetry or first chapter for a novel, I was enamored with art.

There are several reasons, I suppose, that I never really gave it a try, though next week I’ll be taking some lessons (more for my own pleasure than any professional aspirations, mostly to enrich my writing).

The Visual Language of Art moves me, speaks to me in deep-down places some words never reach.

Even on a bad day, a few moments with the right work of art (the combination of colors, the juxtaposition of curves and lines) can evoke emotion that soothes or inspires.

And that’s what I’m hoping to do here. To inspire. To remind you that you are part of a brilliant community, one full of color and imagination and creativity. To remind you that inside you there is art. I hope you enjoy the site. I hope you stay connected to the art in you.

Five Thoughts On Art:

I. “If you do not breathe through writing, if you do not cry out in writing, or sing in writing, then don’t write, because our culture has no use for it.” – Anais Nin

Art is more than words or colors or sounds. Art is an expression of one’s deep-down-self. That’s why it resonates so strongly with others.

II. “The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude.” – Friedrich Nietzsche

As an artist, even when I illuminate a dark spot it’s to reveal the wonder within. I’m grateful for people’s resolve, pluck, resilience, hope.

III. “Some painters transform the sun into a yellow spot, others transform a yellow spot into the sun.” – Picasso

What do YOU think makes the difference?

IV. “Fine art is that in which the hand, the head, and the heart of man go together.” – John Ruskin

It’s about more than balance. It’s about listening to yourself and honoring what you hear.

V. “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” – Thomas Merton

And what a wonderful thing that is.