Author: Cheryl

“So there are two fantasy or freedoms that you can imagine: one based on play and one based on games. Play is like pure creativity; in fact it sort of generates rules. It’s like the ultimate power. But pure creativity is scary on a certain level. On the other hand, pure rule bound game is a stifle and boring. So there’s a kind of constant tension between those two principles that seems to play in every aspect of human existence.” David Graeber Read more here: “The life-sapping reality of beaurocratic life.” Who knew that there was a creativity connection with this activist-academic? I like his thoughts. 

An opportunity came up spur of the moment to hang some of my paintings at Masonville Library. There are 16 paintings of mine there – lots of recent work, some of them quite large. The paintings are on display just until May 28. There is no official opening, but I hope you can drop in to see them in the Sifton Room, Masonville Library, 30 North Centre Road, London. 

For those of you who like lists, this is a really good one. Check out – The Painter’s Primer: A Survival Kit by Irwin Greenberg 

 

Do I ever go through a lot of brushes. I try to be kind to them – really I do. But even when taken care of they will eventually start having bad hair days and, well, it’s no use fighting with them. I don’t throw away all the old ones. Some can be good for putting down quick large shapes or anything that doesn’t need a lot of precision. However, painting should be fun in order to be creative and a dishevelled brush will be no fun if you are wanting accurate shapes or edges. Here’s my video about brush care, if you need a refresher. May as well have them last as long as possible. Brush Care Video by Cheryl O 

This one is for all my portrait course students. Thanks to cartoonist Tom Cheney.