Life as art, creation as lifestyle

Part 1

Representational art and my transition to personalized realism

To me personally, creating art means observing and creating it without help of any devices, and where possible, using the real things as references. It also means drawing and painting the subject in a recognizable way, but not necessary sticking to life-likeness so tightly that I cannot implement my own adjustments which are not present in reality. Representational art is pretty much neglected and not recognized in Canada. The modernism and contemporary traditions run here deep, and, certainly, artists who engage in abstract and contemporary abstract art, are way better off.

Watercolor painting, landscape with flood water
Flooding spring water, watercolor, 42 x 18 in or 61 x 46 cm.

So, how come I prefer realism in art?

First of all, my background is very different from Canada-born artist’s background. I moved over here when I was close to 50. By that age, the local Canadian artists have established their niche, gotten decent visibility and have participated in numerous juried and other shows. Well, I had with me 2 brushes and a travel set of watercolor paints, and that’s it. No portfolio, no previous paintings because you just don’t have space in one suitcase. I hadn’t even ever had a camera before I arrived here, therefore, I had no images also. So, I started from scratch. I’ve been very successful and productive comparatively, but I certainly couldn’t catch up in a few years with what others had done during quite many decades.

Watercolor painting, barn and spring
Country barn in spring landscape, size of this painting is 22 x 16 in or 56 x 41 cm

Talent and practice

I had some features which lots of artists do not have when they start out, even if it is at quite old age. I was drawing since early childhood, all on my own. Unlike in North America where somebody would immediately get a private tutor for talented kid or send this kid to a specialized school, nobody gave anything about my well-done drawings. I didn’t have any artists around, moreover, I had never seen any real art. We didn’t have TV those times, nobody had even dreamt about internet back then. It was a countryside out of a small picturesque Latvian town where we lived, but there were no museums, no exhibitions. I had the feeling that I can draw, and my goal was to create drawings so that the things on them looked real.

Country barn painting
Country barn, spring, pen and watercolor, 16 x 12 in or 41 x 30.5 cm

Self-criticism

I was very critical and paid attention to every flaw in my drawings since there was nobody else to provide with critique, explanation or suggestion. I practiced for numerous hours until my drawings looked good to me. The paper I had wasn’t a drawing paper, nothing like it. It could be wrapping paper, white pages in front of a book, some paper for notes and later notebooks for school. I was certainly not selective when it came to art supplies, I simply didn’t have them, but pencils were around. I didn’t have eraser, therefore, I learned to draw without necessity to use an eraser.

Watercolor painting, old house, spring
Old countryside house in pen and watercolor, 18 x 12 in or 46 x 30.5 cm
Watercolor painting, water and rocks
Rocks and water, size of painting is 22 x 15 in or 56 x 38 cm.

Big works for me

I always loved drawing big or as big as I could depending on paper size. In high school, I was drawing life-size figures, huge posters. Well, Latvia was still in the Soviet Union, you couldn’t just go out and get a photo of a musician or modern poster because there weren’t any. I filled this gap and my paintings and drawings were very popular. I added to my stipendium during the University years (government paid students who had excellent results) income from drawing portraits of fellow students. It was a decent extra income which I immediately spent in old and rare book store. That explains why I do not draw and paint portraits while in Canada: I always did it from a real person, not photography.

Watercolor painting, lake, spring
Peaceful, lake view, watercolor, size is 20 x 16 in or 51 x 41 cm

My favorite subjects

We always had a garden and orchard ever since I can remember me. After helping my parents with most urgent work (we always had to work as soon as we were able to, like 5 or 6, and it was due to necessity of life, not my parents’ dictatorship), I sat down in front of some building, in a park or next to a flower or plant in the garden and just drew and drew for countless hours. When the drawing had all decent values, contrast and proportions, I was genuinely happy. I called my lines “completed lines”. If there was something not fitting in or sticking out, I started over. I developed my own style eventually since I had zero outside influence. Zero, and it’s a good thing. Although, I couldn’t study at art academy, I never gave up art and always kept it close to me.

Watercolor, spring landscape

Canada got me going on watercolors

The first paintings I did upon my arrival to Canada were all full sheet watercolor paintings: 30 x 23 in or 76 x 58 cm. This was the first time I ever had a real watercolor paper. It was Arches, 300 lb or 640 gsm. It felt like wood, and I loved it. Its cost was about 10 times less what it is now, and, yes, I used it for everything, even color tests. I was wondering how could the American and some Canadian artists get so much detail in their paintings because, realistically, what I cannot see, I cannot paint. This was the first time also when I discovered that artists were repainting photos, too. That was new since I was always told that repainting a photo is the worst of artistic sins.

Watercolor painting, spring, countryside
Early spring, rural hills watercolor, size of this painting is 24 x 18 in or 61 x 45 cm.

I chose personalized realism

I never went that direction myself, though. There was no need. I can draw effortlessly anything assuming I want to or that subject seems interesting. It also shortens the number of steps: there’s no need for taking, downloading and editing photos or getting printouts. Yet, I need the subject to be present. That’s not always possible, like in winter and so forth, therefore, I added memory images to my reference sources. Indeed, due to drawing so much I developed photographic memory over time. I have numerous large drawings in a few huge folders. They include plenty of landscapes and most often flowers, still life and birds, as well as buildings. When I go through these drawings, I can usually find something I want to paint, or I just look for a new subject outdoors or indoors.

Watercolor, perspective, building
Uphill, rural house, size of this painting is 21.5 x 16.5 in or 54.5 x 42 cm

I hope it looks good

I have scattered my watercolor paintings from previous years all around this post. Many of them were posted before, but image quality had decreased, so, these are new images. I noticed on the phone that an article with too much text doesn’t look good. These paintings include black pen and watercolor wash and only transparent watercolor paintings. I do paint very loose actually. Students who have attended my classes know that. When demonstrating a feature or a particular subject, one simply doesn’t have too much time. I use targeted brushstroke, generous amount of water and paint, as well as excellent quality, pure-pigment-containing watercolor paints.

Watercolor painting,, perspective and buildings
Early spring in rural village. Size of this painting is 18 x 24 in or 46 x 61 cm.

Realism it is, although, not strictly

I am not interested in abstract art, although, I can create it if somebody asks, for instance, for a commissioned painting. Completely abstract art doesn’t present me with enough challenge. The driving force for me is the subject, especially the challenging aspects of it, ability to create more complex and deeper paintings. I don’t care whether they look exactly like the real things. I want the viewer to get my message, the idea behind the visible lines and colors. That’s however, a theme for another post because these are aspects which internet display doesn’t bring to expression.

All paintings deserve being featured since my early posts get very little or no attention. I placed some on page for watercolor sales: 

Shop watercolor paintings

All prints can be viewed and purchased from FAA:

Thanks for reading!

92 Replies to “Life as art, creation as lifestyle”

  1. Thank you for this lovely post, Inese. I found the story of your life as an artist very interesting. And it was good to see some of your brilliant earlier paintings.

    1. Thank you Margaret for commenting!
      I’m pleased to hear you read this part of my story with interest. Well, my situation is quite different from many artists here in Canada.
      On a personal level, it wasn’t easy to start out again. I was and still am to a fairly big extent unknown here. That has big impact on self-confidence. Thankfully, I have lots of it and never doubted myself.
      It’s amazing to note that I always had better sales in the States, I mean, online sales. If I’d compare the number of followers and people who comment, big number of them is from the US. There are some Canadians, but much fewer.
      If I could chose, I would give preference to the US when it comes to any type of art. The appreciation and love to art is more visible and one has better chances to either sell or create art.
      I am grateful for any followers, however, and I appreciate interaction and sharing thoughts very much.
      Stay safe!

    2. You are very welcome. Actually, I have more followers from the US too. I don’t know the country at all. How nice that they are so interested in art!
      All the best.

    3. Thanks Margaret!
      I apologize since I was under impression you were located in the US. I later looked at your blog, and realized I wasn’t correct. That still doesn’t make my statement wrong about US loving art a lot. It’s no wonder people want to go to the US to become singers, artists, musicians, actors and so forth.
      Anyway, it’s interesting I found out more about you and looked at more of your art.
      Have a great day!

    1. Thank you.
      I certainly would love to think so.
      The thing I know for sure is that I’m very different when it comes to lifestyles and that is rooted in the background.
      I appreciate your taking time and commenting.

  2. It’s always interesting to me to hear about other artists’ background and journey. Thank you so much for sharing and especially for sharing your beautiful works of art. They are truly wonderful!

    1. Thank you very much Tania Marie!
      Like I said, yes, my story is kind of very different. I suppose, any immigrant could relate to one or another aspect of getting familiarized with culture and life in another country.
      My goal was, yet, much bigger. I have to admit, I’m not done by far, and lots of things will evolve until I’m satisfied.
      The thing with starting over at quite an age is probably the amazing part. We collect the achievements along the way and get used to our place on the social ladder. By 50, most people have a certain standing in society, culture and life. It is certainly a serious test to see if I can re-establish myself once again, and possibly do that even better than before. I’m working on it, tirelessly. LOL. It takes work and commitment, lots of it.
      I hope you and the rabbit are doing fine. I will return the visit at some point. Stay safe!

    1. Thank you Marina!
      I have to call this realism personalized because it’s not imaginative realism, it’s not hyperrealism, it’s not the rough total realism. I’ve been searching for better term, but I never came up with something which would imply exactly how I do it. I’d say that style varies from series to series and between the use of different medium. It might seem like romantic realism, but not always so.
      I never expected it to be so tough to get included in art community of another country, but, certainly, unlike my expectations, every single aspect of everything was different. It took me all 16 years to get adjusted and somewhat familiarize myself with what’s what.
      Formalities and bureaucratic obstacles are many. The native Canadians sail through these issues with ease and I must admit, I am still frequently wondering how to deal with them.
      I appreciate your comment! Have a great day!

    2. Well, thank you very much! I was frequently thinking about this term, and it is great to know that it fits and possibly even resonates.
      The last thing one wants is to create an impression that everything is a struggle.
      Creating art, though, has never been a struggle for me, and that’s a major plus.
      I wish you also all the best!

    3. Thanks very much! These comments help a lot, they kind of reassure that there are many kind people out there and they care.

  3. As a child I never could draw a decent picture unlike some of my peers, so I paid little attention to art, of any kind, like music, or painting, my world was made out of books, and reading, after my break up with my second Ex, in 1984 somehow I got an insatiable thirst to read about painting, and painters, I had an easy job at the time, and could spend many hours at a public library, reading about painters and their art, that got the bug in me to start doing some painting, and because my free time soon I painted frenetically for about a period of two years, and produced close to 200 paintings, where I lived at the time there were a few galleries that sold paintings to the tourist, and some offered me to take my paintings on consignment only, somehow I changed my mind after they sold a couple of my paintings, and gave me peanuts for my work, and employee tip me that they have sold them for a lot more money I had received from them, so I did not have space where to storage all those paintings I was producing, I left them at the house of my first Ex, with my children, somehow my Ex, managed to sell them all!

    I stop painting when I moved to the US and work time demands made hard for me to paint, I posses the last 10 paintings I did, and keep them with me, honestly I can tell my work in ideas are not bad, but poor in execution, need years of more practice in drawing, through many changes of addresses, somehow all my painting brushes, and oil colors had vanished, maybe I should try again, but somehow I doubt I will do it, just thinking where to storage my paintings give me a pause.

    It was nice to learn about your experiences with painting, Inese. 😊

    1. Absolutely fantastic story!
      I suppose there are no limitations when one can start painting as long as they have time and are willing to invest in attempts and art supplies. I also believe that when you feel something is necessary, you return to it. I believe you do not feel sorry for letting all art go. I, too, moved so many times that very many things, including art, got lost.
      I actually read a book a day between ages about 12 and 17, too. When I was 17, I started living on my own in the capital city of Latvia, Riga. Money was extremely sparse. Like I mentioned, government paid me a small stipendium for great results in studies, but I had never left over anything for food. I survived on potatoes (not fries, we didn’t have these), onions, peas and carrots for the most part.
      Initially, I never even thought about selling anything. Back there, in Soviet Union, it wasn’t any environment where you could do private business or something for profit, it was prohibited, just as income was strictly regulated. people did it, especially, if they had some protection in communist party.
      I adore young kids here in Canada and how they know everything about making money.
      I didn’t even know anything about taxes before I arrived here. It was all automated there and one couldn’t chose or do what they wanted.
      As I mentioned, it was all so new, and I was close to 50. It’s difficult to teach somebody who has their own ways of doing things, and marketing, publicity, advertising were never part of my life in Latvia.
      I didn’t have that feel to just go out and praise myself and tell others how good I am because that was exactly what was not allowed in Soviet Union, you needed to be humble and never put yourself first.
      That’s one reason why I didn’t get ahead fast enough. I didn’t fit, I was extremely different and I also knew only 1 person here. All friends and relatives were across the ocean.
      I tried to make friends, but it’s not the same at such age as, for instance, at 16. Not to mention, I absolutely lacked any contacts. So, it is what it is, yet, thanks to the website and the other blog, I have numerous people who I could call blogger friends. That proved to be a great way to meet others, and for me, it’s pretty much the only way.
      I still do not like social media at all, I simply see them as a way of imposing self-importance on others. Life teaches us many aspects and over years, we start recognizing what’s true and what’s pretense. I’ve become skilled in seeing many ways lies manifest, too, and it’s more difficult to be as if born-yesterday.
      I hope I won’t bore readers too much, it was only part 1. There’s more to come.
      Have a good evening and I hope life treats you nicely and you are safe!

  4. I got you, we grew up in different countries, and therefore have different experiences, I could say, because my reading in English since I was thirteen years old, and then move to the US in 1986 and live there until almost four yeas ago, I was able to have a dialectic perspective of life, now back in my own country I can’t but think, and behave a little bit foreign to my own country, if that its possible.
    In other words, see life with two different perspectives, and do not feel I am totally integrated here, or there, possibly the plight of many people as us, somehow with your feet standing like one foot on the pier, the other one on the boat, and uneasy feeling.

    Just six days ago after seeing a documentary on Youtube, about Gaugin the famous Symbolist painter:
    Gauguin: Symbolism’s Problem Child (Art History Documentary) | Perspective
    I commented:

    “I could say that I felled in love with painting , because of Gauguin, many years ago, I mean daring for me to take paint and brush and try it myself, read every book about him I could get my hands, on, and I am delighted as how well done this video was made, it brought in perspective all the stuff I had read of him through my life, and even learn a few forgotten, or new things that did not known, but was surprised he did not mention his daughter Aline death In January of 1897, and how Gauguin suffered when the news reach him, Gauguin did not receive the news until April. From Tahiti, Gauguin wrote to Daniel de Monfreid,”

    “Your letter arrived at the same time as a short but dreadful letter from my wife. She informed me bluntly of the death of my daughter, who was snatched from us in just a few days by a fatal attack of pneumonia. This news did not distress me at all, hardened as I have been for a long time to suffering; and then each day, as thought kept piling in, the wound opened up, becoming deeper and deeper, until now I am completely overwhelmed…”

    “Gauguin had only spent about 7 days with Aline over the previous ten years. He blamed Mette and sent her a series of hurtful letters filled with blame. In May, the land he was renting was sold and he was forced to abandon the house he was building and move to a different house nearby. Over the summer he faced financial difficulties as well as increasingly poor health and began to fixate on his daughter’s death. By year’s end, he had reached a breaking point and claimed to have attempted suicide by drinking arsenic.”

    “I loved his art, his life was miserable, and and over romanticized, he may not be an example to follow, but his art will live, he joined on him a strange combination of circumstances through his life, half French, half Peruvian, rich, and poor circumstances through his life, and he was good at many things, a true artist ended following a dream, that was no longer true in late 19th Century, the World colonized already and a true savage idea so dear to his mindset, already a fantasy, and his Symbolism that lived only in his imagination, but he created out of it his art that still touch us today, along with characters as Van Gogh, Emile Bernard, and many other of his contemporaries. ”

    Take care Inese.😊

    1. That’s true, after many years being away, you feel like a stranger in the native country because things change and move ahead, and in your memory that place is just as it was on the day you left. People pass away and they relocate, too, therefore, the circle of friends is very different also.
      I do feel at home in Canada now, but that’s not particularly because of human relationships. I still have only few acquaintances and 1 really good friend, that’s apart from my husband who is Canadian.
      Great art frequently originates from miserable and painful life, especially visual art and poetry. We know these few huge names of back then, but I suspect there were way more good artists which time has swept away.
      I didn’t know any artists’ works except maybe da Vinci and a few others, we are talking small provincial library in 70-s of previous century. The library wasn’t that rich in art or culture books, but I systematically read through all human attempts in various cultures from the ancient Egypt to impressionism in France.
      I never had any idols because I just didn’t know much about them. If I had to choose, so Cezanne’s still life would be what I liked a lot, especially the intense blue shades and the interaction between subjects on canvas.
      Well, these days are so different, and my personal goal is to achieve some particular spot on the artistic scene.
      The problem with internet display is that there’s no impact of size and there’s way less overall impact as compared to looking at art in person. I’m still romantic at heart, but I don’t like too sweet art. I’m not comparing myself with anybody, including big names or less known names, I believe one has to stay honest to themselves and exclude any influences.
      The intention of my story is probably to explain among other things how moving at an advanced age can interrupt everything one was known for and good at. I was extremely social and I am very isolated now, and that has impact on things one does. The impact isn’t always bad. It can be actually enhancing.

    2. Life it’s strange, but also it’s what is is, rather than accommodate our wills, I feel you leave, you lose, or you may gain, in some areas, and be deficient on others, we just have to learn to adapt, and try to be happy with what we got, but I guess we cannot, but miss what we knew, and now we do not have it.
      As for art, and History, I guess we all feel different, according to our personal taste, and experiences, sometimes shaped by what we know about a subject, the more you know, the more you understand, and are drawn to a particular subject, the minus part, you may not be able to look at the whole thing, and therefore miss other artist, and periods, experiences, and good stuff, that it’s just out of sight.
      Now that I do not need to pursue a regular job, I have more time to read, and explore other subjects outside my range, and can appreciate stuff, I was not into.
      When in Los Angeles I was able to look at art on museums, and galleries, so I know what you are talking about, now of course I do not have any other choice but to look on line, and books, luckily I was on Museums, and galleries for over thirty years, not today.
      As we grow old we run out of may things, specially time.
      So I try to be happy with what I got left.
      Best wishes to you Inese. 😊

    3. Thanks for the great comment!
      I never actually try to analyze what I have because it’s not that much of belongings except books, clothes I’ve sewn and paintings. I mostly always have had skills, knowledge, how-toes, very good memory, talent for art, design, garden, fashion, high level of responsibility and eagerness to always move ahead. What I mean is that what I have always moves with me and I cannot really lose it assuming everything is fine health-wise.
      Time is certainly disappearing faster and faster. I’ve read in books how people get horrible fears from age and getting older, already at 30 or 40. Thankfully, I really do not care about number of years. Trying to do everything and staying ok.
      When I talk about my art, I’ve got to admit that big part of it is done as demos and art classes subjects for students. It sometimes comes out great and I’m not throw it away. I have time to time wanted to focus more on things what I want to paint, I sometimes do, though, but not often.
      I probably told I never wanted to be a teacher, but so far that’s what I have always worked as, as a teacher, it just simply happens. It’s been almost 4 full decades, at high schools, colleges, private settings and as a freelancer.
      cannot wait when I can resume the live classes. I’ve never met anybody who did well because of online learning. I’m talking academic drawing, representation art and mastering subject and medium.
      have a good Sunday and next week!

    1. Thank you!
      Well, they were also painted a few years ago. I still like the pen and watercolor wash technique because it’s much faster than acrylic or even regular watercolor.
      I’m trying to save time whenever possible, such difficult task.
      I will probably keep posting some of previous images since the earlier posts, especially before 2017 when I moved blog to website have no chance to be looked at.
      I appreciate you stopped by and have a great day!

  5. Wow! Gorgeous paintings. Love how you painted the reflections in the water, beautiful! Loved hearing about your art journey. It’s such an adventure that never ends it seems. My art is continually evolving and that’s what makes it so much fun. Love your work 💖💖

    1. Thanks Maria!
      I noticed the comment very late at night, but I will try to return tomorrow with more.
      These are painting from about 7-5 years ago. I cannot always publish everything, but I have started to group them, and it’s good to see them myself, because over time, I forget what I have.
      Art and skills are always evolving regardless of how many decades one paints. It doesn’t always become better, but different for sure, more impressive, too. I switch between acrylic, drawing and watercolor. I get easily bored.
      I appreciate the nice comment.
      Have a good Sunday!

    1. Thank you James!
      I was just thinking about posting some drawings, it’s been a while since this article.
      It’s nice to know this type of art speaks to the viewer.

  6. Your determination to stick to your art and practice it as much as possible by any means is such an inspiration to all. Wishing you well as you continue to create and motivate.

    1. Thank you for this great comment!
      I think initially my desire to create was the result of necessity.
      Small kid who doesn’t have toys or anybody to play with needs to invent something to have a good time. I can imagine that people nowadays won’t even understand this. Soviet times in late 50-s of the previous century in Latvia were not about entertainment. It was very hard work for my parents 6 days a week, late into night. That wasn’t the end of work because after that they needed to do everything about the farmhouse. There was hardly anything in the stores, forget about any luxuries. No conveniences, no running water, but lots of work.
      Regardless of that, I find my childhood extremely great because that was when I discovered nature. I wanted to preserve what there was and capture what I saw. That developed my memory and eventually I could draw anything as if I had taken photo of it. I didn’t have camera for most part of my life, up to moment I arrived here, basically, I didn’t need it.
      So, my creativity was always fueled by necessity. That’s why I started sewing all clothes for me when I was 12, learned all things about gardening even before that, could cook anything also by that time, that type of experience. When somebody doesn’t have what they need or want, they can create it.
      I love creating, and I suppose it’s a natural path for me, – to create more since I am against consumption and consumerism.
      Thank you and have a good week!

    1. Thanks!
      This is part !, and there will be more after the show is set up.

    1. Thank you!
      I find that great that you felt as if being at an art gallery. Well, this post has just a few of watercolors from a few years ago.
      I intend to post a few more overviews with acrylic painting, watercolor flowers, drawings, etc. This was part 1, but, even though, I’ve written part 2, I’m too busy to post anything. Maybe next week.
      I appreciate you took your time and left this nice comment!

    2. Thank you! I am trying to put behind me all side effects. At first it was a small surgery, today I got vaccine, and it will take a moment to feel normal agian.
      I appreciate you stopping by!

  7. I think you are an extremely talented artist. Your paintings are a treat to the eyes. Everything, from colors to subtle lines, bears the mark of gentle and hard-working soul! Bravo!

    I am the co-founder of Auroras & Blossoms, which I created with David Ellis in 2019 to promote positive, uplifting and inspirational written and visual art, and give artists (ages 13 and over) of all levels a platform where they can showcase their work and build their publishing credits.

    We are looking for artists such as yourself to feature in our PoArtMo (Positive Art Moves) Anthology. We charge a small submission fee, but offer ongoing royalties to selected artists.

    Would you be interested in submitting something to us?.

    Thank you for your time!

    1. Thanks for your comment and invitation!
      I will have a look at the site you mentioned. If it’s a very young and modernistic site, I most likely won’t fit in. I’m almost 5 times the age of 13.
      Yes, I looked at it and it says 13-16. LOL, my grandsons are 22 and 18, so I’m way above that age.
      Have a nice Sunday!

    2. That’s what it said on page which I looked at. No worries, Cendrine, I don’t have time right now anyway. I’m in Ontario, and situation with vaccines isn’t that good, therefore, I’m spending lots of time trying to book an appointment.

    3. I’m not sure why my comment will not be published. Technology can be quite unruly.

      In any case, I have never mentioned anywhere that the age limit was 13 to 16 year old. Please make sure that you take the time to get acquainted with our website.

    4. I see all of your comments. Thanks for taking your time!
      When I get a chance, I will certainly look at your website again. I’m not sure why it looked like that to me.
      I have to moderate comments thanks to a few issues before, I’m sorry about that, but I suppose it serves me well. They appear with delay for that reason.
      I’m currently in one show from May 1st and that takes a lot of time, and I’m applying for an international show and that takes time, too.
      I’m really sorry for problems with comments, and I will revisit your site when I have more time, maybe next month or so.
      Take care!

    5. Sure, it can cause lots of issues.
      I’m also working outdoors at the moment, and I could not see your comments right away.
      Well, being busy is good, but it prevents me from posting on blogs and social media. Time flies and disappears.
      Besides, there is a newer post of the series. I’m not happy that all the vaccine and medical issues cause so many problems where I live. Our numbers are up big time and it’s a complete lockdown until May 19, and then we will see.
      Take care and no worries when I cannot respond right away.

    6. I am extremely busy as well, with all my projects and books. I have turned off my TV, and prefer staying home and working on things that bring me joy. 🙂

    7. That’s great! It sounds good working on what brings you joy.
      I never watch TV because there’s nothing to watch on TV we have, but I read.
      We couldn’t go anywhere even if we wanted, everything is closed. I wish I could get back to doing something nice. Maybe that’ll happen in June.
      It’s just basic chores right now and technical work on images, files, photos, etc.

  8. As a new artist, I found your life in art to be highly inspirational! Thank you for sharing your story.

    1. Thank you! That’s fantastic you find my story inspirational!
      I just published part 2 I think yesterday and there will be more. Well, I’ve been doing art for many decades.

    1. Thank you!
      Currently, there is a second part of the story. More to follow.
      At the moment, I’m preparing for online show I was accepted into, it opens tomorrow.
      I hope to have some sales.

    2. I am still working on the pages, everything will be all right.
      Have a good weekend!

    1. Thank you very much Sheri!
      Over years, there have been created many noticeable paintings.
      I am ok with displaying art online because that is frequently the only way now, but it lacks lots of impact because of the fact that size doesn’t come to expression.
      I was standing one day in the gallery side of this place and thinking: you create some great painting, it looks very impressive. Then, you take a picture of it and crop and it loses like 50% of it’s power.
      I believe I can figure out how to display art better, but, certainly, nothing makes more sense that being close to it and feeling its vibrations.
      Have a good Sunday!

    2. I agree. The full impact of art is lost somewhat through the lens of a camera.. but you can share it with the people who otherwise would never have the chance to see it in person. It’s a constantly shifting compromise.
      Thank you! Be well!

    3. Like with everything, online art shows have two sides. No active and direct in-person interaction and impact of devices are drawbacks, but ability to access such show or presentation outweighs the shortages.
      Realistically, viewing art online includes many devices: any type of camera, editing software on computer or phone, viewing device which can be all kinds of starting with smart phone and ending with large monitors, even TV screens. Every single device changes color balance, saturation, contrast and sometimes, like using iPhone, one can have only warm or only cold image while every painting, at least mine, has cold parts and warm parts. At the end, the imagine is not a perfect reflection of the actual painting, but I think the most what is lost is the size. Whatever the display, it’s usually not live size, and, therefore, even huge paintings do not look even big, that type of thing.
      Thank you very much for comments and have a great week!

    4. If only people understood how much time and work went into attempting to capture the perfect image of such beautiful works of art.
      Thank you and take care!

    5. Thank you Sheri!
      That’s true. Apart from painting and creating, numerous other tasks require attention.
      have a nice day!

    6. When you rent, that is inevitable. The longest was almost 10 years in one place, that was Whitby, and sometimes, it’s not even a full year and have to move again. It doesn’t always depend on the tenant, unfortunately. People get sick or need the place for themselves, that type of thing, or they want to sell. Canadian home prices are absurd, like you are talking nothing much of a place and more than a million. Where I am now, is a million dollar house by today’s prices if we would want to buy or could do that. It’s really nothing special with way more to wish for.
      I make a new garden in every single place, the same about art studio and classroom for art classes. It is a lot of work, a lot. I do sometimes paint the place when allowed, etc.

    7. Wow, that’s.. a lot. Really impressive but.. a lot. I hope you do it because you enjoy it and not only because that’s the hand life has dealt. I know all too well how it feels to be moving from one place to the next.
      And can I just say.. a million dollars? That’s unreal!
      I think it’s wonderful that you put so much into every new place you go.
      Stay safe and have a beautiful day!🌹

    8. Moving is horrible because I have to start everything over in each place, garden and look for students, not to mention months spent packing and unpacking. I keep now some things unpacked. That’s the worst there can be with unpredictability, uncertainty and so on.
      Well, the housing prices went up very fast in the Greater Toronto Area, became absurd.
      I’m writing about life and similar things in my other blog, https://inesepogalifeschool.com/ this is for art. Thanks!

    9. That’s so rough. There’s so much stress and emotional upheaval with moving, it’s exhausting enough but.. to also have so many other responsibilities and obligations on top of it? That’s a lot of pressure. I hope you’re taking time for yourself to just rest.
      Have a wonderful Mother’s day weekend!

    10. Well, it is, but there’s nothing I can do about that. I’m fearfully waiting for May 15, that’s when I find out we move or stay.
      My mom passed away in February 2019, that was when I was in Europe, Latvia the previous time, saw my daughter and grandchildren, more than 2 years ago. Grandchildren are adults practically, 22 and 18. Mother’s Day is not a day I celebrate in recent years, I get lost in memories mostly. I loved my parents very much, we were extremely tight family. My sister also lives in Europe, Latvia, very far away.
      We are still in a complete lockdown, in state of emergency, the entire province of Ontario. I regret I cannot get into my favorite second-hand bookstore, nothing more to read. They might lift the stay-at-home orders from May 20 or they might not. Time will show.
      I really need more action for my most recent post: https://inesepogagallery.com/2021/05/01/the-virtual-arts-market-takes-off/
      So far, no sales, but who knows. I probably sound somewhat upset, but 2 years without income will do that to anybody. And we have here more of this all-around insecurity and unpredictability at the moment.
      Happy Mother’s Day to you if you celebrate! Thanks for all nice comments!

    11. I am sorry to hear you’re so far from family. I come from quite a large, close family, too and we’re all over the place. It’s hard.. knowing how much you’re missing and how much they’re missing of you. Stay strong, I’ll be sending good thoughts and prayers that the 15th brings good news.
      It’s so easy to forget how bad lock down really is where you are and other countries.. Lord willing this will all have passed soon and everyone can get back to some semblance of normal.
      A Happy Mother’s day to you too, I hope!
      Thank you for talking with me. It’s nice to have a conversation with someone who isn’t my husband or cat!

    12. Well, that’s how it is. I’m fine, our life is the choices we make.
      It was great exchanging thoughts with you, too. Have a great weekend!

    13. I believe strongly that we end up where we’re meant to. That there is a purpose to all that we face and overcome. So.. I guess we’ll just have to see where life(and our choices) take us next.
      Here’s to hoping for all good things.
      Officially.. Happy Mother’s Day!

    14. Thanks you! That’s what it is. I’m writing a lot about that in my other life school blog.
      Like I said, I won’t celebrate much, maybe with a few online messages, but I wish you a happy Mother’s Day!

    15. That’s wonderful! I bet it’s makes for fantastic conversation with your students!
      Thank you! We did very little to celebrate but everyone made it through the day in one piece and sometimes that’s all we can ask for.
      Here’s to hoping for a good week. 🤞

    16. Thanks! https://inesepogalifeschool.com/ is about what I have learned during many decades being in medical research, comparing lifestyles in Europe and America and their outcomes on wellbeing and health and sharing the lessons about universe and its interaction with humans, that type of thing. In life, we’re all students.
      Take care, and I need these comments under the latest post. LOL. To bring more attention there.

    17. Thanks ! I meant I need more comments under the most recent post, not this one which is already history to some extent.

    18. No problem, I completely get that.
      It’s not good to work very late. I used to also work late in the night, but decided against that later because much of such work needs to be re-done.
      With medical jobs, I had tight deadlines, very tight and sometimes worked through night. It was terrible, damaged my perfect eyesight, was always tired. I’d never repeat that again.
      I knew bloggers who were blogging extremely hard and pushing themselves over the edge just to increase numbers. Most of them are long gone from the blogging space because it’s not worth it to brake oneself for some kind of imagined achievement.
      I hope you take things easy!
      I will have to probably close comments on this post because there are too many already and I need more comments under the newest post https://inesepogagallery.com/2021/05/01/the-virtual-arts-market-takes-off/. That’s ranking, never can get attention where it is needed.

    19. I can see how that would eventually wear you down. I probably am pushing myself a bit much but the late nights are mostly a night owl thing. Thank you for your concern! I will do my best to take care not to overdo it!
      And they can’t make it too simple.. We’d get bored.

    20. I’m night owl, too, have always been starting with early childhood when I was reading at night. I stay up late, as well, but I do only something very relaxing during that time. Which isn’t watching TV.
      But sitting at computer for very long hours (that was my work and I earned living that way) was very disturbing. I use now phone, computer and laptop as little as possible. Post, comment, etc. and leave. We must limit the exposure to screens big time.

    21. I know, I know. It’s been proven that screens damage your eyes, your sleep, and effect your mental state. But nearly everything we do, is now done with technology and.. we don’t always get to choose the best time to use it!
      Great way to take care of yourself! Limiting screen time would probably be an improvement for everyone’s sleep and mood.

    22. Certainly, the only existence is online now.
      I’ve known bloggers over years who were literally killing themselves with posting every day. When one lives alone and has no kids and no job, that’s possible, but when one has all normal family duties, has to take care about house and household or has kids, that’s almost impossible. Most of these blogs and bloggers are gone now since it’s just inhuman to spend life at computer or on the phone.
      Big pressure from any social site and any other internet space to stay in line, yet, it’s not always worth it.
      Along the way, we learn that some efforts are not worth it.
      I even don’t want to spend this small time at screen answering the comments, yet, they are nice and thanks!

    23. Everything is run through social media at the moment. It’s almost ridiculous the amount of time that’s spent using one screen or another.
      There never does seem to be enough time. I blog because, without children of my own or an average job to consume most of my day, I needed a way to creatively vent. This has been a wonderful way to do it.. but the amount of time and attention a blog requires? I can imagine it would be insanely difficult to maintain any kind of blog long-term with those obligations as well.
      Anyway, I apologize for filling your screen with so much! I’ll try to dial it back.
      Have a wonderful day! 😊

    24. Yes, good blog post requires lots of time.
      In my case, I also need to paint first what I post. The life school blog is different, but then again, I don’t have motivation enough not to sleep and post. There are more urgent things to cope with.
      I can understand why you’re doing blogging, and it is a great way to connect with other people. One should only watch out that it doesn’t become an obsession.
      Lots of blogs give advice, and it’s so futile and even annoying because one size never fits all.

    25. That’s got to be rough, I don’t know how you keep up with all of it, but it’s good you’re taking care of yourself.
      And, I’m starting to see how it could very easily become an obsession. You get so caught up in the topics, the deadlines, what people will or won’t want to see. It can take over. I’m doing my best not to let that happen.
      So long as you make sure to take care of your health and manage your other responsibilities.. it can be alright(sometimes) to become a little obsessed. You just have to remember that moderation is key.

    26. I have survived way worse times and situations. I’m a native Latvian from a very ancient culture, with lots of strong genes which allow not to lose focus and stay at the top of any issues. However, age is a factor and one cannot simply disregard it.
      To some point, I would love to be young right now. There are lots of amazing opportunities. We cannot choose the stretch for our lifetime and place of birth. That’s like you play with cards that you have been dealt. Thanks for all comments1

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