Sometimes life throws painful situations at us and it's up to us on how to deal with them. Last week, one of my favourite uncles passed away suddenly. He had been ill for some time but his autoimmune disease was under control. Unfortunately, a complication from a regular in-out procedure stole him away from us. His death feels so crippling to me, but I have been trying to use my grief as an "excelerant" for creating artwork.
I've been playing with an old hardcover book for a while; toying with ideas and occasionally doing something on a few pages. Last week, I started using the book as a means for expressing grief. I suppose most people call it 'art journaling'. I'm simply using it like a visual diary and I'm really liking it. I'm not great at expressing myself verbally, and this is turning into a great way of getting stuff off of my chest. It is especially good when most of my thoughts feel like lumpy gravy and trying to articulate them is like trying to get the lumpy gravy through a fine strainer. It's not always a good scene!
The first painting I did in the book was done last week when I was feeling quite angry. I just did the second one the other day. I am starting to feel a bit better about his passing now.
"Life Without Love is Like a Tree Without Fruit"
The memories of your love and your laughter will live in our hearts forever.
You will be missed. Rest in peace Uncle Len.
You will be missed. Rest in peace Uncle Len.
What a wonderful tribute to your Uncle HornCat. I loved your description of how difficult it is to articulate grief. Sounds like you have found a way that works for you.
ReplyDeleteYes, Art can be a relief!... Nice art journal; I like how you keep bright colors even with pain in your heart ...
ReplyDeleteThank you Fabric and Sybilline. I'm glad that I tried out this kind of artwork; I am really enjoying it. the bright colours are certainly a tribute to my uncle. I only have good memories when I think of him.
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