We all had no idea what would befall us this Spring 2020. Life as
we knew it stopped short. There was much trepidation with the virus
and with the economic situation. We were all forced to hunker down
and be with ourselves and closest family. "Quarantine in place" became
part of our vocabulary. Artists rarely have any problem with this
except that now it was much different. Fear seemed to take over the
whole world. Social media turned volatile. The supermarket aisles
were empty. Loved ones got sick and died.
In bad times, artists always have to keep a chin up, as uncertain
times can come frequently. This is part of an artist's life. We chose
this path of do art or die. But it really is not a choice. It is a
calling. We also have an ongoing duty to our collectors and peers. We
do art anyway; healthy or sick, rich or poor, mad or glad. Multiple
shows were canceled due to Covid 19 where I was to participate in
or paint live at. I was still lucky to have done my last Solo show in
Sarasota Florida which turned out to be a success. My very first
invitation to the Formula 1 in Montreal CAN to paint live was of
course cancelled. Art Expo 2020 is postponed for the fall. In short,
all of my main sources of income were canceled.
However, during this exceptional time, when all the world was
hunkered down, we artists also continued to hunker down, as we always
do. No use in wondering who is going to spend money on art in all this
uncertainty. Just get into that studio and keep painting, is what I
told myself. Just keep sharing to social media to brighten up spirits.
Don't think, just paint!
And then something happened. I found the themes of my work changed.
I was no longer working on sophisticated abstract themes, but was aiming
to bring the sunshine into my spirit and dream of happier times. Thus
the Sunflowers. And the Lilies. And the bolting horses. And sure enough,
a few sales started to come in, from out of the blue! (Blue is my
favorite color.)
My sympathy goes out to those that suffered loss during this time,
both healthwise and economic. We are not out of the woods yet, but I
think I see the sunshine...on the beach...in the garden...in the
sunflowers...but no doubt a changed world going forward.
Some New Things
I have started some fashion items in my
shop. Luxurious leather Art
Crossbody Bags for her. They are inspired by popular iconic fashion
brands who depict the masters on their exclusive and elusively expensive
bags. Here you can have an exclusive Lewis original, for a fraction of
the price, but very similar top quality. Check them out! Further
fashionable high quality items are being planned.
Check these out and more, such as my Limited Edition Prints in my
SHOP.
Thank you for your time! Be well and healthy!
