Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Moving on

'Black on White'
A Work in Progress

I should really start by offering my sincere apologies to all who follow or read my blog for the long delay between posts – thank you to those who have emailed concerned at my whereabouts, it’s nice to know I’ve been missed. I’d only intended taking a couple of weeks break, which to start with were fine, but just when I was preparing to throw myself back into my portraits life got in the way – and sadly none of it good.

Unfortunately I am not a strong person and someone who I loved and trusted for many years literally took it upon himself to destroy life as I knew it and while he was at it crushed what little confidence I had left. Trying to cope and make sense of his hate, all of it completely undeserved, has been a feat in itself and so hard to deal with that unfortunately my art (amongst other things) has suffered in the process. But, as the saying goes, life must go on and I do have commissions sitting waiting for me to complete. At this point I’d like to say a huge thank you to my customers who have been very patient, supportive and understanding at this time - it is much appreciated.

Things will take time to recover and I have to accept that fact and as a result I wont be working on my commissions as much as I’d like for the foreseeable future. Posts may therefore be a bit sporadic over the coming weeks/months but I do hope you stay with me as I’m not giving up on my art and will definitely be continuing with my blog.

During my summer break I did make a start on the above pencil drawing of a black Lab and actually don’t have much more left to do on him – his left leg needs finishing and various touch ups here and there should see him done. I love working with graphite pencils and should really do more with them – I actually have a reference of a Weimaraner that is screaming to be done in pencil so watch this space. First though I have a gorgeous Cavalier King Charles Spaniel called Bruno to do in coloured pencils and he is on my drawing board as I write, slowly coming to life. All going well I should have some progress shots to show in the next couple of days.

16 comments:

Sue Clinker said...

Hi Laura
I think you are stronger than you think. You've overcome a lot already and have a host of friends and admirers 'on your side'.
I love your graphite labrador - your artwork is better than ever :o)
Look forward to seeing more work soon. xx

Debbie said...

So sorry to hear of your recent unfortunate happening in your life, Laura, and will pray that things get better. I think all artists are especiallly sensitive to negative and hurtful happenings in our lives. May you find joy and peace again in your art as you are indeed a very talented artist and bring joy to many.
Debbie

Colette Theriault said...

Hang in there Laura. I'm saddened to hear about your latest news and how it is affecting your life and ultimately, your art. I hope you find strenght and comfort in knowing that others support you and wish you all the best.
Looking forward to seeing your latest work as it is truly astounding and inspiring. My best wishes.

Teresa Mallen said...

Oh Laura, I am so sorry. I had hoped that your absence was due to you having such a blast during your break, that you extended your break!

Listen girlfriend, if you are dusting yourself off and moving on - then you are a strong person! It is okay to be reeling from a major wounding. You will land on your feet. Yes, take the time you need to recover and heal. Here is my two cents worth of advice: don't waste any of your life energy trying to figure out his hate and don't let him crush your confidence. Claim your life, start over (again) if you have to and choose to be confident!

Oh and by the way, this piece is truly lovely. You do fantastic work in graphite (and cps of course!) I love the dog's pose.

Take care, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Mona Diane Conner said...

Laura, I have a blog too, and I know that if it's interpersonal it can be hard, so I hope it improves for you.

Sally Lancaster said...

Laura, this is absolutely beautiful!!! He hasn't taken your talent away and it's so great to see you working again. Yay!! :-D

Gillian McMurray said...

Hi Laura, It's so nice to see you posting again and with such beautiful work (as always). It is important to look after your self though. Emotional disappointments are always hard to deal with. As I'm sure you've heard, time will help with the healing. I'm sure we'll all be waiting to see your future pieces whenever you feel like posting them :o)

Heather Page said...

HI Laura,
I'm so sorry to hear about the hardships you've had to endure. I agree with Sue...I think you're stronger than you think and I know you'll eventually get through this. I'm really glad to see you back, even if it's sporatic. I LOVE your work and I can't wait to see more. Lots of best wishes being sent your way!!

Laura said...

Thank you so much everyone for your comments and support - they all mean a great deal to me. It's comforting to know you are all out there rooting for me (and still following my blog:))

Thank you again:)

Deborah L. Duffield said...

Beautiful job with the graphite, Laura! Think this is the first time I have seen you work with graphite...do more!! Curious to know what grade graphite pencils did you use to get those great blacks?

"Keep on keeping on!"

Debbie

Laura said...

Hi Debbie and thank you - glad you like him:) The grades of pencils I used were 4H, 2H, HB, B, 2B, 4B and 6B - hope that helps:)

"JeanneG" said...

So sorry about the problems. Remember what doesn't kill you will make you strong. You've won the first battle now on to the next. Hugs from the US.

That lab is beautiful and I love the pose. Can't wait to see more.

Laura said...

Thank you Jeanne:)

Elizabeth Ruffing said...

Wow, this drawing is gorgeous! I'm so sorry you are going through a hard time right now, but please don't let someone else take away your confidence. You are a very talented artist...don't pay any attention to anyone who tries to knock you down.

Take care,

Elizabeth

Melissa Muirhead said...

I just wanted to say that your work and talent are amazing and I'm sending good thoughts your way. Trust your inner strenght - it is there. I love your work and find it so inspiring.

Laura said...

Thank you Elisabeth and Melissa - your comments are much appreciated.