In whatever space I have, I have found that the most important item, the thing I can't do without is a relative small item. Bigger than brushes and paint tubes, but smaller than easels, desk or computers. This thing weighs sightly less than 3 lbs. and fits in a space about the size of two fists put together. It is also highly portable, comes with it's own support system. I actually depend on it more than any other tool I use.

Have you guessed what I'm talking about? Yes? it's my brain! If I'm not mistaken, you have one too! Wow! How awesome a coincidence is that? It becomes the most essential element for creativity at my/our disposal. Built right atop that complex mobile support system we call our body. 

I am counting on all this being true, and that this is the key to using every other creativity tool I have, quietly awaiting my command.

So then, I ask myself, how well equipped am I? Wondering how my brain, the tiny but powerful creativity center within my little four walled studio, will operate. There is a lot of potential but is that enough? 

I have seen painters who are obsessed with creating whatever haunts their brain. They can't rest until they get it out on canvas. I, myself have had a few years living like that. When I painted from early till late and produced much and learned a lot more. 

Still, I ended up wondering why am I doing this? To sell? To create? To make a name for myself? Why? What is so important that I devote so much time, to exclusively, and intensely painting another canvas? What am I going to end up with? Sales usually prove to be few and as far as people go, I get polite compliments, so I feel like some even like the artwork. 

Nevertheless In the end, I have concluded that I have accidentally become the largest collector of David L Friend artwork in the world… how's that for an accomplishment? Admittedly, I do enjoy painting and being creative. Every painting carries a story and memory for me. 

In the olden days, I used to do work that people paid good money for. Planning and designing homes mostly. A useful way to use artistic creativity. But now, many are the times I wonder why did I ever think I could be an artist making money at creating artwork? I suppose that after I was laid off from my old career, I thought now is my chance to be free, be an artist, and paint whatever I want to. 

I guess, wanting to… that's why I do what I do.

I've said it before, If I paint, it is because I get something from it… but, I still ask myself, is that enough? Isn't that a bit selfish? Is there anyone else who gets something from all this?

Again, is there any good purpose I am fulfilling?

Well that is more of a question than I can answer right now. Here and now I know one thing… I have an artists studio, and it has potential. I have a complex creative center seated on top of my mobile support system. What will become of these when I combine them together to do something? 

Who can predict? Who knows… stay tuned. 

Dave