Any time we see all in black and white, things might not be well. This work is primitive and expresses raw emotion. Black paint was slopped onto half a dozen 12 x 12 in linen canvases when I felt lower than low. Some of the canvases had words written on with marker under the paint. Some of these words show through. When doing the overlay I didn’t care if they did or they didn’t, I'd made mistakes when writing the words in ink... I was really fed up. Usually, I turn to painting to raise spirits. When I can’t create imagery that pleases, there’s very little left that can. Most people have experienced extreme lows. They wouldn’t be human if they didn’t. I hesitated to post this imagery on this site, but if its being here is helpful to others—announces that they are not alone in their pain and despair—that will make me smile.

The series that followed—of my dogs—shows light at the end of the tunnel. After periods of negativity, it’s good to seek out anything/one that has potential to be positive, and shift focus The black and white work, resembles chalk board scrawls, some faint, some not, hesitancy and impulse, shame and shun. The series that follows, Love (with my dogs) is stronger and bolder. As 2011 closes, its creation helps set me back on track, more prepared and optimistic for 2012!