Happy New Year! We’ve had a hell of a 2024 with everyone trying to scare the crap out of us. One pundit’s logo is literally two men shouting at each other. Had enough yet?
Here in rural France with cows next door and rosy fingered dawn illuminating the peaceful countryside, I still can’t escape the news. But I can focus on the good stuff: lovely students, amazing husband, friends, food, and painting. So here’s some positive New Year’s resolutions. Or to be clear, plans for the New Year.
GOING SMALL
I’m going to focus on making small, striking paintings. Simpler, more immediate, and not including the kitchen sink.
STUDIO
I’m planning to build a small studio in the garden. We live on a hillside so the studio needs to be on on stilts. French planning permission can be quaint and infuriating. Now that the Paris show is over it’s time to visit the mayor’s office and figure it out.
YOUTUBE
My new Youtube channel is underway. It will include snippets of my French life and art life in the countryside. I’ll also have short videos with drawing tips, ink techniques, and other art class-type stuff. Ink is interesting. You can’t erase it like charcoal or pencil. You can fudge it and fake it, and make mistakes into features. Kind of like life. I love it.
LIFE DRAWING
I’m also planning a life drawing class. The challenge around here is to find a model who will take off their clothes. And this will not be online! If you live nearby consider a new experience! Or at least spread the word.
ETC.
Anything else? Well there is the usual eat healthy, exercise and lose weight stuff. But this year I want to take my art forward. Can I do that and fit into my trousers as well? That’s the plan.LMC
This article is taken from the January issue of my monthly pdf magazine, Living & Painting in France, which has just been published. If you would a FREE subscription click here.