Diary Of An Artist In A New World

Christmas 2007

Christmas in Sydney is a time of hot days, outdoor activities, and family togetherness. My boys loved the PlayStation 3 games console they got for Christmas this year but they also loved helping ice the Christmas cake (Ashton and Anton) make Boxing Day dinner (Gian), lunch at Hungry Jack's in the city and so on. I loved having them stay overnight, and cooking for them, and seeing their joy when playing with the PlayStation console.

The Post Modern Christmas Tree

Last night the boys and myself decorated our Christmas tree. At first they were typical boys and just chucked some tinsel on quickly. It looked terrible. So after some chastisement and instruction on thinking aesthetically we managed to improve on the first effort.

Leif's 18th Birthday

Last night we celebrated Leif's birthday. His birthday is actually not until the 24th and it tends to get overshadowed by Christmas so it is nice to acknowledge it earlier like this. Of course it is his 18th, a big milestone in the transition to adulthood and an independent life. This year he had graduated a few weeks ago so the gift also reflected that.

Summer Rain In Kings Cross

Yesterday was wet with strong winds. It was difficult trying to take these photos, keeping steady against the wind on the umbrella while shooting one handed and trying to keep the camera dry. As always I love the rain, it is a visual feast of altered tones and harmonies of Grey, and the reflections are always beautiful. These photographs were taken while going to the supermarket and returning to the studio in William Street.

This first photograph is of the walk up the hill to the supermarket. It is on 2 levels underground beneath the Coca Cola sign. It is about a 3 or 4 minute walk from the studio front door. These views are what I see almost every day, although, of course, with ever changing weather and moods.

An Artist's Breakfast In Summer

Mango and Lady Finger Bananas. A plate in from of the computer, and the list of things to do today. A simple ritual that I love. I read emails, check Google News, and enjoy the fruit. The classes have been draining me of late, but I need to thank them for this breakfast. There were many dark years when I could never afford fruit except as an occasional treat. So for me I value the simple pleasure of a bowl of diced Mango as a great treasure to be savored and enjoyed as a special gift. An artist who has been through very hard times appreciates very simple and basic things.

Christo And Jeanne-Claude In Person

Yesterday I had the great privilege of listening to Christo and Jeanne-Claude talk about their work, and afterwards actually meet them. As a couple they are as fascinating as their art works. Two beautiful people with an extraordinary vision. They are a delight to listen to. Like great performers they know their lines well, and have developed impeccable timing. They play the audience like puppetmasters, yet for all that they are open, and surprisingly candid about the intimate details of how their work comes to fruition.

Where Did That Month Go?

Almost a month without a post in the Diary! Don't worry I have not been abducted by aliens, but sadly, nor can I offer the excuse that I have been working on a painting. The sad truth is a combination of factors, much of which was out of my control. This is what happened: