Jewish New Year/Rosh Hashanah

 

The Jewish New Year starts at sundown on Monday, September 22nd this year. It is the year 5786 according to tradition. The year starts not on the first day of creation, but on the 6th day when Adam and Eve were created. 

May you be blessed with a good and sweet year. As this past year was very stressful and difficult for my family, I am praying for a better year for all, freedom for the hostages and peaceful conclusion to all the conflicts in the world. I know that is unlikely to happen, but I will continue my small part with occasional art, daily kindness to all and once in a while a new poem.

Starting again

 

• Shadowland, Oil paint, 12" X 16". A moody landscape, an imaginary one.

I haven't felt like painting much this year with all the moves (twice in one year) and stress, but I'm determined to start again. I have played a bit with watercolors, acrylics and photos, but it's not the same as oil painting.

I am settling into my new "over 55" apartment building.  My studio is now a small bedroom and not really conducive to painting, but I'm trying. I miss the good lighting and big room I had in my house, but I can manage if I get my attitude on right. I miss my creative impulses and need to work on my mental state to stay positive more.  As I am approaching 80 next year, I realize how important that is, now more than ever. I hope I can continue to create more art this year.

 After many months of stress, moving, and dealing with medical issues, I finally started painting again. This is a gray owl in acrylic paint on canvas, 14" X 14". I'm not sure if it's done or if I will tinker with it more.  I did enjoy painting the owl though.

We downsized from a big house to a small cottage in July.  I no longer have my art studio, just a small bedroom which is both an office and painting space. It was difficult to move, but necessary. My husband has not been well and is now in a memory care center. He fell many times, damaged his eyes and has had multiple surgeries. He is finally able to see a little bit and use a walker. He was in a wheelchair for many months. Unfortunately the original facility we were in was not adequate for him and I moved him last week to a small group home where he is getting better care. 

The emotional stress and my own aging physical issues (mostly Parkinsons tremors) made it difficult to paint. I am hoping to go out again with the plein air group this week and try some small outdoor (or indoor as it may be too cold) paintings at the greenhouse. It is fun to paint with a group of artists and uplifting to my spirit.

Wishing all a better 2025. Happy new year.