A new piece

 

I started a new canvas last week in a format that I have never used before - it is 12 in x 36 in and just perfect for what I had in mind.  Two of the photos that I have used as transfers are photos that I have taken and two photos were taken by a friend who has let me use them. 

 

While working on this piece, my husband made the comment that I don't use my own photos in my mixed media pieces.  This comment made me realize two things.  Number one, he doesn't pay attention to the photos that I take!  He was with me on the beach in San Diego when I took the top photo and he was walking on the deck of the Disney Cruise Ship with me when I took the picture of the ropes and rigging. I don't know if I can change his awareness but I CAN control realization number two - which is that I don't go enough places and take enough inspiring photos! 

 

We live in the Midwest, in a small town in Illinois.  We are close to Saint Louis, Missouri and this is where he was born and raised.  But, as hard as I have tried, I am not at home here.  I'm restless for the beach, which was a constant for me until we moved here.  I miss the coast and I desperately miss my time in history-rich Europe.   I am not motivated or inspired by the views of corn fields on my way to work and the same corn fields on the way home every. single. day. 

 

Bottom line - I'm bored. 

 

BUT I know that I can find inspiring views here if I try.  So I will try.  But at the same time, I have decided to stop waiting for him to be ready to go places and experience things.  I HAVE to travel.  It is part of what makes me who I am.  A few trips over the next year are now in the works.  And I will be happier here when I get back from a road trip full of inspiring vistas. 

 

Plus, I will have so many photos of my adventures, I can create pieces with all my own photos and not need to borrow any! 

 

I have a feeling he may regret that comment that sparked the wanderlust again!