Despite everything, I went to our local sketchers group. Despite the early rain, attendance was good.
Grove of Maples
(With appreciation and gratitude to Ernest H Shepard)
graphite and fine point black marker on gray toned paper
July 18 2025
Despite everything, it is good to gather with other artists, sit in drizzle which turns to sun, drawing in silence while bees buzz, working together yet separately, a community of artists.
Despite everything, I water my tomato plants with the hope they will ripen before the coming of winter.
You Say Tomato
Oil on sanded paper
10” x11”
Despite everything, I go to the studio, start a painting, start a print project, put another layer of ink on a piece of paper.
The House by the Road
Monotype/ Work in Progress
2 layers (so far)
6” x 6”
Despite everything, I sit outside, feel the sun on my face, cut back branches along the driveway, buy more coffee, order paint, feel the pull of the ordinary against the rushing chaos coming from he who claims to be our leader, watching everything tumble in his malignant wake. Despite corruption, despite cruelty I still brush my teeth, wash dishes, give in to sleep in the hope I will get to do it all again tomorrow.
Despite, or maybe because of, everything, I am so grateful you are all here with me.
Thanks for sharing how you keep on keeping on by doing what you love and are talented at. I know it's not easy. But I am so glad that art is your refuge in these cruel times.
Right there with you, Anne. The little pleasures help to make life bearable (pun intended) during this insane period in history. I don’t have your incredible artistic talent, but as of this spring I am a cancer survivor and take real pleasure in walking in nature, savoring good food, spending time with friends. I’m still here and I’m not going to let the bad man ruin my life.
Thank you for YOU. I love the panda drawings and stories and am ridiculously happy when you post new stories and/or political comments….keep it up!! Jan