It's been a tough week. Next week will be another one. This is not to whine, but is by way of explaining my low profile of late and in the next little while. I won't be absent. I'll just be a bit scarce. Then, I hope, for an easier period and lots more studio time.
Today, I needed a break. I went to our university art museum to sketch Buddhas. This has helped my state of mind before.
Instead, I was drawn to a ferocious-looking figure called Bishamonten, chief deity overseeing the four cardinal directions of the universe. Here's how the museum describes him: "Energized by swirling draperies and a fiery demeanor,... Bishamonten ...is a powerful force for both protection and transformation." It was after drawing him that I realized that I had been behaving like Bishamonten with some members of my family. They know who they are.
Only after making this oddly autobiographical sketch, was I able to approach Guanyin, the Boddhissatva of mercy and make a sketch of her.
Thanks for all your great comments, everybody! Susan, you're right--I seem to have hit on a topic many can relate to! Captain Elaine, you're so right, too. And Miss Kate, you're ALWAYS right ;D.
Posted by: Laura | January 21, 2009 at 06:19 PM
I really like this work.
http://racheteapaintersdiary.blogspot.com/
Posted by: rachete | January 21, 2009 at 01:03 PM
I love the expressions on both of them - beautifully done, Laura. I feel better after contemplating them for a while.
Posted by: Casey | January 21, 2009 at 06:36 AM
Wow, he's scary! Great drawing. The other picture isn't coming through by the way - not sure why. It might just be blocked to this PC, it's a bit random in what it does...
Posted by: Rachel H | January 19, 2009 at 04:29 AM
Funny how trying to protect and transform brings out the Bishamonten in us. I adore Guanyin's merciful haughtiness - delightful sketches as always, Laura!
Posted by: Cathy G | January 19, 2009 at 01:58 AM
What wonderful, fluid drawings! Powerful too!
Posted by: Peggy Stermer-Cox | January 19, 2009 at 12:09 AM