Alas, I've not been thankful of late. To my horror I have even, at times, come to wonder about being an artist.

With all that is going on in the world, specifically with the economy, I like many other artists, languish in and among our artworks which stack up in the corners of our studios.  I continue to exhibit and have galleries to help show and sell work, but little sells.  I keep painting; as much for survival and personal satisfaction as for possible sales.  It gets harder as time passes.  Harder to keep my spirits up and be upbeat; to search out the beauty all around us and transpose it onto canvas.  I’ve always believed it was an artist’s function to record the uniqueness and wonder of life; to show the possibilities, show what we are capable of doing and being; to elevate minds and hearts.  Art can and does uplift not only our spirits; it has the ability to change our lives forever.  The reality today though is art is being eliminated from daily life.

I have come a long way and learned a great deal and every day I can paint I am thankful.   I am thankful for having been chosen an artist. I didn't chose it, it chose me and I am thankful for the joys and pleasures being an artist has given me. I have offered my services and talents to causes; I've given work away to meaningful drives and movements and received great rewards in so doing.  I have managed to meet some wonderful artists and well as buyers, who appreciated my work enough to hang it in their homes.  I have seen sights many pass by and never take time to notice.  I have had the means and ability to express my thoughts and ideas on canvas and put them out into the world for all to see.  I’ve traveled and seen many things. I’ve been able to have quiet time alone and have direct contact with nature in its entire splendor.   I am thankful for these things.

I am too old to hold a 'regular' job and too 'young' to sit and wait for death.  So I continue to paint and I am thankful for the studio time and the ability to create yet wonder if the only one getting any pleasure from it is me.

It is ironic, being an artist holds such promise of giving back to society yet many still see art as either a dalliance or commerce or something to match with the color of their sofas.  I continue to hold to the belief of thankfulness; I observe the appreciation and admiration of those who consider my work yet are unable to afford to purchase it no matter the price.

I am aware that after my time here, most of my work will possibly be sold or given away at little or no cost.  I am thankful someone will appreciate it enough to hang it in their homes.