Did this painting as an emotional response to the murder of
Timothy Thomas in Cincinatti, Ohio (around 2003/4). I could go on a long rant about doing art that highlights wrongs, champions those who've been taken away so unjustly,etc. But I wont, less talk, more rock, right? All I can say is that I hope by not only painting what is wrong...that by painting what I'd like to see (and what is possible)that my art wont be made in vain. And I don't particularly care about winning the "most angry and down-revolutionary-or whatever popular term is in use this month-award". I just happened to be going through old work and found this painting, which a good friend owns now.
It frustrates me to no end to see the same thing happen again now with
Trayvon and
Shaima. Its been happening right under our noses every year for a long time now. Almost ten years have passed since I painted this and other very angry pictures, about the time Trust your Struggle was founded. I still get angry, but since I have a choice of what to do with my energy, since I've grown; I plan to use my imagination to create something. I'm not sure yet what that means, but it won't be a tactic the "righteous" or the "wicked" have seen yet. Ride with me...
hey rob!
ReplyDeletei think the painting was/is a very good one. it's sad to see that things haven't changed at all. i really need to remember the comment you made: "I still get angry, but since I have a choice of what to do with my energy, since I've grown; I plan to use my imagination to create something. I'm not sure yet what that means, but it won't be a tactic the "righteous" or the "wicked" have seen yet. Ride with me..."
Hey! Thanks for the love! Yeah, sigh its frustrating sometimes. BUT one huge difference is the fact that the word was able to be passed around in a broad, amplified way, and because of people voicing their opinions the killer was arrested. This time. We'll see what happens, but I appreciate the sentiment! Hope you are well and practicing your art...
ReplyDeletewell that's good that they caught the killer. reading your comment just sparked something in me...like a direction i want my art to go. i am doing awesome and my drawing has improved. i have a question though...there are some days that my drawing turns out really good, and then there are times i just can't get it together! is this normal?
ReplyDeletehope all is well with you too!!
ReplyDeleteHey, of course thats normal! It varies w/ every one, and i mean everyone from pro's to beginners. I think the main thing to keep in mind is "fun". The more you do art that makes you happy, the more you'll want to do it. And the more you do it, the more in shape you are, so to speak. Making something that looks "good" or "dope" is pressure you dont need, just have fun! Hope this helps.
ReplyDeleteit does...thanks!
ReplyDeleteI'm with you mang...
ReplyDeleteRight on player, thank you
ReplyDelete