riotheclown

Okay, so  didn't paint this! Marc Chagall did. Some of Chagall's work seems to tickle an unknown part of my brain so much that I have to come back again and again to it. Nothing like my "style" which is no disadvantage, believe me, but something of my memory...? or dreams?, that when I am truly lost in depression it is a sort of "sense" of this non-sense that comforts me.

I tried an homage to him with this:

called Sally, for my friend who committed suicide three years ago. Not a painting, just pencil crayon.

She had asked me to paint something from a photo she took on the west coast. I do find it interesting that many people find relevance and relief in images for what is hidden. Art is essential if often discarded.

I took a trip to the west coast years ago.  I mean, the mountains really have the last word when it comes to making an impression.
I love coffee.  I love coffee beans.  I found a place that roasts the beans just like they did when I was in Kenya and got completely addicted to coffee.  Sweet and oily without adding anything and enough caffine to charge you up for miles.
My teachers hands...  When you go dokusan everything is luminous and clear. Even what is not said is as important as what is because everything informs your natural intelligence. 

wedding portrait painted by ryojin 2004 commissioned oil painting not quite finished when photo was taken

Not my fav. subjects, ha!  but this was a cute couple from the 50's celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.  The "kids" wanted a painting of their wedding photo, a very small snap.  I thought it turned out well except last thing the daughter said, "the skin tone is all wrong..." so I basically had to do it all over! in three days.  It was still wet and I made her carry it un wrapped on her lap on the plane because if it smudged I would have murdered her, to hell with the money!

You can guess why I am not very successful as a commissioned portrait painter.  No lack of talent just no patience!