One of the side benefits of writing these weekly posts has been gaining a more thorough appreciation for and understanding of the art of editing, not just in writing but across the board.
Jonathan Shahn, Seated Figure, 1978, pencil on paper, 17 x 14 inches The emotion in this fluent drawing by sculptor Jonathan Shahn thrums with a quiet strength.
What I’m learning through regular writing, and now in my life drawing sessions, is what a steep hill there is to climb in figuring out how to get the full measure of a message across while trying to remain concise. I have a hearty respect for those who seem to have a talent, whether innate or through hard work, for distilling their thoughts into neatly succinct points, granting us access to a deep well of ideas with a minimum of lines, either written or drawn.
The art of haiku skewers the heart of a universal idea or feeling with such accuracy that one might consider it something of a miracle in a handful of syllables.
The snow is melting
and the village is flooded
with children
~Kobayashi Issa (1763-1827)
I’m sure it won’t surprise you that I was thinking about and inspired by Shahn’s and Issa’s editorial abilities as I drew this week.
Elbows on Knees ©2018 Elizabeth Fram, graphite on paper, 24 x 18 inches
Profile ©2018 Elizabeth Fram, graphite on paper, 18 x 24 inches
On Another Note__________________________________________________________________________________________
If you are near to central Vermont, treat yourself to a visit to Studio Place Arts in Barre to see the current shows. In the main floor gallery Pleased to Meet You! is a wonderful mixture of works that bring fantastical, imaginative creatures to life while providing a welcome break from reality. Hannah Morris’ The Feast of Fools, collaged paintings and soft sculptures in the Third Floor gallery, “explore the intersection of the sublime, the absurd, and the mundane in recognizable moments and places”.
Both exhibits run from March 27 – May 12, 2018.
I walked away from my afternoon visit at SPA uplifted by how successfully it models the best of what a community art space can be: galleries, studios with accessible artists, and an executive director who actively engages and educates visitors without being intrusive. If you can, go see for yourself.