Motivational Blog
Dear Bully, Yeah You (Me)
Dear Bully, yeah you (me), I can see you don't go around pushing people, insulting them, sticking their hair in inkwells, that sort of thing. But you do single people out. You find something you don't like about them. You may not even know exactly what it is, but...
Reviews Are In for 33 Variations
Here's a lovely, thoughtful review of the show, this by wonderful art spirit that is Olivia Pool of ART MAG. We are so lucky here in Charleston, to have the support of our media as our many artists throw themselves into their passions. The review also has a great...
Hoping is the Great Curse
"Hoping is the great curse" Beethoven, from 33 Variations Keeping dreams alive that can never be is a form of insanity. This flies in the face of those who have bought into The American Dream and other delusions fed to us by those who desire to control us. Better to...
Beethoven and God
In answer to Schindler's question about the Opus 31, No. 2, Beethoven replied, "Read Shakespeare's Tempest." Much is said about listening to your inner voice and soul, which is all well and good. But first you have to connect your inner voice and soul with others. ...
Interview with “Beethoven”
An interview with Sara Coy for the Threshold Theatre production of 33 Variations 1. Where did you grow up? What drew you to theatre and the arts? I grew up in a household full of the arts in St Clair Shores, Michigan. I remember hot summer days of intense creativity,...
Which Came First, the Art or the Artist?
A friend posted, "you don't have to be an artist to create art." Yes, I suppose if you created art that would qualify you as an artist. But only an artist can create art. Most people simply aren't willing to risk looking foolish in the attempt and will never rise to...
Creativity and the Definition of Art
"Creativity is allowing oneself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep." I've been saying this for many years as a teacher. The idea that giving ourselves total freedom to do anything at all and calling it art, may sound absurd, but it is a great first...
Madness and Art
In his turn, in a letter to a friend, composer Zelter from Berlin, Goethe let him know of his meeting with Beethoven: "I met Beethoven. His talent astonished me; nevertheless, he unfortunately has a tumultuous personality, which is not completely wrong in thinking...
Orphan Relief Gala Performance Painting
Orphan Relief Gala and beautiful people I performed this sketch of Mary Playing the Violin at the Lowcountry Orphan Relief Gala, last evening, where it was auctioned off to raise money for first responders in cases of child abuse here in Charleston. I was given the...
Why Do It?
Why Do It? This is the most important question we can ask. "I have never thought of writing for reputation and honor. What I have in my heart must out; that is the reason why I compose." Ludwig van Beethoven As I prepare for my upcoming role as Beethoven in 33...
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"Reflections on Nothingness" #existentialism This #painting is not a design choice; it’s a commitment to keep looking into the #mystery rather than numbing out. “Reflections on Nothingness” is a #meditation on the space between presence and absence—the quiet, unsettling recognition that everything we cling to is, in the end, temporary. This piece is for collectors who are not afraid to sit with the bigger questions: mortality, consciousness, and the strange beauty of existing at all. Hung in a study, retreat space, or #contemplative corner, it becomes less a decoration and more a companion for the long, honest conversations you have with yourself. Let me know if you'd like to the whole painting ... See MoreSee Less
A lot goes into making a #oilportrait. Hands, drapery, leather chairs. I am going beyond #likeness; I make every element as true and deep as possible, without them taking away from the main event, which is soul of the sitter. That's the #art of #portraiture. Let me know if you want to see the entire #portrait are interested in creating your legacy ... See MoreSee Less
“Light” is a #painting about the moment before everything changes—the quiet split-second when intention becomes action. Set against a swirling, cosmic backdrop, the hands of God (or man?) hold earth or another planet to the flame of destruction (or enlightenment?). The painting invites you to consider both the beauty and the weight of what we choose to ignite in our lives. It holds the tension between our power to create and our responsibility to care. #Light is for those who think deeply about #purpose, #stewardship, and the mystery of #existence, “Light” becomes more than an artwork. It’s a daily reminder that even the smallest spark—an idea, a conversation, a decision—can shape entire worlds. There’s a moment—right before we act—when everything is still possible.
“Light” was painted for the people who feel that weight: the therapists, teachers, spiritual guides, scientists, and quiet leaders who know their choices ripple out farther than they can see. If you’ve ever looked at our fragile little planet and felt both awe and responsibility, this piece is meant to live in your space. A reminder that what you choose to ignite today matters. Where in your life are you ready to strike the match? ... See MoreSee Less
Have you had an #oilportrait of your #children made yet? Now is the best time to #create an #heirloom #portrait by one of America's top portraitists. ... See MoreSee Less
"Jennifer's Flowers" is a recent painting. Can you see how it is a depiction of lovers? How does it make you feel? ... See MoreSee Less
What is existence? Are we really spiritual beings, made in God's image? #existence #charlestonsc #painting #artcollector ... See MoreSee Less