This canvas background image I like the diverse use of colors and the depth. This style of blending different colors together, so far, accomplishes what I want with a background: a straight forward delicate balance of self-effacing mix of colors that projects interest, and a new look for this art,

It took me a while to find this image of Mark Rothko, that for me, best portrays this artist. It reminds me of another, more famous image by Rembrandt. I relate in depth to both artists, especially Rothko in his style and rectangle canvases. These two images have pointed me back in a direction that, over time, my pride has selfishly pushed aside. This art was supposed to be about the art and only the art from my first music painting in early 2006. It is a reminder of who I once was. That original artistic purpose has encouraged and supported me throughout the years, beyond my expectations. But there has been at times a wavering. If I focus on originally what gave this art life, then that means I must subjugate concerns for fame and fortune. The enormous benefit to this is that I can avoid the typical pressures all artists eventually face when driven by the need to compromise their art for exposure and financial gain. Nothing wrong taking that path, but I prefer to follow in the spirit of Robert Frost: “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” The difference is this art only has to please one person, me. This then allows no constraints, no rules. I chose my own compromises. I chose my direction. I chose all the decisions about this art. This allows me to reject conflict, remorse, disappointment, and frustrantion. Therefore, when I wish to, I can play the art game without expectations, for my goal is clear. To be true to oneself, I know the work ahead has only one direction, down that path that is far less traveled.

What I mean by chasing my tail seems obvious from my comments above, but I will summerize: It’s the art, stupid. Never forget, it’s the Art. Therefore, your’re direction is obvious: keep on keeping on.

Scott Von Holzen