Inspiration

Dave and I are wrapping up our finals! And also, I just wanted to share another bit of happy news in my life. I just found out that I was accepted to the BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) program at Brigham Young University. I can't tell you how incredibly excited, yet humbled I am to get the opportunity to study art deeper. My painting teacher at my final today reminded us of the importance of a humble, willing, dedicated heart when it comes to being an artist. There is always something to be learned. One part of my life, Art Education, has been quite challenging (because of my fear of talking in front of people and basic lack of knowledge of the art world!) but also quite rewarding. It has help me to increase in knowledge and passion about art. Art education has changed my views of art completely and opened my eyes up to a visual language I never even understood before. Contemporary artists are blowing my mind day after day in my art criticism classes. I cannot believe that I used to believe that all art meant was rendering or drawing a picture accurately. Although I still believe that this is very important in a lot of art, and my style requires rigorous study of academic (realistic) drawing, some art can just be beautiful, and not be of anything really except a feeling, or an offer of a new point of view. Lots of installation art right now just takes "found objects" and puts them together in interesting ways. Here are some fun pieces I just found recently.

Love these! Tons and tons of colored chairs smashed in between two buildings. And umbrellas! Isn't that fun? I love this kind of stuff.

As far as the kind of style I want to have, these are some of my recent inspirations.

Justin Taylor

Sean Diediker

J. Kirk Richards (great name :) )

John Singer Sargant

...and how could I possibly leave out

Rembrandt? (This painting is of the Prodigal Son)

beautiful self portrait

Anyway, you've probably have had your fill about art. Basically, we are both quite happy, and anxious for finals to be over so we can see our friends and family. Isn't Christmas the best, with all the parties, traditions, and wonderfully delicious food? I also love the great things the church puts out this time of year. Make sure you don't miss the newest Christmas video on lds.org.

Hope all of you have a wonderful, family filled holiday season!!!