A Re-Imagining

Judith Reeve, “Breakers,” 20″ x 30″, oil on linen

I love plein-air painting because the experience of being in an environment is deeply entwined with the image-making process. But many times I return to the studio from such an experience not completely satisfied. I long for more- more of the sea and surf, more time to dwell in the image, and a deeper immersion in the event. There was an element present that moved me beyond myself that was partially indecipherable in the moment of applying paint to canvas. And I long to seize this ephemeral quality.

Over the years, I have found that I cannot, in a sense, let go of certain paintings. I continue to develop the image itself, transforming it through multiple paintings or mediums. When I had access to a lithography press, many images would end in a print. Only then could I let go. These images, developed in this way, are some of my finest works. There has been an interior voice calling me to manifest this image, and I am compelled to acquiesce. These images are like glyphs that need translating- they need the time and attention to speak from that spring that lies within my being.

I find that these dark days of winter allow me the space to meditate and reconnect with the loose ends of images that seek a re-imagining. In the past couple of weeks, I have delved into a Maine landscape from my summer excursion. I loved the epic quality hidden in this small image that was attempting to burst from its confines and re-emerge in its proper scale. How dare I leave it so small, making it difficult for the viewer to enter! This churning surf seeks to roar in your ear and spray your face with mist- hear the cracking and rolling of the rocks and the shock of the rising wave crashing ashore and reaching upward to join with the sky… Let the spectacle encompass you, calling you to come forth from your sheltered existence, cut off from the vastness of being. Can a painting even do that? Can a painting become an invitation to embark on an inward journey or act as a window that allows you to peer into another form of existence?

An Update: “The Color Investigations of Robert Henri” has had many unfortunate delays due to difficulties in typesetting Henri’s notations, among other things. It has come “unsprung” more times than I dare to mention. It looks like the book will not reach the public until sometime in the spring. It is truly a work of devotion. I ask for your patience as I work out the kinks. I will keep you posted! Thank you for being so supportive.

Author: Judith Reeve

For nearly 30 years I've developed my painting practice in the studio, building on what I leaned from my student days at the Lyme Academy of Fine Art. Along with my daily journey creating images which I write about here on this blog, I am also currently writing a book on the color practice of Robert Henri. View all posts by Judith Reeve