Arlene's Blog
A Life Lesson from a Torn Canvas
There are times when life deals you a bit of the unexpected — crappy weather on your one day off, the cancellation of something you had been looking forward to, or a tear in something you’ve been working so hard on. The list goes on. Challenges can be incredibly frustrating, but they are there to teach us and help us grow (and to make you feel so much better when things do go smoothly).
When Things Don’t Go According to Plan
An earlier post touched on a large art piece I have been working on. (see “Currently on the Easel” post) I know we were all looking forward to seeing it finished — no one more so than me. As it happened, in the process of rearranging my studio, I managed to knock the canvas over into a sharp edge, causing a small but definite tear along one side.
Now the question remained: do I attempt to fix the tear and continue painting, knowing it will never be truly saleable or archival? Or do I abandon it completely and start again?
Is It Worth Fixing?
It’s a life lesson in and of itself. In a world of “plenty” and instant everything, we have to ask — is it worth fixing?
Too often, things are abandoned or overlooked simply because they aren’t perfect or no longer seem useful. Perhaps it’s time we take a closer look at the damaged things in and around us and try to fix them as best we can.
A Little Tape, Paint, and Tenderness
With that in mind, I did a little experimenting with canvas repair. With some tape, paint, time, love, and tenderness, I managed to restore it to the point where I should be able to finish the painting. While I’ll always know where the flaw is, it will likely end up on my own wall somewhere — a quiet reminder that life is full of flaws and accidents, but can still be beautiful, appreciated, and enjoyed.
Progress, Imperfection, and Moving Forward
While the piece is still a long way from finished, progress continues to be made in the right direction. Much like life itself.
Today — as tough as it may be — I challenge you to find the beauty in the broken, and to learn to appreciate the flaws both in and around you. Squeeze whatever happiness and joy you can out of your days.
Back on the easel
What do you do when the moon is full and your lying in bed unable to sleep? Why you get up take care of unfinished business. This is the same one, started weeks ago. I’m sure you are all eager to see the progress. The tiny tear along one side is still visible (life if full of the unexpected and sometimes we need reminders that not everything has to be perfect)
I’m planning on finishing it and hanging it somewhere in my house as a reminder that flawed imperfect things can also be beautiful. I’m not sure if it’s quite done yet but I believe 12:30 to 6:00 AM last night was enough for one sitting.
Stay tuned…this one may develop a little further yet…
Remember: we can’t always control the things around us, but we are always responsible for our reactions and actions to them.
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