First day after a few weeks of happily fussing with our new home to be back at the easel; just the smell of the linseed oil brings me joy.
I have been working out a large and complex composition and in so doing one of the details has caught my attention.I have decided to make this detail a painting in of itself.
In many ways I hesitate to start this large canvas until after our upcoming trip to Mexico City and most especially a pilgrimage to Teotihuacan.
Not surprisingly the larger painting deals with a struggle between the Old Gods and the New. Of particular inspiration is the Gnostic concept of the envious Demiurge Yaldebaoth (Yahwah) who wishes to curtail man’s access to the Tree of Knowledge. Part of my composition might or might not include a reference to this most familiar narrative, but in the mean time I was inspired to craft a painting from the sketch.
My interest in this subject is not in the tired misogynistic trope of downfall of Man at the hands of the willful Eve. Instead I want to depict that moment of knowledge as a celebration, of Eve, of Adam, of the poor maligned serpent, and the glee and blessings of the Old True Gods (depicted in the roots of my Axis Mundi). This interest may be part of my ongoing desire to free myself from the Judea-Christian nonsense that has haunted me since boyhood. Early on I thought it ridiculous that an All-Knowing Creator would wish to stingily hold onto his wisdom, leaving his creation naked, stupid and merely content to worship Him.
sketching in And the Old Gods Were Pleased
Part of the composition for the afore mentioned larger painting has involved some “character” studies:
The Axis Mundi
Tlaloc
For now I am happy to be painting, loosening up a bit, just happy to paint as I can and as I feel fit.
That might be the most difficult challenge of expression, being true.
Until next time, take care and be well,
Lg
Boondocks Babylon 