I've been reading and rereading "The Art Spirit", a book that compiles essential beliefs and theories of a great teacher and American artist, Robert Henri. It's so inspirational. I love all of his stunning work, but am particularly taken by the painting below - La Reina Mora. The woman in the painting seems so alive, doesn't she? I love how vibrant she is, and how real. One can almost feel the wonderful fabric of the dress and shawl she is wearing, and almost remember her bright smile and her voice.
La Reina Mora, 1906 - Robert Henri
Here are some of Henri's words of wisdom:
"It is harder to see than it is to express. The whole value of art rests in the artist's ability to see well into what is before him. The model is wonderful in as many ways as there are pairs of eyes to see her. Each view of her is an original view and there is a response in her awaiting each view."
"A worker or painter should enjoy his work, else the observer will not enjoy it. It is not good to wear lace that was a drudgery to someone to make. The lace, as well as the picture, should be made in joy. His works are full of the beauty of his enthusiastic interest in life. All real works of art look as though they were done in joy."
"The only sensible way to regard the art life is that it is a privilege you are willing to pay for."
What a wonderful influence he is on our minds and our souls.
Here is more of Henri's work:
Edna, 1915
Marjorie in a Yellow Shawl, 1909
Lovely!
xoxoxo
That painting is gorgeous. I'm not familiar with the painter, but I'll definitely look him up now!
Posted by: K @ BlogGoggles | March 23, 2009 at 11:52 PM
Tina, Hi.
Thanks for visiting my site.
So far after poking around at your site I think it's right up my alley. I like it very much.
Thanks for introducing me to Robert Henri.
Regarding your BANGS post. I've just grown mine out after 15 years of having them. It's just a phase.
Posted by: Hazel | March 24, 2009 at 05:52 AM
What a beauty she is! Your site is full of inspiration - so happy you found me and I found you.
Posted by: P. | March 27, 2009 at 06:56 PM
Thank you for introducing me to this painter. I just came from "What Possesed Me" blog where she featured his Salome.
Posted by: Yoli | March 31, 2009 at 08:16 PM
Wow, thank you for introducing me to this wonderful artist...learn something new everyday...the portraits are beautiful!
Posted by: Kirti | May 01, 2009 at 10:16 PM