“It is art that makes LIFE, makes INTEREST, makes IMPORTANCE, and I know of no substitute for the FORCE and BEAUTY of its process.”
– Henry James
We’re artists and creative cohorts.
And we love to share our passion for artistic expression.
Thus this gallery.
The heart in art’s process animates and energizes our life in interesting ways that we also enjoy sharing with others.
Our artistic choices express from two very different directions.
Ray is an active fine artist.
His work is here now.
I am making my way back to my art and yearn to be messy.
You will see my work here – eventually.
We also plan to share this space with other artists.
But for the moment, it’s just us.
We hope you enjoy your time here.
And find a piece of inspiration to hang on your heart –
If not on your wall!
A Note From Ray
In 1965, after completing my Christmas shopping, I came upon an art store and found myself just standing and gazing in the window. I followed the impulse inside and walked out with $50.00 worth of basic art supplies. That New Years Eve I sat alone and drew my first pictures. I will never forget the experience of following my creative instinct.
That new way of seeing the world around me led down many creative paths but did not honor my true nature as a fine artist. I was always at the party but never took the floor. Now, to dance with the lady I came in with is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life!
My work today, in my studio or out, is to inspire and support the creative instinct in all people and to encourage them to see the beauty in the things that are so easy to overlook.
About the Artist
Ray is available for art commissions and private instruction, as well as creativity coaching for artists in greater Atlanta and surrounding areas.
He also conducts classes on drawing, acting and the creative process through a local senior services program encouraging seniors to express their vitality and the treasure they are as keepers of our culture. He advocates the importance of creativity, not just as part of a program for seniors, but also as an essential aspect of a healthy community.
Ray’s passion for the creative process weaves through 39 years of overlapping involvement with commercial art, fine art, advertising and acting in Detroit, New York, Atlanta and Los Angeles.
His professional experience initiated in 1968 as vice president of an art studio that serviced advertising agencies in Detroit. When the “actor” emerged in 1969, he moved to New York. A member of the Screen Actors Guild, Ray’s experience is predominately in film and TV. Integrating his love for acting and art with life experience, he is dedicated to helping others use these crafts to identify, develop and enjoy their own unique strengths and abilities, no matter what their path.
A Note From Bernadette
If you arrive here before my art does, you will find me blogging about my journey back in “Musings from the Messy Room.” Here’s a few posts to tide you over.
Awareness: Shoe Boxes & Found Objects
Sunday Scribblings #238:
What Do You Make of Curious?
As for my artist’s statement and bio? Well, I’m working on that …