Thursday, November 18, 2010

A Ritual


Every three or four days after D shaves, we go into my studio where he poses, either sitting or standing. We listen to music or talk or it's just silence  - and then I’ll say “This isn't too difficult is it?”  After a lengthy pause when I figure he's not going to respond, he says,  “It's not as difficult as waiting for the bus.” Occasionally he asks,  "are you going to give me any hair?"  Of course I say in due course.


 portrait of David, clay, life size unfinished


15 comments:

  1. Wonderful work Marcia! Talk about being versatile with different mediums. Very impressive.

    Doug

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  2. Doug it's great to hear from you!
    I've been thinking about you. I think a while back you threatened to post some more drawings. I wish you would!! They are great.

    Marcia

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  3. A wonderful portrait of Mr. D, and what a sweet fellow. I can't believe he would ever even hint at a problem with public transit, him being such a fan and all.

    Super work. Say hello to D. for me.

    Love Barbara

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  4. This portrait is wonderful Marcia! I don't know the sitter obviously but if you haven't caught his inner character I'd be very surprised. Looking forward to seeing more of the progress. Oh, I like it without hair.... :)

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  5. Wow! It's not for me to say, but I wouldn't touch it. It's so very full of life. Sculpting souls isn't easy, but you seem to have done it here.

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  6. Thank you Barbara. I know you know his position and every time he drives the car I'm tempted to josh him. I have to say this, in his defense though, that he mostly gets around on a little folding bicycle!
    love, Marcia

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  7. Hi Peter, Thank you! I wonder if the way I'm handling clay is somewhat similar to the way you're handling oils, in a tactile sense that is. As for hair - not optional, ha ha
    Marcia

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  8. Sam, I took those photos two weeks ago! My unconsionable hand is still wielding clay, his soul is under revision, yikes. But thank you! you made my day with that comment!
    Marcia

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  9. Yes! Sam has it. You have sculpted David's soul, caught a moment in which a strong and thoughtful character is expressed and done so with skill and elan.

    You are a fabulous sculptress. I am in awe.

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  10. As a matter of fact, Melinda, D likes to remind me that he's only made of clay after all! - meaning not to ask too much of him. anyway this is becoming quite hilarious and has completely brightened my day.
    Now if I could only guess where you went when you went to New England!
    xo,Marcia

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  11. Ha! I admire your husband's humility. Ah, yes, we are but dust. However, in your capable hands, your husband is full of life!

    It's always a delight to visit here and to hear from you.

    You are a winner!

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  12. Thank you Melinda! I am thrilled! Now I have to choose between the preserve of the prickly pear! Yes or the exotic mesquite flour - I look forward to this - I have to think - will email you
    xo, Marcia

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  13. Yip, I our handling is similar, measured but immediately expressive :)

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  14. Marcia, The strength in this portrait is very moving. I am so blown away by your sculpture. Thanks so much for sharing,
    Flora

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  15. Flora! It's wonderful to hear from you! thank you for your kind, warm comments!
    Marcia

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