I'm super excited to be in the final interview process for a public art project in Alameda county.
The East County Hall of Justice in Dublin, California is ready to hang art on its walls and I pitched myself as an artist during a Call for Artists (with no expectations at all.) Now here I am preparing for an interview next week to see if my work will grace the walls and cheer the folks who pass through and work inside the building. Those people include the District Attorney and staff, the Public Defender and staff, people who visit either office and, of course, all the folks who keep the building running. It's a huge honor for me to be considered.
My idea is to do what I currently love to do: paint dogs and cats that I have met. Why? Because the crazier the world gets, the saner and more comforting these creatures seem to me. Dogs are always happy to see us, they are in a good mood, they have hope, they are in the moment, they are enjoying being alive. (And they might enjoy it more if we throw the ball again.) Spending time with a dog is like therapy. Cats can do the same thing, if they choose to. They can comfort, calm and reassure us that all is well in the moment. Cats have a quiet serenity that I admire. I try to be like them, but mostly I'm more like a dog.
This is Bandit and he is good, loving and loyal.
This Doodle is always thrilled to make a new friend. And we are all her friends.
My hope is that my art will someday be hanging in the new East County Hall of Justice making people smile and feel good. Can't think of a better purpose for my images. Wish me luck, baby!