The Pursuit of Perfection in Art: An Illusion

Why Artists Should Embrace Imperfection

The pursuit of perfection in the realm of art is an elusive and unrealistic endeavor. It is an illusion that can bring forth fear and anxiety. Instead of allowing oneself to be consumed by the unending quest for flawlessness, it is essential to embrace one's imperfections and recognize the inherent limitations that come with being human. By doing so, artists can cultivate a healthier mindset that fosters enjoyment in the process of creation and continuous learning.

 The relentless pursuit of perfection can stifle creativity and innovation.

The relentless pursuit of perfection can have a stifling effect on creativity and innovation. When fixated on achieving an unattainable ideal, artists may find themselves trapped within the confines of their own self-imposed limitations. The fear of making mistakes or falling short of perfection can prevent them from taking risks, exploring new techniques, and embracing alternative artistic possibilities. This self-imposed pressure can become a significant barrier to artistic growth and self-expression.

The Beauty of Imperfection

Instead of being driven by an insatiable desire for perfection, artists should strive to find fulfillment in their art by embracing the beauty of imperfection. Every stroke of the brush, every note played, and every word written is a unique expression of the artist's vision and emotions. It is within these imperfections that the true essence of art lies—the raw authenticity and humanity that resonates with audiences.

The Benefits of Letting Go

By letting go of the pursuit of perfection, artists can liberate themselves from the constraints of self-doubt and anxiety. They can focus on the joy of exploration, experimentation, and self-discovery. It is through this process that artists can unlock their true potential, pushing boundaries, and creating truly remarkable and meaningful works of art.

Perfection in Art is an Illusion

The idea of perfection in art is an illusion that can bring forth fear and anxiety. Embracing imperfections and acknowledging limitations is crucial for personal and artistic growth. By letting go of the pursuit of perfection, artists can nurture their creativity, explore new horizons, and find fulfillment in the journey of creation. It is through imperfection that true artistry can flourish, touching hearts, inspiring minds, and leaving a lasting impact on the world.

The Art of Salmon Filleting: When Fish Becomes an Expression of Creativity

Thanks to @Riofelax for his video.  Check out his tiktok page to see more of this artist in action 

The Beauty of Salmon Filleting: The Fishmonger's Creative Journey

Have you ever stopped to appreciate the artistry behind fileting a salmon? It's not just a skill; it's a true form of artistic expression. In the hands of a skilled fishmonger, a simple fish knife becomes a brush, and the salmon becomes a canvas. Let's dive into the mesmerizing world of salmon filleting and discover how it transcends mere technique and transforms into a captivating art form.

The Dance of Precision : Finesse, and Flair

Every movement of the fishmonger's hand is a deliberate act of artistic precision. With finesse and flair, they navigate the fish knife through the salmon, crafting fillets with exquisite detail. Each cut is like a brushstroke, and the fishmonger's skillful touch brings out the best in both the fish and their craft. It's a symphony of cuts, a choreographed performance where every slice is executed with grace and purpose.

Tradition Meets Artistry

Salmon fileting is a marriage of tradition and innovation. While the fishmonger pays homage to time-honored techniques, they infuse their own creative flair into the process. It's a delicate balance between preserving the culinary heritage and pushing the boundaries of artistic exploration. With every filet, the fishmonger adds their personal touch, incorporating innovative approaches that showcase their unique style and artistic vision.

The Fishmonger's Craft on Display

When a fishmonger filets a salmon, it's not merely a service they provide; it's a captivating performance. Whether it's in a bustling fish market or shared through platforms like TikTok, the fishmonger showcases their passion and craftsmanship to an eager audience. The audience becomes witnesses to the artistry, marveling at the seamless flow of the fishmonger's movements and the stunning outcome—a beautifully fileted salmon.

Appreciating the Art in Unexpected Places

Salmon fileting is more than just a culinary task; it's a testament to the artistic potential found in unexpected places. The fishmonger's hands become the brushstrokes, transforming a fish into a masterpiece. So, the next time you witness a skilled fishmonger at work, take a moment to appreciate the artistry in motion—a fusion of precision, tradition, innovation, and pure passion. Let their craft inspire you to find art in every corner of the world, even in the seemingly ordinary tasks of everyday life.  

Thanks to @Riofelax.  Check out his tiktok page to see more of this artist in action

The Transformative Power of Art: Enriching Lives and Inspiring Growth

 The social political painting is about Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She was a trailblazing lawyer and judge who served as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1993 to 2020.  In the 1970s, Ginsburg became a leading litigator for women’s rights. She argued six landmark cases before the Supreme Court, winning five of them. She challenged laws that treated men and women differently based on stereotypes and sought to establish equal protection under the Constitution for both sexes. She wrote influential majority opinions on issues such as gender discrimination, disability rights and environmental protection.  She was widely mourned as a legal icon and a cultural hero who inspired generations of Americans with her courage, intellect and integrity

How Art Can Change Your Life: The Science and Magic of Creative Expression

Art has a profound impact on our lives, reaching far beyond mere self-expression. It influences our thoughts, emotions, and perspectives, often leading to transformative experiences that reshape our worldview. Recent research has revealed that individuals who regularly engage with art possess heightened open-mindedness, empathy, and creativity, showcasing the true potential of art in enriching our existence and fostering personal and societal growth. In this blog post, we explore the captivating power of art and its ability to inspire, transform, and connect us on a deep level.

A Personal Journey of Discovery:

For many, the transformative power of art becomes evident through personal experiences. Such was the case for me when, in my late forties, I embarked on a spontaneous visit to the Getty Museum. It was there that I encountered Vincent van Gogh's breathtaking masterpiece, "Irises." In an instant, my perception shifted, transporting me to a new realm brimming with ideas, emotions, and limitless possibilities. This encounter opened my eyes to the unexplored depths of life and exemplified the extraordinary capacity of art to reveal our innermost selves while forging connections with others.

Transcending Boundaries:

Art, in its myriad forms, transcends the boundaries of language and culture. It communicates through the universal language of emotions, uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds and offering a shared experience that surpasses conventional barriers. Whether it is a captivating painting, a soul-stirring sculpture, or a mesmerizing musical composition, art possesses the uncanny ability to evoke deep-seated emotions and elicit profound responses within us. It serves as a powerful bridge that connects people, fostering understanding and empathy in an increasingly interconnected world.

Inviting Introspection and Self-Discovery:

Engaging with art encourages introspection, providing a space for self-reflection and self-discovery. As we immerse ourselves in artistic creations, we confront our thoughts, beliefs, and experiences. This process not only deepens our understanding of ourselves but also nurtures a heightened sense of empathy as we recognize the common threads that connect all of humanity. Art becomes a catalyst for self-growth, prompting us to explore the depths of our own identities and fostering a greater appreciation for the diverse perspectives of others.

Inspiration and Intellectual Stimulation:

Art acts as an inexhaustible source of inspiration and intellectual stimulation. It sparks our imagination, fuels creativity, and ignites the flames of innovation. By exploring the vast tapestry of artistic expressions, we broaden our horizons, embracing new perspectives and expanding our worldview. Art's ability to challenge conventions and provoke thought drives personal growth, propelling us towards self-actualization. Furthermore, it cultivates a harmonious coexistence within society, where individuals are encouraged to express themselves authentically and appreciate the diverse perspectives of others.

Embracing the Power of Art:

Art transcends its role as a medium of self-expression. It possesses the extraordinary ability to move, persuade, and transform us. Through its profound impact on our thoughts, emotions, and perspectives, art enriches our lives, fostering open-mindedness, empathy, and creativity. Delving into the realm of art allows us to embark on a journey of self-discovery.

The Joy of Appreciating Art: Exploring the Depths Beyond Being an Artist

Impact of Art

Art has a profound impact on our lives, offering a window into diverse worlds of creativity. While many may assume tht art is only for those who aspire to become artists themselves, the truth is that appreciating art can be an incredibly fulfilling experience for anyone, regardless of their artistic ambitions. In this blog post, we will explore the captivating realm of interesting art, shedding light on how it can inspire and enrich your life.

The Beauty of Imperfection: Art that Reflects the Artist's True Self

When artists embark on a creative journey without predetermined outcomes, they open themselves up to the exhilarating prospect of something truly unique. The absence of a rigid plan allows for artistic discoveries and surprises that breathe life into their creations. The allure lies in the exploration itself, fostering a sense of adventure that takes you on a captivating artistic expedition.

The Beauty of Imperfection: Art that Reflects the Artist's True Self

When artists embark on a creative journey without predetermined outcomes, they open themselves up to the exhilarating prospect of something truly unique. The absence of a rigid plan allows for artistic discoveries and surprises that breathe life into their creations. The allure lies in the exploration itself, fostering a sense of adventure that takes you on a captivating artistic expedition.

The Art of Honesty: Art that Reflects the Artist's True Self

Among the captivating aspects of interesting art is its remarkable honesty. When artists create pieces that reflect their true selves, flaws and all, they forge a connection with viewers on a profound level. It is this raw authenticity that makes art relatable and empowers it to touch the hearts and minds of those who encounter it. By embracing vulnerability and portraying their genuine selves, artists create a powerful and resonant experience.

Tips for Creating Interesting Art

While your interest in art may not revolve around becoming an artist, there is immense value in exploring your creative side. Here are a few tips to help you embark on your own artistic journey and create compelling art:

1. Embrace Mistakes: Don't be afraid of making mistakes, as they are an integral part of the creative process. Each misstep offers an opportunity for growth and learning, ultimately leading to new insights and unexpected artistic outcomes.

2. Dare to Experiment: Step out of your comfort zone and venture into uncharted artistic territories. Try different techniques, materials, or styles to see what unfolds. Embracing experimentation can open doors to captivating artistic expressions you never thought possible.

3. Be Yourself: Your unique personality is a wellspring of creative potential. Allow your individuality to shine through your art, infusing it with authenticity and personal meaning. By staying true to yourself, you contribute to the diverse tapestry of artistic expressions.

Letting Your Personality Shine Through

To fully appreciate the captivating world of art, embrace uncertainty and venture into unexplored artistic realms. Approach art with a sense of wonder, allowing yourself to be captivated by the journey of discovery. By immersing yourself in the process and embracing your true self, you unlock the secrets of intriguing and meaningful art.

While your interest in art may not center around becoming an artist, the world of art is still a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. The beauty of interesting art lies in its ability to surprise and inspire, transcending the boundaries of artistic ambitions. By exploring the realms of imperfection, embracing honesty, and following a few simple tips, you can embark on a fulfilling artistic journey that enriches your life and expands your horizons. So, dive into the fascinating world of art and let its wonders illuminate your path.

Trailer i used for a Live/ workspace.

Back in the 90’s I was looking for a less expensive place to paint but also something that gave me more room I had decided to rent a trailer in a trailer park. This provided me with a space where I could paint, t spread out more and also paint on a larger scale. I thought it was temporary but seventeen years later I was still in the trailer park - settled right in with all the other oddballs living in the park.

Prior to renting the trailer I had been living in a small apartment on the speedway in Venice California back in the 90’s. It was a great location as the beach was 20 feet away. The speedway was an alley running parallel to the beach and was also part of the bike path. Not only was it an alley but was used as a street. I would take my paintings down to the speedway and pop up a little area to show showing and sell my paintings.

Biographical Narrative Through Art Exhibition

My wife, Lynn Hanson, and I had a concurrent art show at the Santa Paula Art Museum, in Santa Paula, California . Over a 125 pieces of art representing 30 years of work.

The theme of John Robertson’s narrative is creating a biography through art. John Robertson’s biography visual chronicle created with unique, individual pieces representing different aspects of his life. Although some of the work is very personal they do represent universal themes.

Over the years I have created a lot of personal work that has never been shown and few people have even seen many of the individual pieces.  Some of the work was dimensional wall pieces, others were free standing assemblages for pedestals and some are paintings.  Because of the nature of the main gallery it provided a more intimate space to show this kind of personal work.  In one sense it was a hodgepodge of things but it did represent me.  I presented the artwork in the gallery as a biography – but not necessarily a timeline.  It was not a survey of my artwork.  As I said above: it was more a visual biography created with unique, individual pieces representing different aspects of my life.  Although some of the work is very personal they are about universal themes.

My Art Journal, What most people see- What an artist sees

From My Art Journal

One of the things I have notice is that when my wife and I go out almost daily to either the beach or into the foothills for a hike we generally are looking at the same thing. We do draw attention to what each other is seeing. But what is interesting to me is that we can be looking at the same general scene, in the same environment and she will be focused on one aspect of the scene, and I will be seeing something entirely different.

This extends to what each of us may paint from that environment and how we interpret the scene. Her color choices are different. She tends to focus on the wildlife while I tend to paint the vistas. Her work is more representational than mine. I may abstract the scene as I have done with the video you see here.

House of Kanye West with Artist John Robertson art

Kanye West Home for Sale with my art

One of my relatives was browsing around on Instagram came across a couple of my pieces of art on @popculture Instagram page.

Now, I know that Kanye West did not buy those paintings and are not his in the house.

So, how did they get there? First, I sold the two paintings, one of a football player and another one of a guy holding a hawk to a desig9ner in Los Angeles a number of years ago. (The paintings are 4 feet by 8 feet, acrylic on canvas)

It is my understanding that this was a house Kanye West had owned at one time and that it was being put on the real estate market. I am going to assume that a realtor called a staging company or knew a designer or decorator who they hired to come in and stage the home for sale with my paintings in it.

This would not be the first time something like that has happened. I have seen them on television shows and in movies (which, by the way, they are not supposed to use without my permission. That is the way of the world.

Brand Gallery Abstract Art Exhibition

 Painting “Falling Man” created Sept 2001 4 ft x 8 ft acrylic on unstretched canvas.

Abstract Art Show.

My wife and I participated in a group show titled “Abstract Los Angeles: Four Generations”last , July at the Brand Library & Art Center

 Abstract art thrives in Los Angeles - whether minimal, geometric, or material; there is always someone making abstractions. Abstract Los Angeles : Four Generations attempts to document a line of inheritance passing from parent to child, teacher to students, older to younger.

 Assembled by three observers and participants of the Los Angeles art scene: Alain Rogier, Laddie John Dill, and Katie Kirk; Generations invites viewers to explore the continued dialog between artists over a period that spans roughly 80 years.

 Painting “Falling Man” created Sept 2001 4 ft x 8 ft acrylic on unstretched canvas.

Abstract NFT Art

 NFT digitally drawn painting.

There is no object to be painted - only the idea of it.  My Original painted abstract art converted to NFT’s Not AI generated. Get original, signed abstract painting plus NFT hand drawn and manipulated. Collection available on opeansea

 https://opensea.io/collection/abstractexpressionismart  

Abstract NFT Art

Abstract Digital NFT Art

I converted my physical, original, hand painted abstract art into a completely different non-physical abstract NFT painting using a variety of hand drawing and manipulating computer apps. THIS NFT ART IS NOT AI GENERATED. With the purchase of the NFT digital art file you will receive the signed piece of original hand painted abstract art the digital art was created from along with a certificate of authenticity. Visit my nFT Abstract art on my website at: NFT Abstract Art Available through My NFT Art is available at: Abstract Expressionism Art - Collection | OpenSea

Available on opensea website at: Abstract Expressionism Art - Collection | OpenSea

Australian Shepherd Dog Art

Shepard Dog Painting

When I went to photograph this Australian Shepherd for it’s portrait it was about the most friendliest dog I had met. I probably have painted over 60 dog portraits so I have been around a lot of different breeds.  He was out in the backyard and came running up but not in that, “I am going to jump all over you” but in a very sweet and gentle way.  He did the usual smelling around me but not in an intruding way.  He didn’t do any of that poking with his nose.  He just walked around me, smelling.  I do think he smelled our cat’s odor as cats are always rubbing up against pant legs. 

 Another thing he did was what the herding dogs do, is herd me through the back yard.  Any time I moved in any direction he seemed to be guiding me.  And that was certainly noticeable when we walked towards the house.  He would walk by our side then move to the front of us and look back to make sure we were following in the right direction. That Australian Shepherd was a great dog and a great pet for their children. 

Figurative Portrait Luis Tattoo Artist

Tattoo Artist Luis Portrait

Around my studio there is always some interesting people either working in their own spaces or visiting the businesses. Luis is a tattoo artist that works in a store front in front of my studio.. There are a number of other tattoo artists there also - which I have painted. We are in a large area of about 18 light industrial spaces that have big roll up doors although the tattoo studio is an actual storefront.

I have made a habit of trying to paint the different business owners life-size either on paper as big drawings or with black paint on canvas.. I first started painting these people when II had moved in 8 years previously. . It was a way for me to meet the different neighbors . At the time it was a rough corner of the city where we live. Some of the neighbor ‘s spaces were occupied by bikers, a couple of chop shops, a couple of artists, and homeless who found the spaces cheaper to live in than local apartments and better than living on the street.

Green Bay Packer Aaron Rodgers Art

Aaron Rodgers Painting in Stairway Green Bay Wisconsin

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is one of my client’s favorite Green Bay Packers . They have a townhome in Green Bay, Wi and their regular home in another part of the country. As season ticket holders to Lambeau Field they try to make every home game and also travel to a lot of the away games. Obviously they are a big Green Bay Packer’s fans and purchased this painting of Aaron Rodgers.

My understanding is that they have a downstairs area of the their townhouse for watching television. So the Aaron Rodgers art is in the stairway leading down to the viewing room.

Car Art 1996 Ferrari 275 GTS, V12

Automobile Art Ferrari

I have a client who has a unique 1996 Ferrari 275 GTS, V12 and he wanted a painting of the car. So I painted the Ferrari. As he had two homes he couldn’t decide which home the painting should be hung. Not to let an opportunity pass me by I suggested I just paint another one for the other home. We figured out what sizes and what angle would fit best in each location and this photo is a result of the work. He was very pleased - as I was for the commission.

Client Art Green Bay Packers

Acme Packers Painting - Green Bay Packers

The Acme Packers were the name of the Packers when they first joined the American Professional Football Association and was financed by the Acme Packing Corp. who had recently moved from Chicago to Green Bay in 1921. The American Professional Football Association soon became the NFL. Here is a link to a full story about the Acme Packers on the Green Bay Packers site.

I had originally painted this painting for the Lambeau Field stadium’s remodel - but it ended up to large for the spot they eventually wanted to hang it. So I painted the Acme Packers art again - only smaller and fit their location.

A client contacted me for a commission of a painting and I mentioned that I had this version of the Acme Packer available. It fit perfectly into their living room and they purchased it.

NFL Green Bay Packers art in Airport

Green Bay Packers Airport Art

One of my clients was passing through Austin Straubel Airport in Green Bay Wi. and came across a pair of my NFL football Green Bay Packers paintings in Terminal B (Delta) in the Air Host Inc Restaurant. I had not seen them up before.

As some of you may know I did a series of 8 paintings for the NFL Green Bay Packers football stadium, Lambeau Field.  Some of those images are on this blog site.  When the airport terminal did some remodeling they reached out to me for a couple of paintings.  They were obviously familiar with my work from the stadium and wanted to compliment the restaurant in terminal B.

California Map and Florida Map Art

Map Art

This was an interesting commission project for me.  A client had two homes, one in California and the other in Florida.  He hung the California map painting in his Florida home and the Florida map painting in his California home.  Each color pattern and divides in the state map paintings represent the state’s counties.  I originally started putting the names of each county on the map but the image became very busy – so I painted them out.  I like the abstract quality of the way the maps came out

 Being a west coast guy I did not know that there was a Highway 1 that ran along the east coast. I do know that Highway One route along the west coast is one of the prettiest drives you could ever want to take – particularly as you get above San Francisco.   The highway is over 1650 miles from the Mexican to the Canadian boarder and I have driven it a couple of times.  The route extends from the beautiful beaches of Southern California to the lush, green forests into Washington.   And in-between is the astoundingly beautiful country of coastal shorelines and redwood forests.

World Octopus Day Drawing by my wife.

It’s World Octopus Day! My wife, who is a great artist drew this large octopus a number of year’s ago. She had posted it on her Facebook page commigrating World Octopus Day.

This is what she had to say in her post: If you have yet to see the Academy Award winning My Octopus Teacher., get carried away to a very sacred place with this glorious documentary. One of the first of many Giant Pacific Octopus drawings in my old Venice studio: 77” x 120” charcoal on vellum 2010

Cat Art Critic

I had a visitor in my studio yesterday looking at my paintings. The cat turned and with a look of forlorn, I could almost hear it’s thoughts. “There are no MEOW-tains in the paintings.

I have a small room off the main studio where I put up my smaller work.  It is like a miniature gallery, approximately 8 ft by 8 ft and I only used to show this type of work.  The semi abstract landscapes are primarily painted in my studio from memory of the plains and farm fields that are only few miles from where we live.  Although we are in an urban area these fields I see on most days.  Like the beach which is only a couple of blocks away it gives me great opportunity to sample a variety of environments.

I do create plein air art and try to get out once or twice a week into the surrounding areas.  It is like a pilgrimage to escape into the more remote areas and spend the day in quiete solitude painting.