Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Talking with Eadfrith

Nov. 28, 2012
The problem with an "as you go" blog is that you see not just your triumphs, but your areas in need of improvement, a warts and all affair. I decided to add some darker outlining near the top cross which is not successful; it will require judicious use of artists' tape and perhaps the light touch of a blade here and there to correct.What is successful is the overall look of the upper right quadrant with the lettering and pink background which gives a better idea of the final work.

While waiting for Sue today (reminder to readers: Sue = wife) at the doctor's office to get help for her malady, I studied some of the carpet pages from the Lindisfarne Gospels.  It was apparent that artist, Eadfrith, struggled with some of the same problems I do, lines that don't quite meet across the juncture of a knot or open just slightly approaching another crossing point. I felt an odd sense of relief that after 1300 years, culture, tools, and our surroundings have changed but we faced the same artistic challenge.  It was a common element that gave the feeling of communication with a great master across time.


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