Thanks for the memory
Of things I can’t forget
Journeys on a jet
Our wond’rous week in martinique
And vegas and roulette…

Memorial Day—impetus for our work this week—why not? (I know this day is to honor vets, consider it done, but I’m piggy-backing on the concept. Accept my apologies if this offends anyone.) 

The power of memories in all their romantic recall can be great inspiration.  The challenge this week will be to create a memorial to something or someone lost. 

When my mother died I processed through paint.  Of course the painting is abstract and no one knows the content but me.  But I remember her and honor the intense emotion felt by her loss every time I look at it.  The grief is good in its way of reminding me what it means to be alive. 

As the lyrics to Thanks for the Memory attests, memories/memorials are not necessarily sad or poignant. They also bring smiles.

Just a thought. Perhaps an idea-starter.  But if It’s not ringing any bells, not to worry.

Actually, it seemed time for some play. An end-of-school craft project perhaps.   Texture and metallics, interference colors, leaf, etc.—greeting card materials, etc. to explore. I will break out all that I have, but bring what you have as well.  And consider a dark substrate. Underpaintings are perfect for reflection. Have something to adhere collage in case that crops up.

“Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.”  ~From the television show The Wonder Years

Consider what might be worth holding onto while experimenting with “reflection”.