The Culture that has been here all the time

I have one big secret for life as we age: use it or you lose it. OK, it isn't original. Joints that work together as I play guitar are working better since I practice each day. Singing voice has regained some range. My worn hip is even bothering me less because I cut the lawn (careful not to overdo it). My senses are good as I pet my cat and dog several times a day. A neighbor I did not know well, and I have conversations with now, and her husband, too, squeak me into socializing a minuscule bit. I compensate for a rusty drawing hand with old artists' tricks. Most of all, I use my brain for all of the above, plus a chess lesson every day and a theoretical physics video every day.  My favorites include Feynman because he is so eloquent to understand. One big fear.

My greatest fear is that as the hourglass dribbles grains of sand, the longer I lack a lover, the more sensuality and sexuality evaporate. I believe I can only go so long without a muse before I disappear from life.

The "Seven Grandfathers seem mute on the subject. Image borrowed from Google search.

Dearest Muse,

I, for now, must love you in my imagination. You are with me when I rise and have my morning coffee, let the dog out in the backyard, and feed my cat. Together we survey the calendar and plan our day. We see which chores must be accomplished and whether we have any appointments.

Without warning, you put your arms around me and say, "I love you." I pause and say, "I love you more." We laugh together.

We are grateful and happy to have another day together.

Maybe we'll shop for some fresh food or take a ride through the hills, forest, and farms. We will stop occasionally to talk to animals close enough to the road.

I hold you in my heart and cherish you wherever you are at this very moment.

Love

Andron (image pixabay)

I cast out my net and thought I would find a kinky artistic muse. I keep tossing the net out, but it returns empty. I think I must find the right crystals, incense, and chants to bring her to me. Any suggestions on which of these to choose?

I updated my Morning Post. Now, I am one step closer to being a working artist once more. I have my business cards and am about to start a website, but what I need most is a companion muse who is also an artist, so we can encourage one another.

We All Should Know Ourselves:

"Know thyself" (gnothi seauton) is an ancient Greek aphorism, famously inscribed at the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, urging individuals to understand their limitations, motivations, and true nature. It signifies the importance of internal reflection over surface observation, encompassing self-examination of passions, weaknesses, and recognizing oneself as a mortal rather than a god.

I was lost for about eight years to myself because I devoted all my focus and energy to caring for my wife during her cognitive decline. Now, on a storm-tossed sea, seeking refuge, I suddenly discover the answer has been within me all along. The shore I landed on was where I thrive creatively. I am back where I know how to live. I have immersed myself in my creative artwork.

Whether it was a song or a painting, I became one with the endeavour. The beautiful thing about this? My late wife knew it was my happy place.

Instead of sadness, I feel inspired. Like many artists, I have periods: some produce fine work, some fail, but I always learn from the effort.

Now? I suddenly realise Edward Hopper's work speaks volumes to me; maybe I will emulate his work, and it will become my "Edward Hopper" period.

I long for a muse more knowing that he had a longtime companion who helped him defeat his demons. Whether alone or with a companion, I shall venture forth. My little house is rapidly becoming my artist's studio LOL.

Hotel-by-a-Railroad-Edward-Hopper-1952

Public domain photograph of hotel lobby, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

If we met and felt drawn to each other, we could build a strong, lasting love that would weather any storm. Why? Because I have lived in many loves and endured many storms. I am not afraid of love; it is the best part of living a human being can have: The experience of deep love and commitment.

Reading the story of some famous artists who had a companion or a spouse as a muse is encouraging: a worthy goal for me. Since posting about painting the figures of women, I have learned there are at least two sources of photos of models that have already been cleared for use. These will serve as teaching tools but will not replace a woman who will be my companion and muse.

Voicing my desire to resume my painting and expand my subject matter to include nudes has resulted in several women contacting me, expressing their willingness to be my model and muse, none of whom are near enough to meet in person so far.

I would like a woman to model for my nudes to be a muse and inspire me at all levels, but in lieu of my finding one, the going rate for an art model in this State is $15 - $50 per hour, with a minimum of two hours paid even for less time. I have blank model release forms and all the art materials I need. I only lack a model. pixabay image