In a pandemic like this one, with excruciating symptoms, a high probability of asymptomatic transmission, and many vulnerable people at risk, there is only one reasonable approach: limit contact to slow down the spread until we get better data on how to handle it, eventually finding a vaccine or effective treatment. Until then, self isolation is both our best bet, and the kindest thing we can do for others.

Quarantines are not easy. Some of us can work at home; others must go to work to keep essential services running. Many of us can do neither, and must sit with ourselves at home, alone or with few others. Maybe we go stir-crazy; maybe this is introverts' bliss.

This series started with one painting. I decided to do a doodle with no plan. I started with a blank panel & scribbled paint until something looked like something (how's that for a specific goal!) and then went from there. Somehow I ended up with a coherent painting.

The next day I tried it again. And the next. Then it became a series. The idea is to be able to step out of the way & let the images come through me rather than from me. I'll be working on remaining unattached to any specific outcomes, especially giving up the idea that they have to be good each time. That's the hardest part; I gotta get used to the idea that some of them may suck.

Inspiration for this project comes from a book called Effortless Mastery by Kenny Werner, and from discussions & webinars with Bill Marsh, a local guitar luminary and coach, from whom I got the recommendation.