El Prado

Each time I stand before the monumental nineteenth century classical paintings in the Prado, something within me is stirred. Rosales said that the purpose of paintings was "[primarily to affect the soul, rather than the intellect]". A statement which he profoundly achieved. The viewer feels in response to his paintings first; then the thinking follows. Before venturing beyond the surface, the painting must make an emotional and spiritual impact.

I visit these paintings frequently and they never cease to inspire me. These artists overcame their own human transience in some way by creating something transcendental. They achieved posterity and gave something to future lives.

Creative Accomplishments this Summer

I'm reaching the end of a beautifully long and drawn out summer. The sun becomes a little softer each day, making way for Autumn. I'm back in England, relishing the thought of staying here for the foreseeable future, whatever that may bring.

I've been working on a collaborative film project with a musician and film maker. We're making some visuals to a piece of music which musically narrates the story of Jonah. We've done some shooting along the Suffolk coastline and working on the edit now. To follow the progress of the film, check out the blog here:

http://jonahfilm.blogspot.co.uk/

It's funny how being home has thrown up a lot of my past creative ideas again. As I've been delving into them more, I've recognised their potential to go further. I've been painting from the old photographs of my ancestors again. It's another prolific time; I'm churning out lots of artwork. Watch this space!