Creative Vision

By Artbycedar

Here is the first self portrait I’ve created in 11 years: “Creative Vision.”

Creative Vision. 20″ x 20″, Oil on Canvas, © 2018 Cedar Lee

It is about being an artist and an agent of purposeful change and action–the process of conceiving new ideas, and initiating the process of actualizing them.

Creative Vision. 20″ x 20″, Oil on Canvas, © 2018 Cedar Lee

A new idea, inspiration or goal that has formed in my mind is represented by the electric blue orb floating between my outstretched hands. It is rotating, flickering, in constant motion as it forms itself under the complete focus of my eyes.

Creative Vision. 20″ x 20″, Oil on Canvas, © 2018 Cedar Lee

This orb of creative power puts off a glowing light like a bright candle flame.

Close-up detail: Creative Vision. 20″ x 20″, Oil on Canvas, © 2018 Cedar Lee

Visualizing what could be is the first step of setting an intention, which is the precursor to any action. It is the way that I get things done, whether I’m thinking of new paintings, or things I want to manifest in other areas of my life.

Close-up detail: Creative Vision. 20″ x 20″, Oil on Canvas, © 2018 Cedar Lee

The abstract pattern in the background is reminiscent of champagne bubbles rising in a glass, negative shapes of light glowing through tree branches, or sparks shooting from the flames of a bonfire into the sky.

Close-up detail: Creative Vision. 20″ x 20″, Oil on Canvas, © 2018 Cedar Lee

“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back– Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth that ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now.”

–William Hutchinson Murray / Goethe