I rush through life. Until recently, I rushed through paintings. Sometimes it worked out okay. I find that slowing down helps me really see my own work, sort of like being outside. And I’ve started teaching Tai Chi for Arthritis, a very gentle and SLOW exercise program. The class meets in the gym where I have my studio, so as soon as the students leave, I get to work. This blossom is from a Mountain Magnolia, which the locals call a cucumber tree. I worked diligently to abstract this flora, and the more I did, the livlier it looks. Now the painting sits for another period of time, but I’m moving in the right direction. I’m over the fear of ruining it. It’s my painting, not a living plant.