Julie Grist: Back in the Studio

When I paint I sometimes get almost as much paint on myself, the floor and the studio, as that which goes on the canvas. I'm the same way when I cook - it's both hands in quick motion, making snap decisions and going for it. I grab paint tubes, switch brushes, knock over the oil medium, drop paint-smattered rags on the floor which becomes it's own canvas. I have to wear overalls and aprons and old clothes because paint seems to find its way everywhere, including my cheeks or forehead, or a stray lock of hair. But alas, it's part of the process.

This small piece, a 14 x 11 oil, is dedicated to messy artists everywhere and is titled "In Process." I painted it alongside other artists virtually, online, with Roofless Painters, a nomadic group of painters based in Los Angeles. Roofless Painters finds fascinating locales to set up and paint - including many unique locations in LA and abroad (I went to Italy with them a couple years back. Divine.) We've also painted in Ojai in the past and I'm sure will be back here again.

Roofless is an inspiring group to join - if you need to jump-start your painting practice, explore a more creative life in looking at and talking about art, or reading a book together. Roofless even has a gallery showing awesome, original, artwork for sale. Once a month we also get together virtually via Zoom and paint together, which warms one's heart and feeds one's canvas.