Milestones along the way. A Midsummer update from the studio hermit
As many of you may know, I’ve been spending the last few years focusing on ghosts and other beings from the spirit world. It has been an eye opening project, literally, as I dig ever deeper into the mysterious realm of shadows and paranormal phenomena. This project chronicles me as an artist totally letting go– with fearless intent and curious examination. It embraces the idea of the automatic function as part of the creative repertoire. There is some pre-planning, but many of the paintings have been directed by the raw energy of the unfettered psyche. It is unbelievably liberating and reflects the essence of my creative energy.
Ghosts & Spirits Tarot manuscript
Ghosts & Spirits Tarot image gallery
I just finished the manuscript along with a gallery of images. I have about 25 paintings left to do, having relegated some of the most challenging pieces until the time felt right. I honestly believe you cannot force art, it must surface when it’s ready. This is how I’ve executed this body of work. The ghosts and spirits summon me to paint when they are good and ready to manifest onto the paper.
Here’s an example of a piece that took on a life of its own. The colors, the roots, the details were primarily improvised as I went. During these more spontaneous sessions, hidden creatures make themselves known by peeping through bark, trees, rocks, skies and wherever they choose to appear.
King of Pentacles - Ankou (finished painting)
Another milestone has been the completion of 46 custom soul drawing orders. I began offering them during the 2009 holiday season, and they took off from there. I didn’t expect such an outpouring of enthusiasm (and orders!). I finally had to shut down the custom drawing shop for the summer so that I could focus on completing Ghosts & Spirits Tarot. I loved creating these works and the recipients of the drawings were gracious, grateful and downright sweet. I felt I formed an actual bond with many of my custom drawing customers (many who are now friends on facebook and people I have frequent exchanges with) — as they were extensions of the soul based on keywords that they provided for me. These drawings helped me to grow as an artist in many unexpected ways and helped me connect with those who appreciate my work. Symbiosis at its best!
Thank you to everyone who ordered a drawing from me. I plan to reopen the shop for pre-holiday orders in October.
Other things coming up:
- Late summer Newsletter containing special offers and a giveaway
- Revamped website store
- Possible Etsy shop
- And a Ghosts & Spirits Tarot website!
Oh, and for those of you who have been wondering, the piano playing is going great. I’m working on Meditation for Thais by Massenet. I’ve learned the piece, now to fine tune and bring it to mellifluous perfection. I may post a video on youtube of my playing when I feel ready to “perform”.
Lisa practicing Massenet, Meditation from Thais
I hope everyone is having a fabulous summer!
~ Lisa
I just want to say that I love your art and this creation of the Ghosts and Spirits Tarot. I also wanted to know when will it be in stores?
Thank you so much, Kerry and Bonnie. I appreciate your support. It has been fun to share my process, though I do need to practice piano more. haha.
Thank you for sharing a bit of this with us. It truly makes me appreciate finely crafted tarot decks (like your Fairy Tale tarot!) even more when I see the dedication and hard work put into it.
Lisa -
Your ghost and paranormal work is phenomenal! I cannot wait to see this come out in print!
The drawings that you did are amazing – for me, they captured the essence of the individuals they were for. I do so look forward to ordering again this year.
I do hope that you post a video of your piano playing. The muse takes many forms – I know that what we hear will be magickal!
Blessings,
Bonnie