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Is this a good thing…….this “Up Front and Center”?  Where does this take us?  What can be learned from this placement?

If someone is upfront, then does that mean that it is necessary for others to be in the background; and if so, what can be learned by that placement?  In creating this painting “The Youngest Student”, I kept the detail and clarity with the violinist in the front.  He is the focal point. He is exhibiting courage and confidence and responsibility.  By subduing the students in the background, it accentuates the fact that they are comfortable with being in the supportive role at this time.   They are sharing the stage in such a manner as to be mentors to the young student.  They are showing respect for him as he experiences these shining moments.  Are we all comfortable with taking our turn in the various placements in life?  There is a time to shine and there are moments to be supportive…….both equally important.

Colors in a painting are like this.  There are the ‘up front and center’ colors that grab one’s attention and guides you in a direction through the painting to the supporting colors.  And while they are supporting colors, they are necessary.  Without them, there would not be an ‘up front and center’ color / focal point.  It is this circle of support that completes a good painting…….as it does in accentuating a good life.