Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Sue Grilli

Well perhaps if you want to consider that I have 3 children in their 30’s, 2 grandsons and I’m working on developing a second career, then I guess you could say my world is “ blooming” a little late.
I have always been creative. The smell of a new box of crayons makes the neurons in my brain tingle and I just want to color all over the page. I actually studied art in college but then made other choices and life began to get in the way. I was busy raising a family where there really wasn’t time to dedicate to fine art work. I did fun creative projects with the kids and on my own but nothing I would consider fine art.

Then as all parents come to find, the nest was empty and I longed for a deeper connection to my creative ties. I began taking some painting classes and workshops and I loved that one night a week was mine to go and be creative. Watercolor was my weapon of choice and still is for that matter. And boy was it exciting to watch that paint and water mingle together on the paper creating vibrant new colors and patterns, even though it didn’t always do what I wanted it to do. I studied with some great teachers and absorbed all that I could. I joined local art organizations and became involved in the art community. I would suggest this to any new artist out there. These groups are a wonderful resource and I have made true friendships along the way.

As I continued painting and during my travels I noticed that I had been taking many photos of doorways and architecture. The doorways were intriguing to me. Each one interesting in their own way. Homeowners coming and going through those doors, year after year, oh! the stories that could be told.  I started incorporating these doorways into my artwork and as I painted I imagined a story behind each one. Friends and family would send me photos of doorways they would find on their trips or ask to have their special home painted. That’s when I realized I could expand this love of architecture, homes and doorways and share it with others

Every doorway has a story… what’s your story?



28 comments:

  1. Wow! Good for you! I too am a late bloomer and am thrilled for you. What a wonderful blog.
    Christy
    www.chartmandesigns.blogspot.com

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    1. Christy, thanks so much for your kind comment! I was so happy to be part of this wonderful group of creative souls.

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  2. Sue, welcome to the late bloomer crowd! I love how you said that you are just getting your stride...very well put. I'm looking forward to your posts coming to my inbox. Your blog/website is fabulous.

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    1. Hi Deborah, thanks for welcoming me!! This is a great group, love it.

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  3. It's so lovely to see you here Sue. I loved getting to know your story a bit better. I have appreciated so much being able to see all the art you are creating, it's all so lovely.

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    1. Suzanne, you are always so gracious! Thanks for all of your support

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  4. Wonderful! Late bloomers rock. I've lived my life being a late bloomer. Good for you and congratulations on such beautiful artwork. :o)

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    1. Maybe it's more like Rock and Roll, ha! Thanks so much for stopping by Alisa.

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  5. Fabulous! I love the idea "every doorway has a story!" And Sue is such an amazing artist <3

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    1. Awww, thanks Kristen!! I'm always wondering about the stories in our lives, so glad you enjoyed the post!

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  6. Hey Sue! Just what I've always wanted to do... paint some of my photos - your art is beautiful! "Late Blooming" comes with wisdom. My church pastor said earlier this year "wisdom is gained over time". (On this comment I was very thankful, haha.) So, in my humble opinion, putting our heart and words and talents into place while we are aging gracefully is perfectly timed, not just for us, but for the joy to others as well. Congrats!
    Suzanne Fernald

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    1. Hi Suzanne, your pastor sounds very wise. I have truly enjoyed my time painting as I've "matured". Hopefully my work will mature as well. Thanks for visiting

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  7. Wonderful story Sue. Such an encouragememt to those of us who are blooming later in life. I am inspired by your work and look forward to seeing more of your art and hearing more of your story. xx Joanne

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    1. Joanne, so happy to send some inspiration out there to others, thanks sooo much for stopping by!!

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  8. Beautiful doorways--I too am enamored over them (and windows) although I rarely use them in my art. Such possibility, opportunities! It's a great subject matter, especially when the doorways map a personal history from travels and outings.

    Lovely website and welcome to the Late Bloomers!
    Best, Erin

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    1. Thanks Erin, I'm thrilled to be part of this wonderful group! So glad you enjoyed the doorways!!

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  9. Ooooo I love those doorways! I have a bit of a preoccupation with doorways myself. Some of the prettiest flowers are late bloomers! It's nice to think that it is never to late to bloom.

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    1. Petrea, oooh we will have to share some doorway photos!! Thank you so much for visiting!

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  10. Late bloomers rock! There is always time to change the path your on, but I think it is more about making your path the way you want it as experience is gained. Your work is beautiful and I love the red/yellow door way. It is obvious that you are meant to paint. Julie

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  11. Your paintings are so pretty - there is something about doorways. Isn't it exciting to know that there is always more to keep learning in life!

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    1. Ah yes, Robyn, I feel like I'm learning something new everyday. Thanks so much for your kind comments

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  12. So nice to see you sharing here! I love your story and your work is beautiful.

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    1. Michele, it's always nice to hear from you!! Thanks for all of your support

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  13. Doorways and windows, things I'm always taking photos of. What is it about them? Ah, the unknown threshold...that must be it.

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    1. Susan, I'm not sure either but I love them!! Thanks for visiting!

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  14. Thank you so much for sharing your story!! Your work is absolutely beautiful and I find your doorways to be so very magical!!!!

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  15. I love doorways too. I like to consider myself like fine wine - I just get better as I get older! :)

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