CELEBRATING A CONTINUUM

My Covenant with Time

A Letter to Art Lovers – December2023/January 2024

As we stand on the cusp of another year, it’s natural to ponder the nature of time and its significance in our journey as artists, although the same questions arise for all of us, artists and non-artists alike.  

The notion of time has often been debated, its elusive nature inviting contemplation or evasion: “it’s just another year, nothing changes, let’s eat”.

Although some believe time to be a linear progression, a series of moments ticking away, others – like myself – perceive it as an expansive continuum where past, present and future coalesce.

For us, artists and creators seeking growth, confidence and originality, this perception of time holds true.  Our experiences, emotions and visions do not have a stopgap on December 31st at midnight, coming alive and different, better, stronger – or different in any way – on January 1st.  For us time is a continuum.  Or perhaps I should say, more accurately, for me.  

Growth as a person and as an artist has a timeless progression, i.e., time is a constant companion, impersonal, beyond calendars and clocks.  Our work is the clock testifying to our evolution.  Our art is a reflection not only of our skills but also of our inner metamorphosis through impersonal time.

Salvador Dali – The Passing of Time

                                                     

Many of us, artists, struggle with the confidence needed to express our own voice and originality.  Embracing the continuum allows us to understand that every moment holds significance, and that alone nourishes and nurtures our confidence in our journey. The mistakes, the triumphs, the uncertainties – they all contribute to the fabric of our creative identity and personality and they are all intertwined with the passing of time.

Originality and the expression of our unique voice emerges from a collage of experiences, inspirations and interpretations of reality.  In these realms, time is a continuum as the search for our Self on the canvas does not follow a calendar but rides on the universal, timeless waves of the Universe.  As such, time is an ally.  Let us allow its fluidity to inspire and guide us, liberate us to explore the boundless possibilities of our creativity.

MY COVENANT WITH TIME

Bela Fidel – Covenant – Oils – 20″ x 20″

                                                   

In Covenant, the shapes are interconnected, related, supporting each other.  Lines and shapes lead the eye around the painting, not letting us leave the canvas, distracted.  There’s a feeling of strength and deep connection in this painting, much emotion (dare I say love?)  and optimism.

With which I leave you for now.  Wishing you a beautiful continuum or a New Year – however you see it – with peace, health, prosperity.  Thank you for your support by reading this Letter to Art Lovers month after month. 

 If you have any questions about my work in general, feel free to contact me at bela@fidelabstractoils.com or belafidel@gmail.com.  My website is https://fidelabstractoils.com.

Talk soon.