New paintings in the works ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Today Jay Rolfe cut the wood for stretcher frameworks for 3 new 3DSSC (3-D shaped stretched canvas) paintings. It was a beautiful day outside, sunny, breezy, and in the high 70's. I moved my saws and saw horses outside to the driveway and worked near the beautiful crabapple tree in full bloom. It was a glorious afternoon. You can see some completed expressions of Jay Rolfe's unique artistic idea on his website at http://www.3dssc.com/.

Last Wednesday when I was in Washington DC, I went to the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden and the Hirshhorn Museum Sculpture Garden. I love large outdoor sculpture. Both Sculpture Gardens were fantastic. The Hirshhorn had 2 of my favorite Auguste Rodin Sculptures, "Monument To Blazac" and "Burghers of Calais." Both are also in the collection of the Rodin Museum in Philadelphia, the second largest collection of Rodin sculptures in the world after the Rodin Museum in Paris. I also recall seeing "Burghers of Calais" at the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena CA. There were a number of beautiful Henry Moore sculptures. I liked Arnaldo Pomodoro's bronze "Sphere No. 6" at the Hirshhorn. I also liked "Nymph" by Aristide Maillol. I've seen several similar, at the Pushkin Museum in Moscow, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and LACMA.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso.

Music Sunday!

Hello all! Tomorrow means back to work (well for most of you, not me, I'm still on "hiatus!") but my second interview is Tuesday so this may be my last free Sunday for awhile. So I'm thinking on Sundays when families are having picnics and people are going to church and men with big bellies are watching football...well, I'm thinking pics of hot men may not be appropriate. So, how about music videos of the latest and greatest (and I'll try not to play mainstream Beyonce shit!), oh...and hey, if they have hot men in them...oh well...it's still music! Today though, is an animation of a song I love called Young Folks by Peter Bjorn and John. It kind of reminds me of the 80's and yes I am an 80's child (Yaz, DM, Communards, Real Life etc.) alternative, new wave, mod 80's...that was me. Hmm...maybe I'll have an 80's day too. Which reminds me, can someone please tell me how to stream music on my blog? Or maybe stream is not the word, but be able to play music on my blog? Thanks for any help! have a great night! ;-) peace

Jasper Johns ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Jay Rolfe went to the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC on Wednesday to see the Jasper Johns exhibit, "Jasper Johns: An Allegory of Painting, 1955-1965." It closes today. It's wonderful to go mid-week, as there were very few visitors and I could park on the street in front of the National Gallery! The exhibit was ambitious in its exploration of 4 motifs of Johns' first decade, although it didn't include all of his motifs, notably leaving out maps and numbers. It was amazing to see so many variations all in one place, and of course there are others that weren't in the exhibit. I left with a greater appreciation of Jasper Johns as an artist and as an influence on subsequent painting. Here's a link to the National Gallery page on the exhibit. www.nga.gov/exhibitions/johnsinfo.shtm

At the same time, the National Gallery also had a large print exbibit titled "States and Variations: Prints by Jasper Johns." As had the painting exhibit, the print exhibit focused on 4 motifs, albeit different motifs than the painting exhibit. And the time frame was different, starting in 1960 with about 2/3 of the works from the 1960's, with the rest from the 1970's except one from 1982. It was an education. Here'a a link to the National Gallery page on the print exhibit. www.nga.gov/exhibitions/jasperinfo.shtm

You can see some expressions of Jay Rolfe's unique artistic idea on his website at www.3dssc.com. That's the next step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso.

Hirshhorn Museum ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

You can see some expressions of Jay Rolfe's unique artistic idea on his website at www.3dssc.com.

On Wednesday I went to the National Gallery and Sculpture Garden and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. As I related in my post on April 25, 2007, I saw the same light sculpture by Robert Irwin at the Orange County Museum of Art in Newport Beach CA on Friday, and 5 days later at the Hirshhorn Museum in Washington DC, and they looked different because of the intensity of the lighting. Here are photos and links to the two works, first at Orange County and then at the Hirshhorn. The Orange County photo is on the left, and the Hirshhorn photo on the right.

www.ocma.net/index.html?page=highlights&piece=12


http://hirshhorn.si.edu/collection/record.asp?Artist=Robert%20Irwin&OnView=1&ViewMode=&Record=1


I like the one at the Hirshhorn more, as the work recedes or merges more into the background so it's hard to tell what is acrylic disk and what is shadow on the wall (the disk and shadows together make up the work). I hope you can see the difference from the photos.

That's the next step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso.

Hello Everyone...

...my hiatus is coming to an end soon. First of all, my dream to become a bartender may be put on hold. I have a second interview with Intel this coming week, so I was thinking I may have to put bartending school off. I've had a great week, it's almost over and I am sad to say that I will miss being in the sun in the middle of the day! I hope everyone had a great week and an even better weekend! ;-) peace
oh, so um, I feel like being a bit risque...so enjoy! I may make this a "weekend" thing. Let me know what you think.

Annie Leibovitz Exhibit in San Diego ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

You can see some expressions of Jay Rolfe's unique artistic idea on his website at www.3dssc.com.

Jay Rolfe went to the Annie Leibovitz exhibit, "A Photographer's Life, 1990-2005," at the San Diego Museum of Art last Saturday. It was a beautiful day following lots of rain on Friday. My daughter and I started out with automotive art at 7:00 am at the Cars & Coffee Show in Irving CA. Lamborghini Diablo, Ferrari Enzo, Ferrari F430 coupe and spider, Ferrari 355's, Ferrari 308's, Porsche GT3, Ford GT's, classic American fins. Lots of beautiful rolling sculptures. Perhaps the most amazing was the Ferrari F2003-GA Formula 1 race car. It's one of the ones that won Ferrari's 5th straight Constructor's Championship and that Michael Schumacher used to win his 6th Driver's title. Then off to San Diego.

San Diego's museums (aside from the Museum of Contemporary Art) and zoo are all in Balboa Park right next to each other. There was a beautiful Botanical Garden like a small Longwood Gardens. The Timken Museum of Art was a surprise because I hadn't heard of it and it had a good collection of European paintings and Russian icons. There were nice portraits by Veneto, Hals, Maes, Rubens (www.timkenmuseum.org/1-dutch-rubens.html), David, Largillierre, and Copley. The Rembrandt portrait didn't seem up to his usual standard. We saw nice landscapes by Bruegel The Elder, Van Ruisdael, Boucher, Lorrain, Corot, Fragonard, and Innes. I was impressed by religious paintings by Veronese, Christus, and De Witte (www.timkenmuseum.org/1-dutch-witte.html). The gold on the Russian icons, both panels and alterpieces, was dazzling. Here's a link to its website. www.timkenmuseum.org And I've copied the Rubens portrait here on the left.

We finally got to the Leibovitz exhibit at the San Diego Museum of Art. It was huge and well-attended and included celebrity portraits as well as intimate family snaps and a few landscapes. It closed Sunday, so we just made it. I liked many of the portraits, especially Mick Jagger, Cindy Crawford, Nicole Kidman, Uma Thurman, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Brad Pitt. Here's a link to some info. www.sdmart.org/exhibition-annie-leibovitz.html The 3 photos on the right are from the exhibit.

After that we went to Coronado Island beach and Hotel. Then we went back to Newport Beach for dinner with my lovely wife. Later, my wife Randy and I went to a dance party. It was a long and fun day!

That's the next step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso.

High speed rocks!

I just want to say, high speed rocks Twinkies!

I can’t believe I’ve been on dial up all this time. If I only would’ve known the beauty of high speed...ohhh, the possibilities.

Orange County Museum of Art ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

You can see some expressions of Jay Rolfe's unique artistic idea on his website at www.3dssc.com.

I took 5 days of rest and relaxation on the West Coast. One of the things I did on Friday was visit the Orange County Museum of Art in Newport Beach CA. They were showing a huge exhibit, which ended Sunday, of Chuck Close prints titled Chuck Close: Prints, Process and Collaboration. It featured "100 works dating from 1972 to 2002, illustrating the artist’s range of invention in etching, aquatint, lithography, handmade paper, direct gravure, silkscreen, traditional Japanese woodcut, and reduction linocut." There was a great deal of detail about the processes used and many proofs were exhibited showing the process that then combined to make up the finished image. It was quite interesting. As about half of the Chuck Close paintings I've seen have been self-portraits, it was nice to see an image of his wife, the first I've seen. Here's the link to the Chuck Close exhibit, although other than a summary it seems to be under construction now. www.ocma.net/index.html?page=past&show=exhibit&e_id=1473

In the Imaging + Imagining California exhibit, basically a retrospective of 20th century California art, one of the works that impressed me was Robert Irwin's Untitled (#2220) from 1969. It was a 54" in diameter convex circular disk made of white cast acrylic with a silver stripe painted horizontally across it. It is mounted about 2 feet out from the wall and is lit with 4 lights, one high and one low on each side. The effect of the shadows is to make what appears to be 5 (or perhaps 7) overlapping circles on the wall, including the disk. The funny thing is that today I saw the same piece at the Hirshhorn Museum in Washington DC! And it looked different because of the different intensity of the lights! Here's the link. www.ocma.net/index.html?page=highlights&piece=12

There was also an exhibit of titled Dennis Hopper: Billboard Paintings and Photographs. They were nice black and white photos of his actor friends from the early days, as well as some iconic images of LA in those days.

That's the next step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso.

Mo'nique

Ok, I love me some Mo'Nique...big time. I just saw her special "I could have been your been Cellmate" and it was great. She was funny as shit and yet I still cried seeing them women in prison. Check it out, it's worth it...Mo'Nique

;-) peace

I'm kind of on vacation!

So I decided to put bartending school off for a week and just chill this week, it has been great. I am doing nothing, I'm also finding I'm not the type of person to just do nothng, but I am 1 disc away from finishing the second season of Charmed! :-) I've been to the gym, a drive in the hills, casino, a movie etc. I'm getting bored now! lol
hope everyone is doing well! ;-) peace

Summer Fun!

Parents, are your kids tired of reading off "THE LIST?" With summer quickly approaching, would all you tweens like to read something just for fun? And NOT have to take a test when you're finished? I'm not against the accelerated reader list, but, I hear so many complaints about the books that students HAVE to read. How about reading something just for "pure enjoyment?"

Hurry to your favorite bookstore, or order online:

Cynthia's Attic: The Missing Locket and Cynthia's Attic:The Magic Medallion.

Imagine the fun of meeting your twelve-year-old grandmother!

"A fantastic time travel fantasy that middle school children will treasure. The escapades of Gus and Cynthia grip the audience…with humor and trepidation, but always with fun… Readers will appreciate time traveling with this dynamic duo…." –Midwest Book Review

www.marycunninghambooks.com

musical intoxication

This weekend is about Misa Criolla with the exceptional James River Singers, led by Jeff Riehl. I began my musical journey years ago at WCC with Dr. Riehl as my conductor and professor. We have both grown as musicians and performers over the years. His knowledge, skill and presence are worthy of many "notes".
The performance last night was an intoxicating experience for me. I was immersed in an expedition seeking excellence. I attempted to find my "next level" experience by making music with a group of wonderful collaborators. It was a privilege and an honor.

As I sang the role of the "tenor" I loved the call and response interactions with the choir. The beauty of the choral tapestry and the energy of the percussion and strings driving was wonderfully immersive. I loved the stress of entrances and cutoffs and rhythms. Was I right, or not.. how did we handle it? The duple/triple section in the middle of the Credo.. The sustained beauty and line of the Sanctus. The energy, nerves and anticipation leading up to the last note where I would have to "float" that high A. Overall, I was struck by the approachability of the work for the audience. It strikes the balance between reverence and liturgy masterfully.

My world seems Bi-Polar.. the experiences on the stage have so little correlation with my daily experiences at Cap1. The common denominator is me. And yet, there is so much in common if I take the time to look. The pressure to perform, the desire to be respected and revered both by "audience" and "peers". The currency at work is money, the currency of our performance is beauty and elegance/music. Both are achieved by relationships and actions filtered through: Passion, Discipline and Application.

My tools are my music, my family, my community, and my love for my fellow man. My method is constantly changing. My goal is set.

2 Corinthians 10:3-6 (The Message)
The world is unprincipled. It's dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn't fight fair. But we don't live or fight our battles that way—never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren't for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity.

A fun interview

I did a fun interview this week. Check it out at:

http://slayground.livejournal.com/212404.html

One more day...

...I'm not sure if I mentioned but tomorrow I will have no job. This assignment ends on Friday. While I am sad to go because I have made some very nice friends here, I need a break. 7mos. with no time off, I need a few days. So my next move? Bartending School. I mean why not? I have always wanted to try it and I love talking to people and if you get a good gig, the money can be great. So yeah, bartending college here I come. Of course if I don't like it, I can always go back in the office. If you've been regular reader you will see that I really like the blue collar work, last year I was so excited to become a waiter/server and I really enjoyed it! That was back in S. Dakota and I had so much fun! The thing is, well it wasn't as lucrative as I thought. I have champagne tastes but it's hard on a beer budget. So we'll give this a go round and see what comes of it. Hope everyone has had a good week so far and even better rest of the week! Oh this fine specimen of a male...is William Levy, I've posted him before but I found some new pics...good lawd, it's a sin to be that beautiful!! ;-) peace

Envisioning my next paintings ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

You can see some expressions of Jay Rolfe's unique artistic idea on his website at www.3dssc.com.

I did some more yard work today. Our Comcast phones and internet were not working, so I waited for the service tech. He came in the afternoon and fixed everything. Then off for errands, envisioning my next paintings, and then this evening to the Arts Scene for some live music at the Wednesday night Coffee House event.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso.

"Gut" thinking

I just read a really interesting article.. on making decisions based on instinct. Article is here. I do this sort of thing all the time. In musical performances it is required. I think that maybe the risk taking is the part that so many people can't handle. We have created such a critical judging environment in our culture that failure or mistakes are not an option. This stifles innovation, creativity, and removes the mysticism from our daily lives.

In the article the author offers this quote..
"neuroscience shows that there may indeed be such a thing as visceral wisdom."

I don't need neuroscience to tell me that, but it is interesting to have some ability to validate our "make" in science.

For me personally, I believe that the Holy Spirit is a part of every decision and action that I take. I am not always right... but I am right more often than not...

Trusting my gut, is a part of who I am. It isn't a substitute for disciplined, well managed actions and decisions.. but it IS a part of those processes. The bigger question is who gets credit for the visceral wisdom in our gut... I know my answer on that one too.

Proverbs 3:5-12 (The Message)
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this.

In honor of those who lost their lives....

...at Virginia Tech. I pray for all the families and all the victims who were affected by this horrible, horrible event. peace

Studio time ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

You can see some expressions of Jay Rolfe's unique artistic idea on his website at www.3dssc.com.

I did some yard work before the rain came back. It rained quite a bit on Sunday and Monday, about 4 inches, and there was a lot of flooding. My mother-in-law is without electricity since Monday, and was told it would be 4 days until it is restored (because so few people in her area are without power it is low priority to them). Our land line phones by Comcast cable are out, although the cable TV and internet work. And it has been cold the last few days, highs in the mid-40's.

Now I'm off to my studio to paint.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso.

Photographing my paintings ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Jay Rolfe finds he doesn't have proper lights to get a good photo of his paintings. He'll try again when the natural light is better. Maybe part of the problem is the printer, which isn't reproducing the colors accurately. And in my paintings color is very important, so having the printer accurately reproduce the colors is important.

I stretched some canvas earlier, and now I will go paint it.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of Jay Rolfe's unique artistic idea on his website at www.3dssc.com.

Annnd it's Sunday...

...which means tomorrow reality sets in and I'm going back to work! I had a great weekend. My roomies married boyfriends birthday is sometime this month, so she decided to cook for him and his favorite meal? Thanksgiving dinner! So that is what she made, she invited some friends up also. My other friend took off out of town this weekend and offered me the chance to stay at her place (so I can have my space during the whole thanksgiving dinner thing) so I did. It was great, I watched hella DVD's and just being in my own "space" was cool. It was nice and a much needed break. Yesterday I took my mom to lunch and then we picked up my sister, nephew and niece and we all went bowling. Ok, I bought a bowling a ball like a month ago, but I think it's going on Ebay! I lost...to my nephew...who is 10!~~ Granted, he had the "bumpers" up, but still! lol It was a great time had by all and even though my sister (who is a drug addict by the way) seemed to be "on", I still just enjoyed the time I had with her and my niece and nephew. I learned to take the "literal" moments I have with them and enjoy them, not judge, not be mad...just enjoy. It was a breakthrough for me actually and a welcomed one. Today I did nothing but sit in my friends apartment and watch movies, it was great! I don't know how to relax or to just chill, which is weird because I am a laid back person...life wise, but personally...it's difficutlt to just chill. Well I did that today and it was exactly what I needed. Hope everyone had a great weekend! and hope you all have a wonderful week! ;-) peace

Wake

We just got home from our trip to Florida to see Andy and Tara and the kids... On our way back, we stopped over in Atlanta and went to the aquarium. I snapped this photo and really enjoyed the caption. "History is written by those who make the wake." It was on the bench next to two busts of these benefactors of the aquarium.

A Teaser Scene...

Hey there – here’s a teaser scene for The Specialists: Down To The Wire, due out in September of this year.

http://www.shannongreenland.com/down2wire.php

Pink. Dear Mister President...

...ok, I posted this video almost a year ago...it's a great song and with so much truth! Well Scott's site just posted it, it seems he just NOW heard it. That is surprising, on his blog he stated that the radio stations won't play it because of the content. I didn't know that. So I say to all bloggers, post it, post a song that says we are done with the Bush administration! I thought everyone had heard this song...I guess not. So, here it is again, let's not live in a Big Brother society.(this video isn't the one I posted, but it was on Jimmy Kimmel Live the other night) ;-) peace

Pink Performs Dear Mr President
Uploaded by scottorama

My original post, better quality...

Pink - Dear Mr President (traduction FR)
Uploaded by Gateauauchocolat

Was Marcel Duchamp correct? ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Jay Rolfe has been painting today, working on 2 paintings one after the other. I'm going to set those aside - they're not finished - and assemble a painting I finished painting a couple of weeks ago. It's composed of 5 painted stretched canvas panels. It will probably be tomorrow before I can hang it and photograph it.

Yesterday at the Philadelphia Museum of Art I visited several exhibits that interested me aside from the Thomas Chimes exhibit I posted about yesterday. I again looked at the Ellsworth Kelly Exhibit of early paintings. He painted small in those days, and then went big.

I went as always to the Impressionist, Modern, and Contemporary galleries. I really enjoy being in them. I went to the Marcel Duchamp gallery. He did some nice landscapes and portraits before his radical cubist paintings. His "Nude Descending a Staircase" was groundbreaking.

Duchamp was extremely influential with his so-called Readymades. Two of his most famous Readymades, "Bicycle Wheel" from 1916 and "Fountain" from 1917 caused critics, curators, and artists to expand their definition of art. Since then a work is "art" if someone who declares themselves an artist declares the work to be art, even if it is a urinal like "Fountain." Here are photos of them. Was Duchamp right? What do you think? Please post a comment if you'd like.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of Jay Rolfe's unique artistic idea on his website at www.3dssc.com.

It's Hump Day...

...Hump away! I decided to post multiples, so you can just pick and choose, but don't be greedy and do them all now...that's how rumors start! ;-) I'm cooking a pot o beans right now, lima bean and ham, I've been promising the ladies at work I'd bring them beans. Other than that nothing much going on. Me and the friend who wants to be a monk are doing fine...I finally figured out that...if I'm ok, then whatever my friends are going through...I can be there for them. Well, I'm ok. ;-) peace

Philadelphia Museum of Art ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Jay Rolfe visited the Philadelphia Museum of Art today. There was a special exhibit on Thomas Chimes, a Philadelphia artist, titled "Adventures in Pataphysics." Pataphysics is a term invented by Alfred Jarry to describe the science of imaginary solutions in an imaginary world. The exhibit described Chimes as obsessed with Jarry's ideas, and that he has sought to express them in painting for decades. A lot of the paintings were interesting. The crucifixion paintings were colorful and kind of primitive. The white paintings were like fog over faces, and I'm sure very difficult to create. The portraits on medium to dark wood panels were just that, but good portraits. And his metal boxes were very well done.

I may relax this evening with my wife. If so, I'll be busy in the morning.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of my unique artistic idea on my website at www.3dssc.com.

"Stuff" before painting ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Jay Rolfe is about to start today's painting session, so this will be short. I've been busy doing paperwork and going to stores to get supplies this morning and early afternoon. I guess you call it "stuff." And they're all essential things so I can do the painting.


That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of my unique artistic idea on my website at www.3dssc.com.

Happy Monday!

Today was a blah day, really, I didn't feel like being in the office, I didn't feel like being awake I didn't feel like eating. I wanted to lay on the couch and watch DVD's *sigh* but I didn't...I worked.. ;-) (y'all know that's for my IT dept. in case they read this right?) ;-) So me and the friend who wants to be a monk are ok, we talked, he then sent an email saying I wasn't supportive (told you!) I responded by stating I never said I didn't support you! I said I don't think this is a vocational calling and you agreed and said you need to go and see if it is, then I agreed and said yes you need to go to Wisconsin and see if it indeed is. I then brought up that it seems you are looking to be "taken care of" if Bruce puts you out, you also agreed and brought up how your aunt agreed also. Now if that is negative or nonsupporting, well then I apologize...I thought it was a very good conversation actually. In any case he wrote back and said I was right and he over reacted...I'm exhausted. So he says he'll let me know what happens when he gets back from the monastery in Wisconsin he is going to go visit in a few weeks. Other than that, life has been wonderful! I went to my moms and ate like I a heffa! I did a lot of walking today though, so my guilt has been appeased! Hope everyone had a great holiday! ;-) peace

"Goodbye career, hello bliss" ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

In previous posts, Jay Rolfe forgot to mention the title of the article in the Philadelphia Inquirer, "Goodbye career, hello bliss." They really are creative headline writers, although it's also pretty accurate.

Today I've been painting and even went outside and cut some wood to use as a framework for another painting. It was cold, 43 degrees F. It wasn't ideal for working outside, but I finished before I got too cold.

It's been cold all weekend, so yesterday I built a fire in the fireplace and used the last of this winter's firewood. I also painted some yesterday evening after the family left.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of my unique artistic idea on my website at www.3dssc.com.

The Gay Guru is back!

AND he is alive and well and he was sorely missed, you can check out GG here, welcome him back or just say hello nice to meet ya... ;-) peace!

Bigfoot...

...in Lakota it's called Si Tanka, does anybody else believe? I do, I think...I mean I'm open to the possibility, I mean we can't be EVERYWHERE at once right? We may have missed something. I'm watching this show on the History channel now about it, very interesting. Today was a lazy day, I did nothing but watch a movie (Running with Scissors, very good!) and do some laundry, rearrange my room. Nothing exciting. I'm saving my self for tomorrow when I go to my moms for Easter! I am so gonna chow down! She always makes ham, potato salad, yams...mmm...delish! Hope everyone has a great holiday!! Here are some pics that um, well...your foot won't grow but... *evil grin*
;-) peace!

More than a full page in one of the top 5 newspapers, the "Philadelphia Inquirer" ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Jay Rolfe needs to accept the fact that the article on him was more than a full page with 3 color photos in one of the top 5 newspapers in the country, the Philadelphia Inquirer! Wow, I'm excited! Thanks again Art Carey and Jonathan Wilson and your editors!

Today I'm painting. I'm repainting one of my new small ones that wasn't up to my standard. And I've started two new paintings, both round. We'll see how they work out, but I have a good feeling about them.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of my unique artistic idea on my website at www.3dssc.com.

Make

shots, history, things, actions, music, experiences.

I watched my share of March madness this year and the simplicity of the goal, to make the shot set me to thinking about what exactly I make as a musician, minister, manager, father... It isn't nearly as simple as in sports. I know, I know, there is a "shocker".

The word itself is laced with simplicity and confustion all in one. I might say that I make music, but what did I actually create? I interpreted, and added a piece of my soul to some "thing" that existed. If I am improvising, perhaps I add a larger percentage of myself, if I am performing a Schubert song, perhaps a little less me, and more the story and characters.

The inspiration didn't come from me or did it? That is the question we all ask daily.

We each try to "make it" each day, week, month, year. In this context, I am talking about success. I often say: "people don't do things without a reason" and I mean it. I sit here this morning, on vacation wondering... Why do I do the things that I do? For me it isn't about money, but it is often about recognition, and influence and a deep rooted desire to help those around me often at the expense of self. This seems contradictory at every level. Somehow, I help myself by helping others and it sustains me. Maybe that is my "make".

I like the safety of my world. I like the regularity of going to work daily and receiving a paycheck. I desire the accolades of the stage. I want "people" (the more the better) to know that I am "good enough" and that I making a difference in the world. I suspect that I am not so different than most, though I may talk about it more than most.. that is another benefit and flaw of my "make"
----------------------------------------
Isaiah 45 4-12 (NIV)
For the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen, I summon you by name and bestow on you a title of honor, though you do not acknowledge me.I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me, so that from the rising of the sun to the place of its setting men may know there is none besides me. I am the LORD, and there is no other.

I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the LORD, do all these things. "You heavens above, rain down righteousness; let the clouds shower it down. Let the earth open wide, let salvation spring up, let righteousness grow with it; I, the LORD, have created it.

"Woe to him who quarrels with his Maker, to him who is but a potsherd among the potsherds on the ground. Does the clay say to the potter, 'What are you making?' Does your work say,
'He has no hands'?

Woe to him who says to his father, 'What have you begotten?' or to his mother, 'What have you brought to birth?'

"This is what the LORD says— the Holy One of Israel, and its Maker: Concerning things to come, do you question me about my children, or give me orders about the work of my hands?
It is I who made the earth and created mankind upon it. My own hands stretched out the heavens; I marshaled their starry hosts.

"Philadelphia Inquirer" article ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Wow! People have told me that the article in the Philadelphia Inquirer on Jay Rolfe appeared in all the editions, the New Jersey and Philadelphia editions as well as the Pennsylvania suburbs edition! Very cool! Again I'm grateful to and thank feature writer Art Carey and photographer Jonathan Wilson for doing such a great job.

It was March 27, 2006 when I first saw "The Secret." I envisioned great publicity for my art, and less than a year later I was being interviewed for the article that appeared several weeks later on Wednesday April 4, 2007. The power of envisioning and attracting what you want! In case you missed it, here's the link again. www.philly.com/inquirer/local/pa/chester/20070404_Goodbye_career__hello_bliss.html

Oops, I need to repaint part of one of my recent paintings because the paint doesn't look right at some angles in some lights. This is when its either good or bad being a perfectionist, depending on how you look at it.

That's the next step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of my unique artistic idea on my website at www.3dssc.com.

Things people have said to me this week

Sometimes life just sucks.

This too shall pass.

When it rains is pours.

Bad things happen to good people.

I can't deal...

...oh don't get me wrong the world is wonderful still, but I just can't deal sometimes. I try to be a good person, a wonderful person even...but sometimes, let me tell ya, it's difficult. So when I left for South Dakota all my friends were cool, everything was nice and whatnot. I move back, my best friend (who is a girl) now wants to be a man and is taking "T". Another friend (the one I live with) is in a serious relationship with a married man. Ok, she's had one serious relationship...there is no way she can handle this if he plays her. *sigh* and now, my bestest friend, my gayest friend, my oldest friends, my dearest friend who I have known half my life...wants to be a monk. If you were drinking a liquid and just snorted out your nose...it's ok, I did too. There is nothing Monk like about this person, Nooottthhing!! I know the real reason this has come up, I need to call him, I need to respond to his email but I can't. I need to slap him is what I need to do, but he lives in Colorado so that's a bit difficult. I don't know what to say to him, I don't know how to respond, he called last night but I couldn't take the call...I just couldn't answer the phone. It's bugging me, I need to say SOMETHING, I need to give some support...right? Or do I? I mean just because I'm a good friend, can't I say what I want to say? Can't I just let it all out? Well, yes I can...on my blog!! lol lawd, I hope they don't read this...but if they do, they'll know how I truly feel. Girl who wants to be a man, quit, it's cute...but you are always on the latest trend..and this to shall pass. Girl and married man, yes you are in love, he loves you and all is well...but come on now...until he is on his own, you ARE the other woman. Bestest friend...oh friend, reality is what you are scared of, you've been a housewife for 13 years now and now you want to be taken care of again...in a monastery, where you don't have to do anything...or so you think. Yes the rent is free, there is no light bill and you don't have to go to a job, but you do have to work while you are there...and you can't smoke, and all them drugs you on for depression and OCD and whatever else you "think" you have...gotta stop. Then what? Hopefully your mind will be clear and you can join the real world.

I feel better, was that harsh? Was it wrong? Do I care? Seriously, I got my own shit to deal with, it's hard to be there for people with such serious chaos and still try to live my own life. I guarantee you, if anyone of them read this...I will be the asshole, I will be the unsupportive and callous friend...and yet...not one of them...hardly ever asks how I am doing?? hmmm...
;-) peace

sorry I don't even have the strength to find some photos to upload...or answer my phone if any of my other friends call!

Great article in "Philadelphia Inquirer" ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Yesterday there was a great article by Art Carey with photos by Jonathan Wilson about Jay Rolfe and his art in the Philadelphia Inquirer titled "Goodbye Career, Hello Bliss." Here's the link. www.philly.com/inquirer/local/pa/chester/20070404_Goodbye_career__hello_bliss.html

I'm really excited about it. Both feature writer Art Carey and photographer Jonathan Wilson did a superb job. It was a long article with 3 large photos, 2 in color. Then on the Inquirer Express page, the one page summary of the news, the third photo was in color and there was a summary of the article. So I got a lot of coverage.

I spent the day yesterday contacting people about the article, so I didn't get to post. It looks like today will be spent responding to people about the article.

That's the next step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of my unique artistic idea on my website at www.3dssc.com.

Fast & Foolish Fiction Writing Contest

Fast and Foolish Fiction Writing Contest
People are funny...at least most of them think so. Today is April Fool's Day and in honor of all the practical jokes and lies that will be inflicted today, we want you to give us your best humorous story. The only "rule" is that the catalyst for the story must be a lie or practical joke. It can't be that hard, after all you are a brilliant writer who will be paid ONE MILLION DOLLARS if you win...aren't you? Remember, Echelon is all about escaping, so think outside the box and give readers the readers what they want.

Every author at every level should be committed to keeping their name in front of readers. Are you looking for your first publishing credit? Are you between books? Looking for a way to revive characters from books that have been out for a while? Want to introduce new characters for upcoming books? Looking for a way to build your readership? Have we got a promotional opportunity for you!

Echelon Press would like to publish your "Fast and Foolish" April story. The fast part means you have until April 12, 2007 to submit your story of 3000-6000 words. The winner will be notified by April 14, 2007 and have 5 days to edit/revise the story. Echelon Press will publish your story in its e-book division on April 19, 2007. Simple!

Send your submissions as a Word (doc) attachment to contest@echelonpress.com. Your professional cover letter should be in the body of an e-mail. Cover letters that do not adhere to professional standards will disqualify the submission from further consideration. All submissions must include an active author/writer website to be considered. This is your most valuable source of marketing and is a requirement for consideration.

Submissions must adhere to the following guidelines.

Standard Manuscript format

• File saved in Word format (.doc) or (.rtf)
• 8 ½ x 11 page
• Times New Roman 12pt font/black
• 1-inch margin on all sides/ 1.5 line spacing
• Align text left, do not justify (aligning text both left and right)
• Header containing title, author name and page number
• Capital letters at the beginning of sentences and proper nouns
• Show new paragraphs by indenting first line of new paragraph .3. Do not add blank line between paragraphs.
• Show scene breaks with * * * * centered in the appropriate line.

All cover letters must include

• Name (and pseudonym if applicable)
• Mailing address
• Phone number
• E-mail address (if available)
• Web address (if available)

*Winners under 18 years of age must show parent's permission prior to contract.

Previous Winners:

March 2007 -- Janelle Dakota -- Hear the Wind Blow (Fanciful)
February 2007 -- Yvonne Walus -- Small Price to Pay (Frisky)
January 2007 -- Elysabeth Eldering -- The Tulip Kiss (Frigid)
December 2006 -- Dan Strohschien -- The Naughty List (Festive)
November 2006 -- Jamie Summers -- A True Friend (Fatal)
October 2006 -- C.A. Verstraete -- The Witch Tree (Freaky)


Please note that contests posts are made on Echelon Press' website on the designated dates. To get the announcements in a timely manner, please visit www.echelonpress.com/fast.htm

Gay Native Americans...

...just found this site, well actually a friend (JD) did for me..seems cool!
http://www.gay-snag.com/

Two new paintings .. my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Jay Rolfe was interviewed again yesterday evening by the reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer for yet another revision of the article for a different editor. I think all this is good, as it may get the article in front of a larger audience.

This morning I completed 2 paintings I've been working on. They are both variations on the "Yellow Brick Road." It feels good. Now for some deskwork.

That's the next step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of my unique artistic idea on my website at www.3dssc.com.

Happy Monday....

...not that Monday's can be happy, but some can! Ok, so this weekend...hmm..see I'm not sure if I can fully disclose what I did this weekend, but I had fun (and no not like that) but it could have been! :) I went to SF this weekend and had a ball with my friends! Got back like yesterday morning, was tired as hell and spent the day sleeping, eating and watching DVD's it was fun. The most fun I've had since I've been back! I hope everyone has a great work week! ;-) peace

Tires and Pissarro ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Since Jay Rolfe painted all weekend, today he had to do other things, like get tires for his car.

In Sunday's Philadelphia Inquirer, art critic Edward J. Sozanski had a great article/review of an exhibit at the Baltimore Museum of Art titled "Pissarro: Creating the Impressionist Landscape." As I'm fond of Monet's and Renoir's Impressionist landscapes, I think I'll go see what impressed Ed Sozanski.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of my unique artistic idea on my website at www.3dssc.com.

Yardwork versus singing

I think this is one more reason that we should spend more time singing and less time doing yardwork! All those lawnmowers and tractors create greenhouse gases. Unless, I am totally wrong.. singers and other musicians are NOT in any way contributing to global warming. ;) I know it isn't really rational, but it struck me as worthy of a "note". :)

Blue Ridge Writer's Conference

I was a presenter at the Blue Ridge Writer's Conference last Saturday, and had a wonderful time. I did two workshops. One on "Writing Fantasy for the Young and Young At Heart," and one on "The Submissions process in the Children's Market."

One embarrassing moment...the air conditioning was so loud, they couldn't hear me at the back of the room. Someone suggested I use the microphone, which I did, and proceeded to blow everyone out of the building! One of the conference organizers came running from the room next to me to say that I was NOT to use the microphone! They could probably hear me in downtown Blairsville!

Other than that, everything was fine. Terry Kay (To Dance With The White Dog...among many others), was the keynote speaker. He was fabulous! So down to earth, humble, in addition to being a wonderful speaker.

The conference was impeccably run, was in a gorgeous location (Blue Ridge and Blairsville, GA), and the food was great...catered by Mercier's Orchard. I'd recommend it to anyone. We stayed in a wonderful cabin in the mountains. Since it was my husband's birthday, we decided to stay for 3 days, "chilled" in rocking chairs on the screened porch overlooking the mountains, and built a campfire, roasted marshmallows and had s'mores! I think those were the first authentic s'mores I've had since my Girl Scout days!

Our little dog, Molly, had a great time, too...smelling all the great, new scents in the forest. Fortunately, one of those scents did NOT, this time, include a skunk!

More painting ... my journey From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso

Jay Rolfe painted some more yesterday after posting and believing he'd ended painting for the day. Here's a photo.

Today I painted for several hours before going to Common Ground Fellowship with my wife Randy Rolfe. When I came back, I painted some more. Here's another photo.

All these paintings are small versions of my huge 3DSSC paintings.

That's today's step on the journey of Jay Rolfe From Starving Artist To 21st Century Picasso. You can see some expressions of my unique artistic idea on my website at http://www.3dssc.com/.