Creative Vision

Cedar Lee November 7th, 2018

Here is the first self portrait I’ve created in 11 years: “Creative Vision.”

Creative Vision. 20" x 20", Oil on Canvas, © 2018 Cedar Lee

It is about being an artist and an agent of purposeful change and action–the process of conceiving new ideas, and initiating the process of actualizing them.

A new idea, inspiration or goal that has formed in my mind is represented by the electric blue orb floating between my outstretched hands. It is rotating, flickering, in constant motion as it forms itself under the complete focus of my eyes.

This orb of creative power puts off a glowing light like a bright candle flame.

Close-up detail: Creative Vision. 20" x 20", Oil on Canvas, © 2018 Cedar Lee

Visualizing what could be is the first step of setting an intention, which is the precursor to any action. It is the way that I get things done, whether I’m thinking of new paintings, or things I want to manifest in other areas of my life.

The abstract pattern in the background is reminiscent of champagne bubbles rising in a glass, negative shapes of light glowing through tree branches, or sparks shooting from the flames of a bonfire into the sky.

“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back– Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth that ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now.”

–William Hutchinson Murray / Goethe

Paintings! , Portraits

Fall

Cedar Lee October 30th, 2018

Here is “Fall.”

Fall. 30″ x 40″, Oil on Wood, © 2018 Cedar Lee

This painting is full of the vibrant red, orange and yellow colors of autumn leaves in the forest.

Detail: Fall. 30″ x 40″, Oil on Wood, © 2018 Cedar Lee

Sunlight bursts through the colorful foliage from the bright sunny sky in the background.

The deep blue in the top left corner serves as a complementary color to the warm oranges, bringing out the full spectrum of warm colors in the fall leaves.

Warm light filters through from the background, permeating the whole space.

There is a high contrast between the bright white sky and the dark tree trunks in the foreground.

The trees viewed from below create a dizzying perspective as they tower into the sky above.

The painting continues around the deep edges of the wood panel.

The design, light and colors work together to bring the glorious feeling of a perfect fall day into a large painting on the wall!

Art by Cedar Lee in living room: Fall. 30″ x 40″, Oil on Wood, © 2018 Cedar Lee

Paintings! , Trees

Mural for Mudbone Grown Unity Farm at Oregon Food Bank

Cedar Lee October 26th, 2018

In June, I worked on a team to help finish a mural in Southeast Portland.

In July, I was added to the Regional Arts & Culture Council’s Muralist Roster.

And now, I’ve finished a beautiful mural for Mudbone Grown Unity Farm at Oregon Food Bank!

I’ve been doing volunteer shifts in the gardens there for a couple years. I very much admire the work of Art and Shantae, the leaders of this urban farm.