You weave together so many threads here. That comment about going to Rome as an artist and returning as a wife is so poignant. But you also show the many different paths people were able to carve for themselves (the machete!).
The painting so nicely frames this essay. How interesting to find company with Marcia's daughters now. It is as if you are repainting the portrait you had of your mother as you discover parts of her you hadn't known as her child.
Wow, that painting! One of those artworks that brings domestic realities (children!) and 'mess' and confusion into the centre. It's so alluring, but stifling, to think 'when the conditions are perfect' or 'if I just get over this distraction or obstacle' conditions will be right to make work, or 'I'm making this particular kind of thing so let's edit out everything else.' I'm not interested in that kind of tidiness anymore.
Such a rich portrait of a complex and inspiring woman, Eliza. I absolutely love following you on this journey of discovery and seeing the connections pull you into stories you may never have imagined you'd find.
You weave together so many threads here. That comment about going to Rome as an artist and returning as a wife is so poignant. But you also show the many different paths people were able to carve for themselves (the machete!).
It took me a long time to see how those older women must have impacted her. A realization beyond my memoir..
The painting so nicely frames this essay. How interesting to find company with Marcia's daughters now. It is as if you are repainting the portrait you had of your mother as you discover parts of her you hadn't known as her child.
What a lovely observation. Thank you, Jill.
Wow, that painting! One of those artworks that brings domestic realities (children!) and 'mess' and confusion into the centre. It's so alluring, but stifling, to think 'when the conditions are perfect' or 'if I just get over this distraction or obstacle' conditions will be right to make work, or 'I'm making this particular kind of thing so let's edit out everything else.' I'm not interested in that kind of tidiness anymore.
And the painting is huge! I love it as a kind of declaration. (Especially in 1966.)
Yes! Astonishing.
Wonderful heartfelt writing as usual, Liza! You have such a beautiful talent and insightfulness that staggers the reader!
Thank you, Marjorie
Such a rich portrait of a complex and inspiring woman, Eliza. I absolutely love following you on this journey of discovery and seeing the connections pull you into stories you may never have imagined you'd find.
Thank you, Lindsay. It’s been a wonderful way to learn about other artists and their work who were there all along…
❤️