I find that some of my best work has been produced when I have been melancholic. When I am happy I am not so inclined to make art. It is a brutal world we live in and many things are sent to try us. Empathic, sensitive and creative individuals are less able to forget the abuse of our planet, its ecosystems and people on it. It is hard not to get sad and angry about those who take whatever they want without giving anything back however without being able to do much to change the state of affairs, frustration ensues. I think the artwork which comes from this state of mind is more poignant.
It was once thought that the people of pre-history would only made artwork in times of abundance and peace. However The late Pleistocene Age (about 40,000 years ago) when much of the cave art was produced was a time of grave hardship for the Stone Age cavemen. Most of the earth was covered with glaciers and the sea level was much lower, creating many caves. The caveman’s main job was to gather food for the clan. Back then, it was hunt or be hunted. They chose to paint in caves that were often hard to reach and dark and dangerous. Their art was therefore not just for pleasure but due to some need for expression when times were hard.
This is an image from my sketch book. It depicts my mood at the time.
