Anonymous Artist #100convos #8

A different type of conversation, basically with a stranger, about a month ago, late at night, over Whatsapp. He asked to remain anonymous, so I won't explain. The conversation haunted me in its strange beauty and was actually part of my inspiration to start this project. I tracked him down over the last two days, and he said that I could go ahead with this post.

Me: Tell me something deep

Anon Artist: About myself?

Me: Anything

Anon Artist: Hmmm..I suffered from terrible night terrors as a child and got out of them by turning to art...and became a professional artist. :)

Me: Wow! Love it

Anon Artist: Turning a negative into a positive!

Me: Its inspiring

Today I asked Anon for an additional statement on the subject and he obliged.

"Being an artist is an incredibly rewarding experience. Despite all I've seen and heard in my life I wouldn't change any of it if it changed my art."

An Artist #100convos #2

I met Eugenia about a year ago, through my boyfriend at the time. Self professed social butterfly, whiskey connoisseur and artist. Rarely seen without a glass of champagne in hand, a familiar face at both Bascule and The One & Only. Rumour has it she grew up in a castle in Scotland. Eugenia is a force unto her own.

Over a lazy lunch at Tashas, we caught up on gossip as Eugenia has been away for a few months. Eugenia draws people to her with her magnetic personality, and as a result has many adventures - never a dull moment around this vivacious lady. She remains very down to earth, imparting her life manta "We're all fighting battles that none of us know about, always be kind."

As a "topic" for this blog, I asked her why she paints, she replied without missing a beat.

"Because that's what I was born to do. When someone asked who I am, I say I'm an artist, without even thinking about it. And I think its important to be generous with your talents."

She went on to explain how we are all blessed with talents; that many artists create to gain money and fame . Eugenia honestly just loves to paint and aims to share her talents. She wants to make art accessible. She is involved with charities associate with animals and children. Her eyes sparkle when she speaks of an upcoming gala in aid of lions. Last year's gala, for rhinos, saw two of her works auctioned off. In her own words, "To be able to make money for the rhino's - as an animal lover its brilliant."

The Concept Of Truth #100convos #1

I've known Alastair for years through business. Like all good business relationships, an easy friendship has sprung up and I really enjoy a good chat with this gent. As an artist and hands-on-country-gentleman, he's had a lot of adventures.

Over coffee at Truth (ironic given the topic), I asked Alastair to tell me something true - this sparked a conversation on truth and its validity.

His opening statement was, "It is a wise man who can tell the truth." Going on he explained, "To tell the truth all the time you have to be very clever. We get so swayed by other people's opinions. Everyone has their own idea of the truth."

"Is it actually 10 'o clock? It's not 10 'o clock everywhere in the world - it's objective."

This sparked further discussion on truth versus honesty. Truth is relative but honesty is absolute.

I will leave you with that thought.