Stuart J. Gourlay's Comments

Stu, your story is really interesting. I think of how many talented people lose their initial passion when they take on another all-consuming task or profession. You were lucky to have an early start - wise parents to thank for that - and then you were wise enough to make the time to continue with your painting, however sporadically, over the years. I put my pencils down when I left university. I only realise now how much I missed it, and what joy their is in rediscovering this passion. I sense that both my years as a filmmaker will help, as you say, and the wisdom I have gained through age and experience will be seen in the paintings I do now. I pushed myself with a self-portrait a couple of weeks back, and I was amazed at how well it turned out. I only hope I can keep this momentum going, and I am sure that the input from the you and others on this site will help me reach the goals I have set for myself. 

Thanks, Stu, for the welcome. My painting can only get better as I'm still in the very early stages, although I feel I have a lifetime of observational experience to contribute. That's what happens when you set a career in art aside to pursue a career in film. :-) You probably feel the same way about pursuing medicine? Or have you been painting all the years?

I will save some money and participate in one of Richard's Challenges soon. Thanks for your friendship here. I look forward to chatting with you from time to time.

Hi Stu, Congratulations to you, too. I love your paintings and always look out for something from you.  You are always diplomatic and tactful in your helpfulness whether a critique or guidance. I look forward to your friendship.  Gina Dalkin-Davis, Goderich, Ontario Canada

thanks very much Stu!! I've added the links on my photos to the PMP originals so you can find them easily!! I surely appreciate your encouragement!

Hi Stu..the boy in the portrait is from a photo by Ros Amorin on PMP..I added to the tags..when I uploaded I'd forgotten the photographers name & had to go back & research it!

Have you been on paintmyphoto?  Wonderful photos to paint from with permission from the photographers..I'm not much of a photographer so it's been a great source of inspiration for me.

Just got some help yesterday with the marketing. You are so right. BUT it all takes lots of time....

Yes, that would be very cool for you to participate in one of Jennifer's seminars. I often wish more of her caliber artists would post on YouTube so that we could just watch how she goes at it. BUT I guess everyone is more in "the Business" too.

I spent a little time this am, because of being up sooooo early with jetlag, looking at an online gallery out there in CA. What I would love the artists on this blog to know, if they don't know it already, is that many of the paintings are no better than many I see on the blog, and prices on this gallery were out of sight. I was kind of surprised actually. The work that you and Michael are doing esp. surpasses much of what I saw and maybe some of mine do as well. KUDOS! 

Also love the paintings by Jennifer McChristian. I had not seen her work before as far as I know.

Thanks for your kind comments. Very cool that You and Michael were able to paint together. The products were great. Over a year ago I did meet and have lunch with one of the girls that no longer posts. It was fun. I am always amazed with all the painting you are able to do. I look forward to getting at it again after being out of the country for 3 weeks. But have too much on hand now.

My present challenge is an art crawl planned for this weekend. Suddenly, we were informed that we needed some very expensive "event" insurance. Well, if it isn't worked out, we will have to cancel and that makes me sick because of all the work those arts have done for this. Nothing came through today and I will get back on the phone tomorrow. This is the third crawl and the first I had ever head of "event" insurance.

Right now sick about what I am hearing at the Boston Marathon. Heart breaking. "Event" insurance cannot stop this terrible sort of thing.

Always looking forward to everyone's work. Blessings, Deb 

Wow- I love your paintings Stuart! Yes I paint in water mixable oils-I tend to be a messy painter..lol..so cleaning up with water is best for me...also  ..less fumes.I love  with oils,pastels,watercolors,acrylics and charcoal/graphite. Thank you for the friendship and lovely compliments!

Hi Stu.  Regarding the painting:   "Lago Ti Tenno",  posted by Idan Soloman (now a friend). I assume that members post their paintings for a reason .... feed back ..do you think that is correct?  I would like to suggest to Idan that he should concentrate on better shape making...he is obviously a beginner and I think would welcome any suggestions?  What is your thoughts? 

Congratulations Stu

Your painting has the most votes for Workshop14.  You are a great artist. I know how hard you have worked for this recognition.  Be Happy! 

Smiles.........dor:))

Thank you for your encouragement Stu

Do not know how that happened but it can't correct because other's have far more views than mine. smiles to you : ))

Thank you Stu! I look forward to more discussions as well! So nice to meet you:)

Thank you for your encouragement, Stuart.  I've now loaded my photo and my painting, using this latest exercise.  I'm so happy to be part of the "group".

Thank you for the encouraging words Stuart and also your kind comment. I appreciate it very much.