Artists tread a fine line when it comes to survival and integrity. We are constantly at the mercy of the unconscious critics that are the prospective clients who support our creative endeavors. Painting to market is always a danger instead of being inventive it is sometimes more financially comfortable to follow the crowd. It becomes very difficult to stand-alone.

   The line on the left is symbolic of the painting to market attitude that just about all artists at one time or another in their career have had to conform to. Money is represented by the green paint, which is beginning to rust off the pipe as the pipe returns to its natural elements through oxidization. We are not supporting anything of real value when we paint only to make money.

    On the right hand side is the line that has snapped and is in the process of breaking away while at the same time tying a knot, which is a symbol of taking a creative stand separate from the straight boring lines of conformity. This position is taken at the risk of falling through the sky to some unknown fate. I have a great respect for those individuals who celebrate their individuality by being themselves; nothing new ever comes from conformity.