Know When to Fold 'Em

As the song lyrics state, "Know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em.

I have been working on my series of remarkable, survivor trees, From Just a Seed, for some time now. When I began, I was energized and excited about the prospect of continuing the series. As time progressed, my energy faltered.  While talking with a friend, I told her that when I finally finished the series, I was excited to start something new.

"Kissed, " 9x9 inches, Pastel, © Lynn Goldstein

It takes a good friend to point out when we are off course. She asked why I had this arbitrary number of paintings that had to be completed. Maybe the series was done now. I can be a little bit stubborn. It took 5 hours for me to realize how right she was. 

As a result of her wise words, I put away the series and completed 5 paintings pronto.


I am not finished painting magnificent trees, but I am thrilled to be moving in another direction.

Why am I writing this? Because my work is all about helping people feel peaceful in a hectic world. If I don't experience harmony while working, negative emotions will likely show in the art that I produce. "Folding" on the series was a way to return to a calm space while making my art. I am hoping that will translate to others.

"Triumvirate, " 12 x 9 inches, Pastel ©Lynn Goldstein

So, have you have ever "given up" on something that wasn't working for you? How did that turn out? Let me know in the comments below.
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"Water Meets Land," 9 x 12 inches, Pastel © Lynn Goldstein