After several weeks of writing ARTicles for this site, I've been asked more than once, «Shouldn't your writing be more gay since you are writing for the Gay News Bureau?» The question keeps popping up in my mind while I've been painting nonstop for an upcoming show.

I feel that most folks gay or straight, do what they do whether it is writing, painting, cooking, or working their everyday jobs with little thought of their sexual orientation. When I'm scrubbing the bathtub or watering the plants I don't do it in a gay frame of mind.

Does art created by a homosexual make it gay art? At times it might when the subject matter is homoerotic but for the most part it is not. When viewing artwork can one tell whether the artist is gay or straight? Of all the paintings that I've done in the past two years perhaps only one has homoerotic overtones.

The painting is of Icarus and local Nate McPherson of Spexton Jewelry modeled.

Admittedly a straight friend said of the work, «Dude, that painting is oh so gay!»

For me being gay is certainly a part of who I am but is not all that I am. Just being gay and nothing more would set boundaries and create limitations. I want to go about life as a member of society at large participating in experiences without being contained in a «box» so to speak.

For me I am aware of my sexual orientation more acutely when I am defined by others, especially when it involves hateful discrimination that hurts and divides. When on friendly turf I am immersed in the embrace of the community at large and do not feel different in any sense.

Don't get me wrong, I do celebrate my gayness. But I want to celebrate every aspect of my life.

As far as the slant to my ARTicles, perhaps it is merely to inform readers about what is going on in the Eureka Springs' art world, our artists, receptions, and shows.

With a «P.S.» placed here: I could have written more about this subject but it is CRUNCH time for me as I prepare for Saturday's opening of the Pinnacle Hills Promenade Art Festival in Rogers. Hope to see you there!

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