EXPRESS

I went and visited this painting the other day. It's called "Express" and is by a guy named Robert Rauschenberg if you've never seen it. It's at the Thyssen museum here in Madrid. It's what I was standing in front of when I got my "big idea" and also inspired me to dive more deeply into my visual art in addition to music.

It's one of those paintings that stands out. It's the last thing you see at this museum before they send you through the exit and into the shop. Three floors of priceless paintings by almost every important name in art for the past 700 years, and THIS is what they leave you with. That's saying a lot. I forgot how impressive it is to actually stand in front of it. I bought a little postcard of the image to take with me last time as inspiration. But I was blown away when I walked back into the room.

It's been really freeing to open up the restrictions I'd put on myself as a musician for so long. I was like a caveman.... "I....AM...MUSICIAN....I.....SING...SONG...FOR....YOU", while I scratched myself, jumping up and down, passionately grunting.

My life feels more natural now. I feel more honest with myself and you. I worked a lot this week. When I go to that place, it can be difficult. It's like the world ceases to spin on its axis. Sleeping is wrestless at best and even a stroll about the neighborhood doesn't really register. I'm exhausted. I think it's time for another mini road trip. Granada. I've been told it's a "must see" for me. I'm in.