I recently spent some time in Pheonix on my own.  For an artist; it's a dream come true. Time to think, sketch (play) and paint.  The first few days; I had so many ideas swirling around in my head I ended up with 'painters block'.  Somehow I found my way and got down to work.  I wanted to create something to coincide with the Alberta Ballet's 'Love Lies Bleeding' featuring music by Elton John. An unforgettable story of rock ‘n’ roll, drama, passion, defeat — and above all — love.  The 1970's hit 'Rocket Man' has always been a favorite of mine.  I first attempted an abstract expression of the song; but after a day or two decided to change my focus and thought of a photo I had of my son sitting high above the Phoenix skyline in South Mountain Park.  For me it struck a cord. The songs lyric's spoke of a broken heart and love lost so I painted the figure of a young man from the 1970's lost in space;  broken hearted (did you spot the broken heart); and alone.  I hope when you look at this painting you can hear Elton John's lyrics:

It's lonely out in space
On such a timeless flight
 
And I think it's gonna be a long long time
 Till touch down brings me round again to find
 I'm not the man they think I am at home
 Oh no no no I'm a rocket man
 Rocket man burning out his fuse up here alone.....

I worked on FOUR painting that week; so I'll post another one tomorrow.  Comments welcomed.

See more of Sheila Schaetzle Art on my website