Clear Seeing Place

Studio Visits

By: Brian Rutenberg

Narrated by: Brian Rutenberg

Length: 4 hrs and 11 mins

Publisher's Summary

From the salt marshes and moss-draped live oaks of the South Carolina Lowcountry to the New York art world, Clear Seeing Place takes the listener behind the studio door to explore the making of a painter in intimate detail. Brimming with the joy of process and a love of art history, Brian Rutenberg reveals the places, people, and experiences that led to the paintings for which he is well known today. This book is packed with ideas, observations, techniques, and career advice all thoughtfully arranged into six sections designed to inspire artists of all levels, as well as anyone interested in creativity.

Clear Seeing Place is a companion to the artist's popular YouTube series, Brian Rutenberg Studio Visits, and is a love letter to painting written by a painter.

©2016 Brian Rutenberg (P)2017 Brian Rutenberg

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One of my favorite things he said that I jotted down and keep going back to was ‘doing first, thinking second’. As someone who isn’t much of an artist, this seems like a great starting point - just do whatever you feel, and think about what it means after. It’s so easy to get caught up in the process and overthink it, this bit reminded me to just be in the moment and feel it. I loved the quotes between chapters. He’s likeable and funny and doesn’t come across as full of himself at all. It was an enjoyable listen.

Seeing the world as art

Who was your favorite character and why?

The author is the character and love him for his realness.

What about Brian Rutenberg’s performance did you like?

I enjoyed having the author read this to me. I had previously read the book, but it was my voice in my head. I loved hearing Rutenberg tell his story and share his advice in his voice. It lent credibility and a sense of truth.

Any additional comments?

There is a touch of irony in describing a book about the life of an artist as "beautiful", but I can think of no better word to describe it. I truly felt a kindred spirit with the author. While he grew up in the low country of South Carolina, and I grew up in the cold winters of Western NY, I understand his ability to see the world as art. Even as a child, I saw things in words; Rutenberg in colors. The author-artist takes us from South Carolina on his journey to the art world of NYC. Largely introspective, this book gives tips and anecdotes for any would-be artist. I highly recommend this book. If you or someone you know is a painter or any type of artist, this book will offer you an insight and a sense of belonging.

I have always appreciated art museums for the historical and intrinsic value that they offer, but I will look at them with a fresh set of eyes now because painters definitely see things differently.

A Painter's Journey

Any additional comments?

It was interesting hearing Brian speak about his childhood and growth with relation to art. He has a true passion for all things artistic, there’s no denying that fact after listening to this book. Even in his book he paints the pictures of his life through the different experiences.
I found his explanation of bright and dull colors rather interesting. How the two are needed to create the perfect painting. His overall explanation of colors in general, some of his favorite colors combinations as well as his different color palettes. After listening to his book I have a new understanding of colors and everything they say, do, and mean depending on how they are used.
Overall this was an intriguing exploration of a painter’s life and how his life is influenced by everything he does and everyone he meets. After listening to his book I even found his YouTube channel so I could watch some of his paintings. They were as fascinating to watch as it was to listen to his book. I imagine that most painters would find this book educational and enlightening.

Dancing with your heart space

Wanting to embrace myself and dance untethered... to sing on a canvas with my heart, my eyes, and my senses, I knew I needed a river to swim in... This invitation touched my spirt deeply.

The Art Book You’ve Been Looking For

I just finished listening to Clear Seeing Place and immediately started it again. This Is the book I’ve been looking for, a handbook for working artists, chock-full of practical, usable straight-forward wisdom and advice. I felt like I was being personally mentored. Thank you Brian Rutenberg for writing this book.

Just what I needed

Thank you Brian. Even though the book may be self promoting...maybe that is the point. It is just what I needed to hear.

Great book!

Brian Rutenburg is amazing. This book is a compilation of his video essays. If you're an artist looking for a book on how an artist should behave in the real world I think this is it.

Enjoyed very much!

What a great story with funny, helpful insight to the art world and life itself. As an artist, I could laugh with him and feel his pain. Enjoyed this very much!

I Love this book. B.R. is my Hero.

A rare glimpse. A privilege to know this gentleman; Brian Rutenberg. Mr. Rutenberg, has given me permission to be who I never knew I was allowed to be: An Artist. I cannot explain my deep gratitude to him for writing this book. Everyone needs a mentor like him, at least once in a lifetime.

Grateful

Love every word. Every sentence. Every insight shared. Food for my soul. Thank you for taking the time to share your journey!

Enlightening

Loved his clear and no nonsense approach. Wonderful to listen to while painting. Gratitude!