Clear Seeing Place

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.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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.

Loved this book!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes it was wonderful!

Which scene was your favorite?

I loved them all!

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No

Any additional comments?

At first I was unsure about listening to a book instead of reading it myself, as well as when would I listen to it? I am a runner and I found that listening to the book while running actually helped me to visualize what was being read to me! Surprisingly I really enjoyed this book! The way that it was written/read gave me a new outlook on some things and a stronger appreciation for others! I could relate to some of the vivid descriptions and the relations to colors that he used. I strongly suggest trying it out!

Full of humor, good advice and thoughtfulness.

Any additional comments?

The author brings you into a setting he created. The world of creativity and how he views it. He has a quick wit, full of humor, inspiration and talent! I like that he shares his wisdom and it’s not just for artists but for everyone alike. Living life for every second you can, and enjoying life. He’s a talented character who is makes you look at things a bit different. Really enjoyed this one! I don’t listen to a lot of books, so it's new(ish) to me, but with a book like this it’s really quite cool. Because you can “hear” the emotions and humor just as you might imagine when you’re reading it. A wonderful addition to my collection for sure!

Not Just for Artists- For Soul Seekers and Introspective Folks Too

I found this novel to be incredibly compelling and thought-provoking. As someone who doesn't consider herself an artist by any means, Rutenberg allowed me to see art from a different perspective from what my norm is. He provides sound advice to current and aspiring artists- information each person can apply immediately to his or her practice. All in all, I found his fiction and inflection calming and inspiring. It's the most genuine narration I've ever found in an audiobook.

For art lovers

This book, well narrated by the author, not only goes over his own experiences and heroes, but how those interact with him and his art.
To me, the most important and interesting parts of this book could be bottled down to rules the author has happened upon and penned for other aspiring artists to follow.
The book is narrated by the author, and his voice and humor are apparent, but it is obvious he takes being an artist very seriously.
I would recommend this to those who need motivation or a push towards their own "locked door."

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.

Art Audiobook

If you could sum up Clear Seeing Place in three words, what would they be?

At first, I was a bit unsure how much I would get out of an audiobook about an artist. I was amazed to see how easily Brian Rutenburg could transport me into his little bubble of the art world. After finishing the first chapter I obviously had to Google some of his work and watch a few of his YouTube videos. Which by the way, the idea of studio visits is an excellent supplement to any artist who is trying to share their craft as well as make their work more well known. As of writing this review there are a total of 59 studio visits each with over a thousand views. Having visited a few of the art museums in NYC, I loved hearing about his art world experience. Brian lets us peek into his personal life, sharing the stories from his childhood, adolescence and early adulthood. He really makes it clear that he got where he is thanks to hard work and a little bit of luck. Overall an interesting “listening”. I think that anyone contemplating becoming an artist, or a lover of art, would appreciate this book.

An audio piece of art about the beauty of painting

Where does Clear Seeing Place rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

This one is unique because of the subject matter at hand. I've read the kindle edition of this book and Brian Rutenberg does a great job of portraying his artwork in written word. What the audio book accomplishes is a fine ability to translate that intimacy in audio form.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Clear Seeing Place?

Hearing Rutenberg's voice perform this audiobook easily portrays the nuisances of "Clear Seeing Place" that may have been missed in the book. I enjoyed hearing his voice emphasize parts of his book that have certain meaning to his art.

What about Brian Rutenberg’s performance did you like?

His passion for his work is more evident hearing him speak t in his own voice. There is a beauty that is easier to comprehend and more vivid to imagine.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I enjoyed his laid back approach to the book. His tone and attitude offered a calming effect while listening to this book on my commutes.

Excellent

There is nothing about this book that I didn't like. I so enjoy Bryan's YouTube videos he makes in his studio. His words in the book are like the paint/icing on the cake/canvas.