The Aspiring Crackpot

As I’m sure you’ve noticed, things are a little different around here. I’ve redesigned my site to be a showcase of my painting and illustration. Since Gallery2 is such a b*tch to migrate from one server to another, I decided to simply reinstall the whole thing.

www.duanemathes.com is the fruit of my labor. Please check it out at your convinience.

You might be wondering: why go through all this effort? The answer is simple: I’m damn near 30. As such, I realize that, being almost an old man,  I’ve got about one more shot to really follow my dreams. Of course, those dreams have fishtailed a bit as I’ve grown up, butI’m pretty sure I know what I want. I’m an awesome artist. I want to do awesome art.

The plan is, tentatively, to return to America and focus hard on creating great, sellable fine art, perhaps Alaskan art, moose, salmon, bear, etc. ala Bev Doolittle. I love that style of work, and i think I could be really good at it.

In any case, if this plan moves forward, I will be joining with the masonic lodge up in Alaska, so that should be interesting. Does anyone know what tests I’d have to go through to do that? In my lodge, we’re only required to memorize the obligation and the grip sequence. I know there is a LOT more, do other lodges require this? If so, I’d better get studying!!

I just got informed last night that this month I’m going to be installed Junior Warden in Sun Moon Lodge #13! It’s really awesome to be recognized for working hard, memorizing the staircase lecture (no small task), and volunteering for everything I can. I really appreciate the brothers for their trust. Word on the wire is I’m slotted for Master of the lodge next year. What a huge responsibility!

The Master of our lodge obviously thinks I’m the right choice, I hope I can live up to his expectations. One of our brothers told me that our Master thinks I’m special (yeah, I ride the short bus) and wants me to be on my way at a younger age so I can do more good when I am older.

I know that I will have to attend many functions, travel to other lodges in SE Asia, and for the most part “be on my best behavior.” Hopefully I can make the grade! I’m a little nervous, but I’m sure I’ll get over it. Hell, it’s a year away! The question is, can my liver handle it?

Does anyone reading this have any experience becoming master of a lodge, perhaps at a young age? (I’m 28) I would love to hear some experiences and advice from you, please comment!