Blues Music and Seascapes: Finding Calm in Chaos

Open Sky, Blue Water 36 x 48 oil/canvas by Casey Chalem Anderson

In these confusing and frustrating times, finding emotional balance can feel like a never-ending quest. For me art has always been a refuge—a way to feel deeply, express freely, and heal quietly. Lately, I’ve been thinking about the power of the blues in music and the beauty of color.

Why do “the blues,” with all their melancholy, feel so good? The soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics help us process complex emotions, giving us permission to feel sadness, nostalgia, or longing in a safe space. It’s a catharsis—a way to let go and feel understood, all while the music gently uplifts us.

Pair some BB King (like The Thrill is Gone) for example, with the calming influence of color, and you have a formula for emotional rejuvenation.This is where my seascapes find their purpose. Inspired by the shifting hues of the shoreline, my paintings aim to capture light, moments in time, and the tranquil rhythms of the sea.

Imagine sitting with your favorite blues track playing softly, letting the music flow through you while gazing at the serene expanses of the sea. The emotional release of the blues meets the calming power of color—together, they offer a way to reset, reflect, and reconnect with a sense of peace. In challenging times, art isn’t just about escape; it’s about healing. So, listen to the blues, look at beautiful colors, and let yourself feel better, one note and one brushstroke at a time.

Some favorite songs: There are so many.

Cross Road Blues- Robert Johnson

Feels Like Rain – Buddy Guy, Bonnie Raitt

The Sky is Crying – Stevie Ray Vaughan

Mean Old World – Eric Clapton

Enjoy,

Casey

*Now available as a museum quality print on gorgeous paper