Tuesday, November 24, 2009
East Side House With Light From The West-Cleveland, Ohio, Afternoon Light, Daily Painting
We spent the afternoon in Little Italy on the east side of Cleveland. After a very nice lunch and coffee and cannoli at Presti's bakery I found this view through an alley and behind the store fronts.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Bright Morning/November,Ohio,Farm,White Barn,Daily Painting
The second Ohio painting. These simple scenes are often the most frustrating to paint. In the end, I scraped down the foreground...and liked it.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
November Morning-Ohio Farm House Barn Daily Painting
The first of my paintings in Ohio. It was a cool moist morning, very different from the mornings in Alabama and Tennessee. I am still using a limited palette but I have switched from Cobalt Blue to Ultramarine Blue, not for any real reason, just felt like a change and I had a tube of it. It is so good to be home!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
2 More Visual Development Illustrations
Here are two more visual development pieces from the same film project I worked on awhile back. I posted these because I am leaving for Thanksgiving with my family. I haven't been home in almost 3 months and am really looking forward to this trip. This will be the first Thanksgiving that we aren't all together, my oldest is away at college and with work and school isn't able to come home just yet, but in another month we will all be together for Christmas, that is something I am thankful for.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Remains Of The Harvest/Cotton Field Farm House Tennessee Daily Painting
After the cotton is harvested, what remains is the stubble and small tufts of cotton.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Pumpkins Too - Pumpkin Patch Tennessee, Dennison Family Farm, Daily Painting
The second of my pumpkin paintings. Like the first one, I kept the tree's as more of a large graphic shape. It seemed more interesting as a complimentary element to the pumpkins. Once more, I used a somewhat limited palette.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Field of Pumpkins -Pumpkin Patch,Autumn Trees,Power Lines,November,Daily Painting
I found this huge field of pumpkins, in fact there were several fields of pumpkins and two open air drying sheds full of tobacco. I've never seen so many pumpkins in one place. I love the color orange, so it was a no brainer to stop here and paint. Once again I limited my palette to five or six colors. When you are dealing with color, it is all about the relationships, limiting the palette helps me gain greater control over those relationships. When I am dealing with the light, I want greater control over the values of my color and again I think the limited palette is helpful with that.
For those in the Tennessee Valley, this field is not too far from Fayetteville, it is the Dennison Family Farm.
For those in the Tennessee Valley, this field is not too far from Fayetteville, it is the Dennison Family Farm.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Beyond The Pasture Farm House Pasture Tree November Daily Landscape Oil Painting
The farmhouse below the upper pasture and tucked under the large trees was an appealing subject. I have limited my palette on the last two paintings. It seems to work at this time of year and I like to mix up my process from time to time.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Autumn Across The LandFall November Tree Field Pasture Daily Painting Oil Landscape
I drive past this field and trees every day. Yesterday was clear and sunny and the huge tree (actually 2 trees) seemed to me as if they were a dinosaur walking across the landscape.
I love the light and colors of the month of November and this was lots of fun to paint.
Check out this article it showcases one of my paintings.
I love the light and colors of the month of November and this was lots of fun to paint.
Check out this article it showcases one of my paintings.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
November Burnout Fire Smoke Autumn Daily Painting
I came upon this scene and it sort of fit my mood as well as my interest in unusual or overlooked subject matter. I am also attracted by the challenge of painting objects in motion, like the smoke here. You have to closely observe and then work from memory and imagination. It's there and then it isn't.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
November Bright Autumn Road Tree Orange Leaves Daily Painting
A bright and glorious day in the Tennessee Valley. Very quick and simplified with lots of squinting.
Monday, November 9, 2009
House in the HillsDaily Painting, Oil, McAFEE Hill,Tennessee
I discovered this spot between Fayetteville and Pulaski Tennessee. It is a family farm with an old house and produce stand out near the road. While I was looking around the house and produce stand the owner pulled up and we talked for a bit. He gave me permission to paint on the property. There are tremendous views across the valley just to the left but I was drawn to the old family home near the road. I will definitely return to the Mcafee farm on Mcafee Road to paint Mcafee hill again.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Hay There Hay Barrels Elkton Tennessee Daily Painting Plein Air Oil Painting
Painting...at last. It has been too long an absence from the brushes and paints. This hay field in Elkton, Tennessee seemed a nice quiet spot to start with. My schedule is still pretty hectic and full and I am still without a computer at home but I will be painting and posting as often as possible.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Visual Development Art
I wanted to post something new but I haven't painted in a while. This piece is from a film project I worked on about 6 months ago.I have been swamped at work as well as freelance work.I am trying to make some extra money to replace my now DEAD computer. The Apple store guys were very interested in selling me a new Mac but not so helpful about fixing my current Mac. It may be time for a PC.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Portrait Demo's
Two portrait sketches for the group I meet with each week. Each sketch is 8"x6" and took about 30 minutes. My plan was to spend 10-15 minutes on each of these as a warm up and then start a larger painting but after taking a break and some conversation it never happened. My thanks and apologies to these artist/models for sitting for 1/2 an hour. I wish the sketches had turned out better, maybe next weeks will!
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Landscape Demo - SOLD sunlight shadow fields trees shrubs sunlight through the trees oil painting
Once a week I do a demonstration painting for a small group of artists. This is my recent effort.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Sun Field Alabama field road sign power line shadow Greenbrier bridge
I liked the contrast of the warm field beyond my cool and shady spot. This location is in Greenbrier, Alabama. Greenbrier is a tiny town that you could easily drive through and not know you have been there. They have a cotton gin a gas station / grocery store and a really great barbecue restaurant. Oh, and lots of small churches.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Sunrise at Flagstone sunrise Alabama orange yellow violet clouds trees
It's always a good day for me when I can begin it with a quick sunrise sketch before work. We have had a couple of days of great weather which makes it even more difficult to sit at my desk and stare at a computer. I just had to get outdoors, even for a short while. I'm going to try to do another sketch after work also.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Fragile Color still life daily painting green amber red purple wine glasses blinds
More of my weekend flea market finds. This is a painting I should have done standing up. From the comfort of my chair, the drawing issues were not so noticeable. The glasses were empty while I painted this sketch, so, laziness is my only excuse. I'll find out tonight, which color glass the wine tastes best from.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Red Glass, Blue Glass -still life daily oil painting blue cat red vase white blinds back lit
Flea markets, antique malls and junk shops this weekend provided a box full of objects to experiment with.
The idea here was to combine bold and graphic elements with the subtle values of the transparent and translucent. I am looking forward to the next attempt.
The idea here was to combine bold and graphic elements with the subtle values of the transparent and translucent. I am looking forward to the next attempt.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
In The Fridge, a daily still life with condiments
The joys of painting, one doesn't quite work out as you hoped, the next one works out exactly as you hoped. This result makes me very happy. I was able to keep it simple and chunky, strong color notes and contrasts. A sense of the light as I saw it and, it just simply feels right to me. There are things I would do differently now that I have had some time to look and digest this for a few hours. I think if I were to do this subject again, I might want to focus on one object a little bit more and push back the rest by easing up on the contrasts and softening some edges. Something to consider for my next sketch.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Milk and Honey - still life, honey bear, carnation, milk jug
Trying to change my thought process about painting is really hard! This painting was a struggle but I am not disappointed. There will always be varying degrees of success and even some hideous failures but it only motivates me to continue. If it was easy, it would be boring. Excluding all of the glare and my lack of ability as a photographer, this is a pretty decent sketch...in my opinion. Its possible that I am somewhat prejudice in my opinion, I love milk and honey!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Flowers and Jars - floral daily painting
I have had it in my mind to simplify the subjects I paint for a very long time. Most of the time I become absorbed in the painting and unconsciously slide into to my usual habits. A few days ago I read a quote on an artists blog from a workshop she attended (David Leffel, I believe). "Everyone paints the way they do because of the way they think. If you want to get better, change the way you think." So simple, so direct and so right on the mark! While this sketch may not seem much different from anything else I have painted, to me it is a sea change in my thinking as I paint. I hope that I can expand on this approach and not fall back into that dreamy, unconscious zone that I have enjoyed for so many years. My apologies to the artist/blog that I copied this quote from, I wrote down the quote but not the source...the dreamy, unconscious zone strikes again!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
A House of a Different Color - Ardmore, Alabama
I'm going to try to re-photograph this painting on my lunch break. I am pleased with this painting, especially the color but, it just doesn't show well in this photo. I had to stop and sketch this house, the pinkish / purple-ish color was too engaging to pass up. I can imagine being cheered up after a hard day at work by just pulling into the driveway and seeing this bright happy color.
This sketch is 12"x16", oil on canvas.
This sketch is 12"x16", oil on canvas.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Swinging, Still-Gardner Homestead, Tennessee
Just over the Alabama state line into Tennessee is the Matt Gardner Homestead, this is the swing on the front porch. Across the road is the Elk River, which I have painted several times. A short distance east is the dirt road and corn field where my 3 previous sketches were done. Prior to this painting, I was driving along the road,heading west, parallel to the river. As I passed a densely wooded section I heard a blood curdling scream above my blaring radio. It scared me silly. The road is narrow and curvy, so it was about 100 yards before I could pull over under a bridge and turn around. I drove like a maniac to get back to the spot where I heard the scream. All the while I was reaching and rooting around under the seat of my truck for some weapon to defend myself and rescue the screaming victim. The only thing I found was an 8x10 canvas. I slowed down as I rolled up to the spot, turned off the radio, opened all of the windows and scanned the woods ready to do the hero thing. Nothing...not a sound or movement. Then I heard it again but from the other side of the road and a little further ahead. I drove up again ready to take action. Staring into the forest I see a nearly hidden mobile home, next to it a chicken. It wasn't a person I heard...it was a chicken. I drove back to the Gardner Homestead and painted the very still and quiet porch swing on the 8x10 canvas. Tonight's dinner...chicken, I think!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
The Day Brightens 5x7oil on board
Looking back at the road I came in on as the sun makes an appearance. As I look at the last 3 sketches I am annoyed with the color photo reproductions here on my blog. Usually the color has a noticeable shift towards yellow because of the incandescent lighting in my studio. I turned off those lights leaving only my fluorescent lights on. Now everything has shifted towards blue, losing some of the warmer tones. There is some glare and reflection on this piece also, which is making it appear cooler...very frustrating.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Flowers and Field 5" x 7" oil on board
This was painted in the same location as yesterdays sketch. My philosophy is turn to the right and begin painting. Although I am now using an Open M Box easel and it is considerably lighter than my French easel, it is still a pain to pack up and move to a new location. There is too much stuff to move, it is so much easier to turn to the right and get to painting.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
The Road Past The Corn 5" x 7" oil on board
I painted several sketches along this dirt road and corn field. This is the most fun thing to do, quick, loose and spontaneous impressions of my day in the field...well, next to the field.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Flowers in the Studio SOLD
The flowers are from the grocery store. My plan was to sketch them up close but while preparing to paint, this wider composition felt more interesting. I am very happy with this loose spontaneous sketch. There are few details but, more "feeling"...I think. While looking at this sketch, feeling very pleased with myself, I couldn't help thinking, this picture is very familiar. Well, a little research confirmed that I painted an extremely similar one in April. There has been approx. 363 paintings since starting this blog 2 1/2 years ago, its hard to remember each post and sketch.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Demo Two, 10" x 10" oil on canvas
My second demonstration for the art group I meet with once a week.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Sweet Onion in a Box 10" x 8 oil on canvas SOLD
The goal here was to try to paint the varied and subtle colors of an onion. Each time I looked more colors were revealed through the translucent and reflective skin. This is the second version. After looking at the first one for a day, I felt it wasn't working, so...I jumped back in and repainted the entire picture. I guess I'll know if this version works better after a few days or week when I am not so close to the painting. I find it very difficult to judge my own work, especially when it is still on the easel.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Sunset Clouds 8" x 10" oil on canvas
From my balcony I could see these huge clouds. They seemed frozen in space, until I started painting and then it seemed as if they were jet propelled. After looking back on my last few paintings I seem to be in my orange and blue period.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Plums 8" x 10" oil on canvas
The weather channel was wrong. It never did storm in my area. I didn't want to get caught in the predicted thunderstorms so I painted a bowl of plums on my small balcony. I am pretty happy with this one. There wasn't any direct light on my subject but loads of reflected light from the glorious sunlight that wasn't supposed to be there!
Monday, September 7, 2009
Morning in the Foothills 8" x 10" oil on canvas
I painted this about 2 weeks ago but never got around to posting it.
White on White with Blade 5" x 6" oil on board
A small sketch to get myself back on schedule and hopefully find the groove again.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Demo Painting 7" x 9" oil on canvas - SOLD
I painted this as a demonstration for a class last night. A nectarine, red pears, small green pear and a papaya(?) that drove me nuts. It was a lot of fun and they are a very nice group, I'm looking forward to next week...without the papaya!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Streaming Light and Shadow 9" x 7" oil on board
A shallow stream in the park. I liked the reflection of the sky in the shadow as well as the sun light on the banks of the stream. I think I am moving in the right direction again.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Elk River 7" x 9" oil on board
As I drove further down the road, I came to the Elk River. This was where I had wanted to go when I started out early in the morning. The other day I mentioned how I like to take roads I have never been on before...the problem is, I can never remember how to get back to these locations the next time I am out painting. Well, I found the river, not the spot I was aiming for,but a good one none the less. This is the third sketch of the day. I think it worked out a little better than the others. Sometimes you have to be satisfied with the effort if not so much with the results.
Hay Barn 7" x 9" oil on board
I tried to loosen up on this sketch but it didn't really work out too well so...I packed up again and went further down the road.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Morning in Elkton 7" x 9" oil on board
The morning and the painting started out well. As sometimes happens, I began to alter my original intent and second guess my decisions and ended up with a "noodle-y" and over worked mess. It happens...to frequently but I packed up, moved down the road and started another sketch. There is always the chance that the next painting will be my best ever.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Brown Hollow Road 7" x 9" oil on board
I always try to take the road I have never been down before. This is one of those roads.
3 Ohio Sketches - watercolor
I did these sketches during my recent trip home. They are watercolor with white gouache on 300 lb. paper. The sizes are approximately; 4"x8 1/2", 3 1/2"x 5" and
2 1/2"x 5". Further below is a photo of the artist and his painting at the Butler Institute of American Art.
2 1/2"x 5". Further below is a photo of the artist and his painting at the Butler Institute of American Art.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Peach Bite 7"x9" oil on board
My lunch time sketch...in fact, its part of my lunch. Hopefully this is a better photograph of the sketch. The focus is better but now there is glare. I was interested in capturing the light that is visible through the peach. I think it kind of works.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Plum Bitten 7"x9" oil on board
Its been awhile! I attended the opening of the 73rd Mid Year Exhibition at the Butler Institute of American Art. It was great and a complete thrill to see one of my paintings hanging in this beautiful museum. I returned full of energy and motivation to paint but... pressing projects at work and very long hours have slowed me down. I think I have passed the "crunch" time and can now devote some time to my own work. As you can see this plum painting is my attempt to work out some of the rust. It was better to eat than paint but its a start.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Southern Sunrise - SOLD
I am headed back to Ohio for the opening of the Mid Year Exhibition at the Butler Museum of American Art. I'm looking forward to seeing one of my paintings hanging on the wall in this prestigious museum.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Sunset on a Lake 5"x6" oil
A very large lake with nice views of the mountains and hills in the Tennessee Valley. I used a cad. yellow as a ground color to begin.
This sketch is painted on a gessoed 100% rag illustration board. I like the hard, slick surface but the gesso, absorbing the oils will take a little getting used to.
This sketch is painted on a gessoed 100% rag illustration board. I like the hard, slick surface but the gesso, absorbing the oils will take a little getting used to.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Sunset on the River 8"x8" oil
This is the Tennessee River at sunset. Decatur, Alabama is in the distance. For a lower perspective, I sat on the ground, also because I forgot to pack a tripod to attach my paint box to.
Monday, June 22, 2009
i 2 i chat 8"x16" oil NFS
Usually Kathi and Caroline stay connected with i chat, last week they were able to chat eye to eye...no computers. They are trying to talk me into this technology...maybe after I learn how to use my cell phone. I did receive an ipod for fathers day so I am becoming more hi-tech, of course my daughters set it all up, I just put on the headphones.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Gray Morning on a Great Lake 10"x10" oil
This is the first sketch from the last day of my trip to Ohio. From Edgewater Park you get a great view of Cleveland. Gray and overcast with a few sprinkles really fit my mood, I was leaving home the next morning for work again.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Rushing Water, Standing Tree 6"x8" oil SOLD
The early summer heat must be getting to me...I forgot to photograph one painting and completely forgot that I did this one. I have been out late, sketching sunsets this week for a commission. Yeah, thats it...the heat and exhaustion...I'm not getting old!
Gray Day in the Flats 10"x10" oil
This is the second of the sketches I painted on my last day in Cleveland but, I forgot to photograph the first one. I really enjoy painting in the "Flats".
The Cuyahoga River runs through it. There are bridges everywhere you look.
It is urban, industrial, decayed and full of character. I felt as if I was in another world and other time. The RTA trains were going by on the bridge in front of me and a huge barge and tug boat on the river behind me...it was great!
The Cuyahoga River runs through it. There are bridges everywhere you look.
It is urban, industrial, decayed and full of character. I felt as if I was in another world and other time. The RTA trains were going by on the bridge in front of me and a huge barge and tug boat on the river behind me...it was great!
Friday, June 19, 2009
River Willow 8"x8" oil
This spot was pretty far from any trails or road. I had painted near here previously and wanted to explore it a little more. I chose this view for completely non-artistic reasons - I was tired of lugging all of my paint supplies through the brush and I had packed a great lunch and couldn't wait any longer. In the past I have found that I would search and search for a subject and find nothing, using up all of my available time. Now, I pick a location, unpack my gear, sit and look...eventually the subject of the painting finds me. By the way, while I was painting this, the biggest turtle I've ever seen came by. He walked/swam right up the middle of the river going against the current. Another treat and reason to paint and explore outside of the studio.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
River Rocks 5"x7" oil
A loose and spontaneous sketch, as I try to capture my reaction and impressions of this scene. The contrasts of the solid, almost immovable rocks and the shallow,transparent and constantly moving water as well as the sunlight and shadow was a delight to study and paint. Water is always a challenge for me to paint. It is so easy to become confused, the reflections, what lies beneath the surface, the movement. Every look between brushstrokes is different."Squinting" often, really helps simplify some of this. I'm pretty happy with this sketch. An alternate title for this might be "You First".
Click to bid
Click to bid
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
The River Falls 8"x8" oil
These falls are found in Berea, Ohio. I completed a couple of sketches there.To see my first painting at the falls (May 6, 2007 post)
The blue shadows on the water were from my "block in" and are overstated but I liked them so I left them. It was a pleasant afternoon, no one took any notice of me at all.
The blue shadows on the water were from my "block in" and are overstated but I liked them so I left them. It was a pleasant afternoon, no one took any notice of me at all.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Down River 8"x8" oil
There is a lovely covered bridge on this river...I am standing underneath it! A few feet behind me are two small boys, fishing.
I chose this spot for its shade, privacy and the view down river. About half way through the painting, the boys came over with their fishing gear and set up a few feet behind me. They were very happy and excitedly discussing strategies for catching fish. I felt as if I were in a Rockwell painting. Their father walked over, stood on a rock almost directly in front of me. The boys began casting their lines as if they were fly fishing. Not very effective if you are under a bridge and frightening if you are 3 or 4 feet away with your back turned. Within seconds their hooks were caught up in the rafters and floor joists of the bridge, whew! not in my back, neck or ears. I finished my sketch quickly and moved on with out a scratch.
I chose this spot for its shade, privacy and the view down river. About half way through the painting, the boys came over with their fishing gear and set up a few feet behind me. They were very happy and excitedly discussing strategies for catching fish. I felt as if I were in a Rockwell painting. Their father walked over, stood on a rock almost directly in front of me. The boys began casting their lines as if they were fly fishing. Not very effective if you are under a bridge and frightening if you are 3 or 4 feet away with your back turned. Within seconds their hooks were caught up in the rafters and floor joists of the bridge, whew! not in my back, neck or ears. I finished my sketch quickly and moved on with out a scratch.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Broken on the Bank 6"x6" oil - SOLD
The third sketch on the river, a tree that has lost its footing from the high spring run off. I was attracted by the strong direct light as well as the reflected light off the the exposed river rock. If you ever find yourself on the west side of Cleveland, check out the metro parks. There are lots of hiking and bridle trails and beautiful river views everywhere.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Sunlight on the Riverbank 6"x6" oil
My second painting on the river. It is a great day when I can spend a few hours beside a river. I had a few new brushes with me and seemed to do more "dabbing" than usual. I love new brushes...the sharp edge and the point. I don't have a very delicate stroke and tend to beat brushes into an early grave. I mostly use Utrecht bristles and I carry a few Princeton bristles, all flats and brights and cheap.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Rocky River Saturday 6"x6" oil - SOLD
I had a great trip home, it was so much fun. I was able to paint...a lot because as anyone with teenage daughters knows (and I usually forget), they have their own lives,always have plans and always have friends they have to meet at the mall...so dad had plenty of free time to paint (after the yard work was done).
This is a sketch in the Rocky River reservoir. There are tall cliffs on both sides and the river runs for miles. I was able to complete 10 sketches at the river and will be posting them over the next week or so.
This is a sketch in the Rocky River reservoir. There are tall cliffs on both sides and the river runs for miles. I was able to complete 10 sketches at the river and will be posting them over the next week or so.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Broken Sunset 6"x6" oil
The last of the sketches. This was started just before the sun fell behind the hills. This is the "loose-est" of the 4 with the quickest and fewest brush strokes I could make.
After four months away from home for work, I am heading home to celebrate my daughters high school graduation. I will paint and post if there is time...but I wouldn't bet on it! this is family time.
Click to bid
After four months away from home for work, I am heading home to celebrate my daughters high school graduation. I will paint and post if there is time...but I wouldn't bet on it! this is family time.
Click to bid
Light at the Edge 6"x6" oil
The third of my 4 sketches. I was facing south west, I think. The sun was low and just to the right, peripherally (gotta love spell check). I like this small lone tree catching the light at its edges and bathed in reflected light from the field.
Northeast View 6"x6" oil
The second of the series of sketches. There is a gravel road in to this farm and it is up and down steep hills. Both sides are fenced off with barbed wire. As I was painting I was treated to a chorus of cows moving up and over the hill. Way off in the distance there were mules and donkeys braying. You can't get that in the studio. I am convinced that there will come a time when I am able to infuse all of this stimuli into my painting, it's just a matter of practice and discipline...I hope!
Click to bid
Click to bid
Monday, June 1, 2009
Near and Far Hills 6"x6" oil
This is the first in a series of 4 paintings. I began shortly after 5pm and raced the sun. As each sketch was completed, I would turn the easel to find the next picture and begin again. This was fun and forced me to simplify and make very quick decisions. Best of all...I am 4 sketches closer to becoming the painter I want to be.
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Click to bid
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Big Tree in a Small Town 9"x12" oil
The clarity of the afternoon light was intoxicating. Everything just sparkled.
Afternoon Light and Shadows 6"x8" oil on linen
One of my favorite things to paint is the unusual view or unlikely subject. This is one of those. It seems as if you just stumbled in to it but, I have been looking at this spot for many months and yesterday "it" and I were ready to work together. I am very pleased with this painting.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Thistle, Bow 6"x8" oil on linen
I love the color of these wild flowers but, you don't want to pick them...they hurt!
Monday, May 25, 2009
Black and White and Gray 9"x12" oil
I sort of abstracted the background, I think it works pretty well against the vase of flowers. Once again, there is loads of glare on the painting. The background is considerably darker than it shows here.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Golden Afternoon 6" x 8" oil - SOLD
That perfect time in the afternoon as the sun is moving lower in the sky. Everything was sharp and clear with strong light and shadows.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Below The Fields 6" x 6" oil - SOLD
Yesterdays painting was looking back on the road in, todays painting is looking forward on the same road. The rabbits were still there and still watching but not as closely as yesterday...I guess my painting doesn't interest them very much.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The Road In 6x6 oil
A small dirt road to the fields. I had a large audience of rabbits watching me. At first they were very frightened, running in every direction. By the end of this sketch they hardly paid any attention to me at all.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Small Town Style 11x14 oil
Late afternoon in front of a beauty parlor / barbershop. I like the vintage hair dryers and the mismatched chairs in the window, even a magazine rack in the shadows. This shop reminded me of the "beehive" hairdo's that always seemed to be sitting in front of me in church or the movie theater when I was a boy.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Fire Sky 20x16 oil
"Please don't hate me, cuz I'm ugly! Some dope took an bad photo of me, I'm really not as bad is this photo" It's true, the photo is REALLY ugly, the painting is just a little ugly. I don't know what I was thinking, taking a 16x20 canvas out to paint a sunset! The sun was practically down before I finished blocking in the house, I tried to finish as best I could from memory...in the dark.
UPDATE; I just took delivery of a frame I ordered for the painting that will be sent to the Butler Institute of American Art. I stuck this painting in it for ha ha's...and it looked pretty good. I think I like it now! Below is the painting in a frame.
I have also changed the title.
UPDATE; I just took delivery of a frame I ordered for the painting that will be sent to the Butler Institute of American Art. I stuck this painting in it for ha ha's...and it looked pretty good. I think I like it now! Below is the painting in a frame.
I have also changed the title.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Bedtime Reading 8x8 oil
I have been asked about the book on the bed. It is "Marjorie Dean, College Senior" by Pauline Lester. I think it was written in 1922 and is part of a series (Marjorie Dean, College Freshman etc. "A Series of Stories for Girls 12 to 18 Years of Age").It has an inscription inside, "From Evelyn Cowan, To Ruthie Ann Cowan, December 25, 1927. I have a number of books from the early 1900's for kids, they have great cover illustrations and the stories are very entertaining.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Wild Flower Garden 10x10 oil
A very pretty wild flower garden next to the garage. I have painted more flowers this spring than in the whole rest of my painting life and I am enjoying it very much.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
A Stream Emerges From The Wood 8x10oil
This is the same stream I was beside on May 7 when I painted "Beside a Stream" (clever title...not). I followed the stream and found the spot where it exits the woods. I like the word "Emerge" better than "Exit", hence this title. In my small world and imagination, this was like discovering the source of the Nile. For me that is half the fun of my painting. I love the searching for new locations. I feel like an explorer even when I am in my own backyard because you never know when you will see something for the first time, something that you may have never taken notice of before...its magic, when that happens.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Spring, into the Studio 8x8 oil
I always surround my vegetable garden with Marigolds. Being away from home for work again, means another spring and summer without a garden. Fortunately, I can bring a little bit of "Spring into the Studio"
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Preparation Of Lunch 10x10 oil
There is hardly a meal that in my opinion, isn't improved by these ingredients. My kids won't go anywhere near anchovies. If, they only knew how many of their favorite "Dad" meals, include anchovy in them.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
A Table For Two 12x9 oil
A Geranium a dish of strawberries and loads of straight lines! It looks as if the flower and the berries are on a date. I was drawn to the composition, light and the subtlety of color and value but, I like the hint of a story too.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Beside a Stream 9x12 oil - SOLD
The springtime weather here in Alabama has been violent in its extremes. Thunderstorms and tornado's interrupted by a beautiful warm day every now and then. The weather cleared yesterday afternoon...so I rushed out to paint.I discovered this quiet shady spot, perfect for an afternoon of painting... the mosquito's liked it to.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Companions 10x10 oil - SOLD
I found a clump of these very pale pink flowers by the roadside. I have no idea what kind they are but they are beautiful. I paired them with a plate of blackberries in front of the blinds. This painting was done with a very limited palette. Alizarin Crimson and Thalo Green. There are a few little additions of Cerulean Blue and Yellow Ochre.
I also re-photographed and re-posted yesterdays painting (Tall and Short) under natural light, the color of the first photo was too far off and it bugged me.
I also re-photographed and re-posted yesterdays painting (Tall and Short) under natural light, the color of the first photo was too far off and it bugged me.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
The Tall And Short Of It 9x12 oil
Last night I received notification that one of my paintings has been accepted for the 73rd Mid-Year Exhibition at The Butler Institute of American Art. The painting is "A Boyfriends Car" and can be viewed below. I am really thrilled with this very unexpected news.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Daisy Pool 8x8 oil
One of the flowers had a broken stem. I didn't want to throw it away, so I put it in a tuna can with some water. I keep several left over tuna fish cans in the studio. When I need a new brush cleaner, I wrap one with galvanized wire mesh or screen and drop it into a tomato can and add mineral spirits. The sediment falls through into the tuna can. I have several store bought turp cans but none work as well as this method and the cost is a tiny fraction of the commercial cans.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Well Rusted in Retirement 16x20 oil
I am drawn to old cars and trucks that have been left to rust in a field, it seems such a waste.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Friday, May 1, 2009
The Color of a Sunrise 7x9 oil
Painting at sunrise is one of my favorite things to do. The light changes so quickly that you have no choice but to simplify. I prepare for painting the night before. My brushes are clean, palette is clean and fresh paint is squeezed out. I hate rooting through my back pack trying to find a specific tube in the dark or low light and it eats up valuable painting time. Sunrise and sunset seem to be the easiest to paint. I find mid-day the most difficult. The color of the light, lack of good shadows, everything seems flattened out...much harder decision making process.
Best of all, before most people have even thought about their first sip of coffee, I've completed a painting!
Best of all, before most people have even thought about their first sip of coffee, I've completed a painting!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tulips Silhouette 10x14 oil - SOLD
I found the spider like arrangement of the flowers against the horizontal blinds interesting. There is something about back lit objects that always attracts me. I think because the objects are silhouetted, the shapes are somewhat simplified and more graphic. Simplify, something I try to remember but too often its only after I have finished my painting that I recall.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Artist and Model 12x12 oil
Another attempt at painting a subject that I don't usually paint. It is always frustrating but well worth the effort if I can learn from the experience. I was trying to paint in a looser, more free way but found myself getting to caught up in some of the details. Finally I ended in that very awkward spot of to much detail and not not enough detail. I am trying to eliminate or at least minimize "rendering".
This was fun and frustrating!
This was fun and frustrating!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Below The Hills 12x12 oil SOLD
This is the second view of the barn. I liked that it was nestled into the small valley below the hills. The structure of the barn was interesting, mostly open with a shallow pitched roof line. The metal roof with the light reflecting off of it gave me fits. I just couldn't get it to feel right.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Overflow 9x12 oil
I found this farm on route 50, near Lynchburg. It was a beautiful location. It would be a simple, straight forward deal to paint this barn or so I thought. After all, this is right in the middle of my "comfort" zone. I've painted hundreds and hundreds of landscapes...a piece of cake, NOT. I painted 2 views of this barn and struggled every inch of the way. Painting seems to do that every now and then, just when you think you're in the "groove", the paints and brushes rise up and kick you in the ass just to remind you how little you control. I will post the other barn painting tomorrow.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Field Road 10x10 oil - SOLD
I was heading to a different location to paint but, when I got there I found that real estate developers had beaten me to it. I continued my search for a subject and found a small dirt road turn off. I must have driven 1 1/2 miles around and between fields when I saw this scene. It was a nice quiet spot to spend a few hours painting. I am very pleased with the results and hope the developers never find this spot.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Kitchen Yard 10x10 oil - SOLD
While painting this house I was treated to a Blue Grass concert going on across the street. It was fun having music to paint by. I may have to finally get an ipod. I have received 2 of them as gifts but re-gifted them when I found out they didn't automatically come with my favorite music and that I would have to "download" it...that didn't sound like something I would enjoy doing. I've since learned that its not so bad or hard to do.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Spring Puddles 9x12 oil - SOLD
This is the same location as "Winter Wheat". I got there after work, turned to my right (east, I think) and began painting. Now that I have met the "crop consultant" and he told me the name of the owner, I may move off the roadside and into the fields.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Yellow Tulips 8x10 oil
I don't often paint flowers. My goal this year has been to paint subjects outside of my comfort zone, ie; still life,plastic bags, meat etc.. This was harder than I expected and I am looking forward to doing more. Apologies for the "glare" on the painting, I always seem to struggle trying to photograph "dark, wet" paintings.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Winter Wheat 8x10 oil
This field of winter wheat is directly across the road from the pond I painted yesterday. The tire tracks are what attracted me to paint this. They show you where you are and in what direction you are headed and hold the promise of the future at the end or around the next corner. I really wanted to drive through this field but, I didn't know who owned it and in my experience farmers can get pretty annoyed at strangers tramping through their fields. In fact just as I was finishing up a truck pulled up with what turned out to be the crop consultant to the owner. He was there to check on a report of someone suspiciously standing near one of Mr. Shaw's fields...just me, paintin'
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