Boots

These boots were home on leave, and so I took the liberty to draw them. Unfortunately they needed to pack up and move on before I was able to finish the pastel. They belong to a new United States Marine. I am sure they will return again.

















Very Big Boots to Fill 19"x25" pastel on canson

Two Paintings and a Couple Pastels

My work done last weekend still needs a tweak or three. I thought I might post them prior to the tweaks, just in case I don't "nail it".

What a wonderful weekend I had.
I arrived after a long drive from Los Angeles, and was greeted in Marin by my dear friends Vicki and Paul. The dinner that they shared with me - pistachio crusted fish and potato gratin, topped off with a chocolate-chip pumpkin muffin, was worth driving 7 hrs for. I adore these folks. They have been in my life for 24 years. Nice to be able to say that.

After a good cup of coffee the next morning I was on my way out to Point Reyes. So many memories were flooding back. I use to take my two boys on jaunts here when we lived in Marin. Passed the famed Lucas Skywalker Ranch, the town of Nicasio. With each turn of the road I was in heaven. This is truly some of the most spectacular parts of the world. It beats Italy in my book... but then again I love California.

I followed the instructions to the hostel, but we were not allowed to check in until 4:30 yet we were meeting at the beach picnic tables at 9:30. There were only four of us early birds, so we found a spot to set up and were on our own for the rest of the day. I did my first warm-up facing the cliffs of Drakes Beach. You can see Chimney Rock at the very tip of the peninsula. The weather was spectacular and life couldn't be better.

















Limantour Beach 9"x12" oil on linen panel

I decided to move on about noon, as the light was drastically different. Narrowing down the next spot proved to be quite difficult. I thought I would like to do something back in Point Reyes Station, but the light was quiet flat at this time of the day. So I continued to drive. I found many possible places to set up, but nothing really grabbed me. In fact while waiting for the light to change I closed my eyes. I was glad I did, after chatting until almost midnight the night before. I then decided to drive back toward the Nicasio Resevoir because it had always been one of those locations that when I came around the bend it made me take a deep breath. I wanted to feel that again. The light was really pretty on the water and so I decided to set myself up with a pastel study. I really enjoyed this spot, but the light went behind the mtn behind me quicker than I expected and so I packed up and headed back to the hostel. It was time to check in.

















Nicasio Reservoir 19"x25" pastel on Canson

Bunkbeds were the order of the day at the hostel. I had requested a women's only room, and when I arrived the bottom bunks had already been spoken for. This was going to prove to be my only challenge of the weekend. I learned I do not sleep well with 10 others breathing in the same room (you might read that as "snoring" but don't say that I said so). Sleep was difficult and the back of my Volvo wagon beckoned me.

We had a fantastic dinner. I think there were about 30 people checked in, and I had not met any of them prior to the event. How fun that Art had brought us all together.

We set out independently the next morning. Again, the list of options was so great it was difficult to choose where the perfect spot would be. Back again to the town, and I considered a few views, but drove on to the town of Inverness, CA. I happened to see a few other artists painting the Tomales Bay. I just did not want to paint the expected views. I turned the car around, and OMG the trees were golden in the light. This was the spot. There was a wonderful place to pull my car over so that I was not in any ones way. This was a side street, with two of the sweetest homes. I was into my work, when someone walked up to me. She was the restaurant owner of Vladimir's and she said it just made her day to look out and see me painting. She offered me a hot cup of coffee and we both had smiles on our faces when she left to go back to her kitchen.























Yellow Gold 12"x9" oil on linen panel

I continued to paint until the light had changed so much that I would chance making mud of my work. So I packed up and drove back to the hostel. Snacked on some lunch at Limatour Beach. Closed my eyes again, knowing that the night would not be an easy one again. Then realized I needed to find a grocery store to bring my dinner to barbeque.
When I finally made my way back to the hostel, I searched for something to remind me of the weekend. I took out my pastels once again and was captured by the colors near where the hostel's manager lived. A gorgeous red rust roof, next to a shed with turquoise siding, citron colored moss on the roof, and the light created abstracted shapes all over the structure. Again not finished, but the process for me is what is so enjoyable. Chris came to keep me company and pulled out her sketchbook and we created and visited without having to say very much. A great ending to the day.


















Leif's Place 19"x25" pastel on Canson

Sterling somehow was anointed our chef for the evening. He deserved to share my mango salsa. It was a wonderful dinner. About half of the group decided to take a walk down to the beach in the full moonlight. I was enjoying my spot on the couch, and learning more about the group I was talking with. I was also thinking that couch sure looked better than the back of my car. That is a whole other story....































The next morning was a hustle and bustle of coffee making, packing, cleaning, and sharing our work. Richard had arranged for two great Sennelier paint sets to be given away. Thankfully no voting, just a name out of the hat and the winners were quite pleased. I said my good byes while the others were still sharing stories. Obviously not wanting the wonderful weekend to come to an end a minute too soon. However, I had another cup of coffee waiting for me, at my host's home, back in Lucas Valley. Then off to lunch with another friend of 25 yrs in San Anselmo. What a great way to set foot into the month of November. I treasure these moments. I hugged Nancy this time, and filled my tank, and headed off back down through the Central Valley.

If you don't know what is happening in the San Joaquin Valley, I suggest you take a moment to check it out. This is the only part of the weekend that made me sad. I have family that farms here. I spent many vacations at my grandparents farm as a child. So it is quite emotional for me, to see nothing but dirt along the hwy. I hope that the family farms can recover from the battle over water.

A change of pace now, with a few Home Portraits commissioned for the holidays. If you are interested in a great gift that lasts a lifetime, please don't hesitate contacting me. There is still time to get one completed and wrapped before the holidays.

CAC Limantour Beach Paint Out

I head out tomorrow morning to make my way up the coast to Point Reyes Station. One of my very favorite spots in the San Francisco Bay Area. I will be painting with 40-60 (not sure of the final numbers) other artists that were invited by the NoCA Chapter of the California Arts Club.

Point Reyes Hostel

We will be staying at the hostel in Point Reyes, but the options of sites to paint each day are limitless. I might have difficulty returning home. I have been packed and ready to go for two days now. I have a new pochade to work with from Artwork Essentials, Inc. and 9"x12" single primed linen panels from Raymar Art. I am ready to go!

I also have fit in some time to visit with special friends while in Marin. What a great way to start November. I also just learned that my son will be stationed at USMC Miramar, CA. So right there, I have the opportunity of more painting expeditions. It is going to be a good month, I can tell.

Catch you all when I return, so in the meantime....do what you do best:

Detail of Treasures

Treasures detail

I am working on the golden tissue. With each plane of the tissue that is turning a different direction from the light source creates another color challenge. Also I am working on keeping the depth of the box, by making the front of the box feel a mile away from the the far side. I want the viewer to feel like s/he can climb right in. We shall see....

Working in Color

Treasures 36"x 48" oil on canvas (work in progress)

I am continuing to lay color down, tweaking one next to another. Following my studies, and not losing the form that was created by the grisaille. I am waiting to paint the tissue. Most likely because I want it to be fresh, and true to the colors that I originally saw when I began. Two of the boxes have intricate designs. I don't want to be distracted when I begin. It is a slow process, but I am able to see progress after each sitting.

Here is the charcoal of the still life that was done:

Figure Drawing - September

Figure Drawing - September 2009
Santa Monica Figure Drawing Meetup

Treasures Revisited

Treasures 36"x48" oil on canvas

This painting has been very patient with me. As I return to it once again, it has whispered to me, now is the time for color. The time is right to finish it, and honor the story. Though, I do realize it will not be a quick finish. Yet, anything worth doing is worth taking time to do.

Remember... pack your memories away, safely. One day, you will treasure them more than you thought possible.

I am painting over the grisaille. This is an under-painting done with yellow ochre, raw umber, black and white. Adding color with a mixture of linseed oil, dammar varnish, and thinner.

Newberry Gallery

Landscape with a Modern Edge
Group Show

Opening Reception at the Newberry Gallery in Santa Monica

Saturday Evening, Oct 17, 2009
7 - 10 pm

Melissa Hefferlin - Robin Purcell - William Wray
Daud Akhriev - Michael Newberry - Cathey Cadieux
David Scherrer

Landscape with a Modern Edge is a show of paintings, watercolors, photos, and pastels by contemporary artists expressing their unique visions through rethinking the landscape. Fresh color harmonies, modern subject matter, and inventive compositions are the themes guiding the selection for the show.

--
Michael Newberry
1549 11th Street #100
Santa Monica, California 90401

310-913-8986

A Cup of Inspiration

I have just had the most lovely morning. I found a blog that will take more than just one morning to read. What I have read so far, was a delight.

A Bloomsbury Life by Lisa Borgnes Giramonti
(click on her blog header for the current post. I think this image is spectacular).

Lisa is so clever with her words, and the images that she posts are an inspiration to go on my own hunt for similar treasure. I found myself many times wishing I was where she was standing, and instead of a camera, I envisioned myself painting.

She offers glimpses into her personal life. Relationships adored, a son that brings a smile to a stranger, and travel logs that make you want to book a flight.

I have bookmarked this treat, to savor over time. I am sure the linked blogs will also allow for more discoveries. Enjoy!

I'm Back....

Waking up to a new view:


A recent move, with new sounds, smells, and views. Easy public transportation for my daughter, and a wonderful artist community for me. Hills for my hubby to bike, and explore. We are almost settled.

Art continues with work in progress:


(ouch .... bad photo)



I have made time to visit Michael's studio for inspiration, and friendship, and some solid hours of work. My studio is organized, and I have an abundance of space to create. Finishing up my shoe series, then back to the Shadow Series, and Treasures. I will update my process and progress.

First a quick trip to The Hampton's and a stop over in NYC.
Leaving on a Jet Plane....

Fiche Residence

Fiche Residence 10x14" watercolor on Arches 140lb

I have recently finished a commission of a lovely home here in South Pasadena. The homeowner is very proud of her roses. We waited until they were in bloom before we proceeded. I have framed it, and will deliver it today to its new owner.

Sold

Let's Play 18"x24" pastel on Canson paper

I just found out today that this pastel sold at the Aids Service Center - Big Night Out Auction. I guess there were some people that were still writing checks after the auction closed. I am excited to know it went to a local collector.

The Art of Giving and Receiving - Art Exhibition

All Creatures Great and Small

This little guy was about 3/8" tall. He greeted me at my car door, but allowed me to shuttle him to the nearest plant. I hope he sticks around a while.

Just a Tad...

Been a tad bit busy with my new U.S. Marine. Be back in a bit...

Figure Drawing

I have been getting my feet wet again. Beginning figure drawing workshops at Michael Newberry's new studio. He has quickly found some wonderful models, and the workshops have a waiting list.

Here I have posted two longer poses. These help me to make a more studied understanding of the form. As much as I enjoy the quicker poses for my eye/hand coordination, the longer poses allow me to learn the form without the ticking of the clock in my mind.

Viva Gallery

I attended a very nice Artist Reception yesterday at the Viva Gallery, in Sherman Oaks, CA. It was well attended, and I met some wonderful people that were extremely encouraging. I don't advertise these shows much, but I enjoy entering them. I am able to watch and listen to the comments. It is similar to being a fly on a wall, and I am able to conclude whether or not my art is touching a deeper place than just hanging as pretty wall art. I have concluded that it has. I am on the right path.

These are the two pieces that were juried into the show:

Proud Moment

My son will become a Marine next week, and I wanted to take a moment to say how proud I am of all the young men that are making this choice.
This next week my son will participate in one of the hardest four days in his life. Most people never challenge themselves to this extreme in their lifetime. Please send encouraging thoughts his way. We will be able to call him a Marine on Thursday.

From two to twenty...

Let's Play

Let's Play 20 x 24" pastel on Canson

I did a new piece yesterday with the intention of donating it to an organization here in town. We have been asked to submit one or two pieces of work. I see it as a great way to put my name, and art, in front of some prominent people in the community.

I am rushing to get it framed up to drop it off this morning, but I wanted to capture the image quickly and post. I will fill you in on the results when I know more. It should be interesting.

The Art of Giving and Receiving

Confused... What else is new? Been coming and going a bit too much recently.

Good news!
I entered a show today, thinking it was going to be for a silent auction, and was juried in. YEA!
With the added surprise that my work received a Merit of Honor Award. Double YEA!

This is what I entered:

In the Shadow of an Oak

I will clarify the fact that this will not be used for the silent auction, but for a show at the Aids Service Center in Pasadena. There is also to be a Gala Dinner, called The Big Night Out, same organization. For that I need to donate a work of art. I thought I had to donate work to the auction, to be automatically entered in the show.

So you see, things are a bit forwards, and backwards here in my mind.

BTW, my son is 2.5 weeks away from being a U.S. Marine. Semper Fi
All written correspondence has been positive. GREAT attitude! One very proud family here.

Nights in White Satin - Update 2

This has been an interesting and challenging set up. I have learned a lot on it.
I still see some places that need tweaking, but the next time you see it...
my signature will be on it.

Nights in White Satin - Update

I usually work on an easel or at least have the raised. This time I wanted a lower view, so I am working on the floor. I am sitting on a very low stool, and more breaks are needed so that my back does not get irritated by bending over.

Being white on white, I am taking it slow. Getting up a lot to view it from a few steps away. I think I should get the majority laid in within the next hour. Then some refinement and sign off. Wish me luck.

Nights in White Satin

Taking a quick work in progress photo with my iphone, allows me to get back to work quicker. I need to get some black-out shades but for now, this is my WIP.

My first attempt has been filed away. I pushed the lights too quickly on it and I was not pleased, so I started fresh. Plus, the construction of these basic pumps has confused my eye. Working slowly to get the proportion correct.

The sun has not been shining at the appropriate times, for me to finish "Waiting for the Weekend". I hope to have a finished image before the weekend.

I hope you can see the colors in this white, on white set up. it has been a good learning experience to play the different whites, against each other, and see all the other colors as light bounces off of the fabric.

Waiting for the Weekend

Another pastel today, and it still needs some attention. However, I am not going to touch it, until the sun passes over the items one more time. I really liked how the shadows on the floor create a barrier of sorts. The sneakers are ready to go out an play, only to have to wait until the weekend.

A Night To Remember - update

A Night to Remember

A Night To Remember

A Night To Remember 19"x26" pastel on Canson

I began a pastel last night, and it never ceases to amaze me what a few strokes of color will create. Evening light is needed to finish this, but it doesn't need much more. I want to put in a few more areas of red to indicate the shirt on the floor. However, the shoes are the story here, and boy do they have stories to tell.

Mentor

Orange in Brooklyn by Neudorfer

(This is my very first painting done in Michael's studio and I had only been using oils for a couple of months.)

Red vs Orange by Newberry

"Those individuals who serve as our mentors in our personal and professional affairs help us grow by providing us with the information that allows us to carve our own path. Even when we desperately want answers handed to us, a good mentor will recognize that we absorb so much more from a response that inspires us to search for knowledge in our time and in our own way. They provide us with the curiosity-inspiring questions that lead us on a veritable treasure hunt of wisdom and experience that can last as long as our association continues. Similarly, they serve as role models we can approach for guidance and support when we are unsure where we should go next. Your mentor will help you maintain a sense of optimism today by reassuring you that you are on the right path."

My horoscope today was about mentors. As I am focused, once again on my personal artistic path, it was appropriate that I should receive this in my inbox.

If you have ever considered a mentor, I highly recommend it. Someone that has your personal vision in mind, is a true asset. I found my mentor a couple of years ago. He has become a friend. One that knows that my life journey has been complicated at times, but he is patient. He realizes that I will never be far away from my art. I wrote about it here.

Michael Newberry, is a gifted and generous artist. I suggest that you take a tour of his site. It is a pleasure. His mentor program is discussed here and here.

Movin' and Groovin'

I have moved my studio this past week into what was my son's room. When he is home on leave, he will have his room back. The 10 days will be a blink of the eye. For now, I am not going to waste another minute. I finally having a space to call, "My Studio".

It feels quite spacious, but it does need a work table. I am not going to rush this. I will figure out what will be the best for my needs over time. I also don't have any of my art up. My son made some beautiful and creative work in his Digital Photography / Photoshop class. That I have decided will remain up on the walls, as a way to keep him close. This room adjoins a bathroom, and the windows are on the south side of the house. Not the best from an artists standpoint, but the view is inspiring, and I am thankful to be able to finally create a space for ME. As many of my close friends remind me... It is my time now.

Eric turns 20 years old, this Friday. Keep him in your thoughts, as he is trained to push his limits farther than many of us are able to imagine.

The Art Blog Award

Awards from friends have got to be the best EVER.
My friend Billie, whom I met on WetCanvas!, awarded me with The Art Blog Award.



Thanks Billie, you made my day with your sweet comments.
Now I am suppose to tell you 7 things that make me happy.

1. The sun shining in SoCA. The light here is spectacular around 4:00. The shadows stop me in my tracks.

2. The connections that I have made on the internet. Sites that have held my hand during medical crisis. Friends that support me while I am creating. High School and College chums that have pulled out old memories I had long forgotten. The University of Google that has allowed me to grow and learn in ways I had never known possible.

3. Whole Foods Market. When you have anyone around you will special nutritional needs, this is a gold mine. I love that they strive to supply the healthiest foods daily. They even have a concierge that will walk around the store with you if you are overwhelmed by ingredient labels and the choices provided.

4. Seeing my daughter dance on the ice rink. Spectacular!

5. Thinking that my son has found his mission in life. Proud!

6. Going out to lunch with my other son, and just talking. Unconditional!

7. Anything that has to do with ART. I have never known a time in my life that I have not been moved to create. I am lucky enough to have found ways to do this on my life journey, which have evolved over time. Now is the time for me to dig deeper, create what I find there, and share it with the world. What an exciting time we live in!

Acceptance

Our ability to grant ourselves approval provides us with the strength and self-awareness we need to create an unshakable reserve of inner strength.
True acceptance can only come from within.