Sunday, June 23, 2013

Rocky Bloom (oil, 8"x10")

On the rocks along Sheep River, near the falls, these tiny lavender flowers go about their blooming business as they are designed to do by their creator. They do this despite their rocky perch and sandy soil and despite the likelihood that no one will sing their praises. They do this for the audience of one, their creator who does all things well.

 

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Seriously Tiffany (oil, 8x10)

Hopefully, some of you will recognize some of the features of my nieceTiffany Matson's in this painting. What a might struggle I've had with this one! There are so many tiny things that make each of us individuals, not the least being animation. Tiffany, in real life, is a much more animated person - she doesn't hold her cards tightly at all. At least that's been my experience. This shows the more serious side of her, pensive, etc. This is based on a photo I took when she modelled for the portrait portion of the Zhaoming Wu workshop several weeks ago. Unfortunately, I had to leave soon after we began so I painted from the photos at home, without the help and coaching of Zhaoming Wu and my fellow painters. I'm fairly happy with the result, although I have barely scratched the surface of what can be learned about painting portraits. I've left it to dry for now but I may play with warming up the colours before calling it finished. It was so much fun!

 

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

The challenges of painting figures

This painting is my most successful one from the Zhaoming Wu workshop last week. Unfortunately, I failed to notice the looseness of the canvass until the stretcher bars began showing through. Fortunately, the learnings are just as valid whether or not the paintings turn out :). Cheers!

 

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Arts Without Borders Juried Show

I've just delivered these three paintings to the Barr Colony Heritage Cultural Centre here in Lloydminster. They will be included in the Arts Without Borders Fine Art Show June 5-21. I'm looking forward to attending several other art events between now and June 14, including the Mayor's Celebration of the Arts where I will enjoy networking with some fellow artists and arts supporters, watch a quick draw competition, and receive awards for both "Remember Me" (3rd place in floral category) and "Lift My Eyes" (1st place in contemporary category). It should be lots of fun!