Figure Drawing

Wine Tasting     20x15" charcoal on Rives

Patience   20x15" charcoal on Rives

Wenying   15x20" charcoal on Rives

 

 

I have been having a wonderful time at Randy Higbee's Open Studio for Artists on Wednesday evenings. He has lovely models, and quite a lot of room. This accommodates many artists and many different views.

This past week we were treated to roasted potatoes in truffle oil, roasted beets, baked beans, cabbage and strawberry salad, wine and cheese. A quick nibble and back to work, until the next model break. All the while listening to Randy's assortment of music he chooses for the occasion.

It is a fun time, and a great way to meet new artists. You can also frame work, since Randy is the King of Frames.

Palisades Park, Santa Monica

View from the Pergola
 12x9" oil on linen panel



















Palisades Park
9x12" oil on linen
























fun
12x9" oil on linen
























Ocean Avenue
12x9" oil on linen


I had a wonderful day yesterday painting with Michael Newberry at Palisades Park.
The weather was lovely. Quite a relief from the 100º we have been having in the San Gabriel Valley.

These four works were done with a method that is quite fun. You find a color in the shadow and use that as an under painting. The next step is to wipe out the lights in the view as best you can, going back to a clean panel for the brightest lights.

My goal was to attempt to leave with four paintings by the end of the day. When plein air painting, it is never a good idea to spend more than 2 hrs maximum on a view, since the light changes so quickly. It was helpful to focus on one aspect of a painting, I wanted to communicate.

I share my four here with you.

Harwich Residence

Harwich Residence                     18x22" watercolor on Arches

A recent move, downsizing, after the baby left home for college, allowed me the opportunity to paint their new house.  I really enjoyed painting their new home. The architecture is so gracious. You see details in these period homes that are not typical in today's construction. The beautiful front yard is enclosed by a tall hedge, lush landscaping and a quaint courtyard.  So it was necessary to have a closer perspective than I usually paint.

The homeowner was allowed a quick peak before I had it photographed at, Art Works Fine Art Publishing . She was thrilled, so tomorrow I am excited to deliver it framed. She plans on it being a surprise for her husband. I find this happening more often with the Home Portraits. It is a unique way to say thank you. I can't wait to hear what her husband says.

Aligned Partners

Aligned Partners  18x24" pastel on Canson

I began this pastel last night at Randy Higbee's Open Studio. A great evening for artist's to meet up, be creative, and share a few stories along the way.

The set up was created for a group, so it is rare that you find yourself placed with the best view. I realized after I began that the two roses, and the nectarines happened to be lined up down the center of my composition. Thus my title - Aligned Partners.  I think this compositio works, because the other two roses and grapes, create a nice diagonal which keeps the eye moving around the vase.

I had fun with this still life, because it is not a set up I would normally paint.