I'm BACK

This is to Carl who is my only follower..........I had forgotten about this blog. And as soon as something interesting happens, I'll post to it. I should have been using it during the "building of the studio", and I could have posted a bunch of pictures. Maybe I'll do a catching up post.

Old Familiar Scene

I've painted this scene several times as a student. Just recently went back and saw it from a new perspective.

First in a Series

This painting is entitled "Listen". This is the first in a series of environmental paintings I'm planning for this summer.

Studio Space

Here are some photos of my new studio space located at the Downtown Market, 45 South French Broad Ave. We're open Friday, Saturday, and Sundays.

Fun Little Abstracts

I've started a series of small abstract paintings entitled The Sublime Series. Check it out. They are available at the Downtown Market, 45 S. French Broad, Asheville, NC

Tonalist class coming to a close

I've enjoyed my online class in tonalism techniques. Here's some new paintings.

Online Class

I'm really enjoying the online class with Deborah Paris. She's giving some useful information, and some wonderful ideas to try to get us out of our comfort zone. And, I don't have to go out in 5 degree weather to "go" to class.

These are 3 underpaintings that I've done so far to prepare for future instructions when the glazing process starts. I'm so glad that you never "arrive" as an artist. There is always more to learn. Enough to keep a person engaged and trying new techniques for the rest of their lives.

Beginning the New Year

Just beginning a 4 week workshop online with Deborah Paris, studying the techniques of the tonalist and luminest painters of the late 19th century. Deborah is a master of this style of painting, and I believe I'll learn some valuable insight into this fascinating way of painting.

The Blizzard of 2009

This has been the biggest snow since the blizzard of '93 in Asheville. Only now we live in the country instead of the city. And those snow plows are taking alot longer to get out here. The snow slid off of the roof onto the deck.......and broke it!!!!! I guess I'll be shoveling snow until spring. Just as well, I sure can't go anywhere. I kind of like doing manual labor. It gives me time to think and to reflect on things in my life that I need to improve on, or dream up new projects and ideas to pursue in my art. Not to mention the exercise!

Sales

Despite the challenges of today economy, sales haven't been too bad. Not as good as before the crash...but surprisingly good, considering.

Crossnore Goes to Charlotte

Crossnore Fine Art Gallery along with the Charleston Renaissance Gallery will be having an evening of fine art at the Charlotte Country Club to benefit the Crossnore children in need, hosted by Pam and Tom Barnhardt. Thursday, the 19th of November, 2009 from 5:00 until 8:00. I am truly honored to be a part of this benefit.

Halloween 2009

We had the best Halloween weekend. It started with a painting demonstration at 16 Patton Fine

Art Gallery by John Mac Kah, my teacher and mentor. And ended with a fantastic party at my friend Forrest's house in Kenilworth. The costumes were original and superbly done, and the food was to die for. I, of course, was dressed as Frida Kahlo. Thank you, Forrest.

During The Rain

This is the Lake Adger Dam during the massive amount of rain there last month. Lake Adger is about 8 miles south of Lake Lure. Beautiful lake that's perfect for kayaking because of it's restriction on high powered motor boats and jet ski's. It's peaceful and has lots of coves and streams to explore. There are tons of Deer there, and you haven't lived until you're kayaking down the river and see about 12 deer cross the river right in front of you. It is fed by the Green River, and it is the place that Dan and I hope to retire to in about 3 years. We have a beautiful 3 1/2 acre lot that looks over South Cove about halfway between the marina and the dam. I'll be doing alot of paintings of this beautiful lake.

A Magic Surprise

Driving home the other evening I took a different route than normal and came across this scene. It's so nice to discover something new so close to home. And it's a blessing when you come across this new discovery just at the right moment of light and atmosphere.

Good Reading

Just finished a wonderful book titled "Intimate Vistas, the Poetic Landscapes of William Langson Lathrop" compiled by Brian H. Peterson, Senior Curator of the James A Michener Art Museum, Doylestown, PA. An account of William Lathrop's life as a self taught tonalist painter in the late 1800's to 1938 at which time he died on his sail boat named "The Widge" that he built himself . The boat survived the hurricane, but Lathrop was swept overboard at the age of 79. The book gave some interesting insights about the Tonalist painters of the time, along with the Hudson River School painters and the Impressionist painters. It also included many letters that he wrote to family members and friends that beautifully expressed his philosophy and personal insight on nature and human nature.

Arts Council of Henderson County

Last nights opening of the "Traditions" Exhibition was wonderful. There was a great turnout of visitors despite the weather being challenging. Working at 16 Patton Gallery, I'm aware of the amount of work it takes to pull together such a large undertaking. The staff of ACof HC and Wickwire Gallery did a fantastic job, and I'm so grateful that they took the time and energy to have this show for the artists in the community.

This is a tromp l'oeil painting that I was experimenting with. Considering the current state of the economy, it is appropriately titled "Career By a Thread".

"Rainy Drive Home" was juried in for the Arts Council of Henderson County Exhibition "Traditions, City of Four Seasons In Two Dimensions" judged by Ann Vasilik. I truly am honored to have one of my pieces chosen for the show.

Welcome to my blog. I'm just learning this stuff, so hopefully I'll have some photos posted soon of new art work and some insights about my life as a painter. Check back soon.