Happy Easter!

"Thumper"

12 x 12

Over the winter I worked on a number of still life paintings. When I felt myself growing too "tight" with a particular painting, I would chose a more whimsical subject for the next one. Using subject matter that was not too serious was meant to prompt me to lighten up my attitude and to loosen up with the paint application. I had great fun with a series of stuffed animals. With Easter approaching, I thought it would be timely to share these bunny rabbits. Happy Easter to all!

"Peter Cottontail"

SOLD

Portrait of My Studio

"My Studio"

30 x 24

I love painting interiors. Over the past six months or so, I have avoided painting from photographs, and have painted exclusively from life. That approach makes it very difficult to paint interiors--there are just not many indoor spots that one can set up an easel and make a mess with oil paints and solvent! 

But then I had the idea to set up a little vignette in my studio. The painting above is the result. I was pleased with the way the painting evoked the feel of the place. And I love the aggressive brush strokes. I really worked on my paint application this time to "lay it and leave it".

When is it Finished?

"Red Striped Tablecloth"

24 x 20

It's a questions that I often struggle with: "When is it finished?" It can be hard to know when you have reached the point that your painting is complete, and it's time to stop. I find that as my painting grows closer and closer to its finish, more and more time elapses between each brush stroke. Before each new stroke, I am asking myself "Will this help the painting, or hurt it?" 

If you are a painter, you probably have experienced the anguish of crossing the line into the dreaded territory of the "over-worked". I know I have. Personally, I love to see the mark of the artist's hand, and a bit of a roadmap into how the paint was put on the canvas. In the painting below, I forced myself to stop while the most decisive brushstrokes in the shutters and facade were still evident. I like the geometry and energy they create, and I think it gives the viewer a stronger insight into my process.

"Front Stoop Garden"

24 x 20

(Sold)