Copper Metallic Paint

To add an element of “bling” to a painting, some artists apply a touch of gold, silver, copper or bronze. While metallics are not something I frequently use, I do admire the use of these paints in other artists’ creations. It can cause two reactions in viewers from revulsion to admiration. This being said, I purchased some metallic paint the other day! Will I be able to control how much I use or will I go overboard? Would a totally metallic painting be boring or fascinating? I think I will try to paint all metallic.

Green Glory

Creating unique abstract paintings is an intellectual, as well is intuitive, challenge. I find some paintings made with ready-mixed paint rather boring. While very easy to use, these pre-mixed colours annoy me somewhat. I like the challenge of mixing my own paints. For example, to make green add yellow to blue. Brighten the mix by adding some white. Experiment with the colours to see what you can create! Mixing up some primary colours (red, blue and yellow) plus black and white can produce amazing results.
The above painting is all green glory and fun to create.

When I critique my own abstract paintings, the first thing I look to see is whether there is a definite point of interest. Other questions I ask of the painting is:

1. do my eyes travel around this painting?

2. what is the first area I see?

3. are the colours too similar?

To ensure I have added interest to my paintings, I need to see shades of colours used and check that there is a good contrast to provide interest. To make a shade lighter and brighter I will add white. On the opposite side, to enrich and dull a colour, I will add gray.

Four large-sized canvases are in my studio and calling me to get busy and apply some paint. I have several thoughts as to what colours will be used. The family for which I am creating these paintings is a lively and intelligent. I think bright colours will suit them. The direction I received was to show the four seasons. Is that easy? Some days it is while other days I cannot imagine what exactly I will paint. At an art critique session, a quotation was posted on the wall: “Commit to process not to outcome.” I will post this quote in very large letters in my studio where I can see it at all times!

Black White and One Colour

I am in the midst of creating a number of paintings using black and white with one colour for a group exhibition September 28 to October 2, 2011, at the McKay House in Unionville, Ontario. Working with only black and white is not a challenge for me. However, the one colour does require some thought. Should I choose a bright primary colour—red, yellow or blue? Or, make a bright tint? Would a rich tone be more effective? To tint or tone; that is the question!

The little drawing above was created on paper using a pen and ink.

Sheet Music Collage

While puttering around in a used bookstore, I found a music book for violin! I handed over the asking price and left the store with my new treasure. You see, I did have a plan in mind for my purchase as soon as I saw it. My plan was to create a collage using the paper cover and sheets of music. I have never found collage easy but within a few hours I made a good start on four small works (12” x 12”). They are not complete but I have progressed very quickly. After cutting, tearing and folding the old sheet music, it seems they just fell in place on their own. I made some really neat art easily!

Smashed Rainbow #4

The original painting of “Smashed Rainbow” was purchased by my daughter about three years ago. She will be visiting this weekend and it is not only a personal visit but an art business transaction. I am to create four paintings for her new home and each measures 72″ x 48″. Once the canvases are delivered to me, I will begin work. Fortunately, my dear daughter has given me a free reign to create what I like with the exception that the four seasons are to be represented in each of the paintings. This will be an exciting adventure. I will post my progress so you can follow me during the creation process.

Prarie Earth

Cooler weather seems to coincide with art association memberships renewals, revived interest in taking new art class offerings, and critique get togethers with my group of ten artists. I become aware of childhood anticipation felt returning to class after a wonderful summer recess.

What should I offer for critique sessions? What painting course should I try? Is there a an art association with which I want or do not wish to renew my membership? Of course, I will take new work for other artists to critique. Of course I will renew with the art association. Of course I will try a new painting technique. Life is about challenges and the opportunity to face a blank canvas paint brush in hand and pots full of newly-mixed colours!

Detail--Art Exhibit Beacher Cafe, Toronto

Shown above is a detail photo of my painting 22″ x 15″ (before framing) to be exhibited at the Beacher Cafe on Queen Street East in Toronto from September 1 to September 29, 2011. I will be one of a four-artist group of abstract painters. Each artist has their own style and I am sure you will be impressed by the art. Of the paintings I will be exhibiting some are framed but all are offered for sale at extremely reasonable prices. These new and unique paintings have not been exhibited nor offered for sale before this show. You are invited to come and see our exhibit at the Beacher Cafe located on Queen Street East, Toronto, Ontario. It is a great spot to dine and while enjoying an excellent meal, view the art.

On September 28 and continuing until Sunday, October 2, 2011, I will be exhibiting some of my paintings along with seven other artists. The theme of our exhibit is “B W + 1″ meaning, Black White and One colour. What a challenge to have eight abstract painters in a small but beautiful setting at the McKay House! We are all very experienced artists with each of us having our own style and presentation methods. The venue is the McKay House in Unionville, Ontario. You are invited to drop in to see the show, meet the “Group of Eight” and spend some time on Main Street, Unionville.