7/31/10

Another for the Raining Cats & Dogs Show


Delivered my puppy paintings of our favorite guys in the house for the show that opens next week at Around the Corner Art Gallery in Montrose, CO. Was great fun painting the bright colors and personality of little Jack Russell, Levi. I was so excited that I ended up with a couple of optional entries. This one is a little 8x10 oil titled "Suspended Animation". Was tempted to call it, "Reclining Nude" for fun!

7/12/10

Striations in Blue & Gold


This painting may be a finished one. Been staring at it & tweaking it. This scene was captured as we were riding the motorcycle between Gunnison & Crested Butte. What an incredible day it was with cloud filled majestic views as we skirted between the thunderstorms getting only a sprinkle along our journey.

As on this painting, I start out by laying on a quick ground of an orange or alizirin crimson wash. Then I sketch in the composition developing a monochromatic tonal layer that helps me define the darks, lights and hopefully lays the foundation for a dynamic composition. Once that foundation is laid, in the same painting session, I begin to layer on heavier paint and build in blocks of color. It is an intuitive process for me. I don't get analytical about it until the painting is nearly finished and I am adding the final touches.