The Purgatory of My Art

Technically, my paintings don't go through any sort of holy judgement, but they do graduate to different spots in my house until they are either exhibited, brought to storage, rolled up, or painted over (sigh).

This is my latest art nook.

Half the time it takes to finish a piece is used painting, and the other half is spent looking. Natural light isn't very good for the pigment, but I can see the painting from the kitchen to allow double tasking. Drink a coffee and "work," ie. stare blankly at a canvas.

This morning, reflecting on the symbols referenced in the art, I realized my friend Rosa Quintana has been working on some paintings that directly discuss the use of birds in classical art. Sometimes you don't realize the connections being made in your unconscious brain until it is literally staring you in the face...

Her work can be seen here!

Painting: Meryl in Blue

Meryl in Blue features a young Meryl Streep from the movie Kramer- she was quite a pleasure to paint. It was started during a portrait workshop demo in Agassiz, which is why it rocks the unfinished look. Cleaning the brush directly on the canvas is much easier than on a cloth, and adds a touch of chaos! 

*Note, Blogspot seems to soften/airbrush the pictures after uploading. 

Painting: The Temptation

Oil on Canvas, January 2014

Approximately 30"x40"

Painting: Botanical

BOTANICAL

oil on canvas, December 2013

approx. 40"x34"

This piece, loosely inspired by a classical flora painting, features a traditional Rembrandt tulip. These tulips are characterized by their mottled colour and flaming streaks, with patterns unique to each flower. They were extremely popular int he 1600's (Tulipmania) and were sold for huge amounts of money.Unfortunately, we now know the feathered marks on "Rembrandts" are caused by a virus, which weakens the tulip bulbs before eventually killing them. Tragic!

Though Rembrandt himself isn't known for painting flowers, many Dutch masters are. Authentic Rembrandt tulips were banned but modern, virus-free look-a-like tulips are now on the market.

Painting: My Dear Master

Oil on Canvas, November 2013, Approx. 36"x28"

Painting: Elixir

Oil on Canvas, December 2013, approximately 26"x32"

New Work in Motion - Oil Paintings

Oil on Canvas, June 2013, 26"x36"

 Oil on Canvas, June 2013, 28"x36"

Recent Studies - Oil Paintings

Cashing in on the classical influences, starting to incorporate more 'washes' and abstractions. Also spending time on more studies, the importance of which I always undervalue and make fun of. 

Oil on Canvas, June 2013, 24"x24"

Oil on Canvas, June 2013, 24"x20"

Oil on Canvas, June 2013, 14"x20"