Painting with Purpose

The value plan for this 

was laid in right before the holidays. 

I finally got in the studio to work on it this week. 

"Full Swing"

24 x 24 oil 

Working on paintings over a few sessions,

is a new approach for me.

I'm naturally drawn to a more spontaneous and intuitive approach,
so slowing down and planning,
is helping me think about every stroke.

I feel like I'm painting more
purposefully.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 

Holiday Wishes

Here's to more creativity
in 2017! 

"Happy Holidays" 

8 x 10 

paper collage

"Every child is an artist, 

the problem is staying an artist when you grow up."

Pablo Picasso

I recently hosted a "Painting with Paper" party 

for a few non-artist friends

and it was such fun. 

We laid out all kinds of paper,

 grabbed glue sticks, scissors, wine 

and went to town. 

Have a safe and happy holiday everyone! 

See you in 2017.

All Systems Go

All Systems Go

24 x 36 oil 

A friend suggested I put large pieces of cardboard

 behind the canvas when painting larger  

to prevent the "bounce" affect.

WHA LA!

It works.

I had more control and could focus more 

on the shapes and colors. 

For this one, I started with the bright orange side of the building

then compared all other colors to that. 

That is a new approach for me,

and I find it challenging and fun! 

Back to Work

I've been happily getting some quality time 

in the studio these days. 

I'm painting over old paintings on canvas 

that I've toned with yellow ochre. 

Standing By

(Work in Progress)

24 x 24 oil 

A long time fan of Mitchell Johnson,

I've been re-visiting his work.

His use of large blocks of color inspire me to no end! 

From NY Times  58 x 75 oil 

by Mitchell Johnson

 After digging a little deeper, I found this one! 

Cape Porpoise

18 x 28 oil 

by Mitchell Johnson 

Residency Benefits

I've come to realize that 

one of the most valuable benefits of the residency, 

was that I began to really see.   

Without any distractions for the whole month, 

I was able to sit still and "be present"

for long periods of time. 

I began focussing on shapes and color,

and the affect they have on each other. 

My paintings are beginning to reflect that,

I think. 

High Noon, Low Tide

24 x 30 oil 

I'm finally getting to work on some ideas using 

images, sketches, and notes I took up there. 

Trying out some larger formats, 

experimenting with paint handling and edges....

stay tuned. 

NOTE: 

I did this on a stretched canvas 

which is not my favorite surface to work on. 

I find the "bounce back" factor a little frustrating. 

Residency Wrap Up

Another "zoom in" Harbor study 

for a larger piece. 

Having fun with these.....

Harbor Shapes 8 x 10 oil 

(study) 

I went to Gloucester yesterday for a  

Residency "wrap up" meeting. 

I'd like to thank Ted and Jan Charles,

the generous sponsors of the program,

the Cape Ann Museum, and the Copley Society

for providing me with such a positive experience, 

both personally and professionally.  

If you ever get an opportunity to participate in an 

Artist Residency,

I highly recommend it. 

I can't wait to see what's next!