Wednesday, March 23, 2011

New Ideas , Old Sketches and Photography















Took some time away from the studio and recently went through old draws of numerous dated works. Wanted to document how my work has progressed and changed. Photography is a compelling medium! I worked with a video artist in Mamaroneck, NY for a while. Will never forget the shoot of a sail boat factory we did. The perspective of walking into the shop and looking up at tall ramps and tables constructed for these amazing vessels was mind blowing.
This shot of my figure drawing image with the photo impression of the landscape moves me to other mediums I forgot I loved. I remember my textile days, weaving yarns, dyeing yarns and sewing yarn with drawings!! Boy, where did my creativity go. To be young and have such a free spirit. Miss my dance classes too.

Spirited Sketches of the Camel













Here is a quick sketch of the camel I promised. How impressed I am with the amount of weight those skinny little legs can withstand!! I will entertain further studies with landscape in oils and will continue to paint this animal's quirky character and amazing strength and posture. The camel conjures up all kinds of memories for me, mostly spiritual with my catholic upbringing. It allows me to muse on the potential of the journey; be it symbolic or one of strength. A vagabond in it's own right, open to roam freely with the spirit of countless gifted passenger's!!

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

The Painted Horse


This painting was taken from a quick inspirational photo I found. The contrast of the markings on the horse captured my attention, as did the flowing mane and soft chestnut hair. The placement of the mouth may be a little low for the composition but I like the addition of the landscape suggested on top with a high horizon and sky line! I feel him moving downward toward the foreground of the painting!! As I see it, painting the "Painted Horse" was sheer delight.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Animal lovers and Painting Animals





















This is my first painting of a dog ever. Tucker was a special border collie my daughter and her boyfriend Zach brought home last year. His sudden death motivated me to paint a lasting memory of his life! He was bold, clever, obsessive and very playful. My husband had an immediate affection for him and soon after everyone loved Tucker. This painting was a catharsis for me, a release of sad emotion and a sense of loss. I felt empowered painting this beautiful pose of this very unique breed of dog. He still had puppy fur and barely broken in pink paws. His spirit will forever live on in all of us. Hopefully Tucker and this painting has inspired me to paint more animals. Animal lovers are special people, they don't ask much from their pets but unconditional love is always given between these two species. Carry on Tucker, I will continue to think about painting more and different kinds of animals. A big warm thank you goes out to my dear friends Elizabeth and Eileen. Butch and I will always remember how much you both did for us on that difficult day!