Under Construction

I have never been good at drawing buildings, and when it comes to painting them, I’m even worse. I struggled … More

How Art Speaks

“Concept is the reason that you’re painting the painting. It is the idea that you wish to convey to the … More

The Eye — and Mind — of the Beholder

We’ve all heard the adage that beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. True, indeed, but may I add … More

May I Have Your Attention, Please?

There is a very long story behind this painting, much too long to recount here. Suffice it to say that … More

Johannes Vermeer: So Much Mystery

One of the artists whose work I’ve studied recently is Dutch painter, Johannes Vermeer. Little is known of his life, … More

The “Plane” Truth

I hesitate to speak much of truth when it comes to art. There really are no absolutes. We have guidelines to follow … More

Picking My Palette

One of the most valuable practice exercises I’ve done lately had little to do with actual painting, but a lot to … More

Sienna Ridge

Practice. Exercises. Studies. These are all words and concepts I’m familiar with as a pianist, and I’ve found they have … More

The Great Mysteries of Art

I’ve always loved reading stories about art sleuths. You know, those dedicated individuals who track down stolen paintings or other … More

Sketchbooks are for Sketching

I’ve often recounted the story of buying my first sketchbook, how odd it felt to walk through the art supply … More

Painting with Intent

Earlier this morning — I’ve been up since about 3:30 AM — I put the finishing touches on a new … More

Nocturnes

Next Monday evening is our Fine Arts Association meeting, and I’ll be in attendance. I enjoy the monthly meetings although … More

Scribbles

I am a believer in basics. No matter how proficient we may become in a skill, it’s always helpful to … More

What Else Would You Like to Do?

While recuperating, the closest I actually came to doing any art was to grab a sketchbook one day and doodle a bit. I actually spent more time playing with my kneaded eraser, however, than actually sketching anything.

Chiaroscuro

I’ve been working on chiaroscuro drawings, using graphite and shading techniques to create form.

What Does It Mean to be an Artist?

Anyone can learn the proper techniques to follow in art, but that alone does not make one an artist.

Woodland Strolls

Yesterday, I challenged myself to create another woodland scene  — and to do it in a small-scale format. It was the first time I’ve tried painting on a 5 x 7 inch panel, and it was a challenge, indeed.

Twilight Frost at the Old Creek

Being “an artist” involves much more than learning how to apply a medium to a support/surface. It requires a certain sort of vision, an ability to use one’s imagination, and a creative spirit.

To Paint or Not to Paint…?

It’s good, of course, to be so enthusiastic about a particular medium, but it’s also occurred to me that maybe there’s a downside to having finally “found my niche” in the art world.

Skipping School

Teaching myself means I have choices…but how far does that freedom extend?