Fishes or Brushes

Fishes or Brushes   oil/canvas   14 x 11 x .5

 After one has been drawing and painting for a while, the notion of transparency arises....the background seen behind the object, the shape of the object, the material of which the object is made and yes, the lighting as well.  All of these factors came together for me as I painted this set up at the art center where I teach, right down the overhead fluorescent lighting tubes.  I have always found the distortions intriguing...a simple-yet-complex idea.  Paint the confusion.  Paint what you see not what you know.

And while I have been tempted to buy some gold fish for the sake of painting them, the responsibility seems daunting and I am content to house art supplies therein.

Opinions

Opinions   watercolor   12 x 9

While at the art center where I teach, I was struck by the simple beauty of some aluminum cans that were stacked up in the kitchen.  (The art center uses these for the plastic utensils) These cans, along with many of the things we use, are manufactured for one use, then recycled....into other ones, I hope.  I felt that one of these cans would make a perfect receptacle for a couple of very full valentine roses.  These two blooms are both so lovely and so complex, yet each calls for its own space.  Much like opinions, I think.  Individual relationships are beautiful and, yes, complex, and the loving ones allow for differing opinions and much discourse.

My husband and I are in the process of a kitchen makeover.  We love each other beyond measure.  But our opinions on so many small details differ:  on the materials to be used, on the placement of components, and, yes, on the cupboard handles as well.

What better metaphor for a home improvement?

Tutu

Tutu   watercolor pencil and walnut ink   19.75 x 12

The collaboration between Cuyahoga Valley Art Center and Ballet Excel Ohio has provided live models in the way of young dancers once a week for some time now.  I eagerly look forward to each session.  This series has provided the opportunity for experimentation...to use some of the forgotten drawing tools in my art box. 

I started with a half-sheet of Strathmore Aquarius II watercolor paper.  This sheet has many uses in that it is partially synthetic, thin and will not buckle.  During the entire 2 1/2 session, I used Derwent watercolor sketching pencils in light wash, medium and dark, alternating drawing with broad washes of water during the breaks.  At home, some washes of walnut ink completed the work.  For me, the challenge involved the pushing and pulling of strokes to reveal what is more important to the pose; and, conversely the less important. For this reason, I have always had such a difficulty with chairs and stools, as I realize the importance of having a support for the pose, yet despise the weight given to it.

This model wore the traditional tutu, hence the title.  I am pleased.

Tiny Dancer

Little Mermaid   charcoal, conte and gold leaf on toned paper   21.5 x 14

It has been so much fun to paint and draw from a live model again!  Due to the fine efforts of Cuyahoga Valley Art Center Center's new director Danielle Dieterich, young dancers from Ballet Excel OhioExcel Ohio have been modelling each Tuesday evening and will continue for some time.  We artists, mostly older, are treated to the movements and costumes of these young dancers. 

"Little Mermaid" was drawn in charcoal and conte crayon on a toned paper.  Gold leaf pieces were added later.  I had actually hoped for more covering on its application, but due to the fact that the adhesive was mostly dried up, and the high humidity, a more mottled effect was the result.  But I am happy. 

This pose, subtle yet powerful, is, I believe the result of a strong core and a slight curving of the small of the back.  I appreciate the strength and willpower of this young dancer!

Opportunities...

Susan's Sunflowers   watercolor   13.75 x 10

present themselves constantly in our lives if and when we are paying attention.  Painting to the season is something I enjoy particularly.  Although I don't often paint flowers, and, in fact, don't really enjoy floral paintings, I am drawn to sunflowers and their majestic presence in mid-July.  We had a few this year and I had every intention of spending a day on them and had already toned a vertical canvas.  But obligations of other sorts consumed my time.  When I was ready, they were done.  Oh well.  There is always next year.  I painted "Susan's Sunflowers" in watercolor last year during a demonstration at Cuyahoga Valley Art Center.  My friend and colleague Susan Mencini had brought this beautiful bouquet.  My own set up was decidedly inferior, so I looked on at what she had brought.  Thank you, Susan.

Love your community art center today...

October Hydrangea   watercolor   9.25 x 13.5

Community art centers are such a valuable asset to all communities.  They offer opportunities for intellectual and artistic growth, as well as providing like-minded creative people to spend time together and to learn together.  Unfortunately, the art centers are struggling and need our support....just like the artists who frequent them.  The "Faculty and Student Exhibition" is currently on exhibit in Cuyahoga Falls....that is where I teach.  Three of the artists in my Monday evening class have received awards:  Norma Ott, First Place and both Mo Mosyjowski and Candy Bennington received Honorable Mentions.  I am pleased as punch!  The faculty exhibit is not judged.  Our entries were to have been works that were done within the constructs of the classes.  Can do.  "October Hydrangea" is one of my entries.  

The Cuyahoga Valley Art Center is located on the Front Street Mall in Cuyahoga Falls.  Try something new.....browse....sign up for classes.....visit their gift shop......love your art center.