Plein Air Painting Journal

Complementary Arrangement

2012-01-29T16:39:00.000-06:00

Complementary Arrangement, 18x18, Oil.

Occasionally I like to stay inside and take my time with a still life study. Thus this one. After observing a portrait demonstration at Art Study Club, I darted into the florist and rescued these two from a cold dark cooler. They've had a nice time in the studio, sharing vibes for nearly 2 weeks, are passed their prime but will live on in paint. If you would like to own this painting, I'd be happy to ship it out before it hits the gallery wall.

Creative Thinking

2012-01-23T19:21:00.000-06:00

Happy Loner, 12x16, Oil.

Some days the hardest part is simply choosing what to paint. Then how to make an impression without coming out and talking about every leaf you see. There was a lot going on in this backyard- a great variety of plant life, metal sculptures, glass yard ornaments. To make one statement took concise editing.

Vada (in the foreground above) is 86 years young and usually set up and well underway while I'm still "composing" through my camera lens. This was a while ago, on the warmest of summer days. Just Friday we had the opposite problem, as we looked out onto a very grey Pensacola Bay and failed to see anything to paint about. We landed back down at the Marina and painted boats.

This second video was sent to me today, and has me appreciating the capabilities of a creative mind, the ability to make something where there was nothing, to find beauty, to imagine it, to arrange it, to amuse oneself in the process of problem solving. At age 9, my grandson Evan with a little keyboard know-how, is now a Songwriter! There are so many more songs and paintings to compose, provided we don't allow our minds to set confines but rather allow them to discover a stimulus for creating.

Paintin' and Dreamin'

2012-01-17T16:35:00.000-06:00

Navy Point, 11x14, Oil on Linen.

Hopefully a painting has the ability to take you to another place. Also, a plein air study should retain a slice of the atmosphere in which it was created. Here's a 30 second clip of my real world - paintin' and dreamin'. Nature plays "impressionistic" music of it's own. Though while out, sometimes I listen to my customized Pandora Radio stations via my Android. Music helps me drift into the "zone". It just makes everything better. For me, trying to See... without Hearing also- dare I say it, "like a day without Sunshine".

Beach, All to Myself

2012-01-11T13:13:00.005-06:00

"Beach, All to Myself", 16x20, Oil on Linen.

There were in fact people at the beach this day. Seven of us painters enjoyed the open air and our choice of fresh-catch by the pool at Margaritaville. It was early November, my first time exploring Jimmy Buffet's new resort, and my new friend Dawn Kinney Martin was visiting for the Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival. Her and I went for a second round (of painting that is). We took our little party down to the Pensacola Beach Pier (seen in the distance, below). That was our mid-day painting, #2 of 3 that day. Actually, this canvas returned home as only a boring basic-layout. Debating rather to add a surfer, I am confident now that the surface is lively enough. It maintained a drift-off-feeling, sitting by the shore, observing, and letting it take you away.

Sherrie McGraw, "the Visual Idea"

2011-12-29T18:20:00.004-06:00

If you're like me, you like seeing new places, meeting new people, and learning from their perspective. This most amazing still life that my eyes have ever witnessed, seemed almost a casual by-product of the artistic soul of Sherrie McGraw, as she shared with us her motivations, thoughts, experience. Once a student of David Leffel, now an excellent teacher herself, she poses the question of "visual idea". "What are you going for?" Then how simply she states the quest: "We're always, always looking for stuff that makes the painting better".
I have combined my still pics and video clips from her class at "Week End with the Masters" in Monterey. As I entered the room and saw her setting up this still life with meticulous forethought, I knew I was in for a treat. Enjoy ~~~

I suggest you click over to YouTube for the Big Screen view.

Solace at the University

2011-12-21T14:59:00.001-06:00

"Solace at the University", 11x14, Oil. Painted on campus of University of West Florida.

This painting is another one from way-back-when, (4-'09) that I have added to my current show. Filling gaps of some that have sold is a very good thing to have to do! Happy Holidays to you all, and don't forget to Buy More Art!
I know, that was a commercial announcement, and that's not the true meaning of Christmas. When it comes to gifts- "the greatest of these is LOVE". How does God work out his gift-giving? All from the same store-house, the "Spirit". "Different Kinds". "And He distributes them to Each one, just as he determines." His #1, top-of-the-list gift: Love. You having the capability to love, that is a Gift!

Location! and thoughts thereabouts

2011-12-14T00:34:00.001-06:00

Location! [Sold] 12x12, Oil, alla-prima.

Post 'vacation' in a wintery-frozen landscape, I'm now back to my beloved warm sand and palm trees. Today I'm selecting from the archives. About 5 years ago, of my first few, "Location" was my first local landscape to sell from Eastern Shore Art Center, Fairhope. As I was just learning to play with the palette knife, I discovered a freedom that is not easily acquired with a brush. I like the variety of paint application: sometimes thick, occasional scratched-out palms, and the scumbled powdery sand. I remember my sister inquiring about the coral spots, my bright undertones. I think it adds electricity, a warm glow that I didn't want to cover up. So I didn't. Plus I added a little sample of the Gulf over the hill to get you moving.

Extra thoughts, notes scribbled at Carolyn Anderson's workshop, Weekend with the Masters 2011:

"If my work does not surprise me, how can I expect it to wow and dazzle anyone else."

"We evaluate information by what we like."

"Your brain determines what you see."

"Hopefully as artists, we can organize info in a more interesting, unpredictable way."

"dynamic tension --- created by shapes"

"assess transitions"

"learn to evaluate in visual ways."

"variations of the same language"

"reality and what you want it to be: two different things."

"the process creates the information --- painting is a process."

"the principle of local color - your worst enemy."

"negative and positive shapes combined"

"Put down what you think is interesting."

"Push light and shadow to say what's important to you."

"a painting that moves ~~~ on the cusp of a movement!"

"I have to go someplace I haven't been before; have to be open to doing something I haven't done before." (She doesn't try to visualize the finished painting and sees that as not risking, control.)

The Point

2011-12-02T09:13:00.001-06:00

The Point, SOLD, 14x18, Oil.

My point of interest? - The little passageway where the palms are clustered near the shore and the water transitions into sky. Within the components of composition, the beauty is in the relationship. Placement of focus and horizon are paramount choices a landscape painter must make to sets up the "visual story", place emphasis.
This painting might be seen as ruff around the edges, or unfinished. There is a certain ruffled surface tension that I didn't want to destroy, so my only "homework" was to sign and frame it.

Getting Off Time

2011-11-28T13:53:00.004-06:00

"Getting Off Time", 11x14, Oil

This sunset was our conclusion to an adventurous day of painting. Number 3 of 3, which is my record. While Dawn Martin was in town for the Great Gulf Coast Art Festival, she contacted our group for some painting company, thanks to a fellow blogger's suggestion. (Thanks Rose Marie!) After two at the beach and lunch at Margaritaville, we followed the light to the edge of Big Lagoon. This was someone's backyard view before Ivan took everything but the tile floor and foundation. I'm glad all the neighborhood no-see-ums decided to take up residence on this vacant lot, though at the time it was a persistent bug battle, till packing up- "I wonder how long, from start to finish?". "Check your phone, you're sister called." "Oh, yeah, 23 minutes ago." A quick study. Then we were off, to my place, porch-time, observe the moon trajectory begin again.

Thankful for Opportunity, Time, Paint

2011-11-21T14:33:00.002-06:00

Mediterranean Porch

This one is going way far back in my artistic time machine. About 25 years ago... in South Miami, with my girl in 1st grade, I got brave and decided to put an ad in the paper to teach painting. The little detached room and bath by the pool, was the perfect studio. With a round table, tabletop easels, acrylic paint, canvas panels and brushes, I set up shop and the classes filled. This large painting was my little escape, something to work on in my free time.

It has remained part of my own decor. Now with art show paintings rotating in and out of the house, I decided to let it participate. It's on holiday, and yes, it is for sale. This being a solo-show with no rules but my own, I had the freedom to mix it up- the old with the new, essentially showing the evolution of style.

Just a couple years ago, I set the lofty goal of a "Solo Show". At the time it seemed like a distant, unrealistic, speak-it-out-dream and maybe it will happen. Today as I reflect on 2011 and 2 (!!) such events for me, yes, I am blessed and grateful for the privilege to occupy my days doing what I love.

A Walk in the Park

2011-11-19T13:20:00.001-06:00

A Walk in the Park, 12x16, Oil on Linen.

A fairly good start, which put me on the path to a pretty good finish.

They don't all happen this easily, when you walk away satisfied that your canvas made a complete statement. There was a chilly wind along the coast at Big Lagoon State Park so we hiked to the interior of the park and chose this sandy path for our composition. Working "in the zone" still sharing stories, laughs, music, painting tips, love of nature, color, photography, the visual world. As our workday ended we exited the park with our large hand-painted "postcard" of the day. Of course I arrived home with extra scenes, to share....

I for one, am in favor of the neighborhood alligator's rights to swim here. But maybe I should put one of these up by my pool in case he wanders over.

"Kicking up their heels" near the campsite.

Deer prints in the sand. I suspect, the same gang that snacked on my Hibiscus.

Opening Night! and Guess Who Showed...

2011-11-13T15:22:00.000-06:00

Yes, there's nothing like seeing the big man out collecting Christmas wishes to put you in the mood. *Note: My show "Places without Time" will hang through the end of the year in "downtown" Foley, Alabama. A fun stop on your way to the Outlet Mall: Foley Art Center!

When I was presented with the idea of filling this huge wall with entirely my work, the challenge provoked me to start some larger canvases, which I had been wanting to do. I am happy with the way "Bluegrass Vision" serves to anchor the mostly plein air work. The show is off to a great start, I've filled the gaps of the sold ones. Including one in the window, you still have 40 to choose from.

I had new friends that came, new painting buddies, old painting buddies, even the Mayor!

To share individually about some of the work like "Mediterranean Porch" which made it's public debut after 25 years in my home. Well, that's another post.

Thanks to all my readers! I enjoy hearing from you, and sharing with you!

"Bluegrass Vision" painting progression

2011-11-12T14:09:00.000-06:00

Bluegrass Vision, 30x40, Oil, $1,200.

A Kentucky girl, I watch the Derby each May. This year I decided to try and capture the grace, color, and thrill of the race. I photographed it from "live" TV, then chose this shot to composed my painting from.

I hope you enjoy this little visit to my studio, taped during the progression of my "Bluegrass Vision". There is a building process, from laying in the background with large house-paint brush, through forming the structures, the horses, jockeys, silks. I try to let the painting emerge in unison. Yet, clearly keep my intended focus sharper than the rest.
Check out my other little visitor:

Joel, do you know if someone was in my studio, while I went to the airport?

~umm... ?

I wonder how those extra marks got there??

"I did it, with my fingers!"

And, they were such nice marks! I kept them as long as I could. Finally covered them a bit, before the painting went to show.

As the Flag Waves

2011-11-07T10:48:00.000-06:00

As the Flag Waves, 11x14, Oil.

Available at my "Places without Time" show, Foley Art Center, AL, through December.

Previously I have painted boats from this pier. This time I sat up at the far end, and went for a view including the flag that waves consistently to all who travel Main Street by Joe Patti's. I got a couple extra paintings in while Craig Reynolds was here to Judge our Art Study Club Show. He was looking to paint "boats with character", so we landed here. A lunch of seafood was a forgone conclusion. Amidst picking up work from the plein air show that ended, and calling all the winners of the Fair show, I enjoyed painting till the sun went down and I could no longer distinguish what color I was mixing.

"Welcome" to Bagdad, in Florida

2011-11-04T13:34:00.006-05:00

"Welcome", 14x18, Oil, Sold

This one sold yesterday, along with two others from my solo-show "Places without Time". As I was busy in the gallery tagging my 39 paintings, I noticed visitors pointing out a bridge in one of my paintings. One man in particular seemed interested to know where they were all painted from. He came back the next day and bought three, including "Grand Hotel, Mobile Bay" and "The Old Parking Place" with bridge view.

This one was done entirely on location in August, when it was almost too hot, even for me to paint out. I packed up just before a huge thunder and hail storm assaulted me & my convertible.

Historic Bagdad (cir. 1842) and The Dragonfly Gallery, in Milton, hosted a Plein Air Paint-Out a couple weeks ago. I sat up directly across the street from the church, and tried again to capture the quaint street scene. I do like the flag.

All of us were proud of Jane (far left) especially after she told us that her painting that won an award was her first to ever be framed and publicly displayed.

A gentleman who had never painted with us emerged from the cemetery with this Best of Show. Which reminds me, I started a 16x20 there a few years ago and never finished.

David Leffel, Exploring the Possibilities of Paint

2011-10-24T10:43:00.007-05:00

I was not privileged to attend the Art Students League of New York, or have the influence of great instructors such as David Leffel. During my 4 days of workshops at "Week End with the Masters" I was making up for lost time. In his class especially, I felt I was in the presence of greatness, many years of wisdom accumulated with brush in hand "exploring the possibilities of paint". Not that I aspire to paint in his style or even in the same genres- portrait and still life. He began with painting the form of an egg, then flipped the canvas vertically and turned it into a person's head (without looking at a subject, just knowing). I sat upfront, overlooking the glare on the surface of his demonstration. Even the paint application bowed to his explanations, reasoning, the whys, his description of edges as the soul of the painting. I kept pushing that record button to relive it when I need a creative fix and to share it with you... relax and enjoy. He sums up what I was feeling when he says: "I learned that from Rembrandt".

His class intro video is also on Youtube. Link here for more on David.

First Place... ~Gulf Breeze~ !!

2011-10-19T14:43:00.000-05:00

"Gulf Breeze" 14x18, Oil.

Meet my new Prize Winner! "Gulf Breeze"- 1st Place in the Art Study Club Fall Show! Many of Pensacola's finest artists are members of this long-standing club (est. 1957). I'm honored to be among them.

On a breezy day back in April this painting was conceived in yep, Gulf Breeze, Florida. That particular boat continued to attract my glance through the window as our group shared lunch.

Craig Reynolds from Gadsden, Alabama was our Honorable Judge. He was good about explaining the strengths of the 77 artworks he chose from. A portrait won "Best of Show".

He likes to paint en plein air. So naturally, he could be spotted out in the open-air while along the coast.

Pensacola Plein Air Show

2011-10-01T13:28:00.001-05:00

We interrupt our coverage of Weekend with the Masters to bring you this local announcement. The Plein Air Show of Pensacola is up-and-running at the Wright Place. Our annual event marks my 5th year with this community of artists, so, an anniversary of sorts. It's great to be a part of this non-competitive group, We are each in a contest with ourselves.

For the 3rd year, I've helped Fred hang the show. That's a skill I wouldn't have thought about learning, but it's quite a balancing act. Speaking of learning, would you believe Terry (far left, by Fred) is working on his 3rd or 4th degree, this time in Fine Art at Univ. of West Florida! Some people's zest just seems to increase with age. There's the young, and the forever restless. Hazel bounced right back after selling me her easel. That's her, right front, in the blue, cerulean blue, beside Betty in the zebra stripes. (They are two of the Best painters in Quayside Gallery, in my humble non-judgemental opinion.)

As artist's we have to constantly judge our own work, until every work is complete, and every show-able piece is framed. (pictured below- "Morning Greens" and "Lapis in Gold Setting")

"Safe Harbor" made the cut, but only after lightening the sand and some re-roofing.

Two web/blog links of local friends:
Terry Sutherlands Windows without Walls (his "Playground of Paint and Canvas", "samples since 1965".
Janie's website (the youngest)

Weekend with the Masters

2011-09-24T14:23:00.000-05:00

At American Artist's Weekend with the Masters in Monterey, California, I took a few shots for you. In this evening event Richard Schmid begins his painting demo with a fun quickie as Alexey appears to pour drinks from a "natural Turpenoid" gallon jug. The big screen made the Conference Center seem like an intimate setting, as we watched strokes of paint become a portrait, and listened to dialogue of thoughts that form philosophy.

Specifically Pacific

2011-09-14T20:30:00.003-05:00

Carmel, California!!! I gotta tell ya, it was so exhilarating for me to get to go someplace new, to be experiencing the terrain of the Pacific coast, that I could barely paint. Unlike my last post, where I returned to the same location, I was well aware that this day could never be repeated. Probably a one-time event that I tried to absorb enough to last a lifetime, should I never return.

I had taken in SO much during the previous days of American Artist Weekend with the Masters. After my first two color studies this last day, I just had to break loose and paint intuitively, with no regard to: Should that shadow be warmer or cooler? I finally got slap-happy with paint, and that one is my favorite.

Today I got this text: [baby Joel says, "I gotta go potty" and Runs to the bathroom --- but he forgot to pull his pants down! Sara says, "Really, he couldn't figure that one out"! Lol."] I wasn't ~That~ bad, but I could relate. "Sometimes you get too Excited to Think!"

(To enjoy the slide show, click "Watch on YouTube" bottom right, then Full Size it.)
Music credits: Ramey Hughes- singer, songwriter. "His Love" on cd- This World is not my Home.

Navy Point

2011-09-02T16:56:00.000-05:00

"One Strong Tree", 12x16, Oil.

I think I'll call this "One Strong Tree", knowing how much of this neighborhood was taken out by Hurricane Ivan. Though, in fact, it is sort of a uniting of two trees about a half-a-mile apart. We often return to paint at the same location. This canvas is a merging of both March and July paint-days along the Navy Point Park and Bayou Grande.
In the first episode I was thrilled to spot the dolphins, signaling the oil spill tragedy was passing. But, as for my painting, don't ask me what I was thinking at the time. I broke the first rule I taught years ago. I got carried away with the tree form before laying in the sky.
Then when I returned with the same canvas, in a new season, it was a different tree that shouted out to me. And even so, somehow the painting caught up with the feeling of the tree down the road. I'm satisfied that it portrays a place rather than a single day.

Where the House Use to Be

2011-08-25T15:45:00.000-05:00

"Where the House Use to Be", 11x14, Oil.

Admittedly the purple wisteria was an afterthought. The painting wasn't working for me so I planted it after I got home. I took down a tree as well, in order to bring the focus back to the foreground.
It was the flood of light across this empty lot that invited my attention. Especially these two pillars of stone that stand as the lone survivors of someone's hurricane devastation.
The rest of this journal entry doesn't relate to the unknown owners of this vacated lot, but my mom. A few weeks ago she came to visit. Just after returning home, her house burnt down. Neighbors saw the flames and alerted them to get out. ---- Now here they are, this late in life, deciding to break up the old foundation and start anew. Lots of fortitude in that couple (he's 87!) I hope the building crews don't wreck her yard. Among other artistic endeavors, she can grow a beautiful garden. She is in North Carolina, where I pray all my friends along the coast stay safe from this week-end's storm threat.

Shore Break

2011-08-18T18:16:00.000-05:00

Shore Break, 11x14, Oil. Looking back, I'm glad I took easel to the beach before he retired. We've seen some places together, but haven't had our toes in the sand of this National Seashore nearly enough to suit me. After my plein-air friends called it a "rain-out" at the park, we were headed along Gulf Beach Highway when the deluge ended. Why go home? All packed up with no place to paint, (then Easel said: Let's go to the beach, just you and me.)

A fully loaded palette- because you never know what kind of day you'll be depicting.

Behind me I could see it was still raining in town, but the western skies across the Gulf were blue. Which adds a twist of complication to the color study teachings in "Hensche on Painting". To first determine the light key of nature- observe: Is it a gray day or sunny day? Each painting is a new set of visual perception problems, and my envelope of atmosphere is not always clearly discernible. I like this quote: "A painter is a teacher who helps others see the beauty of the world".

When the Color d'jour Updates Radically

2011-08-11T21:16:00.004-05:00

"Stormy Weather" 9x12 Oil.

We all marveled that it was dry and under sunny skies when we got to Hazel's, because as soon as we finished breakfast at "A Wing and a Prayer" it began to rain, for the second week in a row! It was a good day to have a covered area to work under. I enjoyed seeing her great studio, and also using my new acquisition: this EASyL. Bittersweet though, I'd been wanting a tripod style easel, but sad to realize her doubts of being able to get out and use it again. Sort of felt like it was my first day on the job as the others helped me set it up. Then the difficult work began- choosing a light key, as we observed the transitions.

As we wrestled with our color notes, the sky grew darker than the water, which then became a hushed green. Meanwhile this dog never stopped enjoying his day out on that little island, glad no one called a "rain day" on his swim party.

And then the other night... As I set out to do an evening sky study, I was just observing the pinks over to the west, when--- in the next glance- THIS:::: showed up!

[Sudden Weather Update] sans weather man, giving a 2 minute warning, or else''':''::"";""::":":'';'';;':'';

Artful Fellowship

2011-08-04T12:35:00.000-05:00

"A View with Roses", 8x10, Oil.

I'm flashing-back to share a day of artful fellowship among a group of painters invited to a paint-out in northern Alabama. The evening event landed us at the home of gracious art patrons. A young orchestra serenaded us as we studied to capture our chosen view. It felt a bit funny being treated like royalty after a full day of working outside; but there we were, like-minds enjoying new scenery.

The analytical artist in me always likes to select. This little group of sheep was my personal favorite of their art collection.

Neighbor's View

2011-07-20T11:14:00.002-05:00

"Neighbor's View", 11x14, Oil.

A quick impressionistic study, that I think I like that way. The gnarly gesture of the tree was my original intent. I also like how the light path seems to lead beyond the roses to the undefined.

My current process- I start with brushes then build up details with knife.

From this same property, the previous week I painted "Mimosa on Scenic Hwy". That was a scorcher of a day! On this one, it began to drizzle just as I took the neighbor up on her offer to actually come on to the property I'd been so close to. (My set-up is barely visible, to the left of the round tree.) So I got to see her beautiful Pensacola Bay view from the deck around the Oak tree I'd been admiring; her landscaping, fountain, bird sculptures, water lilies! The further I wandered, the more paintable it got.

Chopped Melon

2011-07-12T18:46:00.002-05:00

"Chopped Melon" 12X12, Oil on Gallery-wrap-canvas.

It's the season here, for yummy melon and AA- that's Alla-prima in Air conditioning. So here's another studio-action flick with no other than Pheboe Snow on backing vocals. "Ew-yeah"! (the chopped version) was filmed before a previously live melon.

ps. ~fashion tip of the day~ How to put a sweater to good use in Florida... use it for a back-drop.

A Summer Affair with Color

2011-07-05T12:55:00.001-05:00

Poolside Variety, 24x30, Oil. Showing at Pensacola Museum of Art.

It really began at the garden center, the first time they caught my eye, then the back porch, in and out of the studio. Then Friday night was very special- the debut at the Museum of Art!

I have enjoyed them dancing in the breeze, in the morning light, under the cool of evening. If pure color can inspire, they have done it for me.

I'm always grabbing the camera. So if you have 8 minutes to spare and want to watch the progression--- notice, the variety of color mixtures. First the orangey-scarlet...blue-purples...lavender-violets...and rosey-fushia tones, as I work in the petunia pots counter clockwise.

When Brushstrokes Fall Into Place

2011-06-27T15:19:00.001-05:00

Mimosa on Scenic Hwy, 14x18, Oil. Showing at Pensacola Museum of Art.

By no stretch is this a masterpiece, even by personal standards. Yet there are some contented things about it. #1- It fell into place entirely on site; I didn't have to fix or adjust it afterwards. #2- I needed a second work, not previously shown locally, to enter in the Pensacola Museum of Art Juried Show. A risky chance, I threw this one into the ring, and it was accepted!! It debuts at Friday night's Opening Reception! Stop by if you're in the area. #3- I like how the light patches form a rhythmic quality.

I mentioned to Rob, a fellow painter, that I wished I knew someone who live along Scenic Highway, so we could paint there. Turns out- he lives right across the street and invited us over. At first it was the mimosa tree by the road that caught my eye. Then I spied this distant land/building/water combo. After I saw it from the perspective I finally chose, all I had to do was make that Mimosa at the top of the hill bloom, combining the best of both worlds, a merging of thoughts. So, that also, I like- It's improvised. It speaks beyond what was visible. It was sort of pieced together, with the patches falling into place.

Add umbrella = disaster

2011-06-19T14:13:00.000-05:00

Country Club at Closing Time, 11x14, Oil.

In an *ideal* situation, as you start your second painting of the day, you are in the shade, or at least your canvas is not in specked light. So it seemed like the perfect time to try out the "umbrella plan"- simply screw the umbrella into the pre-bolted fitting and life's a breeze~~~! And then it happened! That first gust~ took my so-ready-to-paint palette and flipped it face-down... At The Country Club!

It couldn't have been on a country road or grassy meadow. No, I left my colorful imprint down by the putting greens. I poured turp and sand on it, but we'll see just how light-fast pigments can be. If you're ever golfing down around there, let me know if you spy it.

"Quick Draw"

2011-06-17T16:26:00.002-05:00

Roses and Pansies, 11x14, Oil. Sold.

The city of Gadsden kept us moving, busy making art; also, well fed. Between this painting and the one in my last Journal entry, lunch was graciously provided, southern style out on the porch, only a few doors away. We met great neighbors, shared a welcomed shade break, talk about the tornado, and chatter about the Pres. flying in to check out the damage. Then it was "Quick Draw", a timed competition. Before the horn blew that signaled "go", I decided the simplest thing to do was stay at that location, so I flipped my easel and went for a more intimate view.

The pleasure of being a painter, the fellowship of artists, experiencing new scenes, art receptions, awards and Sold tags- these are the glories! So I won't mention the struggles, how I kept moving to try and stay in the shade of this historic marker, and how the front leg of my easel collapsed, and how I had to set back up and repair a scraped painting before the "race" was over, and how tired my palette was after our final night out.

"Wet Paint Auction"

2011-06-13T20:54:00.003-05:00

Wall of Roses, 16x20, Oil. SOLD.

On the last day of the S.E. Plein Air Invitational, we painted in the historic homes area of Gadsden. After painting two at this location, then framing them for the Museum show, it was time for the grand finaly, the "Wet Paint Auction". Here is half of the gang, there were 15 artist invited. I was thrilled that this painting- "Wall of Roses", was purchased by the Museum Exhibit Director.

Mother's Day Bunch

2011-06-08T11:05:00.001-05:00

Mother's Day Bunch, 18x18, Oil, SOLD.

Inspired by a surprise box of Mother's Day Flower's delivered to my door, and painted with someone in mind. This was my freshly painted offering for my daughter's India Adoption Benefit.

I must have been in a real "photography" mood as I painted this. So I've got you a video and a slideshow. Have you ever noticed when there's no kids around you are liable to take pictures of lizards or reflections or just about anything? Anyway, welcome to my studio, where you can see a painting in progress. We can call it a still life, but tulips like to change positions, also they are not long lasting. I began from life, but resorted to an image on computer monitor to complete the painting. Modern painters have options.

Wisteria Lane

2011-06-02T12:50:00.002-05:00

"Wisteria Lane", 11x14, Oil. SOLD.

In early Spring, when Wisteria goes wild, I always find it a fascinating subject. It is delicate, but it's not shy; it climbs, and drapes, and drips off anything it finds. I mentioned to Kay, I was on a hunt for a good place to paint some. Next news ya know- she spotted these spectacular, fully-loaded bushes, rang the bell, met a nice Dr. and his wife, and my wish was granted!

My daughter came up with this title. If in fact, I watched that show she is referencing, only once and I made her swear not to tell. Yeah, she is also the one who suggested I do up a bumper-sticker- "Plein Air Painters do it outside".
Seriously though, here she is at the "India Adoption Benefit Concert and Auction" with our friends and art-collectors who both also are mothering children who are not theirs by birth. Their church in Houston is so very generous, even her kid's paintings were going for $300.!

Gabe titled his "Martin the Tree". I like that he wanted to put two kinds of fruit on his tree- so multicultural.

A Worthy Cause

2011-05-30T16:04:00.000-05:00

"Stargazers", 11x14, Oil. Sold.
Time marches on...! My live model for this- a stem of stargazer lilies that I picked up from the florist a few years ago, before I was a blogging plein-air painter, back when I had one grand-baby. This week-end I was thrilled to be a part of a Benefit Concert and Auction that provided the funds for an orphaned baby girl in India to be adopted by my daughter and her husband. Ten of my original oil paintings and a few prints found a happy home in the process.
Pictured are my great kids- Sara, and Noah with his girl (my g-baby #4) who won't be the baby for long, as soon as Sara & Johnny get traveling expenses to India. Oh yeah, the big draw was Johnny's concert! He is a Great singer, he and his buddies are writing some songs... so stay tuned for that cd.

Happy Beach Day!

2011-05-20T14:18:00.002-05:00

Happy Beach Day! 12x12, Oil on gallery-wrap canvas. Sold.

I "had to work" on my birthday! At least I got to pick where. And now that I'm all done blogging, I think I'll take off early and pick a lunch spot.

From Atop the Mountain

2011-05-13T16:59:00.001-05:00

"Hummingbird Ridge" 12x16 Oil.

You know, at the Plein Air Festival in Alabama I was enjoying the mountain views, because I don't get that around here in Florida. This was my third painting of the day from various levels of this mountain ridge that rises above Rainbow Landing park. Just off to my right in this photo is where the tornado swept through the night before as I slept off the power outage at the "comfort suite".

When I got to the top of the mountain I was surprised by the musical accompaniment, Katrina's husband playing the fiddle. Then he read to her while she painted.

Two more really cool people I met that day. Not only did they and their grandpa direct me to the awesome vista at the top of the ridge, but they are also the first people to ever ask me for my autograph!!

On the Golf Course, Painting the Greens

2011-05-04T18:16:00.002-05:00

"Morning Greens" (11x14)

This was my first of ten paintings turned in last week during the Plein Air Invitational. We started our work week at the Gadsden Country Club, Easel and me in a golf cart, that was a first. We were attracted to this spot by the tennis courts; it had a lead-in path, a great sloping lay-of-land, nice range of distance, water with reflections! It had it all. I was just hoping I wasn't going to say too much.

I went to work... in my peaceful trance. Eventually the songs of birds gave way to the gentle thud of tennis balls. The players assembled and the discussion ensued. It was the day after; the day after Easter Sunday. The hot topic was: "What did you think about the dancing in church?" A couple of times I tossed back a ball for them, kept working, still trying not to say too much.

Between cruising around on my Harley, I lunched in the excellent company of wonderful artists and blog-friends Robin Roberts and Becky Joy. It was fun to get to know the personalities of painters that previously I only knew by their works. I was honored to be invited to share the week with such talent as the young Russian painter, Dmitry Proshkin. He goes against the norm, and works on very large canvases en plein-air.

Alabama on Wednesday a.m.

2011-05-02T18:29:00.000-05:00

Cafe on Broad, 12x12, Oil.

Wednesday in Alabama, I raced the wind, fighting against sprinkles to finish this Cafe sidewalk scene in Gadsden, as passers engaged in the countdown to the storm on the horizon.

The white building across the street is the Gadsden Museum of Art. After lunch there with the group of other painters invited to the Southeastern Plein Air Festival, I sought shelter (and siesta) at my graciously provided hotel. During story-time the next day, I heard tales of those who got to know each other in the vault at the museum during the tornado warnings. I did not notice it at the time, but like the sign in the window (below) says: "Life is Full of Unexpected Events".

My heart goes out to all those whose "Sweet Home Alabama" will never be the same.

A Hill in Kentucky

2011-04-20T10:25:00.010-05:00

A Hill in Kentucky, 9x12, Oil.

My chosen scene, off to the left, was across the road from "Acres of Land Winery" in Richmond, Kentucky. During my stay with our sick cousin, my sister convinced me to de-stress and paint. Mostly I captured thoughts though my camera's eye. Giving Linda the reigns to drive my get-away car, I focused on drive-by shootings of the country side.

[Postscript: this is from last Wednesday. This morning Lanny stepped into Eternity....]

Fortified

2011-03-31T12:46:00.001-05:00

"Fortified" 11x14, Oil, (Sold). Of all the intrigue at Fort Pickens, I marched to the top of the hill and captured the simplest of scenes. Of all the parks around Pensacola, it is the kingpin. The history of these brick arches spans from pre-Civil War times, and includes tales of the Union and Confederate armies battling between island and mainland. It's walls served as a prison for the famed Indian medicine-man and warrior: Geronimo!

When Hurricane Ivan took out the road to Fort Pickens, our painting group went out by boat. The week they reopened the park, May '09, is when I laid the foundation for this painting. It's the rare instance where I took the same canvas out to work on it again. Although the season and time of day were different, the impression I set out to capture remained the same.

A surprise showed up in this boat pic. "Hey, that's Jane and the new guy down there." As I exited the park, I had stopped to admire their watercolor work.

Fresh Catch

2011-03-23T20:06:00.001-05:00

"The Nets" 11x14, Oil. It was mid-Febuary when I spotted Miss Ann and Capt. James nuzzling behind Joe Patti's Seafood. There were also a lot of pelicans nestled on the docks, basking in the sun.

Salvaging

2011-03-14T14:36:00.003-05:00

"Mingling Azaleas" 11x14, Oil, (Sold). Each painting is a new experience. One in which we don't always like the outcome. I get a better feeling from the photos I took this day than the painting. Though I'll post it anyway.

My heart goes out to all the victims of the catastrophe in Japan, the devastation they have to wake up to. Missing loved-ones, comforts ripped away with a wave, properties in shambles, landscapes destroyed, beauty now covered in mud. I pray for them- hope to hang on until the beauty returns.

The yard-artists who bought this hurricane damaged farm have created a unique garden. The grounds is a visual treat, a place where live blooms and salvaged pieces of past lives intermingle, and enjoy each other's company.

Safe Harbor

2011-03-03T18:52:00.013-06:00

Safe Harbor, 11x14, Oil
We usually paint in the morning, though this winter we switched up to take advantage of the solar heat. Rather than sharing over breakfast, we do lunch. After some of the yummiest grouper on the beach at Peg Leg Pete's, we headed out to Fort Pickens. (Notice how the afternoon shadow grew from my arrival to departure.)

With the Navy Base across the waterway and the Fort at my back, I felt pretty safe. I mean, we don't like to use our big Guns, but well, if we have to we will. You know - pirates!

Oh! Speaking of >>>Incoming>>> !!! The ~Press~ is reporting:

Local scenery painted

"Consider Jill Berry the incoming painter-laureate of local scenes, a post usually assigned to Nina Fritz. Berry is a plein-air artist and, like Fritz, her work has the strength to capture our coastal sensibility. Her 22-piece solo show is at Art Praha Galerie, 124 Palafox Place, through March 14. Exhibited salon style, her lap-sized paintings document the waterfront scenes of homes and boats. She sticks with impressionistic strokes that are most suitable for revealing the reflecting light unique to bays and bayous." Eye on Art, Mike Roberts, Pensacola News Journal.

~Pause it~

2011-02-23T16:02:00.000-06:00

"Train Trestle ~ Milton, FL" 8x10, Oil

No sooner than I sat up, the morning train came through. [pause, quick!- grab camera...save that image!]

Right on time, my value-map is all laid in, by 9:01.

Precisely 45 minuets later, it's time to pack her up and take her home.

I don't really paint under time constraints, I work in a no-time-zone. But sometimes don't you just want to push "pause" on it all, on a moment? And, in a way, that's what art does.
Once, after spending the night crossing the ocean, we stopped at the first place to get gas - Ireland. Do you know how bad I wanted to get off that smoke-filled plane to at least go pick out a postcard! There it was - Europe! The light of a European morning, but through a tired, little confining window.
Need a break? A music-break? A water-break? Let Jack take you there, this song knows all about it...

Life and Times of a work

2011-02-16T14:52:00.003-06:00

"Made in the Shade", 14x18, Oil

From selecting the scene, to selecting the frame, each work is a process. It matures, becomes part of a room...

Then one day it just moves uptown, knowing that it can return, if ever~

Opening Night! Journal of Color and Light

2011-02-06T14:02:00.004-06:00

Art Praha European Galerie, on Palafox, is in the heart of downtown Pensacola, the epicenter of Gallery Night. The honor of my "Journal of Color and Light" showing here, meant maximum exposure. I hung out with my paintings, we mingled and talked art with a thousand new faces.

The Pensacola News Journal's "Eye on Art" spotlighted the show, saying:

[Since the evening is mostly about local art, the headline show is "A Journey of Color and Light" by painter Jill Berry at Art Praha Galerie, 124 Palafox Place. Berry is a Kentuckian who moved to the area in 1998. She's mostly a plein air painter, an artist who works with easels in the outdoors. This 19-piece show focuses on her waterfront scenes.

"Inspiration for my work happens on the spot," Berry wrote. "Painting outside, I must quickly discern what most impresses me about the day, the location, and aim to capture a sense of place; preserve a moment to share with the viewer."

You can get a sneak preview by visiting her website, www.jillberryartist.com.]

Jeidy, the gallery curator, selected my 28 paintings currently on display throughout Art Praha.

At times there was a line waiting at the door to get in. But my plein air painting pals were there as I arrived.

They were also at the breakfast table about four years ago when I joined their painting group for the first time. This is not the end of our journey together, but for me: it certainly is a milestone- flyin solo!

Additional Pensacola News Journal Gallery Night overview article link:

http://www.pnj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011101280303

Preview

2011-01-23T18:55:00.003-06:00

"The Old Parking Place" 16X20, Oil, Sold.

There were spots of orange up in the tree, though my colorful motivation may have been sparked by the congregation of monarchs resting on our shores that morning down by the tracks. I wandered down the road from where the rest of the group was painting, and found this apparent party-place in view of the bridge to Gulf Breeze.

Going out with the group (above) has helped me find so many wonderful scenes to paint. Below is a sneak-peek of my show "A Journal of Color and Light". The Opening Reception is Friday- Gallery Night, but I stopped by Art Praha to get my first glimpse.

You blogger-friends have helped me too. Like in "The Bridges of Madison County" where Meryl admires Clint's photography, "These are stories, you should publish them". He is sure he doesn't have "whatever it takes that makes you look like an artist in the eyes of the world". Then she says: "Maybe you have to convince yourself first".

All You Really Need

2011-01-16T22:19:00.002-06:00

All You Really Need, 11x14, Oil on Linen.
(a roof, and a boat)

Here, on it's date of birth- in October, the painting is only a few minutes old.

I included the red buoy at one point. It had an interesting story, the man from across the street came over telling how he and his son pulled it out after a hurricane years ago. The form took over the composition, but I like the color that remained.

And here it is with some *Bling*. The last group of paintings ready for my show looked so pretty in their gold plein air frames, like kids dressed up for the prom, I took them outside for more photos before I let them leave the house.

As painters, we can only attempt the challenge of mimicking outdoor light. Check out the morning light that danced into my studio, making it's own light show.

My new ~Glowing~ art bio written by Art Praha Galerie can be read @ http://www.artslant.com/ew/events/show/140923-a-journal-of-color-and-light

Seeing With a Fresh Eye

2011-01-09T14:30:00.002-06:00

Mid-Summer Vignette, [SOLD], 2x16, Oil on Gallery wrap canvas.

This scene has a window-into-adventure effect. I think I maintained a focused glimpse, even without that great branch at the top. Just looking past the last storm's debris and letting the palms say "tropical".

To turn a painting into what we want it to be, we have to learn to see with a fresh eye. Turn the painting upside down, and see if it holds together. Or with back to the painting, look at it through a mirror. Or simply stash it for a long time.

This one, just now dressed up and ready for show, was inspired June 2008. Some say you can't work on a painting that has been dry so long. But the way I see it, if someone is still enjoying this piece hundreds of years from now, then they probably already got their money's worth. More than likely, they didn't pay a fortune for it, and if they did, then they can also afford a restorer to fix the chipped paint. Yes, I strive to be professional, moreover though, my painting is a quest of happiness.

(At the risk of feeling like Delilah) I leave you with a pick-me-up song: Upside Down...

Lapis in Gold Setting

2011-01-02T13:01:00.001-06:00

Lapis in Gold Setting 16x20, Oil
Often all that's needed is a little 'wrapping it up'. Sometimes the paintings that have to be the most patient are the ones that I like best. When I see potential, I get scared of ruining it. I try to figure out what I want it to be about before I simply paint to the finish. I knew I wanted to retain the freshness of the tree-line and the boats. I did decided to brighten the water and work in the mid-ground grass, then I called it a wrap.

Sort of like prepping meals before company comes- most of the work was done in advance. Then it felt nice to complete and sign three paintings in one day. This month I have a great motivation- a solo show! My first, and I am very excited for the opportunity and for the honor of representation by Art Praha European Galerie, downtown Pensacola. My "Journal of Light and Color" will open on Gallery Night January 28th!

Joy to the World!

2010-12-20T13:44:00.004-06:00

As I sat out on my swing in the sun recently, reflecting on a great show I had just visited at the Museum of Fine Art in Houston, it was the Pain that Max Liebermann painted through that pressed upon my memory.

After having inspected the brushstrokes and viewed from a distance seven rooms full of Impressionist Landscape Paintings, I stayed for the Gallery Talk. I sat amidst the later works of these three - Liebermann, Corinth, and Slevogt; Impressionists and during that era, but isolated because they were German. Within their own country the government maligned some art-work as infidel, some people: worthless, because of faith, beliefs. While studying the composition and shadows of his terrace garden painting, I hear about how Liebermann's wife received notice that her fate was to be a concentration camp, then she took her own life.

I know! A painful fact that I almost wish I hadn't been illuminated to. Unless of course, in contrast it helps me see the light of Christmas brighter. May our great country be forever allowed to enjoy a Hallelujah chorus, celebrate the Joy of Faith, and share with family the gift of Love.

Hope you have a few minutes to absorb some Joy from these two musical clips of a precious short film about a man, a city, and "the freedom he found amid the sadness." (To view the complete film, in 4 parts- http://www.youtube.com/user/WhiteLionPictograph . The music in "Music Box" is by the Sensational Nightingales. And... "It was meant to be shared". Christmas Joy to all my friends around the world.

Distant Shore

2010-12-12T17:49:00.000-06:00

"A Distant Shore" 12x16, Oil

This shore is not from around here. I had this 'start' from a recent workshop.

Working-in the mid-section: the structures, boats, and reflections.

My little studio pet, snacking and watching- "The Making of the Distant Shore".

December in Florida

2010-12-03T16:14:00.003-06:00

It was so beautiful out this morning, though the painting is not complete, I'll share the experience. Our winter "rule" is, if it's 40 degrees, it's too cold to paint. I arose to a nippy 44, but glad I got out because it quickly became a sunny 65. Just wanted to share a winter's day in ~sunny~ Florida before I play some Christmas tunes and light up my tree. Holiday Magic to all my blog-buddies...

Oh, yeah... I usually paint much better than this, but I was trying to be my own camera-man.

Scenic Hwy Bridge

2010-11-24T18:06:00.000-06:00

Scenic Hwy Bridge, 9x12, Oil

I parked my set-up over in the shade by the boat ramp. On this morning back during the oil spill crisis, the talk was all about if the patrol boats would allow you out, for fear of tracking oil back into the waterways.

As my "camera-man" said he was adjusting the eyepiece, he accidentally captured my very first painting video, so get ready for a few exciting seconds of plein-air action: the observational look... the step back... but most of all enjoy the sound effects- the tweeting birds.

Are You for Real?

2010-11-16T18:41:00.000-06:00

Shoreline on a Cloudy Day, 20x28.

If it's been a long time since you've had a morning to sit and stare into the magical world of cereal box art, then this post is for you. If you are an avid recycler, you'll be glad to know this mosaic landscape of sorts, is made of printed snack, cracker, cereal, and tea boxes. It was a crazy but fun idea I had when I taught elementary art. They did 6x6 flower designs. I couldn't let all these nice colors go to waste so I started this puzzle project for myself.

If you are the type to search for the deeper meaning (click photo to enlarge) and you may find: "your money", "the key", the "road", the "message"... "herbs", "color", "art"... a "guarantee", "superhero", "plus", "100%", "real", "love", "details"... "pies" - "strawberry", "apple"... "go to", the "end" and "sleep". A town in PA., stars, humans, dragons, a honeypot, a bare foot, a field of daisies, the eye of the dolphin, a fish tail, Elmo, Squirt from Nemo, Lenny from Shark Tales, a Grouch, a weapon, a flamingo, and much, much more...
Details below- shore, tree, cloud, water...

Ten O'clock Shadow

2010-11-08T15:11:00.005-06:00

"The Ten O'clock Shadow" 9x12, Oil. As I titled and signed this, I noticed that my photo of the interesting shadow pattern on the house was taken at 10:00. Considering composition, I aim to lead the viewer around with varied interest, but also to concentrate some sparkle at the main focal point.

From the beginning- letting the waterline shine.

There was a famliy of mallards observing me, sharing the morning.

One Never Knows

2010-10-27T14:46:00.000-05:00

(16x20 Oil) "Mimosa Tree" was once juried into the Pensacola Museum of Art, then stayed at Orange Beach- Merrill Miller's Interiors. The paint has been dry for 2 or 3 years but it's just now a "prize-winner" at the Pensacola Interstate Fair!

When it's time for a competitive show, you never know what to take. Since entering these in the "Art Study Club" show, I've received so many positive comments on the "Beach House"- locals recognize it, last night someone said a Levi's commercial was filmed there. My official judges picked the Mimosa.

The viewers get to pick their favorite for "People's Choice". It's interesting to observe public response, see who's attracted to your work, before they know it's your work.

Then... my personal reward for seein that the Fair Show ran smoothly- Sweet~confectioners~sugar! I know, it's hard to top Fine Art & Funnel Cake, all in the same venue!!

The doggie took "Best of Show". I was all the more thrilled to notify this winner of her pet's success when she shared that she had never won any award [congrats! Linda Hawthorne].

1st Place- a darling child's portrait [by Teresa Rogers].

2nd Place- gorgeous still life of colored glass [by Diane Goeller].

Thanks to all who entered work.

All of our individual styles are being admired.

And, the Show looks great as a whole.

Thanks for the long and honest deliberation of the Judges:

Joan White-Spunner Dixon http://www.joanwhite-spunner.com/

John Ball http://johnballfineart.com/

Ladies in Waiting

2010-10-20T17:27:00.000-05:00

16x20 Oil on gallery-wrap canvas. I call this "Ladies in Waiting", it was late-February as I stood over the Mobile Bay to photograph this Fairhope marina. The certainty of the chilly winds against my probably insufficient outerwear told me that these sails of pretty colors longed for warmer days.

And for musical accompaniment- a song about changing seasons (lyrics, poetic theme from the Good Book, in Ecclesiastes). Additional images compliments of the creator of Forrest Gump: Mr. Patience.

Rambling Rose

2010-10-09T15:50:00.002-05:00

Rambling Rose, SOLD, Oil, 14x18

We have painted at this farm 3 times, so many choices there! I start by playing miss wild-life photographer, though I inevitably end up focusing on the landscape in bloom. My camera really likes to focus on the animals, so much so that the batteries were down by painting time & I had to fill in with droid/camera. I'll let the Canon share today...

The Wildlife Sanctuary brought out some of it's recovering feathered friends. The Farm is on N. Blue Angel Parkway. On the south end is the Naval Air Station- Home of the Blue Angels. They practice over my house, waking me many a morning with their dazzling sky dives. I'm always glad for the back porch air show, but check out the you-tube video I found when searching for this Louis Armstrong tune- "What a Wonderful World".

Opening Night!

2010-09-27T00:18:00.001-05:00

Weekly we paint together and annually we have a group show. The Plein Air Painters of Pensacola, a family of mentors and comrades in this business of recording nature, or at least vignettes of how we view it, that day, that scene, our here & now. It's always striking how "we" as a group painting at the same location produce canvases so unique, so different. Gauguin wrote, of the Impressionist before his easel- "The painter is not the slave either of the past or the present, either of nature or his neighbor: he is always himself." The landscape painter plays the role of commentator, showing the viewer what he finds interesting.

My grouping of seven are in the foreground above.

Because every good party needs music- enjoy this song's celebration of life, unity, peace, the moonlight, the forest, out on the water, the sky, a songbird... For the JOY of it ALL!

Art Under the Stars

2010-09-24T10:33:00.000-05:00

I was thrilled the Pensacola Little Theatre asked me to display for Gallery Night. The Cultural Center is located just across the street from our largest gallery- Quayside, and the Pensacola Museum of Art (pictured below).

27 original Jill Berry works were happy to escape the confines of the studio & hang out together downtown for the evening.

A Navy man, liking the ~boats~ of course.

Navy man's wife, Connie, who runs the Theatre. And my new Navy/Theater friends. That's Louisville on the end. I had to ask, "Are you from Louisville", when I saw his shirt. "No, my name is Louisville." Where ever they are from, suffice it to say, the Navy has brought people here from all over.

This is not the Real Elvis... and I know that because, when I was 17 my Dad took me to see the REAL Elvis in concert in... Louisville! (This one, busting a move in the middle of the street: sing-a-gram-elvis!) Inside the Theatre was a performance of "All Shook Up", which was all sold-out.

& the zombie parade... it was getting late... but I think this was real!

Gallery Night~ Friday!

2010-09-16T09:57:00.000-05:00

"Dinner in Crete", 14x14 Oil. Unfortunately, I am not in Crete and this isn't a plein-air piece. Though here in our little seaside city of Pensacola tomorrow night is Gallery Night! An open-air evening of musicians taking it to the streets, Fine Art displays under street-lamps and the light of the moon. I'm honored to be the Featured Artist of Pensacola Little Theatre! map- http://schmap.it/W7lRQg (across from the Museum of Art, & Quayside Gallery) Meet me in the courtyard...

The Water-Way

2010-09-12T13:09:00.001-05:00

The Water-Way, 16x20 gallery-wrap canvas. (Sold)

A while back I posted a painting from under this bridge. It wasn't till that day I noticed it is actually visible from my kitchen window, through the park trees.

On this mid-March morning, it was extra breezy out there, but that's where I found "my view".

Laying in the foundation; thinking, large masses.

Constructing the focal points with blocks of darkest darks and lightest lights.

Using the knife now- adding variety of edges & texture.

Utilizing the straight edge of the knife for bridge details. Other times using it flat to give a soft-focus edge.

Yes, my rendition of the day, the sky- turned out quite active. And I have not thus far been able to put mooring posts in for that yacht. I only hope, I have retained some of the Life, the vitality of this location- Oyster Bar Marina, Perdido Key.

Boats, birds, runners; UPS, 7-up, & cement trucks, even palm trees, all en-route.

Summer-Fun

2010-09-02T23:20:00.001-05:00

Jill Berry Fine Art Studio has been taking a few vacation days due to summer-fun with company. I'm pulling from the archives to show this Wave Mural which filled the entire wall, floor to ceiling. When a painting on canvas sells, it feels like that work will live on forever, though apart from you. Not so, with walls. When houses sell, more than likely they are totally re-decorated, so I'm not sure if this work still exists. As my son returned from a trip to Scotland, no maybe Japan (it was about 10 years ago) he was pleasantly surprised at this scene on his bedroom wall. He grew up on the Outer Banks of North Carolina and loves the water, as I do. This week as we boated, dolphins swam all around us. They first popped up, literally touching the bow of the boat! The little ones on board screamed as if on the "Jaws Ride"! Then finally warmed up to them and got out on the raft.

These shots were taken back in May from the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Too bad I didn't have my camera or even phone on our dolphin adventure ride.

"Lonely Studio", but ~FUN!~ week.

Road-Trippin'

2010-08-19T20:51:00.002-05:00

Usually when I leave the house, I run through my mental list- Something to paint on, Something to paint with, Paint, Easel...
Then there are times when you face facts and grab the travel Etch-A-Sketch to create a landscape on-the-go.

This "Closer than they appear"shot shows my working location.

And wouldn't ya know it, at the end of the rainbow- all the money you'd ever want to finance! (If you look hard, you'll see a double.)

This cloud was first impressive as the tallest cloud ever, but now it's clearly "Kramer Smoking".

Beach House

2010-08-10T19:52:00.000-05:00

Beach House, 14x18, Oil.

We were invited to paint at this great Perdido Key home. As soon as I pulled into the drive, I saw my composition- the rising road, the house on the hill.

Even though this wonderful gulf view and gazebo were out back. I trotted back down the drive, set up shop, and painted my first impression.

Perdido Key, FL

2010-08-04T23:34:00.014-05:00

Perdido Key, Beach Access #1, 14x18, Oil, [SOLD].

This location is nearly visible from my house and I've never painted there until Friday. My phone was showing the red warning signal for a heat advisory. (I wondered if it knew I was outside, or just knew I was in FL.) Anyway, I stayed in the shade. When the shadow of this high-rise moved on, I was done as well.

No, we don't usually have tractors on our beach. But we gladly made way for them as they were there to help clean-up for BP. I can't say that I saw any actual clean-up, but perhaps they finished working before I started. The water looked crystal clear, and the sand was clean. So they encouraged me as they drove heavy equipment by, enjoyed the dolphins through binoculars, and rested under their 99-degree tent. They should have moved their break-room to the wind-tunnel where we painted. It was so windy that Kay's easel was blown over. Luckily her finished painting landed face up.

It's Up To You

2010-07-25T21:33:00.001-05:00

The group was invited to paint at my son's house. Yes, it was our typical a.m. slot when this painting began with blue morning tones- true to the scene, but boring.

[time-lapse...] On my way to paint the moon, I spied this couple enjoying the sunset. [Then back in the studio]- The more I worked on this pier scene, the more it transformed into a platform to view the setting sun. The umbrella was no longer needed, and the chairs weren't cozy enough. I can hear some of you saying, "that's two different paintings layered one over the other". Yep.

Sure I broke all kind of rules in the process, but decided- "It's my party". Our canvas is a place of freedom! If this painting had a companion lyric, it is Dylan's- "She can take the dark out of the night-time, and paint the daytime black...She's got everything she needs, she's an artist, she don't look back."

I'm looking forward to a visit from Dad this week. The pier will no doubt get another transformation, into Pop's fishing-pier. We'll probably need the chairs and umbrella, but I'm not going back in after them.

As I crossed the bridge I marveled at this unique situation, it appeared the colors turned happiest out over the deep and kept somber over the land. The sky itself seemed to say- "It's up to you. Render me how you would like... it's your creation."

And yes, I was snapping and driving, but please don't tell my Dad!

Flashbacks and Surprises

2010-07-20T17:46:00.003-05:00

"Florida Bluebonnets" 16x20, Oil. SOLD.

Blue- is sky, blue- is water, but blue is the rarest of floral colors. These wildflowers are typical of Texas, where I visited the last two Springs, without the pleasure of seeing or painting any, only to return home and spot this field abloom from my back deck. I notified plein-air friends and we had a special session. The traveling easel didn't have far to go this time, so we just walked across the street.

As my blog-friend Karen Phipps mentioned recently- it's in the doing that we learn. Time spent painting is akin to a workshop by ourselves, for ourselves. Observing my own methods for this work, I have an array of applications.

Ya gotta start somewhere- in this case it was with a house paint brush.

To soften the horizon, I used a cotton cloth.

Distressing over the whiteness of the canvas showing through, because I hadn't pre-toned my canvas, I sought to achieve a ground base by the drip-method.

(Oil paint doesn't always have to be applied thick.)

Finally though, in an attempt to state a massive field of bluebonnets, as opposed to individual flowers- I had to draw my sword.

Gotta love life's little surprises... the unexpected... the suddenlies!

Late Afternoon Gulf

2010-07-14T12:16:00.003-05:00

Upon discovering this painting in my studio, I thought- Did I paint that? Where and when? It is the Gulf... but Texas, last summer. Aren't cameras among the most amazing inventions? Visual recordings! Imagine trying to share our art and experience, limited to the written word. Through photographs and memories, I owned the brushstrokes and signed the painting. "Late Afternoon Gulf" 11x14, Oil, SOLD.

On the ferry exiting Galveston, I was a sight-seer enjoying the view, and took some home for later as well. ~click pics to enlarge~

5:49 pm

6:46 pm

6-18-09 Traveling Easel- Galveston

Pensacola Beach Morning

2010-07-06T22:15:00.001-05:00

"Pensacola Beach Morning", [SOLD],16x20, Oil. 2-18-10

The awesome thing about being outside is the atmosphere is always in motion. Indoors is static. But the natural forces of wind and light provide energy to my psyche.

Surely the light did keep changing as I worked on this, but I tried to retain as my central focus- the bright morning glare on the water.

At some points you could barely distinguish where the the sky met the Gulf.

An interesting thing about this location, besides being a favorite surfing spot, is the historic cross.

"The 10-foot, cast concrete cross on Pensacola Beach commemorates the first Christian mass held in the United States. The Knights of Columbus first placed it on the north side of Fort Pickens Road in 1959 as part of the Quadra centennial celebration of Don Tristan de Luna's landing in Pensacola, establishing America's first European settlement. Some time later, the cross was moved to its current home on the south side of Fort Pickens Road.

The Cross has stood firm through many bouts with Mother Nature, including most recently Hurricane Ivan, which flattened most gulf-front dunes for several miles east and west. So far, there is no scientific explanation as to why the dune and the cross have been spared so many times. According to several residents, the answer will never come from science but instead can be found from within."

Protecting the Coast

2010-06-29T12:15:00.015-05:00

"Lookout @ Fort Pickens", 11x14 Oil. Our US southern coastline and Pensacola's harbor was at one time protected by men, forts, and canons. On this day at Fort Pickens, it was the stairway-to-the-sky effect that I decided to capture.

I start with a generous palette, within each color family- warms and cools, transparents and opaques.

Of course, I had to climb the stairs in case their was a more paintable view from on-high. Above shows the Gulf of Mexico. (You may have seen this location on the news last week- it's where they tried to save a baby dolphin, a victim of the oil spill.)

Also visible- the intercoastal waterway and shore of the Naval Air Station- Pensacola. So if I had been traveling by boat, I could have been home in just a few minutes. But then I would have missed the lovely drive down Pensacola Beach.

1898-1947 Battery Worth's mortars could lob 700 pound projectiles in high arcs to penetrate ships.

There Are Places I Remember

2010-06-23T17:29:00.005-05:00

"Grand Hotel, Mobile Bay", 16x20, Oil, SOLD. A couple of winters ago, I snapped this photo as our plein-air workshop took a lunch break. Thinking it might make a painting of a memorable spot, I used it as reference for a painting demonstration in Alabama at an art-event for snow-birds this winter. Then, just finished it on my new studio easel today.

Recently I shared the most delicious covered dish luncheon with "Artists by the Bay" at a gorgeous residence overlooking Mobile Bay. That's when chat of the oil-spill was still in the hopefully-it-won't-reach-us stage.

Back to the Grand Hotel in Point Clear: it's a beautifully landscaped luxury Marriott with spa. I got to stay there once, and remember- it was the day they dethroned the statue of Saddam. That was the news as I got ready to go out for dinner.

Last Stop- Pensacola

2010-06-18T20:54:00.006-05:00

Location- Palafox Pier, facing downtown Pensacola. You certainly can't wear long sleeves out today- it was toasty-hot even this morning, and humidity- that makes your camera lens fog. This little adventure goes back to early March. Title- "Last Stop- Pensacola" (SOLD) 11x14, Oil.

This sailor was on a voyage from Oregon to the Bahamas. The wetsuit was to relieve the chill of jumping in the cold water to remove a fishing net tangled in his prop. From our brief chat, I gathered his excitement to sail the open seas, though a bit of concern over having sleep-apnea out there alone. Also, his kids (in TN, I believe) would be his first stop when returning home from his journey of a life-time.

Here's a link to a music-vid, "I Am Sailing" by Rod Stewart. It's not concert quality, but that just adds to the breezy feelin'~~~ Enjoy!

Gulf Coast Environment

2010-06-09T16:30:00.002-05:00

"How much is that painting in the window?", I hope someone asks soon, of my shrimping boat (Joe Patti's, 18x24, Oil). [p.s. from Dec. 2010, the painting is sold, now]. I like this image, it appears the birds in the painting are about to launch out into the real sky. I don't usually add birds, but on this day they became an undeniable part of the atmosphere as they greeted the seafood boats with their fresh catch. The is behind Joe Patti's Seafood- a famous local hot-spot. Usually, it's so busy, you wait for your number to get called before choosing your fresh seafood. They have a large gourmet market also.

I can not fathom what all those whose livelihood comes from these waters will endure, since the tragic oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

For me, it is a place of beauty, a nature reserve, a place to air out my brain, a spa, a workout gym- a place of recreation, an unpredictable swim- the waves might be kind, or they might beat you up a bit. But until today, it hasn't been advised "No Swimming" because of oil. Walking along the beach and scooping up oil-globs with my water bottle,trying to keep the birds out of them and my back-yard clean for one more day... that was a crude awakening.

Oh! I do have some happy news- three of my paintings have found a new home! So the Gulf Coast economy (at least on a personal level) has a bright spot. I had "Crepe Myrtle" among others, with me to take to my Interiors outlet when the Dentist bought it right out of the trunk of my car! Bright side to going to the dentist too! Marketing is not my strong suit, but one thing's for sure- if you don't show them, you won't sell them

Palm Studies

2010-06-02T17:48:00.004-05:00

"Palm in Evening Attire" 12x16, Oil.

My favorite time, artistically speaking, to set out back is when the late afternoon warmth blankets the landscape. It seemed odd to print this photo from my "paint this" file and take it to the workshop last week, but I'm glad I finally portrayed my most familiar scene, even if not in plein air. (The slab in the foreground is what remains of a house that fell victim to hurricane Ivan.)

"Palm Friends", 11x14, Oil. It was the interaction of these two palms that took center stage... the leaning gesture of the large one and the way the light beamed through it- that was my challenge.

Well, I started out in the shade of this palm, but I kept having to move.

There were a variety of boaters, a group of kayakers, people casting nets, birds, planes, a guy living in his truck...lots of live action. I'm still tempted to give it some more life. What do you think?