Liz Patterson Art Journal

Portrait of Audrey

2012-01-06T18:49:00.003-05:00

This little portrait of my grand-daughter was a long time coming.

First, it took a long time to get some good photo reference, even though I had taken plenty of pictures of her every time we were together. The thing is, I have some criteria for my portraits. I want the pose and facial expression to be relaxed, calm, and contented... as if the subject sat comfortably with me as I worked on their portrait. (Even though I actually use my photos for reference.) My feeling is that the resulting portrait is one that will be enjoyed with that same contentedness by its viewers.

But, whenever Audrey spied the camera, she would make a funny face. So, although we had a lot of fun, those needed reference photos eluded me for months. I finally got some I liked, and began drawing... oh, back in August, I think. I finished it just in time to give to my son and daughter-in-law for Christmas. Granted, there was a lot going on in my life during that time, but still, that is a long time for a little portrait. I keep comparing it in my mind to a slow-cooked meal. I suppose it's o.k. to be a crock-pot once in a while. Who knows, maybe I'll be a pressure cooker one day!

(6x9", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

The Artist's Magazine 28th Annual Competition

2011-11-04T16:51:00.003-04:00

I am happy to finally be able to announce that my colored pencil piece, Mottled, has won second place in the still life category of The Artist's Magazine's annual competition! It was so exciting to find out about this several months ago, and waiting until it hit the newsstands to publish my news has been tough. (I was just informed by my sister that she and my mother did indeed see the issue in a bookstore today... and they bought every copy there!)

(For a better view, click on "Still Life Gallery", to the right. It's in there!)

Work in Progress and a Weekend Show

2011-09-28T11:38:00.005-04:00

This piece should be finished and framed in time for the "Art at Marrett" show this weekend. I'm calling this one Onion: Past Her Prime. More and more, I am inspired by the undeniable beauty of things that are slightly worn, over-ripe, chipped, patched, or gone-to-seed. You have to admit, for an onion that a few days later, went to her final rest in the compost, she's looking quite striking here!

Appropriately, the upcoming show is in the barn at the historic Marrett House in Standish, Maine. I will be happily surrounded by antiquity!

Isabella

2011-09-07T11:15:00.003-04:00

This little graphite pencil portrait is a special one, in that it's the latest in a series that was begun over twenty years ago. I have a few precious clients whose collections of my work are like visual chronicles of their families' growth: in this case, pencil portraits of grandchildren. The snapshot below shows the drawings of Isabella's older cousins on the wall... some of whom are young adults now. Time really does fly.

(9x12", graphite pencil on bristol)

At the Barn Gallery, Ogunquit, Maine

2011-06-30T16:11:00.003-04:00

My colored pencil still life, Heirloom Tomatoes and Chard, has been juried into the Barn Gallery's annual Open, Regional, Juried Exhibition. It's exciting to be a part of this show, and I must admit that sometimes I forget how fortunate I am to live so close to an area that has such an active and dynamic arts community... especially in the summer!

Regional Artists: An Open, Juried Show
Barn Gallery
On the corner of Shore Road and Bourne Lane
Ogunquit, Maine

Exhibition Dates: Wednesday, June 29 - Sunday, July 30, 2011
Opening Reception: Saturday, July 9, 5 - 8 PM

Friday Reception at Lyme Art Association

2011-06-22T10:44:00.003-04:00

I'm excited to be visiting Old Lyme, Connecticut for the first time, as I travel there on Friday for the artists' reception of the Hudson Valley Art Association's 80th Annual Exhibit at the Lyme Art Association. Seeing the nearby Florence Griswold Museum is going to be a wonderful bonus!

This detail of Pizzelle On A Pedestal, my colored pencil piece which is included in the HVAA exhibit, shows very well a particular characteristic that has earned it an alternate title, coined by my much beloved mother: You Could Have Ironed That. I love it!

****6/24 Update: A disappointing change of plans!
A miserable sounding and potentially hazardous weather forecast for the Lyme area today... which would come after our four hour drive... has prompted me to cancel our trip. I'm feeling sad about missing the reception, but still hope to see the HVAA show, and the Florence Griswold Museum sometime in July.

Opening Reception on Friday

2011-06-13T06:42:00.002-04:00

Two of my colored pencil pieces have been juried into this wonderful local show, Art Is Community II, put on by the Saco River Art League. I have shown my work once before in this charming space on the banks of the Saco River, and am happy to be here again... this time with so many special people!

Not only is this an exciting exhibit of the work of many of the area's artists and fine craftspeople, but also a real community event which includes art making activity for one and all! Come check it out and have some fun, in the lower level of the Old White Church, this weekend.

I'm looking forward to seeing many old friends and new at the reception on Friday! (I will be at the show on Sunday as well.) Please come if you can!

“Art is Community II”
A juried regional show and sale of art and fine crafts
Friday June 17-Sunday July 17, 2011
Opening Reception, meet the Artists: Fri. June 17, 4-8
Gallery Hours: Sat. June 18, 10-2, Sun. June 19, 10-4
also July 15 & 16, 5:30-7:30 or by appointment
At The Old White Church,
15 Salmon Falls Rd, Buxton, ME
Next to the Saco River Grange Hall
FMI- 642-4219 or 929-6472

Hudson Valley Art Association 80th Annual Exhibition

2011-05-18T14:48:00.002-04:00

I am happy to report that my colored pencil drawing, Pizzelle On A Pedestal, has been accepted into the Hudson Valley Art Association's 80th Annual Exhibition. The show travels from the Lyme Art Association's Cole and Goodman galleries in Old Lyme, Connecticut (June 17-31), to the National Arts Club in New York (August 4-20).

Macy

2011-05-05T16:49:00.005-04:00

Here is the commissioned portrait that I've been working on intermittently for quite a while: the lovely Macy and her sweet pooch, Allen. As I often do, I am posting at the point of about 99% finished, to take that final look before the last little adjustments are made.

I find that when I work at a slow and steady pace, as I have here, I seem to want to just keep going that way, and the finishing point remains far away... almost like a song that never ends... I could keep humming along happily! But, it's time to get Macy and Allen matted, framed and delivered to their home, so that finishing point has come, and it's time to stop the humming. I hope it will be enjoyed there as much as I have enjoyed creating it here!

CPSA 19th Annual International Exhibition

2011-05-03T10:01:00.003-04:00

I was so happy to learn yesterday that my portrait, Ella and the Cosmos, has been accepted into the Colored Pencil Society of America's 19th Annual International Exhibition! This year's event is in Dallas, Texas, at the Charles W. Eisemann Center Gallery for the month of July.

Heartfelt thank yous and lots of love to my niece (for posing), and to my brother and sister-in-law for being such wonderful patrons of my artwork... and allowing this portrait to take a little trip to Dallas!

Portrait Progress

2011-03-15T13:34:00.004-04:00

Here is what is on my drawing table. I've been working on this commissioned portrait for a while, and I think it is far enough along to share my progress. I am enjoying this special project, and though there is a long way to go, I'm seeing the likenesses emerge: one lovely, and one cute!

An aspect of this piece that has been quite time consuming is the large amount of white and near-white areas. I am again drawing on the gray Pastelbord, which is requiring a lot of layering with the light colors to achieve the right values. Some might wonder why I didn't just use a white drawing surface for this one, and maybe save myself some work! Well, I happen to really like the effects of the light colored pencils on the mid-toned gray. It seems to give energy to areas that might otherwise be flat and lifeless... a wall, for example. There is something about the way the gray plays against the pigments of the pencils as it peeks through that I think just works!

(16"x20", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Maine Blueberries

2011-02-07T13:50:00.003-05:00

This tiny, three inch square drawing is my part of a collaborative project by the New England chapter of the Colored Pencil Society of America. We members are creating a montage of these minis to represent our group at the 2011 CPSA conference in July, in Dallas.

It was pleasant to work on this close-up view of low bush blueberries while the only thing growing around here was snow and ice! I used a new material, called Pastelmat, which is a heavy paper with a sanded surface. The grit is finer than the Pastelbord, which I usually use. Layering of colors was more limited, and the texture was quickly covered, but I think I'll be trying a few more pieces with it. I'm heading to Florida for a week, so don't be surprised if a seashell drawing shows up here soon!

A New Year

2011-01-08T10:01:00.004-05:00

After a little hiatus, I am back to work. The new year starts for me with a commission for a large colored pencil portrait, just begun, that I am excited about. Lots of still life ideas are coming together in my head, and a couple more small projects are on the horizon.

I realized that O.J. and Blues was never posted here as a finished piece, and its sunny, brand-new-day feeling seemed an appropriate image for my first post of 2011. This was one of the varnished pieces included in my recent show. Having some work matted and framed under glass like a traditional drawing, and some varnished and framed as a painting certainly added to the interest and inevitable questions that go along with showing colored pencil artwork.

Speaking of the show, I've added a separate page of photos, mostly of the opening reception. (A special thanks to those of you who shared your photos!) Just look in the right hand column, under "pages" and click on "Firehouse Show Photos".

At the Firehouse Center For The Arts

2010-11-11T08:00:00.005-05:00

My work has been hanging at the Firehouse Center For The Arts' Gallery for a week now, and it's been a good week. I was assisted with the hanging process by my brother, Stephen.... who, it so happens, has a play being produced by the Firehouse during these first two weeks of my show. Presenting our work at the same time has reminded me that we definitely belong to a mutual admiration society. It's hard to say which of us is more proud of the other!

The opening reception was a joyous evening, if a bit of a blur, with so many wonderful people to talk to! I am short on photos, but wanted to show one of the varnished pieces all framed and hanging on the gallery wall. There will be more to come.

Grace's Alpaca Hat

2010-10-26T17:18:00.002-04:00

There is something about my niece's favorite alpaca hat that I think gives this portrait a timeless, yet contemporary feeling. Maybe it's the earflaps: old fashioned and funky at the same time. Whatever it is, the vision of her in it makes me smile.

This is the final piece for my solo show which is being hung one week from today. Here is all of the information.

Elizabeth Patterson - Works In Colored Pencil

Firehouse Center For The Arts
Market Square
Newburyport, MA

Exhibit: November 3 - December 12, 2010
Reception for the artist:
Saturday, November 6, 5:00 - 7:00
Open Wednesday - Sunday 12:00 - 5:00
and extended hours on performance nights.
Call 978-462-7336 or visit
www.firehouse.org for more information.

Hope that some of you reading this can come!

(11"x11", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Acorn Squash and Zinnia

2010-10-13T16:13:00.002-04:00

Here is one last still life for my solo exhibit, opening in three weeks. A palette of primary colors, an aged pitcher, pickings from the garden, and bright morning light are some of my favorite elements, so I've brought them all together.

Now it's time to get all of the framing done, mail postcards... and do one more portrait!

(14"x9", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Flotilla

2010-10-01T09:42:00.004-04:00

This work-in-progress is a piece that has been in my head for a long time. I often feature old pitchers, creamers, tea and coffee pots... basically anything with a spout... in my still lifes. When I asked my mom several months ago about borrowing some gravy boats to use as "models", she told me a little story that inspired this piece. What happened was this. My mom likes to display interesting and beautiful things, create impromptu floral arrangements, and generally come up with new ways to showcase heirlooms and thrift store finds. She had just finished attractively setting up her assortment of gravy boats on an antique oak cabinet one day, when my dad walked in and said, "What's with the flotilla?" So, here is my Flotilla. I will smile every time I look at this piece, imagining that moment, hearing my father's voice and humor, seeing my mom's spontaneous creativity and her grin at his silliness. Love.

All right. I've had a little break for tears. I miss my dad a lot.

Anyway! Set up on a blue-gray silk sea, these six gravy boats from my my mother's collection are on their way... somewhere. A flotilla under the parsley and nasturtium flag.

(20"x7", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Cherries In A Teacup

2010-09-27T14:51:00.003-04:00

One of my smaller pieces for the upcoming show, Cherries In A Teacup is one that I am planning to frame without glass. While at the CPSA exhibit and conference, I saw many colored pencil pieces finished with different varnishing processes and framed as an acrylic or oil painting would be, eliminating the need for mat and glass. I really liked the look of them, and the pastel board that I work on lends itself to these techniques. Out of a total of twenty five or so pieces in the solo exhibit, five or six will be done this way. The process still feels very new to me, so is requiring a lot of care and patience... plus I'm just realizing that choosing frames will be very different, since I'm so accustomed to having that buffer of white mat in there.

Come to the show and see how it all turns out!

(10.5"x6", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Ella & the Cosmos

2010-09-14T09:29:00.003-04:00

I've made lots of progress on this special piece. Bringing "still life" objects into portraits is something I have been wanting to do lately, and finishing at least one of these in time for the November show was a goal. "Ella & the Cosmos" will fulfill that goal, after a bit more work and a trip to the frame shop.

Thank you to my niece for posing, and for suggesting the flower tucked in her hair!

(20"x16", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Mussel Shells & Lusterware, and works in progress

2010-08-24T12:08:00.005-04:00

The 'Mussel Shells & Lusterware' still life is ready for framing, and I have two works in progress here. These are each in different stages. The little 6 by 10 inch 'Cherries In a Teacup' is still quite rough, but the gray Pastelbord has been completely covered. I will continue layering and refining to finish it. The portrait, 'Ella & The Cosmos', whose detail I'm showing here, is much larger, at 16 by 20 inches. There is still a lot of bare gray board showing, with some of my early, sketchy layers, but the face is much further along.

I am busily and excitedly preparing for a one-person show this fall, at The Firehouse Center For The Arts in Newburyport, Massachusetts. More on that later!

Work In Progress Detail: Mussel Shells

2010-07-07T11:53:00.002-04:00

Using mussel shells in a still life with blue lusterware has been in the back of my mind for quite a while. I thought that white linen would be a good backdrop for them, and it probably would be... but these old, rough-sawn boards happened to be nearby when I chose an east window as my light source, so I lined them up as a tabletop and immediately liked what I saw. The colors are just complimentary enough, the wood grain shapes just similar enough to the shells, and the texture just varied enough from the other subjects to lend a comfortable beauty to the setting.

Sharing this detail of my work-in-progress gives me incentive to keep working, through muggy weather and summer activities, and get this done! Look for the entire, finished piece to be posted soon.

A Still Life For A Cat

2010-06-10T16:56:00.004-04:00

This is another little 5"x7" piece that I've been working on. I didn't start out with the idea of creating a still life that a cat might appreciate... it just evolved that way, which is kind of fun. I wanted to use the tiny cut glass pitcher and salter, and was looking for an interesting sprig of something green to put in the pitcher. There on my windowsill were some healthy new catnip plants that my grandson and I had started from seeds, so I snipped off a piece and stuck it in. For a moment, it seemed like a weird subject, but that's when the cat idea struck me. So, the catnip went into the salter, milk went into the pitcher, and a tempting tassel was added to the scene.

Once it's finished, I'll test it out on my cat... although, knowing him, he'll probably turn up his nose at it!

(7"x5", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Heirloom Tomatoes & Chard, work in progress

2010-05-18T11:17:00.004-04:00

I sketched and photographed this still life set-up a couple of years ago, when I grew these beautiful stripey tomatoes and the Swiss chard in my garden. The Roseville pitcher seemed like a fitting companion, being an heirloom itself, and having some of that subtle rosy coloring found in the tomato. I sat them all on an old wicker basket, in front of my one-hundred-plus-year-old kitchen cabinets. There is something irresistible to me about pairing the very fresh and the very old!

(11"x16", colored pencil on pastelbord)

Apple and Her Baggage

2010-05-12T09:56:00.004-04:00

Here is the finished apple piece, and the title, which just came to me five minutes ago. This little still life was sold before it was finished, and continues to generate interest. Who would have thought that such a simple subject, and small format would be so popular? I think "Apple and Her Baggage" will be a giclee print soon. (By the way, I'm working on adding a page to this blog, where giclee prints and note cards will be available for purchase.)

(7"x5", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

CPSA 18th Annual International Exhibit

2010-04-26T14:07:00.003-04:00

For a few years now, I have submitted entries to the Colored Pencil Society of America's annual international exhibit, but had never had one of my pieces chosen. I just found out that "Waiting" (a portrait of my grandson, Ethan) has been accepted for this year's show! It will be re-framed with plexiglass for safe shipping, and sent off to Los Gatos, California in July.

Exciting!

Title for an Apple

2010-04-21T18:43:00.003-04:00

Here is a little something I'm working on. At just five by seven inches, it really is a little something! I was going to call this "Apple and Old Maids", because of the group of tiny, shriveled, undeveloped fruits on the same stem as this beautifully hefty one. We call unpopped popcorn kernels 'old maids', and that's what these reminded me of. Then I started to think about the term, and I just don't like it!

So, what else could I call it? Survival of the Fittest? Sole Survivor? Over and Under Achievers? Any ideas?

Still Point Art Gallery Exhibition

2010-04-08T07:51:00.002-04:00

Three of my colored pencil pieces are currently on display in Still Point Art Gallery's current show, "Still Point II". I am honored to also have been selected as an 'Artist of Distinction' by the gallery, which will allow me to show more of my work there in 2011. The gallery's blog has articles on each of the chosen artists here. I invite you to take a look!

O. J. & Blues (work-in-progress #3)

2010-03-17T07:10:00.003-04:00

This shot of the latest work-in-progress shows more of the loose drawing stage of my process... not to say that my process is the same with every piece... but somewhere in there, a natural, quick drawing style plays a part. I'd describe my process as follows: intuitive, practiced, and spontaneous happenings, in varying proportions.

Plums, Quince & Tea

2010-03-09T10:22:00.003-05:00

Perhaps I should rename this blog, "The Work In Progress Journal".

So, here is another work in progress! I am actually waiting for a delivery of some art supplies to finish this, and my previously posted 'mottled' piece... and I have started another still life in the meantime. Having three pieces in progress at once is something I thought I would never do. Never say never! Now I'm thinking that I might bring all three to the same 'almost done' stage, then spend a few days just working in 'finish' mode, and complete them. It could be a good thing.

12"x12", colored pencil on Pastelbord

Work In Progress: "Mottled"

2010-02-09T11:38:00.005-05:00

Here is a glimpse of the still life I've been working on for the past few weeks. I chose to place a speckled squash in a mottled bowl, by some freckled jars and a dappled glass pitcher... hence the title! I knew it would be a challenge with all of those assorted spots, and the addition of a traditional twining floral print fabric underneath it all ensured that I would be working on this for quite some time. While I was setting it up, by a partially curtained window, a narrow strip of sunlight hit the golden squash, creating that fantastic reflection inside the bowl. With a little nudging, I got the light to shoot through the green glass as well.

Back to work. I will be posting the finished piece soon.

((detail) 16"x20", colored pencil on pastelbord)

A Brother & Sister in Pencil, and a Group Show Report

2010-02-01T16:10:00.005-05:00

Here is a recently done pair of commissioned portraits in graphite pencil. I really like how they have a similar feeling of confidence, with a straightforward gaze and the poses slightly leaning toward us. Such beautiful young faces!

I must take a few moments to report on the group show of last November. In a nutshell, it was wonderful! We had plenty of traffic, tons of interest, gorgeous weather, lots of fun, and we all made some sales. We hung the show ourselves (with the help of some fabulous friends), served up an abundance of refreshments at the artists' reception, and definitely got to know each other better!

The artists; Dirk Leach, Nina Fuller, Jane Ryan, and myself, with some of Jane's paintings behind us.

Work in progress: "Waiting"

2009-11-08T15:27:00.005-05:00

This will be a last minute addition to the portrait section of my work in next week's group show. I'm still working on it, and I'm sure the matting and framing process will bring it right down to the wire!

Today, I will be picking up my giclee prints. I chose "Water Plus Sunshine", "Pizzelle On a Pedestal", "Lilac and Primaries", and "Brussels Sprouts and Delft" for the prints. Also on my list today is proofing images for note cards that will be printed this week. "Espresso and Lace" and "Winterberries" are among the chosen pieces for the cards.

(12"x12", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Winter Is Coming

2009-11-07T20:36:00.008-05:00

When I see these winterberries on their leafless branches by the side of the road, I know that winter is just around the corner. They inspired me to put together this still life with a holiday feel, along with some trimmings from a fir tree, a gracefully shaped old pitcher, and a bright red tablecloth. The backlit white curtains add a snowy touch.

I've chosen to have some note cards printed of this piece, and a few others, to add to the offerings at the upcoming show. There will also be giclee prints of "Water Plus Sunshine", "Pizzelle On A Pedestal", "Lilac and Primaries", and "Brussels Sprouts and Delft". I'm looking forward to a very busy and exciting weekend of the 20th through the 22nd!

(12"x16", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Zinnia, Parsley and Pattypan

2009-10-27T14:01:00.003-04:00

How's that for a combination? I love the shape of these little pattypan squash, and their subtle, creamy green color. After trying many different still life set ups, it was clear that a pink palette was perfect for showing them off. So, pink linen, an old Staffordshire plate, and a mix of zinnias provide the complimentary color, while a bunch of parsley and a yellow pitcher lend support to the squash's green-ness.

(12"x12", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Brussels Sprouts & Delft..progress

2009-10-13T16:35:00.003-04:00

Once again, this piece was set aside, but I finally have it very close to finished. The basket-like reed mats under the sprouts and pitcher have been more defined and warmed up in hue, and the long afternoon shadows accentuated. Finally, I think a few touches of a zingy, springy green on those Brussels sprouts will just about do it!

(6"x14", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Upcoming Group Show

2009-10-01T08:21:00.008-04:00

I am looking forward to my first local group show, coming up in November. The combination of large acrylic landscapes by Jane Ryan, fine art photography by Nina Fuller, "fine rustic" furniture by Dirk Leach, and my own colored pencil still lifes and portraits should really fill our space with energy, life and color. The space is a charming one... "The Old White Church", situated on the banks of the Saco River, repurposed as a venue for musical performances and an art gallery. It is right next door to (and actually a part of) the Saco River Grange Hall which is a wonderful little theater and concert hall.

The show and sale will be November 20th through the 22nd. Here is a map of the location. You are hereby invited!

Fall Fun

2009-09-18T11:09:00.002-04:00

Here is a little sampling of matted prints that I am offering for sale at the Fall Fair in Burlington, Massachusetts, on September 26th. My mother, a brother, a sister, and I will have a family table there that will feature a fun mix of items including handmade vintage style aprons, hand crafted birdhouses, whoopie pies, autumn themed tiaras for girls, and my art prints.

The prints were chosen from a collection of over a hundred art cards (ACEOs) that I created. The originals all sold through ebay. I have reproduced them in their actual size of two and a half by three and a half inches, and matted them in eight by ten mats. These are not limited edition prints, but they are each unique, as I added touches of color to each one with colored pencil. This "suns and moons" series was a lot of fun to dream up, as was the nostalgic, illustrative style that I employed.

I'm looking forward to an enjoyable day with family, friends, food, and music!

Another Cute Pair

2009-08-23T14:29:00.004-04:00

It seems that portrait commissions come two-by-two for me, and I like it like that! (My last five commissions have been for two or more portraits.) Drawing a pair of siblings, as these pretty girls are, always makes me more aware of the subtle little differences and similarities in features and expressions. There is also a benefit to looking at them side by side for a few days at the finishing stage, adding a touch here and there until they are equally good. (That being said, I have no such control over scans and photographs of my pencil drawings. Why are grays so difficult?)

These two girls were a joy to meet, and to draw! The portraits are packed up and ready for their trip to California, so, off to the post office I go!

Brussels Sprouts and Delft

2009-07-21T10:49:00.003-04:00

This work-in-progress has been in-progress for quite a while, interrupted by several pencil portrait commissions and life in general. The clean white narcissus, classic blue Delft-ware, and crisp Brussels sprouts looked quite lovely in the setting sun of early June. Even at this rough stage, I think the freshness I'm seeking is starting to come through.

(6"x14", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Primarily Tactile

2009-05-30T10:46:00.003-04:00

With a few more tweaks, this will be finished. Besides those primary-leaning colors, which always grab me, I was drawn to the different textures here. The bricks and their old crumbly mortar, the glazed pottery, the tender and flexible lilac blossoms and leaves, and the smooth but sturdy cloth with its creased fold; to me, they beg to be touched.

(12"x16", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Back To Work

2009-05-19T15:08:00.003-04:00

It has been a while, but I'm back at the drawing board, and enjoying working on this new piece. The almost-primary palette of this still-life is making me happy! And then there's the scent of the lilacs... heavenly. I love May.

(12"x16", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

Two Pencils; One Subject

2009-03-19T09:52:00.004-04:00

This graphite drawing, of the same adorable little boy portrayed in the (now finished) colored pencil piece, shows how I use these media very differently. The colored pencil on roughly textured Pastelbord owes much of its strength to the multi-layered areas of color, while any actual drawing of line is kept to a minimum. With the graphite pencil, I like to emphasize the contours with a definite linear presence, which creates a kind of framework for the rest of the drawing.

These commissioned portraits were a joy to do!

(12"x18", graphite pencil on bristol)

Little Portrait in Progress

2009-02-28T12:25:00.002-05:00

I am loving all of the color in this little portrait. (Happily, my client agreed to allow me to share it here!) There is something about the cool hues of the subject's skin tones and sweater being in front of the warmer colors of the chair slats and wall behind that just make this piece sing (to me, anyway)! And then there are his vibrant eyes, lips, and... oh, that hair!

(There is a graphite pencil portrait of this boy in the works also. I'll post it soon.)

(6"x7.5", colored pencil on Pastelbord)

...almost there...

2009-01-30T11:34:00.002-05:00

This is still not quite finished, and the photo isn't the best, but I felt the need to post something before I head out for a little leave of absence. The dark areas under the table need more work, and there are more darks to add to the lace details. Once this is done, I have some commissions to get going on, two of which are portraits. I'm definitely ready for a portrait!

Pizzelle On A Pedestal... more progress

2009-01-09T10:56:00.004-05:00

Yes, I'm still working on this one. The two stacked pizzelle are taking shape, as is the creased and rumpled linen. I really like the varied textures of the still life elements here; the delicate crispness of the cookies, the glazed weight of the pottery, and the soft linen, which has been reminding me of snowdrifts. The lace trim hanging in the air will add a nice dimensional touch while emphasizing some depth under the table.

(detail) 16"x20", colored pencil on Pastelbord

More Pizzelle... In Progress

2008-12-05T07:19:00.003-05:00

Here on my drawing table sits a work in progress, and the progress is... slow. Between holidays and a new three-day-a-week job, my attention to this piece has been snatched in odd little pieces of time. It's starting to come together, though.

This is my third still life that features pizzelle, a favorite Italian treat of mine. I have used an antique linen with a lace trim that relates to the waffle cookie's pretty design, and two of my favorite vintage blue pitchers to compliment their golden hues. Perched like this on a quirky old pedestal table, I thought they looked rather splendid!

16"x20", colored pencil on Pastelbord

Button-Spotted Goose Egg

2008-11-14T20:02:00.003-05:00

No, this is not an egg from which will hatch a Button-Spotted Gosling.

What it is, is a goose egg, several years old, completely dried inside. I have drawn buttons all over it with my colored pencils, in a pattern that is reminiscent of a real spotted egg of some kind. I must admit that my child-like imagination kicked in while I was working on this, and now there's a little story in my head that includes a mysterious hatchling with button-eyes!

3.5" x 2.5" x 2.5", colored pencil and acrylic medium on goose egg

Lusterware & Oak Leaves

2008-11-05T13:54:00.004-05:00

Here is a little still life I'm working on. This is the first time I've used Lusterware pottery in any artwork, but it won't be the last. The lighting on this set-up didn't highlight its iridescence very much, but even at this level, it's fun and challenging to capture.

I've always found this "duck" creamer to be a goofy looking item. Somehow, though, he seems to belong right here at the forefront of this piece, pulling together all of the colors behind him. I guess I'll never think of him as completely goofy again! (Maybe just a little bit goofy.)

6"x13", colored pencil on Pastelbord

"Water Plus Sunshine" Makes A Splash

2008-11-03T09:07:00.006-05:00

What a wonderful weekend!

My husband and I drove down to Newport for the gallery opening on Saturday. The ride itself was beautiful, the entire route lined by the nicest display of autumn oak foliage I have ever seen. I'm not kidding! It was really striking... gold, bronze, ochre, rust, mahogany, burgundy... all with that polished leather sheen that oak leaves have. Fantastic!

Then, at the gallery, I discover that my still life entry, "Water Plus Sunshine", has won the Juror's Choice Award! Here's what she had to say:

Juror's Comments:

Juror's Choice:
"Water Plus Sunshine"
Elizabeth Patterson

Red and green; two colors I would never attempt to use together, they are complimentary colors that do not always seem compatible. Think about how hard it is to find nice Christmas paper that uses red and green! This drawing balances these two colors and their many nuances beautifully. I think the composition is very strong and I particularly like the unusual perspective. Once again, I am struck by how the use of colored pencil is different between the still life objects and the table top. The presentation is simple, clean and strong.

I am so appreciative of receiving this recognition, and reading in Ms. Touhey's comments that some of the things I was excited to share through this piece actually came across. I can't help but wonder sometimes if what I'm seeing and feeling in the process of drawing or painting is just "me", or if others will get it too. That's the real prize!

The gallery was pretty packed, and it was great to spend some time with the other artists of the group. I'm enjoying getting to know them and marveling at all of their different styles and techniques!

'Young Eggplant' and Exhibit Details

2008-10-28T06:56:00.006-04:00

Here is my little silent auction entry for the upcoming exhibit; a young eggplant plant shyly displaying its first blossom. The colors of these plants are so striking in the garden, especially at this 'adolescent' stage.

Also, I wanted to share the details of the show, which opens this Saturday at the Spring Bull Gallery in Newport, Rhode Island.

"H2O" Artistic Interpretaion of Water
New England Chapter of the Colored Pencil Society of America

Opening Reception Saturday, November1, 2008 from 5 - 7:00 p.m.
Exhibition runs: November 1 - November 30, 2009
Gallery Night: Thursday, November 13th from 5-8pm

Members of the New England Chapter of the Colored Pencil Society of America will exhibit colored pencil works at the Spring Bull Gallery during the month of November. The exhibit, titled "H2O" incorporates each artist's interpretation of water.

This diversified exhibit will encompass a wide variety of colored pencil techniques and colored pencil mixed with other mediums. In conjunction with the exhibit, the chapter will be having a silent auction of 5x7" original colored pencil drawings that will last throughout the month. Come meet the artists and explore this unique art medium at the opening reception on Saturday, November 1, 2008 from 5-7PM. Exhibit runs November 1 - December 3 2008, and Newport Gallery Night is Thursday, November 13, 5-8 p.m.

Spring Bull Gallery located at 55 Bellevue Avenue in Newport, Rhode Island, is wheel chair accessible and open free to the public. Gallery hours are noon to 5PM daily. For additional information on this exhibition, future gallery events or member artists please call the gallery at 401-849-9166 or visit the gallery on-line www.springbullgallery.com.

# # #

5"x7", colored pencil on pastelbord

Morning Shadows

2008-10-21T13:25:00.004-04:00

Here is my second offering for the water themed show. This scene was so appealing to me, I just kept taking picture after picture as my grandson quietly played with some horseshoes at the edge of the lake. The shadows cast by the trees and the glistening ripples rolling in were creating these beautiful patterns and colors that were irresistible. Later, as I reviewed the images, I noticed that the stripes and print of his clothes were mimicking those natural designs. When the theme of 'water' was announced for this show, I knew I had to do this!

Again, I'm having trouble with a title. 'Morning Shadows' sounds sad to me. Something better will come to me, I hope.

20"x10", Prismacolor and Coloursoft Pencils on Ampersand Pastelbord

Water and Sunshine

2008-10-17T11:02:00.003-04:00

This piece is finally finished, and in the hands of a lovely local framer I just met last week. She is very kindly matting and framing my two entries for a group exhibit which opens on November first. Of course, they need to be delivered to the gallery a week before that, and, did I mention the second piece isn't finished yet? Yay Sylvie!

So, 'Water and Sunshine' is the title of the post, but I'm not sure if I like it as the actual title of the piece. I have a few days to think about it, but I eventually must write something on the entry label. 'Water Still Life #1'? (boring), 'Enamel Tray with Water'? (confusing?), 'Summer Tray'? (what does that mean?), 'Canning Jars, Water and Tomatoes'? (sounds like a list).

I'll be thinking about it as I finish the second piece, which is not a still life, nor a portrait, but something different (for me anyway). I'll post it next week!

16"x20", Prismacolor and Coloursoft colored pencil on Ampersand Pastelbord

Another Peek

2008-09-30T11:03:00.003-04:00

Here's another detail of my water themed still life, in progress. It has been waiting way too long for me to get back to it, but my plan is to have a finished piece by Sunday. The biggest challenge in this section will be that super bright sun reflection on the water in the pitcher. I really want it to zing the eye a bit. Wish me luck!

16"x20", Colored Pencil on Pastelbord (detail)

'Water' Work in Progress... A Peek

2008-09-12T11:05:00.002-04:00

This detail if from a still life I'm working on for a water-themed group show in November. I've always loved the variety of brilliance that results when sunshine and water meet. In this piece, I'll show that brilliance in, through, and on the surface of water, in glass jars and a pottery pitcher. The tomatoes and parsley are yet another product of water plus sunshine, and the swirling, free-form design of the vintage enamel tray seems to mimic water.

Perhaps I'll post the other three corners of this before showing the whole, finished piece!

16"x20", Colored Pencil on Pastelbord (detail)

Sweet Sisters

2008-07-03T14:05:00.005-04:00

Each of these portraits is about... oh, I'd say... 88% finished. I've been working on them both in a sort of back-and-forth fashion, which is unusual for me. As a rule, I tend to finish one piece completely before starting another, but since these will probably always be a pair, I decided to treat the two as one. They have been switching places on the drawing table for weeks now, taking turns, as sisters must often do!

By the way, if you know these two sweeties, don't tell their mom you saw them here until after her birthday!

8"x10", Prismacolor and Coloursoft pencils on Ampersand Pastelbord

Old Fashioned Blooms

2008-05-22T09:18:00.005-04:00

These double ruffled daffodils may have been blooming here for all of my old house's 107 years. I love the ragged forms, and the random green and orange touches within these blossoms. They are keeping company here with some budding twigs of flowering quince in a couple of old white grapevine-patterned pitchers. Set against the black tole painted tray and some vintage linens, I thought they looked sweet... yet striking.

6"x18", colored pencil on Ampersand pastelbord

Pastry Wheels & Pitcher

2008-04-30T08:29:00.005-04:00

These old pastry wheels have cut a lot of ravioli. Neither one really works any more, but they serve very nicely as models! I tried using them once, with the romantic notion that cutting my homemade ravioli with my grandmother's tools would transform them into "Nana's Ravioli". (Well, they do look like little magic wands!) They basically fell apart in my hand, as if to say,"We are done! Get your own pastry cutters!"

6"x6", Colored Pencil on Ampersand Pastelbord

Vinca

2008-04-21T20:41:00.003-04:00

Here is one of my favorite miniature pitchers... again. (It's the same one that Joseph is holding onto a few posts back.) The tiny vinca blossoms and vines were a good fit for this two inch tall container. These beautiful little flowers are blooming like blue stars in my front dooryard.

The snow is finally gone!

5"x7", colored pencil on Pastelbord

Two Teas

2008-04-16T13:09:00.003-04:00

I happened to set these two teapots next to each other in my kitchen one day, and immediately saw a still-life in the making. The shape of the quirky old flowery one was such a contrast to the modern silhouette, yet they shared that apple green color. It made me think of an old lady in her vintage dressing gown having a visit with her great-granddaughter.

What I regret now is starting this on paper, rather than ordering, and waiting for, an appropriately sized piece of pastelbord. I've heard the expression, "Your patience will be rewarded". I'd like to add to that, "... and your impatience will be punished"! This has taken me way longer than it should have, and it has some problems. The pastelbord allows me to layer lights over darks, and I guess I've become accustomed to that luxury. Here, I was stuck with some early color and value choices because the paper just doesn't have the tooth to grab the pencil once there's a layer in place.

Well, for what it's worth, here is "Two Teas". And now I will return to my pastelbord!

9"x12", colored pencil on Canson Mi-Teintes pastel paper

Forsythia

2008-04-01T18:54:00.004-04:00

A couple of weeks ago I cut some forsythia branches and put them in water because I was desperate for spring. I knew that eventually, something would sprout from those bare twigs. It was a joy to see the bright yellow blossoms, especially since there is still quite a bit of snow out there!

I will sharpen this up a little, but I like it at this stage too... soft and sketchy.

6"x6", colored pencil on Ampersand Pastelbord

Another Work in Progress

2008-03-28T19:14:00.005-04:00

My almost four year old grandson, Joseph, very graciously posed for me the other day. I told him my idea, of an assortment of pitchers on a cloth, with him peeking over the tabletop. He got right into it, wanting to do it immediately. I set up the pottery, and he stepped behind the table. Well, he was really too tall to just peek over, but before I said a word, he crouched down just enough to create the scene I had imagined. What a guy!

I plan to finish this up over the weekend. Seeing it in this format helps me identify those areas that still need work, even though the colors are kind of weird in this scan. The yellow wall is showing all kinds of oddball hue variations, and the "seam" is definitely showing. I'm not the best technician! Hopefully I'll find a way to show it more accurately when it is complete.

6"x18", colored pencil on Ampersand Pastelbord

I think it's done...

2008-03-19T19:48:00.003-04:00

Since my last post, when this was a work in progress, I took a little trip to visit my sister in New Jersey. (I put a sign on my studio door that read, "Precarious Still Life Set Up. Please Do Not Disturb!) Unfortunately, I brought the flu... or some such nasty bug... home with me, and as a result, wasted several days lying around like a lump. I finally made myself get back to work on this yesterday, and I felt much better right away!

Espresso & Lace/ work in progress

2008-03-07T10:20:00.004-05:00

I am going to be away from my studio for a few days, and I know I will feel the need to look at this once in a while, so I'm posting it here for myself! This is slightly cropped at top and bottom, almost fitting onto my scanner.

The pizzelle theme is continuing, despite the challenges these pieces present. (Tricky to render, difficult not to eat...) I have one or two more compositions "cooking" in my mind, and hope they will be an interesting subset in a body of work I'm currently putting together. More on that later!

9"x12", Prismacolor and Coloursoft pencils on Ampersand Pastelbord

Pitchers and Pizzelle

2008-02-27T20:29:00.005-05:00

Every time I make pizzelle with my grandmother's old pizzelle iron, I think, "These are so beautiful, I should paint them!"

Then, we eat them all.

So, the last time I made them, I put some in a tin and put them aside so they could have their portraits done. It's hard to believe, but I did not eat them ( luckily, I forgot about them!) and yesterday I started working on some still life set-ups. They are quite fragile, so I've been locking my studio door when I'm not in there, to keep out the cat. Also, they smell heavenly, and could easily tempt a hungry passer-by!

Here, I have grouped them with two little pitchers, which also belonged to my grandmother.

6"x6", Prismacolor and Coloursoft pencils on Ampersand Pastelbord

Bride & Groom

2008-02-12T09:23:00.001-05:00

Here is a commissioned portrait that I finished recently. The idea of adding the stained glass window to the background had me a bit concerned, at first. The strength and intensity of it could easily take over, and visually overpower the happy couple. I think that toning down the brightness of the glass colors and lightening the value of the leaded outlines between them kept the window "in its place".

This was a joy to create! I'm wishing many years of love and happiness to these newlyweds!

"Heather & Jeff", (crop), 11"x14", Prismacolor and Coloursoft pencils on Ampersand Pastelbord

Sophia in Summer

2008-01-30T11:17:00.000-05:00

Feeling the need for some warmth, I looked through some photos I took last summer, and found the inspiration for this little portrait. The day was not warm... it was HOT. Over 100 degrees. In the shade. My niece, Sophia, my two sisters and I spent a wonderful, yet sweltering, day together at Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania in mid-July. Just thinking about it makes me feel all happy and toasty!

5"x7", Prismacolor and Coloursoft pencils, on Ampersand Pastelbord

Sophia & Josh

2008-01-19T10:55:00.000-05:00

After finishing a half dozen pieces with Prismacolor pencils on the Ampersand Pastelbord, I was still undecided about continuing to use the boards. The process of matting these pieces for framing makes me a bit nervous, because of their weight and thickness. I haven't been able to find any guidelines for the best way of doing this, so I've resorted to what I would have to call a "Mickey Mouse" method, which involves lots of framer's tape and odd bits of matboard for support... an untidy mess hidden on the back side of the artwork and mat. If anyone has a good system for securely matting these boards, I would love to learn about it!

Anyway, I wanted to do this portrait of my niece and nephew together, but did not have a Pastelbord large enough on hand. I used a toned sheet of Canson Mi-Teintes pastel paper instead, and, while I'm pleased with the result, I really missed the toothy surface and the sturdiness of the board.

Materials aside, with this wonderful pair as my subjects, I have no complaints!

9"x12", Prismacolor pencil on Canson Mi-Teintes pastel paper

Vintage Portrait

2007-12-31T10:27:00.000-05:00

Here is a recent commission, drawn in graphite from a wallet-sized photograph. I really enjoy doing this sort of thing occasionally. There is something about creating a new, fresh version of an old image that can just delight people so much. It's always fun to see or hear about their reactions, and it feels good to know that my little pencil drawing will be appreciated in a very personal way, bringing memories of moments and even the sound of a voice long gone that I know nothing of.

8"x10", graphite

Winter Solstice

2007-12-21T06:45:00.000-05:00

The Turn

By a twist and a tilt
we go 'round the bend,
That some call beginning
and some call the end.
And some call the middle,
Whether going in or out.
By fact and by figure
there can be no doubt.

We have measured to the nth
and so we've found,
That now is the place
where the earth goes around.
A calendar face, a shadow on ground.

Marking an x
by this common connection,
Feel the rumble and turn,
Changing direction.
Worry one side might freeze
while the other might burn.
Yet we turn to perfection,
Though we mark it or not.
And bend 'round the bend
to a sunnier spot.

Len Faria

To mark the winter solstice, I am sharing this little collaboration; a poem, "The Turn", written by my brother, and a recent art card of mine, titled "Winter Solstice Sun".

Last but not least...

2007-12-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

My third and final grandson portrait for gift giving this Christmas. This was one of those times when, half-way through, it seemed like I was completely off, and was thinking of starting over. Luckily, I forged ahead, remembering how many times I've felt that frustration, only to be pleased in the end at the outcome. (Come to think of it, that happens in all sorts of places besides making art, doesn't it?)

I'm pretty happy with these three little portraits. Of course, the fact that these guys mean so much to me probably colors my perception a bit! They are a joy!

6"x6", Prismacolor pencil on Ampersand Pastelbord

Another Grandson... one more to go

2007-12-18T07:15:00.001-05:00

This is my oldest grandson; big brother to the cutie in my previous post. They are quite a pair! As these will be hung together, I chose poses with similar lighting, and kept the backgrounds simple. The third and final grandson portrait, which will be posted tomorrow, has a very different look, as you will see.

The Ampersand Pastelbord is definitely feeling more comfortable to me now, and I'm off to buy some more today, and a new batch of Prismacolor pencils as well... I've worn them down to the size where they become little art supplies for the two and three year old boys I have been drawing!

6"x6", Prismacolor pencil on Ampersand Pastelbord

My Youngest Grandson... and another tag!

2007-12-16T20:51:00.000-05:00

Here is a little colored pencil portrait of my youngest grandson. This is part of a Christmas gift for my son and his wife... the other part being a portrait of this adorable guy's big brother! I'll post it in a couple of days.

Now, it seems I've been tagged once again; this time by Alvin Richard, an amazing painter whose acrylic works often give me goosebumps! Previously, I was tagged by Robyn, and although I did tell some things about myself, I never got around to tagging other people. So, now I'll make up for it, and do it right.

1. I was fired from my first job, at the age of 16. It was at a "Friendly's" restaurant. The manager told me, "We were looking for a friendlier waitress."

2. I lived in the same house from birth to marriage.

3. When I turned 50, I celebrated by taking a hot air balloon ride. It took off in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, a short distance from the famous Portland Head Lighthouse, and traveled northwest toward Sebago Lake. There was a small plane flying around us at the beginning of the flight, and its passenger was a photographer for Conde Nast Traveler Magazine... taking pictures of us!

4. My husband and I share our house with a 20 pound cat.

5. My sisters and I played a game of Squiggles (... make a scribble, give it to someone, they make a picture out of it...) by mail, for years!

OK, here's who I'm tagging:
Cooper Dragonette
Gillian Mowbray
Nicole Caulfield
J Matt Miller
William K Moore

Thanks, Alvin!

6"x6", Prismacolor pencil on Ampersand Pastelbord

Hello Santa

2007-11-27T15:25:00.000-05:00

I have been busily working on a commission piece which will be done in a couple of days, and a few ACEOs as well. Three pencil portraits will be started next week, with several more to follow... and all will be complete by Christmas. I also want to give some gifts of art this year, and I truly hope I can do it all!

So, I have tacked up this Santa over my drawing table, with the idea that if I get everything done, he'll put something good in my stocking!

8"x10", Prismacolor pencil and acrylic paint on watercolor paper

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-14T11:31:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving Day is next week, so, of course, I've had pies on my mind. While I seriously doubt that I will have the time, patience, or frankly, the desire to meticulously carve out a pie crust like this, I really enjoyed illustrating the concept! It was good, too, to be reminded as I worked on this little piece, of some of the countless things I am thankful for. By the time the drawing and thinking were done, I was feeling exceedingly blessed!

Wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving!

(This little art card (ACEO) is one of my current listings on ebay. 2.5"x3.5" Prismacolor pencil on Bristol)

Grapevine

2007-11-01T14:42:00.000-04:00

This little drawing is for a wine bottle label. I had fun with these tendrils!

6"x6", Prismacolor pencils and ink on Bristol

Little Boy Found

2007-10-27T15:45:00.000-04:00

I have been spending quite a bit of time clearing and reorganizing my studio space lately. It was literally closing in on me, as I had allowed all sorts of non-studio items to rest here "temporarily". Realizing that I was working in a space with pathways through lots of random stuff, I was reminded that "temporarily" does not mean "indefinitely", and that all of that clutter wasn't just getting in the way of my feet, but also of my creativity and productiveness.

Progress has been made, and I'm breathing easier already. I'm making headway on a commission piece that had been languishing on a drawing table. I'm finding things I forgot I had, or thought were lost. For example, hidden in a stack of paper was a photo CD containing my only copy of this portrait. Seeing it brings back the joy of meeting, photographing, and drawing this serious and charming boy!

I will keep clearing.

Tagged? Who, me?

2007-10-25T15:00:00.000-04:00

It seems I've been tagged by my blogging friend, Robyn (of "Have Dogs Will Travel"), and I am supposed to share seven previously unrevealed things about myself. (This recent ACEO illustrates the situation pretty well. I am the cat, in my own little world, blissfully unaware of the imminent tag by the lovely smiling sun, which is Robyn!)

This should be easy, since I haven't revealed much so far anyway!

1. Come this Sunday, I will have been married for 34 years.

2. I have 3 sons, and 3 grandsons.

3. Never had my ears, or anything else, pierced.

4. Once made a turducken from scratch, assisted by my husband and sons.

5. Everything reminds me of a song, which plays in my head until it's replaced by the next one, etc., etc.

6. When I finish a bowl of ice cream, I always want more.

7. My mother gave me a long, cotton, Indian block-printed dress in 1972 for my 18th birthday, and I have worn it at least once every year since, around the time of my birthday.

Now, as far as tagging others goes... I'll have to do that later, and also find out how to do that tricky link thing! Thanks, Robyn, this was fun!

"Sun-Loving Cat" 2.5"x 3.5" Prismacolor pencil on Bristol

Tomatoes With Basil

2007-09-19T19:54:00.000-04:00

Another still life from my garden and my pitcher collection. I always found this pitcher to be a little bit odd. Its shape is unusual, it's slightly lopsided, and the design looks like a weird face when viewed straight on. But, I've been looking at it my whole life, so it's sort of like an eccentric relative, whom I love in spite of any shortcomings.

It is fitting that I post a basil "portrait" today, as I just finished making a big batch of pesto with most of my garden's basil crop. So, in recognition and appreciation, I dedicate this piece to the departed basil. It gave its life that we may enhance our pasta!

6"x6" Prismacolor pencil on Ampersand Pastel Board

Zucchini & Peppers With Fennel

2007-08-29T19:57:00.000-04:00

Straight from my garden comes this still life, with a little help from my pitcher collection.

I love the feathery fronds of the bronze fennel. The actual plant looks like a drawing itself outdoors, all sketchy and crosshatched, so I decided to draw it just that way. Its companion vegetables and the vintage pottery got a more solid approach. This was my second attempt at Prismacolor pencils on Ampersand pastel board, and I'm not really sure how I feel about it yet. All the little white spots that don't get covered on the textured surface are bugging me a bit, but over all, it's a nice soft look, I think.

6"x 6", Prismacolor pencil on Ampersand Pastel Board

"Cloud Cover Sun"

2007-07-10T20:10:00.000-04:00

Here's another ACEO with a story. I sketched this idea out in my sketchbook, and liked how it looked. When I did the actual card, however, the face in the clouds looked just like William Shatner, circa early Star Trek. Not really what I was going for. I modified him a bit, but once it was in my head, that likeness shone through no matter what I did. Even the elfin ears didn't do the trick... he just looked like James T. Kirk making fun of Mr. Spock. Then the sun's face, looking at him with those dramatic eyes, had me hearing voices... "She's an android, Jim!"

I listed the card. (No mention of Shatner) It was the first of this extensive series that did not get a single bid. I was going to tuck him away for future amusement, but I decided to relist instead, and he became my first European sale! So, Jim Kirk and his android girlfriend (or maybe it's Yeoman Rand?) are living in Brussels, Belgium now.

The End.

Montecatini Alto Welcome

2007-06-29T10:35:00.000-04:00

This little colored pencil piece is a birthday gift for my mother. I had the pleasure of traveling with her to Italy a couple of years ago, and we stayed in the little town of Montecatini. Our hotel was in Montecatini Terme, which is the "new" town, built around its thermal spas. Montecatini Alto is the "old" town, situated at the top of a hill, and we rode up there in the "funiculare" to explore one day. It was a magical day, all around... gorgeous weather, beautiful sights, lots of little surprises as we rounded corner after corner. We both really enjoy the distinctive doors and entryways that are so typically Italian, and I took quite a few photos of them that day. I hope looking at this brings her back to that lovely day!

This being an art journal, I should add that on that same day, we literally stumbled upon an other wonderful experience. We walked back from the funiculare station a different way, and saw a sign for an art academy. It appeared they were having some sort of exhibit having to do with Leonardo DaVinci, and we were trying to figure out, with our limited understanding of Italian, what exactly it was all about. The gate was closed and locked, and we were about to leave when a man came out and spoke to us. To make a long story short, we were able to come back a few hours later, to a side door where he let us in, even though the place was closed. We had this whole exhibit to ourselves, and it was like a dream! They had a large collection of Leonardo DaVinci's tiny little sketchbooks and journals! Fantastic!

(5"x7", colored pencil on Ampersand pastel board)

"Eleanor"

2007-06-27T21:01:00.000-04:00

Another recent pencil portrait... another pretty niece. I really loved how her beautiful curls fell like a curtain, allowing only a limited view of her face... but enough to know it is Eleanor.

Forever and Humbly Unfinished

2007-06-20T14:20:00.000-04:00

I don't know what possesses me sometimes. To set up a still life, with perishable fruit and delicate plant material, when I know I will not have enough uninterrupted time to finish, and I'm out of practice with acrylics... well, it's crazy, isn't it? Not to mention my failure to acknowledge the importance of preparation... of work space, materials (do I even OWN a decent brush right now?), or location of the set-up (within inches of an often-used door! Brilliant!).

So, the nectarines are brown and mushy, the leaves of the sweet woodruff are pointing DOWN, three brushes are on their way to the trash, and this little painting is not finished. But, here it is anyway! (6"x6", acrylic on masonite) The tiny yellow pitcher is a favorite object of mine. I'm thinking that my collection of pitchers would be a good theme for this summer's artwork, so expect to see them, in all their diversity!

Having had a little preview this past week of living and working with extra people in the house, I think it might be wise for me to stick with my colored pencils while we have a son, daughter-in-law, and two grandsons (ages one and a half and three) staying with us for the month of July. Yes, definitely.

"Sarah"

2007-06-16T09:25:00.000-04:00

Here is one of my commissioned portraits, done not too long ago. I always thought she was particularly sweet!

Topiary Garden Sun

2007-06-10T07:43:00.000-04:00

I'm still having fun with the prismacolor ACEOs. The ideas for these just keep streaming from my brain... or are they streaming TO my brain? I've received some very interesting messages from buyers about how they searched for a particular subject at a specific time, because of something that had happened to them personally, and one of my newly listed cards popped up. Some of the messages are cute or funny, and there are a couple that are downright mystifying!

Anyway, maybe this one will wind up with an interesting story. I worked the shapes of the topiaries and the face of the sun before really deciding on what route I would take with the rays. In the back of my mind, I was thinking simple geometric, and this grosgrain ribbon-like design is what happened. It wasn't until it was finished that I noticed the overall Engish feel... those rays suddenly reminding me of the Union Jack.

Spanish Bowl

2007-06-05T14:06:00.000-04:00

My intent here, with this journal, is to post new work on a regular basis. However, until I have something brand-spanking-new (other than the aforementioned ACEOs) I will share some older pieces. Perhaps looking at them myself, and realizing just how old some of them are, will embarrass me into action! I have cut, sanded, and gessoed some 6"x6" pieces of masonite. I'm sure it won't be long before I make a new start. (Just having those white squares looking at me expectantly each time I enter my studio will go a long way in the nudging department! I know, I'm pitiful!)

So, this still life painting, in acrylic on stretched canvas, was done... let's just say... quite some time ago! It holds a special place in my heart because whenever I look at it, I remember buying that bowl at a street market in Spain. It was meant to be a gift for someone, but it broke inside my suitcase, maybe somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean. I glued it, kept it, and it's really the only memento I have now of that trip.

Nasturtium Nosegay

2007-05-29T16:15:00.000-04:00

In preparation for some freelance work for a stationery company a while back, I needed a warm-up to reacquaint myself with my acrylic paints. It had been months since I had even opened my paint box, as I had been working on pencil and colored pencil portraits, which were keping me busy. I did a pencil sketch of these nasturtiums, and then painted right over it with the acrylics, just to get over my initial "paralysis". I expected the result to be a throw-away, really, but surprisingly, I quite liked it! The texture of the pencil lines on the rough paper peeking through the glazes, and remaining as an occasional outline, somehow pleases my eye.

...and now for something completely different

2007-05-25T10:21:00.000-04:00

A few months ago, I decided to try offering some of my work through ebay. I looked around at what others were doing, and thought the little ACEOs might be a fun way to stick my toe in the water. I had done some small colored pencil pieces years ago that I always liked, depicting fanciful suns and moons, and I decided to do a few new designs in this even smaller 2.5"x3.5" format. Their whimsy and resemblance to old book illustrations seemed a natural match to the miniature size. I figured I'd do a few and move on to something else.

OK, here's the thing. I just listed the 30th one in this series. I can't stop! The ideas just keep popping into my head, and I find the whole process very therapeutic. Maybe it's the novelty of working from my imagination, rather than from "life", which up to now has been a rare occurrence. It's fun! For now I'm looking at it like exercise... admittedly, kind of silly exercise... but exercise just the same.

I think I've done hundreds

2007-05-24T18:35:00.000-04:00

Over the last 35 years or so, I can safely say that I have done hundreds of portraits in pencil. It's just something I have always done, from the time I was a teen. I sketched my brothers and sisters, my parents and grandparents, my friends and neighbors. A few of these old drawings still hang in my mother's house... my sisters at age 6 and 14, one of my brothers at 16. They all have some gray hair now, but on the portrait wall they are forever young!

Pencil portraits were my main thing from the mid eighties to the mid nineties. I sketched so many local children that I couldn't keep them straight in my head. I would meet them in the store and feel bad that I didn't remember their names. I remembered the faces, though! I sometimes recognize adult people whose portraits I drew when they were 10 years old. I guess faces are forever, at least in my brain.

I still do portraits, because I just love faces! This beautiful face belongs to my niece, Grace.

It's A Start

2007-05-23T21:06:00.000-04:00

It's hard to know where to start! This is a colored pencil still life, called "Autumn Gold". It was sold at an auction to benefit a historic farm restoration project in the town where I grew up in Massachusetts. Prismacolor pencils are my most often used medium right now, and the still life is one of my favorite subjects, so this seems an appropriate first post.