Art Appreciation and Influences "Day of the Dead"

Art influences and art appreciation/emotions come in a variety of shapes and size. I have a special fondness for “Day of the Dead” celebrated in November.

It is said “The Day of The Dead” is a celebration and memorial of friends and loved ones that have passed away. What a great idea and tribute to family and friends!

Although I don’t work in this genre I appreciate the artists that do and their iconic paintings. You can see examples of artwork and folk art within my Etsy Treasury . . . Take a peak for some interesting artwork by fellow artists . . .

Original Watercolor and Ink Painting

I love the vitality of ink on paper. The roots appear to be in Asian calligraphy. Master Calligraphers can sometimes speak volumes with just one stroke.

While I was painting this flower I thought of ancient calligraphers and the beauty of Georgia O'Keefe floral painting.

"Alla Prima" Acrylic Painting and Art Favorites

Each painting has its own unique lesson and process. I always have to ask myself a series of questions regarding the subject, technique and why I want to paint.

This subject although floral reminded me of a group of people and I wanted to paint them from life. Like any group of interacting people I had to take my time and get to know these little flowers. Hmm, sounds so simple. . .


Today’s favorite artists:
I like the idea of painters like Henri Matisse and Georgia O’Keefe painting well into their eighty’s. The ability to grow and create work that was meaningful kept their spirit’s young . . .

See this painting and others in my Etsy Shop.

Original Watercolor and Ink Floral Still Life

These are examples of watercolor and ink paintings I completed today. The ink I'm using has a real organic feel to it.

It allows me to make the calligraphy strokes and shading within the leaves...

Original Acrylic Floral Painting

This painting is my method of capturing a moment. Currently it's a work in progress. I should finish by tomorrow.

It's overcast right now and I'm trying to get it right...

Art, Recovery, and Capturing the Moment

The news has had a lot of coverage regarding recovery and sobriety. I found this interesting blog “Alcoholic Outsider Artist.” It’s one man’s way of dealing with the issue. It’s great to see how other artist’s express themselves. It feels as though the artist with a stroke of the brush is capturing his experience.

Although I’m not an outsider artist, my goal is to be present and capture the subjects and moments that are important to me. My guess is I'm not alone in this area.

Art Resources and Original Acrylic Floral

Although my medium of choice is acrylics or ink I search for art solutions in different areas..

I love the library. I know the web is an extraordinary resource but I like the feel and touch of books, especially art books. I came across “Alla Prima” by Richard Schmid. Mr. Schmid is an oil painter but his down to earth ideas and insights could apply to different types of mediums.

His paintings are grounded in a strong foundation and have a lively spirit. Hmm, I’m not an art critic but I sure enjoyed his book and images...

Today's painting is taken from around the house. I love the wonderful pink of the flower but neutralized the background. Just click shop and find more information regarding this original painting.

Light and Dark Influences in Art

The Sun is out. I’m glad. The “June Gloom” is ended.

Beside the Sun, another favorite influence of mine regarding dark and light is the Italian artist Caravaggio. It seems whether you have studied in an academic setting or is self-taught we’re all influenced by nature and art masters that have come before us . .

I guess it’s a continuation of yesterday’s comments. I love art history. Art masters and their lessons live on in their paintings. Note: This is an Liquitex acrylic painting on a canvas panel.

The Sea and Abstract Art Influences

I had been thinking of this seascape for a while. The underlying influence’s is the sea and abstract art. I appreciate art history and made a connection with the “fields” of color within the ocean and abstract interpretation of color.

I can remember years ago seeing Mark Rothko’s huge abstract paintings. When I saw them, I felt like I was in a church. I don’t know what it was but I had one of those “Aha” moments.

Well, this is my original small format interpretation of nature and respect for the abstract artist’s that have come before me. (Acrylic on RayMar panel)