Lush transparent darks...

Thomas Eakins

Instructors I have studied with over the past few years talk quite a bit about keeping the darks in a painting transparent. Until recently I hadn't realized how crucial this is. If the darks are too opaque they become flat and dull. When the shadows are transparent the illusion of depth is reinforced and creates a sense of movement. Thomas Eakins is a master of rich shadows as you can see in the painting "the Champion Single Sculls".

Dust has settled...

The show has been up for two weeks now. I'm just starting to get back into a routine. Teaching takes up a large chunk of my time, which makes it challenging to get enough studio time. Thank goodness for a loving supportive family.

New paintings

I just finished these yesterday.

It's interesting to play the vibrant colors off of the neutrals.

Spring Retreat with Painting Buddies

Four days of much need R&R and creative inspiration. My POBL (Painters of Bumping Lake) buddies are amazing!

Successful Solo Show Opening!!!

Hooray! My first solo show is going very well. The opening was Friday Feb 27th and was a great success, eleven paintings sold. Needless to say my head was spinning and the whole thing was a bit surreal. I thought I would take some time off in March to regroup but found after two days away from the studio I couldn't stay away so... I'm back at the easel and working on a new batch of paintings. I hope to post images soon.

The pears sold!