Jean Hutter - The Artists View from here

Two New Watercolors

2012-01-22T14:38:00.002-05:00

Painted with the ladies on Thursday afternoon and finished these 2 watercolors. I really want to do some abstract on canvas - if it was warmer I could paint in the garage - but it is pretty cold right now. This is the price I paid when I moved and gave up my studio but I will work around it. Good thing I LOVE my new house.

Two Watercolors

2012-01-12T15:27:00.000-05:00

I painted today with the ladies at Four Seasons. I did these two watercolors. I have been wanting to paint snow - even thought we do not have any so I finally did a snow painting. I really want to go back to painting abstract for awhile - I want to paint in acrylic on canvas BIG - soon I hope. I have some new ideas I want to try out. I am getting bored with these watercolors ; (

2012 Invitational Show “Abstract Interpretions.”

2012-01-07T13:08:00.002-05:00

I am participating in this abstract show and the opening is tonight. I am bringing my camera and will post photos tomorrow. Here is the press release.

Abstract Interpretations Invitational at Art Alliance

The Art Alliance of Monmouth County announces its annual 2012 Invitational Show “Abstract Interpretions.” This year’s show is curated by Oceanport artist, teacher, and gallery owner James Kent.

Kent has taught the Lyrical Abstract Expressionism painting class at the Guild of Creative Art in Shrewsbury since 2005. In 2007, he opened ABstract EXpressions Contemporary Art Gallery in Mount Holly, NJ as a venue to showcase contemporary abstract art. There have been more than 24 exhibitions featuring the works of nearly 60 artists at the Gallery since its opening.

Kent has invited twenty-one artists to participate in this year’s show. The invitees include artists he knows from Monmouth county as well as artists from southwest New Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area that he has met since opening his Gallery. These artists are working in a variety of highly personal and individual styles within the framework of contemporary abstract expressionism. A wide variety of media – paintings, collages, mixed media works, and sculptures – is represented in this show.

“I am honored to have been asked to put together this show,” says Kent. “Each of these artists has a distinctly individual vision, yet the works establish a rapport with each other that is enjoyable and instructive to explore.”

An opening Meet the Artists reception will be held on Saturday, January 7, from 6-8 PM at the Art Alliance, 33 Monmouth Street, Red Bank. The public is cordially invited. The show runs from January 7 through February 1.

The Art Alliance is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon until 4:00 PM. For more information, contact the Art Alliance at (732) 842-9403 or visit www.artallianceofmonmouth.org.

Two New Watercolors for 2012

2012-01-06T16:55:00.001-05:00

This is my first post for 2012. I painted yesterday - I had planned on painting snow but did these two instead. I am in a great exhibit opening tomorrow in Red Bank, NJ at the Art Alliance - I am going to take a ton of photos.

Helen Frankenthaler

2011-12-29T09:10:00.002-05:00

My artist friend Sheila sent me an e-mail the other night telling me of Helen Frankenthaler's passing. I am glad she did because I did not read anything about it in the news or did I see it on the network news shows. I have to wonder why - I guess there is too much happening with the Kardashians or Lady GaGa for anyone to care about Helen Frankenthaler. I did not love all of her work but she was an amazing artist. I have a large book of her work and I love to sit and look through it - it is a treasure. We have lost another great artist - sigh!

Two New Abstract Paintings

2011-12-01T16:32:00.003-05:00

Its been a long time since I have posted any abstract work - I have painted just not taken photos. I am in my new house and have yet to find that perfect spot to photo my art work. I took these 2 pictures today and the pics are not that great but they are OK. The first painting is 48X36 and very textured. The coloring on this is quite different for me - I do not usually work in green. The second is 36X36 and a more comfortable color pallet for me. I am happy with both paintings. They may both be going to an exhibit in January - we shall see.

Watercolors

2011-11-18T11:01:00.004-05:00

So I ended up doing some watercolor painting yesterday. Painted these two - not what I planned but this is what I did. They are both listed in my Etsy Shop. I really am feeling the need to do some abstract work - I will need to do that in the garage I guess - I better get going before it get too cold here in NJ to be in the garage.

Two New Watercolors

2011-11-17T12:06:00.003-05:00

Well almost new - I painted these two plus another one last Thursday with the painting ladies here at Four Seasons. We are not meeting again for 2 weeks so I may paint a little on my own - I sometimes miss my studio but I do love my new house. It is grey and rainy here and that is what I feel like painting - we shall see what I come up with. I also feel like doing some abstract work but that requires some big space for a big canvas - hmmmmmm. These two watercolors are available in my Etsy shop plus lots of others have a look here.

More Watercolor

2011-10-21T08:47:00.003-04:00

I am back to my shore, mountain images again - I guess fall was short lived for me this year. I started painting a snow scene yesterday - don't think that's too good - I hate winter. I am also painting my abstracts with the Monday night group and painted an awesome 48X36 this past Monday - I need to photograph it - I am not sure where the best place to do photos is yet now that I am in my new house - I guess I will have to experiment a bit. I am just so glad I finally nailed an abstract - it's about time ; )

New Fall Watercolors

2011-09-30T14:04:00.004-04:00

The trees were starting to change last weekend in PA so I am in a Fall kind of mood. Painted these two yesterday afternoon. I am waiting to paint snow although I don't like snow I sure do like painting it!

Two New Watercolor Landscapes

2011-09-27T10:51:00.002-04:00

Well it sure has been a long time since I blogged about my art or anything else for that matter. I moved in March and spent the summer in PA and have not been doing too much creatively. I am now back in NJ and joined a painting group here in our development. I will probably just paint watercolor here but I plan on resuming painting with my Monday night abstract group soon. So we paint here on Thursday afternoon - it is a do your own thing group. I haven't painted in such a long time I was out of practice. I decided to try some Maine type of landscapes. I finished these two this past week. I was up in PA over the weekend and the trees are changing so maybe I will try to paint some fall scenes this coming Thursday. For not working in such a long time I am pretty happy with these two and I really enjoyed making art again.

Drawing by Edie Hodge Pletzner

2011-01-07T18:28:00.004-05:00

Since I have decided to feature some of the art work I have in my collection this is the second installment. This is a drawing of me by Edith Hodge Pletzner - it was done at an art B&B in Greenville NY. Edie, my friend Jane Betz and I used to do two art retreats (spring and fall) every year. I had long hair that I wore in braids and was sitting one afternoon at lunch looking at the woods and Edie did this quick sketch of me. The photo is not great as the sketch is framed under glass. Edie is a wonderful painter and portrait artist, I also have a pastel that she did in NY on one of our art get-a-ways. I treasure both of her sketches.

New Abstract - Benediction

2011-01-06T23:07:00.002-05:00

This is my second painting of 2011 or the "B" painting. Benediction - 30X30 - acrylic on canvas. I am very happy with this one - I love the color, especially the red in the upper left. I love the movement and the drama - this one is a keeper. I also did some beading today - all in all a very creative day - a Queen of Wands day. I hope the creative streak continues - I am much happier when I am painting well.

First Abstract of 2011

2011-01-04T18:36:00.005-05:00

This is my first painting of the new year. It is called Authenticity and is 28X22 acrylic on canvas. I have decided to go through the alphabet in naming my paintings - so this is the A painting. I open the dictionary to the letter section - A in this case - and pick a name from that page of the dictionary. This sure solves my naming problems. If I get all the way to Z in 2011 I will start back up at A. Nice warm colors in this painting - maybe because I went to the market today and was inspired by the veggies and fruit but I must say I am more partial to earth toned paintings - actually I tend to just paint in whatever color is left over from the previous day. It will be interesting to see how far I get into the alphabet this year - I do paint fast and I do paint a lot so Z is not out of the question ; )

As I look at this painting I see the letter A in the top left portion - this was by accident but maybe I will put the letters in the paintings - hmmmmm.

Watercolor by Lucile Geiser

2010-12-28T14:25:00.003-05:00

Not only do I paint but I own a lot of work by other artists. I have decided to post some photos of these paintings on my blog. This first one is a seascape by Lucile Geiser. Lucile was a very well known artist here at the NJ shore and in Naples Maine. When I first started painting I did realistic watercolors and studied with Lucile for a lot of years. I owe so much to Lucile - she gave me a great foundation in watercolor, composition, color and art theory. She was happy when I moved on to painting abstract and considered it a good move for me. This photo is not that great as the painting is framed under glass. Lucile was a prolific painter and to see her paint was inspiring - she was a wonderful teacher. I wish I owned more of her paintings!

Merry Christmas - 2010

2010-12-25T09:11:00.004-05:00

Poinsettia - Mixed Media on Paper

Year End - Abstract

2010-12-22T15:21:00.003-05:00

This could be my final painting for 2010 or maybe not ; ) It is called Year End - 36X36 - acrylic on canvas. I repainted this one 3 or 4 times and I am still not sure I am happy with it or if it is really finished - but for now it is. I am back to the neutral colors - I think it is the winter and the light. I want to do some beading - I have a collar I started in PA that needs finishing and I just bought a new tarot book that needs reading. Year end (not this painting) for me is a time of reflection on the past and a time for setting goals for the coming year. 2011 should be an interesting year - especially if I sell this house and buy a new house - just the move alone is going to be a huge task. I also need to make some artistic decisions about going forward and just where forward is. I better get to reading that tarot book!

Vision of the West - Abstract

2010-12-21T18:46:00.002-05:00

Well 2010 is winding down and so is my painting for this year. This is one I finished on Sunday 30X24 - Vision of the West - acrylic on canvas - and I finished one last night that I will post tomorrow. I am already planning my alphabet series for 2011 - not that the look of the art will change at all - just the titles. I wasn't sure about this one but now that I look at it I really like the subdued coloring and the overall calm feeling. This is a very different color pallet for me as I seem to be painting in neutrals this winter. Maybe I will brighten up for 2011 - that would be a nice change.

Two New Abstract Paintings

2010-12-18T17:32:00.002-05:00

These are two new abstracts - the top image is called Standing in the West - acrylic on canvas 22X28. The bottom image is called Dreaming Pool - acrylic on canvas - 24X20. I painted these 2 the other night and am just getting around to posting the photos on my blog. Well they are very different in color and feeling - good thing because sometimes abstracts can all start to look the same. Did some painting today but I am not happy with the painting so far - it is kind of stringy and unorganized - I will work more on it tomorrow it is rather large 36X36 but still needs a lot of work.

Horsing Around - Abstract

2010-12-15T16:04:00.003-05:00

This is the painting I did at my Monday night art group - after I finished it and we all were looking at and discussing our work this painting had a very distinct horse shape in it. It was the type of horse you see in the cave paintings. At first I kind of liked it and thought it was interesting and it could stay but after further thought all I could see was the horse - so needless to say the horsey had to go. I painted it out but decided a great name for this painting would be Horsing Around - 30X24 - acrylic on canvas. Monday was the last session for our group for 2010 - I will take off from the group until some time in March - when it is less cold - I am a wintertime sissy.

Silver Lining - Abstract

2010-12-14T10:39:00.003-05:00

Another new abstract - this one is called "Silver Lining" - acrylic on canvas 30X30. I cannot believe how many paintings I have completed this year. I went to my Monday night art group last night and I painted a really great abstract. I took some photos but they are still in the camera until later today. I have a name for the painting and an interesting story about the name. I will probably post tomorrow.

So 2010 is coming to an end and I have a great idea for a series for 2011. Since I always have a hard time picking names for my abstracts I am going to start at A and try to go through to Z - picking the names - if I happen to make it to Z I will start back from A again. I am thinking of going to the dictionary and picking one word titles. I think this will be an interesting experiment ; )

Gray Day Atlantic - Abstract

2010-12-12T18:24:00.003-05:00

It is a gray damp day here in NJ - I live about 15 minutes or so from the ocean and I love gray foggy days. I love the color of the water and the flatness of the light. I didn't go have a look at the water today, no time - but this painting reminds me of a gray day at the ocean - it feels cool and damp to me. It does have some strange shapes in it but I can live with that - makes it interesting. It is even cool and damp in the house - I would love a nice fire but all the wood is too wet ; (

Common Threads - Abstract

2010-12-10T18:54:00.002-05:00

I painted this smaller abstract yesterday. It is called Common Threads 22X28 acrylic on canvas. I especially like this painting and I painted it in under an hour. Sometimes the best are created quickly. I have painted a lot of canvases this year - I need to see what the actual number is but it has been a productive year - well not so much the summer but since I have come home from PA. My problem is storing all the canvas - when I used to paint on paper this wasn't as much of a problem BUT I love painting on canvas so I can live with the storage problem for now. Need to start selling ; ) I am not a happy camper today - bad case of the blues.

Slipstream - Abstract

2010-12-09T08:42:00.003-05:00

This is another new abstract - a bit smaller - Slipstream 24X20 acrylic on canvas. I think it is about time to squeeze out some new colors - I am getting sick of painting in the neutrals of winter. Maybe some nice hot sunny colors is what I need - it sure has been cold here in NJ this past week and next week more of the same. I think it is going to be a long cold winter - great name for a painting.

Winter Approaches - New Abstract Painting

2010-12-07T15:02:00.003-05:00

I have been sick with a cold for the past few days but still managing to paint. This is one of three new abstracts called "Winter Approaches". It is 30X30 acrylic on canvas. I may hate winter and cold but I love the color or should I say lack of color this time of year - I love the cool and warm grays and I especially love the quality of light. I seem to respond to the colors around me and right now I am loving painting in neutrals especially mixing the grays and using the cool white and off whites. I will be posting the other two paintings soon I like all three.

360 Tour Of My Studio

2010-12-05T17:32:00.005-05:00

So I decided to try my hand at making a video - I thought a good start might be my studio. So you would think if I am going to make a video tour of my studio I would clean it up a bit - no such luck. The video idea was pretty impulsive today and it is not so good, but it is my first try. I think I could have fun doing this with my art work and even the cats - I just hope I get better at it ; ) I have a cold so I sound more nasally than usual - if that is a word??

Holiday Image

2010-12-03T09:07:00.004-05:00

So I was thinking of sending out a year end e-newsletter - but I really don't have much news to report and I don't know if that is good or bad. Anyway I am thinking more of an e-holiday/year end greeting. This is the image I created last night. I tested it by sending it to a few friends and am awaiting feedback. The image I am sending is smaller than this one and I may swap out different paintings - not sure yet - but I better decide soon before it is 2011.

New Abstract

2010-12-02T10:22:00.004-05:00

Actually I guess I should say reworked abstract - acrylic on canvas 36X36. This was a painting that was just not working - something about it bothered me, so yesterday I attacked it and the painting above is the result. I am much happier with it now. I felt the original was spotty and this new version holds together so much better - in person it is awesome - it is on the wall of my studio now and looking good. I am painting with some new color combinations - more neutral I guess and I like the results. I think this may be because of the winter and lack of color and the grey days. I love the quality of the light in the winter months and the lack of green - which is not one of my favorite colors to work with. Think I am going to paint today - I am inspired.

Free To Fly - Abstract

2010-11-30T15:16:00.002-05:00

Not to be confused with flying for free - nothing is free but aggravation! I painted this new abstract last night - Free To Fly - acrylic on canvas 36X36. I am thinking this might be a break through painting for me because it is closer to where I envision my work going. It has a lot of energy and is light and airy. I love the movement and colors in this one - I sure hope it is not a fluke. I like it so much I submitted it to a show for next year - I hope it gets in I will know in late December.

Between the Tides - Abstract Painting

2010-11-22T15:26:00.002-05:00

Here is the latest abstract called "Between The Tides" - acrylic on canvas 24X36. This painting reminds me of looking at a map or the land from above - land and water formations. I like the movement and coloring in this painting it has a nice flow.

Sand Bar - Abstract Painting

2010-11-20T19:38:00.002-05:00

I painted this abstract "Sand Bar" a few days ago. It is acrylic on canvas 36X36. I have mixed feelings about it - I wanted to paint a very hi-key painting but ended up adding quite a few dark areas to this one. I am not sure if it is spotty or not but it sure looks good hanging on the wall in my studio - so for now I will leave it be. I just wish I had some direction in my life right now. I am trying to sell one house and buy another - and nothing is happening - so I wait. I also have mixed feelings about my painting - as much as I tout my marketing efforts I wonder if it is worth it. Sometimes I think I should just quit painting, quit making jewelry and just veg out. Life sure would be simpler but would I be happy - I am not sure. During the summer when I am in PA I don't do much - I go to the beach, read, walk and just live - no pressure to paint or create anything - and I am happy there. Or maybe this is just an excuse not to market and approach Galleries - hmmmm. My painting has a lot to do with what type of house I need to buy - I need space to paint - I paint in acrylic on canvas and I paint a lot of canvases - I need room to paint and lots of room to store paintings. If this wasn't an option I could look at smaller, less expensive houses. I am like a dog chasing it's tail ; (

The Business of Art

2010-11-18T15:17:00.002-05:00

As I have said I love to paint but not market. I have come to a point in my artistic career where it is time to take it up a notch or throw in the brushes. Since I have the need to create and painting is what I love to do most I decided to get organized and try my hand at some marketing.

My first step was to buy the book "Starving to Successful" by Jason Horejs. I really love this book and it has given me so many great ideas and tips that I am already starting to implement.

The first thing I wanted to accomplish was to get together a hard copy portfolio. I am pretty good about photographing my finished artwork so I had that step already completed. I bought an Itoya 8 X11 1/2 portfolio to use. I printed out a bunch of my paintings with accompanying info, updated my art bio and artist statement. I printed out my exhibit listing and a few show and newspaper articles. I have to say the portfolio looks pretty impressive. I will also make up some digital portfolios on CD but I wanted a hard copy for myself to have with me in my travels.

I already have a web page and it is up to date with current work. I added a counter/tracker from StatCounter.com to better analyse visitors. It was easy to install, is invisible and does just what I wanted - I am happy and now tracking visitors to my web page - www.jeanhutter.com.

I also want to send out an e-newsletter, I am thinking maybe quarterly. I wanted to add a sign up form to my web page. I created the code to add the form to the contact page of my web site from EmailMeForm. This was easy to install and does just what I want and I am happy with it - who could ask for more ; )

The next and biggest step is to get a handle on my art inventory. I paint on both canvas and paper and have a lot of finished art work. I had some of the paintings in an excel spread sheet but I wanted a bit more control that that. I researched a few Art Inventory products and decided on Flick! - I chose this one for a number of reasons. First it does just what I wanted tracks my art work, a contact list, produces reports and so much more. Some of the other products I looked at had so many features I didn't want or need - they were very complex and expensive - which brings me to the second reason I opted for Flick! - it was only $29.95 - a bargain. I first downloaded a trial version and played with it a bit to see how I liked it - I also downloaded another product to compare - Flick! was my choice. I am slowly entering my artwork - what I love is I can have an image of each piece, I can track where a painting is and has been and do all sorts of neat stuff - I am such a computer geek!!!! Next I will start entering my contact list and a few other odds and ends.

The bottom line here is contacting galleries - so am I procrastinating with all this organization - I don't think so. I feel now is my time - now or never.

Lakeville - New Abstract Painting

2010-11-17T19:29:00.002-05:00

This is the other painting from last week. It is acrylic on canvas 30X24 and I LOVE it, I love the colors, the movement, the excitement - well everything. I painted this one rather quickly and I find that the quick ones are usually the best - no time to over think them. This painting is in my Etsy Shop here. I named it Lakeville after a town near my summer house in NE Pennsylvania. I am continuing to add my canvases to my new inventory product which I will blog about tomorrow. I am getting so organized - about time ; ) I also have news about a great exhibit I will be seeing next week - I am so excited - NE Corridor by artist Malcolm Bray. He is my favorite artist right now and I cannot wait to see his work live and in person. I really wish I was going to the opening tomorrow night but I will be seeing the show next Wednesday - probably better, not crowded so I can study the work close up.

Bits and Pieces - Abstract

2010-11-17T08:08:00.002-05:00

Another new abstract from last week - gee I have only painted one so far this week - but then again I am into the marketing thing ; ) Really strange color in this one - I thought it might be bordering on "sweet" but somehow I think it works, actually it is quite textured and complex in real life. I have one more from last week to post and need to photo the one from this Monday. I am busy getting my painting inventory under control and I bought a great product to help do this which I will blog about soon - I am loving it. I am entering all the work on canvas first - lot of it but it is a chance to go through all my work and evaluate it. I can't imagine starting the works on paper - oh my - that will be a BIG task.

Rock Lake - New Abstract

2010-11-15T12:41:00.003-05:00

Well my marketing efforts are all well and good but I also need to produce art work so I have something to market - get it ; ) This is a small abstract on canvas 18X24 which I finished last week. It is smaller than I like to work but hey I had the canvas. Actually this is my new favorite painting. I love the freedom of the line work and the great color combinations. These are colors I do not usually use and I managed to pack a lot in a small area without it looking too busy. I think it is a fun painting and I named it after a lake in PA. It is in my Etsy Shop here.

Art Guide Book

2010-11-14T15:40:00.004-05:00

I have not run away never to be seen or heard from again - not by a long shot. I am alive and well and working on art marketing - yea that's right me "marketing". As you know I love to paint but market not so much and that has got to change. I purchased this book "Starving" to Successful by Jason Horejs from Xanadu Gallery. I am slowly reading the book and highly recommend it. It is full of great advice about selling your art from a real honest to goodness gallery owner. I have learned so much already and am only half way through the book. I have already made a hard copy portfolio of my work and I am getting my painting inventory in order. Next I will be creating a mailing list and USING it. A few other things I want to get started is an e-newsletter, networking, entering more shows both physical and on-line, maybe an open house at my studio and doing some realistic gallery research. This book was just what I needed to get me moving in the right direction in my marketing efforts - which were nil up until this point. As they say, people are not going to come knocking on your door - you have to get your name and your work out there - so look out art world here comes Jean Hutter- Artist.

Color Thoughts

2010-11-03T19:11:00.005-04:00

I started this painting on Monday night with the Abstract group - it was a disaster. I was not feeling great and had no energy and my painting showed this. I wanted to get back to it right away just to prove I hadn't lost my touch - so yesterday morning I repainted most of what I had done the night before and here is the result - it is called Caravan and is acrylic 30X24 on canvas. I have been thinking lately about my current color choices and how my location affects my use of color. When I was in PA this summer it was so much green, grey and blue and that was the colors I used to paint. Now I am back in NJ and it is fall and the color is glorious - I am painting in orange, golden yellow, pinks, light blue and well much brighter, lighter colors. My paintings feel much happier and are so much more colorful. I am liking this change and I think it is an improvement - I wonder what winter will bring?

ABstract EXpressions Gallery

2010-11-02T13:04:00.002-04:00

Just a quick post about an amazing art gallery here in NJ. ABstract EXpressions Gallery at 70 High Street, Mount Holly, NJ - was established in 2007 as a venue to showcase the finest contemporary abstract art by regional and national artists.

The Gallery began by displaying abstract paintings and this continues to be its primary focus. In recent months the Gallery's compass has expanded to include ceramics, sculpture, and furniture. Each artist whose works are shown in the Gallery has a distinctly individual vision, yet the objects displayed establish a rapport with each other which is always enjoyable and instructive to explore. The Gallery gives visitors the opportunity to see and study contemporary abstract art exclusively and purchase it for their own collections.

If you are in the Mount Holly area stop in for a visit - you will be happy you did and you will come away with a better understanding and appreciation of abstract painting.

Indian Summer - Abstract

2010-10-30T18:59:00.002-04:00

Finished this abstract today - called it Indian Summer. It is acrylic on canvas 24X36. Today was a windy day but still nice - cold front coming in tomorrow and it is suppose to get much cooler so I guess Indian Summer will be over. Lots of leaves still left to fall off our trees - Richie was on leaf blowing duty today - such a major job every year. Halloween tomorrow ; )

Into Thin Air - Abstract

2010-10-27T19:04:00.004-04:00

I finished this abstract painting "Into Thin Air" - acrylic on canvas 22X28 on Sunday. I actually finished 2 paintings Sunday - I was on a roll. I really like this painting and the thing that I find most striking about it is that it has an element of airiness to it. I like the open unencumbered space in this painting. I do not always achieve this feeling and I have to celebrate it when I do. I think the colors also add to the feeling of air - it reminds me of a ski lift high up above the mountains. I have been very busy these past few days and I am actually getting things done - an update to my web page, getting my art inventory updated and adding art to my Etsy Shop and oh yea - doing some great painting too - life is good.

Abstract on Canvas

2010-10-20T17:07:00.002-04:00

This is the second painting I did at the Monday night art group. This painting is 24X30 on canvas. It is unusual colors for me - I hardly ever use purple and green and together unheard of! I am painting very well lately I hope this trend lasts. I am reading an article about Richard Diebenkorn it is very interesting - I love his work I would say he is one of my greatest influences these past 3 years or so. I find his work fascinating and could study it endlessly. I always find something new in his paintings.

Abstract - On Canvas

2010-10-19T23:54:00.003-04:00

This is one of two paintings I did last night with the Monday night abstract group. I like this a lot - I started this painting in PA over the summer but was never satisfied with it - I am now. I took this photo outside on my deck in the sun today and it is a great photo - the colors are true and that turquoise is very hard to photo. Why have I never taken my photos outside in the sun before - I always took them in the shade - hmmmm the photos I took today are all terrific - see I can still learn something ; ) I love the color and rhythm of this painting it has a nice flow and is easy on the eyes. Some of my newest work is a little raw but not this one - I would love to do 100 more like this one.

Art Opening at the Noyes Museum

2010-10-09T19:34:00.003-04:00

I went to the Noyes Museum of Art last night with my friend Sheila Grabarsky. We are both signature artists at the museum and last night they held a Celebrate the Fall Season Exhibition Opening - talk to exhibiting artists, view exciting new works and enjoy light refreshments. The exhibitions included: the Signature Artists Exhibition; Jacob Landau: Artist and Humanist; Suenos: Contemporary Latin American Art and Srebrenica.

It was a wonderful night - the weather was beautiful and they had a very nice crowd. The outdoor deck overlooking the lake was lit up with candles and lights and was just amazing. The top photo is me and my painting the second Sheila and her painting. I brought my camera and as usual was to busy socializing and forgot to take photos - why is that??

I thought the signature exhibition was very strong - there are some very exciting paintings included this year. I have to say how proud I am to be associated with the Noyes - it is a wonderful, professional museum - well worth the trip to Oceanville for a look. It is very close to Atlantic City for all you gamblers. The exhibit will be on display until November 28, 2010.

Art Buddy

2010-10-08T11:45:00.004-04:00

Flying Dog 24" x 36" mixed media © 201 0 Sheila Grabarsky

I can never stress how important it is to have art buddies. I am going to an opening tonight at the Noyes Museum with one of my favorite artist Sheila Grabarsky . Sheila is one of the best painters I know and she is such an inspiration for me. I got an e-mail from her the other day and she was writing about her painting session and she mentioned how great it was going but she knew if she didn't stop that she was probably not going to get to ride her bike, which was very important to her that day. This got me thinking of priorities - something that I am very lax about doing. I think it is wonderful that riding her bike was so important to her - that she was setting time aside to do something that was enjoyable and good for her health. I constantly complain about wasting time, having no time, feeling lousy, not getting anything done - could it be that I do not set priorities and at least TRY to meet them?

The two paintings in this post are both by Sheila - just a sample of how dynamic and exciting her work is. She is truly one of the most dedicated and professional artists I know and she is also quite successful. I am so looking forward to having dinner, talking art and seeing a great show at the Noyes Museum with my art buddy. Why don't you go take a look at Sheila's web site to see a lot more of her fantastic paintings - ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONIST PAINTINGS by SHEILA GRABARSKY .

New Abstract

2010-10-07T22:05:00.002-04:00

So it's about time I started blogging here again. It seems the summer went by in a blur - a blur of not doing much. I did paint a bit in PA but now that I am home I want to work a little more seriously - and then there is the marketing - sigh!!! This is a painting I started in my Monday night group and finished the next day at home - at least I think it's finished. It is acrylic on canvas 30X40. I guess I will have to live with it for awhile. I have it hanging on my studio wall where I can study it - so far my feeling is it is a pleasant painting, not my usual color choices, not too exciting. I just do not know where the time goes every day - I have so much to do and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed. I had a "TO DO LIST" today with 7 items - my goal cross off 3 - well I ended up crossing off half of a line - not good progress. Sometimes I think if I didn't paint or make jewelry I would be happier - well I would be less pressured. Not sure what the answer is - not sure what the question is either ; ) Opening tomorrow night at the Noyes Museum - I am in the signature members show there.

Abstract and Some Thoughts

2010-08-09T20:33:00.003-04:00

This is a new abstract on paper 22X30 acrylic. I thought I would just use up the wet paint on my pallet so I got a blank sheet of watercolor paper and just started painting. I named this one Gravity - which is the name of an area here near the lake. There was a Gravity Railroad in this area in the 1800's. Pretty interesting and a good name for my painting. I like the simplicity of the design and coloring of this painting and it was a good way to use up my paint.

Lake Series Abstract

2010-07-25T09:57:00.003-04:00

New abstract Thunderstorm Over The Lake 22X28 on canvas. We have been having a lot of storms this past week - dark skies, thunder, wind and lots of hard rain. I tried to capture this feeling in my painting. I have been painting in such different colors here in PA - it is so green here and that is all I see when I sit on my deck overlooking the lake and when we drive around the roads here - it is very rural and I love it. Painting better than ever this summer.

New Abstract Lake Series

2010-07-24T21:23:00.005-04:00

This is a new abstract in my Lake Series - Mud Pond 24X36 acrylic on canvas. I had a hard time getting a good photo of this painting I am still not thrilled with it but for now it is as good as I am going to get. As I said I am loving this size and shape canvas for the lake paintings. Mud Pond is the very end of Lake Ariel.

Promise Land - New Abstract Painting

2010-07-12T23:10:00.003-04:00

This is my latest abstract called Promise Land. I am doing a series of paintings here in PA while we are at the lake. There is a state park and small town named Promise Land near here. This is acrylic on canvas 24X36. I must say I love this size canvas - I am working on another one the same size and I am going to buy a few more this size. I really love this painting and the photo does not do it justice - it is one of the best paintings I have done in a long while. I finished it in less than an hour - sometimes the best ones come together like that - too bad they all don't!

2010-07-04T13:44:00.000-04:00

Happy Forth of July

Another Abstract Rework

2010-06-29T18:33:00.002-04:00

So the bottom painting I kind of thought was done but I just wasn't happy with it - so today I flipped it upside down and went to work on it. I am so much happier with it now- this is not the best photo but for now it will have to do - it is much nicer in person!

New Abstract Rework

2010-06-17T18:36:00.004-04:00

So I painted the bottom painting and thought I liked it - after a few days of "living with it" I was less thrilled. The top image is the reworked painting and I am so much happier with the new version. I flipped it upside down and reworked the middle and the bottom. I think the top reworked painting is a much more complete statement and I am glad I spent more time on it.

New Abstract and my Summer Studio

2010-06-08T14:02:00.003-04:00

A new abstract "Birds Eye View" acrylic on paper 22X30 and a picture of my little porch studio. In NJ I have a great studio that I had built on the back of my house here I am limited for space so I am using the side screened in porch - not the best lighting but I do have to paint.

New Abstract Painting

2010-06-02T20:58:00.004-04:00

So this is the first painting I am working on in my little porch studio. It is a small canvas - the top picture is my start about an hours work. The second picture is the same painting which I worked on today - it is shaping up. I wanted to add more color and integrate the dark blue areas - I need to live with this and see it I feel it needs more work. I think I want to downplay the large X in the bottom right but I am not too sure what else it needs.

PA Studio Set Up

2010-05-31T20:58:00.002-04:00

So yesterday I finally set up the side porch in PA so I can do some painting. The light is not great but it is a nice little space to work. My plan for the summer is to paint a Deibenkorn type of series based on the area - the lake, woods and just the feeling of the beautiful country here in NE Pennsylvania. I can't wait to translate my feelings about this place into abstract art. It is very green here from the trees and woods, lots of blue from the lakes and sky and then we have all the amazing rocks - grey and earth toned. I started a small canvas today - just a quick start but I like how it is progressing. I want to spend more time painting these paintings - more thoughtful work, more sophisticated color and good design. I sure hope I am up for this challenge.

More Abstracts

2010-05-11T13:04:00.004-04:00

Painted these two yesterday. These are on paper as well, both acrylic, the top painting 22X30 the bottom 26X22. I am having fun and painting well - I guess I better plan an exhibit on paper cause I sure have a lot of them. I hate to show on paper as I have to mat and frame them - a job I hate. When I get up to PA I can start painting a bit more on canvas.

Two More Abstracts

2010-05-08T19:44:00.003-04:00

I painted again this afternoon. The results are these 2 abstracts - the first acrylic on paper 26X22 and the second acrylic on paper 22X30. I have been working exclusively on paper - why?? - because all my canvases are in PA and I am in NJ. I did go over to Michael's today and treated myself to some new brushes - hey I would have liked a donut but the brushes will have to do. I will give then a try out tomorrow.

More New Abstracts

2010-05-07T16:17:00.003-04:00

Just finished these 2 abstracts - acrylic on paper 22X30. I have enjoyed painting these past 2 days. I can see my next painting will be in a different format - probably vertical. I wish I had more of my art supplies here in the NJ house - oh well - I am making due with what I have.

New Abstract

2010-05-06T18:23:00.003-04:00

I felt like painting this afternoon. I painted this abstract on paper 22X30 - acrylic. Most of my art supplies are up in PA right now and I am in NJ so I had to wing it. I need to study this one a bit to see if I think it needs more work.

New Abstract Painting

2010-04-27T18:52:00.003-04:00

I painted this abstract today after dinner. It is 22X30 and on paper. Painted this one fast - about 45 minutes from blank paper to painting as it is here in the photo. I like this one a lot - it has great color and lots of movement.

Two New Abstracts

2010-04-26T15:13:00.002-04:00

Painted these two new abstracts today - small 16X24 canvas. I am not sure if they are finished yet and they are different from my other work. I started these in a different way - not my usual large areas of color - lots of colors and smaller shapes and a lot less thinking. I am not where I want to be with my paintings right now but these are a step in the right direction - at least I think so.

New Watercolor

2010-04-04T18:12:00.002-04:00

So I have decided to paint a bunch of watercolors for my Etsy Shop - people like them and they do sell. I just cannot seem to work on my abstracts right now. I try but they are just not working for me - so maybe doing some watercolor landscapes right now may help.

Two New Abstract Paintings

2010-03-09T15:26:00.002-05:00

I started back painting with my Monday night art group again - this was my first time back since November. I started a new small canvas and finished two paintings that I previously started. The first one above is acrylic and mixed media on paper 30X22 and the second is acrylic on canvas 30X24. I actually like both and they are very different. Maybe this is the start of some good painting - that would be nice. It was great to see everyone and see what they have been up to - all great abstract painters.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T09:49:00.004-05:00

Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season

Acrylic on Canvas

2009-12-19T09:05:00.002-05:00

I cannot believe I have not posted here since October. This is a current abstract but I really have not been painting at all. I don't think I am in a slump - just not in the mood. This is really strange for me as I do a lot of painting in the winter months - wonder what is going on. I have been doing a lot of jewelry making and having fun so maybe that is it?? It is snowing hard and it is only 9 AM we are suppose to get 12 to 15 inches today thru tomorrow morning - that is rare for here in NJ so close to the ocean. Maybe all the snow will make me want to do some winter watercolor landscapes - at least they sell well on Etsy.

New Abstract

2009-10-21T13:51:00.003-04:00

I am back painting with the Monday Night Abstract Group - I sure missed them over the summer. I painted this small canvas on Monday night - it is an interesting color choice for me - I was inspired by a Diebenkorn painting. I like it but wish it were a lot bigger. I really need to get back into painting more - I guess over the winter I will do that.

New Abstract on Paper

2009-07-03T21:25:00.004-04:00

I am on fire painting in my new porch studio. I did this one this afternoon in the rain. Seems like I am liking red lately - actually I am trying to use up paint before I buy any new tubes and i have lots of reds.

PA Art Studio

2009-07-02T10:58:00.003-04:00

So I needed a place to paint here in PA - I have a screened-in porch on the side of the house and thought I would try that. The bottom is a photo of my new studio and the top a new abstract I painted yesterday. I like painting on the porch - well for the nice weather - it is bright and I feel like I am in the woods working. I sometimes have a hard time getting used to painting in a new area - not so here. I hope to do a lot of great art work this summer in my little porch studio. I am painting on paper for now - I did not want to cart a ton of canvases up with me but I may buy some while I am here.

PA Paintings

2009-07-01T22:41:00.004-04:00

So the bottom photo is the abstract painting I did the other day - I just wasn't happy with it. I decided to do some more work on it and the top photo is the final result. I think it is a much better painting now, more interesting and better resolved.

New Abstract

2009-06-24T21:16:00.002-04:00

So this is my first painting since I came to PA. I set up my art area on the screened in porch and decided to try to do some painting today. This painting is 30X22 on paper - not too bad for my first try here. I plan on doing a lot of work on paper in this style while I am here.

Abstract on Paper

2009-06-03T16:04:00.004-04:00

Acrylic and mixed media on paper 30X22 - I hardly ever paint with green so I thought I would give it a whirl yesterday. I am painting better than ever right now and on Saturday I leave my NJ studio behind to go to PA for the summer - bummer as far as painting goes. I may be able to paint on the porch there but adjusting to a new space/lighting will be hard.

New Abstract - Glory Days

2009-05-31T15:41:00.005-04:00

Another abstract on paper 30X22 I even have a name for this one "Glory Days". I have decided to spend my summer studying Rauschenberg's work. I could look at his paintings endlessly and always find something new and interesting. This is my favorite Rauschenberg book. I bought mine at the Met Store (soft cover) for a LOT less.

To say that my art work right now is very inspired by Rauschenberg is an understatement - I love the edginess and the freedom of his work (no pretty paintings) - so I could do a lot worse as far as a hero.

New Abstract on Paper

2009-05-26T20:38:00.003-04:00

This is a new abstract I finished today. I haven't painted in awhile - these are not pretty pictures but I like doing them. I am not sure what I will do with them - I don't really want to mat and frame them but am not sure how to display them.

Abstract

2009-05-12T18:34:00.003-04:00

Abstract on paper 30X22 - acrylic, collage and mixed media. I was working on 2 paintings today and was thinking my new work - "it ain't pretty". Well this is the look I am going for - edgy and raw - and that is most definitely not pretty. So does a painting have to be pretty to be valid or saleable? I think not - well I hope not. I look at the work of Robert Rauschenberg and don't find anything pretty - but I do find amazing art work. It is deep and thought provoking - what more can one ask for!

Some new abstracts

2009-05-11T22:06:00.002-04:00

I have been painting some work on paper - so far I have 5 full sheets completed. This is the second one in the series.

I took a drive up to the art guild tonight to visit with the Monday night art group - I wanted to see what they are working on and show them my latest. It was a nice night - lots of good abstract art to look at and discuss - I am inspired!!

Gallery Opening

2009-05-03T14:51:00.006-04:00

Last night was the opening for my two person show with Sheila Garbarsky at the ABstract EXpressions Contemporary Art Gallery. The show looks wonderful - our paintings work so well together - our style, colors and shapes really complement each other. I am so excited and proud of this show. It is so nice to walk into a beautiful spacious gallery and see a body of your work - I usually do not get to see a lot of my paintings together like this - it was a thrill. The show will be on display until June 5, 2009.

Here are a few more pictures - I was so busy talking to everyone I neglected to take many photos.

Two of my paintings

Sheila's work

The front window of the Gallery

New Abstract Painting

2009-04-22T11:23:00.003-04:00

I panted this abstract on Monday night and it is a different painting for me - it is on paper and very Rauschenberg looking - I think I like it and this is the direction I want to go for now. I feel the paintings I have in the ABstract EXpressionist Gallery represent a "body" of work - all done during the same time period, related in look, colors and feel - but I am ready to move on. I like the fact that I have this body of work to show (if I am lucky) so it is time to experiment and grow.

I have been intrigued by the idea of more edgy work - I am trying to discover just what this means in regard to my paintings. In order to do this I need to experiment and play around and see where it takes me. Having a "body" of work will allow me to do this.

I get bored easily or I guess I should say I hate to feel complacent and feel like my work is becoming easy to do or too much of a formula and I need to shake things up. This was a break through painting for me.

Art Exhibit Post Card

2009-04-16T22:05:00.002-04:00

This is the postcard for my exhibit at the ABstract EXpressions Gallery next month. I am excited and will post more info about this.

Abstract on Canvas

2009-03-20T13:44:00.003-04:00

This is the second painting I did the other day - I like the both of them. This one was painted over another unsuccessful painting - second times the charm! I should have more than enough paintings for the April show - I am getting excited about it.

New Abstract on Canvas

2009-03-18T18:58:00.002-04:00

New painting 28X24 acrylic on canvas. I haven't painted in about 2 weeks - today was a great day I finished this one and another that I will post later - 2 in one day - now that's progress.

Large Abstract on Canvas

2009-03-03T17:55:00.004-05:00

This abstract is 48X36 and I loved painting large - I just wish I could afford to buy more canvas in this size or bigger. Large canvas = large shapes with a little decoration on top - simple!!

New Abstract on Canvas

2009-02-22T11:59:00.003-05:00

This is a canvas I just finished and this photo does not do it justice - it is too warm or something is just off. It is raining and I can't go out and take a good photo and I am eager to blog about this one. I like it a lot it is 30X30 on canvas and I painted it in about 2 hours - one shot and it was finished. I wish they were all this easy.

I need to start deciding what painting is going where. I also need to decide on naming vs no name. I am thinking a series name followed by numbers for this year. The series name I am thinking of is Literati followed by the year and number - I have always named my paintings but after talking to a number of artist friends I am leaning towards untitled - at least for now.

Latest Abstract

2009-02-10T17:18:00.004-05:00

Another one for my upcoming show - this one is 30X30 acrylic on canvas. Interesting coloring but I like it. I just bought a tube of that lime green color and I thought I would give it a try.

New Abstract on Canvas

2009-02-09T16:28:00.004-05:00

New painting ans not so good photo - this one is 36X24 on canvas. This is a new shape for me - not sure if I like it or not - kind of narrow.

Abstract on Canvas

2009-02-07T19:32:00.002-05:00

New painting for my upcoming show in April. This one is 36X36 and is darker in the photo than it really is. I had time to paint yesterday and finished this one and started and finished a 36X24 inch canvas that I will post tomorrow. I hope I am out of my painting slump because I need to produce for this upcoming exhibit and a few other shows. One thing is I am having fun painting again so that is a plus.

New Abstract on Canvas

2009-02-04T18:20:00.003-05:00

New abstract - finished yesterday. I had started this painting at home last Sunday - it had some nice things going on but for me it was unresolved. I brought it in to discuss with my class and then made a few changes to it - which in turned caused me to make more changes. I do like the result and now consider it finished. It is 30X30 on canvas.

My class is over - and it was really fun I had a blast teaching and maybe they will ask me back to do another class.

Two More New Abstracts

2009-01-26T12:39:00.003-05:00

Finished these two yesterday. The first on was a painting I did just to use up the paint I had squeezed out on my palette. The second was a start that was a demo for my Tuesday Class - I finished it at home and will discusses it with the class tomorrow.

New Abstract on Canvas

2009-01-25T10:49:00.003-05:00

I am teaching an abstract class on Tuesdays - this is a painting I did for the class. It was already started but going no where. I ended up adding the large red shape in the center and that pulled the painting together. I really need to get working again as I am having an exhibit in April/May and I need a lot of paintings. I only want to show canvas in this show - nothing on paper.

Two New Abstracts for 2009

2009-01-04T17:01:00.003-05:00

I finally had a chance to do some painting today and I decided to work on paper. These two are 30X22 inches - acrylic and mixed media on watercolor paper. I am pretty happy with both of these. My goal for this year is to work on my color and these two have nice, bright color - no mud for a change. These are my first paintings for 2009. I hope it will be a good year.

I talked to an art friend today and she mentioned enjoying the process - something to think about when painting - just go with the flow and enjoy it - don't worry about the finished painting, it will come.

Three New Abstracts

2008-12-30T19:35:00.005-05:00

Acrylic on canvas 24X20

Acrylic on canvas 36X36

Acrylic on paper 30X22

So I finally got some time to paint today. I worked on these three - in the order shown. The first two are on canvas - the second one I have been playing with for a long time - it has gone through many color variations. The third painting is on paper and is painted over an unsuccessful figure painting. To see the paintings larger click on the image.

More Watercolors

2008-12-22T14:28:00.002-05:00

Two new watercolors for Etsy. Cold and windy here in NJ - I should be painting snow.

Two New Watercolors

2008-12-21T16:19:00.004-05:00

Well I have found out I can sell watercolors on Etsy too - so I guess I will be painting a few - just did these two this afternoon. They are small 7X10 inches but easy to ship!

Abstract on Paper

2008-12-09T16:08:00.002-05:00

New abstract on paper 30X22. I have been working on a canvas 30X30 and beating it to death so I put it aside for now - I had paint left on the pallet so I did this abstract on paper and it seems to work.

Two More Watercolors

2008-11-22T15:36:00.004-05:00

Two new watercolors - I guess I am finished until I come back from PA after Thanksgiving.

Watercolors

2008-11-21T17:44:00.003-05:00

Two new watercolors for Ebay - I finished these today and will do two more tomorrow. I guess I need to paint more snow scenes - well it is pretty cold here in NJ. I worked on a large abstract on canvas this week but I am not sure how I feel about it yet - so I guess it is not finished.

Some New Watercolors

2008-11-16T15:13:00.003-05:00

Four new watercolors I did today. I am selling these again on Ebay. These may not be my favorite thing to paint (I love abstract) but they do sell well.

New Abstract on Canvas

2008-11-08T18:21:00.002-05:00

New abstract painting on canvas - 24X20 inches. I really like this painting and I painted it quickly - I also like the size of this canvas for a quick abstract.

I will be teaching an abstract class in January at the local art guild here in NJ. I am excited and need to get my thoughts together to plan the classes. I sure hope I get some students to sign up!

Abstract on Canvas

2008-10-24T10:15:00.005-04:00

This is also a new painting I completed this week. I like it a lot - why?? Well I like the composition - it has a lot of repeats in the curve/hook shape. It has good space distribution. It is interesting and the coloring is a bit different for me. I have decided to work this winter on exploring color - I have always felt color is my weakness - I rely on the old tried and true and I want to go for the unexpected. I wanted to post some new work here because I think my poor computer is living on borrowed time.

New Abstract on Canvas

2008-10-23T14:46:00.004-04:00

This is a new abstract painting on canvas 30X24 which I have called "Watchtower". I haven't been blogging much lately because of a computer crash and the time it took to get things back up and running - also buying an external HD and backing everything up. I seem to be back up and running OK now and I want to post some images of new art work and jewelry on my other blog.

Mixed Media Collage - "Impact"

2008-09-13T20:42:00.003-04:00

Another mixed media collage on canvas 16X12. I also finished 2 more and I think these have just about run their course. I have completed about 16 of these and it is time to move on. To view this larger click on the image.