p a i n t - verb \ˈpānt\: June 2007

6.30.2007

Funny Bunny

20 x 16 inches, oil on canvas

This was going to be "Corduroy Bear" but the bear turned out to be a very stiff and uncomfortable looking model. Fortunately, this bunny was nearby and available - and was happy to take his place.

6.28.2007

Downcast Egg

Downcast Egg, oil on canvas, 20 x 16 inches

On easel #1: "Corduroy Bear" ; on easel #2: "Framed"

Thanks for the inspiration, Tracy and Steven.

I was asked to write a 200-words-or-less bio/artist statement for the exhibit described in my previous post. For most artists, myself included, writing these things is like pulling teeth. I did my best, though, and am happy to report that I got it off in time. Still, my mind keeps pulling me back to the well-worn phrase, "Trust the art not the artist."

I paint pictures of objects – still lifes. My paintings are shadow-less, realistic and spare with the intensity of a single object offset by a rich and layered background. These simple objects hang from threads and strings – they have potential, express gravity and are elevated literally and figuratively. They are singular references embodying infinite interpretations – common reference points for a diverse set of reactions.

6.27.2007

In the Thick and Thin of Things

Robert and I have been getting .jpgs ready for a group show next fall - a virtual exhibition of projected images. I'm one of many who've been invited - but I'm excited about it nonetheless. It's a conception of Monica Sheets, a recent Jerome Fellow. I'll post again about the show as I learn more - but I thought, in the meantime, I'd share this detail from post 3/26/07 that will be a part of it.

I've been painting eggs for awhile now, and I'm enjoying it, but I miss the thick paint like I used on this snapper. Eggs seem to require a very thin and blended approach to get them to appear three dimensional. I have a feeling though, that after these eggs, I'll be doing something that requires bigger piles of paint on the palette.

As I write, "Downcast Egg" is on the easel. I'm aiming for Friday to post it.

6.25.2007

(detail)

Pink Monkey Egg

20 x 16 inches, oil on canvas

6.23.2007

(detail)

Black Swan Egg

20 x 16 inches, oil on canvas

6.22.2007

(detail - in process)

(Pink Monkey Egg - in process)

6.20.2007

(sketch)

I thought I’d share the sketch I made for the painting below. It happened after the pose and lighting settled down on this hollowed-side-ways egg. This sketch also happened just before it took off – and roamed around my canvas – like a pointer on a Ouija board – finding rest eventually – as a hovering craft - in the right-hand corner. And there it remains, in paint now, waiting.

8.5 x 5 inches, graphite on paper