CROCUS
Mixed media on canvas
30 x 40 x 2

A Place for Art

These two paintings are in my home.  I like the colours - especially this time of year with the onset of autumn.    I like that they have linear elements yet are a bit grunge too.  One is hanging on the wall and one is leaning.  I don't adhere to any rules when it comes to displaying art in the home.  Again, I am drawn, as always, to how the pieces make me feel in that space.

These nameless paintings compliment my other eclectic keepsakes - two Buddhas, an little wrought-iron iron and wooden African mask.  While I'd love to boast these items were from far flung exotic locales they are just from my local home design shop.  One day, for sure, I will travel and glean inspiration on location.  For now though, I will be content with making art and making my abode beautiful to me.

Once Upon A Theme....

So, once upon a time, I got stuck on a theme.  That, of course, is not necessarily a bad thing.  I was at my fave  local gallery,  www.bartonandleiergallery.com and bought myself a beautiful, hand bound leather sketchbook.  It was made in India which linked my brain to elephants (as a proper working brain should!).  Well, the papers and paints came out and I fulfilled my penchant for pachyderms.  Others liked them too and I immediately sold one at an art show with orders for more in the same style.  Suddenly, a series emerged - all based on a singular theme.  Creativity presents itself in all strange manner of ways - I suggest taking that ride as soon it appears.

Sirens Death

This painting entitled Sirens Death, was featured on a Blue Canvas group called Blue.  I was really chuffed to be asked and felt it to be a great honour to share my work amongst their super talented artist body.

Although Q refers to this as the "mermaid in bondage" painting, I regard the image as having a shared duality - one that is both violent yet serene.  A troubled soul succumbing to a treacherous life.  I can almost hear  melodic music fading as she sinks to the depths of the sea.

I would encourage any new (or established) artist to unfold their wings and venture into online art communities such as Blue Canvas or forums and groups through Facebook.  It's actually rather fun to connect with like minds and banter for hours about artsy stuff.

Connections, whether virtual or face to face, give me inspiration and let me know I am not alone on this artistic journey of life.

I      

PIP (picture in picture)

In this painting entitled,  "Claudette's Dream",  there have been a series of accidental pip's (as I call them). These mini paintings are unplanned yet a welcome surprise.  It is pretty rare that I have a grand plan for my paintings - it is all strictly by feel.  By that, I mean emotions of the day/hour/minute.  I feel and the colours call my name.  Once the layers go on a theme emerges.

Claudette came about on a sunny day with whims of travel on my mind.  Q says it suggests a French inspiration and Claudette looks like Betty Draper (whoever that is!).  I was probably just trying to channel my inner Grace Kelly [ ;) ].  Either that or I just needed a baguette and cured deli meats.

What are your thoughts???

What's in a Name...

So this 30" by 40" painting is entitled "LINAGE".  My inspiration came from my father and his love of genealogy.  After an idea presents itself to me I build on it with layers.  Firstly, in the best hunter/gatherer fashion, I source out papers, paint colours, scrap bits and ephemera.  Next comes choosing an overall palette from those supplies.  The fun begins when the gel medium (in this case matte) is applied and things begin to stick.  I work purely on instinct as to the composition and placement of objects.

Often there tend to be many little paintings which appear within the larger theme.  I find that happens usually by chance.  The viewer can then form a personal relationship to the piece by having a favourite 'bit'.

 As the layers multiply, the piece takes on more meaning and visual interest.  One of the last stages in this work was painting the vine that links the images together - my interpretation of a family tree.

I included the angel imagery to represent family members who have passed.  Once the canvas is finished a name serendipitously presents itself.  This time it was LINEAGE which encompasses my original idea.

Welcome Me.....Welcome You!

So here it is,  my brand new blog -  the mixed canvas 

My intention for this web space is to share, lament and inspire (but mostly share).  My 'bestie' (can guys even say that?) who I'll refer to as Q will help me with this journey to bring my artwork to a broader audience.

The above painting remains untitled, however, is one of my favourite works.  While its name remains elusive, the colours are bold, shapes daring and splats random.  This painting certainly makes an impact on the room it's in.