Every once in a while I feel compelled to display what I have painted over the last few months. I show them to push myself to improve and tackle new subjects. If I didn't have anyone other than me or Betty see what I am up to, I am not sure there would be much improvement, or I would find one thing that is decent and just reproduce the same scene again and again. There is power in accountability.
Also, I know my humble attempts to put brush to canvas have inspired a few others to pull out the long-dormant easel and paint to give it a go, or some other creative attempt that has been forgotten.
My granddaughter noticed months ago that I prefer landscapes to people or animals as my subject. She is correct. I have tried living things, particularly when sketching. But, the end result is more Halloweenish than I prefer, plus I find landscapes more calming to paint and look at afterward.
So, what follows is a sampling of some of what has been finished. I am averaging a new painting about once a week; some survive and others get covered in white gesso, never to see the light of day until I try something new.
I have asked Betty to share some of her flow art, too. It is a technique that appears deceptively easy but is not. Pouring paint on a canvas and then blowing all the colors around with a straw and hairdryer takes a real artistic eye. I have found the freeform abstract approach isn't my thing.
And, here are some samples of Betty's flow art
Our local library often hosts events to showcase the work of local artists. If yours does, too, please consider stepping up to the challenge. Your projects are impressive, and I'm thinking that a husband and wife showing would be especially charming - and a memorable experience for you. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of a husband-wife showing. That is an idea to follow up on. Thanks, Mary.
DeleteOMG I think your work is fabulous! Both of you :-) My art is not with paints but rather, with fabric, thread and yarn. I keep going back to the garden gate to the ocean and the snow on the fence post. Love them both!
ReplyDeleteMy new favorite is the snow on the fence post. It shows some decent work on shadows, not often a string suit of mine. Thanks for the kind words, Elle.
DeleteBob. I would gladly display the fence lying in the snow. Creative outlets are so important for us. I picture you or Betty saying, "Time to paint?"
ReplyDeleteIt is more of a declarative, "I need to paint something."
DeleteThe fence post painting is kept in our living room, for now. Betty advised me on the shadow work. It paid off!
Oh what a great pastime. I'm glad you shared with us. My kids have bought my husband art supplies to prompt the museum but so far he hasn't started anything.
ReplyDeleteI urge hubby to give it a try. The whole process can be very satisfying. Luckily, I am not depending on selling anything to justify the expense!
DeleteOh wow, I love Betty's flow art! And I am so impressed with your paintings! My favorites are the one with the mountain and the one with the snow. You will have to teach me how to paint water when you visit.
ReplyDeleteThank you! We are hoping to re-try the train trip in the Spring.
DeleteBetty has an eye! And I am terrified to even try to paint, so I admire your wilingness to do it.
ReplyDeleteI understand you had lunch with Kathy Gottberg. We met her and Thom a month ago...great couple.
DeleteThere really is little risk. If we don't like something, we just overpaint it.
Wow! You’re both so great at this! Thanks for sharing these.
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome, and thanks for the encouragement.
DeleteThese are really good! I am a long-time reader of your blog and it has been fun seeing you grow as an artist. Betty has obvious talent as well. Thanks for taking the risk and sharing. It is inspiring to see what other retirees are creating.
ReplyDeleteTaking some risks is one of the joys of retirement. You only have yourself to answer to.
DeleteBTW, I have added The Retired Alchemist to my blogroll. I like your take on various subjects.
Nice!
ReplyDeleteThanks!
ReplyDelete