Lapis lazuli has long been one of my favorite specialty blue colors for previous pigment projects and a perfect choice for the current Spring Unveiling at Bronze Coast Gallery. Artisans around the world have used this mineral for jewelry, inlays, furniture decorations, paint, tombs, and temples in endless varieties. Seventeenth Century Dutch … [Read more...] about Ultimate ‘Over the Sea’ Ultra-marine Blue
Lessons from the Low Country
Each work is inspired by the color palette of a select painting in the exhibit Rembrandt and the Golden Age of Dutch Art, which traveled the United States in 2006-2007.
Using Violet and Purple Pigments in Oils: Challenges and Solutions
Painting objects using violet and purple shades is always a challenge because it is easy to land on the garish side of this hue. We have all seen a house painted this color and we say "Whoa! That's intense!" Another example is painted flowers and fabrics that make your eyes water. So how to avoid this error in the use of purple/violet … [Read more...] about Using Violet and Purple Pigments in Oils: Challenges and Solutions
Repoussoir: An Odd Name for a Powerful Compositional Effect
Ever wonder about the tricks the masters used to compose their paintings? Of course, there are many tricks such as color intensity, perspective, size, placement, and so forth, but one that most people don't know about is repoussoir. This centuries-old method creates drama and engages the viewer. Many of the masters such as Chardin, Vermeer, … [Read more...] about Repoussoir: An Odd Name for a Powerful Compositional Effect
Revisiting The Zecchi Art Supply Shop in Italy
In the late summer and fall of 2003, Dave and I spent 10 lovely weeks in Italy. This trip was planned specifically for me to paint the beauty of the countryside and soak up the endlessly interesting Italian culture. Chantal Kelly, our talented travel agent, knew all the best and picturesque places to stay and we were never disappointed with our … [Read more...] about Revisiting The Zecchi Art Supply Shop in Italy
Joker in the Tulip Bed
As many of you know, tulips are a favorite flower of mine. During the months (2006-07) of painting and researching for my Lessons from the Low Countries pigment project, I often incorporated tulips into my oil painting compositions. The reasons for this are simple. It is one of the most breathtakingly splendid flowers in the world and delightfully … [Read more...] about Joker in the Tulip Bed
Oil Painting Critiques
This past week, I had the pleasure of participating in the Oil Painters of America Critique Program. For the nominal fee of $25.00 (which goes to OPA), artists have the opportunity to have a signature or master level member review their oil paintings and give instructional advice on how they might improve their technique. Because I do not do any … [Read more...] about Oil Painting Critiques