Simplify

I feel like I am doing a 180 from complexity to simplification. But the more abstract my work becomes, the better the response seems to be. I have discovered that the initial drawing from nature is not only essential for inspiration but keeps me happy during in the entire process. Can't let that go.

But simplification is not always simple, these are two versions I want to keep, there are others discarded.

Matting and framing

I haven't presented works on papers in quite awhile. I am excited how they look matted, really brings them out. However I have encountered a couple of frustrations when ordering products. One is most frames do not come with wire hanging hardware which is required when hanging in a gallery. The frames I usually order for my paintings from pictureframes.com come with all the needed hanging hardware. Didn't realize what a plus that was. I did think to order some custom mats in a slightly off white because I knew I would not like the bright whites that come with the frames. To me, off white looks better with watercolor paper. But I always forget you have to order backing boards extra. Most of the time when you order a mat you really also need an acid free backing board to go with it. So if you are rushing to get ready for a show, don't forget your wire hanging hardware and backing boards. I will be going out to get mine tomorrow.

Doing happy art makes me happy

I discovered something. Not just creating art that turns out well makes me happy but creating light, joyful art makes me physically happier and less stressed. I hope it is the same experience for the viewer.

Usually I only really like one section of a painting but this painting I only like in its entirety. Maybe that means I am improving?

More Abstract

I have been working prolifically and my art is becoming abstract. The work is leading me to use bigger brushes and prompting me to seek simpler compositions with less shapes. I paint with a sense of motion and desire more transparency of the media and areas of compressed space and overlap in the composition. I love light colors and want to use more of those. I am finding relief in the simplified works on paper not sure why the paintings on board are so complex. Really glad that I tried watercolors.

Mixed Media on Paper

 Paintings on Wood

In the Studio

So at the end of the Summer we got the studio renovated but I did not get much chance to use it until now. I imagined that I would have stations set up for drawing, collage and painting so that ideas would develop from the process and one idea would lead to another. My dreams have come true because that is what is happening. I am discarding about half of what I am making and I am itching to work on canvas again but new ideas are developing. These are all works on paper, I feel working on paper is faster and I want to keep things progressing quickly. I wonder how I would add painting on canvas into the mix? Sometimes when I get involved in a large painting I just work on that exclusively. I believe that I would need to just add it in and have several canvases ready to go. The studio seems to be like juggling and adding canvas would be like throwing another ball into the air. I am also using one drawing as a basis for all of the work but each one is still coming out differently.

Class Schedule

My Classes Coming Up at the Arts Center in Orange

I am excited about the new classes I have on the schedule:

https://artscenterinorange.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/the-arts-center-in-orange-winter-2014-15-news-classes.pdf

540-672-7311

email: theartsorange@aol.com

Drawing from Still Life

to Discover Your Style

Draw from still life set ups

and choose art elements to

emphasize. Use tracing paper

to further stylize and simplify

your drawings then execute

a finished piece in a media of

your choice.

Tuesdays, March 10 and 17

Time: 6-8pm

Instructor: Carol Barber

Ages: Teens, Adults

Registration $40, Supplies $10

 

 

Explorations in Nature

Use a variety of media to

gather sketches outside from

close up details to sweeping

landscapes

Tuesdays, March 24 and 31

Time: 6-8pm

Instructor: Carol Barber

Ages: Teens, Adults

Registration $40, Supplies $10

Paper, Paper, Finally Paper

For about six months, I have been thinking I really wanted to try working on paper with mixed media and I finally got a chance to go for it. I am happy with the results, I feel like the work has a freshness and room to breath. I enjoyed physically layering cut paper onto the work also. I can't wait to try it again.

Looking Forward to 2015!

I have a number of classes proposed for the Winter session at The Arts Center In Orange. These classes are meant to explore the unpredictable and mysterious nature of the creative process. I hope to find some participants to embark on this artistic adventure with me.

https://artscenterinorange.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/the-arts-center-in-orange-winter-2014-15-news-classes.pdf

I have one more month of full time elementary art teaching. This experience has been a great learning adventure. I am happy to report the individual spirit of our American youth is alive and well. These students could have tried to copy Vincent Van Gogh's "Starry, Starry Night" but I believe every one was inspired to follow their own artistic voice. The magic of children.