June 9, 2012

Hi! We're back! And we have lots of things to share with you—from upcoming shows to special features to the usual look at what we've been painting. So let's get going!



And what special features are we offering, you may ask? Well, during our long month off, two of our artists were very busy painting. Interestingly, both of them have painted in a series—something you often hear of artists doing (Monet's Haystacks or Cathedral series, for instance). And now we'll give you a chance to actually see a series in action!

These two series are very different, but each is a perfect example of the series genre the artist has chosen to paint. Basically, a series is a visual exploration; it can be of a place, a color, time of day, or even an idea. And that's what we have here. Susan has painted a series of location paintings; she examines a beach and the people using it at various times of day. After that, Robert visually explores an idea. In this conceptual series (and you aren't even seeing the entire series), you can actually see an idea form and develop. Each painting is different and valuable in itself, but even more interesting as part of a whole. See if you don't agree.

Location series

Conceptual series

And keep looking to see what the rest of us are up to. From telling stories to celebrating colors, shapes, people and places, we're sharing what's important in our worlds. Thanks for stopping by and see you next week! Oh, and keep scrolling—there's an important invitation at the end.

Finally, Ken will be having a show at Ten Cat Tavern. It's called Buddy and Sweetie and stripes and features paintings from his two latest series. There will be an opening reception at Ten Cat on Saturday, June 16, beginning at 3pm—and you're all invited! Mark your calendars and see you there. Here's the invitation below (in case you didn't already get yours!)

May 12, 2012

Well, it was a gray and rainy day, but that couldn't stop the painting—or the high spirits. And we weren't just happy because school's out till summer. We always have a good time—can't you tell?

We'll be back in June, so watch for our return. In the meantime, enjoy.

May 5, 2012

We're back...thanks to Mae at AT&T who solved a particularly pesky internet connection problem—just in the nick of time, too! And so, in the spirit of celebration, we wish you a happy May (did you notice the connection there....Mae and May? Too much, huh?)

Weather conditions made things a bit disconcerting today...outside, the fog made us think we were in San Francisco and inside, the room felt like a meat locker in Alaska. But the fog rolled out and the air conditioner shut down and a good time was had by all.

Today's theme? That was a bit disconcerting, too. Most of us seemed to think we were in a science lab instead of an art studio. Everyone was "experimenting," from mixtures to mediums and from painting hands to background textures. As you can see, we succeeded admirably!

As usual, studio conversation revolved around what's new in the world of art. Today, for instance, is the last day the touring Sketchbook Project can be seen in Chicago. Our teacher participated last year and we found the prospect intriguing. For anyone who might be interested in participating next year (either individually or together), here's some background on Sketchbook Project 2013. It's incredibly flexible and fun—and a great way to be part of a national art experience. Think about it while you enjoy more giant paintings!

April 28, 2012

Well, we've been having some internet connection issues...as in we can't get on! We'll solve the problem when we find time to call AT&T--hopefully, by next week. Meanwhile, we're across town using a generous viewer's computer and internet. Thanks, Mom!

Unfortunately, this also means we can't get the video uploaded. However, to make it up to you, we've made our pictures even larger. And next week, we'll have the video back.

So what happened this week? We've all seemed to tune into some common mind link. Our thoughts turned to flowers and landscapes and textures and abstract vertical elements. Look below and see how our paintings seem to build on each other and flow in a beautiful, logical stream. You'd think we planned it!

Enjoy and see you next week.