February 26, 2011

Snow again, but apparently, we're so used to it, it no longer bothers us. Or does it? We merrily painted away, but with a strong and sudden emphasis on birds. Yes, we're ready for spring!

Save the date: Marge Bolin will be having a solo show at Wishbone restaurant in March. More news next week!

Current news: Susan Alforque-Silvano is part of a group show of Filipino artists exhibiting as part of Coming Together in Skokie. The show will run through March 14 at the Skokie Public Library at 5215 Oakton Street in Skokie.

February 19, 2011

Special thanks to guest photographer Vivian Klingensmith.

The snow is gone (yes, all 20+ inches of it!) and all that's left are the memories—and the paintings. Seems the spring-like weather has brought out the artist in everyone. Look how prolific we are! Unfortunately, nothing exciting to report on the sartorial front. We've probably lost any standing we may have had in the Fashion Blogging community. Oh well!

February 12, 2011

As you can see above, "Everything is OK!" The sun was out, there was plenty of parking and we're in the midst of holiday season, what with Lincoln's birthday today and Valentine's Day on Monday. Even though no one wore a top hat or brought flowers, everything was okay.


And today's fashion award goes to Ken, shown here, for his trademark cat t-shirt. Today's shirt is especially noteworthy, though, in that it features his very own painting. How cool is that? Also worth mentioning is that it's a gift from Vivian. What a sister!

February 5, 2011

Despite having to battle the aftermath of Chicago's 3rd worst blizzard, the gang was (almost) all here and happy to be painting.

If you're ready for a bit of news about spring and are awake at 6am, tune into WCIU on Tuesday morning. You'll hear our own Steve Meyer discuss Chicago's horticultural scene...and that's something we're all ready to hear more of!

And if you're battling cabin fever and are in the neighborhood of Skokie, stop by the library to see Susan Alforque-Silvano exhibiting her watercolors in a group show of Filipino artists. The show will run from February 3 to March 14 at the Skokie Public Library.


Finally, here's something you just have to see. Today's prize for best footwear goes to Pat Otto. It's true--you can be toasty warm and totally cool all at the same time!

January 29, 2011

We're back--after what seems like a very long break--and ready to paint. This term's highlights include the addition of drawing students (you'll get to see their work in our showtime circle) and the grand opening of the new parking garage. We're excited about the garage for many reasons, not the least of which is that it means Vivian's return. Hooray and welcome back, everyone!

And mark your calendars. Susan Alforque-Silvano will be part of a group show of Filipino artists exhibiting as part of Coming Together in Skokie. The show will run from February 3 to March 14 at the Skokie Public Library at 5215 Oakton Street in Skokie.

December 18, 2010

Today was our last get together before the holiday break. All in all, a lovely time was had by all. We painted, ate, and swapped "art gifts."


Also, we want to extend our best wishes for a wonderful holiday season to all our friends, family and fans. Thanks for joining us this past year. We're looking forward to seeing you (and each other) again in January!

December 11, 2010

Another sparsely attended class (must be the weather) gave us a chance to see "The Plan" in action. "The Plan" is a system of thinking, sketching and planning a painting that takes the artist from inspiration to some truly inspirational paintings. The bottom row shows the progression one artist's plan took. It was fascinating.

Only one more class before the holidays--and what a class it will be! We're going to have a holiday swap. We'll each bring a paint tube, brush or piece of equipment that, while perfectly good, doesn't work for us. Then we'll go round and pick from the pile of "rejected tools." Everyone will have a chance to clear space in their paint box for new and different things; and everyone will have a chance to try something new and different. This should be fun! Don't miss it!

December 4, 2010

The first snow of the season! It was beautiful--but it may have kept all but the hardiest painters away. Still, those who came were inspired...and very productive.

November 20, 2010

We're off next week for Thanksgiving. See you in two weeks!

And for those interested in the photos Cristina referenced, here's a link:

http://www.cubagallery.co.nz

November 13, 2010

Special thanks to guest photographer, Greeta Hootman.