I was recently asked what is my favorite large painting that I’ve done over my career. Boy, that is a difficult question to answer, especially for someone with a career spanning over 35 years!
Just looking through files and folders of images spanning over three decades is a daunting task. First there were photographs, printed and filed. Then all the images collected on slides which was the only way we could apply for exhibits. This involved special film, tripods, 3200K lights, a whole set up which took hours to accomplish. And then I didn’t even know if I had captured the image correctly until the slides returned. Thank goodness those days are over.
Now, we take photos with a digital camera, the better the camera, the better the image. Of course, now every decent phone has a great camera. And I don’t bother with the lights anymore. I usually just hang the paintings on the outside of my studio on a cloudy day or on the north side. Photo imaging software can handle the rest.
My first couple of decades as an artist, I focused solely on watercolor or media on paper – pastel, charcoal, pen and ink. Watercolor paper is limiting by the size, standard sheet of 22 x 30. Although at times I have used rolled paper which can get very large, most paintings of this time were standard size or smaller.
The past few decades have been primarily devoted to oils and acrylics. Sizes vary here depending upon my design and are usually on canvas, canvas board, or even hard board.
Each painting has a story behind it. I remember what inspired me, where I was, even what music or recorded book I was listening to. These are just a few of my favorite large paintings from over the years. Certainly not all, but a few. As you can see, I am particularly attracted to stories with people. Although throughout the years, I ‘ve painted many still lifes and scenery of all kinds, I keep returning to the human element.
I'm a professional artist, retired director of a performing arts center, bona fide book addict, and enjoy the quiet life...most of the time. I'd love to hear from you or get your ideas for future posts. Come back soon!
