tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46256517149892967322024-02-18T20:51:57.538-05:00ariel freeman fine artOriginal Paintings in Watercolor and Pastelariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.comBlogger201125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-62861313042444975102011-08-26T06:12:00.007-04:002011-09-10T07:20:51.509-04:00Illusions of depth<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Lavender Cascade</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Pastel, 18X24</span></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXqiXyoR1TMzQNkpsLFLzbljD486i9v0GrzGAMEFILr9bOCqd8KGpUgpQjqOI02008rIB3_DBdrcepmzGOWEslJEJiWxc86sZzJI6qMCUwMwR3KoxasD4c_RPa6-Xs0X0S92SydC8ytspB/s1600/P1070876.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXqiXyoR1TMzQNkpsLFLzbljD486i9v0GrzGAMEFILr9bOCqd8KGpUgpQjqOI02008rIB3_DBdrcepmzGOWEslJEJiWxc86sZzJI6qMCUwMwR3KoxasD4c_RPa6-Xs0X0S92SydC8ytspB/s400/P1070876.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645106672781759106" /></a><br /><div>Yes, an underpainting serves as a fundamental purpose, to set the values, and overall color, tone and temperature of a painting. Used beyond the rudiment purpose, underpainting can enhance the energy and interest in a painting, creating a layered effect and the illusion of depth and volume. <div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGQkhCbWtia-9yHdM4eDO1bWIgN3wdwbb2A8IK7J12EYQqGWEF6Wcinswqx_duMlMt1PBN5U5N2KnbyqvrkM-shyyqB4o6L7aEJGeqDJrc8vhzrqt6yJHIF-1EoeN7nv_FyUv9sSBpOiiN/s1600/P1070685.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGQkhCbWtia-9yHdM4eDO1bWIgN3wdwbb2A8IK7J12EYQqGWEF6Wcinswqx_duMlMt1PBN5U5N2KnbyqvrkM-shyyqB4o6L7aEJGeqDJrc8vhzrqt6yJHIF-1EoeN7nv_FyUv9sSBpOiiN/s400/P1070685.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645106458259184418" /></a>Over the past year, I have been exploring the possibilities of underpainting in watercolor and applying it to pastel landscapes...some small, others much larger as this one is. The tone, value, and color are established in watercolor, allowing for the watercolor to do what it does best...create a wonderful mingle of little explosive color blossoms. Then, pastel is applied, allowing for some of the subtle watercolor creation to show through, enhancing the illusion of air and space.</div><div><br /></div><div>I will have 10 or so of these pastel landscapes on exhibit at <a href="http://kybeccawinebar.com/">Kybecca</a> September 1st through October 31st. </div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-4756346642726835612011-07-22T16:17:00.002-04:002011-07-22T16:19:45.229-04:00painting again<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Finally...seeing again through 'painter' eyes.</span></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholq2q-qCzztvFNMH2K8ap81wOuMVX5DjlPbTZ4M24GeD2s829iCMecV5k_r6hOI5KHITEc8KEHMkln8fbcMe0RaHTSglNZmmkmBG3FD7DMZ7Weyo6a8NpGzzbo3_KhgUTOnuy-VdfZwdS/s1600/P1070681.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEholq2q-qCzztvFNMH2K8ap81wOuMVX5DjlPbTZ4M24GeD2s829iCMecV5k_r6hOI5KHITEc8KEHMkln8fbcMe0RaHTSglNZmmkmBG3FD7DMZ7Weyo6a8NpGzzbo3_KhgUTOnuy-VdfZwdS/s400/P1070681.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5632273512317239170" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Pastel 18X24</div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-56127400346946667362011-04-29T06:09:00.010-04:002011-04-29T09:24:28.440-04:00View from the island<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">As often as I can, I walk the path that leads from the neighborhood stables to a little island park nearby. The path encircles the island...and along the path...I see green, blanketing the water, the trees...everything. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">From the island, I can see the bridge connecting and the mass of trees...a seamless transition from one land to another...through the island foliage and the haze of green, I see the path clearly...leading me to this point.</span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU40DiabdZ7hlRq_RP7oH_-qnQ1pG1GFH7pz-vhSm9N9NN-q5BJAuyL3FUF-3XjW2CTRnAHAtj5g5CRGes42zEwkzBr2jROookielGCYgbsJjpqoB-ASdG3IP0UZXsPIk3yXlAH-_80s_t/s1600/View+from+the+Island.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU40DiabdZ7hlRq_RP7oH_-qnQ1pG1GFH7pz-vhSm9N9NN-q5BJAuyL3FUF-3XjW2CTRnAHAtj5g5CRGes42zEwkzBr2jROookielGCYgbsJjpqoB-ASdG3IP0UZXsPIk3yXlAH-_80s_t/s400/View+from+the+Island.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600950518375508962" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>View from the Island</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Pastel on Ampersand Pastelbord</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">9x12</span></span></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-48815009891374915992011-03-02T08:33:00.010-05:002011-03-02T20:45:50.309-05:00Painting as I want<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyW_O9Lj-a5MxegSwPGymOhbh7_H4TT8t0ImlvrvRFHfPiOSJzKlB6fjZQJr8kR2qANiK_0gYZHm9qbQlEqLFmhE8HufHf-Zb_xkNLE03i_v_31RdHKKfyfQnOcTLwguyg4SobRob_uON/s1600/LT+Staff+Picks.jpg"></a><div>'<i>One day seven years ago, I found myself saying to myself- I can't live where I want to- I can't go where I want to- I can't do what I want to- I can't even say what I want to...I decided I was a very stupid fool not to at least paint as I wanted to...as it seemed to be the only thing I could do that didn't concern anybody but myself...'</i></div><div style="text-align: right;">Georgia O'Keefe, 1923</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkgYkpV3_ZX5G9esSL__U5T5-bDcLCer35amrTLCkamYO1RbfzTXPli8WyvgjBXYcntCsDaPx42rISTxQ4WwRjCILAPNmKzwTi6Paf2nD8BeWbnIwAGqroxG41_RMorUHuG4-AUkzbG7NX/s1600/Freeman_Bouquet.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 319px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkgYkpV3_ZX5G9esSL__U5T5-bDcLCer35amrTLCkamYO1RbfzTXPli8WyvgjBXYcntCsDaPx42rISTxQ4WwRjCILAPNmKzwTi6Paf2nD8BeWbnIwAGqroxG41_RMorUHuG4-AUkzbG7NX/s400/Freeman_Bouquet.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579475298481186674" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Hillside Bouquet</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Pastel on Ampersand Pastelbord, 16x20</span></div></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">...painted as I wanted to</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">...with energy, fullness of color, and an unusual perspective...of one of my favorite places.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">On exhibit March 4th-28th as one of the "staff's favorite picks" in the gallery at <a href="http://www.libertytownarts.com/">Liberty Town Arts</a></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyW_O9Lj-a5MxegSwPGymOhbh7_H4TT8t0ImlvrvRFHfPiOSJzKlB6fjZQJr8kR2qANiK_0gYZHm9qbQlEqLFmhE8HufHf-Zb_xkNLE03i_v_31RdHKKfyfQnOcTLwguyg4SobRob_uON/s400/LT+Staff+Picks.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579662675300951506" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 251px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-4737791394107415362011-01-21T13:42:00.011-05:002011-01-28T20:42:34.729-05:00Aquabord Surface testing<div>T<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">o my complete enjoyment, this month I have had the opportunity to "test" the new aquabord surface produced by <a href="http://www.ampersandart.com/">Ampersand Art</a>. (Thank you Andrea and Elaine!) For me...joy in painting not only comes from the art of creating, but also from the science and products used and explored. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Painting is much more than simply using some random pigments and applying them to a surface. The 'scientist' in me spends a great deal of energy...and enthusiasm...in choosing pigments...those properties and qualities that will not only lend themselves to a harmonious palette, but also enhance the longevity of the painting. I apply similar considerations when choosing a painting surface. 'Knowing' your paints, brushes, surfaces all enhance the integrity of the process...and I believe, the integrity of what is produced.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7QQtPFhEwQ3eVtYAs8lg5rOpY48Jh0RLqjt86Y7qv-5C-dhUmRQYU5yAmH0GF9pQdG94L7TiOIxH7eNoBGWOHCoqjEE8TDmq0i7_9AqYxJBk_9C7dSLEFoXFa0j186TRDOUsJYBVTqa9v/s1600/P1060739.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 318px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7QQtPFhEwQ3eVtYAs8lg5rOpY48Jh0RLqjt86Y7qv-5C-dhUmRQYU5yAmH0GF9pQdG94L7TiOIxH7eNoBGWOHCoqjEE8TDmq0i7_9AqYxJBk_9C7dSLEFoXFa0j186TRDOUsJYBVTqa9v/s320/P1060739.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567364719834795106" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Blind Date</i></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Watercolor on Ampersand Aquabord</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For the past 2-3 years, almost exclusively, I have preferred the textured clay surface produced by Ampersand. Below are a few of the elements and findings in "testing" the new surface along with my favorite characteristics of the surface. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Surface Properties:</span></span></div><div><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--StartFragment--> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Durable and reliable support…with beautiful texture effects as a result of air bubbles trapped in the surface that are released with water.</span></span></p> <!--EndFragment--> <p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Stands up well to graphite and erasing without noticeable surface damage.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Graphite erases more easily and more completely on newer surface. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Pencil mark remains visible and clear when wet</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><!--StartFragment--><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The ‘white’ of the surface I would describe as a neutral or subdued white (almost warm) Ivory color when compared to a standard white… that lends itself well to complement pigments/ pleasing color.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Similar in color to most ‘rough’ or cold pressed heavy weight watercolor papers, particularly Arches. </span></span><!--EndFragment--><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Coarse and assertive, somewhat ‘gritty’ texture.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Paint went on smooth with even drying of flat and graded washes, resulting in less backruns and blossoming.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Even when saturated, backruns and blossoming were minimal.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Pigments (even staining pigments) lifted cleanly.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I would need to test using heavier glazes to compare lift ability. </span></span></p> <!--EndFragment--> </div><div><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Pigments maintained their color and intensity…and compared to paper the intensity, value, and chroma are enhanced on this surface.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More "testing" to come...and the excitement of a new and improved surface...</span></span></p></div></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-74837693565153437152011-01-03T06:33:00.009-05:002011-01-05T06:52:50.983-05:00Ambiguity<div>Beginning the new year, my satisfaction has waned with the ultra-real paintings...those in which all the information is given. Where else in life is all the information detailed perfectly in order for you to exactly see the situation, draw the right conclusions and make the right decisions, and predict the future responses?...almost never...Similarly to the ambiguity in life situations and the excitement of not always knowing the outcome, curiosity and intrigue is created through an abstract arrangement of elements...visual elements in a painting that allow for exploration and personal interpretation.</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdK4qmQltlm6zcMj1B4Dc42nCWN4j2Vd9KArzQf0G7-E53L5ZMfh6dhIkcf8JJ_E9Q0u614N0SydpOPJWS1Ex6sABPLsI0KtesXc3-GgLwK_BHzvd-C50mZ3nrbNpUPX5fIY3qk1o-LZhd/s1600/P1060629.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 323px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdK4qmQltlm6zcMj1B4Dc42nCWN4j2Vd9KArzQf0G7-E53L5ZMfh6dhIkcf8JJ_E9Q0u614N0SydpOPJWS1Ex6sABPLsI0KtesXc3-GgLwK_BHzvd-C50mZ3nrbNpUPX5fIY3qk1o-LZhd/s400/P1060629.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558665839144657986" /></a>For me, however, there is a point where patience is lost to the vague ambiguity, as is the case with completely abstracted paintings. Visually, I prefer some representation, allowing for degrees of abstraction in shape, color and edges. I need a few answers, some plan...some information...but not everything.<div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGaim5sIjtAcOr1O1FZRsPppdMfbVfiAcioC08NVHyCNRCpJDStoGMrfBEawAXyK8bM1wqES3JBmuUwGuT8UnmTW4N0VogQgqvTCWtvgdFveFkfhagGMn9hUtLjE32szPClKnh2iU6rGB/s1600/P1060731.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGaim5sIjtAcOr1O1FZRsPppdMfbVfiAcioC08NVHyCNRCpJDStoGMrfBEawAXyK8bM1wqES3JBmuUwGuT8UnmTW4N0VogQgqvTCWtvgdFveFkfhagGMn9hUtLjE32szPClKnh2iU6rGB/s400/P1060731.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558665723119599378" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Untitled (for now)</i>, Pastel on Ampersand Pastelbord, 16x20</span></span></div><div><br /><div>And so, I find myself drawn to these pastel landscapes, responding to the watercolor foundation; those accidents that occur naturally when water and pigment react to the dry, pumiced surface of clay. Subjects still 'representative' but not quite fully developed, interpreted...standing just outside the rows of vines...seeing the vines, but not every leaf...appreciating the balance between the order and disorder of things...given just enough information to draw my own conclusions.</div></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-88070098457450923342010-12-23T07:24:00.006-05:002010-12-23T07:36:56.995-05:00Goodbye colors of fall<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Goodbye to fall...warm greens, golds, reds replaced with cool whites, blues, and browns...always in transition...and colors that reflect the transitions in life. </span></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSE7VamK22EVnQlAccL8jK8pSXgY-XgUcsb5p5cwu6qYA4O5rCLm5Fdw-9LmpuvPavURRrlyMrAxkEMqiWlswplwJguS0iBKjzgn2W6ZrtaL2lB2m9AHeJyvhqQrpnEwM9VpCx2ekXBAg/s1600/P1060578.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSE7VamK22EVnQlAccL8jK8pSXgY-XgUcsb5p5cwu6qYA4O5rCLm5Fdw-9LmpuvPavURRrlyMrAxkEMqiWlswplwJguS0iBKjzgn2W6ZrtaL2lB2m9AHeJyvhqQrpnEwM9VpCx2ekXBAg/s400/P1060578.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553852696840001042" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Colors of fall</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Pastel on Ampersand Pastelbord</span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">9x12</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Blessings of joy, peace...and warmth...this holiday season!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-62159295289984818412010-12-03T10:29:00.007-05:002010-12-03T11:07:10.307-05:00Watercolor Workshop: The Planning Phase<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Switching gears from pastel, my focus this week has been on preparations for the upcoming "Intermediate Watercolor Workshop". Having taught many workshops over the past few years, the topic for </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">this</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> class is design and composition, featuring simple still-life subjects and cast shadows. Though I realize, pigeons represent more of an <i>un-still</i> life subject. However, the principles still apply for the purposes of this class.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDlQFsQvMciEXI67JvQzUKLcUig1LaT6t-k76FuB7g2j83vSju6WQOji74THa-3J7ealuz0EMP_RCYt4kFTwJtM0epKcTl0UAhFr9EmoFIkSsQnn49QplyX6S823eMzLwgY6_bCFyy1gpp/s1600/Agave.jpg"></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZ_WNRTvsfuuhqx9kO6wB6irLAXWtjOfPABBcUxzlOiXGs-bPx9qAjUm4ZiGxK_iIRpRcJ8mscCEmCpUAt_6cEQ4aomJNyGk0o-KCsgKUl6toFOqhGTGLQ4o0slphOmdP91W3eAMzYL3J/s400/PeckingOrder.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546485600181230322" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 304px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA781MGZSqTzorAVBhwF7evMLbUrJ9Iav6K7_OmwtoRnfKtBMXjyqHOzweL1OJGLuBy7kh0Hjwi2CGJJtYroGK8WAjeo__L9hPuo2AKPOwx4UAEQlmhpDFCDFXppLT7ZH5w3we1pmEnQdG/s1600/TheSpaceBetween.jpg"></a></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">The challenge...f</span><span style="color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">inding a unique, unusual perspective of the subject, possibly even abstracted, considering composition design structures, interesting value shapes, positive and negative space shapes. </span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA781MGZSqTzorAVBhwF7evMLbUrJ9Iav6K7_OmwtoRnfKtBMXjyqHOzweL1OJGLuBy7kh0Hjwi2CGJJtYroGK8WAjeo__L9hPuo2AKPOwx4UAEQlmhpDFCDFXppLT7ZH5w3we1pmEnQdG/s400/TheSpaceBetween.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546482060971038306" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 310px; " /></span><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">One method I use for doing this is to s</span></i><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">implify the reference, focusing on the areas that draw my attention, catch my eye, or trigger an emotion. I will often squint my eyes to minimize the shapes so I can see the simplified values and shapes...walk around the subject, using a viewfinder or camera to crop the image...and the finally, sketch various compositions. </span></span></div><!--StartFragment--> <!--EndFragment--> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRUcRU3DIwWoeOt83V5X2NQoeNcZPLHUANzJq0jlC_G99CJFs2lpzbnYVB6_h4I6rjGAgv0GU10nzSE69ns-GVgQdr3YTWJ9kkdembKxNPqH4xM9eB3skS2TKved9S_Q9qoHY3TZLRdVgL/s1600/P1060538.JPG"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRUcRU3DIwWoeOt83V5X2NQoeNcZPLHUANzJq0jlC_G99CJFs2lpzbnYVB6_h4I6rjGAgv0GU10nzSE69ns-GVgQdr3YTWJ9kkdembKxNPqH4xM9eB3skS2TKved9S_Q9qoHY3TZLRdVgL/s400/P1060538.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546480269802861106" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">These small sketches will serve as "tests" for the design and composition. Here I am considering h</span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">ow I will you break up the space, w</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">hat is the most interesting and pleasing arrangement or perspective of the positive and negative shapes, am I going to use a design structure for my composition, how does the light move across the forms, etc.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> </span><!--EndFragment--><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YivAJTRGDgLQopsy8uePWDB9LhbGGhsIhDnbWrxSjZvywYUiSPz1KIsPBUotThHmSgKCKAeuG5zbdbaYVc30E8b7nOrkFHj1myON-PKzW5DC6aYR2EZrwQJrKfg7bkdUKZtC0vaDVUw5/s1600/P1060539.jpg"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YivAJTRGDgLQopsy8uePWDB9LhbGGhsIhDnbWrxSjZvywYUiSPz1KIsPBUotThHmSgKCKAeuG5zbdbaYVc30E8b7nOrkFHj1myON-PKzW5DC6aYR2EZrwQJrKfg7bkdUKZtC0vaDVUw5/s400/P1060539.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546480089111055986" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">The "test" is where most of the decision making gets done...if something doesn't work...no worries...I'm not committed or married to the composition...just trying it out.</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9s_6riFX7EaqVbql2dsg3kS9t9-TcrzzibI07TEhTZ4p5k9oKGoXY_C8ucv1lRk_VJ4BS0mhdp-Pg-VUydVvX61i0iGEyuSEQdp-NKfA4_ej-sv0DngNjXKkK0gFC6GdJ2G3-Ruzlm3EH/s1600/P1060535.JPG"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 250px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9s_6riFX7EaqVbql2dsg3kS9t9-TcrzzibI07TEhTZ4p5k9oKGoXY_C8ucv1lRk_VJ4BS0mhdp-Pg-VUydVvX61i0iGEyuSEQdp-NKfA4_ej-sv0DngNjXKkK0gFC6GdJ2G3-Ruzlm3EH/s400/P1060535.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546479932658493586" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Workshop participants are welcome to work through a few of these sketches prior to class. We will spend a good part of the morning looking at your subjects, finding interesting compositions and considering design elements. Below are a few other examples of subjects that work well for this challenge or follow the link to see some examples from a </span><a href="http://arielfreeman.blogspot.com/2010/04/blog-post.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">similar class</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> earlier in the year.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDlQFsQvMciEXI67JvQzUKLcUig1LaT6t-k76FuB7g2j83vSju6WQOji74THa-3J7ealuz0EMP_RCYt4kFTwJtM0epKcTl0UAhFr9EmoFIkSsQnn49QplyX6S823eMzLwgY6_bCFyy1gpp/s400/Agave.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546486347288466226" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 399px; " /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And for those of you in class who just </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">love</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> to paint florals (as I do)...another example.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Happy Planning!</span></span></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-55028805091366015682010-11-28T14:30:00.011-05:002010-11-28T15:14:22.749-05:00Less Blogging, More Painting<div>C<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">losing out the Thanksgiving week, I am reminded that 'Thanksgiving' is not just a holiday...but thanks giving is a state of mind that should be carried with us every day. I am thankful for many things this week...most notably, my friends and family who uplift and enrich my life.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJW-Wg7maFuwfXFo4SlM7REfpGBfI9hGjirlGE_9g9565YluGID9agt3NoqRpkkaRyUQ7-3GTvYMuXc4EHvyZrVLO4f3dcYA8EV21wZrMZ0nxpc44Qsfd6sS59wSOhH_uy7stWG29ddCU/s1600/P1060489.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJW-Wg7maFuwfXFo4SlM7REfpGBfI9hGjirlGE_9g9565YluGID9agt3NoqRpkkaRyUQ7-3GTvYMuXc4EHvyZrVLO4f3dcYA8EV21wZrMZ0nxpc44Qsfd6sS59wSOhH_uy7stWG29ddCU/s400/P1060489.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544687261101275346" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Serendipity</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">9X12</span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Paste</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">l on Ampersand Pastelbord</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">'Tis the season for small works... perfect for me, stripped down to the essentials of time, no time for large works, delay, analysis, procrastination...self doubt...only time for the fervor of work, and creative energy. In this fervor, I am finding a flow and rhythm in landscapes (that until now, I have unintentionally avoided), responding to the watercolor underpainting with a deeper sense of expression and intimacy... and with an efficiency that comes from the pressure imposed by time. </span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">A few of these landscapes will be on display for the "Small Works" exhibit opening</div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Friday Dec 6th at </span><a href="http://www.libertytownarts.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Liberty Town Arts</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> in Fredericksburg.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Paintings will also be on exhibit in December...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.workhousearts.org">The Workhouse Arts Center at Lorton</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Merger of Art and Design: <i>MAD</i> Artist! Designer's Choice Exhibit</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Nov 22nd-Jan 4th</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">as well as</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.fccava.org">The Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Small Wonders</i> National Juried Exhibition</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Dec 6th- Jan 28th</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#993300;">Happy Thanks Giving today and every day!</span></span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div></div></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-58829700191304829112010-11-03T14:26:00.010-04:002010-11-07T15:31:59.685-05:00Southwest Art Top 50 Finalist<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcZXEHt6lrIQ9QKo7TBUBem9Qh3GoB32U9LVLuKmh8tIfeUrjSBJW_1Ym4HZSqTkLYXmTRu-J4myqGx-JfAntpiWMAHLcIYG7nDcPvggS8aH92JH-E3Z3DZobCBYqVGqd0jzoHo9dwzqlf/s1600/SecretPlaces.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcZXEHt6lrIQ9QKo7TBUBem9Qh3GoB32U9LVLuKmh8tIfeUrjSBJW_1Ym4HZSqTkLYXmTRu-J4myqGx-JfAntpiWMAHLcIYG7nDcPvggS8aH92JH-E3Z3DZobCBYqVGqd0jzoHo9dwzqlf/s400/SecretPlaces.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535393301090607202" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Secret Places</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Watercolor on Aquabord, 22x30</span></span></div><div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">As an ode to my southern Texas roots, I entered this painting in a juried competition with </span><a href="http://www.southwestart.com/articles-interviews/emerging-artists/21-over-31-more-great-entries"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Southwest Art</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">, entitled "21 over 31" for their November magazine issue. Though the scene for this painting came from a small Virginia town, the image seems to transcend location, recalling those places in so many small towns...that draw in curiosity and the potential of undiscovered treasures. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Among the company of over 3000 entries, "Secret Places," didn't quite make the "21", but was selected as one of the top 50 finalist. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; ">To see the winners and some amazing "runner-ups," visit their <a href="http://www.southwestart.com/articles-interviews/emerging-artists/21-over-31-more-great-entries">website</a>.</span><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And finally...after many trips here and there around Virginia, "Secret Places" is "home", on exhibit in my studio at </span><a href="http://www.libertytownarts.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Liberty Town</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">. If you are in the downtown Fredericksburg area, stop by and check it out.</span></span></span></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-76116309571418991782010-10-21T15:20:00.004-04:002010-10-22T10:32:42.986-04:00Poetic energy of underpainting<div>In pastel, my comfort in painting leans toward what I would term "ultra-realism" . I typically work spatially completing section by section, piecing together lines and shapes, that when completed, works as a whole.</div><div><br /></div><div>Challenging myself for a looser interpretation (as I often see a landscape), I wanted, instead, to respond to the poetry of the underpainting, the poetry of shapes and mingled color. I began on white (which I almost never do) ampersand pastelbord that can handle alot of water, pigment, and pastel. Considering the harmony color, temperature, and with the goal of creating luminous contrasts of blue and gold, I began to add color...no worries about mess, details or representation, simply looking for a response to the energy of the landscape. </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0nI2fRmLnimGVt4eb6WbWWMidKgcIIek0Tll1Y2YK4aAvAWmc-DMBpGosBQm7nTR1id6rPKkrjd8QZE6Ila4_kV83piFZ6geEgaFfDX0LT9fQTvJfaWjNl8ER3JiZroNQNWJv6xxp1joj/s1600/P1060181.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0nI2fRmLnimGVt4eb6WbWWMidKgcIIek0Tll1Y2YK4aAvAWmc-DMBpGosBQm7nTR1id6rPKkrjd8QZE6Ila4_kV83piFZ6geEgaFfDX0LT9fQTvJfaWjNl8ER3JiZroNQNWJv6xxp1joj/s400/P1060181.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530582751748891426" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The watercolor "underpainting"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>As a watercolorist, I found myself tempted to approach this underpainting as I would a finished watercolor, working light to dark, wet-into-wet, glazing layers...but then this will be a pastel, on pastelbord. The underpainting will only serve to create a base (mostly covered with pastel) of warmth and value and give direction to the pastel that will come later... hopefully a loosely interpreted poetic landscape.</div><div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKLMYN6kigvjk7XrSQw-cPvHnZIN4XHIlF23k1UwcEj087UQwbRCx7NqSf0Yib-BfgEqaRkWZg4mPUrTVXv5SmIDGgK4wsFgR2lJOnjH4fm22FB-In2EyxFmd8XRtzBkgSKBP2_H8SKbM/s1600/P1060183.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKLMYN6kigvjk7XrSQw-cPvHnZIN4XHIlF23k1UwcEj087UQwbRCx7NqSf0Yib-BfgEqaRkWZg4mPUrTVXv5SmIDGgK4wsFgR2lJOnjH4fm22FB-In2EyxFmd8XRtzBkgSKBP2_H8SKbM/s400/P1060183.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530582591242342130" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The "later"... untitled</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pastel on Ampersand Pastelbord</div><div style="text-align: center;">9X12</div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-59979410264459089802010-10-04T19:19:00.005-04:002010-10-04T19:49:35.966-04:00Featured at Lorton Arts<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk24gUJEVZujOkreWhknMCBEXRFqTrRVUhfFoG34bnlPPpH7QKNw7cQRorfA1L0EixmZHBPCtWC9jNruTYF6-d1QJ04nZwqcwia28iXaOKZvInZBl7xk0LTetwtriCaMObtO3X0Ud6B23X/s1600/workhouseimage.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 189px; height: 168px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk24gUJEVZujOkreWhknMCBEXRFqTrRVUhfFoG34bnlPPpH7QKNw7cQRorfA1L0EixmZHBPCtWC9jNruTYF6-d1QJ04nZwqcwia28iXaOKZvInZBl7xk0LTetwtriCaMObtO3X0Ud6B23X/s400/workhouseimage.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524341202600418386" /></a><br /><div>Orchestrating lines, positioning, contrast of imagery, harmony of values, color intensity, analyzing compositional placement...I <i>must</i> be painting... </div><div><br /></div><div>...Well not quite...today the show went up at Lorton Arts and will be on exhibit through Nov 7th. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am amazed at all the factors involved in hanging a show (though I have done quite a few now), and how painful the process can be. Placement of paintings on a wall is an "art" in itself, one which I struggle with for every show. The most valuable lesson learned from today...never underestimate the value of help, everyone has a different "eye" and process for installation. Thank you Bonnie and Kathleen! I couldn't have done it without you. </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA_Mfj-tPPK_AoZdrQvWf4gct_bpvT8YhTfDR-NFZtRL4DhLlXFzHvZxbewwlNCQif2CwlzDUOR3741IxLg1hn8fs8InKuMNJkaxEm_dmzh42xyMq4UyhRxfhyphenhyphenxDgXtDhwEc1rT_XZjKIg/s1600/P1060165.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA_Mfj-tPPK_AoZdrQvWf4gct_bpvT8YhTfDR-NFZtRL4DhLlXFzHvZxbewwlNCQif2CwlzDUOR3741IxLg1hn8fs8InKuMNJkaxEm_dmzh42xyMq4UyhRxfhyphenhyphenxDgXtDhwEc1rT_XZjKIg/s400/P1060165.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524334753049931634" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663333;">Exhibiting Oct 4th-Nov 7th</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Workhouse Arts Center</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Gallery 16</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663300;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Opening Reception</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663300;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Saturday, Oct 9th, 6-9p</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663300;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#663300;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 15.8333px; "><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">9601 Ox Road</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Lorton Arts, Lorton, VA</span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.workhousearts.org/">www.workhousearts.org</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15.8333px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">703-495-0001</span></span></div></span></span></span></span></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-21498543705321674082010-09-24T19:05:00.005-04:002010-09-25T15:01:13.448-04:00The curious world of Iris<div>There have been many "starts and stops" to this painting over the past few months. Each time returning to work, I find myself re-evaluating my intention..what is it I see here?...what is it about this painting that keeps me returning? After all, a new day, brings new perspective (both in life and in art)...new interpretations, new insights. </div><div><br /></div><div>So I have to ask myself...can my intention be the same each time I return..what I see in the image be the same...when I have changed from day to day? I don't believe it can..exactly; the mood, aesthetic, and way of seeing have changed. I notice these subtle difference in the way I have approached different areas each time following a pause in work. The challenge is in finding harmony among the various "intentions" within the painting and exploring the curiosity that attracted me in the beginning.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, what is the intention here? Of course, most will see "flowers"; the iris a symbol for hope, faith and wisdom. But today I see energy, curious wonder in the flow of line, lost and found shapes, and the statement of color. </div><div> </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPdGZQ8cB5SdG8NslPSk3gVgD8aaVeEES7oxrbTYyKvL5GqxXvnWu4tSIVKqT0eNRWfT7k5pN1HknCljtlp0ei_7WEle2uinJduIOTOCFGvN5j5KZDbQ62M466Chj7B1D6jrfAmbg3tWXq/s1600/P1060036.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 318px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPdGZQ8cB5SdG8NslPSk3gVgD8aaVeEES7oxrbTYyKvL5GqxXvnWu4tSIVKqT0eNRWfT7k5pN1HknCljtlp0ei_7WEle2uinJduIOTOCFGvN5j5KZDbQ62M466Chj7B1D6jrfAmbg3tWXq/s400/P1060036.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5520620280528857474" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">The curious world of Iris</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pastel on Ampersand <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Pastelbord</span>, 16X20</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">On Exhibit October 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span>-November 8<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">@</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">The Workhouse Arts Center, Gallery 16</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Lorton</span> Arts Foundation</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-73292506199151629982010-09-10T06:20:00.003-04:002010-09-10T06:58:57.322-04:00Life has taken hold<div>Has it really been 3 weeks since my last post? Graduate school, coordinating preschool and elementary school schedules, children's social calendar, responsibilities at work, at home, etc, etc. have consumed my time... (sigh) leaving little room for conceptualizing art and painting...and therefore, little time or fuel for blogging. </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmKLwGc0Lr6pK72H2eBh9zf5Hu-Y7bKsyJ_wCETjcPDdlIq1_wIM84oYrxnrJSAwERC68mStHGxbL1VFCOgu95rlZukr2wZh4AzzUg7yNix2pKkV7eTRTW0D1lt3EseAQD6TLxIEXRRs0r/s1600/P1050990.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmKLwGc0Lr6pK72H2eBh9zf5Hu-Y7bKsyJ_wCETjcPDdlIq1_wIM84oYrxnrJSAwERC68mStHGxbL1VFCOgu95rlZukr2wZh4AzzUg7yNix2pKkV7eTRTW0D1lt3EseAQD6TLxIEXRRs0r/s400/P1050990.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515228115393401666" /></a>Struggling for balance, I find myself retreating from the unnecessary... "stuff" that I often feel compelled to do relating to art... the exhibits, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">juried</span> competitions, gallery responsibilities...and even teaching and blogging. Allowing time for the doing...allowing myself the time to clear the chatter in my mind and paint. Art is good for that, not only in the doing, but also the viewing...quieting chatter...calming the spirit.<br /><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKhuwAcGEeu772GLfEoQYaQC2P5-MomviSbiIHRPQ-NHnBwGZDnEsWs-gQJi_2I27ZDlfKzuoO_SYXMwfLVkRab9r009RRBNwswr69XTf1L2mWMBEqZBzbCPGzRAnW3-g_xlI3XRZjSQZ/s1600/P1050592.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKhuwAcGEeu772GLfEoQYaQC2P5-MomviSbiIHRPQ-NHnBwGZDnEsWs-gQJi_2I27ZDlfKzuoO_SYXMwfLVkRab9r009RRBNwswr69XTf1L2mWMBEqZBzbCPGzRAnW3-g_xlI3XRZjSQZ/s400/P1050592.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515227972339001042" /></a>This is a painting in progress I began a few weeks ago. Pastel (18X24) on an Ampersand <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Pastelbord</span>. Most <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">pastelist</span> will agree I have an odd method for approaching the painting...to compartmentalize and work a section to completion. Having never taken a pastel class, this process feels natural for me. Much of my work is grounded in realism and therefore, requires a degree of spatial believability. That is...for me to create the feeling of perspective necessary to make this object (a stem) appear in front of that object (a blossoming bud for example), I must work that shape in the order as it occurs in space (from back to front). Since I have tested the composition and design as either a thumbnail value study (or after so many, in my mind), I have a mental picture of what the completed painting needs to be, the placement of lines, shapes, values to make the painting work and maintain a sense of harmony. For me, pastel is a precise medium, every stroke deliberately placed. If I have plan and know where I am going from the beginning, I can work one shape at a time. Sure, I probably don't have to work each shape to completion...but I just can't help myself...each shape is beautiful in itself.ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-26596080642460795822010-08-16T09:33:00.003-04:002010-08-16T09:39:55.403-04:00Vacation sketching<div>I envy the nature of children. Four strangers on a tire swing, one mission...to go higher. No awkward introductions, no discussion of terms, no fear of being hurt. Simple business...get on, push and pull together, enjoy the ride. </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJiFiSF1dA1MknhmtMl7cc-AQ6PDW719gG9GTlUlL8DhyQNwJB_LKiJP751GSAU5KwvJYSqspKpIR_Spdy5T7i7yq_JmEYFQ0tQjVmoNFa_A_r1-Str2e1QaaLjDjbP7ayDU4l107MUon/s1600/P1050591.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJiFiSF1dA1MknhmtMl7cc-AQ6PDW719gG9GTlUlL8DhyQNwJB_LKiJP751GSAU5KwvJYSqspKpIR_Spdy5T7i7yq_JmEYFQ0tQjVmoNFa_A_r1-Str2e1QaaLjDjbP7ayDU4l107MUon/s400/P1050591.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506000462734760098" /></a><i><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><i>Perfect Strangers</i> from my watercolor sketchbook.</span></div></i>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-55321966966422765712010-08-04T06:51:00.010-04:002010-08-05T07:04:29.634-04:00Uniquely Fredericksburg<div>Sweaty palms, heart pounding, nervous conversation...what is this, the first day of high school? Not quite, though the symptoms feel the same...just another drop-off for a juried competition, <i>Uniquely Fredericksburg, </i>a biennial art show celebrating the unique Fredericksburg experience. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Carl's Ice Cream (an iconic stop in Fredericksburg for over 50 years) has been masterfully painted countless times. It is probably the most painted recognizable image in Fredericksburg. They are open February through the heat of summer serving frozen custard to a line of visitors that often wraps around the parking lot. Who doesn't love a good frozen custard (aka: ice cream to the non-locals)? </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, my goal was to present Carl's in a way no one had done it before...something more than a perfect portrait or whimsical, predictable building-scape (is that the right word?). Below is one of my favorite images (my in-laws), though maybe some would consider, less than flattering. I, however, love the casual, yet attentive attitude of the participants that so fits the personality and eccentricity of the residents and tourists in Fredericksburg.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I will be the first to admit I am not a "portrait" painter, just as I am not a "water-in-glass-vase" painter. I am, however, a shape and value painter in search of an unique, simplified perspective, whose subject this time happens to be people. This painting pulls together what I love most in watercolor...textures, blooms and glazes that create shapes of varied values and color mingling; shapes that alone would appear abstract, but when viewed together add up to a realistic (or should I say representational) image. I have heard from jurors that sometimes their decisions will vary depending on their breakfast. I hope this juror has a bland, boring breakfast...leaving her wanting for something more...maybe a curious painting of Carl's "thugs".</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY1t6VMkbEnmJuzsw8a5ydMZy5eC78r3hBvNGTk91tSCLHDW5Geo-lP902BuZy39_4AUot4k97Ys3lNJ_bEGcnnHNNsXsqF__xIUbg3M83fQz2Z1TzLE84A-nRNt48G8x90r9s3qePQ2O4/s1600/AfternoonThugs.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 314px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY1t6VMkbEnmJuzsw8a5ydMZy5eC78r3hBvNGTk91tSCLHDW5Geo-lP902BuZy39_4AUot4k97Ys3lNJ_bEGcnnHNNsXsqF__xIUbg3M83fQz2Z1TzLE84A-nRNt48G8x90r9s3qePQ2O4/s400/AfternoonThugs.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501505749317842482" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Afternoon Thugs</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Watercolor on Ampersand Aquabord</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">16x20</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><b><i>Uniquely Fredericksburg</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Opening Reception and Awards</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Today! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">(August 5th, 5-7p)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.librarypoint.org/">CRRL Headquarters Library</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">1201 Caroline St, Fredericksburg</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-19323867700687616452010-07-22T14:30:00.007-04:002010-07-23T09:05:41.327-04:00On the Line<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnjc8rOYHrAo29uOxEmGQQB7c0j7FoegOek7cfPKqq6vlmh1ojRFG6tb7yes0X_cRMxhB6cxavUFbDKUHiF4cfkQnVsztrtQKITaD3Tl23ROarRkeNRHRvKXGQhFDX56lQv4Sta5kPKAw/s1600/OnTheLine.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 269px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnjc8rOYHrAo29uOxEmGQQB7c0j7FoegOek7cfPKqq6vlmh1ojRFG6tb7yes0X_cRMxhB6cxavUFbDKUHiF4cfkQnVsztrtQKITaD3Tl23ROarRkeNRHRvKXGQhFDX56lQv4Sta5kPKAw/s400/OnTheLine.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497084611463349154" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>On the Line</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Watercolor on Aquabord, 18x22</span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">On exhibit at <a href="http://kybeccawinebar.com">Kybecca</a> through August</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div>I often struggle with my apparent lack of cohesion among various painting. I have quite a randomness in interest, style, approach to painting in both watercolor and pastel. But lately, I have been searching for common ground... something to grasp as a cohesive style...and then I realized...maybe style, approach and subject aren't the common factors. My main concerns, regardless of subject, are always composition, value, and contrast. Contrast creates emphasis and interest. In particular, contrasting and exaggerating value develops drama through depth and gets the viewer's attention. The search continues...</div></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-29283468703143097282010-07-11T16:06:00.008-04:002010-07-11T19:10:20.918-04:00Exhibiting Art at Kybecca<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZssFOybGu_V-GjwhRZoOxNqeopZTLNXD0iW6blcVNAG2sdXvCa9vtpcuPFAx_q3UNFNdVndlaKUau7kpKRqqoClprD6p4Wjresc6bwnm-xXzrWjwg7sRvMzYasz-9HEt5vENp5c-lRiP2/s1600/kybecca_logo2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 124px; height: 67px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZssFOybGu_V-GjwhRZoOxNqeopZTLNXD0iW6blcVNAG2sdXvCa9vtpcuPFAx_q3UNFNdVndlaKUau7kpKRqqoClprD6p4Wjresc6bwnm-xXzrWjwg7sRvMzYasz-9HEt5vENp5c-lRiP2/s400/kybecca_logo2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492742935123088242" /></a><br /><div>Recently, I was invited to exhibit artwork at one of my favorite "wine and tapas" bar in Fredericksburg...for July and August. The artist initially scheduled for this time was not going to be able to show, so the owner was looking for someone to fill in. Did I mention I had 4 days notice? Following my initial reaction..."No way...can I come up with a collection of artwork to fill the space (20 or so paintings) on such short notice"...I came to my senses, did a reconnaissance (a word from my previous life) of the space and an inventory of paintings and their locations...and accepted. <div><br /></div><div>My realization...doing a "short notice" show is the best way to have one...no fuss, no pre-show stress to produce work, no nervous anticipation building up to the opening reception. I simply hang and show my work, as is. <div><br /></div><div>And so, I will have 23 paintings on exhibit at Kybecca, including 5 new works on aquabord, until September. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Exhibit July 12th through August 2010</span></i></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZssFOybGu_V-GjwhRZoOxNqeopZTLNXD0iW6blcVNAG2sdXvCa9vtpcuPFAx_q3UNFNdVndlaKUau7kpKRqqoClprD6p4Wjresc6bwnm-xXzrWjwg7sRvMzYasz-9HEt5vENp5c-lRiP2/s400/kybecca_logo2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492742935123088242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 124px; height: 67px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">400 William St</div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Fredericksburg, Va</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://kybeccawinebar.com/">kybeccawinebar.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15.8333px; ">If you are in the downtown Fredericksburg area over the next couple of months, I invite you to stop by Kybecca for great wine and tapas, and to view art.</span></div><div><br /></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-12786564201079705512010-06-24T14:53:00.005-04:002010-06-24T15:01:51.593-04:00Even Traffic...<div><br /></div><div>...can be beautiful (thank you Stephanie). </div><div><br /></div><div>I am amazed how we can experience the same moments day in, day out and not really "see" them...their simple beauty. Sometimes as artists, we spend so much energy searching for that "beautiful" composition, subject, landscape...and then sometimes (as is most often the case for me)...it finds us. </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQil-yoEtVo301eiNXqDASyHzI1_WC6qS7n0FxrLiQskHQZjbmxbNW7avDnfn5PLnr1h7iJ9cd34L2xYB_tuEe5UV9n7-pxpIYMYiBkJV9AC2dEbSgofd-dNaXUk_pP6XczR22yVXjEgmR/s1600/P1050370.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQil-yoEtVo301eiNXqDASyHzI1_WC6qS7n0FxrLiQskHQZjbmxbNW7avDnfn5PLnr1h7iJ9cd34L2xYB_tuEe5UV9n7-pxpIYMYiBkJV9AC2dEbSgofd-dNaXUk_pP6XczR22yVXjEgmR/s400/P1050370.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486415311498025250" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">"<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">The landscape listens and we hear it call our name."</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Emily Dickinson </i></span></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-74863082294589128132010-06-18T07:08:00.005-04:002010-06-18T15:06:30.012-04:00Simplifying Mass Shapes<div>Before focussing on the details and extra "stuff" in a painting, I first try to focus on the mass shapes and values...the simple [or not so simple] elements that make up the structure of the composition. As noted from my previous post, I have divided my landscape into 3 mass shapes of light (sky), middle (foreground pavement), and dark (mid-ground treeline) value. Breaking down the scene into abstract shapes, I am assigning color to those mass value shapes, disregarding (attempting to anyway) the smaller value and color accents. </div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgTQTqMlMnb5alEiGuAfZqoSLKGarPhkVvsQOqmLxCj_sJlUJoVhsDffVURrITuK7HGgm99pJgjcqVyu-z0AWWmLkBLni72kL2NmDLlaGyNIhjx4Stx1rCVv0roIAD1KePrHmnR7Tj8BW/s1600/P1050335.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgTQTqMlMnb5alEiGuAfZqoSLKGarPhkVvsQOqmLxCj_sJlUJoVhsDffVURrITuK7HGgm99pJgjcqVyu-z0AWWmLkBLni72kL2NmDLlaGyNIhjx4Stx1rCVv0roIAD1KePrHmnR7Tj8BW/s400/P1050335.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484069070250358322" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3wgHaLn8x1VkQ5kv4_E284-DEyvKm6N4lb1LcJjF2M44SBEsZDLIXLCr8A-bp7WLTelQzvckvCEfFD_Xu21l9pchAfiGAZKmflc6UoHi3ldkZvUiUdrzRdJiJ4Rw0qgjTnXhkfFonoe3r/s1600/P1050366.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3wgHaLn8x1VkQ5kv4_E284-DEyvKm6N4lb1LcJjF2M44SBEsZDLIXLCr8A-bp7WLTelQzvckvCEfFD_Xu21l9pchAfiGAZKmflc6UoHi3ldkZvUiUdrzRdJiJ4Rw0qgjTnXhkfFonoe3r/s400/P1050366.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484185857270989906" /></a>These value masses, serve as a reference to relate other values in the painting. Now I can expand on the mass shapes, adding subtle value, color, and temperature accents. Supporting the value structure (and perspective) identified in my thumbnail sketch, will enhance the paintings overall "readability."<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">"The most important ally in the study of painting is the art of thinking." </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;">Edgar Payne's <i>Composition of Outdoor Painting</i></span></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-36639119455843080002010-06-11T16:11:00.006-04:002010-06-11T16:53:20.485-04:00A little planning<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9WWoKLxuj8TT8K5LHOoNAE0HIReWfTh6i41omqJ5j_RVkryqlKtiPePfjW-CaSjCMSTOgXvY7u0GZjfM0LTK6QWofDht_Tp3FwvUFM7Cyjjp6ouoIEHtbLprqWfzg_7PQ7gFvxosa4JK0/s1600/P1050333.JPG"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDAVaIfEqK7kMi7fzmDIFUdDMe6LS1yzwRr0IBvpt95RLjX8Lqoe6H3CyxZ6bIwy97zqTSUHC24Y3PkD8c9BKhDOCDUoVrXQBAEgMh3_JROeO-wR0yD-n6Vg87qdG_2gtZFtZW1tJQLHG/s1600/Jan+4,2009+040.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDAVaIfEqK7kMi7fzmDIFUdDMe6LS1yzwRr0IBvpt95RLjX8Lqoe6H3CyxZ6bIwy97zqTSUHC24Y3PkD8c9BKhDOCDUoVrXQBAEgMh3_JROeO-wR0yD-n6Vg87qdG_2gtZFtZW1tJQLHG/s400/Jan+4,2009+040.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481613732978734210" /></a><div>I often spend the first day of beginning class (watercolor or pastel), convincing beginning painters the value of a little planning. Most beginning artists want to jump right in, not wasting time looking for a good composition or value sketching. These terms are almost as dreaded as the capital "D"...drawing. However, as I have mentioned in many previous posts, this step is crucial for me and will save me (and beginning painters) much time and frustration...and will most likely produce a better painting. The principle for me... vision in a concept and a little pre-planning in composition, design principles, and value (and yes, a little drawing) are what will make a painting work...technique will come with time and practice but will not make a painting successful (though well crafted). I am sure some will argue this point.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9WWoKLxuj8TT8K5LHOoNAE0HIReWfTh6i41omqJ5j_RVkryqlKtiPePfjW-CaSjCMSTOgXvY7u0GZjfM0LTK6QWofDht_Tp3FwvUFM7Cyjjp6ouoIEHtbLprqWfzg_7PQ7gFvxosa4JK0/s200/P1050333.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481614223590663074" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 178px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Keep the plan simple, simplify mass value shapes...light, mid-value, dark...doodle, sketch, erase, play with various perspectives, cropping, and value patterns. Value and appreciate this step. There isn't any pressure here, no need for a finished drawing or painting.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Some tips for "testing" your design. Follow your eyes as they move around the sketch.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>1. Does our eye travel effortlessly around the painting, through the light and dark shapes?</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>2. What is the visual movement in the painting? Have I directed it using line, repetition of shapes, overlapping shapes, "linking" values in a painting, via soft and hard edges in a painting? </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>3. Do I have a pleasing arrangement and variety of shapes, patterns and values? How did I break up the space? Is the space divided in a pleasing way? </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>4. Is my perspective "readable"? (Even a 3 min value study, simplified to mass values and shapes, is "readable" on paper). </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>5. Are my eyes led to a focal area?...away from the focal area and back in again? Do I have a secondary area of interest? How does the viewer travel from one to the other? </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i> </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>6. And finally, do I have visual excitement and spatial organization?</i></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-64450616853632722672010-06-04T14:17:00.006-04:002010-06-06T07:02:59.584-04:00Funky Pigeon Facts<div>Finishing up the couple of pigeon paintings I had started last week, I thought I should research a little about the birds. Never really thought twice about them, until I put the painting together. Now I have a new respect for the birds and their position in the world. I can't exactly say why I chose to do these little paintings other than I really enjoy the simplicity and structure of the compositions.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLoCX5uE95KpyR7cOvLOnlG1Ni9SRF-8eyQZl0OO9dOufKtyFFub-oWr4ClGsLBlzzdAqrE_6phIKfBTqhx0AxASJYHw_VqW-X4u-nfhlwNA0Aj3gdhAaPhaF7TwYs6mMoWNbFLyFvudj/s1600/P1050312.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLoCX5uE95KpyR7cOvLOnlG1Ni9SRF-8eyQZl0OO9dOufKtyFFub-oWr4ClGsLBlzzdAqrE_6phIKfBTqhx0AxASJYHw_VqW-X4u-nfhlwNA0Aj3gdhAaPhaF7TwYs6mMoWNbFLyFvudj/s400/P1050312.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478984981299986674" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Circle of Friends</i></span> 11X14, watercolor on Ampersand aquabord (above)</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Pecking Order</i></span> 11X14, watercolor on Ampersand aquabord(below)</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijoWVXd_G4GuT_la2oXOfnRS5N3KB5cr3hZ7CuebOMtDEycMLFhkccLikh50JMGeinlKa4tnfy0QCkCt17szIEjAnGJo8OR0Qajo9MUUPoreKzXSKekXdkDKGusXyu3nPJs71e0mms6s9_/s1600/P1050309.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijoWVXd_G4GuT_la2oXOfnRS5N3KB5cr3hZ7CuebOMtDEycMLFhkccLikh50JMGeinlKa4tnfy0QCkCt17szIEjAnGJo8OR0Qajo9MUUPoreKzXSKekXdkDKGusXyu3nPJs71e0mms6s9_/s400/P1050309.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478984626860741826" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:"Century Gothic";mso-fareast-font-family: "Century Gothic";mso-bidi-Century Gothic"font-family:";"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Homing Pigeons have been known to fly 700 miles in a day. A 10 year study carried out by Oxford University concluded that pigeons use roads and freeways to navigate, in some cases changing direction at freeway junctions.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:"Century Gothic"; mso-bidi-mso-bidi-font-style:italicfont-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span style="font-family:"Century Gothic";mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">2.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Pigeons achieved a 98% success rate in the missions flown in WW II, despite enemy fire, and often with mortal injuries to themselves.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">3.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Pigeons are still used today by the French, Swiss, Israeli, Iraqi and Chinese Armies.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">4.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Noah's Dove was most likely a homing pigeon.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">5.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">They were used by the Greeks more than 5,000 years ago.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">6.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">They are bred, raised and trained as good as Thoroughbred Horses (four million or so worldwide).</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">7.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">They have been known to see very well over a 26 mile distance.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">8.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Scientist believe they may hear wind blowing over mountains from hundreds of miles away. The ability to hear sounds 11 octaves below middle C allow the pigeons to detect earthquakes and electrical storms.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">9.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In the late 1800 the most heroic recorded flight was from a pigeon that was released in Africa and took 55 days to get home in England. Traveling over 7,000 miles.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">10.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Unless separated, pigeons mate for life.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">They have been known to live over 30 years.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Both parents feed their young milk.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">11.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> In the 17th century, King</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">George I of England, decreed all pigeon droppings to be property of the Crown—and the “lofts” were policed to enforce the law! (Pigeon manure was used in making gunpowder)</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">12.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The pigeon has the rare ability for a large bird to be able to fly nearly straight up.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">13.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Advanced studies at the University of Montana conclude: “Pound for pound, columba livia (the pigeon) is one of the smartest, most physically adept creatures in the animal kingdom.” The pigeon can pass a mirror test, recognizing it’s own reflection, and is only one of 6 species, and the only non-mammal, that has this ability.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The pigeon can recognize all 26 letters of the English language as well differentiate between photographs and even between two different human beings in a photograph.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">14.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Pigeons are the only bird in the world that do not have to lift their head to swallow water.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">15.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">When the pigeon is in long flight, it reaches back and holds on to the short tail feathers with its feet in order to save energy from holding its legs up.</span></span></i><span style=" font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Times;mso-fareast-font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">16.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">During breeding season, when there are more than a few babies on the floor, all parents will feed all babies, even if they are not their own. </span></span></i><span style="font-family:Times; mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:16.0pt; margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in;mso-pagination:none;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops:11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">17.</span><span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span><i><span style="font-family: Times;mso-bidi-font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Why do you never see baby pigeons? Pigeons lay only 2 eggs at a time, and then spoil those babies shamefully.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The parents feed the babies until they’re totally fat, happy, and freathered out.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">By the time they leave the nests, they are the same size as adults.</span></span></i><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi- font-family:Arial;color:#262626;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment--> </div></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-16890395413638880402010-05-27T14:45:00.006-04:002010-05-28T06:26:39.791-04:00Beyond Brown<div>Recently, in one of my "Beginning Watercolor" sessions, one of my students asked "How do you make brown?" Without thinking a response, I replied..."I never try to make brown". Which isn't exactly true, once I put some thought into it. When painting a subject that will include "browns," I'm not really thinking "brown", but rather, "warm" neutrals (as opposed to grey, "cool" neutrals). </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn71w0wnJCC4HHvYICOw7dok_EpJdzk27VgZF0Lny989eO7OJc0HjxYcvg34T7v8GoWPYYenZiak2BEISMlHwr9YdDlbUOfj7i0mrrRsOGA4Hk3HWKT05uKPdIs_G-svYSyxHCo-tT3XIl/s1600/P1050302.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn71w0wnJCC4HHvYICOw7dok_EpJdzk27VgZF0Lny989eO7OJc0HjxYcvg34T7v8GoWPYYenZiak2BEISMlHwr9YdDlbUOfj7i0mrrRsOGA4Hk3HWKT05uKPdIs_G-svYSyxHCo-tT3XIl/s400/P1050302.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476023820727863410" /></a>My "browns" are usually mixed using the other colors from my primary palette, providing a color harmony and unity in a painting, but yet enough variety to maintain visual interest. Notice in the two paintings [in progress] how the warm and cool neutrals play a supporting role to the star colors in the birds. Though I have not intentionally painted any of my birds brown, the viewer will see "brown".<div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_yU8qFeTZ5GKR8YSHKLs5WDywQzXj6whYRv6htsmrVs9oygMroAzvTS6D_iUgH_4Ym3evaeV9cmt9PrbxI-o73Ek60Gf0c_MYx4q1-9rgd5JW0vmlr3KNTdpCBVCsSw6E1wqEjSqH8dN/s1600/P1050301.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 292px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_yU8qFeTZ5GKR8YSHKLs5WDywQzXj6whYRv6htsmrVs9oygMroAzvTS6D_iUgH_4Ym3evaeV9cmt9PrbxI-o73Ek60Gf0c_MYx4q1-9rgd5JW0vmlr3KNTdpCBVCsSw6E1wqEjSqH8dN/s400/P1050301.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476023572666278194" /></a>So, finally, the simple answer to the question...How do you make brown?</div><div><br /></div><div>1. Mix 3 primaries.</div><div><br /></div><div>2. Mix warm compliments.</div><div><br /></div><div>3. Add a manufactured neutral to another color with higher chroma. I usually use Burnt Sienna or Brown Madder. Just a little, neutralizes most colors. </div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-76484898390126375182010-05-20T14:31:00.010-04:002010-05-21T07:05:06.264-04:00Healing Power of Art<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Over the next few months my artwork will be included in an online exhibit <a href="http://www.manhattanarts.com/Gallery/HealingPowerofArt_2010/index.htm">The Healing Power of Art</a>, a juried competition hosted by Manhattan Arts International. The premise for the exhibit..."when artists create healing art [art that uplifts the spirit] they not only experience a healing process within themselves, their Art also has a healing impact on viewers." As a nurse and artist, art and healing are both topics very close to my heart. I live them every day. I am honored to be a part of a movement that brings awareness to the relationships between creative expression, health and wellness. You can follow the link to see <a href="http://www.manhattanarts.com/Gallery/HealingPowerofArt_2010/Freeman.htm">my page and statement.</a> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 7px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 7px; color: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 19px; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="style71" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px;font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;">Manhattan Arts International</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:130%;color:#6600CC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 15px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px;font-size:16px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px;font-size:13px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-weight: bold; line-height: 15px; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><img src="http://www.manhattanarts.com/Gallery/HealingPowerofArt_2010/images/alteredpercep_200_116.jpg" alt="Healing Power of Art" width="200" height="116" /></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 15px; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></span></div><span class="titleAuthor" style=" padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Positive Art That Uplifts The Spirit</span></div></span><b><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: 900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><span class="titleAuthor style75" style=" padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-size:12pt;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: 900; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> May 14 - September 19, 2010</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-weight: normal; line-height: 19px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 7px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 7px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">d</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-weight: normal; line-height: 19px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 7px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 7px; font-size:13px;">eserve.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#FFFFFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; line-height: 19px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 7px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 7px;font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div></span></b></span></span></span></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4625651714989296732.post-59536409490302686462010-05-10T21:06:00.006-04:002010-05-12T07:09:13.098-04:00Virginia Watercolor Society & Salon De Refuse<div>I entered this year's <a href="http://www.virginiawatercolorsociety.org/">Virginia Watercolor Society</a> (VWS) Annual Competition with one goal in mind...to get rejected...let me explain...</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I love watercolor...painting with it, watching others paint, reading about it, viewing other's work, talking about it, etc. So I paint, teach, read the books, the magazines, attend shows, everything short of dreaming about watercolor. Though viewing other's work in watercolor and seeing what other artists are doing with the media is important for creative exploration and growth, I have been reluctant to join a regional or national society. My disillusionment came when I discovered the groups exclude watercolor done on any other surface other than paper (i.e. watercolor on canvas, yupo, and MY favorite surface, claybord), but yet will accept acrylic painted on paper as a watercolor medium...dashing my hopes of ever earning "<i>signature</i>" status. After all, they call themselves "Watercolor" societies not "Works on Paper" societies (doesn't quite roll off the tongue). </div><div>I digressed... </div><div><br /></div><div>This year for those applicants who are rejected (ouch...that word comes with such feelings of despair and discouragement) into the "VWS" exhibit, there is the option to exhibit with other rogue works in the "<i>Salon de Refuse.</i>" My hope...the works rejected from the juried show will feature contemporary (and hopefully exciting) paintings in watercolor and other various surfaces...and viewers will have the opportunity to see watercolor presented in new ways. It's a gamble... </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2EBLA83kQNBUG2tJQ1ImZDiUDZFUCf0ClPM9AUB_N1tX66BrxEn8YxJkSh4qIMTRCqdUcqiy6gEHGsmQbM23t2qYt6GhQonu3GPiaWXaPDCN1nPS7QDyZRTdzIQEQ8FPKfhUjSc1NEeq/s1600/Secret+Places.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2EBLA83kQNBUG2tJQ1ImZDiUDZFUCf0ClPM9AUB_N1tX66BrxEn8YxJkSh4qIMTRCqdUcqiy6gEHGsmQbM23t2qYt6GhQonu3GPiaWXaPDCN1nPS7QDyZRTdzIQEQ8FPKfhUjSc1NEeq/s400/Secret+Places.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469813042319555378" /></a>...but I am proudly exhibiting <div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Secret Places </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Watercolor on 22x30 Aquabord</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Virginia Watercolor Society's "<i>Salon de Refuse</i>"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.crossroadsartcenter.com">Crossroads Art Center</a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Richmond, Virginia</div><div style="text-align: center;">May 14th-July 6th</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>ariel freemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07639601159961131628noreply@blogger.com7