Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Art Workshop Recap Kevin MacPherson

Last week was spent at Kevin MacPherson's workshop at his home in Taos, New Mexico. It was a successful experience on many levels. First, Kevin and Wanda are warm hosts in their beautiful home. The inviting grounds are perfect for finding inspiring compositions. His large art studio made for an excellent environment for watching art demonstrations, critiques and conveying educational information. Their home is a mini-art museum so it was a privilege to linger over their art collection. Kevin is generous with his time and provides constructive feedback to push each student to the next level. The class spent time at Walt Gonske's garden as well and it was wonderful to be exposed to another excellent artist during this workshop. I came away feeling empowered and with additional insights about myself as an artist. Below are three of the plein air paintings completed during this workshop.
Walt's Garden
Walt's Garden, 14 x 11 plein air oil painting
Taos Hollyhocks
Taos Hollyhocks, 12 x 16, plein air oil painting
Taos Garden Gate

Monday, June 15, 2015

Why Do You Attend Art Workshops?

On June 22, Kevin MacPherson starts his 4-day workshop in Taos, New Mexico. I will have the privilege of being a student in his class. As I prepare, I thought of 5 reasons taking workshops from artists you respect is good for any artist.

  1. Life-learning is key to continual success and progress in one's chosen profession. 
  2. It's easy for an artist with a bit of a solitary existence to not push oneself. A scheduled workshop creates a space for you to be vulnerable, face fears, and take a risk.
  3.  Personal style is important for an artist, but if you paint the same way year after year, a workshop can be the catalyst for a breakthrough.
  4. Investing in yourself reconfirms your commitment to who you are as an artist. 
  5. Networking with an expert in your field as well as other students creates space for friendships and camaraderie that lasts long after the workshop ends.


What has been your experience attending workshops? What other benefits do you receive?
Tuscany Hillside Vineyard, 24 x 18
from my recent Italy trip

Saturday, March 14, 2015

Mentor Made My Day

I take time to like and comment on social media with other artists' paintings. I believe it is important to engage in this manner and it's good karma. This week I posted a new studio painting from Camden, Maine. My mentor, C.W. Mundy said this about my painting, " Hey man Killer piece! Looks like the old pros! The definition of this is "High Art"! Nice color and paint manipulation!" When someone I admire so deeply for their expertise makes a comment like this, it reaffirms I'm on the right track with my career and chosen profession.
Stormy Clouds Over Camden, 20 x 24 oil painting

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Christian Daniels Gallery in San Francisco


The Christian Daniels Gallery is an American contemporary realism gallery centrally located in the Nob Hill district of San Francisco. They focus on a select group of artists as they advance their careers through gallery representation and exhibition. I’m proud to now be represented by Christian Daniels Gallery.