This saga begins Thursday,June 27th, I took my new Samsung lap top which I use for my business in for repairs to a local office supply here in Welland. I was told by a young sales rep that the technology section was back logged and know one could look at the problem until after the long Canada Day weekend, Fine. I returned the following Tuesday, July 2nd in the morning with my laptop, printer , modem and my warrantee papers along with my bill of sale. I was told again that there was a back log and that they couldn't possibly get to my lap top with in the next 48hrs. Because I had bought it at the office supply and purchased an extended warrantee from them I decided to leave it with them rather than go to an independent -BIG MISTAKE- I heard nothing from the store, so I placed a call to see if they had discovered what the problem was and if it would be covered under warrantee. Nothing had been done. The computer tech had not even looked at the computer. Finally Saturday, July 7th late in the afternoon I received a call telling me that they had started running diagnostics but wouldn't know anything until Sunday morning. I called Sunday only to be told that my brand new lap top had a fried hard drive and they would have to send it out for repairs. It would take 5 - 10 business days to get it back. Nearing the end of the 10 business days I called the store to see what was happening with my computer only to be told it was still out for service - I asked where had they sent it for this repair and why was it taking so long. Apparently the "Maker" had to order in a hard drive for it and the lap top was in Sarnia, Ontario.
I received my lap top back finally from this store almost a month to the day I took it in for repairs. I will never use them again to purchase tech equipment or for repairs.
I NOW USE A VERY RELIABLE COMPURER COMPANY CALLED SKYCOMP,THEY ARE PROFESSIONAL AND I HAVE VERY REASONABLE RATES AND MY COMPUTER IS NEVER IN FOR REPAIRS LONGER THAN ONE WEEK!!!!
Tuesday 12 November 2013
Thursday 25 July 2013
HUDSON DOUGLAS WELCOME TO THIS WORLD
First born grandson to my brother Douglas & sister in law Michelle was born in Australia early this morning Australia time. My niece Julie and her husband Adam have a very handsome baby boy!
Congratulations!
Addison and her big sister Lily have their very own first cousin! Congratulations to Matthew and Frances you have a wonderful little nephew to dote on.
Awesome day!
Congratulations!
Addison and her big sister Lily have their very own first cousin! Congratulations to Matthew and Frances you have a wonderful little nephew to dote on.
Awesome day!
Monday 22 July 2013
HOT ! HOT ! HOT! STORMY WEATHER
Come "CHILL ON THE HILL"! Temperatures soared into the 100's with a humidex of 44 C. Setting up on Thursday was a challenge. Jim and I arrived early only to find the "artists village" had not been laid out. This was promptly taken care of by Todd and his daughter. I always go early to set up so that when the other artists come I can give them & their needs my full attention. Scotia Bank set out a wonderful hospitality suite for the artists with fresh brewed coffee, tea, water & soda's. Pizza and delicious cookies! Thank you Scotia Bank for your generosity to the artists of Art In The Park 2013!
This was the first time I've had an artist take ill because of the extreme heat. Even though all artists were encouraged to get into the hospitality room every 1/2 hour just to cool their core temperature down, all artists were encouraged to bring water and iced clothes to place on their necks. Jared left early Thursday due to illness but trooper that he is he came back Saturday after the temperature broke.
Friday was a challenge, temperatures soared again into the 40's. Maria a showing artist,son called her from Burlington warning her that severe weather was moving quickly into our area and it had struck Burlington without warning high winds, torrential rain lightening etc. The town staff had been keeping an eye on the weather as storms were possible in the late afternoon. I reported the phone conversation from Maria's son, to town officials, reminded them that it would take the artists some time to dismantle their displays. It was decided that it would be prudent to have the artists take down half their displays and then wait and see -----( we get a double lake effect with our weather from lake Ontario and Lake Erie, bad weather often passes us by) well by the time I got around to all the artists, it was evident that the storm was imminent. All artists moved quickly to get their work safely packed inside Town Hall, tents dropped and on their way home. On arriving home I checked the weather channel and we were under a tornado warning -- lasted until early morning.
Saturday, 1 tent totally demolished, structural damage in an other tent. One artist's house was struck with lightening and a large mature tree in front of her house was also hit by lightening and was knocked down. The show went on. One artist offered to share half her tent with the artist who lost her tent. Others helped with removing the broken & collapsed tent. Thank you Ruth Maier for showing kindness to someone in need. Unfortunately, it rained off and on all morning and did not finally clear until the afternoon.
Our artists were fantastic through out all of these trials. Congratulations on a great job! I'm very proud of how well you pulled it all together. See you next year. Let's make 2014 the best show yet!
Thank you People of Pelham for your wonderful support!
This was the first time I've had an artist take ill because of the extreme heat. Even though all artists were encouraged to get into the hospitality room every 1/2 hour just to cool their core temperature down, all artists were encouraged to bring water and iced clothes to place on their necks. Jared left early Thursday due to illness but trooper that he is he came back Saturday after the temperature broke.
Friday was a challenge, temperatures soared again into the 40's. Maria a showing artist,son called her from Burlington warning her that severe weather was moving quickly into our area and it had struck Burlington without warning high winds, torrential rain lightening etc. The town staff had been keeping an eye on the weather as storms were possible in the late afternoon. I reported the phone conversation from Maria's son, to town officials, reminded them that it would take the artists some time to dismantle their displays. It was decided that it would be prudent to have the artists take down half their displays and then wait and see -----( we get a double lake effect with our weather from lake Ontario and Lake Erie, bad weather often passes us by) well by the time I got around to all the artists, it was evident that the storm was imminent. All artists moved quickly to get their work safely packed inside Town Hall, tents dropped and on their way home. On arriving home I checked the weather channel and we were under a tornado warning -- lasted until early morning.
Saturday, 1 tent totally demolished, structural damage in an other tent. One artist's house was struck with lightening and a large mature tree in front of her house was also hit by lightening and was knocked down. The show went on. One artist offered to share half her tent with the artist who lost her tent. Others helped with removing the broken & collapsed tent. Thank you Ruth Maier for showing kindness to someone in need. Unfortunately, it rained off and on all morning and did not finally clear until the afternoon.
Our artists were fantastic through out all of these trials. Congratulations on a great job! I'm very proud of how well you pulled it all together. See you next year. Let's make 2014 the best show yet!
Thank you People of Pelham for your wonderful support!
Wednesday 17 July 2013
I'M READY TO CHILL ARE YOU?
The two cars are packed. Waited 'til after dinner for the sun to start going down. It's been in the 100's F here or + 40 C most of the day. I have discovered an new mechanism in my body - I call it the "sweat shower". Fifteen minutes to pack the cars and my own personal shower kicked in - YUK!!!
My friend Darlene called from Lockport to wish us all good luck and great sales. Hot! Hot! Hot! in he town of Lockport.
I'm looking forward to seeing the artist village go up tomorrow, "chilling with good friends" and partying into the hot summer night listening the music of Elton John and Billy Joel!
Hope to see you over the next 4 days.
My friend Darlene called from Lockport to wish us all good luck and great sales. Hot! Hot! Hot! in he town of Lockport.
I'm looking forward to seeing the artist village go up tomorrow, "chilling with good friends" and partying into the hot summer night listening the music of Elton John and Billy Joel!
Hope to see you over the next 4 days.
Tuesday 16 July 2013
GETTING READY TO "CHILL ON THE HILL"!
Artists are coordinating paintings, tents, lighting etc getting ready for the BIG CHILL ON THE HILL!
In the Haftar studio, I am planning the layout for my display, selecting paintings and trying to finish a new painting for the show. I have my guest room ready for a friend and fellow artist to stay for the duration of the show. I am shipping a painting to a client this morning.
I am excited to see the pristine white tents of the artist village come together on Thursday. I am looking forward to hearing feed back about this years show. We have wonderful new artists joining us. I am particularly interested in hearing the response to our emerging artist Lauren Ellis. Lauren is a young artist working in graphite. This is her first show and I know she will receive a warm welcome and lots of support from all the artists in the village.
Exciting things happen in the artist's village the atmosphere "vibrates" with excitement. Our clients stroll under the cool umbrella of beautiful mature trees, sip on a glass of wine or beer and have the opportunity to view and purchase original art work. They meet and talk with the artists who have produced these unique pieces. Each piece is like a finger print telling the story of a particular moment in the artist's life.
Thursday, opening night will rock the "village" a cover band playing Elton John and Billy Joel will have the whole "Hill Jumpin Up"! SEE YOU ON THE HILL - BRING THE FAMILY YOUNG & YOUNG AT HEART - COME AND CHILL WITH US!
In the Haftar studio, I am planning the layout for my display, selecting paintings and trying to finish a new painting for the show. I have my guest room ready for a friend and fellow artist to stay for the duration of the show. I am shipping a painting to a client this morning.
I am excited to see the pristine white tents of the artist village come together on Thursday. I am looking forward to hearing feed back about this years show. We have wonderful new artists joining us. I am particularly interested in hearing the response to our emerging artist Lauren Ellis. Lauren is a young artist working in graphite. This is her first show and I know she will receive a warm welcome and lots of support from all the artists in the village.
Exciting things happen in the artist's village the atmosphere "vibrates" with excitement. Our clients stroll under the cool umbrella of beautiful mature trees, sip on a glass of wine or beer and have the opportunity to view and purchase original art work. They meet and talk with the artists who have produced these unique pieces. Each piece is like a finger print telling the story of a particular moment in the artist's life.
Thursday, opening night will rock the "village" a cover band playing Elton John and Billy Joel will have the whole "Hill Jumpin Up"! SEE YOU ON THE HILL - BRING THE FAMILY YOUNG & YOUNG AT HEART - COME AND CHILL WITH US!
Sunday 14 July 2013
Life and Times of an Artist's Easel: SUMMERFEST - ARTIST VILLAGE OPENS THURSDAY JULY ...
Life and Times of an Artist's Easel: SUMMERFEST - ARTIST VILLAGE OPENS THURSDAY JULY ...: Sooo excited, it's finally here!!! This Thursday the artists will come from far and near to participate in THE 2ND ANNUAL - ART IN THE ...
SUMMERFEST - ARTIST VILLAGE OPENS THURSDAY JULY 18TH - SUNDAY 21ST
Sooo excited, it's finally here!!! This Thursday the artists will come from far and near to participate in THE 2ND ANNUAL - ART IN THE PARK - an important all original juried fine art show.
Twenty -two artist will comprise the "artists village". The artists will build the village Thursday in Peace Park Fonthill and will be open for business from 4pm - 10pm. You can come sip on a delicious glass of local wine and beer and take in the spectacular art.
We welcome Lauren Ellis an emerging artist. Lauren works in graphite. Please stop in and chat with her about her pieces. We also are pleased to present 6 other new artists to ART IN THE PARK, raku potter Franz Rood, abstract acrylic & slumped glass artist Ruth Maier, decorative abstract artist Joanne Currah, fret work artist William Eisbrenner, guache artist Carole Rose and acrylic on stone artist Esa Nieminen. Last but not least, 15 returning artists including James Kerr , Pat Paquin, Mary Powley, Mary Ann Huisman, Maria Cozzi,Robbin Pulver Andrews, Birgie Ludlow, Fred and Angela Sirrs, Christel Wille, Marvyn Rivett,Monique Mulder Wallace, Jared Robinson, George Doros, Jody Edwards, & Pat Haftar. we work in glass, wood, pottery, oil, acrylic, watercolour, working on canvas, paper, ceramic and stone etc.
The professional artists showing in the artists village would like to say "Break a leg!" to all the musicians, singers, dancers and actors who will be preforming at the "PELHAM NIGHT OF ARTS"on Friday July 19th on the stage in the artists village!
ART IN THE PARK - artists village is in Peace Park , Fonthill - take the QEW to the 406, 406 to highway 20 go west on highway 20 to Station Street go left on station and make a right at first street Town Square go through the first set of lights first drive way on the right leads straight into Peace Park.
Twenty -two artist will comprise the "artists village". The artists will build the village Thursday in Peace Park Fonthill and will be open for business from 4pm - 10pm. You can come sip on a delicious glass of local wine and beer and take in the spectacular art.
We welcome Lauren Ellis an emerging artist. Lauren works in graphite. Please stop in and chat with her about her pieces. We also are pleased to present 6 other new artists to ART IN THE PARK, raku potter Franz Rood, abstract acrylic & slumped glass artist Ruth Maier, decorative abstract artist Joanne Currah, fret work artist William Eisbrenner, guache artist Carole Rose and acrylic on stone artist Esa Nieminen. Last but not least, 15 returning artists including James Kerr , Pat Paquin, Mary Powley, Mary Ann Huisman, Maria Cozzi,Robbin Pulver Andrews, Birgie Ludlow, Fred and Angela Sirrs, Christel Wille, Marvyn Rivett,Monique Mulder Wallace, Jared Robinson, George Doros, Jody Edwards, & Pat Haftar. we work in glass, wood, pottery, oil, acrylic, watercolour, working on canvas, paper, ceramic and stone etc.
The professional artists showing in the artists village would like to say "Break a leg!" to all the musicians, singers, dancers and actors who will be preforming at the "PELHAM NIGHT OF ARTS"on Friday July 19th on the stage in the artists village!
ART IN THE PARK - artists village is in Peace Park , Fonthill - take the QEW to the 406, 406 to highway 20 go west on highway 20 to Station Street go left on station and make a right at first street Town Square go through the first set of lights first drive way on the right leads straight into Peace Park.
Tuesday 11 June 2013
HELLO AGAIN - ZESTS - HEIRLOOM SHOW - ETC
Hi there, life has become a little frantic here at the Haftar studio with the arrival of my son, daughter in law & grandpuppy last week. We know have 3 cats, 1 dog, and 4 humans co habiting in our house for the next couple of weeks. My son's family are heading to their new home in Mexico, all very exciting. We will miss them very much. Although, my son has a room set aside in his new home for me to use as my Mexican studio. I'll have to make a trip south to set up my studio and learn Spanish so I can purchase supplies for the studio. I'll also have to research some local Mexican art shows.
The gardens at the studio are beautiful this year with an over abundance of lilacs this spring, poppies ,iris, lilies and now the peonies are top heavy with large lush blooms. I think adding triple mix and lamb manure certainly sparked gorgeous blossoms. Photographing over the last few days has spawned some lovely reference material.
The month of June I am set up at Zests restaurant which is a local high end eatery. The owners decided that original art work would add to the ambience of the restaurant. It's great that local businesses are integrating fine art into their establishments. A win win for both parties.
I have also been working on the Heirloom Artisan show that commences this week on Friday and runs for two days. The artists and artisans participating in this show all have stores on "ETSY" an on line shopping network. The show is on the grounds of a beautiful local nursery.
I have meetings tonight and tomorrow for two other Art Shows both which I manage for the town of Pelham/Fonthill here in the Niagara peninsula. We are hoping to add an Art Show to "Winterfest" this year. Tomorrow we have to work on the logistics of how, when, where and dates for this show. It's invigorating to take on a new challenge, a chance for artists to show and sell their work .In the Niagara area, we have many, many gifted artists.
The gardens at the studio are beautiful this year with an over abundance of lilacs this spring, poppies ,iris, lilies and now the peonies are top heavy with large lush blooms. I think adding triple mix and lamb manure certainly sparked gorgeous blossoms. Photographing over the last few days has spawned some lovely reference material.
The month of June I am set up at Zests restaurant which is a local high end eatery. The owners decided that original art work would add to the ambience of the restaurant. It's great that local businesses are integrating fine art into their establishments. A win win for both parties.
I have also been working on the Heirloom Artisan show that commences this week on Friday and runs for two days. The artists and artisans participating in this show all have stores on "ETSY" an on line shopping network. The show is on the grounds of a beautiful local nursery.
I have meetings tonight and tomorrow for two other Art Shows both which I manage for the town of Pelham/Fonthill here in the Niagara peninsula. We are hoping to add an Art Show to "Winterfest" this year. Tomorrow we have to work on the logistics of how, when, where and dates for this show. It's invigorating to take on a new challenge, a chance for artists to show and sell their work .In the Niagara area, we have many, many gifted artists.
Thursday 16 May 2013
ADVERTISING FOR THE PELHAM ART ASSOCIATION
This morning has been spent washing floors,final loads of laundry, gardening and advertising for the Pelham Art Association. I am the vice president of the club and part of my responsibility is to advertise in our local papers up coming workshops,shows and events.I also have personal contact with two reporters that have been wonderful to work with over the years.This weekend we have a 4 day workshop with noted American fine artist Jane E Jones. She is a seven signature American artist, a business woman and fabulous,knowledgeable instructor. Check her out she is online. I have two reporters going to cover the workshop over the next couple of days. YEAH!! Can't wait to see what they write and photograph.
I also advertised for our last workshop of the year which is with John Anderson. He will do two different workshops one in Acrylic the second in Oils. I really wanted to take this workshop but, I will be showing at the Heirloom show that weekend with my fellow "Etsy" shop owners. Really looking forward to this show, we are at Vermeer's a well known gardening centre, here in the City of Welland.
Allergies are driving me crazy today and have been for the past month.Yuk!!
I also advertised for our last workshop of the year which is with John Anderson. He will do two different workshops one in Acrylic the second in Oils. I really wanted to take this workshop but, I will be showing at the Heirloom show that weekend with my fellow "Etsy" shop owners. Really looking forward to this show, we are at Vermeer's a well known gardening centre, here in the City of Welland.
Allergies are driving me crazy today and have been for the past month.Yuk!!
Wednesday 15 May 2013
3,000 READERS - WOW - THANK YOU ALL
Thank you. As, I've said before I am impressed with this medium that allows me to share a little of my life as a Canadian Artist with people from around the world.
I am currently working on a painting of a beautiful beech tree. I will start posting tomorrow images that show the progress of the painting, from underpainting to the finished product.
I am currently working on a painting of a beautiful beech tree. I will start posting tomorrow images that show the progress of the painting, from underpainting to the finished product.
Tuesday 14 May 2013
AMAZON.COM
Prior to the Pelham Art Festival, I decided to purchase a 30" high directors chair. This chair allows you to sit and be at eye level with your customers. I did what most of us do and researched the chairs online. I found many sellers, including one company that I had done business with previously, Amazon. I am sure many of you have bought from Amazon as well. I was so close to the show, I opted to pay extra to have the chair arrive in time for me to use at the festival. It arrived promptly. When I went to unpack it, I noticed that the large box was opened all along one side. I took the chair frame out of the box and after carefully searching the box I realized that the canvas back and seat were missing. Long story slightly shortened, I noticed on a label it had the order ID, how to make a return and an area that said "Have feed back on how we package? Tell us at www.amazon.com/packaging I thought fair enough, I will go to this website and let Amazon know what has happened. I expected a reply within 24 hrs. - no reply - I waited. Finally, today I went on line to Amazon several times and got quick results. They were very apologetic and have credited my account and will be sending me a replacement chair with the proper canvas. It is refreshing and heart warming to know that there are companies out there that truly value their clients.
I am very pleased to say that AMAZON is an honourable company and I will promote them to friends and family and I will continue to be a customer. A valued one!
I am very pleased to say that AMAZON is an honourable company and I will promote them to friends and family and I will continue to be a customer. A valued one!
APRES SHOW
Well I am truly over the excitement of the show. Tired and catching up on household chores today. A lot of hard work lugging and hauling work from point "A" to point "B" and back to point "A" again. I was delighted to see my friends and fellow artists, breathing in all the creative vibes from the new work that I saw. We are so fortunate to have been blessed with this wonderful way to express ourselves.
The live music at the festival was wonderful, especially at the Gala on Friday evening. The students from the culinary school at Confederation are to be commended for the delicious treats they provided and served. Thank you. Thanks to the community volunteers that came out to help. Floaters, you were most appreciated as you looked after our booths so we could take a break, get some lunch and use the washrooms.
The artists are all asked to fill out comment sheets and I did mine. This year I was not impressed that the committee rather than approaching an artist/s to donate a substantial piece of original work for the raffle, they opted for "prints". This is an original fine art show. The benefit to the artist who donates a substantial piece is that they are included in all the print advertising, plus they are given a double booth and are designated the "Featured Artist". These perks were given out by the committee , who unfortunately lowered the standards. I sincerely hope this does not take place next year as the money generated by the raffle will dwindle substantially. Money generated by the festival mainly supports the local Pelham libraries. Over $350,000.00 has been donated over the past 26years.
See you all at the 28th Annual Pelham art Festival in 2014.
The live music at the festival was wonderful, especially at the Gala on Friday evening. The students from the culinary school at Confederation are to be commended for the delicious treats they provided and served. Thank you. Thanks to the community volunteers that came out to help. Floaters, you were most appreciated as you looked after our booths so we could take a break, get some lunch and use the washrooms.
The artists are all asked to fill out comment sheets and I did mine. This year I was not impressed that the committee rather than approaching an artist/s to donate a substantial piece of original work for the raffle, they opted for "prints". This is an original fine art show. The benefit to the artist who donates a substantial piece is that they are included in all the print advertising, plus they are given a double booth and are designated the "Featured Artist". These perks were given out by the committee , who unfortunately lowered the standards. I sincerely hope this does not take place next year as the money generated by the raffle will dwindle substantially. Money generated by the festival mainly supports the local Pelham libraries. Over $350,000.00 has been donated over the past 26years.
See you all at the 28th Annual Pelham art Festival in 2014.
Wednesday 8 May 2013
LAST MINUTE RUNNING AROUND
Today, has been busy with last minute running around for the the Pelham Art Festival www.pelhamartfestival.com
Picked up my painting titled" Grandma's Vase" (24"x36" gallery wrap)from the Vision Centre in Fonthill where it had been on display promoting the festival for the last month. Various businesses in town help us promote the festival by having artist's work displayed in their shops. then I was off to pick up my painting identification cards. I like to get all of this work done prior to set up. It makes life so much less frantic on the first day of the show.
I also went through my wardrobe trying to decide what to wear for the Gala Opening. There is always a party atmosphere with local Niagara wine being featured and appetizers being served with fabulous live music, so much fun and everyone dresses up. Plus, very excited to see all the new work that my friends and fellow artists have created over the winter months. This will be last posting until after the show.
I also went through my wardrobe trying to decide what to wear for the Gala Opening. There is always a party atmosphere with local Niagara wine being featured and appetizers being served with fabulous live music, so much fun and everyone dresses up. Plus, very excited to see all the new work that my friends and fellow artists have created over the winter months. This will be last posting until after the show.
Tuesday 7 May 2013
HI NEIGHBOURS - SHOUT OUT TO MY FRIENDS IN THE USA
Hello neighbours. I hope when you woke up, you woke up to a morning with the sun shining warm ,bright and the birds singing. Fabulous news on the rescue of three very brave, courageous and determined young women. My thoughts and prayers are with them and their families as they reunite and go through the process of recovery.
Sunday 5 May 2013
ARTISTS THERAPY
I have spent the last two days working along side my husband in our gardens. We went to the gardening centre early yesterday morning and picked up a yard of triple mix and 5 bags of sheep manure. We cleaned, trimmed and weeded the front garden and as we were working we heard cheeping coming from one of our low spreading juniper bushes and soon had a frantic male robin fluttering all around and after a few minutes he flew off. We quickly topped that area of the garden with fresh soil and manure and moved to another section. I divided a large hosta placing some of it near a Mountbatten juniper and bridal wreath shrub. Then lifted the stone bird bath so we could level it and clean it out well before adding some fresh water. We were soon out of soil and manure. My husband made a second trip to the gardening centre and while he was gone I decided to lift a clump of white Iris that were too close to the house and split them. I watered in the transplants and I hope they will like their new placement in the garden. Both of us went in and had long showers. Clothes went directly to the wash.
This morning we were aching and paining, showing our age I guess. When we were twenty gardening seemed so much easier. Today, we planned on working in our upper back yard gardens. Cleaning , trimming and some transplanting. We used the triple mix that was left from the last trip to the garden centre yesterday to fill wholes from were we dug wild roses that had "run a muck" so to speak. Then we fertilized. Lastly, I went into the far back gardens near the creek. Soon, the siberian Iris will bloom along the edge of the creek. I looked for our Mallard Ducks that have been coming to nest and raise their young in the marshes in the creek but they must have taken the young ones to the canal already. The song birds were all around me though as I worked on cleaning out the grass garden true therapy for an artist. After working all day in the garden, I am pleasantly tired and looking forward to a hot shower and a simple dinner of farm fresh eggs, smoked sausage and vegetables and a lovely cup of green tea.
This morning we were aching and paining, showing our age I guess. When we were twenty gardening seemed so much easier. Today, we planned on working in our upper back yard gardens. Cleaning , trimming and some transplanting. We used the triple mix that was left from the last trip to the garden centre yesterday to fill wholes from were we dug wild roses that had "run a muck" so to speak. Then we fertilized. Lastly, I went into the far back gardens near the creek. Soon, the siberian Iris will bloom along the edge of the creek. I looked for our Mallard Ducks that have been coming to nest and raise their young in the marshes in the creek but they must have taken the young ones to the canal already. The song birds were all around me though as I worked on cleaning out the grass garden true therapy for an artist. After working all day in the garden, I am pleasantly tired and looking forward to a hot shower and a simple dinner of farm fresh eggs, smoked sausage and vegetables and a lovely cup of green tea.
Friday 3 May 2013
THE SAGA OF A SEARCH FOR A TALL DIRECTORS CHAIR
About a month ago my mentor asked me if I had a directors chair a tall one. I replied no. I just use a regular inexpensive folding canvas chair. "Why?" I asked. Well a directors chair ( a high one) allows you to be at eye level with the public at the shows. Makes it easier to connect and have a dialogue. I thought about this for awhile and eventually decide to go online and do some research on this kind of chair. You know, the regular stuff - how much money - Canadian or American -what size - folding or not - different styles - etc I did an excellent job if I do say so myself, lol, they ranged in price from $40 US - $ 200 + and come in a variety of styles. colour of wood and the canvas seat and back come in a variety of hues as well. But, I procrastinated until today. Today, one week out from the show I decided to purchase one. I could use it at all my shows indoor and out. I went back on line this morning and tried to find one in the area in which I live. I tried small local stores, big box stores like Home Depot, Walmart,Sears nothing. Then I tried local furniture stores and gardening shops all to no avail. at this point my husband was even offering suggestions and looking up businesses in the yellow pages for me to check out on line - nothing!! I was exasperated with the search. So I had lunch, then decided to go rake my back gardens and get a little fresh air and exercise.
I came back in, cleaned up and started my search again at this point I tried a couple of American sites to see what the delivery time would be one was end May the other mid to end June. Finally, I stumbled on to Amazon, not only did they have the chairs but if I paid a premium for shipping the item would arrive at my doorstep in time for next weekends show. YEAH!!! Success at last. I placed the order and felt well pleased with the efforts of the day. Until ------ my husband came in from work whistling as he came through the front door and calling out to me that he'd found the chairs at Pier One a store in a nearby city and if I wanted to we could go right now and pick one up. He was so excited that he'd found me a chair I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd finally ordered one on line. So, off we went licketty split ,got to the store and there they were beautifully set up bright happy colourful canvases, four different woods a plethora of choices. I finally confessed that I had ordered one from the US. My husband reminded me about how close the show was and if the parcel got stopped at the border I would not have a chair for the show. I conceded the point and thought I could always sell one to a fellow artist. I purchased a high director chair frame and two sets of canvases for it one is a vibrant blue the other bright lime green from Pier One. We quickly packed it up in our van and headed home.
Once home, we set the chair up, attached the canvas ( lovely blue) and my husband insisted that I try it out. Well being of a diminutive stature, I gave a little hop up and managed to get a cheek on the seat and hefted myself into the seat - feet dangling like a little child - then I searched around with my one foot and found the ledge where I could comfortably place my feet. Terrific! Love it! I was also able to look directly at my husbands eyes without having to crane my neck to look up at him, This will work out very well indeed!!
After dinner, I checked my emails and low and behold there was the notification from Amazon that my chair had been already shipped. They claim it will arrive this Tuesday. I better start emailing my friends to see if they need a chair. lol!!!! The chair coming from the US costs including shipping & import duties exactly $1.06 more than what I purchased here in Canada. Wow what a merry go round!
I came back in, cleaned up and started my search again at this point I tried a couple of American sites to see what the delivery time would be one was end May the other mid to end June. Finally, I stumbled on to Amazon, not only did they have the chairs but if I paid a premium for shipping the item would arrive at my doorstep in time for next weekends show. YEAH!!! Success at last. I placed the order and felt well pleased with the efforts of the day. Until ------ my husband came in from work whistling as he came through the front door and calling out to me that he'd found the chairs at Pier One a store in a nearby city and if I wanted to we could go right now and pick one up. He was so excited that he'd found me a chair I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd finally ordered one on line. So, off we went licketty split ,got to the store and there they were beautifully set up bright happy colourful canvases, four different woods a plethora of choices. I finally confessed that I had ordered one from the US. My husband reminded me about how close the show was and if the parcel got stopped at the border I would not have a chair for the show. I conceded the point and thought I could always sell one to a fellow artist. I purchased a high director chair frame and two sets of canvases for it one is a vibrant blue the other bright lime green from Pier One. We quickly packed it up in our van and headed home.
Once home, we set the chair up, attached the canvas ( lovely blue) and my husband insisted that I try it out. Well being of a diminutive stature, I gave a little hop up and managed to get a cheek on the seat and hefted myself into the seat - feet dangling like a little child - then I searched around with my one foot and found the ledge where I could comfortably place my feet. Terrific! Love it! I was also able to look directly at my husbands eyes without having to crane my neck to look up at him, This will work out very well indeed!!
After dinner, I checked my emails and low and behold there was the notification from Amazon that my chair had been already shipped. They claim it will arrive this Tuesday. I better start emailing my friends to see if they need a chair. lol!!!! The chair coming from the US costs including shipping & import duties exactly $1.06 more than what I purchased here in Canada. Wow what a merry go round!
SHOUT OUT TO GERMANY AND RUSSIA
Good afternoon Germany and perhaps good evening depending where you are reaching me from in Russia. It is a little after 9:15 am in the beautiful Niagara Peninsula. It is a warm spring morning, awoke to song birds singing lovely melodious sounds
A week today is set up and the Gala opening in the evening for the Pelham Art Festival which is the largest juried fine art show in south western Ontario. I am slowly but surely pulling everything together paintings are ready, show boxes checked and filled need to check lighting today, make sure I have all cords and lights are working, need to pull out my trolley and attach bungee cords as everything has to be carried in from the parking lot and my trolley cart makes it easier carry in paintings, boxes etc. I also need to get my carpet down from the loft in the garage and give it a good cleaning with the vacuum. It makes walking on the concrete of the arena all day long easier on the feet. I must also go through my ward robe and decide what I want to wear for the opening - need to find something a little glitzy and fun - maybe some funky jewelry too.
A week today is set up and the Gala opening in the evening for the Pelham Art Festival which is the largest juried fine art show in south western Ontario. I am slowly but surely pulling everything together paintings are ready, show boxes checked and filled need to check lighting today, make sure I have all cords and lights are working, need to pull out my trolley and attach bungee cords as everything has to be carried in from the parking lot and my trolley cart makes it easier carry in paintings, boxes etc. I also need to get my carpet down from the loft in the garage and give it a good cleaning with the vacuum. It makes walking on the concrete of the arena all day long easier on the feet. I must also go through my ward robe and decide what I want to wear for the opening - need to find something a little glitzy and fun - maybe some funky jewelry too.
Thursday 2 May 2013
HELLO WORLD! WELCOME TO MY BLOG
I am not really sure what good blog etiquette is so I hope my verve and genuine amazement is okay with everyone. I was not born in the age of covered wagons and hoop skirts but, I also was not conceived in the era of technology, so for me I am like a little child on Christmas day with eyes wide at the prospects of presents and a great feast with all the trimmings when I look at my Blog stats and see that people from almost every continent have connected with me and my work. It touches my heart and I want to thank you all. if you have been following my Blog ,you will see I gave a shout out to the folks from India who have been on my Blog this morning. I am going to try and do that with each of you so that you will know we are connecting and I'd like to here from you when you have the time through the comment section on my Blog. Thank you all!
GOOD MORNING INDIA
HULLO INDIA!! Welcome to my blog. I hope you enjoy what you read. If you have any questions please ask.
Wednesday 1 May 2013
WORKING, WORKING, SORTING, WORKING, CHECKING
I don't know how many of my fellow artists go through this each year at the beginning of the selling season. But, each year once the paintings are completed and framed, I start working like the most diligent little beaver. My first show is just over a week away and it is one of the largest shows I do. I want to be prepared. I need to know that everything is planned out and all of the tools and things I might require for the show are in their proper boxes or for the last couple of years in their bags. I hate the bags stuff falls to the bottom, one is for ever rummaging around never knowing what's going to grab you. I love shallow boxes with flip lid closures, things are easier to see and quicker to find. I am going to purchase two or three new boxes and laminate lists of what's in each and tape it to each box.
I began today by working on my show book. In this book, I keep show checklists one for indoor one for out door shows, list of paintings going to the show with their price and dimensions( nothing like being at a show and having an odd size canvas that you don't usually work with and a prospective client asks you the size and you stand their and in your mind you are saying to yourself "doh"). I also include a layout of my show set up for the current show, tally sheets for smaller sales. When I first started out I included a show assessment sheet so I could evaluate the show and make critical decisions about how it was run and if it was worth participating in the next year. I found this invaluable as I was doing every show and different genre as I could the first couple of years. I include my Artists CV and Artists Statement. I spent some time today updating my book.
In order to update my book, I had to layout the Pelham show and do a sketch, this is a time saver for me on set up day. I know where everything is going and I can make slight adjustments quickly. I even indicate symbolically where my lights will be placed. This tells me quickly, how many I will need and I always take a couple of extra just incase. I start by plotting out the length and width of the hanging boards on the floor with tape, then placing the paintings inside arranging and adjusting until I get what I think is a pleasing layout. I repeat this until I have laid out my whole booth. I sketch quickly as I go. These sheets are then placed in my show book for quick reference.
This afternoon, I decided enough with the hated show bags I dumped them out on the counter. What a mess! I spent time sorting and listing. I think I'll need to purchase at least two boxes. I need to measure the space in the van where they will go to be sure they will fit. They have to fit when I'm carrying the tent, sides, easels and paintings - perhaps what I really need is a tow along trailer
for my gear and the paintings can go in the van.lol
I began today by working on my show book. In this book, I keep show checklists one for indoor one for out door shows, list of paintings going to the show with their price and dimensions( nothing like being at a show and having an odd size canvas that you don't usually work with and a prospective client asks you the size and you stand their and in your mind you are saying to yourself "doh"). I also include a layout of my show set up for the current show, tally sheets for smaller sales. When I first started out I included a show assessment sheet so I could evaluate the show and make critical decisions about how it was run and if it was worth participating in the next year. I found this invaluable as I was doing every show and different genre as I could the first couple of years. I include my Artists CV and Artists Statement. I spent some time today updating my book.
In order to update my book, I had to layout the Pelham show and do a sketch, this is a time saver for me on set up day. I know where everything is going and I can make slight adjustments quickly. I even indicate symbolically where my lights will be placed. This tells me quickly, how many I will need and I always take a couple of extra just incase. I start by plotting out the length and width of the hanging boards on the floor with tape, then placing the paintings inside arranging and adjusting until I get what I think is a pleasing layout. I repeat this until I have laid out my whole booth. I sketch quickly as I go. These sheets are then placed in my show book for quick reference.
This afternoon, I decided enough with the hated show bags I dumped them out on the counter. What a mess! I spent time sorting and listing. I think I'll need to purchase at least two boxes. I need to measure the space in the van where they will go to be sure they will fit. They have to fit when I'm carrying the tent, sides, easels and paintings - perhaps what I really need is a tow along trailer
for my gear and the paintings can go in the van.lol
Tuesday 30 April 2013
FLYERS, FRAMING AND PELHAM NIGHT OF THE ARTS
Busy day, did the mundane cleaning of the house this morning. It was great to open the doors and windows and let the fresh air in 23 degrees C. today. YEAH!!!
This afternoon, I was on the road over to my framers to pick up "Angel"(oh my goodness she looks fabulous!) and so do "Strip Mining " and "Vessels". All paintings are now ready for the Pelham Art Festival. I just have to haul out my lights, test them, check my show bin and make sure I have all my hooks, labels, taki, credit card machine etc.
I also picked up my friend Margories painting as it was ready too. Drove to Marg's but she wan't in. I emailed her when I got home to let her know I had it. Unpacked the van, grabbed a snack (have to watch my sugar levels) and a drink. Picked up paper work for tonights meeting, cheque for Art In The Park and some information on bank sponsorship, put some pecans in a zippy bag and off to the meeting.
Arrived a little early for meeting, dropped cheque and banking info with Sally. Sally had the 5,000 flyers for the ART IN THE PARK - terrific - I can get them out to the artists ASAP so they can hand them out at their shows. I'll put them through the library system as well. I must email Sally or Monique and see if I can get an e copy for the artists , I can put one up on my website and they can email them out to their clients. Monique did a nice job on the flyers - very summery looking.
Our meeting was short tonight as Monique had to pick up her kids at school as they were returning from a trip to Florida with the school band. (bet they had lots of fun) Todd was at the meeting tonight and proposed that instead of the Muskoka chairs that we were going to auction off , he suggested a pallet wall structure with benches that would be erected in Peace Park (functional art) people would pay a twoonie ($2) per slat then paint it, put a design on it, their name, saying/ phrases etc. Then the slats would be attached to the wooden wall. Todd said that there was enough room for 2,000 boards generating hopefully $4,000 and we could get some grant money for public art to help with costs. BRILLIANT!! We are going to approach local schools to have children display their art and each participating child would get a certificate and perhaps a voucher. Problem is that we don't really have a large area to display the art so we thought of having Dave ,our grade 8 co chair, film the submissions and then show the film at the Pelham Night of The Arts. Meeting ended and we'll all meet again after the Pelham Art Festival as Monique and I are participating artists and another member of our planning team is volunteering at the Art Festival and is involved with set up.
This afternoon, I was on the road over to my framers to pick up "Angel"(oh my goodness she looks fabulous!) and so do "Strip Mining " and "Vessels". All paintings are now ready for the Pelham Art Festival. I just have to haul out my lights, test them, check my show bin and make sure I have all my hooks, labels, taki, credit card machine etc.
I also picked up my friend Margories painting as it was ready too. Drove to Marg's but she wan't in. I emailed her when I got home to let her know I had it. Unpacked the van, grabbed a snack (have to watch my sugar levels) and a drink. Picked up paper work for tonights meeting, cheque for Art In The Park and some information on bank sponsorship, put some pecans in a zippy bag and off to the meeting.
Arrived a little early for meeting, dropped cheque and banking info with Sally. Sally had the 5,000 flyers for the ART IN THE PARK - terrific - I can get them out to the artists ASAP so they can hand them out at their shows. I'll put them through the library system as well. I must email Sally or Monique and see if I can get an e copy for the artists , I can put one up on my website and they can email them out to their clients. Monique did a nice job on the flyers - very summery looking.
Our meeting was short tonight as Monique had to pick up her kids at school as they were returning from a trip to Florida with the school band. (bet they had lots of fun) Todd was at the meeting tonight and proposed that instead of the Muskoka chairs that we were going to auction off , he suggested a pallet wall structure with benches that would be erected in Peace Park (functional art) people would pay a twoonie ($2) per slat then paint it, put a design on it, their name, saying/ phrases etc. Then the slats would be attached to the wooden wall. Todd said that there was enough room for 2,000 boards generating hopefully $4,000 and we could get some grant money for public art to help with costs. BRILLIANT!! We are going to approach local schools to have children display their art and each participating child would get a certificate and perhaps a voucher. Problem is that we don't really have a large area to display the art so we thought of having Dave ,our grade 8 co chair, film the submissions and then show the film at the Pelham Night of The Arts. Meeting ended and we'll all meet again after the Pelham Art Festival as Monique and I are participating artists and another member of our planning team is volunteering at the Art Festival and is involved with set up.
MY COUSIN PETER IS A WOOD TURNER
I have been face booking with my cousin Pete (Peter Coleman) discussing a wide variety of topics. Peter is one of 23 first cousins I have all on my mom's side of the family. Peter, his brothers David , Paul, Steven( who was a baby at the time), sister Heather and I spent many adventurous summers at our grandparents cottage in Muskoka with our grandmother (Bea Coleman).
Grandma was a self taught artist who worked in oils and depending on how much money she had painted on everything from the cardboard backing of note pads (which I found four and have framed them), canvas boards to the walls of the rectory( most notably above the fireplace in the dining room of the Anglican rectory in Deseronto , Ontario.) We have many very creative people in our family, from a cousin who was a ballerina in the National ballet, to novelists, wood turners, wood carvers, great cooks and fine artists like my grandmother and I.
Years ago, my family visited with Steven & Peter and their families. We all had a great dinner at Stevens and chatted about our families, in general catching everyone up on our lives. After dinner, Steven presented me with a beautiful wooden box he had made for an eagle feather ceremony that turned out to be a little small for the feather suggesting that I could use it as a jewelry box. I was thrilled at such a very generous gift and it sits on my dresser and I do use it for jewelry. I look at this little box everyday, it connects me to people I love in a very tangible way. On this same trip we went to Peter's home and I saw Peter's work shop and a display of burl bowls that he had made. His brother David imports exotic wood from around the world and he gave Peter some smaller pieces. Peter inlaid some of this wood into a few of his bowels. Peter told us that at that time he was selling his bowls in Toronto at a gallery on Queen Street and doing quite well. Much to my great surprise Peter offered me one of his bowls, not only did he do that but he allowed me to choose which one I wanted.
This bowl sits today on my coffee table, I dust it each week and oil it when I oil my tables. It is as beautiful today as when Peter gave it to me.
As I mentioned, Peter and I have been face booking each other and the other day Peter indicated he was heading out to BC for a trip and I commented how lucky he was. ( British Columbia is one of the most beautiful places in the world), Pete replied saying he wished he was lucky enough to be able to paint like grandma and I. I thought "WOW!". Then it came to me that I could do a painting for Peter to thank him for the joy his burl bowl has given me over the years. I immediately faced booked him and asked if he'd like a painting and if so what subject matter would he like ---- silly question - trees of course. I indicated to Peter it would probably take me a couple of months and if he could send me some pictures of trees he liked I'd get working. Pete sent the pictures so now I can start working on a composition. I am very excited to get started on this project.
Grandma was a self taught artist who worked in oils and depending on how much money she had painted on everything from the cardboard backing of note pads (which I found four and have framed them), canvas boards to the walls of the rectory( most notably above the fireplace in the dining room of the Anglican rectory in Deseronto , Ontario.) We have many very creative people in our family, from a cousin who was a ballerina in the National ballet, to novelists, wood turners, wood carvers, great cooks and fine artists like my grandmother and I.
Years ago, my family visited with Steven & Peter and their families. We all had a great dinner at Stevens and chatted about our families, in general catching everyone up on our lives. After dinner, Steven presented me with a beautiful wooden box he had made for an eagle feather ceremony that turned out to be a little small for the feather suggesting that I could use it as a jewelry box. I was thrilled at such a very generous gift and it sits on my dresser and I do use it for jewelry. I look at this little box everyday, it connects me to people I love in a very tangible way. On this same trip we went to Peter's home and I saw Peter's work shop and a display of burl bowls that he had made. His brother David imports exotic wood from around the world and he gave Peter some smaller pieces. Peter inlaid some of this wood into a few of his bowels. Peter told us that at that time he was selling his bowls in Toronto at a gallery on Queen Street and doing quite well. Much to my great surprise Peter offered me one of his bowls, not only did he do that but he allowed me to choose which one I wanted.
This bowl sits today on my coffee table, I dust it each week and oil it when I oil my tables. It is as beautiful today as when Peter gave it to me.
As I mentioned, Peter and I have been face booking each other and the other day Peter indicated he was heading out to BC for a trip and I commented how lucky he was. ( British Columbia is one of the most beautiful places in the world), Pete replied saying he wished he was lucky enough to be able to paint like grandma and I. I thought "WOW!". Then it came to me that I could do a painting for Peter to thank him for the joy his burl bowl has given me over the years. I immediately faced booked him and asked if he'd like a painting and if so what subject matter would he like ---- silly question - trees of course. I indicated to Peter it would probably take me a couple of months and if he could send me some pictures of trees he liked I'd get working. Pete sent the pictures so now I can start working on a composition. I am very excited to get started on this project.
Thursday 25 April 2013
AN INTERESTING DAY
Today started much like any other, woke up (always a good thing) had breakfast, went to Vermeer's Gardening centre to get my orchid repotted. After a brief discussion, I discovered that I had been water my plant wrong and the pot I had brought in to have the orchid transplanted was too big - solution pack in more orchids and cover with moss. Looks great! I wanted planters for a very narrow 10" wide hall table and the mantel over the fireplace. I was directed to some really pretty citrus coloured pots in a variety of different shapes and sizes, including some in the shape of a coffee cup with polka dots ( just had to get a lemon colour one with white polka dots for the kitchen table). I chose two small lime and one small orange pot and decided that succulents or some funky cactus would look great with a more modern decor. The mantel over the fireplace became somewhat problematic I couldn't make up my mind what size and shape of container to use - think I'll check out some antique places to see if I can find something a little unusual.
After Vermeer's I went to have an orthotic made. It was a fascinating procedure. I have never had a cast made of any part of me before. As Amedeus worked making the casts of my feet, I couldn't help but think that the casts after they have been used to make a mould might make for some interesting 3 D art work.
Back home for a quick dinner then off to an art class. The class worked on a humming bird. I did my own thing and continued working on my experiment with colour and worked on an old farm building.
I really like the colour combinations one gets when using compliments and how these colours play off each other in a painting.
After Vermeer's I went to have an orthotic made. It was a fascinating procedure. I have never had a cast made of any part of me before. As Amedeus worked making the casts of my feet, I couldn't help but think that the casts after they have been used to make a mould might make for some interesting 3 D art work.
Back home for a quick dinner then off to an art class. The class worked on a humming bird. I did my own thing and continued working on my experiment with colour and worked on an old farm building.
I really like the colour combinations one gets when using compliments and how these colours play off each other in a painting.
Wednesday 24 April 2013
SUPER EXCITED!
I am so impressed with how writing and posting images on my blog is reaching people. I posted earlier today the very first images of "Three Swans "and "Out Buildings". I have only posted these images on my blog and I have already been contacted by people interested in purchasing these paintings. Wow! Thank you! It gives great encouragement when one receives such positive feedback. I have been going around with a big smile on my face.
Erin Snow dropped in and picked up 2 giclee watercolour landscape prints on canvas 24 x 36 and giclee notecards for a gift bag/s for the Heirloom Show at Vermeers in Welland the second weekend in June. She was kind enough to pick up 100 postcards with a 10% coupon from my studio that will go into the 100 gift bags to be given out to the first 100 customers at the Heirloom show. This saved me a trip into Niagara Falls.
This is the first time I have tried using a coupon to help advertise my work, it will be interesting to see what business this generates.
* Giclee's (fr. term) are archival prints produced with archival inks achieving the closest image to the original in colour and value and printed on archival paper/canvas.
Erin Snow dropped in and picked up 2 giclee watercolour landscape prints on canvas 24 x 36 and giclee notecards for a gift bag/s for the Heirloom Show at Vermeers in Welland the second weekend in June. She was kind enough to pick up 100 postcards with a 10% coupon from my studio that will go into the 100 gift bags to be given out to the first 100 customers at the Heirloom show. This saved me a trip into Niagara Falls.
This is the first time I have tried using a coupon to help advertise my work, it will be interesting to see what business this generates.
* Giclee's (fr. term) are archival prints produced with archival inks achieving the closest image to the original in colour and value and printed on archival paper/canvas.
THREE SWANS DEBUTE AND OUT BUILDINGS
THREE SWANS (needs cropping)
OUT BUILDINGS
TA DA
A preview of two new paintings that are part of an on going experiment with colour. I hope they will be well received. I love how the colour spark off each other, so much fun. I think this is a more creative way to express what I am feeling and seeing in a landscape.
Sunday 21 April 2013
GOOD THINGS COME IN SMALL PACKAGES
I am not only getting ready for the Pelham Art Festival on Mother's Day Weekend but, the Heirloom Show which takes place the 2nd weekend in June at Vermeer's Gardening Centre. Erin Snow who is coordinating the Heirloom show has asked for donations. I am putting together bundles of note cards with giclee prints of some of my waterclour paintings. I am also going to donate a painting.
I have been working on my three swans. I think it is working up well. It now has several layers and I am pleased with the over all feel of the work. On completion I will photograph it and put it on my blog and then on my website. I like the large square format 24 x 24.
I started a small landscape painting last Monday of some old farm buildings near Napanee, Ontario. Originally, I thought of doing them realistically but then colour combinations started milling around in my head and they wouldn't go away. I worked on the painting for a very brief time last Monday as I had to go to Toronto in the afternoon to pick up my son at Pearson airport. So had basically just roughed in the subject, today I completed the painting changing up values and reworking the analogous palette I had chosen. You just have to love red violet pine trees! This little canvas was lots of fun to paint and the results are made all the better because of choosing a non realistic colour palette. The colours sing in this painting. I'll photograph the little painting along with the swans and put them on the blog together.
Thursday 18 April 2013
LETTERS/ WORDS/ TITLES - OH MY!
Worked on Pelham Night of Arts today. I did some research into a grant from the Niagara Community Foundation. JoAnn Krick was most helpful. She sent me a copy of the application for a "mini grant".After reading the criteria, I decided this was best handled by a town employee that knows the ins and outs of the questions being asked.I also did some investigating into the Canadian Banking system regarding grants for the arts. This process is more complicated and will take time to research thoroughly. I think someone from the town that has banking experience would be able to use the correct jargon when approaching these institutions.
Finally, sent my web designer 3 more photo's of recent paintings to add to my website, They can be found quickly in the section devoted to New Work. One is called "Waiting". one is called "Strip Mining and the third is called"Vessels". I don't know about other artists and how they select names for their paintings, specially, non objective ones. I find it difficult sometimes to come up with a creative and appropriate title. On other occasions, the names just trip off the tip of ones tongue so to speak. Maybe, if one has music playing in the background as one looks at the painting trying to compose a title, it might jog the creative juices or cause the little grey cells to vibrate at a quicker rate and in so doing produce more inspired thought processes. I'll try it next time, when I have a brain freeze.
Wednesday 17 April 2013
YEAH! PAINTINGS LOOK AMAZING -
I cannot thank everyone at FrameCraft enough for the excellent job they have done on my framing. Absolutely worth every penny. The paintings show so well ,dressed in their beautiful wood frames. They have a very simple elegance. I am really pleased with the way the experimental paintings look.
I have taken an additional three paintings in to be framed and I am very excited about what the finished product will look like. I will have to take photos of my double booth at the Pelham Art Festival this year. Can't wait to see the impact they have.
I have taken an additional three paintings in to be framed and I am very excited about what the finished product will look like. I will have to take photos of my double booth at the Pelham Art Festival this year. Can't wait to see the impact they have.
Sunday 14 April 2013
DAY THREE OF EXPERIMENTAL WORK & THREE SWANS
Well, well, well, where to start?
Perhaps a cuppa tea, will help the process. Put the kettle on , put out a large mug and a teabag. Looking at the painting turning it, evaluating what's happening or not. Decided to lift a large section on part of the cruciform foundation allowing the gold colour to flow into another shape. Evaluate, did this lift do what I wanted it to - yes, I think so. Clean up edges of various shapes.
Decision - do I continue layering or stop - am I done? Have I said what I wanted to? If I add a layer on top of the wc I'll have to spray it at least 3 times with fixative and allow it to sit until thoroughly dry. Will another layer enhance what I've done or distract? I think I'll spray the work with fixative anyway, set it aside for awhile and come back to it.
Brought out swan painting and put it up on the easel. Looking at the under painting. I have decided to work this painting with an analogous colour palette red violet, violet, blue violet, blue, blue green and yellow & red orange as compliments. The reference photo was taken this winter along the Niagara river. Re worked the wintery water background, thin sheets of ice can be seen floating along side the birds " gives new meaning to" A Polar Bear Dip". The swan in the foreground is the smaller of the three perhaps last years gosling. They have such a peaceful grace about them. Deceptive looks mask how strong and aggressive these beautiful birds are. I have decided to paint the shadow area of the larger swan in the background a greyed blue violet, the one directly in front of him with greyed violet shadows and the little one in the foreground in greyed red violet. The reflections are fantastic as is the light on each bird.
Perhaps a cuppa tea, will help the process. Put the kettle on , put out a large mug and a teabag. Looking at the painting turning it, evaluating what's happening or not. Decided to lift a large section on part of the cruciform foundation allowing the gold colour to flow into another shape. Evaluate, did this lift do what I wanted it to - yes, I think so. Clean up edges of various shapes.
Decision - do I continue layering or stop - am I done? Have I said what I wanted to? If I add a layer on top of the wc I'll have to spray it at least 3 times with fixative and allow it to sit until thoroughly dry. Will another layer enhance what I've done or distract? I think I'll spray the work with fixative anyway, set it aside for awhile and come back to it.
Brought out swan painting and put it up on the easel. Looking at the under painting. I have decided to work this painting with an analogous colour palette red violet, violet, blue violet, blue, blue green and yellow & red orange as compliments. The reference photo was taken this winter along the Niagara river. Re worked the wintery water background, thin sheets of ice can be seen floating along side the birds " gives new meaning to" A Polar Bear Dip". The swan in the foreground is the smaller of the three perhaps last years gosling. They have such a peaceful grace about them. Deceptive looks mask how strong and aggressive these beautiful birds are. I have decided to paint the shadow area of the larger swan in the background a greyed blue violet, the one directly in front of him with greyed violet shadows and the little one in the foreground in greyed red violet. The reflections are fantastic as is the light on each bird.
Saturday 13 April 2013
HERE IS THE FIRST EXPERIMENT COMPLETED
DAY TWO OF THE GREAT EXPERIMENT
I unwrapped my experiment from yesterday, looked carefully at the additional dimension created by wrapping it in kitchen wrap. Set it up on my easel and went and put a load of wash on. It's Saturday here and it's when our hydro rates are lowest so I try and get all my laundry done using the lowest rates. Back at my easel. I have set out 2 fresh water containers, tissues and a soft brush. As I look at the piece, I begin to see shapes to lift. Today, I am trying to stay totally focused on non representational shapes. I have decided to document this process and so I took an initial photo. I became so engrossed in what I was attempting to do that I forgot my morning snack and it wasn't until my tummy started rumbling that I checked my watch and realised it was way past my lunch When I returned to my studio I looked at the work, & realised I had to many wormy looking shapes. I decided to go big incorporating the already lifted shapes - ah much better. I keep turning the work to see which way I like it best, while doing this I started to see racing cars, a Pinocchio, a hand, all kinds of realistic shapes. I think this will be a good place to snap another picture. I am also considering adding an additional layer perhaps a half drop repeat of a simple geometric pattern or perhaps stamping. This process certainly gets the little grey cells excited! It's off to work I go - more laundry - more paint!
Darn, interrupted by the doorbell - company - everything on hold until later.
Two pic's from the beginning of this experiment. Colours need adjusting from the actual to the web. But the gist of the experiment can be seen.
Darn, interrupted by the doorbell - company - everything on hold until later.
Two pic's from the beginning of this experiment. Colours need adjusting from the actual to the web. But the gist of the experiment can be seen.
Friday 12 April 2013
WORKING ON SUBTRACTIVE METHOD TODAY -NON REPRESENTATIONAL
Today, I remembered to thicken my watercolour paint prior to applying them to the canvas, better results I think. Working analogously still red violet, violet, blue violet with compliment of yellow. I have applied a layer of plastic wrap to create a secondary level of texture. Currently this piece is drying.
I took the canvas I started yesterday upstairs late last night to have a second look at what had transpired. At first, I wasn't too impressed, but on a second look I started to see some possibilities. I have been working on it again this afternoon and doing some light lifting, looking at it as a non objective piece. I started to see things like shell shapes, wings, bottles a hand grasping a vase/bottle, a lady with a wine glass on her nose, someone with their head tilted back eating grapes - perhaps this painting is from the Greek god of wine Baccus' home and these are old wine vessels spilling out the last vestiges of the nectar left over from an orgy! Goodness this would be a fun painting to have in a dining room or wine cellar.
I have also been working on Art In The Park today. I am very pleased to say that we juried in a new artist, Lauren Ellis, ex Wellander who now lives in Guelph. Lauren works in graphite/pencil. We are all very happy to welcome her aboard. I contacted both Monique and Sally re our flyer for the show emphasizing the need to have it in the hands of our artists by May 1st. we have artists participating in 2 major shows in the peninsula were the combined attendance is approx. 9,000 people. Plus once May starts many art shows will follow all leading up to ours in July, so we need flyers to send to our clients and to hand out to new folks at the shows we will be participating in this spring/summer.
More cheques have come in from artists this week and I'll have to get them over to the Town next week.
I took the canvas I started yesterday upstairs late last night to have a second look at what had transpired. At first, I wasn't too impressed, but on a second look I started to see some possibilities. I have been working on it again this afternoon and doing some light lifting, looking at it as a non objective piece. I started to see things like shell shapes, wings, bottles a hand grasping a vase/bottle, a lady with a wine glass on her nose, someone with their head tilted back eating grapes - perhaps this painting is from the Greek god of wine Baccus' home and these are old wine vessels spilling out the last vestiges of the nectar left over from an orgy! Goodness this would be a fun painting to have in a dining room or wine cellar.
I have also been working on Art In The Park today. I am very pleased to say that we juried in a new artist, Lauren Ellis, ex Wellander who now lives in Guelph. Lauren works in graphite/pencil. We are all very happy to welcome her aboard. I contacted both Monique and Sally re our flyer for the show emphasizing the need to have it in the hands of our artists by May 1st. we have artists participating in 2 major shows in the peninsula were the combined attendance is approx. 9,000 people. Plus once May starts many art shows will follow all leading up to ours in July, so we need flyers to send to our clients and to hand out to new folks at the shows we will be participating in this spring/summer.
More cheques have come in from artists this week and I'll have to get them over to the Town next week.
Thursday 11 April 2013
OH MY GOSH! 2,000 READERS OF MY BLOG!!!
WOW!! Hello Everyone,
I am so excited that my Blog has reached around the world and over 2,000 readers. Thank you all so much for taking the time out of your busy schedules to read about me and my studio work.
Thank you!! :)
I am so excited that my Blog has reached around the world and over 2,000 readers. Thank you all so much for taking the time out of your busy schedules to read about me and my studio work.
Thank you!! :)
EXPERIMENTING IN THE STUDIO TODAY
Experimenting with watercolour on canvas today. Great way to use up some of my older watercolour tubes. The colours are rich and lush. Must remember that less water works better as canvas doesn't absorb water like paper. Now waiting for the paint to thoroughly dry before proceeding with next layer.
While waiting for the watercolour paint to start drying, I pulled out a reference photo of three swans that was taken this winter. The swans were floating/swimming between small ice flows on the Niagara River. My best friends mom who will be 88 yrs, young this year, loves swans. I painted a mute swan from the Canadian Arctic for her. She called the painting "Maggie" and it hangs in pride of place above her sofa in her living room. You can see this painting if you go to my website www. patriciahaftar.com go to the gallery lozenge and click, go to Animals and you will see "Maggie". My best friend and her mom went to North Carolina to help her daughter in law who has MS and her granddaughter who has some special needs, while her son is serving overseas in the US Marine Core. I think that I may paint the three swans for my friends mom. If it will make her happy - it will make me happy. I began the painting today. Played with some analegous and tetriad colours - yellow orange, orange, and red orange swans anyone?? Ah well, there is an underpainting started. Yeah!
Are 4 swans, three too many? We'll see. Think I may call my friend.
While waiting for the watercolour paint to start drying, I pulled out a reference photo of three swans that was taken this winter. The swans were floating/swimming between small ice flows on the Niagara River. My best friends mom who will be 88 yrs, young this year, loves swans. I painted a mute swan from the Canadian Arctic for her. She called the painting "Maggie" and it hangs in pride of place above her sofa in her living room. You can see this painting if you go to my website www. patriciahaftar.com go to the gallery lozenge and click, go to Animals and you will see "Maggie". My best friend and her mom went to North Carolina to help her daughter in law who has MS and her granddaughter who has some special needs, while her son is serving overseas in the US Marine Core. I think that I may paint the three swans for my friends mom. If it will make her happy - it will make me happy. I began the painting today. Played with some analegous and tetriad colours - yellow orange, orange, and red orange swans anyone?? Ah well, there is an underpainting started. Yeah!
Are 4 swans, three too many? We'll see. Think I may call my friend.
Wednesday 10 April 2013
Life and Times of an Artist's Easel: GESSO! GESSO! EVERYWHERE - INCLUDING ON ME - OH MY...
Life and Times of an Artist's Easel: GESSO! GESSO! EVERYWHERE - INCLUDING ON ME - OH MY...: Today has been a busy day in our household. I got up early, ready to go in the studio. Made a crock pot chicken dinner that could simmer all...
GESSO! GESSO! EVERYWHERE - INCLUDING ON ME - OH MY GOODNESS!
Today has been a busy day in our household. I got up early, ready to go in the studio. Made a crock pot chicken dinner that could simmer all day. Found my tax statements from the bank. Checked my emails from yesterday. I had one from my son and one with the minutes from last nights meeting for the Pelham Night of Arts which is part of the Pelham Summerfest. It was a very productive meeting lots of great ideas. Anyway, I know sooner checked the emails, my phone began to ring,my daughter in law wanted to drop my grandpuppy ( choc.lab) off for a sleepover. He is off his food and missing my son .Love my grandpuppy. Lori dropped him off and we ( grandpuppy and I)went down in the studio were he had a discussion about world affairs with one of my cats , he eventually found the one sided conversation mind numbing and laid down for a nap and I started to prep for texturing and gessoing a couple of canvases. I put on surgical gloves (but doh! forgot to put on my art smock!!!!) Struggled to get the lid off the litre jar of gesso, I have small hands and it just didn't want to budge - finally out of desperation I decided to crack the lid against the countertop to open it - as I'm wacking away I had this sudden vision of the lid flying off and creating an unforgettable mess - luckily this didn't happen. Had fun playing with the textures - in someways it's like playing in soupy mud. Canvases are prep'd and drying. Even though gloves were on I still managed to get gesso on my shirt - ah well, another art shirt! Tomorrow or Friday will be a special all day paint day. Excited, thinking about colour combinations, more texturing, layers on layers. Must go take grandpuppy for a walk he is bouncing around and crossing his legs - yuk -it's pouring out.
Tuesday 9 April 2013
HERE IS THE WORK UP PAINTING THAT WILL BE USED FOR A LARGER PIECE
I think I'll give this little original to Erica's mom and copies for Cal's dad and Gabi's parents.
I have come to the conclusion that larger is certainly easier, when trying to add details. Maybe that's because my eyesight is so poor. Oh, well this was fun and educational to do.
Sunday 7 April 2013
NEW PAINTING - I'VE BEEN ITCHING TO DO
When we were in Mexico, I took many photo's one of my very favourite is of three children that were at the wedding. I caught Cal, Gabi and Erica sitting patiently on a bench waiting for the bride and groom to come. Cal got restless and kicked his shoe off - I think his feet were hot - it was in the high 80's and humid, little Gabi started to wiggle off the bench - when I turned around her momma was waiting for her and Erica was trying so hard to be very good as she was in the bridal party. I thought the kids looked really sweet and typical of children trying hard to behave at an important occasion. I just had to try and capture the essence of the moment. I may use this painting as a work up for a much larger piece - we'll see - lots to work through.
Spent part of my day working a bit on my Etsy shop www.patriciahaftar.com go to the "E" button and click it will take you to my store. I managed to update my profile, added a new coupon code for 10% off as a Mother's Day Promotion and uploaded two of my new works. I discovered that the photos of the portraits that I'd saved on my lap top flipped when I tried to upload them and I couldn't rotate them - very frustrating as I'd filled out the whole profile, luckily when I went to publish the listing I noticed the positioning of the portrait. I'll have to resolve this issue.
Tomorrow is Monday. Yeah! all Day paint in at my friend Barb's with 10 other artists. Great therapy for the soul.
Spent part of my day working a bit on my Etsy shop www.patriciahaftar.com go to the "E" button and click it will take you to my store. I managed to update my profile, added a new coupon code for 10% off as a Mother's Day Promotion and uploaded two of my new works. I discovered that the photos of the portraits that I'd saved on my lap top flipped when I tried to upload them and I couldn't rotate them - very frustrating as I'd filled out the whole profile, luckily when I went to publish the listing I noticed the positioning of the portrait. I'll have to resolve this issue.
Tomorrow is Monday. Yeah! all Day paint in at my friend Barb's with 10 other artists. Great therapy for the soul.
Friday 5 April 2013
Life and Times of an Artist's Easel: WOW! I AM SO THANKFUL & IMPRESSED
Life and Times of an Artist's Easel: WOW! I AM SO THANKFUL & IMPRESSED: I am so thankful that I work with a framer that believes in me and my work and when I ask for help they bend over backwards to help me fulfi...
WOW! I AM SO THANKFUL & IMPRESSED
I am so thankful that I work with a framer that believes in me and my work and when I ask for help they bend over backwards to help me fulfill my ideals. I took in a large number of original works to be framed for the Pelham Art Festival and I knew the bill would be substantial. They came through with a deal that works for both of us. Another example of how they helped me out, I have a commission client that ordered a very large painting and they wanted it framed. I took it of course to my framers, they did an excellent framing job. Once the frame was on the picture, it no longer fit in my van, FrameCraft transported the painting to my clients and if that wasn't over the top they stayed and hung the painting. It looked fantastic. Happy artist - very happy commission client. Ya gotta love my framer.
However, if I believe (which I do) that I produce high quality work, then I need to respect that work and have it framed properly to show the work at its very best. FrameCraft not only has high quality wood frames and finishes but they have highly trained knowledgeable staff. This framer works with their artists to help them achieve the results they are looking for and delivers the product on time.
Can't speak highly enough of how they have supported me. I wish all artists had the same caring experience with their framers.
However, if I believe (which I do) that I produce high quality work, then I need to respect that work and have it framed properly to show the work at its very best. FrameCraft not only has high quality wood frames and finishes but they have highly trained knowledgeable staff. This framer works with their artists to help them achieve the results they are looking for and delivers the product on time.
Can't speak highly enough of how they have supported me. I wish all artists had the same caring experience with their framers.
Thursday 4 April 2013
GOOD VISIT WITH FRIENDS - WHO WERE VERY HELPFUL INDEED
Just prior to leaving yesterday for my framer.I had a call from a friend and fellow artist which made me fall behind in my schedule a bit.
The drive over to my framer's was beautiful. I drove by Decew Falls, all the colours of the barren fields and forests stripped of their leaves so you can see the true form of the trees. Just love it. Looking for the white swans in the lake - didn't see any, but plenty of Canadian geese.
Once at Frame Craft, it seemed to be an endless stream of paintings coming from the van. Roseanne and her daughter came out to help me position them and try and select appropriate frames. We found some really beautiful textured frames in an espresso finish that really made the portraits pop when we added a thin black liner. the other paintings will be framed with simple modern clean line black frames. The black I think helps direct peoples attention to what is important and that is the painting.
I vacillated with the 3 big paintings between two different sizes of the same frame one about 2 inches wider than the other, they both gave the paintings a sense of presence but, the deeper frame really had impact. Two problems arise. One, I am a person of small stature and holding at 39 years of age and I am slightly concerned that the size and weight of these frames will present a problem as I move them from show to show. Second, I may have to go to my bank and ask them to float me a loan to pay for this order. Oh well nothing ventured nothing gained.
I am awaiting an email from Frame Craft to tell me what the damages will be if I proceed with this order. YIKES! My consolation is that the frames are well made and of solid wood, hence my concern regarding their weight.
The drive over to my framer's was beautiful. I drove by Decew Falls, all the colours of the barren fields and forests stripped of their leaves so you can see the true form of the trees. Just love it. Looking for the white swans in the lake - didn't see any, but plenty of Canadian geese.
Once at Frame Craft, it seemed to be an endless stream of paintings coming from the van. Roseanne and her daughter came out to help me position them and try and select appropriate frames. We found some really beautiful textured frames in an espresso finish that really made the portraits pop when we added a thin black liner. the other paintings will be framed with simple modern clean line black frames. The black I think helps direct peoples attention to what is important and that is the painting.
I vacillated with the 3 big paintings between two different sizes of the same frame one about 2 inches wider than the other, they both gave the paintings a sense of presence but, the deeper frame really had impact. Two problems arise. One, I am a person of small stature and holding at 39 years of age and I am slightly concerned that the size and weight of these frames will present a problem as I move them from show to show. Second, I may have to go to my bank and ask them to float me a loan to pay for this order. Oh well nothing ventured nothing gained.
I am awaiting an email from Frame Craft to tell me what the damages will be if I proceed with this order. YIKES! My consolation is that the frames are well made and of solid wood, hence my concern regarding their weight.
Wednesday 3 April 2013
OFF TO MY FRAMERS - FRAMECRAFT
I haven't seen my framers in a while. It will be good to see them all again. They are so helpful when selecting frames. Never been disappointed, they bend themselves over backwards to accommodate my needs and those of my clients.
I have to be careful with so many new paintings to make decisions as to what will be framed for shows and what will not. I like to frame as many as possible as it makes for a much more cohesive showing.
So down to the studio to make decisions - decisions. Then pack the car and off to Framecraft.
Maybe I'll get some prices on the larger frames and timeline. Mother's Day is coming up quickly.My first show is the Pelham Art Festival.
I have to be careful with so many new paintings to make decisions as to what will be framed for shows and what will not. I like to frame as many as possible as it makes for a much more cohesive showing.
So down to the studio to make decisions - decisions. Then pack the car and off to Framecraft.
Maybe I'll get some prices on the larger frames and timeline. Mother's Day is coming up quickly.My first show is the Pelham Art Festival.
Tuesday 2 April 2013
NEW PAINTINGS ARE ON THE WEBSITE
I am delighted to say that my new work is on my website, Thank you Ex Nilo Designs. You do me proud. New Paintings will be found in Florals, Series and Portraits. Thank you to everyone who commented on the sampling of paintings that I put out on my Facebook page earlier today. just as a note, I find it amazing how colours change when downloading from my camera to the computer and then when uploaded to a webpage.
I have enjoyed throughly experimenting with texture, colour,value and other elements of design. I should have taken pictures during the process. I was like a child let loose for the first time to finger paint - paint/ gesso was all over me -------I now own a large apron!
Thank goodness I had the presents of mind to cover tables in the studio. It's amazing where glue and gold leaf can get if you're not mindful. Plus having a large plastic storage bin for texturing materials is a must.
I will be interested to see how the public receives these new works.
I have enjoyed throughly experimenting with texture, colour,value and other elements of design. I should have taken pictures during the process. I was like a child let loose for the first time to finger paint - paint/ gesso was all over me -------I now own a large apron!
Thank goodness I had the presents of mind to cover tables in the studio. It's amazing where glue and gold leaf can get if you're not mindful. Plus having a large plastic storage bin for texturing materials is a must.
I will be interested to see how the public receives these new works.
Sunday 31 March 2013
New Work Posted to My Website
So excited, I have finally photographed all 14 of my new paintings I have posted the majority of them on my website under the category "New Work". I will soon separate out a new section called "Series". I have had such a ride on the learning curve, what a thrill better than any ride at an amusement park!
Thanks to the professional photographers from National Geographic who visited Ghana Africa and captured the beautiful young women. Ghanian women show a rich abundance of pattern in tattoo's,hair patterns,jewelry and fabrics. Their skin tones are rich and lush,high cheekbones,fine features of north African peoples. These photo's of these young women captivated me , I painted one then another and another on and on. In total I have painted five to date. I was enticed by the patterns in their jewelry and fabric. When I was in Mexico, a friend of our family brought their toddler. She was almost two years old. A picture was taken of her as she was looking for her mommy. As soon as I saw the picture I knew I had to paint her. Her held out hands, turn & angle of her head, her little foot lifted as if she is stepping right out of the painting. Love it. I purposely slightly exaggerated her jesturing hands to emphasis the pose.
I have been exploring the use of colour, texture and space division in landscapes. Using an analgous palette with it's compliment. I painted in acrylics, but added texture with crackle glaze, gold leaf and a variety of found materials. The three landscapes in this mini series are from local Niagara scenes, two from an area called "The Glen" one depicting the American side of the Glen and showing some of the gorge, the other of the Canadian side following the trail. The third is from an area called "Balls Falls". I took the photo a couple of summers ago as part of a presentation for a commission client. It had been a very hot summer and the water coming over the falls had dried up to all but a trickle and the river water was laying in still and quite in large pools.
The third series continues my exploration in texture and the subtractive method but this time with watercolour on canvas and using an expanded analgous palette and its compliment. Again I chose my favourite and used two landscapes from photos I took in Prince Edward County. One is from Sandbanks Provincial Park on Lake Ontario the other of farm buildings just north of Napanee, Ontario.
Not part of the series but an exploration on its own is a painting of Sandbanks Provincial Park,the same photo as the one I used in the aforementioned series, but this one is looking at the impact of grey scale.
You will also see in the next week a couple of florals one of Irises using watercolour & acrylic on canvas with texturing and the second one is a soft spring depiction of apple blossoms from a farm in Pelham.
Please check the paintings out at www.patriciahaftar.com go to "New Work" lozenge.
Thanks to the professional photographers from National Geographic who visited Ghana Africa and captured the beautiful young women. Ghanian women show a rich abundance of pattern in tattoo's,hair patterns,jewelry and fabrics. Their skin tones are rich and lush,high cheekbones,fine features of north African peoples. These photo's of these young women captivated me , I painted one then another and another on and on. In total I have painted five to date. I was enticed by the patterns in their jewelry and fabric. When I was in Mexico, a friend of our family brought their toddler. She was almost two years old. A picture was taken of her as she was looking for her mommy. As soon as I saw the picture I knew I had to paint her. Her held out hands, turn & angle of her head, her little foot lifted as if she is stepping right out of the painting. Love it. I purposely slightly exaggerated her jesturing hands to emphasis the pose.
I have been exploring the use of colour, texture and space division in landscapes. Using an analgous palette with it's compliment. I painted in acrylics, but added texture with crackle glaze, gold leaf and a variety of found materials. The three landscapes in this mini series are from local Niagara scenes, two from an area called "The Glen" one depicting the American side of the Glen and showing some of the gorge, the other of the Canadian side following the trail. The third is from an area called "Balls Falls". I took the photo a couple of summers ago as part of a presentation for a commission client. It had been a very hot summer and the water coming over the falls had dried up to all but a trickle and the river water was laying in still and quite in large pools.
The third series continues my exploration in texture and the subtractive method but this time with watercolour on canvas and using an expanded analgous palette and its compliment. Again I chose my favourite and used two landscapes from photos I took in Prince Edward County. One is from Sandbanks Provincial Park on Lake Ontario the other of farm buildings just north of Napanee, Ontario.
Not part of the series but an exploration on its own is a painting of Sandbanks Provincial Park,the same photo as the one I used in the aforementioned series, but this one is looking at the impact of grey scale.
You will also see in the next week a couple of florals one of Irises using watercolour & acrylic on canvas with texturing and the second one is a soft spring depiction of apple blossoms from a farm in Pelham.
Please check the paintings out at www.patriciahaftar.com go to "New Work" lozenge.
Monday 18 March 2013
Life and Times of an Artist's Easel: SUBTRACTION LEADS TO ADDITION
Life and Times of an Artist's Easel: SUBTRACTION LEADS TO ADDITION: Denise Sperry's workshop on Texture and the subtractive method to bring out a subject made for a wonderful little weekend dance for the...
SUBTRACTION LEADS TO ADDITION
Denise Sperry's workshop on Texture and the subtractive method to bring out a subject made for a wonderful little weekend dance for the "little grey cells". I was in gesso up the ying yang! While the class worked on 300 lb watercolour paper I worked on canvas.
My first endeavour was headed for big problems as I couldn't follow what Denise was doing as I'd brought my watercolour palette not my tubes. But, I decided not to waste time and proceeded to work on my own project using a variety textures, watercolours from my palette and tubes of heavy acrylic. Lifting and highlighting leaves,texturing again, stamping and spattering to my hearts content.
I worked my first piece using a desert triad of primary colours. Deciding on an over all cool feel to the picture,with blue in largest field, yellow in secondary and red in very small amounts. Cruciform for structure. Movement created through texturing and subtraction.
I will post samples of this project.
Project 2: Landscape:
I choose an analagous colour scheme along with a compliment.Textured my canvas. Sloshed juicy colours across my canvas again using a cruciform structure. Looked for interesting shapes in the path way of light, used subtraction and their came the subject to the fore like magic.
Denise critiqued through out the work shop helping the artists to focus on areas that worked and those that needed additional thought. The artists all shared ideas, equipment etc. and encouraged each other through the weekend.
I was taken aback when it was suggested that I put my work into juried competitions as I had done my own thing through out the weekend. I am going to continue to experiment with texture.
Thanks Denise for the inspiration!
My first endeavour was headed for big problems as I couldn't follow what Denise was doing as I'd brought my watercolour palette not my tubes. But, I decided not to waste time and proceeded to work on my own project using a variety textures, watercolours from my palette and tubes of heavy acrylic. Lifting and highlighting leaves,texturing again, stamping and spattering to my hearts content.
I worked my first piece using a desert triad of primary colours. Deciding on an over all cool feel to the picture,with blue in largest field, yellow in secondary and red in very small amounts. Cruciform for structure. Movement created through texturing and subtraction.
I will post samples of this project.
Project 2: Landscape:
I choose an analagous colour scheme along with a compliment.Textured my canvas. Sloshed juicy colours across my canvas again using a cruciform structure. Looked for interesting shapes in the path way of light, used subtraction and their came the subject to the fore like magic.
Denise critiqued through out the work shop helping the artists to focus on areas that worked and those that needed additional thought. The artists all shared ideas, equipment etc. and encouraged each other through the weekend.
I was taken aback when it was suggested that I put my work into juried competitions as I had done my own thing through out the weekend. I am going to continue to experiment with texture.
Thanks Denise for the inspiration!
Thursday 14 March 2013
PAINTING! PAINTING! PAINTING!
Painting - so exciting when a trip leads to inspiration and experimentation click. Can't wait to see what my fellow artists think and awaiting the opening night of the Pelham Art Festival. I have been ferreted away in my studio for the past month and a half ever since our return from Mexico. It is delicious creating new work.
I have been holding off having the completed paintings photographed and added to my website. I'd like their official "TA DA" to be at the festival. Pushing oneself to work in an area that is unfamiliar is exhilarating, like going on a roller coaster for the first time. Your sure it will be an experience of a life time but never sure whether it will be as intense & well received as one anticipates.
Looking forward to Denise Sperry's workshop on "Texture" tomorrow. Although the workshop is for water colour medium, I'm sure it will translate well to my favourite acrylics.
I have also been busy with the start up of the 2nd Annual Art In The Park. We have almost our full compliment our artists and our new artists will be announced on the Pelham "Summerfest" Facebook Page along with a sample of their work and a brief artist's statement. Looking forward to setting up the "Artists Village" in Peace Park Thursday July 18th.
I have been holding off having the completed paintings photographed and added to my website. I'd like their official "TA DA" to be at the festival. Pushing oneself to work in an area that is unfamiliar is exhilarating, like going on a roller coaster for the first time. Your sure it will be an experience of a life time but never sure whether it will be as intense & well received as one anticipates.
Looking forward to Denise Sperry's workshop on "Texture" tomorrow. Although the workshop is for water colour medium, I'm sure it will translate well to my favourite acrylics.
I have also been busy with the start up of the 2nd Annual Art In The Park. We have almost our full compliment our artists and our new artists will be announced on the Pelham "Summerfest" Facebook Page along with a sample of their work and a brief artist's statement. Looking forward to setting up the "Artists Village" in Peace Park Thursday July 18th.
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