Late Summer Sketching

Blueprints are as useful in art as they are in architecture; I usually consider a thoughtful preliminary drawing to be the backbone of a successful painting.  I like to practice drawing for its own sake whenever I can, but sometimes I would rather be practicing in a group/public setting than alone in my studio, both for the good company and the variety.  That having been said, I finally made it over to the Monday morning figure drawing session at the Huntsville Art League and look forward to returning regularly.  Our model on the 13th had such subtle features that getting a good likeness in a short period of time was challenging.  I am not sure that I ever quite captured the spark that made her features entirely her own, but I do like the two final drawings I did quite a bit regardless [above].  As summer begins to hint at fall and the school year begins again, I start to make new goals, pick up my sketchbook and vow anew to squeeze as much art and beauty into my life as is humanly possible.

With that inspiration in mind, I made sure to take a few brief minutes yesterday between appointments and other activities to sketch my mother [above] under the shifting shade of old trees in Big Spring Park. . .

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Candid Camera

Some of my best shots so far this year, taken with my new Canon Rebel T3. . .

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New Commission: The Eternal City

Rome.  I have not had the chance to see it with my own eyes yet, but all roads do seem to lead me to it.  The fateful day that I walked into Dr. Gerberding's Latin class in 2006 cemented my fascination with the Eternal City.  Since then, many a friend has ventured to Rome and come back with a grand story to tell.  A new outlook on life.  A greater desire to follow that ever sound piece of Latin advice: Carpe diem.  When my friend and former Latin classmate Jerry Gilley asked that I transform one of his favorite travel photos into a large abstract painting, I wanted to dive into the project immediately.  It almost felt like a collaboration, given that I have great admiration for Gilley's photography.  His photo of St. Peter's [below] is ominous and dark, with strong geometry.  My own abstract style is already rather geometric, so I focused on angles and structure in the composition for Roma [above].  

While I originally considered following the picture more closely, the warm reds and browns in Gilley's office and livingroom inspired something a bit softer and brighter.  I accentuated the size and curves of the lamp for contrast and avoided harsh outlines to suggest the more romantic appeal of classical Italian style.  Interestingly enough, however, I took a few of my other stylistic cues from the clean, modern architectural paintings of Feininger.  Gilley-- I hope that you will enjoy this piece for years to come.  Thank you for giving me the opportunity to turn many years of admiration for all things Roman, many nights listening to our classmates' wonderful memories, into a piece of art for your home.

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On Display at the Carnegie Visual Arts Center

From August 7th-September 22nd, the Carnegie Visual Arts Center in Decatur will be holding a North Alabama group show called "Embracing Art: A Coming Together of Amateur and Professional Artists".  I am honored and excited to announce that two of my pieces, Thinking and Clockwork Woman [below] were accepted into the show!  The Carnegie Visual Arts Center is exquisite and features some very prominent artists from our area-- if you find yourself in Decatur (or need an idea for a day trip), be sure to see the show!

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