Peripheral Vision

posted in: All, Art Lessons, Uncategorized | 1

What keeps an artist working? Is it inspiration or a muse? Sometimes it’s far more practical, like an actual job. You know, for the money. Many consider it a pastime, or a passion. Art making can also be about seeking … Continued

A Journey in Five Drawings

posted in: All, Art Lessons, Newest, USA | 9

North Carolina.  I am a guest at my cousin’s house. Technically, she’s my first cousin-once removed. We looked it up. The place is charming and neat—tended to, I would say. Young couples seem inclined to pay attention to certain details that … Continued

Vanishing Bainbridge

posted in: All, Art Lessons, USA | 5

Working on my sketch of the old Bainbridge Lumber building, I find myself wondering. Is it still standing?  During my last visit to the Island, I hadn’t heard of immediate plans for demolition, but it’s inevitable right? From my perch … Continued

Inside the Moat

posted in: All, Art Lessons, Thailand | 15

Sometimes when you least expect it, small endeavors huddle up, start talking to each other, and conspire to become a major project. Here’s a good example. My street sketching practice has officially become an obsession and how could it not … Continued

A Blue Motel

posted in: All, Art Lessons, USA | 9

Zion, Utah. Monumental. Magnificent. Magical. Lofty words woefully insufficient to describe the landscape surrounding me. Rich bands of burnt orange, pink, and yellow reveal the architecture of time, weather, and water. In the cracks and along ridge tops, feisty bands … Continued

The Color Pink

posted in: All, Art Lessons, Thailand, Uncategorized | 11

What do you think about pink? It gets mixed reviews. Some regard it as sickeningly sweet and associated with Pepto Bismol, princesses, ballerinas, and Barbie dolls. On the other hand, it’s bright, playful, and upbeat. Too much could drive a … Continued

About a Mural

posted in: All, Art Lessons, Uncategorized | 16

What so special about a mural? It’s not decisions regarding color or line—those are the same as in a traditional painting. The rules of composition remain constant—creating an eye path, establishing focal points, addressing the edges, distribution of light. Similar … Continued

Art in a Time of Anxiety

posted in: All, Art Lessons, USA | 16

Above: “The GOP” 2017 The most profound lesson I learned in studying art history, is that art reflects the time in which it is made. It speaks to popular culture, economic shifts, historic events, and political winds. Art is not … Continued