Friday, December 16, 2011

Summers Past No. 2

Summers Past No. 2, 8 x 8
commission

Here is the second painting, this one of Matthew's younger brother, Jeffrey. The style of this painting came out a bit different from the one posted yesterday, for a few reasons. Among Jeffrey's favorite childhood memories were piñata parties given along Cypress Creek in honor of his and other relatives' birthdays. While I didn't have much in the way of compelling reference photography, I did have enough to give me an accurate sense of the setting, where various trees, paths, the creek, etc. were in relation to each other. Considering how well family members know this place and how much time they've spent here over the years, this was important. 

I also had a sharp photo of one of said colorful piñatas in motion, as well as photos of Jeffrey at prime piñata-busting age, though none showed him whacking, or primed to whack, a piñata. Taking these elements into account, yet painting quite a bit from imagination, I ended up emphasizing the bright colors and movement of the piñata and carrying this through to the rest of the composition. The result was a more whimsical piece than the first. I think this is okay, since the paintings will reside in the respective homes of each brother, both of whom are now young adults living on their own.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Summers Past

Summers Past, 8 x 8
commission

This is one of two small commissions I just finished. A family friend, who is mother to two boys who are now young adults, wanted to give each a painting as Christmas presents. Both commissions depict memories of the boys' favorite summer activities at their grandparents' property along Cypress Creek in Wimberley. This painting is of the older brother, Matthew. I will post Jeffrey's picture tomorrow. Click here to view a plein air study I did along the creek last June.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

New Gallery Opening in Georgetown

I'm happy to be among the original group of central Texas painters and sculptors to have work displayed at Through the Looking Glass, a new gallery opening this weekend just off the square in Georgetown. The owner, Barbara Falcone of Austin, will be welcoming visitors with snacks and refreshments Friday, Saturday and Sunday on this, the first weekend of Georgetown Square's extended-hours holiday shopping season.

It will be a great chance to do some holiday shopping away from the mega-malls. Instead, stroll the many shops on historic Georgetown Square, and stop in to see what Barbara has to offer. I will be there later in the day both Friday and Saturday. I hope you can stop by. 

Address: 122 East 8th Street (near the end of the first block east of Main Street)

Opening Hours: Friday 4 pm - 8 pm, Saturday 10 am - 8 pm, Sunday 1 pm - 5 pm.

Directions: 
I-35 Exit 261 (29/University) 
East (right if coming from Austin) on 29/University
North (left) on Austin Avenue
East (right) on 8th Street
Cross Main Street, gallery is 3/4 of a block down on the right side, just past State Farm Insurance.