The Painting Studio in Action
Coming from a family of quilt makers where each scrap of fabric was seen for its potential, I view wet, yet-unused paint with the same expectant eye. Nothing’s wasted. This also includes paintings which don’t quite make it the first, second, or even twentieth time around. They’re kept on hand for future use — possibly for reworking or torn into different shapes and collaged or woven into other paintings. Layers are added and added, building up depth. In the process, images evolve, themes surface, paintings are born.
Typically several paintings are in progress simultaneously. None are
pre-envisioned or laid out beforehand. Rather each is built line by line, shape by shape, layer by layer. Usually, one or two claim primary focus. When a specific color is mixed expressly for them and applied, while the brush is still loaded, I cast about for other paintings where that particular color might be well used. Once paint is squeezed onto the palette, every bit gets used somewhere.
pre-envisioned or laid out beforehand. Rather each is built line by line, shape by shape, layer by layer. Usually, one or two claim primary focus. When a specific color is mixed expressly for them and applied, while the brush is still loaded, I cast about for other paintings where that particular color might be well used. Once paint is squeezed onto the palette, every bit gets used somewhere.
My painting and woodworking studio spaces are small and intimate. All surfaces, including the floor, are routinely pressed into service. Yet out of each, incredible amounts of creativity flow; and vibrant, upbeat artworks emerge.
Working on Aspen Glow Serenade
acrylics on canvass
12’W x 5’H
Mixing a color for “Crossroads.”
Working on “Crossroads.” Behind it is a diptych patiently awaiting further development.
All works visible here and below are in progress, with no projection of how they’ll evolve, or when they’ll be deemed complete.
I have a great love of words. Titling each piece is a big — and fun — part of my process. Before a work is considered finished, it gets signed, dated, titled, measured, photographed, matted and framed (if on paper), and all information entered into a database; then — and only then — it’s ready to greet the world and find a new home.
