Hodges Soileau

"Scribbling in the Margins #2"

2012-01-24T08:56:00.001-08:00

Oct. 5th, 2011, I posted my first "Scribbling in the Margins" post. This is number 2. I don't know how much interest there is in this type of imagery. As I mentioned in the first post, I do believe drawing and sketching are useful as a continuing practice, as well as an art expression in and of itself. Sketch books keep one's observation skills sharp. Read more in the previous post October fifth, 2011.

"Embracing the Internet, Facebook, and Blogs"

2012-01-15T12:20:00.000-08:00

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

"Walking the Ladies"18x24 oil on linen. I will let this sit for a while and tweak it later

"Embracing the Internet, Face book, and Blogs"

When it comes to computers, Internet, face book, blogs, etc., I am probably one of the least technical people on the planet. I have mixed sentiments towards all of this. Like many, I am usually reluctant to embrace new things. My interest in it is for the sake of promoting my art, workshops, and supporting galleries that represent me. When I think back on the fact that I was probably one of the last of my generation of illustrators to finally get a fax machine, it is hard to believe that I have embraced the present technology to the degree that I have…..not that I have even come close to understanding this stuff. My son has pretty much dragged me kicking and screaming into the twenty first century.

Back in my illustration days I used to use couriers to deliver overnight sketches to New York city from Ct. I did this for years, and spent wheel barrels full of money on these types of deliveries by all of the well known couriers. We also used the train conductors as couriers. Once I finally broke down and purchased a fax machine, I could not believe that I actually functioned the way I did without it. Once you had it you could not go back. It is like getting air conditioning in the South as a young lad…..once you had it, you are spoiled forever.

Before the advent of the Internet, face book, and blogs, I never thought much about articulating thoughts about my work, or art in general. I can only speak for myself of course, but I think blogs and face book are one of the most useful tools artists have been given to express themselves, and to expose their work to a very large audience of like minded folks….that have a common interest. I feel that I personally never have anything that profound to say….just simple personal observations that could possibly resonate with others who have the same interest, or passion for painting and drawing.

The thing I really like about all this is, that one can put images up and, it seems to be a real good system for getting feedback. One can get a feel for what strikes a cord with a majority….and also what does not get so much attention. I get a lot of reaction to some images and others only marginal response….and that is expected. I’m not saying that this is an absolutely accurate measure, or test of work, but it does give one some indication as to whether one has done something that others respond to. It is almost like having a marketing tool at one’s disposal. Comments on Face Book for example….One always hopes that responses, or comments, are based first on an emotional reaction to the work….. as well as the technical aspect of it. There is no pressure to comment or not, so one would assume that when a comment, or a like is posted, it is because someone is reacting to an image for what ever reason. Before a painting makes it to a frame, one can get some idea of how it will be received. This is of course not a fool proof method. It may not work at all, but I think it is better than dancing alone. Of course one can always do what I do most of the time……listen to my wife. Marilyn is pretty good most of the time. It is hard to be objective about your own work at times. It is nice to have someone you trust to tell what you need to hear, and not only what you want to hear.

The other thing that comes to mind is….what if my generation of illustrator would have had the technology that exists today? It would seem to follow that it would have been so much easier to promote ones self. Until recently, I have never done much self promotion, with the exception of ads years ago through my rep. Everyone would obviously benefit from more advertising and some type of self promotion. I think this new world of instant exposure allows one to do some of this without all the tremendous economic hardship of magazine ads, posters, etc. These are the kinds of silly things that bounce around my head when I’m on my daily walks along the inter-coastal. As always, these are only my personal opinions and observations, and do not necessarily reflect any universal views on this subject. Thanks for taking the time to listening to my ramblings.
　

"Newest Small Studio Paintings"

2012-01-07T10:53:00.000-08:00

This old flatbed truck came from a trip to a wonderful piece of property in my home town. On a recent trip to a class reunion, the owner of this great little bed and breakfast, Le Village, in Eunice, Louisiana has this old truck sitting like an old rusty piece of sculpture on the property. Of course my love for old rusty things made this an irresistible subject for me. It is only a 9x12 done very quickly, so not much time was invested. I just wanted to get it out of my system. There are, however, many scenes on this five acres that I have plans for paintings. Figures in landscape mostly. I am a little excited about the possibilities. The title of the painting is "Felicia`s Flatbed" named after our host and friend Felicia.

This little nocturne is from a trip to a farm a few years ago. I go back through reference occasionally and see things that I somehow over looked, or missed for one reason or another. This was a herd of grazing horses....there were six originally. I turned the shot into a black and white to see the values, and it suddenly looked like a night pasture, so I made up the color and used the values and information to make it a night scene. I usually do not do this sort of thing, but if it conveys the idea of night, then I think it is OK to do that. I would prefer to have experienced the actual night shot. I don`t know how convincing it is, but I like it, and ultimately that is what counts.....for me.

"Last Three Studio Painitings of 2011".

2011-12-29T09:41:00.000-08:00

"Mystery of the Monarch" 24x20 oil on linen

These are my last three paintings for this year, 2011. This first painting, "Mystery of the Monarch",has been kicking around the studio for a few weeks. It was, as they say, done quickly over a period of time. It started out with a figure in it, and evolved to this......not sure if is a better solution than the one I started with, but I like it!

"Peaceful Summer Afternoon" 16x30 oil on linen is a larger version of a small painting I did last summer....."Summer Afternoon" 12x9 oil on linen. I always intended to do a larger one when I painted the study. There are always things that I am happier with in the studies, but overall, I think it translated fairly well into a bigger piece.

"Summer dreams and Smoked Mullet" 22x28 oil on linen

It will be interesting to see how this painting will be received. The customer base for this type of painting might not be as broad as some of my other subjects, but I think good bad or indifferent, I felt like I had to finish and not abandon this one. I consider it done, but who knows, I might tweak it some more in 2012. Happy New Year to all and I`ll see you next year.

"Recent end of the year oil studies 9x12 and under....for possible paintings in 2012"

2011-12-29T08:11:00.000-08:00

9x6 oil on linen panel

10x8 oil on linen panel

9x12 oil on linen panel

8x12 oil on linen panel

6x9 oil on linen panel

"American Bison" 6x9 oil on linen panel

"At Creekside" 6x9 oil on linen

Just thought I would post a few things at the end of the year. I did not want anyone to think I was slacking on the job here! These are little, very quick sketches done in oil on little linen panels. I don't always do preliminary studies before starting a larger piece. If the idea is firmly resolved in my mind's eye, I will go ahead and start. There is no best way, or only one way to do this. Sometimes it is just fun to do the small ones, and if they are reasonably successful, they can be sold or given to friends, family etc. Most of these do not even have titles yet. Some may not make it to the larger format. Anyway, Happy New Year everyone.

"Plein Air Painting"~Style, or Process.

2011-12-02T14:18:00.000-08:00

" Sunday Afternoon" 9x12 oil on linen

"Spanish Point" 12x16 oil on linen

Recent conversations about Plein Air painting have me thinking about what I believe is a misconception many have about plein air painting, and what it really is. I can remember when the term for studies, or paintings done outdoors was Field Sketches…….now Plein Air seems to be the universal term everyone uses for outdoor painting. Plein Air is actually a French expression which means, In the open air. Artists have been trying to capture the natural light outdoors since before the turn of the century…..1870s the Naturalist and the Impressionist were the strongest proponents, and passionately pursued this type of painting.

Some folks think that plein air is a style of painting. There may be some who teach plein air as a painting style. The problem with teaching any style is that, as beautiful as they might be, sometimes it might be difficult to distinguish one from the other. I personally feel that plein air painting is not a style of painting. It should not be thought of as a style, but the actual act of, or process, of painting out doors. Many artist do large compositions outdoors taking several days to complete…..this is still plein air painting. There almost always seems to be a freshness, or spontaneous immediacy to paintings done from life, but one does not have to necessarily change the look, or style of one’s paintings just because one is painting plein air, or outdoors. It really does not make sense to think of it differently. Of course, I am only speaking for myself. The only difference would be of time management, weather conditions, or anticipation of possible light changes.

I personally try to have my studio paintings, and my plein air paintings look as though one could not tell whether it was done in studio, or on location. That does not always happen of course, but then all paintings are not always successful…..but, it is my intent to treat them the same. I have some paintings that I think satisfy that criteria more than others, and after being set aside for sometime, it is difficult to tell which are plein air, or studio paintings. I am not a pure plein air painter, and I actually spend more time in the studio, but I know the value of painting from life, or outdoors, makes me a better studio painter. If nothing else, it teaches one to recognize the deficiency of photo reference. Cameras capture technical information wonderfully, but unfortunately cannot see what the human eye can see……when it comes to interpreting what one observes.

Obviously, the time restraint of light outdoors requires that one either work on a size that is manageable for one short session, or one has to come back to that location on subsequent days (with similar light) to complete a larger composition. I heard, or read, something about this subject once that made sense to me…..“when in the studio, pretend that you are on location and use your experience from painting from life, and some of that immediacy and freshness might be conveyed in the studio work“, or something to that effect. It is something that I am always conscious of, and certainly something to consider. I am sure there are many views on this subject, and it probably has been discussed and pondered with all views being valid. Being that I am a studio painter, and a plein air painter, this is just a personal observation that I wanted to share, and certainly does not necessarily reflect a universal attitude towards this subject.

"An Old Pastel Portrait of Pearl Buck"

2011-11-16T11:29:00.000-08:00

I was digging through some flat files for something else, and came across this old pastel portrait of the author, Pearl Buck. I do not use pastel much, if ever anymore, but at one time before oil became my main medium of choice, I used pastels and watercolor almost exclusively. This is one of the few paintings with dry pigment that I painted that has survived. Many were destroyed, misplaced, sold or given away. This portrait was used as a fron'tis-piece for a book she authored. It escapes me at the moment, but it is fun to come across an old work that you can still look at, and not hate to much. Might just have to bring out the old dusty chalks, and give them a turn on the old easel to see if we can still get along! I`m sure the results will look significantly different now after all this time. This portrait is a late seventies or early eighties piece.

"Three Day Workshop" Last week at the Venice Art Center.

2011-11-15T05:41:00.000-08:00

This ended up being a great day at Spanish Point in Osprey Fl......although it started a little chilly. Here the small group is taking a lunch break in the sun on this beautiful chilly morning. The weather was definitely on our side this day. If all outdoor events were like this, no one would stay indoors. Great group of friends. It was a very enjoyable workshop

This is a view of the Guptill house right on the bay. The workshop painters are lined up facing the water. An absolutely beautiful spot to paint and bring workshops.....I have painted here often and enjoyed it every time. You can turn in any direction, and there is a painting to be captured.

The rest of my small crew!

This is the first day demo at the Art Center of the live model. Thanks Susan for the this phone shot.

This is the quick demo of a large Oak tree in front of the Guptill House looking towards the bay.

Thanks to the participants/friends that always make this fun and worthwhile.

"Ringling "Landscape Demo" Plus a couple more hours Friday.

2011-11-07T16:07:00.000-08:00

"Fall Creek" 16x20 oil on linen

This is the same painting from the previous post .....with a couple more hours of studio work the following day. It can still use a tweak here and there, but as demos go, I do not dislike it as much as I could. When I`m totally finished with it to my satisfaction, I will let it sit for a bit, and then decide if it has what I wanted. Most of my demos never make it to a second day effort. I wipe out or paint over many demos.

"Today`s Demo in My Figure Painting Class at Ringling"

2011-11-03T16:45:00.000-07:00

My students in my figure painting class at Ringling College of Art and Design requested that I do a landscape demo today. I was not able to complete it, but this 16x20 oil on linen might be worth another hour or so.....to see if it can be saved. The class was a fun one for me, with a lot of relaxed chatter about this and that and things that have nothing to do with painting........and also good questions about painting and illustration etc. I believe these days are as important as the daily regiment of painting......not that what I have to say is so profound, but a lot is revealed by the questions that students ask. I will post the finished painting when I finish it.

"Mountain Goat" Alla Prima (Direct painting) demo.

2011-10-30T07:05:00.000-07:00

Step 1.

Step 2.

Step 3.

Step 4.

Step 5.

Step 6.

The completed painting, "Mountain Goat" 12x16 oil on linen panel.

This painting was executed in an Alla Prima method of direct painting. I painted this one afternoon in basically one long sitting. I started with the focal point, the head of the animal, working outward from there. I was trying to go for the finish immediately. This is how I paint outdoors when time is of the essence. Plein air painting is a great exercise in training one to work quickly while using the immediacy of the moment to ones advantage. Although this is a studio study, it hopefully has enough spontaneity, and freshness to keep it interesting, while still describing the form with some suggested detail.

"New paintings from the studio"

2011-10-16T08:17:00.000-07:00

"Saturday Afternoon Nap" 8x12 oil on panel

This a quick little study of my beautiful granddaughter napping on the couch. I took some good reference shots of this, so it might just translate into something large. We`ll see how that goes. I like the the look of immediacy in this little sketch.

"A Mountain Goat" 12x16 oil on linen

Except for the horse subjects that I paint, I do not paint wildlife on a regular basis. I do like doing wildlife, but the subject is not readily accessibly to me, except for the tropical birds I see locally. This guy perched on rocks looks like he is surveying his territory. I`m sure with the exception of Mountain lions, he is king of the hill.

"The Old Red Barn" 9x12 oil on linen panel

This little 9x12 painting is an afternoon effort in my studio from reference taken on a painting trip a couple of years ago. I like to revisit old reference. Occasionally, a fresh eye on something that I might have been passed over is good. Most of the time there was good reason for passing over it. I think in this case, for myself, this was a fun little study.

"Scribbling in the Margins"

2011-10-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

The concept of sketch books was introduced to me in College. Prior to that, all my scribbling, drawings, doodles and sketches were done in the margins of my class notes, and on a freezer paper that my parents used to wrap meat for the old coffin style lift top freezer. The paper was a great drawing surface. It had one wax side, and the other was smooth.......but not slippery. My brother and I filled many of these with drawings that were eventually, and unfortunately all thrown out. It would be fun to have some of those old......and I mean old drawings now. My parents were working folks, and really never placed to much value on that sort of thing. I guess they thought it was just a silly way for children to amuse themselves.

I think sketch books have an important place in developing better draftsmanship and keeping the observation skills honed. Most artist, including myself, do not draw, or use the sketchbook as much as they did in school, or at other times in their careers. An artist is of course, always drawing when painting, but the pure drawing process is sometimes neglected. One can easily ignore this because of being consumed by other things that seem to be more important at the time. Like anything else, the more one practices, the more proficient one becomes at their craft. Same with drawing and painting. Thing that surprises me is how many students do not seem to carry a sketchbook. Many do, and usually they are filled with beautiful drawings, concepts for projects, etc. One would think that it would almost be something that every art school required.

I only have three or four sketchbooks lying around, and I draw in them occasionally when I am sitting in front of a TV program that is not demanding my complete attention. I pick up a magazine and draw images I see, or draw from memory. Sometimes, I sketch from the model in classes along with my students. These are always quick, almost gesture type sketches, that usually never have a high degree of finish. I thought it might be fun, and of possible interest to post a few of these pages.

"Artists Painting Eclectic Subject Matter, and the consequences".......if any!

2011-09-28T08:22:00.000-07:00

I have had several conversations recently with artists friends and students about painters, like myself, who paint an array of subject matter. I find it interesting that some artists are drawn to a varied, and very eclectic subject matter, while others seem perfectly satisfied to paint only one subject again and again.

I know the consequences of not sticking to one thing that an audience can identify an artist with, can possibly make it difficult to become known broadly for painting only one subject. I personally feel that the price one pays is certainly worth it......to me personally. Of course, I can only speak for myself when it comes to this matter. It would be maddening for me to have to get up every day, and know that the only thing one could paint was a subject that one was known for doing, and demanded by one's gallery representation, or collectors........no matter how much the artist enjoyed doing that particular subject. I guess if I were at a different time in my career, and had larger financial commitments than I presently have, my thinking on this might possibly be different.......maybe! There will always be those who want to categorize artists by the subjects they paint. Unfortunately, to a great degree, the fine art market is subject driven. I still believe and hope that good painting is appreciated by those who recognize it, no matter what the subject is.

I think many artists paint what they are comfortable painting. Most do not go out of their comfort zone regularly. Stepping out of that comfort area is something I like, and wish I were even bolder when it comes to trying new things. I like to think that I do to some extent, but it is a relative thing. One of my favorite contemporary painters, Quang Ho, is a great example. He is a great painter, and also a fearless experimenter. He not only paints a varied subject, but he takes it further by continuing to experiment with his work, as it relates ot paint application and things of that nature. He successfully does this while remaining a traditional, representational painter. I hope that I never lose that desire to shake it up every now and then. This is my main reason for not painting only one subject. I think by being interested in a variety of subjects, it possibly keeps one fresh and keeps one from relying to much on tried and proven solutions. To some degree, one must do what they know will get the job done, but one does not want it to become familiar to the point of it being a formula.

The collection of paintings in the shot of my studio shown above, shows a variety of painting subjects.....some in frames, some not totally complete, but I think it represents what I am suggesting. The "Smoked Mullet" painting to the right is one of these "Other Subjects". It is almost complete. I have never painted this type of painting subject before, and I'm not sure how it will be recieved. It interested me, so I painted it. I still think it is an interesting subject, and I might explore it further. Whether or not it is a great painting is not the question. The process of getting it on canvas, and out of your system is sometimes the answer to the question. The process of painting, for me, is every bit as important as seeing the finished product. Many times it feels like it is a wasted effort, but I have always felt that something is gained, or learned with every painting session........if the artist is paying attention, and not just operating on auto pilot.

I think that temperament and personality has as much to do with this as it does with the style of painting artists choose to use to express themselves. I guess that is a related topic for another time.

"Studio Palette Setup and Brushes"

2011-09-06T06:58:00.000-07:00

Someone requested that I post my studio palette setup, which is the same arrangement that I use whether I am inside, or outdoors on location. This is an open palette, even though I do not use all of these colors, I always put them out. My use of color is much more limited. I have always used this palette, and have a degree of comfort with it. I do occasionally introduce new colors, or experiment with a color that is not part of my tradional palette.

Mediums are another thing that I do experiment with somewhat, but always seem to return to the Ralph Mayer's formula of (one part stand oil, one part damar and five parts oderless mineral spirits). That is my go to medium if am in doubt, but I do like to shake it up every now and then by trying something different. Usually the result is not decernable from one to the other. It satisfies my urges to step outside of that comfort zone. The solvent or brush cleaner during my painting process is oderless mineral spirits ( Gamsol, or Turpenoid).

I use bristle and sable/mongoose brushes of all sizes. One has to experiment and play around with brushes to find what they are comfortable with, and what will make the statement they are intending to make. Some artists use only bristles to apply oil, and that is fine. I feel that for me personally, since introducing soft brushes some years ago, I found that contrary to some popular belief, one can doposite as much or possibly more paint with one of the sable/mongoose type brushes as they can with the Bristle brushes. Again this has to be a personal choice. No one can make that choice for someone else.

My palette is laid out from left to right as follows: Titanium White, Cad Yellow Pale, Cad Yellow or Cad Yellow medium, Cad Yellow Deep, Yellow Ochre, Raw Sienna, Cad Red, Permanent Alixarin Crimson, Terra Rosa and or Indian Red, Burnt Sienna, Cobalt Blue, Ultramarine Blue Deep, Cerulean Blue (optional or sometimes), Viridian, Paynes Grey.

This is the way I set things up for myself. It is not the only way, or necessarily the best way. There are many ways to achieve the same result. You might want to try it and possibly tweak it to suit yourself. Anyway, there it is and hopefully it with be of help, and useful to someone.

"Big Boy" and "Big Birch", Small studies with big names.

2011-09-05T07:40:00.000-07:00

This is "Big Boy", a carriage horse that I saw this summer on my Maine trip. This is small head study. I did a small painting of the horse and carriage, but I think this might be worth attempting a large head portrait of this big guy. He has a great looking head.

"Big Birch" is a place in one of the many Maine parks near the coast. If one continued walking through these trees, one would end up in the Atlantic Ocean.

Ringling Painting Class demos-Thursday Sept 1st

2011-09-03T07:17:00.000-07:00

I tried counting the visible brushstrokes in this head demo, and I lost count somewhere over a hundred. It would be interesting to intentionally see how few brush strokes it might take to do a comprehensive head study. That was not my intention here. That might be worth attempting some time.

These two 12x16 demos were done in my two and half hour Figure painting class at Ringling College of Art and Design Last Thursday. The exercise was to show a couple of different approaches to achieving the same result, by beginning in a different way. These are very quick, with probably more talking than painting. These are certainly not complete, but posted because they might be of interest to someone.

"Street Weaver", Makes the BoldBrush painting competition`s FAV 15%.

2011-08-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

Step 1.

The beginnging and sometimes the most important stage. A bad start, wrong placement, inaccurate drawing, etc. can color the whole effort negatively from the start. So, I`m trying not to make to many big mistakes at the beginning.

Detail of 1.

Step 2.
The figure and some of the environment around starts to appear. This is direct painting. I`m trying to have as few adjustments to make as possible later.

Step 3.

When working in this manner, where one finishes one area, and moves on to other parts of the painting, the whole composition must still be kept in mind. One can`t paint the entire painting at once. When you place a piece of paint down, at that moment you are making a judgement based on what is next to it, and not necessarily something in a distant part of the painting. One must step back then, and judge the overall. Then, other adjustments might have to be made.

Step 4.
Nearing the finish. At this point, it is a matter of making little value and temperature adjustments. Hopefully at this stage, shapes do not have to be changed dramatically.

Step 5.Finished Painting

"Street Weaver" 12x16 oil on linen. This is a smaller and slightly different painting based on another larger 20x20, "The Basket Weaver". I am pleased that this painting got some popular votes. It is always nice, and encouraging to be recognized in a group of good work. I think the most useful thing about shows and competitions is that even though a top award isn`t garnished, it does validate ones effort, and it is always fun to compete.

Two new Studio paintings

2011-08-24T09:59:00.000-07:00

"The Herd" 6x9 oil on linen panel.

This small painting was painted in a direct alla prima method completed in one morning. Although this painting was painted in the studio from reference, the intent here was to try and achieve the spontaneous immediacy of a location painting.

"Moonlit Creek" 12x16 oil on linen panel

This is a Texas creek near Fredericksburg. I painted a larger version of this same location with a couple of horses crossing near the Tin Star Ranch. I can`t wait until my next trip to this area. It will be interesting to see the change, if any. The time of day was late and low light. The beauty of this kind of subject is it looks totally different in different light situations.

"On the Easel- a work in progress"

2011-08-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

This landscape with horses is 22x28 oil on linen, and is a work in progress. In this first stage, I debated whether or not to use more than one animal in this scene. As one can see, at this stage it is easy to add or take away.

I felt the two figures in the middle ground of the painting added something that was needed to break up that long run accross the middle of the painting. I am hoping that was the right choice. If not, they can always be taken out.

Here, all of my big shapes have been chosen and probably will not change much. Just need to build up paint and correct values and adjust temperature a bit.

Nearing the Finish. Just need to tweak here and there. Will post the finish later. Need to let it sit for a while and look at it with a fresh eye later.

"My recent Plein Air Easton Painting Event Experience"

2011-08-07T08:04:00.000-07:00

This is the beginning of a painting I did of the Sculpture in front of the Armory, on the corner of Harrison and South St. in Easton Maryland. This was probably the hottest day of all the extremely hot weather we all experienced. The heat was the only negative thing about the total event. There were over fifty artists invited to participate, and the field was so strong, that I feel fortunate to have gotten the opportunity to paint in this event. I met artists that I respect and have known of, but never met, so I have many new artists friends.

Here, I have developed the painting a bit more, while being thankful for my umbrella. It didn`t help much with the heat, but it did protect me from the sun.

This is near completion. Looking forward to some kind of air conditioning at this point.

This is my View from Perry Cabin Inn looking towards the Maritime Museum.

This is the spot I chose to paint the Produce stand on the way to Oxford. This was a neat little place to paint, and the produce stand owner, Mr. Eason was a heck of a nice guy. Many of the artists painted at this location. He had a field of sunflowers, that I considered painting, but was a bit overwhelmed by the thought of it. I think on this particular day, I made the right choice for me.

This is the beginning of "Eason's Produce stand".

Nearing the finish! Another hot day!

Painting the Grain Silos in Easton!

Begining of a painting of two great looking old barns in Oxford. I was in the shade on this one, and although it was hot, I was not uncomfortable on this day.

Nearing finish!

This is a location that I really liked. I wish I had spent more time there. I painted this little scene one morning at the Maritime Museum. There is certainly a wealth of material to paint there if one likes water and boats etc.

Here is a closer shot of the Painting.

This is an old rusty hulled boat at the draw bridge entrance to Tilghman Island.

My effort at another great spot called Cutts and Casts. Lot of boats water and interesting old buildings inside and out. I liked this place a lot, but many of the vantage points are on narrow docks and percarious spots. Part of the outdoor painting experience.

Here I am painting the Crape Myrtles in the Museum garden in Easton. The garden was full of painters that day.

A beautiful morning on the way to Oxford. This is along side of the road by a fenced in pasture that had a herd of Belted Galloway cattle, and also belted Goats that had the same markings of the cattle. Never seen that before.

Here one can see the way these cattle are marked. I have seen these cattle in Maine also.

This was Quick Draw Day, and my main concern was to position myself in shade. It was an eventful day with tons of people coming out, despite the uncomfortable weather, to support the Plein air Easton annual paint out.

Someone felt this was photo worthy.

Another great spot to paint is the Yacht Club in Oxford.

"Step by step Demo of Lula-Belle and the Preacher Fisherman"

2011-07-10T10:29:00.000-07:00

Step.1

Step.2

Step.3

Step. 4

Step.5

The finished painting.

"Lula-Belle and the Preacher Fisherman"

24x18 oil on stretched linen.

"The Oriental Silk Robe" 20x16 oil on linen

2011-07-10T10:16:00.000-07:00

This is a painting I did a couple of years ago of a model that sat for me in my studio. This was a study that was done in a couple of hours. I intended to do an even larger piece later, but put it aside and pretty much forgot about it. I was rearranging things in the studio and came accross it, and decided that I didn`t hate it as much as I thought orignally. Of course, now I no longer have access to the live model, and would have to rely totally on digital reference and this sketch for any future paintings.

"Just Off of the Easel 1", Three New paintings.

2011-06-20T11:15:00.000-07:00

"Lula-Belle and the Preacher Fisherman" 24x18 oil on linen.

This painting is going to RSHanna Gallery in Fredericksburg, Texas. http://www.rshannagallery.com/

This painting and the Paintings below were all painted since returning from the "Forgotten Coast Plein Air Paint out in St. Joe Florida.

"The Street Weaver" 12x16 oil on linen.

This little painting is another version of a somewhat larger piece called, "The Basket Weaver", a 20x20 painting. I will post a step by step demo of this painting later.

"Crossing near the Tin Star" 18x24 oil on linen.

This is a painting of this great little creek near the Tin Star ranch just outside of Fredericksburg, Texas. I hope to do several paintings based on that location. Rocks, water and horses.....makes me a happy painter.

"Estuary Shores" and "East Point Relic" paintings from the 2011 Forgotten Coast Plein Air PaintOut

2011-05-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

This shoreline behind the Estuary seemed untouched by humans. The driftwood undisturbed as if it had just been washed up by a tide. This was a really pleasant three hours. The weather was just about perfect.

The painting is moving along, and I`m resisting the temptation to lengthen shadows!

Here, I am putting the finishing strokes on "Estuary shores" 12x16 oil on linen panel. I was reasonably happy with this effort, and ultimately presented it to my host. Thanks to all the generous host who put the artists up and make this invitational event a destination event to look forward to.

Boats are everywhere in this area. A great place to paint if you like this subject. This one is about as beat up as they come. I think it has been at the waters edge for at least a decade!

I still find something beautiful about these old weathered things.

"East Point Relic" 12x16 oil on linen, near completion.

"The 2011 Forgotten Coast Paintout Event"-These are some shots of the painting locations, and paintings being painted.

2011-05-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

This is the beginning of "Sunday Afternoon", a little 9x12 study at Scipio Creek in Apalachicola Florida.

This is the finished painting still on the easel. This was a fun little painting to do. It was a shady comfortable spot to spend an afternoon painting while Marilyn read the latest best seller.

The location here is Carrabelle, Florida. I started this 12x16 early and as one can see the shadows on the boat changed in the photo below.

This photo does not reveal the difficulty I was experiencing with bugs that morning. These little flys were giving me big problems. Thankfully a breeze came through and problem solved.

Happy to be done with this one. Things could have been worst.

This is the beginning of an early sunrise painting in east point.

A Glorious fleeting sky to paint!

This is near the finish.

Simmons Bayou on the way to Cape San Blas. A 9x12 Study.

"Resting but Ready" 6x9 painted at East Point Fl.

First day, one of my three demo days. This one at River Front in Apalachicola.

"The Forgotten Coast Paint Out Event" 2011-Student Day

2011-05-28T11:10:00.000-07:00

This is one of the fun days at the Forgotten Coast Paint out. Interacting and instructing students, some who have never painted before.

Reid, a really nice kid, was my challenge for the day.

They were provided with acrylics instead of oils, which made it a bit difficult, but I think he got through it OK, considering it was his first effort at painting ever.

Nice Job, Reid!

"The Red Hat" 9x6 oil on panel, Five step demo.

2011-05-10T16:07:00.001-07:00

Step 1.

A few vine charcoal marks to begin, and then some average washes to indicate where the figure is to be placed. This start may seem to lack precise painting, but the size of the shapes are close enough to give me confidence to do some direct painting in the next stage.

Step 2.

Here I am already trying to make near finish passages. They will obivously need some value and shape adjustments but they are close enough to continue.
Step 3.
This step finds me reasonably happy with the overall and most of the white panel is covered with paint, allowing me to judge the values better. The white contrast makes everything look darker that it actually is. So far so good.

Step 4.

Step four is refining shapes, checking values, and making sure the temperature of color is correct. Softening a few edges and sharpening a few. Very near finish.

Step 5. Finished Painting

"The Red Hat" 9x6 oil on panel.

This is the little painting that was featured in the previous blog post.

"The Red Hat" Portrait Society of America conference donation.

2011-05-08T12:18:00.000-07:00

"The Red Hat", 9x6 inches, oil on panel was my donation to the Portrait Society of America Conference in Atlanta. I have just been made aware that is was purchased by a painter whose work I respect and admire, Ryan Brown. I`m sure it will be in good company. Thanks Ryan!

"The Basket Weaver" A Studio Painting Demonstration

2011-05-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

Step 1.

This is the beginning.....the placement of the focal point.

Hopefully I made the right choice early on. We`ll see how it goes.

Step 2.

Here I am just framing her head with something that I can judge sizes and values more correctly. If I can get a reasonable start, it will lessen my later adjustments.

Step 3.
The background is starting to work. I am not unhappy at this point.
I do not want to get caught up in over rendering of things. My hope is to suggest
and indicate objects, and hopefully have them look like what they are because of the accuracy of shapes.
Detail

Step 4.

I`m working my way to the foreground. This is pretty much a direct type of painting, so there is no preliminary drawing. This is not necessarily the best way, or the only way that I approach a painting, but it is fun to test your observation skills as they relate to shapes and value. There are always, it seems, some adjustments that must be made.

Step 5.

Things are progressing along without any major disappointments. Hope I have not spoken to quickly. I just have to indicate a suggestion of many baskets. This painting is about the light and how it effects the way the subject looks on a very sunny day.

Step 6.

This painting "The Basket Weaver" 20x20 oil on stretched linen is very near finish. I only need to finish a couple of baskets.

Step 7.

This painting is for all intents and purposes finished. I will make a few adjustments....nothing major at this point, then sign it and put her in frame. I think I will let it sit for a few days. Then take another look. I will post the finished painting later.

"2011 Paint the Town"

2011-04-15T17:13:00.000-07:00

My Paintings for "Paint the Town" were all painted in the great little fishing Village of Cortez. This is the beginning of the second of the three paintings I completed for this year`s event.

This was the first day of painting. I was only able to paint two days. I started this as my second painting on the first day and had to leave before it was completed. I usually finish these type of field studies in one sitting......especially a 9x12 like this one.

The painting was coming along reasonably well at this point, and I was having fun.

I returned to it the next day and completed it quickly. My time spent on this piece was about two and a half hours total. I felt it was going well enough to come back to this location and finish it. I`m glad that I did, because the painting was awarded a first place in the show. I was totally surprised, but very happy to be recognized in a group of wonderful artists. Every year there are some great paintings in this event.

This is a shot of the painting I took in the field on location.

All participating artists paintings are being exhibited at Art Center Manatee, 209 Ninth St. W Bradenton, Florida. 34205

http://www.artcentermanatee.org/

http://www.spraa.com/

Here is the Painting framed in the show. I`m sorry I had to miss the opening due to an unavoidable circumstance. It figures that would be the night I win a prize.

This was the first painting I tackled on the first day of the Paint out. It is an old derelict boat that has stuff growing all over it. I like old rusty, beat up, and weathered things like this.

We should have had nose clips, or something to protect Marilyn and I from the strong fish industry smell. It was pretty rough at this location.

This is the finished painting, 9 x 15 oil on linen panel.

Here is my third location. This is the little bridge over "Fish Preserve Creek"

I had good shade from a large umbrella.....thankfully. It was brutal that day. The heat was like mid summer. I thought we were supposed to get some spring weather one of these years.

My interest in this location was about the color and reflections in the shallow water.

This painting has very little rendered detail.

Putting the finishing strokes on a 16x12 oil on linen "Fish Preserve Creek"

"Sarasota Winter Salon"

2011-03-28T09:50:00.000-07:00

"Dockside" 14x11 oil on linen

This is one of the paintings that was recently included in the M Gallery Winter Salon in Sarasota Fl. Information inquiries to cwagner@mgalleryoffineart.com . This painting was a plein air painting done at one of the many boat docks in Maine.

"The Buoy Shed" 9x12 oil on linen

Another on location painting at Willard beach Me. This is the first time this little painting has been in an exhibit.

"Sister Shrimpers" 9x12 oil on linen Plein Air study.

"The old Mattress Factory" 12x16 oil on linen This painting was painted in last years Paint the town event in St. Petersburg Fl.

"Untitled" 12x16 oil on linen. This painting was painted as a step by step demo. http://www.mgalleryoffineart.com/

"On the Easel"

2011-03-07T09:17:00.000-08:00

"Winter Creek"

16x12 oil on linen is a new painting just off the easel.

This painting is from a location near the Tin Star Ranch just

few miles from Fredericksburg Texas.

"Scottsdale Salon of Fine Art 2011"

2011-03-07T08:57:00.000-08:00

"Morning Star" 16x20 oil on linen will be included in the

2011 Scottsdale Salon of Fine Art Exhibition.

April 21, 2011 7-9 PM Salon Preview (during Artwalk)

April 22, 2011 6-9 PM Salon Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony.
http://www.scottsdalesalonoffineart.com/

"Salon International 2011"

2011-03-07T08:37:00.000-08:00

"In For The Night", 16x20 oil on linen will be included in the

2011 Salon International Exhibit.

April 1, 2011 6-9 PM Awards Banquet RSVP

April 2, 2011 Exhibit Opening and Reception Open House 10 AM-5PM

& Reception 5-8 PM

https://imcm.c2.hostexcellence.com/si/acceptedentries.asp

"Fisherman`s Dock", 16x20 oil on linen, will also be included in the

"Salon International Exhibit".

"2011 Third on Canvas in Naples Florida"

2011-02-23T07:21:00.001-08:00

Two beautiful days on third in Naples flordia. I created two paintings that included a figure from start to finish each day. The streets were full of curious people enjoying the great weather, stores, food , etc. Met some nice folks.

This is the painting start on my first day at Gattle`s Plaza. I finished this on Monday and painted another one Tuesday. I believe there were forty artists invited to participate in this.
http://www.thirdstreetsouth.com/thirdoncanvas.html

This is the begining of the painting that I painted on the second day,Tuesday, in Naples. This painting ended up in the Auction. I`m amazed at the number of folks that come out for this street event. It was a fund raiser for the Children`s Hospital this year, so it was definately a worthwhile effort. This was my second year in "Third on Canvas".

"Studio Clutter"

2011-01-26T12:10:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, my studio is becoming very cluttered with paintings and frames.....but fortunately on the otherhand, I am being somewhat productive and with upcoming shows and events.....I guess that's a good thing. In these two shots, all of these are in different stages of finish. Some are complete, and some need more, and the ones that are deemed worthy in my mind, are destined for one show or another. So far, the numbers are good.....just hope the paintings will be as well!

It`s nice to be able to look at paintings in frames as they are being painted, if one has that luxury. Many of these that are in frames are not finished, but sometimes if they really look good at certain stages (in the frame) it can keep me from overworking a piece. This is certainly not a rule, and doesn`t always work.

The Portrait Society of America 2011 Members Competition First Place and Honorable Mention awards.

2011-01-26T10:04:00.000-08:00

"Summer Afternoon" was awarded First Place in the Landscape with Figure category of The Portrait Society of America`s Members Competition. I am delighted to be recognized in such a strong field of work. Check it out at, http://www.portraitsociety.org/ .

"Roger" also recieves an honorable mention award in the Non-commissioned category of The Portrait Society of America`s Members Competition.

"In For The Night"- six step demo.

2011-01-01T09:48:00.000-08:00

Step 1.

Step 2.

Step 3.

Step 4.

Step 5.

Detail

Step 6. Finished painting

This is a 16x20 oil on linen, "In For The Night". This painting for me, is about the late afternoon light on the boat, and the reflections in the water. That along with what I think is a beautiful shape of this particular work boat. This is another Maine painting. Boats, water and light are some of my favorite things to try and capture in paint. This piece will hopefully look better when it is varnished and the uneven shine of the oxidation process is eliminated. I always prefer to shoot the work after it is totally tried. This painting is still very wet.

"March 4th 2011, My Solo Exhibition opening at the M Gallery in Charleston, SC."

2010-12-23T09:57:00.000-08:00

I have numerous paintings in different stages of completion. I know it is still realitively early, but I will post images that will be included in the show as they become available, or finished to my satisfaction.

"On the Easel"

2010-11-28T14:53:00.001-08:00

This painting is a 24x30 and is in the process of being painted, so I have not even considered a title for it yet. I`m doing paintings that will hopefully turn out well enough to be included in my March 2011 show at the M Gallery. So far, I have not had the temptation to rub this one out. We`ll see!

This painting started out as a study for a possible large multi figure composition. I like the single figure better now that I have had some time with it. I think I will bring it to finish.....which should not require a great amount of work. I think I`m almost there. This is 20x16 oil on linen.

Dancer Detail # one

Dancer Detail #2

I will post paintings in progress that are on the easel as they become available for those interested.

"Small paintings for Upcoming Miniature Shows"

2010-10-23T14:40:00.000-07:00

"The Wild Side of the Island" 9x12 oil on linen. This is a study of the rugged side of Monhegan Island. It is interesting how one side of the Island is a quiet cove type of setting and terrain, and the other side is so extreme and has vertical cliffs. I like both.

"The Curious One" 6x9 inches oil on linen panel. This very small painting is a study, and an attempt to describe the light. The small group of horses are grazing and basked in that band of warm light crossing the pasture. Thankfully the one mare looked back and solved my problem with title for this little painting.

"Frisky Fillies" 6x9 oil on linen. Frisky Fillies is about three horses in an early morning romp after being stabled over night. They obviously have no sense of time, and it probably felt to them as though they had been couped up in a stable forever. Fun to watch them acting up!

"Doing what they do best"

2010-09-28T10:54:00.000-07:00

"Doing what they do best" 6x9 oil on linen panel

This is another small miniature, 6x9 inches. It is really a study for a larger painting, but I am doing small pieces at the moment for upcoming mini shows. This is what flight animals do best....run.....hence, the proposed title for this painting, unless I come up with something better. This is quite small for me, and the surface is quite rough for something this size, but I do like the proportion of this.....could translate into a bigger version.

This image is just to show one of many ways to beginning a painting like this, that deals with multiple figures.

"Kicking it up"

2010-09-27T08:57:00.000-07:00

"Kicking it up" 9x12 oil on linen

I am doing several small paintings as possibilities for two miniature shows that will be coming up soon. This is the first of several I plan to paint. My plan is to do more than I actually will need, so that I can be more selective about what I choose to send.

"Kicking it up" Possible frame for this painting.

"The Sidewalk to nowhere"

2010-09-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

This has little to do with painting I know, but thought I would post it in place of paintings that might have been created, and posted during this grueling project. This is the begining of this outside project that seemed to never end, and has been responsible for keeping me out of the studio for some time. Here I am preparing to start pouring the second section of concrete. You can see my trusty Red Husky mixer standing at the ready.

This demonstrates how to put one of these together piece by piece, or section.

This is looking from the the house towards the second driveway on the edge of my property. Still needs some plants and pot accessories to jazz it up a bit.

This is the view from the nowhere driveway, looking back to the house. It is fulfilling to accomplish a project like this with my expert helper, and adviser, Marilyn. She knows as much or more about this stuff than I do. The heat of the summer really kept it from being much fun. The heat was brutal. We have been playing with this since we returned from Maine.....maybe getting a bit to old for this kind of stuff. Think it may be easier in cooler weather. The winter always seems to busy for big projects like this. Must get a better schedule. Anyway, it is done!.....so back to the studio, and hopfully something good will happen. If it does,

I`ll will post it soon.

"On the Easel"

2010-09-05T14:30:00.000-07:00

This is a new piece that I am working on. It very near completion. Need to just look at it a bit more, and tweak a few things. I`m planning to frame it in a black frame as shown below.

I haven`t even thought of a title for this painting. That should be interesting. Often the most difficult part of the process.

This is the type of frame I thought might look OK on this piece.

"A Rose for Amy" 12x9 study oil on linen panel. This is a small studio study. Some version of this might translate into a larger painting. We`ll see how that works out. If I actually do one, I will post it later. I`m starting some new paintings, so I`ll be posting some new images soon.

"The Shell Seekers"

2010-08-25T17:16:00.000-07:00

"The Shell Seekers" 18x24 oil on linen.

This is the first decent shot of this painting that I have been able to get. I had some really lousy images from a previous camera, that made the painting look worst than it actually is. This is a studio painting I painted very quickly over a period of time.

Detail #1

Detail #2

"The Morning Star"

2010-08-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

"The Morning Star" 16x20 oil on linen

This is a new painting I just completed. Again, it is an old rusty bucket. Maybe its time to do a few sail boats. If I lived in the Old Port area, I would probably make a nuisance of myself, and hang out, and get in the way of actual work.

"Troubled Waters Invitational Art show to celebrate the recovery of the Gulf of Mexico"

2010-08-17T06:14:00.000-07:00

"Marsh Reflections" 12x16 oil on linen panel

Two of these paintings will be part of the Invitational show, beginning at this month`s 3rd Friday Towles Court Art Walk, August 20, 6-10pm. The opening and month-long invitational show will be held in Jon Greeley studio/gallery, at 1938 Adams Lane #207, Sarasota, Fl.

Original works of art will celebrate the recovery of the Gulf of Mexico from this summer`s tragic oil spill. A portion of the sales from the art, food and T-shirts will support the ongoing efforts to relieve the effects of the oil spill. The agency benefiting from this show will be announced at the opening, which will also feature Cajun/Creole food and refreshments....donations will be encouraged.

Detail of "Marsh Reflections"

"Young Heron" 15x12 oil linen panel

"Two Amigos" 15x9 oil on linen panel

"Harbor Study" 12x16 oil on linen panel

"A Summer Afternoon", A small figure study for a larger composition.

2010-07-09T12:12:00.000-07:00

Step 1.

Step 2.

Step 3.

Step 4.

The finished figure study "A Summer Afternoon" 12x9 oil on linen panel, is an exploratory study for a larger composition. I wanted to see if these figures might look appropriate in this scene. The figure reference is actually from another location, and the larger painting will be a different format (not vertical). The lighting is similar, so I think it might work. I don`t always do studies to work out potential problems in paintings. Generally, I just jump in, but sometimes it is fun to get a small piece done, as long as it is quick, and does not use up all my juice.

"2010 Summer Trip to Maine"

2010-07-05T10:04:00.000-07:00

"Summer Farm" 6x9 oil on linen.

Detail of "Summer Farm".

Here, I am painting at Bidderford Pool, one of the many areas we visited during our several weeks in Maine. I am painting one of the many pristine marshes that Maine has to offer.
The wealth of imagery is endless. I wish the winters weren`t so harsh.

This little painting was about two and a half hours of pure enjoyment. Not that the painting is so wonderful, but the experience was worth the trip to Maine. Of all the people there to enjoy the weather, water and beatiful day, I was the only painter in sight.....imagine that.

Detail of "Kettle Cove"

This was one of my favorite days on this trip. The conditions, and the great spot to set up and paint were awesome. Beyond my capacity to describe. A great day in Maine.

We had an absolutely perfect day at Kettle Cove Maine. Marilyn is enjoying the great weather, and a good book while I entertain myself with trying to capture the moment. Good luck with that.

This is the beginning of the on location study of the Old Port Dock area. I really like painting the old beat up, used, weathered by weather and time buildings and docks in the Old Port section of Portand Me.

Here, I am finishing up my field sketch of the downtown Old Port dock area.

Finished study of the "Old Port Dock" 12x16 oil on linen panel

"Fort Williams Ocean study" 6x9 oil on linen panel

" Monhegan Flowers" 9x12 study, oil on linen.

"Pirates, Petticoats and Puffy Sleeves" - New York Society of Illustrators.

2010-07-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

On our recent summer trip to Maine, we went into New York city for a day trip. I had not been in the city in fifteen years. It was a thrill to be back in the city that has so much energy. You can feel it the minute you get off the train. We visited the Society of Illustrators, a great organization that I was a twenty three year member of. I was pleasantly surprised to see that it had not changed a bit. We visited on a Monday, so the club was closed......which was great, because we had the place to ourselves.... sort of! There were two exhibitions on display, one in the main gallery, and the "Pirates, Petticoats and Puffy Sleeves" exhibition. All in all, it was a great day in the city.

Here is a shot of the Bar at the New York Society of Illustrators. The painting over the Bar is the great Norman Rockwell`s Stagecoach painting. A masterpiece!

One twenty eight east sixty third street. I have some great memories of good times spent in this great establishment that has such a rich history of illustration art. I was proud to be a twenty three year member of this club.

Some of the paintings and drawings on display at the Society in the dining area.

More of the paintings in the dining room area show.

This piece has really grabbed Marilyn`s attention. Must have been a winner.

Portrait of "Roger" makes FAV 15% Finalist in BoldBrush painting competition sponsored by FinArtStudioOnline, May 2010.

2010-06-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

"Roger" 12x9 oil on linen

http://canvoo.com/boldbrush/badge/9981

Happy to have this piece in the FAV 15% . Some really good paintings in May 2010. Just nice to hang in there with all these talented artist. Congrats to all the awards winners and finalist.

"Signature Member of the American Society of Marine Artists"

2010-06-10T17:11:00.000-07:00

" Detail"

" Marine painting in Progress"

I would like to thank the American Society of Marine Artists for the honor, and distinction of being given Signature Membership status. I feel lucky to be included in a list of talented artists who love, and choose to paint this subject in a realistic, representational manner. This is certainly one of the organizations, as it relates to painting, that I hold in high regard. Thanks for this distinction.

"The Richard Schmid Fine Art Auction-Sept 5th, 2010"

2010-06-01T10:47:00.000-07:00

The Richard Schmid Fine Art Live Auction is a few months away, but it is time to begin reminding folks about this annual event. I will post other announcements as it gets closer. My figure painting above will be offered for bidding in the live auction.

http://www.richardschmidauction.com/Hodges%20Soileau.html

"Florida`s Forgotten Coast - A Studio Painting"

2010-05-29T14:22:00.000-07:00

"The Working Lady" 16x20 oil on linen

I tried painting this rusty old bucket a couple of times when I was up in the Apalachicola area for the "Forgotten Coast" Plein air event, and for one reason or another, I never was able to even get started. One day, the wind was so strong and gusty, that it kept changing the direction of the boat that was tethered only on one end. The second time I tried to paint this great old workboat, some guy in a little canoe, attached a line to it and proceeded to move it just as I began my painting. I guess this was destined to be a studio effort. I wish I could have painted a field sketch to assist me with the studio painting, but my photo reference was adequate and recent enough to rely on some memory of what I saw that day in Eastpoint.

"Student Art Day - Florida`s Forgotten Coast Plein Air event"

2010-05-22T14:07:00.000-07:00

The Florida`s Forgotten Coast Event included a Student Art Day. On Wednesday May 12th, all of the artist participating in the event were assigned an art student to assist with their painting. The students were given a gift package with paints, canvas panels and brushes. It was a fun day, that included painting, then lunch with students and artists and community at the Gulf county Welcome center in Port St. Joe. This is my assigned student Sara, and I, as she begins her 8x10 field study.

Here Sara is well into her painting, and it is looking good. I let her use one of the two easels that I brought on the trip. In my little sketch on the right, I demonstrated a possible solution on how to start her painting. I thought she turned in one of the strongest pieces in the student show. There were some fine efforts by many young art students.

Looking on as Sara puts the final touches on her oil painting.

"Downtown Books" 16x12 oil on linen

This is a great looking little bookstore in downtown Apalach. My painting does not do it justice. I would like another shot at painting this in an afternoon light.

"Summer Camp" 12x16 oil on linen

This painting was painted in Carrabelle one really hot afternoon.

"Port St. Joe Bay" 12x13 oil on linen

This was another two and a half hour effort.

"A peaceful place" 9x12 oil on linen

This is another one of the small paintings I painted at a area called two-mile, near Apalachicola.
"Resting Place" 9x12 oil on linen

"Florida`s Forgotten Coast" Invitational Plein Air Event

2010-05-19T07:27:00.000-07:00

"The Old Apalach Marina" 11x14 oil on linen

These are just a few of the paintings I painted during the ten day event.

I will post more photos later.

Painting the "Old Apalach Marina"

Here, I am inside the old marina that is no longer in use, and the walkways around the old boat slips are a bit unsteady.....but I felt safe enough to paint for a couple of hours, hence the title of the painting, "No Trespassing".

"No Trespassing" 12x9 oil on linen

Painting the Old Laundry in Apalachicola

"The Old Laundry" 12x16 oil on linen

"Scipio Creek Workboats" 16x12 oil on linen

This is me painting an old boat on Scipio Creek

Great morning on Scipio Creek

"The Forgotten Coast" event was a lot of fun. I met many new talented artists, and new friends. We had a wealth of beautiful coastal scenes, and interesting small town locations to paint from. This was my first time participating, and it was a totally enjoyable experience. The local population is very supportive of the arts, and this event, and are extremely friendly. Port St. Joe, Apalachicola, Carrabelle, Eastpoint, and Mexico Beach are definately destinations for great plein air subjects.

"The Red Bucket" in progress.

2010-04-29T07:14:00.000-07:00

This is an earlier stage of "The Red Bucket". At this point, I had not decided whether or not to include the figure. Obviously, the painting would have a different title and feeling without the figure. I like that human element in landscapes. It is often difficult to paint this type of painting on location, so when moving figures are involved, I usually save them for studio paintings.

This is a studio painting that I am doing very quickly over a period of time, due to interruptions and distractions of semesters end, and preparing for upcoming activities, etc. I hope in the next few days to be able to find a couple hours to finish......not that there is any particular rush.

"Detail of the figure".

"Spring 2010 Demo Night at Ringling College of Art and Design"

2010-04-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

Demo #2

I spent the second half of my allotted time on this little 9x12 study.

Demo #1

I spent about half of my allotted three hours on this demo.

Last night was Demo night at Ringling. This has become a regular event, and hopefully will continue to be on the extra activities list for students. It is fun to particpate along with other instructors who perform their chosen demos at designated stations. It is nearing spring semester end, so for those student who could not make it, I`m posting my two demos. The instructor demos last three hours.....7 to 10 PM.

"Studies of Roger"

2010-04-19T06:20:00.000-07:00

After speaking to Roger at an event recently, he suggested that he might be shaving his great Mountain man like beard, so last week, I went over to his house, and did a head study of my friend in his back yard, and took some shots for a future portrait. He is a great guy and great character to paint.

The 2010 "Paint The Town" in St. Petersburg Fl.

2010-04-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

This is a shot from last night of me and my two paintings at the Morean Art Center opening of the "Paint the Town" plein air show in St Pete. The show was great and there were many excellent paintings done by some very talented artists. I was surprised and honored to receive a Second place award for "The Old Salt Creek Mattress Factory", and a merit award for "The Lady on the Bay". In the company of such painters, I consider myself very lucky, because there were many more award winners, than there were awards to be given.

My second painting for the paintout in St Pete. I found this old building in Salt Creek that seemed like a great subject to me, if I could make it interesting. I particularly like old structures that time has left it`s mark on. The truck obviously had not been moved in some time, because it was covered with a heavy layer of green pollen. By just being there, it somehow seemed to help the composition.

"The Old Salt Creek Mattress Factory" 12x16 oil on linen.

This was just over two hours of painting to beat the changing light. That of course is always the biggest challenge.....along with the furious wind.

This is my set up for this particular painting.

"Lady on the Bay", a painting of one of the many statues in North Straub Park.
This was a two hour and fifteen minute painting. I would have liked more time, but the light would not allow me to continue.

Here, I`m painting "The Lady on the bay" in North Straub Park.

"Some of my paintings on products in the Collier Collection on Zazzle.

2010-04-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

These are a few of the images of my paintings being used on products in the Collier Collection on Zazzle. http://www.zazzle.com/colliergraphica/gifts?cg=196760920755350385

"2010 Oil Painters of America National Exhibition"

2010-03-25T09:22:00.000-07:00

This painting will be exhibited in the Oil Painters of America National Exhibition hosted by the Legacy Gallery, in Scottsdale, AZ. The Show dates are: April 30 through May 31, 2010.

"Dream Catcher Earrings" Study

2010-03-24T11:09:00.000-07:00

This is a 12x16 study for a portrait I intend to paint at some point in the near future. I think the earrings are interesting and like the look of them on the model. They have a native American design feel to them. I hope she still has them.

" Morning class demo-yesterday"

2010-03-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

This is head study demo painted yesterday morning in class at Ringling College of Art and Design.

"Southern Atelier-Monday demo"

2010-03-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

This is my Monday workshop demo at the Southern Atelier in Sarasota Fl.

"Head Studies"

2010-03-22T16:04:00.001-07:00

"Chico" Study for the Bass player

"The Russian Model" Demo painted at the Southern Atelier, Sarasota Florida.

"Natasha" Demo head study painted in my workshop at the Southern Atelier, Sarasota, Florida.

"Amy" Demo night head study at Ringling.

Self Portrait 12x16 oil on linen

"Claudia" Demo night head study at Ringling

"Jess" Study of a young girl, 12x16 oil on linen

2005 Head Study of a young girl

"15th Anniversary Celebration" at Whistle Pik Gallery, May 7th 2010

2010-03-21T09:01:00.000-07:00

These are just two of my paintings that will be included in the 15th Anniversary Celebration at the Whistle Pik Gallery in Fredericksberg Texas in May. I will post more information later.

"Devilicious"

2010-03-20T11:00:00.001-07:00

A graphic designer friend of mine has a product line on Zazzle called The Collier Collection. He recently used three little head studies of demons I painted for another friend of mine, and created designs for posters and tee shirts. Check them out at http://www.zazzle.com/colliergraphica/gifts?cg=196295463974259006

"The Wild Flower Garden" Painting in Progress

2010-03-18T08:04:00.000-07:00

This first step is just an application of a thin wash to set the tone, or harmony of the painting, and also alows me to wipe out the area that I intend to place the figure in this composition.

In Step two, I start painting the head, which will be my observational reference for the size of everything in this painting. It is important to get this part reasonably accurate. I am not doing a portrait of her, but interpreting the reference.

In this step, I am working outward from the focal point, the head.

In this step, I am painting directly, and developing the figure as I go..... trying to put as accurate as possible pieces of paint to minimize the changes and adjustments that will have to be made later in the painting.

This is almost complete. Just need to adjust here and there, and apply a bit more paint finish a few spots that are a bit thin. The Gallery has seen the painting at this stage, and seem to be happy with it, so it is heading west to Texas for an anniversary show. I will post details later.

"Summer Shade"

2010-03-17T17:26:00.000-07:00

"Summer Shade" is for the most part complete. Just might adjust a few subtle things that would probably not be noticable, but might make me feel better about it. The gallery has seen it and seems to like it, so it`s headed for Texas.

"New Painting in Progress"

2010-03-12T08:40:00.000-08:00

This is a new painting that I am hoping to finish in a couple of days. I painted this much of it yesterday. I need to finish it so that I can get an image to the gallery for the promo. So far I am not unhappy with. I will post the finished piece later.