The Chalice

A few weeks ago I attended a one day workshop entitled "Artistic Breakthrough - taking your art to the next level." It seemed like a good idea, except that I had just completed the marine chart with the challenging small, acrylic paintings (see my last post) and felt like I needed a break from 'breakthrough/challenge.'

At that point, I was not quite sure what 'the next level' would be.

The workshop information invited us to use any medium. Hmmm, it would be good - and feel familiar - to reconnect with my watercolors or pastels. Since I regularly substitute in a watercolor class, I chose to spend this day with my somewhat neglected pastels.

We had lots of choices as to what we would paint that morning. It's been a long time since I used the pastels, so I decided to paint the still life set up as a warm-up exercise. The set up was a tarnished silver goblet... and a few other things. I am into simplifying, so I focused only on the goblet.

I had such a great time - the drawing just flowed! And then, I began to add the color. I love the pastels at this stage. Layers of color, changing and glowing...it was like magic for me.

I have tweaked it a bit since then - and continue to look at it from across the room. Recently, I stuck it in a gold frame and I love it. It's no longer just a goblet for me - it's a chalice.

"The Chalice"     9x12 pastel     $225  

Jimmy Buffett and Me

For years I have enjoyed listening to Jimmy Buffett - I love his music and his laid back style. It evokes wonderful memories of sailing trips in the Caribbean, warm breezes, a bit of rum...you get the idea.

So, when I was asked by Brad Fout, of LeHatchery Gallery in Easton to work with him on a special project involving Jimmy Buffett, I said "Yes!"

I went to talk to Brad to find out more about the project - LeHatchery is donating a framed marine chart that has Jimmy Buffett's signature on it to the Bryan Brothers Foundation for their annual auction. Brad told me that he has always loved my crabs (St Michaels Art League Banner Project - see examples in posts - Feb 1, 2016 & Feb 5, 2015) and asked if I would be willing to paint one on the chart. It sounded like a fun project.

We discussed other "Chesapeake Bay" things that might also be painted on the chart to enhance it. Now both of us are getting more excited about the possibilities.

Then I discovered that the chart paper was water resistant! Hmmm, I am a watercolor painter. Now, this is a challenge...I left with a strip of the paper from the bottom of the chart so that I could try out my watercolors.

Of course, they wouldn't work. After experimenting with acrylics, begging a friend to 'teach me to paint with oils,' and consulting other artists, I got down to work practicing...  I began with a gesso base (which I toned light blue) and then used acrylics - which seemed most like the watercolors I am used to.

I tried lots of different ideas and placed the figures around the chart in various places. Yesterday, I finally began painting on the actual chart and completed it!

Here are close ups of my paintings...

And of course, I know you want to see this...!

FYI - the auction is this coming Saturday, April 9th at the Oaks in Royal Oak. For more information about the event or to buy tickets, call 410-819-3780 or email info@shorekids.org.