Mary Paints

Beyond Painting

2012-01-30T09:18:00.000-08:00

there are many amazingly beautiful paintings for sure, but Nature is the artist that trumps it all. I saw this TED video - and want to share it with my art-loving readers. Breathtaking, awesome (in the 'old' sense!) . I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. http://www.youtube.com/v/xHkq1edcbk4

18 Budding Artists!

2012-01-28T16:39:00.000-08:00

Had a fabulous class today! Meet my students, below -- 18 budding artists filled the room with six more on the waiting list. Most have never ever painted; some have dabbled in one area or another, a couple painted a lifetime ago. Warms my heart to see all these accomplished people jumping into something so new... learning to create a spectrum of color, playing with paint, tackling new concepts. Now they are ready to really start painting what they love, be it abstract, landscape, figure, still life or....

Students - I'd love to see your 'homework' or whatever you paint next. Send me photos by email. Most importantly - KEEP PAINTING!

A tulip by any other name.....

2012-01-24T21:36:00.000-08:00

"Monte Carlo" acrylic 6x6

Who knew? Two little facts: Monte Carlo is also the name of a flower...and..it's a tulip. It was part of the bouquet with the parrot tulips. I'm going to be in an art festival later this spring and I will have both these small paintings as well as larger canvases.

BTW - when you look at this, if it looks pale , tilt your computer screen to see the contrast. The jpg came out pretty light. I'm giving up on my camera; most of the photos I took have stripes of white through them. And finally, thanks to you have liked me on Facebook.

Just a Little Parrot

2012-01-20T22:46:00.000-08:00


Parrot Tulip acrylic 6x6"

A couple entries ago I posted Two Parrots....this is a second painted from the same bouquet. Can you tell I love tulips?

One of my 2012 goals is to optimize my presence in the on-line media art world. Some of you saw that I recently joined Daily Paint Works, an on-line art gallery. I admit, it's hard to juggle-- time spent communicating on-line vs time painting in the studio (way more fun! :-)

To that end, I'd like to ask that if you enjoy this blog - or if you see a particular entry you like,please share it using by clicking on one of the social networking icons below (e.g. Facebook) Regardless, I love that you are keeping up with my entries. Always feel free to email me your questions or comment below. Thanks!

Painter's Tips: drying additives for oil paint medium

2012-01-15T15:20:00.000-08:00

I know I just posted but I want to respond to a question I received.

When one begins to paint in oils, you find your paintings stay wet a long while - making it hard to work with (the paints smears easily, especially if there is a lot of very fine detail) and you can't frame or mail them right away. One solution is to add a drying agent to your paint medium.

One tip: use a good medium to mix with your paint, for example: 1/2 linseed oil or stand oil and 1/2 gamesol or other paint thinner. (I like gamesol because it's almost odorless; even more so than some that claim to be but there are other options). The gamesol or thinner helps the oil paint dry more quickly; the linseed oil will give it a luscious creamy flow as you apply it. And your paint goes further. Remember to read the labels, follow safety warnings regarding toxicity etc.

To further hasten drying time, there are other products (liquin, cobalt drier etc.). These products should be used very sparingly. If you use too much drier additive, the top layer of the paint will dry quickly, but the underneath layer may still be wet for awhile. This can lead to crackling of the top layer and ruin your work. This is not always the case; it depends a lot on how thick you are applying your paint and how much drying product you are using.

There are dozens of mediums to use with your oil paint (mix your own or pre-mixed). And many artists use none at all! But if used correctly, these products can make painting with oils a lot easier.
Let me know if you have further questions.

New Adventures in Painting

2012-01-15T14:49:00.000-08:00


Two Parrots acrylic 6x6"

This little tulip painting was done last week, along with it's buddy Parrot Tulip (will post another day). One of my favorite flowers - they were in an Easter bouquet last year. I tried to capture the lightheartedness and whimsical nature of the tulips rather than making a photo realism image.

You know how hard it is to keep New Year's Resolutions!? I am NEVER successful. This year one goal was to branch out to new art venues. Well, woohoo, I can one off! I just joined Daily Paintworks. Am very jazzed about finding this new on-line gallery! I hope to post often - new work will pop up on the front page. PLUS - you will see lots of other art -every imaginable style.

The only obstacle, for viewers who want to find a particular artist's new work, is that the artists names are not obvious on the front page, but you can easily use the search field on the left.

Check it out.... http://www.dailypaintworks.com/

Keep your Acrylic Paintings Vibrant

2012-01-09T14:15:00.000-08:00


NEON PEAR acrylic wash on paper (click to enlarge)

The above painting was a little study made while honing a technique in a class - making acrylic washes. The beauty of acrylic paint is that you can use it to create either a rich, oil-painterly look or a soft, more ephemeral watercolor effect. When using full body professional-grade acrylic paint you will end up with thick lustrous color without doing anything to it. However, when you mix the paint with a lot of water, to make washes, blending of watery colors etc., it will dry very dull.

When you create your piece and it's still wet, you'll love it, but then become disappointed when it dries and the result is a flat--a grayed out dull painting. DON'T DESPAIR! You can bring your painting back to life. Just brush a couple coats of high gloss varnish over it and all the colors will come back to life! You can use varnish from the art supply store...or just plain old boat varnish. It will last you a long long while and be cheaper. When you brush, use a cheap hardware store type brush; always brush in the same direction to avoid bubbles.

No-cal Dessert

2012-01-08T21:43:00.000-08:00


Orange Slices oil (double click on photo)

Going through my art photos. Here's a shot of a painting from almost 9 years ago. One of hubby's top two picks. Are you OK with the abstract feel or might prefer if it were a more traditional realistic still life?

studies, studies and more studies....

2011-12-27T21:47:00.000-08:00

Realism one minute; abstraction the next..... what gives?! If you've followed my blog or checked the different galleries on my website, you know I might paint traditional oil pieces one week; something whimsical the next.

Earlier in 2011, I began a series that originally was to be called "Spring", which...I have not finished yet. ooooops! Got a bit sidetracked with some other work..so my goal is to finish four new bigger pieces by early-mid February.

These little abstract pieces above are studies, 6x6" ...to help me work out not so much a finished form but to get my motion (mojo!?) going. A way to play with brush strokes, energy and color. A way to loosen up before I begin the big painting, especially after some tighter traditional work.

2011-12-25T23:16:00.001-08:00

Lagoon 5x7" click to enlarge

This, like the geraniums in the window (last post) are works on paper. They're done mixing acrylic and lots of water - very loose, building texture in wet layers rather than loading the dry brush with thick paint. Before painting like this, you need to apply 3 coats of protective gesso to create a good barrier between the water/paint solution and the archival paper. Also, the more water one adds to acrylic paint, the duller it looks when dry...but then you give it a coat of varnish and voila! all that brilliant paint color that was there when wet reappears. And what's cool, you can either use art product varnish ....or just regular ol' boat varnish..which will make your piece last for eons!

2011-12-22T22:19:00.000-08:00

Aeroeskobeing (click to enlarge)

Like for many of you, these last few days before Christmas find me baking (biscotti), wrapping gifts, thinking about meals. So, tonight I'm posting a small, older painting (acrylic on paper). We visited Aeroeskoebing back in 2002 when hubby had work in Denmark and I took several photos of windows and flowers pots for painting. This charming island is full of thatched roofs, window flowers, bike trails and lovely rolling hills full of sheep. Only 7050 people live there but over 300,000 tourists swarm the place from late May to winter. Luckily we were there in April and had the place to ourselves.

2011-12-19T21:10:00.000-08:00


Happy Holidays, Bloggers!

Today one blog reader sent me an email full of good news and warm holiday wishes. I'd like to extend the same to each one of you. As the year draws to a close I wish you special time with friends and family. May next year bring good health and fun adventures. Thanks for your emails with feedback, ideas etc. Keep 'em coming in 2012. And to my students...Keep On Painting! Mary

Lean on Me

2011-12-14T22:48:00.000-08:00

Lean on Me

oil, 6x6"

Actually painted this a few weeks ago, when the first persimmons hit the market. Never can resist them. They are so inviting you just need to have a couple even, if like me, you tell yourself you'll make persimmon pudding or other such holiday delicacy, but rarely do. They earn their keep though, being willing subjects for me to paint and..looking festive for several weeks. Hope you all are enjoying this gorgeous fall we're having...and getting into the spirit of the holidays. More soon, Mary

Happy Accident

2011-11-26T14:56:00.001-08:00


'WILD Cherries'

double click to enlarge
What do you get when you use an old stiff paintbrush, a piece of cardboard and a play-date? A happy accident!

Elena (7) was over and we were making a 'collaborative' painting - starting by randomly painting something on an old piece of white cardboard - then each adding to it. Well, I scribbled out these little rockin' and rollin' cherries in about 3 minutes - I think they have way more character than all the cherries I've painted combined. Hmmm what does that tell you? Maybe I should call it "Cherries on Steroids!". Thanks Elena - you help me tap my playful self.

2011-11-25T11:32:00.001-08:00

Harmony and Duet - both oil on board, both 6x6"
double click to enlarge
This is what I should have been eating yesterday rather than the apple cheesecake and pumpkin pie with praline topping! But, my oh my, those pies were SO good.

These two little paintings were done after marketing last week. Good thing I did them right away-- when Elena came over (7 yr old granddaughter) she had to have one because 'Nona, they look SO delicious". Not sure about the gray backgrounds. Maybe next time more white? A splashier color? Click to see the colors better.

Fledglings Need Feathers

2011-10-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

This week, while driving along, I heard an interview with Kay Ryan, winner of the Pulitzer Prize in poetry -2011. Because I teach novice painters, I couldn't help love what she had to say. The interviewer asked her what advice she had for fledgling writers. "Fledglings!", said Ms Ryan, "that's the perfect name for beginners. I'd tell them that they need to stay in the nest longer and grow more feathers before trying to fly."

It's typical to want to put your work out there ... we all tend to fall in love with our first attempts. When really, if you'd stay 'in the nest' growing your feathers for a few years, you'd have learned so much more and your art would be so much better.

There are always exceptions, of course. Some - and it's rare -can pick up a brush, sit down to the piano or put pen to paper - and beautiful results happen right away. But for the rest of us - well it takes a lot of hard work to be an 'overnight success', The Good News? Even growing feathers is great fun!

Again: value does the work; color gets the credit!

2011-10-22T11:23:00.000-07:00

In my classes we often discuss and practice value studies. Value is the difference between dark and light. While some paintings work very well with minor value change (i.e. little difference in darkness or lightness regardless of the color), paintings with a variety of value levels (some strong light and dark tones/values along with medium values) tend to be more exciting and energetic.
(on laptops: tilt your screen to see more clearly).

Minor Value Difference

This top image has mostly medium values - mo really strong darks and lights. It's pleasant but a bit uninteresting.

Strong Value Difference

The middle image shows more value changes: strong darks, bright lights and several varying middle range values.

Color w Value changes

This final image has translated the multi-value middle image into color.

Many artists will paint their piece first in gray scale values (top two images) to work out the values before adding color. Then they can mix their color to the value on their underpainting without having to think too much about it.

I don't work that way usually though it's a great exercise to train your eye for value differences. I challenge those of you who paint to try a couple paintings (small is easiest) doing a value underpainting then add your color at the end. Let me know how that works.

'Fruit Cup' for the series

2011-10-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

'Fruit Cup'
24x30" acrylic on canvas
double click to enlarge

As many of you know, I set a goal earlier this year.... to paint a new series of about 12-15 new pieces This is the newest to join that group.
The paintings for the series are often either out of my head completely (like some of the florals posted) or taken from a still-life set up, as this one was.
I realize that my paintings are often very different from one another. Sometimes I fret about this; other times, like today, I say "so what". If I can't paint what I want than what's the point of painting....right?

Do you notice anything different about this piece?

Watching Over You

2011-10-19T18:05:00.000-07:00

"Watching Over You" 6x6" oil on board.

This little painting was 'done' a few weeks ago - or so I thought. But, as I glanced at it in my studio I kept thinking it needed something - like when you taste what you're cooking and think it needs a tad more salt or chili pepper....

Today I put it back on the easel and pushed the shadows and brights a bit more - and now I'm happy with it. It's a "value" thing. Without some strong value contrast a picture can have all the right colors but not be much fun. I think that dark shadow on the wall makes everything work a lot better. I'm ready to call it finished now.

One of these days I'll invest in good photo lighting and a better camera so that what I post is as clear as the real thing.... Maybe I should put that on my Christmas List!

Great Gals = New Painters!

2011-10-17T23:08:00.000-07:00

See these great gals? They were Saturday's students at Tam High - and they jumped in whole heartedly to get their brushes thick with paint - trying out brushes, mixing wonderful colors. grappling with value studies and more. Five hours full of info and when offered a choice to leave early or do 'just one more exercise' - they enthusiastically opted for more painting. GO GALS!

I would like to develop a new class - maybe by January. Probably I would teach this intro class in Sept; the new class in January. We'll see if I can pull it together by then. It may be done but then it will need to go through the approval process.

Had a great personal art week. One of my painting pals was in town We painted together a bit and also did some local sight-seeing. Today worked on a couple new studies - and a bit on a bigger painting. Will post some tomorrow if they are dry enough.

Happy Painting....

Work in progress...checking for changes

2011-10-07T20:49:00.001-07:00

(work in progress - no name yet, 16x20")

Painting is often about working out problems...figuring out how to get where you want to go...or where the painting wants to end.

I don't usually show paintings at this stage but I thought I'd share with my students how to take an objective look, identify problems and come up with some 'fixes'.

This was actually a totally different painting. It's been sitting in my studio for a long while --a piece I just couldn't love--and didn't see anything I wanted to do with it. So, I began a new painting right over the old one.

At this stage you have two options. Cover the old painting with white gesso or begin painting right over the old one. I prefer painting on the old piece because often something comes through and adds a lovely surprise to your new piece.

The lines here are left from the original piece. Haven't decided yet if I'll tweak them or take them out altogether. What would you do? I may take some out and if I miss them, paint them back in.
One big mistake I made is that I didn't step back often enough to look & assess how things were progressing. When your in front of your canvas painting for hours you don't see the proportions or relationships clearly. You can't tell how it will look in a room, seen from several feet away. I missed a couple obvious flaws by standing too close. (If you double click on this piece you'll see it more clearly.)

What do you think the most obvious flaw is? Is the middle cherry too big compared to the others? Don't you think it looks more like an apple? And..maybe there is too much space between the left and middle joined cherries....? I may need to move that second cherry over to the left a bit and make it smaller. But you don't want them all the same size either. Then it would become very static. Maybe the second cherry should be even smaller than the first one. Well, I will just have to try some of this.

Sometimes I'll say "hmmm, I wonder if X is too big?" Or "Is that blue right?" As painter Bob Burridge says: "If you have to ask the question you already know the answer!".

One way to avoid having to correct all this late into your project is to make a quick sketch first. Or do a rough study on paper with paint. Had I taken a bit of time to do that, most of these problems would have been figured out before I began the final painting.

Maybe I can put the painting in Photoshop now that I have a jpeg of it and play with it there - do my 'homework' on my laptop and then finish the painting.

We'll see how it goes. Who knows, maybe it'll end up something totally different - again!

2011-10-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

Floating Tulips, acrylic on canvas

I think this triptych is finished...?? This happens from time to time. Less often when painting from a set up still life, but if I'm doing any abstraction, esp. if from my imagination, it's tempting to want to add just one more brush stroke, a little addition of color or line.

So, I'll put it up in the studio and see how it 'feels' for a few days. Will go from there....
Mary

p.s. a friend asked why she gets emails and not the actual blog. To view the blog, just click on the highlighted daily title.

Free Demo of Acrylic Products.....& My Class

2011-10-05T22:56:00.000-07:00

Hi all, I'll probably post a painting tomorrow but wanted to give you all a heads up on two upcoming events:

Oct. 22, Free Demo: Many ask about the various mediums and additives that can be used with acrylic paints. A rep from Golden Paints will be demonstrating many of these products at Riley Street Art Store, Fourth St., San Rafael

Oct. 30, Class: I'll be teaching my Beginning Painting with Acrylics (aka Get Ready to Paint) class at Riley's on October 30th. 11:00-2:30. Pass the word along to any friends who have wanted to paint but are hesitant. We cover brush types, color mixing, prepping surfaces and other basics. This class prepares a really novice artist to embark on her first painting class.

You can check out details here: http://rileystreet.com/ (look under classes/San Rafael)
OK - More soon,
Mary

Flowers...and sales

2011-09-16T23:00:00.000-07:00

These little flowers were the last from a big bouquet; wish I knew what they are. The background is a greenish blue -- you may be able to tell if you tilt your screen a bit. Oil on board. 6x6" Can't figure a name - ideas?

$$$. Making art can be so expensive. Just thought I'd give those of you who have taken up art recently a heads-up about the back-to-school sales that are going on through the end of Sept. While I usually shop local art stores, I was curious about the on-line store sales. I compared buying 5 items at two on-line stores. The same 5 items were about $50 at Blick Art, about $114 on another site. Riley's and other local stores are also having good sales. Up to 60% off their normal prices. So if you need to stock up, now may be a good time.

Homework time..... value study.

2011-09-15T22:47:00.000-07:00

OK - in the spirit of 'practice what you preach', I did some homework before jumping right into my daily big project. Yesterday I practiced values (we discussed value in class Sunday).

Value: lightness and darkness. Value adds energy and interest to your painting... and it helps prevent chaos. Making your paint darker or lighter is how you control value.

(Remember, this is NOT about color. )

Notice values here: light value the top of top box, the box becomes less bright on the left side. A darker mid-value on the side of bottom box. The ends are the darkest value, esp. that right bottom corner. There's a tiny highlight on the little front right top corner of the bottom box. Some of the table cloth is in shadow, some in light. If these same-color boxes were painted in all one value (no change between light and dark) - the painting would not read with any interest or energy. (not that cardboard boxes are THAT interesting :-) The eye would not travel around the painting.

Note: You can get darker shades of the main color you are using by adding black to your original color or by adding ultramarine blue+Aliz. crim or cad red, ult. blue+orange to your original color, etc.

Your turn! EZ Lesson:

1. Set up a simple subject (e.g. piece of fruit or a box etc.), shine it with an angled light so you have bright side, a dark shadow side, and some in-between tones.

2. Paint using only black and white to paint your picture......mix all your tones..from your charcoal gray to your very light/white highlight.

3. Look at the subject very careful. Identify your darkest area and decide how dark is it. Is it pitch black or some slightly lighter shade? Where is the highlight? Notice all the values next to one another. Paint your darkest areas first with black or charcoal black, paint your highlight or brightest area with pure white. Then mix a couple grays for the in-between shades. Try a few!

I did use a bit of color here, but I wasn't thinking about color - just my shadows and brightness.

Some artists always make a blk/white/gray value study before starting a new color painting - whether abstract or realistic. Then they know and transfer the value results to their color piece.

Let me know how yours turns out. Good luck!

"Best Buddies"

2011-09-11T19:41:00.000-07:00

"Best Buddies" Acrylic on paper. a 20 min study.

Hey, remember me? Bet you thought I'd quit blogging. Don't know how many of you are still receiving these...hopefully some of you are still "out there"?

Over the summer, I posted a few of the 2011 series I'm working on...the abstracted florals. But, to fess-up, I had a light painting schedule. Busy summer - with a couple little local trips, lots of special time with my two grandkids... Now it's fall and I'm jumping back in.

Warm-up activities: The little painting here was done Friday -- 20 minute exercise. An art pal and I have giving set up a schedule of exercises we'll each do every week. It's a great way to hone technique. Like practicing piano scales or tennis forehand. To paraphrase what every painter knows - you have to put in the hours; you have to paint hundreds of paintings to be really competent.

Today I taught a class at the local jc and it was a blast. Had about 15 students - who knew that Sunday was a great day to teach. Makes sense; people are not at work. Everyone in this class was so very enthusiastic about starting their painting journey. Some are delving into abstracts; others plein air, still life, figure... some start their first 'real' class tomorrow! I forgot to take a photo of the class - sorry about that.

Value Color Charts

2011-07-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

(sample value grid. Far right column is black to white value chart. The yellow and red columns are value color charts. More below)

If I've said this before, it bears repeating: "Color gets the credit but value does all the heavy lifting.." (anon).

Value is light vs. dark. Every color can be made darker or lighter by adding black (shades) or white (tints). Changing value can be done to color right out of the tube or to mixed colors (e.g to red + blue.....purple).

By being aware of the mood you want to convey, you can use value to create successful energy (vs. chaos) or calm beauty (vs. dullness).

There are two reasons to creating value charts to pin up in your work space:

a) they will help you learn how to control value in our work.

b) you'll discover some amazing colors when mixing black and/or white with 'raw' colors (e.g. check out, in student sample photo, the cool green made from cadmium yellow and black)

For those ready to put in work for a big pay-off, here's how to:

make a Gray Value chart:

1) Draw a 1" wide column, divided it into nine equal segments, about 1" deep.

2) Paint the top segment black; the bottom one white and then use 50/50 for the middle segment.

3) Try to fill in the empty segments with gradually changing mixtures of gray.

The goal when making your steps is to avoid big 'jumps' from one segment to the next. i.e. visually each step should reflect the same degree of change as the step before it. Sound easy? HA! Keep at it until you feel you are really close to having the top to bottom move smoothly from one square to the next.

make a Color Value Chart:

1) Draw your column as noted in 1) above.

2) Paint your top segment almost black but with enough color to see it as a very dark version; paint the bottom segment almost white, with a hint of the color. For the middle square try and make a combination of the top and bottom color, approx. 50/50

3) Fill in the empty segments with gradually changing proportions so that all steps are complete, with no big 'jumps' from one segment to the next.

Let me know how you do!

Remind: July 9th

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

Reminder! Class this Saturday at Riley Street Art Supply. 2:00 - 5:30. It'll be loads of fun - for the true novice! This orientation will get you familiar with brushes, color mixing and other aspects about painting that you need to know- before you jump into that first landscape or figure class. Come join us - NOW. VERY LOW KEY! email me today.

(if you know anyone who's wanted to try painting but was hesitant, send this along to him/her).

Photo: Tam Adult Ed Class.

Spring Tulips

2011-06-30T20:56:00.000-07:00

Spring Tulips - 24x26"

As you may remember, I've been posting a new series "Spring - 2011".

This diptych was painted in the same vein as the first few in the series (show in older blogs) but, rather than coming from my head, I drew inspiration from an old photo of tulips I love. In the photo about 1/3 of the white wall was in bright sunlight; the rest was darkened by shadow. I used that as a spring board in creating the composition.

My goal is to create a body of about 10-12 paintings. I better get going or it'll have to be a 2012 series!

This evening, I'll post twice - using a detail from this piece, to demonstrate dry-brush technique.

Hope you are having a wonderful summer.

Two makes for too much fun!

2011-06-13T22:26:00.000-07:00

I was lucky to have my painting pal Linda Yoder here Memorial Weekend. How indulgent it was to think, talk about and make art all weekend long. At one point we did 1 minute timed ink sketches of one another in various standing and sitting poses. Have you ever tried to draw someone in one minute? EXACTLY! several of our attempts brought tears to our eyes - of laughter that is.

On Monday we did some oil painting; hubby Phil snuck in to snap this of us. A good time and a couple good little pieces to boot.

You can check out Linda's blog - link in the right. column

There's painting...and then there's painting...

2011-05-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

(Click image to enlarge)
Painting lots since my last post but not so much on canvas. Long overdue, I schlepped everything out of my studio to put a fresh coat of paint on the walls and even the floor. Now that I've put everything back in place, it's time to get back to working on the 2011 series.

Here's a quick photo of the new gray floor and clean white walls. I'm raring to go - it's like I've moved to a brand new place. Watch for new work soon. Mary

HIghs and Lows and everything in between.

2011-05-09T22:16:00.000-07:00

Sharing a peek at this weekend's Open Studio reception. (thanks for the photos Patricia)

Left photo: my pal Gerry dropped in to check out the new work. She's been a trouper - regularly supporting my shows.

Right photo: A unexpected reunion with one of my very first buyers, Barbara, and her hubby came on through. What a delight it was to connect again.

Highs and lows during these events. Some visitors come and chat about art and life ; others glance but walk on to another studio -having thick skin is important.

Bottom line? I enjoy it all and look forward to the next adventure. Will keep you posted.

Yikes! Only two days before Open Studios

2011-05-05T09:14:00.000-07:00

Abundance, 36x48. click to enlarge

This is my most recent painting; finished it this week. It's a big guy. 4 feet wide. Had great fun painting it. It came along right on the heels of the Spring pieces and was meant to fit that body of work but seems to have a quirky personality of its own. (the painting is lighter, brighter than this but I didn't have time to correct it)

Last minute craziness today. I'm about to head out to hang my paintings at the gallery that my two pals and I are sharing for 2011 Open Studios this weekend. It's sometimes hard putting your work out there for scrutiny but it's also a joy meeting so many people as they wander through various studios, asking questions, sharing their thoughts.

We spend two full days at the studio: 11 - 6 (well longer since we go early to get things ready; stay later to clean up. The address again is 1337 Fourth Street, San Rafael. Would love to see you!This is my most recent painting; finished it this week. It's a big guy. 4 feet wide. Had great fun painting it. It came along right on the heels of the Spring pieces and was meant to fit that body of work but seems to have a quirky personality of its own. (the painting is lighter, brighter than this but I didn't have time to correct it)

Spring II - part of the Open Studio exhibit

2011-05-02T21:25:00.000-07:00

Spring II. 30 x 48 diptych acrylic on canvas, (click to enlarge)

The other day I posted Spring I; this diptych is part of the same series. I began these paintings during a long dreary rainy spell, needing to put some color into my day. Abstract yet recognizable these pieces are less about the subject than they are about the feeling the subject inspired in me.

The levels of energy, movement and color in the Spring series are quite a contrast with work I did last year which were very still and quiet. In those previous pieces, faintly sketched subjects sat gently against pale smooth backgrounds.

I've found that over the years in my studio, the cycles of the seasons, my moods, what is going on in my life is continually reflected in my work. I guess it's a therapy of a sort.

An Invitation for May 7 & 8

2011-04-29T18:45:00.000-07:00

click images to enlarge.

Did you think I'd given up on my blog? It seems like forever since I posted but I have good excuse....at least I think so. We were away for a reunion with my father's family in Italy. It was amazing. So do forgive my lapse.

Since I returned I've been painting crazily to finish up some new pieces for....(drum roll).... OPEN STUDIOS ~ May 7 & 8. Three of us will share a studio space and there are 40 other artists throughout the building. Hope you can drop by to say hi. (1337 4th Street, San Rafael, CA. 11-6 both days).

The two images here: (1) SPRING one of my new pieces. 40x36", acrylic. (2) Your invitation from me and my painter pals (click to see their names and details of the show).

There will be snacks and music and lots of fun art, so if you can, come by. Drop me a note if you have any questions.

Don't be fooled...same class -new name

2011-03-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

Birthday Tulips acrylic on canvas 20x2.

click on picture to enlarge

Please note - the "Beginning Painting with Acrylics" class that I'll teach at Riley Street Art Supply on April 2 is actually the same "Get Ready to Paint" class I've been teaching at College of Marin and Mt. Tam High Community Ed.

Riley's felt this new title fits better for the art store. I just want to make sure that my previous students don't think this is a new follow-up class. (I am working on one though - will let you know when we're ready to go "live" with it.)

Hot tip: - LAVA SOAP! No kidding. Keep this under your sink. It's the best for washing off oil and acrylic paint.

BTW: These flowers were painted in two days . You kno how tulips droop so fast...had to catch this little gift from hubby before I lost them all.

Good Sports all!

2011-03-12T16:21:00.001-08:00

A Pair of Fujis... oil on canvas 6x6"
Today's class deserves a big THANK YOU for taking all the gliches in stride.... from the room change to not having access to the supply list until Friday late in the day. You were all so positive and upbeat - even Heidi after her auto accident!! Big round of applause to you all. The old room used for this class had tons of table and sitting space. Perhaps next time we'll be in there.

As always - teaching is a joy. So many people excited this new adventure.

I forgot my camera today so no shots of this cool group painting -phooey. Thought this an appropriate painting since we talked a ton about apples. '

Finally - students , go to earlier blog below and see the timed lemons we talked about. You can sign up to learn the newest class. If you have questions, comment below or email me m@maryvalente.com

Sneak preview

2011-03-10T11:55:00.001-08:00

'sneak preview' ....

As you can tell in this close-up, I've taken a totally different approach to painting flowers than in the last post. That was a small 6 inch painting, in oil, done with small brushes and careful strokes. Realistic. This time I'm working a 48"x36" (4x3') canvas.

When approaching a large canvas it's best to stand back from the canvas, arm's reach. To get this loose look, I use a big filbert or brite brush, gripping it towards the end of the handle with my whole hand (not like holding a pen). Lots of sweeping and back and forth brushing -- rubbing edges of color into color (the side of my old brush is worn to a very different angle than its original shape from all that hard rubbing against the canvas). To create detail and interest, use the side of your brush and/or a Round

The cool thing about acrylic paint is that if you wait just a few minutes, one layers dries so you don't make 'mud' - you can get layers showing through layers. OR -you can paint wet over wet to mix your colors on the canvas - creating wonderful hues you would never get mixing on your palette. (That being said - I do mix colors on the palette but then work them into the canvas....they will change depending on if I'm painting over wet or dry areas.

Of course having some great music playing, warm light streaming in - makes this a grand old time. So grab yourself a big canvas (watch for sales: 2 for 1) some acrylic paint and get happy! Don't set up a still life, just have an idea - or a very loose sketch- of what you want to paint (totally abstract to an abstracted subject: flower, person, landscape. Don't try to make it real - make it full of odd color and proportion. PLAY!

Final painting should be up by end of week.

After the lemons came the little Pinkies

2011-03-01T20:47:00.000-08:00

'Little Pinkies' oil on board. click to enlarge

Yesterday I mentioned doing a small still life after the warm-up lemons posted yesterday. This is it- lot of fun to paint. I especially enjoyed working out the shadows which are often a challenge for me.

I wish I knew the name of these sweet little flowers - do you? They were like fillers in a larger bouquet.

While working on this and the little lemons, I also have been developing a 30 x 46" abstract in oil. A journey - we'll see where it goes...

Warm-ups work (remember my challenge?)

2011-02-28T20:05:00.000-08:00

Lemon Studies (click to enlarge).

Did you painters out there try the 15 minute challenge warm-ups? When I went into the studio Saturday, I brought down my kitchen timer, a little lemon and rushed out four 15 minute studies (top row); the next day I did three 10 minute studies (bottom row). You can see I "saw" the colors of the meyer better the second day - made them warmer, more orange.

You can bet I felt stiff for the first couple attempts.... then free and loose by the end. There are plenty of changes I would make with more time (let me know the changes you would make if you were working on them: lemon, background); it's hard not to fuss over each -- you need to stop when that timer rings. You can see that we're not aiming for 'perfect' here. But to be able to get that little meyer lemon down in 10 minutes feels good. Gets you ready to jump into something bigger with it's own challenges. From this I went on to paint a little still life of flowers (the remains of a bouquet). I'll post that tomorrow.

Keller Grand Opening & reception recap

2011-02-18T10:16:00.000-08:00

SO! Have any of you painters/students tried the 15 minute challenge? I confess, I hadn't done it in awhile so yesterday, before I began work on my current piece, I did three 15-min. studies; used a lemon. It's gets you revved up, for sure. Tell me, via comments below or emails, when you try it; do you like it?

A couple of blogs below I told you about the Grand Opening Reception for der Keller: the new furniture/artisan store on Fourth Street. It was a great event - lots of amazing food and fun people.

That's me in front of 'Whisper I' - one of my larger pieces-pieces 60x40 -- Painting big is a challenge but I enjoy it a lot You have to have enough info that the eye of the viewer travels around the work rather than just to one place. Soon...... Mary

15-Minute Challenge for You!

2011-02-17T09:45:00.000-08:00

A common exercise for painters is to do several quick studies each day to warm up. It's good on so many levels: helps you loosen up, builds skills, helps you really learn that one subject--well maybe not the first few times but after 100 you'll be able to paint an apple with your eyes closed.

For newer painters:

1. Pick a simple subject: an apple, orange, a cup, two cherries or grapes (not a big bunch). Set it up on a table. If you can put a spot light on it to create a dark and light side - even better but not required.

2. Divide a board or gessoed paper into 6 sections

3. Set your timer for 15 minute and paint. When the 15 minute time rings -STOP!!

4. Then paint 5 more - each with a 15 minute limit.

Don't fuss over it. Don't try to correct mistakes. You'll work them as you paint the next few. Just got for it. Have fun. Who cares if it isn't wonderful - it will be after you do this for your daily painting exercise. Next day paint the same subject or another.

For experienced painters:

Go to the Daily Painter website (below) and give their challenge a try. You have nothing to lose. No one will see you work - unless you want them to. If you like what you do - send it in to be posted on their site (read details at http://www.dailypaintworks.com/Challenges)

Their challenge: each week there's a new image and you are challenged to paint it 9 times in 10 minutes! And if you like what you've done you can post it on their site.

Are you up for trying this?! Let us know how it goes.

Using the comments section below - let us all know what you think of the challenge! And then how you feel when you have tried it.

Tam Class-fun (and corrected date for March!

2011-02-15T21:08:00.000-08:00

a terrific group at Tam High on Saturday. Here are a couple shots of my enthusiastic and hard-working students. All nine jumped in to try the exercises, experiment with paint and brushes, mix gorgeous colors. They are really ready to go!

(click to see photos large)

I'll teach "Get Ready to Paint" workshop again on March 12th (corrected date), College of Marin. Contact me if you need more info.

After class,scooted to the reception at der Keller (see last post). It was packed. Great artisan furniture.... and the appetizers were terrific! It's fun to see my big abstracts hanging around the room. Also had a few little valentines paintings matted and in red frames. There is work by several artists and some really cool custom made furniture etc. Stop by the store - she's open Wed-Sunday. See address below

You're Invited~Feb 12th!

2011-02-07T20:16:00.000-08:00

Two invites for you, and your pals...

Grand Opening ~ Reception

Feb 12, 3:00 - 7:00

A local couple are introducing their new store/artisan showroom. The Kunkles have designed a unique space that is more like a gallery than a furniture store. They have paired modern sofas and unique chairs with local artisan-designed wood and iron tables, metal sculptures..and, OH, did I mention? Art by local painters , including work by 'yours truly ;-)

der Keller is at 1850 4th Street, San Rafael, next to the Wooden Duck (across from the old Yardbirds store). I teach a workshop that day until 3:00, but will be there part of the time. Stop by, say hi, see all the cool artisan work, sample the goodies...

Get Ready to Paint Workshop: February 12th - Tamalpais High - 10 - 3:00.

You can just show up. It's part of the Continuing Ed Program - you'll have to register at class. You can do it now on-line or at class. Read the details at http://www.marinlearn.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=1010

Click on Art - then Visual - then look for Get Ready to Paint class. Easy !

Not a football fan? Join us on Super Bowl Sunday...

2011-01-27T23:30:00.000-08:00

Get Ready to Paint Class. FEBRUARY 6, 11:30-3:30.

RILEY'S ART STORE. San Rafael.

This is for total beginners. An orientation to terms, paint, brushes, surface preparation etc. Presentation and hands-on ez activities. For anyone that would love to paint but is hesitant about getting going. Email me at m@maryvalente.com

for info, questions, to register.

To 'follow' or 'subscribe'? Hmmmmm

2011-01-27T19:23:00.000-08:00

"Tipsy after Sake" oil on board

Click to enlarge

Since I sent out the new blog I've had several emails asking the difference a Follower or Subscribing. Those who Follow tend to check favorite sites often (e.g. Facebook, Blogs, My Space etc.) Followers go onto various sites regularly to see what's up.

The Subscriber merely signs-up once, then gets an email when something new is posted on the blog. So - it's boils down to if you'd rather have your food delivered or you want to go shopping :-)

I love these - a gift from a Japanese student who lived with us for almost two years. And they are too cute. They are definitely fun when we are having Japanese food (delivered), enhanced with a little hot or cold Japanese rice wine.

Fuji Apples are My Favorite

2011-01-25T21:05:00.000-08:00

"Two Fujis" oil on canvas. 6x6"

click to enlarge

Another small painting. This one seemed to paint itself ~ I just love that. It's so odd - sometimes it takes forever to get a piece the way you want it; then, once in awhile, the brush and paint just take over. So nice when that happens.

Marin Open Studios will be coming up in May. Need to get working on some bigger pieces for that weekend. More info to follow. Hope my ol' students are painting. Remember it's not necessary to complete a 'real' paintings - just practice mixing colors, drawing and painting with your brushes - makes shapes and 'subjects' to get comfortable with materials.

A Little Shy

2011-01-20T23:47:00.000-08:00

"A Little Shy" oil on board 6x6.

Painted this little guy in a workshop - 2010. The vase is one of my favorites. It was in a basket at a pottery show - as 'less than perfect'. Like the runt of the litter I couldn't resist it. It's tiny - looks sweet with a couple little pansies in it.

Thought I'd the class schedule; last time I had folks say they wished they'd known about it - so let's make sure all do! :-)

FEBRUARY 6, 11:30-3:30. RILEY'S ART STORE. San Rafael.

Tell your friends. I'll be teaching "Get Ready To Paint" This is for total beginners. An orientation to terms, paint, brushes, surface preparation etc. Presentation and hands-on ez activities. For anyone that would love to paint but is hesitant about getting going.

FEBRUARY 12, 10:00 -3:00 TAM HIGH COMMUNITY EDUCATION

Same class as above. Register at their site.

https://marinlearn.augusoft.net//index.cfmmethod=ClassInfo.ClassInformation&int_class_id=25539&int_category_id=1&int_sub_category_id=29

Tell your pals! "Get Ready..." has been really well received. There are so many people who want to get in touch with their creative side; folks want to paint but are "shy" about jumping in - worry about feeling intimidated or making mistakes. Can't make any mistakes in this class! It's all about learning brushes, color mixing etc.

Two Things Today

2011-01-19T22:29:00.000-08:00

Two Tangerines - oil on board. 6x6

These are point/shoot, so not great; oops I cut a bit of edge. Sorry about that.

Hey all, two things today:

Paintings. 6x6 paintings . Painters always are learning - not matter how long they've been at it. I think it's typical - you feel you need to 'perfect' your brush stroke, color sense, composition. Whether you paint abstract or traditional -you need to build the same skills.

These small pieces allow me to hone those skills. Most are on artisan board; a few on canvases. Usually traditional but sometimes I'll play with abstract. I'll post a few over a few weeks.

Classes. FEBRUARY 6, 11:30-3:30. RILEY'S ART STORE. San Rafael.

FEBRUARY 12, 10:00 -3:00 TAM HIGH COMMUNITY EDUCATION

Same class as above. Register at their site.

https://marinlearn.augusoft.net//index.cfmmethod=ClassInfo.ClassInformation&int_class_id=25539&int_category_id=1&int_sub_category_id=29

NEW CLASS: Working on new class - should be ready in next month or so. New class should be ready in a couple weeks then I see if I can get it into the schools.

Phone Call = Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T22:08:00.000-08:00

Untitled-I, 2009.

Maybe, in honor of NY Eve this should be titled "Fireworks" ....?

This was done last year . I don't paint a lot of abstracts but enjoyed watching this one unfold. I did a smaller one too but then got jumped into other projects. Hope to do a few more this year -maybe a series.

About that phone call in today's title: This week a woman called and said she is about to open a modern furniture and design store in town. The space has lots of high walls with great lighting - so she decided to find original work from local artists (paintings, sculptures) to pair with her furnishings. Too fun!

On Thursday Ms. Kunckle came by the studio and selected several paintings; we schlepped them over today. Soon after the New Year she'll host a Grand Opening reception. Should be a lot of fun. I'll post your invitation here :-)

Wishing you and yours a happy healthy 2011. Mary

2010-12-22T21:34:00.000-08:00

Tryptic: China Red. Acrylic on paper

Part 2 of three-part of a Tryptic. Could not fit all on this line.

It's been way too long since I've posted but I have a good excuse. Our last week in Buenos Aires (my last posting)-I got Shingles and have had them ever since. SO not much art going on. But - as I recover, I'm trying to get back into my work a little at a time.

Good News: Received confirmation on 3 Get Ready to Paint classes I'll teach in the New Year:

Feb. 6. Riley Street Art in San Rafael.

Feb. 12. Tam High, Mill Valley.

Mar. 12. College of Marin Kentfield.

This is a fun class designed for folks who has wanted to but never painted. We'll use acrylics. So - tell your buddies. More info and registration on the web sites for the venues noted above.

Hola from Argentina

2010-11-12T12:09:00.000-08:00

Hola my patient blog pals, It's been so long since my last post. We've been in Buenos Aires since mid-Oct..ole'

Hubby is working here and between getting settled, learning my way around this huge city (6th largest) and figuring out how to paint in our tiny flat.....aww heck - excuses, excuses. Have done a little painting but not tons.

You can see my make-shift atelier. Using the buffet in the dining room which has a glass top -- makes it esp. easy to work on. I lay out my paint in plastic take-out food trays. A glass of water, a little table easel and ready to go.

This painting is of a little restaurant in the hip barrio of Palermo which is divided into Palermo Soho (art and designers), Palermo Hollywood (movie/tv studios), Palermo Viego (oldest buildings, homes etc). This is one of a zillion places to eat. The cute Vespa is used for food delivery. In BA they even deliver helado (like gelato) to your house! Now THAT needs to be imported to US for sure.

BTW - Will be teaching three sessions of my "GET READY TO PAINT" for beginnings - after the first of the year - will post that info soon. Also have been working on a new class while down here.

To those of you who paint, esp. my new students, please use my email and drop me a note of what you are working on.

To all - Hope you are having a lovely fall. Ciao for now, Mary

A great class today! plus.... a book tip

2010-10-02T17:53:00.000-07:00

value study - black, white and gray

Brand new painters + 1 classroom + tons of enthusiasm, paint, brushes and playful spirits = one fun Saturday afternoon! (phooey - I forgot to take a photo of our gang)

A new session of Get Ready to Paint - this time in Mill Valley at Tam High school. My 'kids' -- a wide range of ages and histories; the common denominator was each wants to learn to paint but is hesitant to jump into a full blown landscape/figure/still life class -- that ol' fear of failure that so many of us have to face down all the time.

We played with brushes, the color wheel, complements and harmonious color. We mixed paints, made value scales. And then, because this group was fast and full of energy, we had a bit of time to spare so they created a value study of a subject (like the one above) --painting in one color - training the eye to find the spot or two of darkest dark, the the lightest light and two or three mid-tones. If you can nail your values - it doesn't matter what color you paint in. To share an anonymous quote - "color gets the credit; value does the heavy lifting".

Recommendation: the small wonderful book Art & Fear, for any one who wants to learn any new skill but is afraid of failing: (painting, music, writing, sports, cooking, a new job!) Easy to read - lots of wonderful anecdotes. You can check it out here http://www.amazon.com/Art-Fear-Observations-Rewards-Artmaking/dp/0961454733

2010-09-28T17:07:00.001-07:00

Dillion's First trip to the Beach. oil on canvas.

This is a painting I made about 6 months ago. It started out as a practice study - on an old canvas that was partially painted (thus the cut-away edges). I love painting it - the sun on his hat and color my favorite parts. I'll send it off to his mom (our niece); hope she likes it.

A dear friend and fellow painter are talking about really delving into figure painting. Very appealing. Not portraits but paintings with people in them - abstracted usually. Should be fun and a bit of a challenge.

OK - my BAD!

2010-09-11T16:51:00.000-07:00

Hi all. Recently I posted a kids' photo (see previous blog) - as I delve into figure painting. Promised to share the final pic. Well, started the painting and then put it aside to finish another project and get ready for today's class. So - my bad - still haven't finished it. Hope to this week.. Stay tuned.

Today, had a really fun workshop at the College of Marin - 15 enthusiastic 'newby' painters showed up and were really adventurous! (I meet the neatest people teaching this class).

They drank in tons of new info I presented, about brushes, paints, products, supports. Then I put them through the paces. First exercise - experiment with different brushes (see attached - click to enlarge) to learn how they differ in performance. Other exercises included color mixing with primaries and secondaries, making cool blacks and colorful grays and, saving the best for last, we ended with a lesson on the importance of knowing how to make use of value/tone to make a good painting great.

I'll be teaching this class in Mill Valley in October - a one day workshop like today. If you know anyone who might be interested have them register through the Tam District Adult Education (or contact met).

Play with paint - it's good for the soul!

2010-08-16T21:42:00.001-07:00

Elena & Lia. Easter.

While I've done some figure painting - abstracted or models - have not painted people I know. GULP! I'm going to go for it. Try to capture the little cousins, both 6; Elena (granddaughter) and her cousin Lia. They're just 6 weeks apart in age.

I'll let you see it when it's done. Wish me luck!

Color theory - an experiement

2010-08-10T18:15:00.000-07:00

Red Jubilee. 6x6 oil on board.

Color is a strange animal. We now know it can affect moods, looks different depending on what you pair it with. Can be "warm" or" cool" color.

Remember Red Jubilee? Well here is it with a warm harmonious background (left) and a cooler, contrasting background. I'm curious which you find more appealing?

Painting -Before & After: color mixing

2010-08-05T22:13:00.000-07:00

Cherry-licious! redo 6x6" - oil

Today I reworked two little paintings that I did a couple of weeks ago. This is the first I reworked (new is on bottom): changed color combination and added a more distinct back and fore ground.

Which do you like better? Is it the color combo that affects how you feel about them?

Sometimes I look around my studio and find pieces that don't quite make me happy. I use them as "practice' pieces --trying out new brush strokes, colors, composition etc.

Some artists really hate doing this; if a piece doesn't work they destroy it. But for me, working an 'old' painting I'm not satisfied with gives me a feeling of freedom. It's not like that precious white new canvas. If I think of it as recycling for practice sake - I'm free to experiment - get crazy. Sometimes I do this multiple times (experiment; not 'get crazy'!). The end result is always a surprise.

Richard Schilling - DIY Art

2010-07-30T17:26:00.000-07:00

Today I'm just passing along a wonderful link - one sample of the DIY (Do It Yourself) art movement. DIY is about finding ways to create art that is accessible. It is an anti-big-business-corporate-art world groundswell. Examples range from public free temporary work like Schillings (attached) to instances where artists form their own collectives, find venues to share their art (visual, movement, literary). I think you'll enjoy these wonderful art works made in nature, from nature - by pros and novices alike. May it be a spring board for us all to think outside the box, Enjoy. if it doesn't open - cut and pst into your browser. http://www.tikkun.org/tikkundaily/richard-shilling/

Just returned from a week with the grandkids. While I had hoped to make a little painting or two my art this trip consisted of sandcastles, pine-cone collections and clothespin dolls :-) New work soon.

3 Painting Classes Coming up

2010-07-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

Three session of "Get Ready to Paint" are now schedule for the next couple of months.

This is an orientation for the total novice - covering brushes, canvas prep, basic color mixing etc. We have a lot of fun. Some presentation, demos and hands-on activities.

If you know anyone that might be interested pls pass this along! Questions? email me.

August 8 - Riley Street Art Supply, San Rafael.

September 11 - College of Marin, Kentfield Campus

October 2 - Tam District Adult Ed - Tam High, Mill Valley.

A Sneak preview - and two Painter's Tips

2010-07-22T19:22:00.000-07:00

Two peeks at a new piece started a few days ago. Worked on it most of today, except when I was having a friendly (I hope) FB debate with my ol' pal Charlie.

What fun this new project is. In my typical schizophrenic style, from last week to this, I went from using 6x6" to 36x48" canvas, oil to acrylic, realism to abstraction (shoot, I'll never be a famous "landscape" or "still-life" or "portrait" painter.... too confining. Will post the final soon.

Painter's (Green) Tip: You never have to throw away paint.

Tip 1: When you finish painting, cover you palette and acrylic paints, with waxed paper, pat down the edges to the palette and pop in the freezer for a day, a month - or longer (trust me on this...and don't ask me how one can forget /not notice a big pan full of paint....). Before you cover it, wipe off the thin, used areas of paint - keep the big blobs of clean or mixed paint.

Tip 2: Another way to use up all your leftover paint - prime any new canvases/board etc. you have laying around. Don't worry about it being all one color, smooth, thin, missing places Whatever you have left - wipe across your next to paint surface. Eventually you can cover completely with your next painting...or let little surprise color highlights pop through.

Cherry-licious... thanks to Fern!

2010-07-20T21:27:00.001-07:00

"Cherry-licious" 6x6" oil on panel. Thanks to you you all for the fun titles for yesterday's painting: Compassion, Red Jubilee, Starting Life, Cherrilicious, the Huddle and Cherry Hug ---all terrific titles. Pulling out of a hat, the winner is...(ta-da) "Red Jubilee". Thanks Marilyn G.!

Since there were so many cute titles to choose from, I chose another one for today's painting -- Cherry-licious, from Fern N (I made a letter change - OK?) By the way, the back wall is grayish in the orig.; go figure!

So you're off the hook for this one. Watch for another "name that painting" image later this week. .

Painter's (Green) Tip: Make friends with those old scruffy crusty brushes and save them from the dump. You can get some great affects with frumpy brushes. They are wonderful for making uneven, squiggly lines and edges, 'carving' marks in thick paint, etc. When I'm stumped with a painting that seems to be overworked or going down a dead end, I grab one of my old brushes and redraw or just put some color on and enjoy the unpredictable. I used two rough one today to create an edge that I didn't want to look rigid.

What shall we title this?

2010-07-19T15:46:00.000-07:00

"______" ? 6x6" oil/board.

Help me name this little orphan: click comment or send an email to me. Winners will get fame, fortune... well, maybe not - perhaps just notoriety. :-) I'll post a couple more later this week ....let's see how creative you can be.

The cherries were gorgeous. What is it that is so happy about cherries?

Soon I'll try a similar one with acrylic to see which ends up easier/more fun to paint. Or better yet - someone from my last class - give it a try. Let me know how it turns out.

2010-07-18T21:37:00.000-07:00

China Red /2. This is the 2nd image of a small triptych piece.

About a week ago I committed to painting every day for the week; pretty much did. Little guys - 6x6", oils. Been waiting for them to dry so I can shoot photos. Some I like better than others. Will post a few during the week. Always hard to come up with a name - how many "tulips" can one have?

Stand by - you can help name them. This is not from last week but had the photo already.

PAINTERS TIP: Lava soap! Amazing for cleaning off oil or acrylic paint from your hand. And you thought it was only for auto shop!

Paint Solver: Be cleaner - be thrifty - be smart!

2010-07-08T21:31:00.000-07:00

'Two Fujis' - oil on canvas. 5x5

Oil painters often use mineral spirits, turpentine or Turpenoid for cleaning brushes and sometimes as a medium. Sadly, many newbies throw out a lot of it each session - wasting both the product and money, not to mention having adding a lot of toxic product to our fragile planet.

Thought I'd pass on an efficient, cleaner was to handle your solvent:

1. Get yourself two old food jars with good screw-on lids: one for dirty solvent; one for clean solvent.

2. Into a clean jars, pour a little solvent and use it sparing while you paint. Between colors, wipe your brush well on an old thick rag/towel. Often you can then go to your next color without rinsing the brush in solvent. You usually can get away with rinsing only when going from a dark color to a much lighter color.

3. At the end of your painting session, pour the dirty solvent into your second jar, put lid on tight.

4. Let the solution separate. After a few hours (or overnight) the dirty paint sludge will settle to the bottom.

5. Next painting session, carefully pour the clean solvent into your 'clean' jar - to use again.

This process can be done over and over. Your solvent will last for years. Or, better yet, avoid toxic solvets. Use Murphy's Oil, kitchen oil, painter's soap or other on-toxic product to clean your brushes. Now - go paint!

One step at a time....

2010-07-05T23:28:00.000-07:00

(Chine Red II; acrylic on paper)

Some weeks I think about painting more than I do it - booo. This week I commit to painting every day (once I clean a path in the studio tomorrow!)

Saw an odd, haunting movie recently - "Seraphine" (Netflix) - about a woman's passion for making art in spite of her circumstances. Many things to soak up in this movie. One point that particularly struck me is that she just let her art flow - no formal lessons, no thought about a 'right vs wrong' way to paint. She had the urge to paint and she did it- she had no choice really. With little or no money she found ways to make 'paint'...no Winsor-Newton tubes to buy readily! Her originality is what made her art special. Pretty inspirational. Let me know if you have any other art movies to recommend...

Got a couple new class dates scheduled. I'll post them in a day or two.

"Cuties"

2010-06-22T22:37:00.000-07:00

These little 'cutie' tangerines are sweet to eat and sweet to paint. I worked on value to show how the afternoon light pushed played on the subjects.

If any of my students see this, note the gradual transition on the pitcher - the middle values - between the light side and the back side - as also on the tangerines. Oil on panel, 5x5".

p.s. the original is really crisp - the fuzziness is my poor photography!

"Color gets the credit but value does the heavy lifting" (anon quote shared by Debby Kaspari)

2010-06-19T22:20:00.000-07:00

Wow, this is so true! - whether you're talking about a b&w or color image.

Beginners often paint with little attention to value relationships (i.e. degrees of lightness and darkness (not to be confused with color changes). To give life and interest to your piece, to keep the viewers attention - the drawing/paintings should have at least 3, hopefully more, value changes.

In the first image there is very little value change. It's almost monotone. Except for the left side of the piece, most areas are middle gray with a few brighter light touches - barely.

In the second picture, note there are multiple values i.e. lights and darks: the darkest almost black areas (mid-section of stems), the brightest areas (reflection of light on water, next the buds) and then several different mid-gray values (left foreground vs. right foreground vs. right back area vs. water). Finally these value variations were translated into color.

It takes a bit to train the eye to notice value. Try to identify 'value' (lights and darks) when going about your day. If there is an apple sitting on the kitchen table and the morning light comes in through the window squint and look at the 'scene' and pick out:

- the very darkest dark (perhaps in the shadow wear the apple meets the table? or the shadow side of the stem?

- there may also be a dark shadow between the sunlit side of the apple and the back shadowy side....is it darker or lighter than the table shadow.

- Note how the table shadow is darker in some area than another.

- Where is the lightest brightest area?

- What is the 2nd lightest area?

- How does the sunny side of the table look compared to the shadowy side?

I'll share some other images of value in the next few days. Questions?

And the winner is......

2010-06-14T22:04:00.001-07:00

..."West Marin".

This was a busy Spring -- hosting a solo exhibit, teaching classes and being part of Marin Open Studios. It's always interesting to see how different art appeals to different people .... but hands down this little image has been the most popular this season. They were bought for birthday, wedding or 'just for me' gifts.

After getting lots of positive feedback on the original I decided to have museum quality prints made. If you know anyone who is might enjoy this little abstracted West Marin landscape - more info here ..... http://www.maryvalente.com/painting.php?pid=westmarin&gid=4

It's almost that time again....

2010-06-04T09:44:00.001-07:00

Time flies - so let's have some fun. June 19th I'll be teaching a Saturday workshop at College of Marin (Kentfield): "Get Ready to Paint" class - for beginners. It's been well received - helps the novice get the basics before walking into a full-fledged painting course. We'll be working in acrylics only.

If you know anyone who might be interested - have them go to this website - scroll down to 7th entry.

http://marincommunityed.org/summer2010/course/art.htm Call me if you have questions: 415 312-9575.

3 Degrees of Separation - last weekend

2010-05-28T18:22:00.000-07:00

3 Degrees of Separation = 3 unique visions offered by Patricia Leeds, Patti Oji and yours truly.

(double click to see large image)

In its final week, this exhibit offers a wide spectrum of creative work: paintings (realism, abstraction), collage, masks and more.

Drop in to the Underground Gallery -at Art Works Downtown - a very cool labyrinth of 40+ studios and galleries. As the name implies - our work is in a gallery is on the lower level.

The show runs through June 3. 10 - 6:00 daily, except Mondays.

Peonies - finally

2010-05-27T14:44:00.000-07:00

(Double click to enlarge image).

At UC, one instructor said "Sometimes a canvas seems to be jinxed. After several attempts at your painting, you are ready to throw in the towel. You can even white it out and start anew but, alas, the bad mojo stay" For awhile that seemed to be the case with this crazy painting... but I was determined.

Every day the darn peonies changed shape dramatically. Luckily, I had taken a photo the first day so I had a reference of the original subject blooms.

And the canvas seemed to be fighting the brush. Not sure exactly why but one flower would develop easily--the brush flying through the 'feel' of a zillion fragile petals (e.g. lower right); then the next bloom would be a two day struggle - and end up like mush; I'd have to redo-redo-redo until it seemed right. And the background - it has evolved from a burnt gold to a gray-blue-t0...now this cream/tan. Perhaps part of the problem is that I'm not an impressionist - so while my plan was to work quickly, using values rather than details to give the impression of the flowers, my inner 'realism' voice kept trying to take over. So I guess you can all this a hybrid. To see the original fresh flowers just scroll down.

Impressionism anyone?

2010-05-18T21:45:00.000-07:00

(click to enlarge). The De Young museum opens with the Impressionists exhibit this week. Can't wait to see it. While looking at some fresh peonies I bought at Trader Joe's (a splurge - their my favorites!) they called to me - so decided to try an impressionistic painting.

Working with acrylics, since they dry fast, and I felt these blooms would change dramatically in a couple of days. But - whoa- could they be more detailed? So many petals upon petals upon petals.. all almost the same color.

So, here's a glimpse of my first 'impressionist' efforts. I thought I'd share it now because sometimes I get to this point with a new technique - where I like it 'so far' but then before I know it - it goes downhill. (ahrrr)

But either way, I'll be brave and post the final - whether or not I'm satisfied with it. That's only fair ...and anyway it's about the process and learning...AND having fun!

A Rose by any other name....

2010-05-12T23:27:00.000-07:00

Roses from Phil's mom's garden - may be the inspiration for my next few paintings. May go realistic - or impressionistic. Waddayathink?

Original vs Prints ....

2010-05-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

In the late 90s and early this decade there was a ton of buyers for original art. The stock market was strong, the housing market wild - people were buying big homes and looking for art to fill their walls. Festivals and openings became hot social gathering with art lovers everywhere.

Then, with the 'dot-com' bust and the housing market slump, there just wasn't a lot of 'discretionary' money for the nice-to-have purchases....like ART. Festivals and exhibits are still well attended but visitors are more hesitant to purchase the paintings they love.

Giclee prints are a great compromise. These are not like prints off the home printer. They are high quality images; the color is pigment vs. dye based, i.e. the same pigment that is found in traditional oil paint. They can be printed on archival paper or canvas - just like the original!

I typically select 300 lb. 100% cotton rag paper. Coupling this pigment ink and archival paper, the color and quality of these prints makes it hard to tell the original from the copy. I create a limited edition of most which keeps the buyer's purchase valuable.

The picture here "Pitcher with Fruit", along with"West Marin", have been made into prints and are in my current inventory. If there is a picture on the website that you would like to have a print of, let me know. I can usually have one ready for framing within two weeks.

Any questions?

The morning after...

2010-05-10T16:29:00.000-07:00

(double click to enlarge image)

Open Studios was a great, weekend long party! Said goodbye to several of my favorite paintings - happy they are finding good homes.

As I looked around the gallery, it occurred to me that visitors may wonder if I'm not a bit schizophrenic: a photorealistic white tulip, an loosey-goosey landscape - or, like "Just a Whisper" (left ), an impressionistic piece with abstract tendencies, all coming from one painter?

Eventually a couple folks did ask about the varied range of styles and I tried to explain it with music: one day I'll put on something quiet, soft and classical - a strong quarter or acoustic guitar; the next day I could be blasting Brazilian jazz. Viva la' difference I always say....

SO - if you ever have an idea for new subjects that I might want to tackle - send them along!

Thanks to ALL who helped make these Open Studios such a fun experience.

Day 1 - Open Studio (more tomorrow)

2010-05-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

Today was a blast! My two painting pals (Patti and Patricia) and I shared the "Underground Gallery" -- part of a 40-studio labyrinth -an amazing space.

Lots of visitors - old friends came by, also met many new people...and made several sales which always feels good. Tomorrow, Mother's Day, we'll be at it again 11-6. Our work stays up through the end of May. Come-on by.

See yesterday's blog for OS details -

2010-05-07T17:43:00.000-07:00

OK - another one ready for the show.

White Poppies- 40 x 30. Acrylic.

I need to learn how to photo. In real life, there's no shadow on the bottom of the piece. Very light and colorful white.

See below for time etc. of Open Studios. Come-on-by.

Reminder: May 8 & 9 OPEN STUDIOS Win $2500 worth of art

2010-05-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

What's not to like? Open Studios May 8th and 9th. Plus a chance to win $2500 worth of art, food, music and lots of fun - OH MY!

Check out the raffle - http://www.marinarts.org/ then click on the raffle link. GOOD LUCK!

I'll have a few brand new pieces, work from my February show and a special bin of studio staples. Originals and prints. Come-on-down! 1337 4th Street, San Rafael. 11:00 - 6:00 both days.

Thought I'd try something new - here's a sample: "Whisper, II" . The photo is not great; I took it outside this afternoon - so some shadows and darker than the real painting. I need to get a professional image of it soon. But it gives you an idea.

Two May Events

2010-04-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

(double click image to see visuals from 3 artists)
Join us! At the Underground Gallery in Art Works Downtown 1337 4th Street, San Rafael

I: Marin Open Studios May 8 & 9 11:00 - 6:00 (fun Mother's Day outing)

- Underground Gallery at Art Works Downtown (studios, galleries).

II: Second Friday Art Walk May 14 5:00 - 8:00

visit the labyrinth of art studios at AWD then tour various venues along 4th St,

including Donna Seager Gallery and Crome Architecture and other art hosting shops.

Both events include hosted receptions.

Eggsactly!

2010-04-03T17:03:00.000-07:00

'tis the season - for coloring eggs, hiding eggs, finding eggs and.... painting eggs! I hope you are enjoying the brief but wonderful sunshine, spring flowers and all things fresh and beautiful.

Had a great albeit small, group class today at Drake High. What we lacked in size these "kids" made up in enthusiasm! GO NEWBIES! They also gave me some excellent feedback -- changes I will incorporate in future classes.

These little paintings: harmonious colored eggs - acrylic on gessoed archival french watercolor paper with deckled edges. 5x7" What to name them?!! Any suggestions?

Correction - ooops

2010-04-02T16:37:00.001-07:00

I apologize, the Riley store sale is longer than 5 days. I got it confused with another "5 day only" notice I received this week. Check out the flyer I sent (below) for full run time. silly ol' me.

Just an FYI for the local yokes...

2010-04-02T14:35:00.000-07:00

If you live in Marin or Sonoma, or even SF - I just got an email about a huge 5-day sale at Riley Street Art Supply (4th Street, San Rafael - and at their Santa Rosa store too). Very good prices on paints, canvases etc. Thought I'd pass info along. I won't do this often - but you can sign up directly with them to get these notices. Happy Painting! http://www.rileystreet.com/

Saturday workshop -

2010-03-31T08:17:00.000-07:00

Wow time flies. Saturday (Apr 3) I'll teach another "Get Ready to Paint" - an orientation for novice painters!" session. It's been a popular class and I love meeting folks who are setting out on this new adventure. We'll meet at Sir Francis Drake High School, 10-2:00. There are still a couple places left. If you know anyone that might be interested learning about and trying out basic tools and materials needed for oil or acrylic painting - they can show up and register there - or contact Tam District Com. Ed. Join us!

"Painting Tidbits" ...

2010-03-25T22:28:00.000-07:00

What are these !? you ask. After my classes, students write with questions. Got me thinking about sharing painting tidbits here from time to time – with a visual when practical.

To kick this off, a bit about brushes, those commonly used with acrylics and oils: rounds, brights, filberts, the palette knife... and one of my faves – the Big Stubby Round.

The pictures here are 'details' from a large 40x60” painting in progress - selected to show different effects these clever brushes offer:. (double click image to see large view)

Top left: the red, bluish and white horizontal lines were done with a round brush - long handle; I stood back always from easel. Paint dried between each layer (there are many many layers of paint on this piece). For the white line, the brush was pretty dry with out-of-tube paint; for the bluish line - there was a bit more water with the paint so it flowed and made a smother line . fyi-Sometimes after the paint sets up a bit I take a damp towel over my finger and rub out some of the line so it isn't too uniform (from length and/or width).

Top left and just below: the ochre gold flat surfaces and the bumpy white marks were made with paint (no water) spread with palette knife over older layers of paint.

Picture on right: a bigger view that includes the first pic. combo of the round, the palette and a very large filbert.

Bottom pic: This is one corner of the big painting. All the negative space (white cloudy area) was built with layer over thin layer using 'big stubby brush' -i.e. washes of white and water. Sometimes a little thicker. You can see faint vein-like color lines showing through.

The process with this type of painting is very organic. When in doubt – pick up a new brush and wipe something out or add something new – It's a blast!

So let me know if materials and paintings tips are helpful. I welcome your input - just click on "comments' and tell me what other topics you may want to know about.... I've got a few lined up for the next couple of weeks.

Happy Painting!

Coming up Friday..

2010-03-23T20:49:00.000-07:00

...Falkirk Cultural Center hosts their Annual Bay Area Exhibit juried by Donna Seager, owner of the Donna Seager Art Gallery.

Friday night is the opening reception (5:30 - 7:30). Lots of fun work on display from a variety of artists - like yours truly :-) Drop by if you have time. They'll even have some little treats to lure you in.

This is the 'sister' of the one in the show.

"Birthday Tulips:" - 20x20, oil.

1000th Painting!

2010-03-22T20:22:00.000-07:00

Today a artist friend posted her 1000th Painting! Carol Marine, a painter in Texas, has been painting and posting her work for a long while.

In Art & Fear, there is a wonderful passage. A pottery class is divided into w parts. Half the students are charged with making as many pots as they can; the more pots- the better the grade. The other half is asked to make only one pot but it should be perfect. At the end of the term, it turns out the pots made by those who went for quantity - turned out the most exquisite pots of all! They learned from their trial, error and experimentation. So....

...Enjoy the process --and good things will come. You can see Carol's 6x6" 1000th gem at http://carolmarine.blogspot.com/

Happy Painting

Six new painters!

2010-03-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

Six cool students! What a great bunch we had yesterday.

Our Riley's group included total art novices as well as some who have have worked in other mediums - watercolor, sketching, photography etc.--all curious about acrylic or oil painting. Time sped by - and felt jam-packed, at least to me.

If I'm lucky, the April 3rd Tam District class will be half as much fun! OK - back to painting....yahoo!

For what it's worth....

2010-03-20T11:08:00.001-07:00

I've just learned about a fellow who makes frames at unbelievably low prices. He contacted me and other artists here in Marin & Sonoma. Haven't tried him out yet but I did watch his video - seems to really know his stuff. I often use shadow-box frames - they set work of nicely and then your buyer can replace the frame with a style that best fits their decor, if they so choose. Again, I've not yet tried him, but will. Thought I'd pass this along. Ted Gross

http://paintersframer.com/

a tip about a canvas sale

2010-03-19T22:18:00.000-07:00

Just read one of my emails and - FYI - Riley Street Art Supply is having a huge canvas sale starting Saturday. Thought I'd share the tip. M

The TIme has Come - Finally!

2010-03-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

After being postponed from Jan, it's finally time for "Get Ready to Paint" - an orientation for totally novice painters. Tomorrow (3/20) is the big day. Can't wait to meet these new painters!

I'm always amazed that no matter how much I try to pack in - it is only the 'tip of the iceberg'. But after sharing some basics my goal is to make folks more comfy when they walk into their first actual painting session.

Tomorrow's class is at Riley Street Art Supply (info below). The one on April 3 is at Sir Francis Drake High on April 3rd through Tam District Community Ed. If you think of someone who would enjoy a 'peek at what painting' is about, let them know.

If you can't make the class - but are curious about painting, just get a few basic colors of acrylic paint - a couple brush, a tub of water - and GO FOR IT! All playing with paint is good - for skill building ...and for the soul!

Classes - Mar 20 or Apr 3

2010-03-11T16:38:00.001-08:00

"Get Ready to Paint".

Novices, this is for you!

Get the scoop and then sign-up for your first painting class (oil or acrylic) feeling confident instead of anxious.

We'll cover BRUSHES / SOLVENTS/ MEDIUM/ SUPPORTS / CLEANING/CARE & COLOR MIXING. You'll go home with exercises you can do before your first class.

Contact me for the Mar 20 class; Contact Tam District Adult Ed for Apr 3 class. Email or comment here with your observations or questions. If you know someone who has been wanting to paint but is self-conscious or hesitant - pass this along.

Birthday Tulips

2010-03-09T07:50:00.000-08:00

The little ladies on left were just jury selected for the Falkirk Cultural Center's Artists Exhibit. Yeah! 3/26 - 5/ 29. I tend to paint slow; this set a record. One day - before they drooped! A gift from hubby. awww...

Fragile Tulip

2010-03-05T08:04:00.001-08:00

Marty wrote to ask if I had done any other white tulips. I did a few years ago - and it now lives in Southern California :-) Click the flower to see up close and personal.

Fragile Tulip 12x12" Oil.

White Tulip

2010-03-01T22:16:00.000-08:00

This delicate tulip was a challenge but very rewarding to paint. Soft layers of translucent glaze over colorful shades of white.

Oil on canvas, 10x10. Framed in a shadow-box style light walnut frame. $350 includes tax & shipping.

Update on SLO class

2010-02-24T22:20:00.000-08:00

School = lots of hard work; some very rewarding moments - some failures to be sure.

Don't have a camera here so I'm posting an older painting (my dear friend Michael owns this one) since it's similar to what we worked on today: refining techniques: composition, values, focal points. Hope to post a couple 'winners' next week when I get home.

"Winter Pears" - oil on canvas; 12x12.

Won't be long

2010-02-22T23:08:00.000-08:00

Spring is not far off. This was a fun little painting to do -acrylic on French archival paper. 5x7" Getting into the soon-to-be Spring - easter-egg hunts mood. What to call it? Any ideas?

Writing to you from the Art Center in San Luis Obispo. One of the best ways to stay fresh is to hunker down a couple times a year with a bunch of other painters in an intensive week-long workshop. Painting 9:00 - 5:00, 5 days hones skills, gets the creative juices flowing. Should come home with at least a couple new pieces and lots of new ideas. Will share what I've picked up at my March class and April classes.

Thanks to ALL

2010-02-14T17:16:00.000-08:00

A huge thank you to my friends and family who came out to support my Valentine's Day solo exhibit reception. It meant so much to have you all turn out!

It was a great afternoon. The sun shown on beautiful Sausalito and people were buzzing with good energy while they viewed the art, snacked on treats, and visited with me and each other. Quite a nice turnout. A memorable day for me; especially nice to find new homes for some of my art!

Happy Valentine's Day, Mary

February Solo Show - Sausalito

2010-01-10T12:49:00.000-08:00

Come visit!

I will be having a solo show at Sausalito Presbyterian Church the month of February. They present local artists' exhibits throughout the year in their lovely gallery/social center.

Reception: February 14th , 10:30 - 2:30.

Other times to visit: Sundays in February - 9:00 - 11:30

Parking lot is small; additional parking on street.

Any suggestions?

2010-01-06T22:29:00.000-08:00

Would love your input! If you were about to take your very first painting class - what would you like to know before you start painting?

Just go to the bottom of this new post, click the word comments - and you can type in your idea.

"Get Ready to Paint" class is being designed especially for folks who want to start painting but feel a bit overwhelmed about walking into their first class.

We'll cover tips that I wished I'd known when I started painting ( like how to prepare your canvas, clean your brushes, how to use 'turps', palette choices etc). I'm sure I've forgotten half of what I didn't know. That's where you come in.

So -send along your ideas - and I'll add them to the program.

And if you know someone who might like this course - let them know.

Riley's -Fourth Street, San Rafael - January 31st

Tam District Community Ed - April 10th

Can't wait to hear your suggestions.

Mary

p.s. you can read others comments by clicking on same comment link.