I have a confession about watercolor. I’ve avoided embracing them. I thought of myself as a pastelist and oil painter. My domain was not watercolor. Of course, in retrospect, this makes no sense. Over the years as an illustrator, I did my share of work in watercolor and became a more than competent draftsman. As …
I’m not sure whether artists, on the whole, see the world a little differently. Maybe yes, maybe no. When you’re a fish, it’s hard to see the water, so it’s difficult for me to know for sure. I do know that when I’m in the company of other artists, I have things to talk about …
I’ve just finished up a new online workshop, Still Life Oil Painting, so I’ve been wonderfully immersed in glittery, shiny objects. The workshop, coupled with the sparkle of the holidays has been a feast for my eyes! I grew up celebrating Christmas and my favorite part was sitting alone in our living room staring at …
Last year I had this sort of crazy idea that I would post a YouTube video on my channel every day for each of the twelve days of Christmas. Well, several issues came up, the first of which, what are the official 12 days of Christmas? Turns out it matters who you ask. There is …
I recently taught a painting workshop in Italy and a few days later was an art student for the first time in several years. I got to see a workshop from both sides. It was pretty eye opening for me. My workshop students were a varied bunch that came to Italy to take my workshop …
I was eighteen years old when I started Art Center; So young and naïve! I was the youngest student in all my classes. Most everyone had a degree from another college. There was only one other student that was nearly my age. He only lasted two trimesters. Art School went so quickly and there was …
Today was a perfect day in Portland, Oregon. From morning until evening the sun was shining and warming flowers, grass, and me! I was working inside, another day spent mostly at my computer desk as I’m in the midst of a push to get some new lessons completed, arranging travel for upcoming workshops and just …
I’m sitting in a restaurant in Lake Zurich, Illinois feeling quite satisfied with myself. I just finished teaching my three day “Loosen Up” workshop to a group of 15 eager and engaged artists. Wow, I’m tired, hungry and just a tiny bit cold, but couldn’t be happier. Another week when was fortunate to teach folks …
My Mom is going to hate this post but here goes. It’s been a dream of mine for many years to take off into the unknown and paint. I’m not sure what that means other than letting go of everything that feels safe and sound and getting in a car/RV and get painting. Two years …
Two years ago I was a demonstrator at IAPS. It was amazing; fun and challenging. There were lots of standout moments. Watching the paint around, doing my demonstrations, meeting with fellow instructors and students, to name just a few. IAPS is without a doubt the signature event for pastelists. I decided to take a break …
