Autumn Pond

Autumn Pond

6" x 8", pastel
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The photo reference for this painting was taken several years ago when I was preparing to take a workshop with Richard McKinley, the guru of pastel. Didn't use it in that workshop, but decided that it was a great photo to paint now. Can you tell I am ready for the the cooler autumn weather?

I was trying to use my new set of Terry Ludwig pastels for this painting, but I have to get a lighter touch to use those soft pastels to start off a painting. So.........my first attempt was washed off with alcohol! Yes, you read that right, I washed the original painting into the sanded paper with rubbing alcohol. This allowed me to create a new painting over a beautiful, warm underpainting!

Awesome Workshop

Guadalupe Fall Color

12 x 6, pastel

Had the privilege of taking a workshop with Richard McKinley in Minneapolis August 20-22; learned so much. The knowledge he possesses is just amazing, plus he is so willing to share it with all who are interested, gracious to all. I would highly recommend his workshop.

This painting was begun on the second day. The base was a watercolor underpainting. I was so apprehensive prior to the workshop, worrying that I could not paint to the level of the other students. There were so many fabulous artists in the group, but I think I did OK, very pleased with the progress and knowledge gained there.

Now to put it into practice!! More to follow!

Comal Spring

Comal Spring

6 x 6, pastel

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My sweet husband registered me for a Richard McKinley pastel workshop for my birthday last year. It was quite an undertaking to get me in; Richard McKinley's workshops fill instantly. I love his style, so loose and lovely, something I struggle to achieve. I don't hint at leaves on the trees, I pretty near paint every one.

So I purchased a video by Richard McKinley, in order to get my self more accustomed to his style prior to the workshop this August. Comal Spring is my first attempt in this style. I know, it looks fairly detailed but believe me, there are a ton more rocks on that path, and blades of grass and (well, you get the picture).

Just a reminder to drop by the Corridor of Art, 700 Lavaca, Austin, M-F during business hours (9-5) and check out the paintings of the Austin Pastel Society Show. You can also join us March 30 from 3-5pm for the awards reception. Parking will be free on that Sunday. Just take the elevator to the lower level and you exit in the Corridor.

Exploring the Process

Untitled

8 x 8, pastel

This was my second painting I attempted way back on November 19. I was enjoying just getting the pigment on the paper, exploring the painting process. I used the same design/subject that I had used in Marla Baggetta's workshop. The result---not every completed painting is a piece worthy to be framed. Sometimes it is just a learning experience, a chance to try something out of the ordinary to see what does and does not work.

That hits sort of hard for me. You see I am a pretty frugal painter, if a watercolor doesn't work, just turn it over and paint on the other side! That is not an option with pastel paper. One of the great pieces of wisdom/advice Richard McKinley shared with me is that I should use pastels over a watercolor underpainting or over an unsuccessful watercolor painting. Now that was a piece of advice I liked--one sheet of watercolor paper used front, back and then one more time!

Guadalupe Horseshoe

6 x 8, pastel

As wonderful as the trip to Asheville, NC was, it is good to get back to painting. I had started this little painting prior to the trip and was thinking it was going to be a dud, a wash off. But I got back into it yesterday, like Richard McKinley told me, "Get in and play with the medium", I did. I am pleased with this one, which is unusual, because I struggle horribly with landscapes. Hoping the upcoming Marla Baggetta workshop will help with that problem.

The reference for this painting is a photo from last fall. The colors were beautiful. I was so excited when I saw them.

I Am So Blessed!

APS National Juried Exhibition

judge, Richard McKinley, PSA

 





That is Richard McKinley critiquing my painting, "Bountiful Harvest" during the walk through prior to the awards reception last night. He was so complimentary in his comments about my painting, that I became a tad emotional. It was such an awesome moment! I am kicking myself that I did not video it with my phone, but as you can see, I wasn't able to get too close to the action.

I was just thrilled to have him say really nice things about the painting. But it got even better!!! I won a Merit Award for the painting!!!!!!!!!!!! I have had so many "firsts" these last 4 months, but I think this may just take the cake. I have been blessed beyond my wildest expectations--recognition for my efforts after only 8 months of painting seriously in pastel is surreal.



The Very First!!!

Bountiful Harvest     (10 x 8, pastel)

I was notified today that this painting has been accepted to The Appalachian Pastel Society's 2012 Juried National Exhibition!!!! This painting was one of 74 paintings out of 230 submitted that was selected by the juror, Richard McKinley, PSA, PSWC-DP, NPS. It will be displayed October 18 - December 14, 2012 at The Asheville School Gallery in Asheville, North Carolina.

This is my first ever acceptance into a juried show!!! I have to thank Rita Kirkman (check out her blog, Rita Kirkman's Daily Paintings) for the workshop that ignited my desire/ability to work in pastel and for encouraging me to enter shows outside of our local gallery. I also have to thank Angie Banta Brown (check out her web site) for years of instruction, encouragement and friendship, helping me to get to this point in my art experience!!!