What to do... what to do...

Well... things have certainly changed in the last month... I am very blessed to be home and healthy with my family.  Being somewhat of an introvert, I find I am kind of used to spending time on my own, working on projects.  I do miss work, teaching the kids and getting out of the studio was a nice change of pace.  Hopefully we can all get back to our own 'normal' soon!

My attempt at creating a night time painting, with lights

I have been doing lots of cleaning, baking, homework nagging and a few paintings.  I have also been trying to improve on my 'weak' areas of painting - and it seems like there are several!  In doing so I have been sketching more and watching some instructional videos.  There are many great artists putting out instructional / on-line videos.  Streamline Art Videos have been my favourite so far.  Every day, they show a free 45 min to 1.5 hour portion of an instructors video.  If you like what you see you can buy and download an on-line full length version.  I had purchased Brian Blood, Shelby Keefe and Mike Hernandez in the past few years.  Today I downloaded Christine Lashley, to help me learn how to do night lighting effects.  Very informative! Although it may seem pricey - considering the cost of getting to a workshop is several times more expensive - I feel it is worth it.  I can pause and play it SEVERAL times, which I have done with all of them.  James Gurney is another favourite, he has tons of free stuff on his YouTube channel, including lots of outdoor - plein aire painting tips.  Happy painting and stay safe!

Art Books I Love

 I recently purchased a new art book on sketching, by R.E. Scott.  I was not disappointed and have been practising sketching more every day.

 As I have continued to paint I realize the importance of having really great drawing skills, so I keep trying to improve.

I have about 3 shelves of art books, many are 'coffee table' style ones with paintings by and info about my favourite artists (Sorolla, Group of Seven, Wyeth) or my favourite style of art (impressionism).  However, I have a core group of art books that I have referred to several times, cause they are just so darn helpful.  Below is a photo of my FAVS - Charles Reids Watercolor Secrets
- Richard Schmid Alla Prima II  - Carol Marine  Daily Painting  -  John Carlson Carlsons Guide to Landscape Painting - James Gurney Color and Light - Kevin MacPherson Fill Your Oil Paintings with Light& Color - Landscape Painting Inside and Out. I think it is important to be a life-long learner in whatever it is you enjoy.  Now, being isolated from all our friends and daily tasks, is a great time to occupy your mind with something more uplifting.  So order that book you've been wanting!!