Every once in a while, art lovers will challenge my artistic ability with a request for a commissioned painting.  I never shy away from this creative opportunity. While initially excited and honored, however, I do experience a moment (several moments, really) of complete PANIC.  Then I get over it, and get to work.

It is an honor to be asked to create an art piece, and typically the requested painting will have special significance to the client.  The only reason panic enters the scenerio is the realization that the clients need to have their desires completely fulfilled, blended merrily with my painting style.  From the beginning, communication needs to be established.  This is not always easy.  But recently, I had dreamy clients…

Earlier this year, a lovely military couple asked me to create a painting honoring the squadron that the husband had recently commanded in the United States Air Force.  Gifts to squadrons are common for commanders to give at the end of their command. I have known this couple for years (they came to my second art show in Tucson in 1997!).  I knew that they had complete faith in my ability.  I was thrilled, but I was still scared.

This particular squadron is the heart and soul of support for successful flights of the fabulous A-10 Thunderbolt II, otherwise known as the Warthog.  I understand the significance of this squadron, because my husband has flown the tank-killing Warthog for almost 20 years.  So how to begin?

First, with my personal photographs and some contemplation of why this aircraft is exemplary (in my personal opinion, the 30 mm Gatling Gun and fierce Flying Tiger art, of course!).  Second, sketch and plan.  Make sure the squadron patch is dominant (upper left-hand corner), and that each flight of hard-working men and women is represented (the seven badges across the bottom), creating a uniform celebration of the 23RD OSS. Finally, get over the fear and get the brush on the canvas.  AND, keep updating the client with my progress.

I was happy to have artistic freedom on this painting.  I kept the clients in the creation loop weekly and enjoyed feedback, which led to success.  When did my fears subside?  Gradually with each brushstroke, but not until they unwrapped the painting in Georgia several weeks ago, and they shared their love and appreciation for my hard work and pretty much kick-ass painting (yes, I can say that NOW!).

Commissions are a beautiful challenge for any artist.  Artists love them, but WILL lose sleep over them (just ask my husband), but only because we are passionate about our work.  However, with communication and artistic freedom from the client, there will be great success, and with that, I am always excited to deliver the final masterpiece.

Artists are constantly looking for subject matter.  How many times have we seen the same thing painted, over and over again?!  A music series sounded light and refreshing, yet out of my comfort zone.  I enjoy music, and I have great appreciation for musicians because I have never played an instrument.  I envy musicians, and I envied my kids for their ability to pick up guitar, piano and violin, seemingly with ease.   I painted Jam for my son.  His accoustic and electric guitars are interwined, overlapping and tied together with his favorite color combination:  black and RED.  His guitar instructor taught him mainly Beatles music. I love the movement and energy in this piece. To me, it screams, “Rock N Roll!”

I treated the piano differently, however.  I wanted to celebrate the stark contrast of the black and white keys, and reflect the purity of it’s sound with movement.  When you look inside the piano, there is so much more than meets the eye.  Look closely, and you will discover my play with paper.  Do you get it?

My goal for these two paintings was to portray the feeling that each may incite.  On the left, you will find Hot Strings painted in warm colors, respecting the high sounds and warm energy of the violin.  On the right, Cool Blues is treated in cool colors, honoring the soothing jazz that the sax produces.  Instruments are made with such intricate care and attention to detail.  This is to be assumed, but since I studied the violin and saxophone for the collage pieces above,  I have so much more appreciation for the craftsmanship necessary for their creation and eventual performance!

Note:  With the exception of Jam, all paintings in this post are available at Brath and Hughes Fine Art Gallery, Mechanicsburg PA.

My intrigue with mixed media (in my case, paper and paint) began with the Vegas painting featured on the home page of my website.  You can see the subject, yet if you look closely, many hidden treasures are found within the collage.  Lately, I have been working in similar fashion with a series of ladies.  My muses were chosen for their importance to me and/or their symbolism to the world.

The painting above, Peaceful Provocation of the Imagination, was inspired by my daughter, Catherine.  She loves to read and quite often, she is quietly buried in a book.  At times, my husband and I would worry that she was avoiding her family or not adjusting well to her new school.  Truly, she was just being Catherine, the literature lover.  I decided to celebrate her passion for books with a painting.  In it, her hair is wildly floating as words excitedly create images in her mind.  A pile of books anxiously awaits her attention. You will find a small four-legged friend in the background doorway, symbolic of those who were missing her affections.   Catherine may have inspired this painting, but fellow bibliophiles may enjoy their own interpretation.

Don’t be fooled. Divine Magic is not just a painting of the Mary, the mother of Jesus.  I am Catholic, but it is not intended to be a “Catholic-only” painting, even though many would make that assumption.  There are many layers of paper, images and words submersed in the paint.  This painting is the story of the chaos (her dress) in our lives and world, and the fact that no matter our beliefs, someone greater is looking out for us (her large stature).  Our protector is real, however may be only regarded as a symbol or legend in our lifetime.  The face is veiled with words, depicting an opaque spirituality.  Arms are open and welcoming.  A cape resembles cold concrete, but it’s strength envelopes the chaos.  A small earth symbolizes the enormous depth of our universe, the large moon illuminates brightness in the dark. Traditional iconic treatment of golden halos and angels are depicted.  Too much information?  There is more to share, but I will leave it for you to discover. Zoom in. Contemplate it closely. Develop your own interpretation.  And next time you are at an art museum or show, explore the masterpieces a little more closely.  Give them your own story.

Now…to my next muse…

While living in Las Vegas, and teaching at Art Starts Here, I was incredibly fortunate to teach a class of amazing teenagers…all girls, all motivated, all art-loving.  My Monday night teen class was truly one of the highlights of my week.  I could often relate to these young ladies.  They were dedicated to their art work and studio time.  Daily, they were living in awkward-new-teenager land, and trying to figure it out.  None of them knew eachother at the beginning of the school year, when classes began.  They were friends and confidants by the end.  I overheard hilarious conversations.  I listened to their concerns. I heard funny stories about their parents, which helped me justify my parenting of my own new teen. As they would work and talk, I quietly learned an abundance about present-day teen stuff, including social issues, music, social networking, fashion, schooling, unhappiness and surprises.  These were all kids who I would label as “good girls”, striving to be individuals in a world of diversity and pressure. By year’s end, I had respect and an enormous place in my heart for each and every one of them…all for different reasons.   They were an amazing blessing and I was sad to leave them behind when my family moved to Georgia (and selfishly, I didn’t want another art teacher to take my place in their classes…).

But then my life surprised me and gave me another set of blessings upon my arrival in Georgia. Two lovely, teenaged sisters patiently push their artistic limits one day a month under my guidance.   C and C are level-headed and motivated, another set of “good girls”.  They are dedicated and talented, and they are completely comfortable in their own skin, which is completely reflected in their art work!  I simply cannot describe how much I enjoy our morning of art instruction.  They inspire me. By simply observing their demeanor, I have learned to relax, take risks, be true to myself in my own art, and in my life, for that matter.  Who would think a grown woman would learn about life from the teens she teaches?   Quite frankly, I do.

Our society does not often think of the benefits teachers receive from their students.  Usually, it’s expected and/or demanded to be the other way around. I feel blessed to teach art, but even more blessed from the simple life lessons  and inspiration I receive from my students every time I teach.  The amazing artistic creations that my students always develop in my classes are incredible and awesome.  What I learn from my students, however, is sometimes far more rewarding.

Note: To enjoy more pictures of C and C’s artwork, please visit my Photos of Lessons and Workshops page

We question our actions at times.  Why do I create, paint, draw, teach, etc?  Why not get a desk job in an office, make more money, and … be content?  Naturally, in my years fresh out of school, I wanted to paint for shows, commission, sales.  Nothing is wrong with that.  Money does, indeed, motivate.  But I still had to work full time to pay the bills.  An annual sale and commission or two over the last several years has been nice, but more for my recognition than my pocket book.  As I have grown, I have a new outlook on why I create.  And it’s not all about money.

Last spring, I had my first solo show in years.  I spread the word, invited friends, family, acquaintances galore.  I was happy with my paintings, but even more so, ecstatic to share my talents, and excited to see what kind of responses my work would receive.

My anticipation grew as friends showed interest, promised they would attend.  The evening of the show had a nice turnout.  My work was well recieved.  I sold several paintings.  I really can’t complain. But at the end of the night, I was truly disappointed that many good friends who had promised to attend were no shows.  Why the disappointment?  Because, frankly, I share my work to spread joy, excitement, surprise in the eyes of the viewer.  That makes it all worthwhile.  Supposedly, Van Gogh sold one painting during his lifetime.  I have surpassed that.  However, to see someone experience and enjoy my work, that is satisfying for my creative soul.  Selfishly, I had been depending on these friends to fulfill my need for artistic acceptance.  I should have been finding it within myself.

Last December, I decided that I needed a different goal for my 2013 artwork.  The CReATe Happiness Project 2013 was born.  I determined that I would share my art with friends and strangers, confidentially and on tiny canvases, for the sole purpose of spreading a little joy, to bring a smile, to let someone know that someone is thinking about them.  Art for the sake up uplifting others.  Happiness that I may never see, but great satisfaction I will gain in sharing.

This, my friends, is why I create.

Key to FREEdom

Election years always stir up great debate and patriotism, and we are reminded how great it is to be American.  The ongoing struggles our great country faces often dim in comparison to the severe conflict and devastation in so many other countries around the globe.  I am super proud and super lucky to be an American. I am free to make my own choices regarding my religion, my education, my speech, my clothing, my employment, my meals…and the list goes on.  I think every family should have Old Glory hanging in their home, simply to remind us of our country’s powerful history and presence, and as a symbol of our good fortune.

In the 1950’s, American Artist Jasper Johns created a series of paintings of the American Flag. They were viewed as confusing and controversial, as the flag was an object to be revered and respected, but not painted.  Johns, however, just wanted the viewer to make their own interpretation. I don’t have a problem with that…as a matter of fact, I like that idea very much.  Doesn’t the American flag symbolize something different for each and every American?

Embrace HopE

Cairo, Egypt is the home to several of our family members.  At present, it is a country faced with daily crisis and turmoil.  Several months ago, the American Flag at the American Embassy was torn down and burned. I know my niece and nephew are safe from from the rioting and danger. I know they are enjoying experiences and adventures that most American children never will.  I felt it was the opportune time to send them each their very own Stars and Stripes, to be a reminder of their roots, their rights, their birthplace, their freedom. They may not live in the United States for many years due to their father’s employment, however, in whatever country they find themselves, they will have a symbol of their history and good fortune to be American. Merry Christmas, E and D!  I hope you hang your Stars and Stripes with pride. 

I adore texture…whether it be a plush pillow, mosaic table top, a rattan chair, or faux fur blanket, I love to explore and experience textures.  My mother pointed this out to me one day, while we browsed Pottery Barn. I had been complaining to her that my son touches EVERYTHING when we walk into a store.  But there I was, running my hands across every fabric and piece of furniture in the store, without even realizing it.  I suppose my son inherited his strange curiosity from me (my mother smiled and suggested that, as well).  It’s not surprising that I love to work with different materials and add texture to my work.

Recently, I have incorporated paper to my paintings.  I became interested in collage techniques last year.  My experiments led to the creation of Welcome to Fabulous, my painting of the Vegas Sign on the home page of my website.  If you look closely, this painting incorporates my own photographs, playing cards, and a variety of pre-printed papers.  Just like other materials, paper can be a beautiful addition to a piece of art work, adding interest, surprises, movement, and texture to the piece.

Paper and layers of paint led to the success of my latest painting, Inherited Optimism.  This painting was created in four overlapping layers.  The first simple step was to paint the background. 

After that, I applied torn paper for each individual state, attempting to give each it’s own personality and some texture.

The third step included blocking out the word “dream” and relief printing the background stripes (my way of adding the spirit of Old Glory) with acrylic paint and corrugated cardboard – adding more great texture!!

The final step was to dry brush paint “dream” as if it is floating, without covering up the image underneath.   After contemplating the results, I added dry brush color to emphasize the American Flag.The surface texture of Inherited Optimism is curiously diverse and interesting…makes you want to run your hand across the surface… it’s certainly tempting to me…

It’s hard to know at what point in my life I began my journey as an artist.  As far back as I can remember into my childhood, I loved to draw and paint.  I have memories of painting glass jars with model paint, creating landscapes in oils (never very successfully), doodling and drawing, creating whenever time allowed.  I anxiously awaited birthdays and Christmas mornings, excited to see what new art supplies might surprise me inside gift-wrapped boxes.  My parents were always supportive.  I think they knew that art would always be a huge part of who I AM.  I neglected art at times in my life, put it on the back burner to do other things.  I left for college intending to study art and pursue a teaching career.  I changed my course, headed into the legal field, and worked as a litigation paralegal.  Early on, I could balance painting with a full time job.  I had two successful shows.  But then life got more exciting and complicated (as it often does in our twenties) and my brushes were shelved. It’s been an interesting path, complete with an active duty Air Force husband, three children, and six moves across the country so far…I wouldn’t change a thing.  My life has come full circle back to teaching and creating. I began to teach art two years ago at a wonderful studio in Las Vegas.  In that studio, and with the encouragement of family and friends, I rediscovered my energy and drive, to create, educate and share my passion.  I guess you can say, I have restarted….