Cheater

"Trio", oil on canvas, 22" x 28"

I am a big cheat. Getting lost on my computer yesterday (I would say "Surfing the Web", but that sounds so late '90's, no?) I came across this gorgeous picture of pears, and couldn't help myself; I had to paint it. Basically I violated several rules of what I know to be truths in the world of art: don't paint from a photograph, always create your own composition, and... well, I'm sure there's another in there too. Part of me is a little weary of breaking these rules, but the rest of me thinks, "Who Cares?!"

I think it is safe to assume at this point that I love a good pear to paint, and these were gorgeous. And who cares that they are completely out of season? The prominent yellow in the greens give these pears just as much life as the rest of the Summer harvest, and I added the plum color in the back ground to really bring it out. I also enjoyed adding more contrast (set with the burnt umbers), allowing more of the forms to pop!, regardless of the fact that I smoothed all edges of each pear.

So yes, I painted from a photograph that intrigued me, and made it my own. I hope that my spin on these lush pears intrigues you too.

"Trio" is currently available at Urban Cottage, in Atlanta, GA.EMAIL ME

Summer Show

"Tomato, Tomato", oil on canvas, 20" x 24"

On Thursday, July 22nd, I am having a show at my parents' home on Mobile Bay (Mark your calendars: Thursday, July 22nd Wine Reception 5-8pm, and the following day, Friday, July 23rd is an open house, from 10am-5pm) honoring all that is Summer on the Bay when it comes to nature's abundance.

Most of my work is inspired by the fruit stand that is located about 1/2 mile from their house. Off the side of the road, in a small tent that is the only lick of shade in a 1/2 mile radius, this fruit stand never fails to be over following with the most gorgeous watermelons, tomatoes, peaches, and blueberries, and a cheerful farmer to greet you (Yes, if it weren't for the blasting A/C in my honda my dizziness from the heat would lead me to believe that it actually was a mirage).

Regardless, I think my mother must visit this little slice of fruit heaven at least 3 times a week, because every time I visit the bay house her counter seems to be covered in her fruit stand finds, to the point that I am led to believe she gets half the fruit stand every time she goes. Thus, to me this means Summer, and my upcoming show is fruit painted in my usual style, like the painting above: single subject, up close, and almost graphic. However, I plan to cover the walls in fruit paintings, pairing similar types together, to make my own fruit stand.

So, dear bloggers, please join me in a couple of weeks over the bay to visit and take home your own slice of Summer.

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