Tuesday, July 26, 2011

working big

10x14 pastel
10x14 pastel

Plein air painting is a passion of mine, and many other painters. There is nothing better than going out there, even when it is 95 degrees plus. Taking these smaller works and bringing them to the studio is a whole other animal, both have validity. Once when in NYC I was speaking with a gallery owner and he said that he did not prefer plein air work as he felt they are usually containing too much information. Back then I felt shocked, but now, years later I know what he meant.  That brings me to my goal in the studio right now. Distill and reduce down to just the essence of the concept. That is why I felt my memory work was so much stronger than my plein air, distillation. So that is where I am now, early morning in the field and then the rest of the day in the studio- reducing. I am working very large (for me), two paintings:4 ftx 4ft and 2ftx 3ft. All the work comes from my favorite place (above).

On another note, I have decided how to reformat my blog.  Weeklies. Instead of my daily posting, every Monday you will see my new, juicier, post. This will allow more painting time for me, yet keep connections to all my blogger friends. ( I missed you.) So be sure to stop by. I will respond to comments, but my speed may not be as fast as I once was, due to my limited (self-imposed) computer time.
Tata, Loriann

Monday, July 18, 2011

visions from Washington






Hi everyone!

It has been a few weeks since my last post. Thank you to all for the very understanding comments and emails. I have kept my computer closed and have only allowed myself 5 minutes to answer emails. Due to my time changes I have had  at least 5 hours a day in the studio and the time to teach  a week long  (1/2 day) workshop. At night I  continue planning my new studio. Priorities.
As far as articulating my direction; my trip to Washington made me realize that my goal is to erase the superfluous from my work and distill it down to just what is essential. Sounds easy, eh? Not so for me.  In a few days or so I will share a little studio work, but for now I share a few from my time in La Conner, Orcas Island and San Juan Island. They are my more successful pieces...although not quite what I am aiming for, yet.
Thanks so much for your supportive words. Toodles for now!