Encore

You know of the Art Tour in Cheyenne called Art Design and Dine.    http://artdesigndine.org/ 
The tour has ended for the year to resume in April of 2013.  Jim at the Nagle Warren Bed and Breakfast has a marvelous venue for art so I asked if we could use the space for a show with the artists that have had work this past year on the Art Tour.  He said YES so plan to visit and see Encore.  http://www.naglewarrenmansion.com/  The Show opens January 1st and will run through March 2013.   But don't wait...go now and see the art of thirteen regional artists!

Artist Julie Nighswonger

Artitst Win Ratz



Artist Christi Beckmann

Photographer Don Edington

 

Other Artists included are Connnie Norman, Mack Brislawn, Jeanie Schlump, Gail Watford, Jennifer Rife, Do Palma, Dave Roswell, Georgia Roswell and Vanda Edington.   Don't miss this show!

Wyoming State Museum Store

Wyoming State Museum Store

The season has certainly gotten the best of my time related to art.  Most of the shows have ended for the month and January is waiting for new adventures.  Duck Barn Artisans had an excellent season.  The Mini-minis were a hit. 

We shopped at the Wyoming State Museum Store just b4 Christmas for some Wyoming gifts Kristin wanted for her Seattle friends.  Beth said she would love to see the Mini-mini pastel paintings.   Today I dropped by and she loved them.  If you missed seeing them at the Duck Barn you can now shop at the Museum Store. http://wyomuseum.state.wy.us/Shop/Index.aspx  You will also find the note cards, 5x7 so they could be framed or a perfect size for a long note.  

Mini-mini

Duck Barn at 315 W Lincolnway

Open 10-5 Monday through Saturday through December 15th.

 

 

I have had so much fun painting the little 2x3 mini pastels. 

 They begin with scraps of Wallis, used previously for a palette for a painting. 

 I scumble in the color a bit and away I go.

 

I typically paint from a small reference photo of a completed painting. 

 It helps me see basic shapes and simplify the composition. 

 I paint several at a time, though each one is an original.

 

 

 

.

I then sign, place in the little silver frames and wa-la ..

Be sure  to visit the Duck Barn and claim yours. 

You will find some other pastel paintings priced right for unique gift.

 

Tis the Season

Art Design & Dine at the Nagle Warren Venue the month of November
Gail Watford and Vanda Edington with Marvelous Miniatures and Masterpieces

Just as the Purely Pastel show came down I realized it is the season of art in Cheyenne. I have five locations to show and sell my pastel images. Check out the Locations Link for the details on each venue.

Art Design and Dine, Art Fest, The Duck Barn Artisans, The National Arts Program and the Cheyenne Artists Guild Member show and the Gift shop will all have my origianl pastels. Original art is a special gift as it has the essence of the artist and brings that energy to the person that chooses the piece.

 

I liked the post from Mary Baker and share her link http://www.marybakerart.com/originalart.html

Please visit all the venues that show original art in Cheyenne. Artists have a special piece of their soul to share with you.

 

Excuses

Mike and value viewer app

Well first it was hanging the show which was a smashing success. I did sell Stately Helianthus and I am delighted to have a painting in a new home to enLiven that space.  Then was the typical catch up of all that went undone getting ready for the show. Art Design and Dine had the monthly tour on the 13th and Don had his photography at the Nagle. There was the Perkins Art Group and of course Mahjong ... Oh did I mention our ten day driving trip to Reno, Seattle and home?  Yes excuses, however this weekend was an exceptional workshop with Mike Beeman at the Cheyenne Artist Guild.

Mike's touch can transform a clunker to a keeper. He has a relaxed style with demos and notes and then helps everyone with their paintings.  If you ever have a chance don't miss a lesson with Mike.

More news soon as next week Marvelous Miniatures and Masterpieces will be hung at the Warren Nagle gallery.  The Annual Art Fest is coming up and you will have to go to Duck Barn when they open November 17th.  I have some precious little mini-mini pastel paintings there along with a few larger pieces and note cards.  Please forgive me all my excuses.   Life does have a way of gobbling time. 

 


Beginning of a bird, second day


 

hydrangea.. needs more value

 

Small study started first day

 



See You Wednesday

Terrie Lombardi arranging the gallery

It is almost here!  The reception on Wednesday for Purely Pastel  begins at 7 PM in the small audotrium just adjacent to the Easter and John Clay fine Arts Gallery at LCCC.  Terrie and I are both excited to share our passion for pastel with her demo and my community painting.  After the demo plan to pick up a pastel and make your mark on the pastel paper in the gallery.  Let's see what we all create. 

If you miss the opening the show runs through October 17th.



Window for Purely Pastel at LCCC

Purely Pastel

    

Gorgeous 9x12

Many months ago I proposed a show called Purely Pastel to the Community College, our LCCC.  I was honored and thrilled they liked my concept of a show.  All the work will be in pastel and my teacher, Terrie Lombardi, will do a demo in pastel before the reception.  She will also show several of her pieces.  Because the exhibition is educating about pastel there is also a chance to see a slide show on how pastel is made and  learn about the pure pigment, pastel sticks and papers that combine to create the art work.  So save the date, Wednesday September 12th and join us at 7 PM in the Easter and John Clay Fine Arts Gallery.   See these pieces along with eighteen more through October 11.




Exquisite 8x10





WOW

Yes Works of Wyoming, WOW. http://www.worksofwyoming.org/  They opened a retail store last week. It was a fun day trip to wander that way, overland from Cheyenne.  We jumped in the Tundra around 9 AM and arrived before lunch.  Amazing scnery on the southside of I80.  We drove through the Remount Ranch and dropped down through the Hermosa tunnel and then emerged at Tie Siding and on to Laramie.  Ron and Wyn Ratz were also over for the grand opening so after making our mark on the canvas cloth had lunch next door with them.   

Wyn Ratz and Vanda Edington at WOW opening

We came back via Happy Jack road and Don photographed some scenery.  I loved the truck and may try it in pastel.  It is marking the entrance of the Bunkhouse Bar. 

Chek out WOW next trip to Laramie and don't forget our amazing little jewel at the Univerasity... The Art Museum.
http://www.uwyo.edu/artmuseum/

Terry Ludwig Pastels Garage Sale

Jeanne and Geoff sanding pastel sticks and Deb on quality

We visited Terry Ludwig Pastels Monday. http://www.terryludwig.com/terry-ludwig-bio
We were in Denver so needed to make the trip count.  Deb was zooming around keeping the entire organization in sync.  Terry's pastels are so lucious and velvety smooth.  We discovered some extra personnel and had a fun chat about the last step in creating the handmade pastels.  After the mold and drying, the sticks are gently sanded over a bucket of water.  Crisps up the edges and holds down the bit of dust.  Terry's son Geoff was helping out along with Mike and artist Jeanne Smith.  She had finished her workshop and stayed an extra day to volunteer in the backroom.  http://www.jeannesmithart.com/gallery.htm 

So the exciting news, this Saturday the 28th of July and if supplies last Monday the 30th, is the Garage Sale.  The seconds, with minor flaws, are on sale at less than half price.   Sure a good way to feed a pastel addiciton.   See the website for directions to the store. 

Workshops

Terri with the group critique 

Ten of us gathered at the Cheyenne Artist Guild to learn from Terrie Lombardi, her technique of under painting the pigment of pastel with turp along with using pastel in loose, juicy marks to create The Art of the Flower.   Terrie is from Denver and teaches in several venues so we are fortunate to have her make the trip to Cheyenne.

http://cheyenneartistsguild.blogspot.com/

The first day was a demo along with discussion of the elements of a good painting, a check list before a painting is finished and "Terrie Tips" to complement the lecture.  We all started a painting the first day.  The second day we painted the same reference photo three times.  First in two colors one for positive and one for negative space.  The second was a color for negative space and four values for the primary image.  The fourth painting was full color.  Great exercise to practice just seeing shapes and values.

Terrie's style is unique and exciting.  This piece is Governor's Mansion Turquoise Guard  You can see her work at Abend in Denver and Evergreen Fine Art.  She will also do a demo of her unique style at the Purely Pastel show in September at Laramie County Community College.  Save  the date, September 12, in the Fine Arts Theater.  She will show several pieces along with mine in the  Easter and John Clay Fine Art Gallery.

I Should Be Painting

Cesil Burnett

It is July 4th, Rebellion Day as my DIL puts it.  And I really should have stayed home to paint with the show at LCCC just two months away.  Instead we traveled through the smoky haze to Saratoga to see Art In the Valley, by Blackhawk Gallery.   The Rocky Mountains are burning all around us.  Blessed rain is in the forecast.  Cesil Burnett was there with her oil paintings.. the newest you may see next week as she will be at the Nagel Warren Mansion for Art Design & Dine.  http://artdesigndine.org/2012/06/22/cesil-bs-something-special-show/

I also met Karen Henneck, a pastel artist from Casper.  Her palette is glorious, and inspiring.  She shared tips on software and prints and we plan to meet again.  http://www.karenhenneck.com/index.html

Karen & Vanda at the Saratoga Art In The Valley

And to make the day complete shopped at Laura M's as she has an amazing little designer boutique next to the Blackhawk gallery. http://lauram.com/  


http://www.wyomingnews.com/articles/2012/07/02/news/20local_07-02-12.txt    for more about Laura and her charm.   All in all and inspiring day and I will paint tomorrow!  

Governor's Capitol Art Exhibition

Your are invited to see 70 pieces of art of Wyoming artists June 30 and July 1 at the Hynds building 1602 Capitol from 10 to 4:30.  The reception is at 5 PM on the 30th.   I am honored to be part of this show with my pastel.  There will be additional pieces for sale in the Artist's Alley.



http://wyomuseum.state.wy.us/cac/pdf/2012GCAEFinalShow.pdf

Autumn Again Pastel 9x12

Click the link to see a preview of all the art.

You may also vote for your favorite six pieces by email to David Newell  david.newell@wyo.gov

Tis the Season for Plein Air

Luscious Iris 9x12

Oh my gosh the gardens at Diane's home near Longmont, Colorado were magnificent.   She and her husband Ken moved here from Connecticut in their retirement and have created a colorful retreat.  The iris and poppies were every where!   Peonies abound and all against the backdrop of the Rockies to the west of their home.  She shared her gardens with seven of us to paint along with Terrie Lombardi, leading a Plein Workshop.  http://www.terrielombardi.com/ Some are dedicated to Plein Air all year round but late Spring is an ideal season to begin seeking the colors and textures in the open air.

Poppies Reign 9x12

These are two of my paintings from the workshop.  I have enough reference photos to do several more... Now for the time to create.

Dragonfly

Quote - unknown author

The dragonfly form and image are a spiritual talisman for me. The iridescence of its wings catch my eye.  It hovers and darts and  makes my heart flutter.  In the 2002 movie with Kevin Costner, Dragonfly, it captured the symbolism of the place between life and death.  In many cultures it is much more than a double winged insect.  Perhaps the scurrying flight across water signifies going beyond what is on the surface and reminds me to look deeper.

Common Bluetail w(ikepedia)

I seem to collect the form, with a piece of jewelry or photos or quotes.  Did you know there are more than 200 species and in Japan, where they are a symbol for courage - strength and happiness, they all have a traditional name.   What does the dragonfly symbolize for you?

Camp Carefree

Solitude Pastel 12x9

Several years ago Sally Mather and I found this little pond near Roundtop, on the Girl Scout property just west of Cheyenne.  The caretaker gave us permission to enter.  I have returned several times with other artist friends as it is close and quiet and inviting.  Once when Don and I went he found a bizillion blue dragon flies.  He roams and takes photos while I paint.  I love dragon flies.... Next blog I will share my dragonfly quote.   I have painted at this location several times.   The Plein Air piece, Solitude, was started here.   Later it was scumbled out and this piece emerged from the reference photo. 

Secluded Pond Pastel 12x9

This painting was the first and I still enjoy it on my wall in the hall gallery I use  to keep my paintings ready for viewing.   I liked the palette of this one and the rough texture of the pastel.  Which one do you prefer? 

Wyoming Artists' Association

Vanda's Pastel 9x12 untitled... from the workshop

Mike Beeman

It was the first time for me to meet the artists from across Wyoming at the annual convention of the members of the Wyoming Artists' Association, held each year the first weekend of May and at the city of the President.  The weekend was packed full with the exhibit of art, workshops, meetings and of course food and entertainment.  The excitement for me was the workshop with Mike Beeman who flings his pastels into dreamy, soft visions.   His visual voice seems effortless, but is really based on his years of training and as he states, taking time to paint EVERY day.  You will want to see  more of Mike's work.  http://mikebeeman.com/ 

Great Harvest Bread Company

Spring Scent  5x7 Pastel 

So what does bread have to do with art you my be asking?  They are a new Art Partner and you can see some of my floral paintings when you stop by to get your baked goods, coffee or soup and sandwich for lunch. The store is at 5249 Yellowstone Road in Cheyenne.  Sharon and Dwight have created a charming store and along with their family of six kids.  Open Monday through Friday from way early until 5 PM.  Check my Locations Link to see other places to see my art.  The Student show at LCCC just closed, however I will have all new pieces at Halley Murray & Smith CPA's this week. 

A Lesson

Morning Light 9x12

My Grandson Sam paid me a compliment last week when he asked if would teach him how to paint in pastel.  Sam is creative in his music (Plays sax In jazz band and has his own group of musician friends) along with drawing and graphics.   I am new enough at this art thing to wonder how to teach, since I am still learning.  So I pulled out Beginners Guide to Pastel, the book I used when I began.  Morning Light was from the lessons, completed in 2010.  


http://www.amazon.com/The-Beginners-Guide-Pastels-Step-By-Step/dp/1853686042


It has step by step instructions for using pastel.  He took to the medium and did a pointillism piece, which he decided wasn't his style.  He borrowed a reference photo and has started a second piece of a duck in water.  He liked the lines in Morning Light and is learning how to layer his strokes.  He cropped the picture, studied the values and chose a palette.  He is showing some talent and enjoys the pastel as much as I.

Walk as one at 1

Garden Labyrinth at Cheyenne Botanic Gardens

You should know that we have a labyrinth in Cheyenne.  I walked on a labyrinth  for the first time in 2000 and discovered the subtle power of that circular form.  As with all my endeavours I dove in and discovered labyrinths across the globe, found like souls here in Cheyenne and in 2001 we created a grass labyrinth at the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens.  http://www.botanic.org/discover/the-gardens/explore-the-gardens/garden-labyrinth/

Shortly after that creation another group formed and we raised $70,000 through the CBG foundation to create the Garden Labyrinth which is made from stone.  Rachel Preston-Prinz designed the labyrinth as part of our committee.  http://archinia.com/     So now you have a chance to experience the Labyrinth.

World Labyrinth Day

Walk as One at 1

May 5^th, 2012 1:00 pm

World Labyrinth Day is a day that brings people together from all over the planet in celebration of the labyrinth as a symbol, a tool,  a passion or a practice.  Meet at 12:30 near the Peace Garden to learn more about the lbyrinth and begin the walk at 1 PM.   For more information  labyrinthsociety.org  or email me at enliven.art@gmail.com

Shows and Shows and Shows

Pure Pigment Reception

Art Shows are springing up.   So you know that Pure Pigment opened at the WOW gallery in Laramie yesterday.  Gail and I had a nice collection of friends and met some new folks at the demo.  Jeanie Schlump, a brilliant pastel painter, enjoyed trying out pan pastels.  http://jeanieschlump.com/


And remember you still have time to see the Western Spirit Show http://www.oldwestmuseum.org/western_spirit_art_show_2012.aspx 

Old Mill pastel 8x6

in Cheyenne at the Old West Museum.   
This show runs through April 15th,  The Old Mill, Ivy and Aster and Helianthus are there with more than 200 pieces of art from 130 artists selected from across the nation. 


The next show, the Cheyenne Artists Guild annual Easter Show, will open April 3rd.  It is a tradition to visit the Guild on Easter Sunday, see the show and visit with the community.    Rejoice and Raw Chocolate will be on display.  

Pure Pigment

Pure Pigment. Just what does that mean? Pastel is pure pigment, the same pigment used in making all fine art paints. A bit of binder holds the pigment intact. As opposed to mixing color, as in oil painting, each stick of pastel owns its own hue. The word pastel does not mean a muted or toned down set of color as you will find a pastel stick in 1000's of colors. You have a chance to discover more about the medium of pastel at a demo' on Saturday March 24th at Works of Wyoming in Laramie from 2 to 4 PM. the Laramie Plains Civic Centre is at 710 Garfield and find WOW is in Suite 271.
Gail Watford and Vanda Edington will show their pastel art and you can pick up a pastel and feel the soft velvety texture and create you own mini masterpiece.  Hope to see you there!
Oh,  don't forget to visit the http://www.uwyo.edu/artmuseum/ while in Laramie... Open 1-5 Monday through Saturday.  

Framed

It usually takes about an hour to frame each piece.  First the pieces need one last look, a signature, a name and trimmed to fit the frame.   I usually use standard frame sizes for the economy.  I want to sell my art so framing expense needs to be reasonable.  The frames you see in the picture are from an online art website.  My friend Gail and I watch for the sales and buy in large lots to get the "free" shipping.  The glass is also purchased in bulk.  I use non-glare.  There are conservations between using regular glass, non-glare and museum glass.  When you see a piece framed in each of the styles you can decide which you prefer.   There must be a riser between the glass and the pastel image.  Since none of these pieces are matted the riser is thin and set on the edge of the frame. 

Notice the piece on the top right still needs glass.  I need to check my inventory as the 16x20 size is depleted.  The piece is called Rejoice and will be on display at the Cheyenne Artists Guild Easter show in April.

These pieces were painted over the last few months.  The studio is now ready for new inspiration.

Framing

The evolution of a painting begins with the inspiration.  After it is painted it needs to marinate and eventually it is time to scumble it out and begin again or frame.  The shelf in my studio is getting pretty full. Later today I will will give all these paintings one last review, and if ready, sign, take a picture of the image and give them to my framer.  I am lucky as I married my framer.  He has learned the elements of framing.  I choose the frame and he cleans the glass and adds the riser that protects the pastel from the glass.  He makes certain the non-glare glass is placed correctly and insets the points, adds the d-rings, picture wire and wa-la, another piece of art ready for showing.  

The link is an article from Deborah Secor on framing pastel art. http://www.deborahsecor.com/pastel_talk.html

Komen Wyoming Art For the Cure

Can you believe the 10th anniversary for the premier art event in Cheyenne is coming up?   

http://www.komenwyoming.org/get-involved/art-for-the-cure/

I donated Tis a Rose last year.  This year I have already chosen the piece.  It has yet to be named.  Maybe you can give me a suggestion.  Mary Aslin (last blog) suggests her naming comes from the emotion the painting inspired. 

These flowers seem to be waiting sedately on the cabinet near the morning light, ready to catch the eye, ready for the first cup of tea... Mark your calendar for April 20 at Little America for a look at all the art.

Mary Aslin

Garden Pot 5x7 Pastel

I painted yesterday, the first time in a few weeks.  I sold a little piece, which was encouraging, and was accepted for the second year in the Western Spirit show with two pieces.  I am still searching for inspiration so I Googled "pastel artists" and discovered a pastel artist from California that INSPIRED me.    The only problem, I spent an hour on her site, reading the blogs, marveling at the images, discovering her journey and had to force myself go back to work.  I liked the little study so well that I started a 9x12 version.  Not yet done so hope to share next time.


Check out Mary at http://maryaslin.com
and tell her Vanda said hi.