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Blog archives: July 2012

Ready, Set, Go!

My exhibit space at the Laguna Beach Festival of Arts

Today is the opening party for the Laguna Beach Festival of Arts and my exhibit space is ready to go. Four thousand people will be attending this evening event, a preview of the artists juried into the 2012 festival, which is celebrating its 80th anniversary. As you can see from the sign, my art has been categorized under "painting - icarus". I'm very honored that my technique has been recognized and I'm looking forward to explain the process to the visitors who will be intrigued by it.

Preparing for this festival has required all my time and energy. I will take a two month hiatus from demos, step-by-steps and videos but I will resume in earnest in September. I appreciate your patience and understating.

In July and August my posts will focus on the festival experience. I hope you will continue to read and comment as I really value your feedback. If you are in Southern California this summer, please stop by. Better yet, call me ahead at 949-683-6615 to make sure I'm there and I will get you inside for free.

 

“River Pebbles, No. 10”

River Pebbles, No. 10

 

Title: River Pebbles, No. 10

For techniques used in this artwork, please see blog post River Pebbles, No.3 - Melting Artist Crayons

 

“River Pebbles, No. 9” - Where’s Waldo?

Original Photo Reference

When I look at a reference photo like the one above, the question I always ask myself is: where's Waldo?

Waldo, for an artist like me, is a good composition hidden in the randomness of nature. Even when I'm the one setting up the still life, I try not to interfere in the way pebbles fall into place. I just take many pictures while anticipating the game I will play later on my computer.

Waldo can be elusive at times. I have images taken years ago that never produced a single Waldo. But my ability to "see" is constantly evolving; I know there's a Waldo waiting to be found even in the most hopeless image.

Composition

Meet Waldo! I found him in the center of the image. Now that I have him, I want to show him off but, as you can see, he looks a little drab. Light and color will do magic.

Values

Here's what he looks like in black and white.

Values Adjusted

Much better - Waldo is coming to life. I just lightened the top left quadrant and pushed the overall value contrast.

Colors Adjusted

Now we're talking!

River Pebbles, No. 9

And here is my finished piece - in honor of Waldo of course!

Title: River Pebbles, No. 9

For techniques used in this artwork, please see blog post River Pebbles, No.3 - Melting Artist Crayons

 

“Poppy, No. 4”

Poppy, No. 4

Title: Poppy, No. 4