The Troubled Artist

Small Works For Sale

2020-04-02T13:13:00.001-07:00

AFFORDABLE SMALL WORKS OF ART

All artwork on this page is for sale.

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2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Oil on Canvas Paper

2009

$20.00 U.S.

Oklahoma Cows

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Oil on Canvas Paper

2009

$20.00 U.S.

Finch

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Oil on Canvas Paper

2013

$20.00 U.S.

Ocean Crashing

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Oil on Canvas Paper

2009

$20.00 U.S.

Untitled

4 1/2" x 6" Oil on Canvas Paper

2019

$40.00 U.S.

Angry Rooster

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Oil on Canvas Paper

2009

$20.00 U.S.

Crown Butte, Simms Montana

4 1/2" x 3" Oil on Canvas Paper

2019

$30.00 U.S.

Untitled

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Oil on Canvas Paper

2009

$20.00 U.S.

Untitled

2 1/2" x 3 1/2" Oil on Canvas Paper

2009

$20.00 U.S.

Oklahoma Landscape

2020-02-17T12:00:00.000-08:00

FOR SALE Oil on Canvas $150.00 without frame

I got a new job and started in December. I am working in a Contemporary Art Museum as the Gift Shop Manager and it is a new experience for me. I have worked in a Gift Shop before but was not involved with how the Shop actually works. For me, the most enjoyable part of the job is that I can be creative and work on problem solving skills. I am learning new skills as well; budget planning, curative duties and so much more. I have had to give up my studio however.

Because I am working full time now, I can no longer go to the studio unless it is on a weekend. The weekends are when I am able to spend time with my children plus be home relaxing. So I made the choice to give up the studio and move my things back home. I am now bunking in the attic with my teenage daughter. She has the entire attic as a bedroom and agreed to let me take one of the dormer window spaces.

I have only been in the attic for two weeks now and have been able to spend time on my painting. I have set aside about an hour each night after work which enabled me to finish it in no time. So in my heart, there is no sadness anymore, my decision was the right one.

How a 13 year old sees my paintings

2020-02-17T11:55:00.000-08:00

Oil On Canvas SOLD by Frankie Stockman

This morning, me and my 13yr old daughter were sitting in the living room talking about art work. She looked around the room at the paintings that I have hanging in the room and said, "Your paintings are so, stuck". She used the word, stuck. I asked her what that meant and she said that she feels that they are stuck in time. They are stuck as if frozen. I asked her if she felt the same way about the Seascape but she felt it wasn't as stuck as far as movement like the landscapes (big relief for me). She said she doesn't dislike the fact that they appear to her like that and then thought a little more about it. She then told me that the best way she can describe my art work is that it seems sad and lonely. My mind instantly went into deep thought.

I wasn't at all unhappy with her description of the work. I was just so curious how a landscape could show sadness and loneliness. Was the fact that she felt they were stuck, make her feel sad and lonely. Then I thought even further, am I feeling stuck, sad and lonely and it can literally come out in a simple landscape?

For the first time since I have been painting, I have never had anyone talk about my paintings in that way. The only feedback I ever get is on how good or bad my composition or perspective is. If I can paint realistic or not. It has gotten to the point where that would be what I tended to focus on instead of what really should matter and that is, how I feel.

The other things I thought about was that we have to stop telling artists how they can and can't do something. What they should and shouldn't do. Tell them how their works makes you feel and what you see. That makes a huge difference.

First Friday Art Walk

2019-09-09T14:41:00.001-07:00

I was a part of my very first "First Friday Art Walk". I had never heard of them until I became a part of the Art League that I am now associated with. Since I have been renting out my own little studio, I have met many new people and been inspired by them all.

Wait! I didn't tell you about my new studio did I? I have so much to tell you! I have been a little busy trying to get it all together and it is finally here.

I still haven't gotten around to repainting the walls but I will very soon. I have just been trying to get comfortable and I am learning to love this space. Sometimes I lay my yoga pad down and just lay on it and stare at the room and tell myself what about it I love so much. It actually works!

This little wall is my space for hanging art. I don't have much out yet, as you can see the walls space is limited.

My space is really small. Actually I believe it is the smallest space up here. However, I have something no one else has. MY OWN BATHROOM. So I don't mind.

I am very glad that I moved up here instead of sitting in the corner of my house where no one else but me paints. It is nice to get around other artists and talk about things. There is mixed media artists here, acrylic painters, metal smith, wood, rocks, a quilter and even a tattoo artist.

I like being here.

Ideas for Mixing Tones

2019-08-31T21:21:00.002-07:00

Here are some ideas for mixing tones.

A tone is any pure hue with a neutral gray added. When you mixing from these lists, you are just making each color less vibrant. I have been told that most people find tones very pleasing to the eye.

When you look at each list of mixes, know that if you do not have a certain color, then just play around with what is suggested. You may end up creating a mix that you really like and can use. Keep in mind that these are strictly starting points and suggestions.

Gray Tones	Pink Tones
Violet Tones	Brown Tones
Green Tones	Red Tones
Yellow Tones	Blue Tones

Gray Tones:

Prussian blue, umber and white
Ultramarine blue, umber and white
Cerulean blue, umber and white
Black and white
Black, yellow ochre and white
Black, umber and white
Umber and white
Black, naples yellow and white
Venetian red, viridian green and white
Venetian red, green (cadmium yellow and blue) and white

Pink Tones:

Venetian red and white
Venetian red, yellow ochre and white
Burnt sienna, yellow ochre and white
Cadmium red and white
Indian red and white
Indian red, yellow ochre and white
Naples yellow, venetian red and white
Naples yellow, Indian red and white
Naples yellow, cadmium red and white
Naples yellow, burnt sienna and white

Violet Tones:

Venetian red, ultramarine blue and white
Cadmium red, ultramarine blue and white
Alizarine crimson and white
Alizarine crimson, venetian red and white
Alizarine crimson, cadmium red and white
Alizarine crimson, ultramarine blue, prussian blue and white

Brown Tones:

Black, yellow ochre and burnt sienna
Black, burnt sienna and white
Black, umber and white
Umber and naples yellow
Umber and yellow ochre
Burnt sienna and yellow ochre

Green Tones:

Prussian blue and cadmium yellow
Prussian blue and cadmium orange
Prussian blue and yellow ochre
Prussian blue and naples yellow
Prussian blue and burnt sienna

*for the above list of colors, you can substitute Prussian blue for Ultramarine blue and Cerulean blue.

Viridian green and yellow ochre
Viridian green and naples yellow
Viridian green and umber
Viridian green and cadmium yellow
Viridian green and cadmium orange
Viridian green, ultramarine blue and cadmium yellow
Viridian green, ultramarine blue and yellow ochre
Viridian green, ultramarine blue and naples yellow
Viridian green, prussian blue and cadmium yellow
Viridian green, prussian blue and naples yellow
Black and cadmium yellow
Black and cadmium orange
Black and naples yellow
Cadmium yellow and umber

Yellow Tones:

Cadmium yellow, yellow ochre and white
Cadmium yellow and white
Cadmium yellow, naples yellow and white
Yellow ochre and white
Naples yellow and white
Naples yellow, yellow ochre and white

Blue Tones:

Ultramarine and white
Prussian blue and white
Cerulean blue and white

If you had any mixes to add, please let me know in the comment section below!

Lisa Graham - Sharing Stories of The Heart

2019-04-30T08:46:00.000-07:00

Lisa Graham - Sharing Stories of The Heart

What is best for Nigel - Oil on Canvas by Lisa Graham

- Can you please share a little of your background? For example, where you are from and how your artwork ties into your culture or where you live.

I have lived in Colorado for a year, but most of my life has been spent in Kansas. Once in a while the Kansas landscape shows up in my work whether it be a figure standing in an open field or an old farmhouse. Only recently have I started to explore painting mountains, but this landscape is still very new to me.

- Which situations or experiences have helped you evolve as an artist? For example; what makes you who you are?

There are many experiences that have contributed to the artist I am today. The first was starting my blog. I met so many other artists and creative people through blogging and their work as well as their support and feedback really helped me to grow and just keep painting. Online classes and workshops also helped me develop my style and skill as a painter. Being a part of a gallery was also another incredible time of growth for me. Spending time with artists and art collectors taught me so much about art and art business.

- Does your work carry a message? If it does not, then can you tell me why you make it?

Great Grandma's Kitchen - Oil on Canvas by Lisa Graham

I would not say I have a specific message to deliver through my art. I tell stories. My stories are about love and belonging, about loneliness, about relationships and life events. I like to capture emotion in my figures and often those emotions are quite serious and people can relate to the figures in my paintings because it reminds them of their own life experiences. I make art because for me painting is as relaxing as a good book and a bubble bath. I simply enjoy it. What I paint depends on my mood. I might see a mother and daughter one day on my walk and it makes me want to paint a mother and daughter. I might purchase a pretty coffee cup and paint an entire scene just so that I can paint that cup. I also like to paint from memories. Recently I painted a kitchen with a red and white checkered floor which was from an early childhood memory of my great grandmother's kitchen. I feel so inspired by these things, by everyday life among people, pretty places and spaces and things, and my own memories. These are things I enjoy painting so much.

- Who are your biggest influences? Why?

Early on I was lucky enough to make good friends through my blog. One in particular is Julie Ford Oliver. She is an incredible artist with a strong business sense and I learned so much from her about painting, marketing and art in general. Lynne Hoppe is another artist I met through my blog and it was through her I learned to stay true to myself as an artist - that painting what you love and finding joy in art is more important than selling it. I was also very influenced by gallery owner Teressa Sliger. I was in her gallery for three years and her wisdom and guidance on the business side of things during that time was invaluable and her encouragement was endless. It was through her gallery I started painting with a group led by Wichita, Kansas artist and teacher Brian Hinkle who also had great influence. He taught me so much about oil painting and perspective, viewing art and also the business side of things. I feel lucky to have met all of these friends.

- Do you have a current project that you are working on?

I am trying to incorporate more animals in my art lately. I have a golden retriever who is getting older and knowing my time is limited with him, I want to capture him while he is still with me. I also have been going through my thousands of photographs and picking out ones that might make a good painting. It's a great way to revisit your memories. I start by drawing it in my sketchbook using charcoal just to establish values. If I like the drawing and if I think it will "read well" as a painting, I go ahead and paint it using my drawing as my guide. I don't look at the photo anymore because I want to take liberties with color. This has been a great thing for exploring color. I am just getting started with this method and have not shared any of these paintings yet. I will soon though!

- What has been your biggest challenge as an artist when it comes to your work and/or career?

The biggest challenge is making the time for painting. There are so many other activities that compete for my attention.

- Do you actively seek out opportunities or do you just go with the flow? Why? How is that working out for you?

Early on I was more aggressive about seeking opportunities to show my work, but now I just let things unfold. If the opportunity to show comes up and the timing is right of course I say yes, plus I have my online shop on Etsy where I sell my paintings. Once in a great while I teach one on one painting lessons. It feels more right to just let things flow this way for now and I sure do enjoy painting more with this relaxed attitude.

- Do you find it difficult to price your work? Why?

At first I found pricing very difficult, but now I keep it simple and price my paintings by the square inch. If I have a painting that I feel is worth more than my current pricing, then I don't sell it. I hang onto it until either I raise my pricing or I am willing to let it go at my current price.

- Which pieces are you most proud of? Why?

I am most proud of my intuitive paintings where I paint from my own ideas rather that using photographs. What is Best for Nigel is a good example of that. It was inspired by a song called Making Plans for Nigel. I was cooking dinner one evening and the lyrics to that song put this very strong image in my mind. I was able to execute the painting with ease and I find this very exciting when it happens this way.

- How do you feel after completing a project?

Sometimes really good, sometimes really disappointed. I am always working on letting go of my expectations.

- How has art changed or challenged your life?

I am so much more self confident and more mindful of who I am since becoming a painter. But I am also more humble. I started painting in my 40's and I truly felt like I had tapped into a part me that was meant to be found, that needed to be found. Art helped me make more sense of myself, my past, my memories, and the people and places around me. Painting made me think about things more as I painted the people and the scenes. It makes you reflect a lot. I have more gratitude, more joy, more love, and more faith since becoming a painter and I cannot imagine a world without art and without artists who help us see things. I think that nature and people are God's creation and therefore painting them is a spiritual thing.

Night Beach - Oil on Canvas by Lisa Graham

You can find more information about Lisa and her recent projects and paintings here:

Etsy: Original Paintings By Lisa Graham

Facebook Fan page: Lisa Graham Art
Instagram: Lisa Graham

Blog: Lisa Graham

The Supernatural Breath by Dr. Joe Dispenza

2019-04-07T08:24:00.001-07:00

Listen as Dr. Joe Dispenza explains how to properly execute the Supernatural Breath.

Sometimes we just need that tiny little push to get us going in the right direction again or to even let us know that we are headed in the right direction and today for me, was that day. I found this man for the first time and I could not wait to share his knowledge with you. I tried to do the breathing exactly how he describes it and I felt it! I am going to forever be grateful for this knowledge.

Towards the end is when he really guides you through the breathing process but I recommend that you watch the entire video. It is worth every second. If you are ready and eager to push forward and heal then you will not just click out of this page. You will open up your mind and your heart and you will listen and learn. If you do not and find it a bore or just not for you then you might not be ready just yet.

However, I do recommend that after you turn away, keep the idea of pushing forward and healing in the back of your mind because I believe you will be ready for his teaching eventually. This will cross your path again. You will see.

To learn more about Dr. Dispenza, go to his website: Joe Dispenza

What Should I Paint?

2019-04-07T08:13:00.001-07:00

It isn't always easy deciding what to paint even though you have the craving. There are many times when artists sit around extremely frustrated because they want to paint but have no idea what to do. If I were to explain it, it would be like wanting ice cream but there is none in the freezer!

You can go online and search for other artist to get ideas but it doesn't always help. How many times do you get caught up on what they are doing or working on instead of what you want to be doing?

Of course you can find a list of "what to paint" on sites and blogs where they give you long lists of ideas but it becomes overwhelming at times. So I decided that I was going to use my own experiences and share with you some of the things that I do when I get stuck and am unclear of what to do.

Finding Inspiration through Complementary Colors:

Sometimes when you are trying to decide what you want to paint but are overwhelmed try taking away some of the rules. Why not make a painting with just two colors? Challenge yourself! Find objects of complementary colors.

For example, I was in a slump and I had no clue what to paint. I saw somewhere that someone was challenging artists to paint only in 2 colors and I thought it sounded kinda fun. So I took the challenge and I realized that it actually made me feel more relaxed and I wasn't so frustrated.

For my challenge, I chose red and green.

Red Barn, Oil on Canvas by Frankie Stockman

I supposed I did cheat a little and use different colors with it but only thinking of the two colors allowed me to open mind and put things together as I went along.

The Orange Chair Oil on Canvas board by Frankie Stockman

Remember, you can paint any objects you see around the house, you just have to choose which two colors you are going to use then allow it to just flow as you go along.

Finding Inspiration Through TV or YouTube:

Have you ever been watching a TV show or movie and saw a beautiful landscape or even a scene that you thought would make a lovely painting?

Why not try pulling it up on YouTube and pausing it where you found your inspiration? This might sound crazy but it can be done. Here is a scene from a Sherlock Holmes episode!

Castle; Oil on Panel by Frankie Stockman

Paint Your Favorite Painting That You Will Never Be Able To Afford:

I am not against coping the old masters! I believe that it helps you find your own technique and helps you figure out how putting together a painting works. Plus if you can pull it off and make a reasonable facsimile, then it becomes a win win for you!

The Guardian Oil On Canvas by Frankie Stockman

Paulus Potter, The Wolf Hound

When All Else Fails:

There are times when no matter how many ideas people throw at you or try to tell you to try because it works for them, it isn't always going to work for you. Maybe that is when you should finally decide that painting might not be what you really want to be doing after all. Maybe you are in the mood to just be creative in general and need to release that energy. The next best thing to do is just draw! Draw a tree, a pencil, a cup, your dog, your cat - anything. Just be creative.

I would really like to hear what your ideas are or what you think of these ideas.

If any of these ideas inspire you, please share them with me here! I would love to see what you come up with!

HAPPY PAINTING - or drawing!

Finding Quotes for Inspiration

2019-04-07T08:04:00.002-07:00

I was thinking about the reason why we tend to look up quotes. I thought maybe it was just a recent internet trend but it really isn't. When you think about past presidential speeches or even Biographies or Memoirs, the author always seems to quote others.

Do we want to find confirmation for our thoughts and actions? Possibly.

Do we need to comfort the uncomfortable or make the comfortable uncomfortable? Maybe.

I tend to look up quotes to inspire me and to show me that I am not the only one who has troubles with certain ideas or makes certain mistakes. It is healing to know that people who have made a large impact on others in a positive way, didn't always make the best of choices and struggled through times. Still, they set out to do what they said they were going to do.

Please post the quotes that have inspired you or made you change a direction in your life in the comment section below.

Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand.

Margery Williams

We cannot stay home all our lives, we must present ourselves to the world and we must look upon it as an adventure.

Beatrix Potter

I cannot rest, I must draw, however poor the result, and when I have a bad time come over me it is a stronger desire than ever.

Beatrix Potter

Thank God I have the seeing eye, that is to say, as I lie in bed I can walk step by step on the fells and rough land seeing every stone and flower and patch of bog and cotton pass where my old legs will never take me again.

Beatrix Potter

If your daily life seems poor, do not blame it; blame yourself that you are not poet enough to call forth its riches' for the Creator, there is no poverty.

Rainer Maria Rilke

I want to be with those who know secret things or else alone.

Rainer Maria Rilke

No great art has ever been made without the artist having known danger.

Rainer Maria Rilke

I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do.

Leonardo Da Vinci

I have offended God and mankind because my work didn't reach the quality it should have.

Leonardo Da Vinci

The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance

Aristotle

No great mind has ever existed without a touch of madness.

Aristotle

Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives – choice, not chance, determines your destiny

Aristotle

You can't stay in your corner of the Forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes.

A.A. Milne

One of the advantages of being disorganized is that one is always having surprising discoveries.

A.A. Milne

Don't underestimate the value of Doing Nothing, of just going along, listening to all the things you can't hear, and not bothering.

A.A. Milne

Herb Rogers - The Artist With A Heart and Purpose

2019-04-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

Herb Rogers - Art With A Heart and Purpose

- Can you please share a little of your background? For example, where you are from and how your artwork ties into your culture or where you live.

I live in a place called Cossayuna, N.Y. It’s just a few hops, skips, leaps and jumps from Vermont. I live on a back-dirt road that can be tricky in the winter. The post office doesn’t deliver mail because they say it’s too scary in the winter months, but that’s ok because I can go check my mail at the post office at 3 a.m. if I feel like it.

By Herb Rogers - [Post Office]

- Which situations or experiences have helped you evolve as an artist? For example; what makes you who you are?

I have wild life all around me. I guess that's where I come up with the idea to do wild life art. I can't really say what gives me the notion ta create. I just woke up one morning back in December of 2011 and had the yearning ta paint.

By Herb Rogers

- Does your work carry a message? If it does not, then can you tell me why you make it?

At first, I would paint just ta paint but now I do art I call with a purpose. It’s usable and it has a cause.

- Do you actively seek out opportunities or do you just go with the flow? Why? How is that working out for you?

The only place I advertise the art, is on face book and a few stores, creative works and rustic charm you can find them both here on facebook.

- Do you find it difficult to price your work? Why?

I never find it hard to price my work. I try to keep the prices low so the poor person can afford it. If they want a piece, I let them take it and tell them to pay when they can.

- Which pieces are you most proud of? Why?

I guess the piece I’m most proud of is the Elephant pot holder rack I made cause it's something my wife wanted.

- How do you feel after completing a project?

Before I get a piece finished, my mind is working on what’s next. If I’m not working on art then it's a guitar, banjo or key board.

By Herb Rogers

You can find more information about Herb and his recent projects and paintings here:

Rustic Charm Facebook Fanpage

Frankie Stockman - Learning That It is Okay If It Isn't Perfect

2019-03-20T17:56:00.000-07:00

Frankie Stockman - Sometimes It is Okay If It Isn't Perfect

- Can you please share a little of your background? For example, where you are from and how your artwork ties into your culture or where you live.

Mt. Whitney, Oil On Canvas by Frankie Stockman

I am originally from California. I grew up in the In-yo Valley. The only time that my paintings really tie into my past or where I grew up is when I am painting certain scenes in the area that remind me of home. I have even painted a still life of Apricots because when I was a kid, me and my cousin thrived off them in the summers. Her parents had a huge tree in their yard. Cousins really are the best.

- Which situations or experiences have helped you evolve as an artist? For example; what makes you who you are?

My grandparents and my mother are very creative people. My grandfather was a writer, jewelry maker and even made arrowheads. My grandmother crocheted some of the prettiest things I have ever seen and she was a master on the sewing machine. My mother is a poet but she wouldn’t tell you that about her. I grew up around people making things constantly but never knew why until I got older. Then it all made sense. I wasn’t born wanting to be a painter. I wanted to be a fashion designer or a writer.

- Does your work carry a message? If it does not, then can you tell me why you make it?

My work does not carry a message. I always want it to because I always feel that it is supposed to. I try to come up with secret messages, but it never works. I like to tell people that I paint to keep my feet on the ground. It helps me focus and keep my mind straight through the details of the paintings. It is like meditation at times. I forget that the world exists, and I forget that sometimes life is hard. When I am focused on the drawings or paintings, I am free.

- Who are your biggest influences? Why?

When I think of artists I think that my biggest influences are Leonardo Da Vinci, Sandro Botticelli, Thomas Moran and a few more. I seem to always look to them for answers.

- Do you have a current project that you are working on?

I actually have a couple projects that I am working on. I wrote a children’s book a couple of years ago and have not finished it because I am really having a hard time with the illustrations. Other than that I just do what I want when I want. I am also trying to get The Troubled Artist up and running strong. Soon I would like to be able to teach art and teach the pros of being an artist.

- What has been your biggest challenge as an artist when it comes to your work and/or career?

Mentally my biggest challenge has been to accept that I am a real artist. To accept that not everyone is going to love what I am working on and to keep pushing forward even when I don’t want to and to love my own work.

- Do you actively seek out opportunities or do you just go with the flow? Why? How is that working out for you?

I have not in the past and I know I should at some point. But there is always that excuse in the back of my mind; “I am not good enough to be in a show” or “I don’t have many pieces that I’ve done” and let us not forget, “I don’t want to sell most of them because they are for me.” There is always something. I then complain about not making money or getting recognized but, you get what you give, and I don’t really give much. However, I have shown my art in a couple auctions, gift shops, libraries and even coffee shops. I did actively seek them out for myself. I have also had a few commissions through friends and family.

- Do you find it difficult to price your work? Why?

Yes. You have so many people telling you one thing and then others telling you another. I have heard that I should price by the amount of hours I put into. I have heard that I should price it by how much I would pay for it. I was told once that if you sell a painting for a certain amount, that is what your value becomes for later paintings. I don’t know how much truth is in that. At this point, I just price it by the size and if there is a frame that comes with it.

- Which pieces are you most proud of? Why?

I am super proud of the copy that I did of Paulus Potter’s “the guardian” because it was one of my first paintings and also my pomegranate and lace. I did a really good job on those!

Pomegranate & Lace, Oil on Canvas Paper by Frankie Stockman

- How do you feel after completing a project?

I admit, sometimes I cry. The pride that I feel for myself makes me so happy. Plus, the energy that you put into a piece of art is so intense and when It works out for the best, it is one of greatest feelings. I can't explain the self-gratification. It’s addictive! I can’t live without that feeling anymore.

- How has art changed or challenged your life?

Art has changed me and helped me grow by making me feel more confident and creative in all other areas of my life. For example, dealing with how I deal with problems or even how I communicate with others. It has changed how I look at myself as well. Sometimes when I am struggling I can always remember that I am good at something. I do have something that not everyone has. I have my talent and I have my art. Before I felt like I was just, here.

Art has challenged me by teaching me to keep going even when I don’t want to. It challenges me when it “tries” to teach me that it’s okay if it’s not perfect.

Facebook Fan page: Frankie's Love of Art
Twitter: Frankie On Twitter

Pinterest: Frankie's Pinterest

Jael Hoffmann - Art As a Reflection of Life

2019-03-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

Jael Hoffmann - Art as A Reflection of Life

- Can you please share a little of your background? For example, where you are from and how your artwork ties into your culture or where you live.

I live in the high desert of California, with view of the Sierra mountain range and vast expanses of desert floor. My artwork doesn't tie in directly with the environment, as my sculptures mostly represent inner states of being, but the raw natural setting of my habitat does cater to a comfort from which ideas spring.

- Which situations or experiences have helped you evolve as an artist? For example; what makes you who you are?

Great question. I don't think it's the experiences themselves that helped me evolve as an artist, but how I decided to go about dealing with them. Art is not separate from living, so living well has been the basis for an inner state that can receive ideas and figure out how to make them happen.

- Does your work carry a message? If it does not, then can you tell me why you make it?

Yes, most of my metal work is symbolic of inner states we either struggle with, or struggles overcome. Some is political in nature, depending on what external circumstances reverberate strongly. I use humor as a tool to ease access to self. My jewelry work is mostly playful and satisfies a yearning for aesthetic balance.

- Who are your biggest influences? Why?

I didn't know anything about sculpture work, when I started working in metal, so there are no individuals or art movements that influenced my work.

- Do you have a current project that you are working on?

Yes, I am re-imagining the biblical story of Eve.

- What has been your biggest challenge as an artist when it comes to your work and/or career?

A big challenge for me is working under less than optimal conditions. My workshop is not temperature- controlled, so summers are very hot and winters very cold. I also have to pull-start a generator (as I live off-grid) to use large tools.

- Do you actively seek out opportunities or do you just go with the flow? Why? How is that working out for you?

I have a sculpture garden off highway 395. That's my exposure. I don't actively seek to display my work anywhere else, as I'm too busy doing work. It suits me to live in a bubble.

- Do you find it difficult to price your work? Why?

Not at all, every piece screams its value at me.

- Which pieces are you most proud of? Why?

My last piece 'Tzu Jan -constant change' has had a strong effect on others. It is describing the internal and external sameness in the face of constant change.

Tzu - Jan by Jael Hoffmann

- How do you feel after completing a project?

Relieved, as the sometimes very challenging process of giving birth, is over (temporarily, anyway).

- How has art changed or challenged your life?

I've learned (or am still learning) to step back, when things don't work out as planned, or desired.

Art is enhancing my experience of being alive, as it keeps me engaged and on my toes.

You can find more information about Jael and her recent projects, jewelry, Sculpture Garden and more on her Website: Jael Hoffmann

Kate Bentley - Painting What She Sees

2019-03-18T08:59:00.001-07:00

Kate Bentley - An Animal Lover & Her Journey With Art

Poppy, Oil on Canvas by Kate Bentley

- Can you please share a little of your background? For example, where you are from and how your artwork ties into your culture or where you live.

I'm a country girl at heart, from the South-East of England. So I would say it's only natural that having grown up around animals and nature it would become the focus of my work.

- Which situations or experiences have helped you evolve as an artist? For example; what makes you who you are?

Art is in my blood. I'm something like 5th generation arts (that I know of) on one side of my family and the other side we're very creative too. I didn't stand a chance haha!

- Does your work carry a message? If it does not, then can you tell me why you make it?

My work doesn't really hold any hidden meaning, I paint what I see, in a way I like. There's a lot of pressure in the arts world culture to paint abstract or loose paintings, but mostly paintings with some hidden altruistic meaning, and a stigma to the more traditional or commercial style - with a suggestion that you're "selling out" if the latter is your thing. I really don't think meaning is required or that it's been the focus for many artists in history. I'd say money has guided most in their decisions, and just the need, the burning desire to create.

- Who are your biggest influences? Why?

I'm not sure that I consciously have any. I was the girl at school who would do anything to avoid the art project about copying a piece by another artist. And the ones where I had to show my thought process and preparation work. I've always been more about just getting on with it and painting what I want. I actually (practically) failed my art A'level. I got a D.

- Do you have a current project that you are working on?

Yes. At the moment I'm mostly working on dog portrait commissions. I have one on the easel at the moment.

- What has been your biggest challenge as an artist when it comes to your work and/or career?

So it took me the longest time to accept that being capable of producing work that's viewed as being "cute and cuddly" and a bit commercial doesn't make me any less of an artist. I even tried to change my style. Now I just accept it, life is in the details they say. And so it would seem is my work!

It's just the way I paint.

- Do you actively seek out opportunities or do you just go with the flow? Why? How is that working out for you?

I've done both, I actively seek them now because I focus on commission work - pet portraits. I use social media, and you still can't beat a simple poster on a dog walking route.

- Do you find it difficult to price your work? Why?

Pricing is so hard, because art and its value are so subjective. The only way to do it is to have a look around at your competitors and see what sort of prices they're working to and pitch yourself somewhere near. My top tip is that it's easier to start out lower and increase your price than start too high and find you have to drop them.

- Which pieces are you most proud of? Why?

Always the last one I made, because I learn something new and hone my technique with each one and that is incredibly valuable.

- How do you feel after completing a project?

Ready for the next one. And probably a bit tired too.

- How has art changed or challenged your life?

Art has shaped my life, it's made me the person I am today. I'm not sure what sort of person I would have become without it. More frustrated perhaps?

You can find more information about Kate and her recent projects and paintings on her Facebook Fan page: Kate J. Bentley - A Rural Canvas

Winter Elk Progress

2017-11-12T12:54:00.001-08:00

I have been feeling very happy because this weekend I was able to paint! I drew this picture last week and then decided to work on it yesterday (saturday). I was very excited to see how fast it went. I am sure it is due to the fact that my background is very simple.

I really had no direction as to where to start so I just "started". Sometimes you just have to! So I did put in some snow in the background and then started to do my under painting on the elk.

I really didn't feel like waiting for it to dry so I just started to try to put in the details. As you can see I had to erase some of his nose. So the wet paint mixed in with the snow, making it looks dirty.

After about an hour, I had gotten pretty far. So I just kept going..

Farther... I was getting ready to get rid of the "erase" marks by his face and legs and I thought, I do like the smudges by his nose because it gives off the sense of breathing. However I thought it looked too dark... So I tried to fix it.. I should have just left it!

It is now Sunday and I am this far. I am going to go ahead and let it all dry for now. As you can see, I tried to make his breath so that it was coming out in a powerful snort. I don't know how I feel about it. I might have to go back and make it how it was before.

If you keep up with me and saw the last elk painting I did, you can see that the hair on these animals are so different. In the winter they really get long hair! So this elk here is much more fuzzy than the last one and a lot smaller in size so the detail was a bit harder to achieve. Either way, I think when it is all done and I have added more highlights and shadows, it will be perfect!

Hope you are having a great weekend as I am!

What does an artist see that others do not?

2017-08-27T14:04:00.002-07:00

I was on facebook today and I came across a post by ArtistNetwork. They asked: "As an artist, what do you notice that others don't?"

I read some of the answers and they made sense to me. They mentioned light, shadows and things like that. I started to think about it and I gave my answer. However, I couldn't stop thinking about it. Then I thought, what if Leonardo isn't talking about seeing shadows, light or even nature but seeing the truth in himself?
When I responded to the facebook post, I tried to think of my own personal struggles while learning how to be an artist. I hope you understand that I don't think that my answer is better than anyone elses of course. It was just from my own personal experience. What I said was, "it takes a lot of patients & courage among other things to be an artist... even very talented artist have a hard time with it. But to keep pushing fwd, to keep learning and wanting... i think that is where a true artist sets him/herself apart from others. But, that is not the truth, just my thoughts!"
After I wrote that, I wondered if that is what Leonardo was talking about. Was he talking about the artist seeing the truth in himself as well as in art? To tell the truth, I haven't read that quote in its original context. I probably should and then maybe I would know but I am glad it took me to that thought.
Just something to think about...

Sometimes giving it away feels better than selling it!

2017-08-23T18:27:00.001-07:00

I drew a Bull that I saw at the fair. I decided, because it was practice with my Pan Pastels, that the first person to love it on my fan page was going to get it. My lifetime friend put a heart up when I showed it off at its ugliest stage...

I really expected people to really give me what for! But she loved it right away.

I had just that night to work on it because I was getting ready to head to California for a summer trip and I wanted to make sure I had it finished before then. She still lives in the small town we grew up in and where I was going to go to visit my family.

I rolled it up and packed it in the car with the kids.

I didn't get to see her unfortunately. We both were busy and couldn't cross paths in the time I was there. However, I left it with my family and she picked it up. When she thanked me and told me how much she loved it through email, it made me "so" happy. I felt like I was a very lucky person to have a friend like her.

I am so thankful that I am able to paint and draw well enough that I can make people smile.

I can't imagine what I would feel like if I couldn't feel like I do today. I don't want to know.

Help out a fellow artist? Vote for me. Thank you!

2017-07-27T13:50:00.002-07:00

Hi Bloggers!
I have a quick favor to ask. If you have a few seconds will you please do me a favor and click on this link that I have posted here and vote for me? I am trying to get some free art lessons that would really come in handy for the next year. I am trying to because a full time artist and I really need to brush up on my perspective skills and my skills at drawing portraits. This class could really help me with that and I will be able to build up my confidence and technique in order to become a full time artist. Thank you so much for your support!
VOTE FOR FRANKIE

Again, I want to say thank you!

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UPDATE: Finished Commission

2017-07-12T21:38:00.002-07:00

The painting of this Weimaraner was a challenge. Unfortunately I can't seem to find a finished photo of the painting.This painting was a commission for a nice man in Texas. The size is approximately 26x30 oil on Canvas.

The one on the left was the closest to finished but you can't see the bottom of the painting. So I added the one to the right to show you what it basically looked like down in that corner. I am kicking myself because I can't find the finished photo. There was a little more detail on the dirt such as rocks and walnuts that had fallen. I am really sorry. When and if I ever find it, I will add it right away.

This painting is 24x16. Oil on Canvas. I finished it right after I finished Mikey. It is of the Lower Falls in Yellowstone. My family and I went there last summer and it was so pretty that I had to bring it home with me!

This rabbit, 24x16 oil on canvas, I started to work on last November and wasn't really sure what I wanted to do with her. She started off way different because I was in such a hurry to finish but when I looked at her she made me feel like I didn't try hard enough. I don't like that feeling. So I added some grass and some babies. I am happier with it now.

And last but not least, here is my major project that I started and finally finished. The Elk. It is the same size as Mikey, 26x30 something, oil on canvas.

Now that I am looking at it, I remember that I forgot to take off the marks I left at the top with charcoal. They are from when I was trying to decide how to do those pine needles. I "really" struggled with the pine needles. I have a lot of photos of the process that I went through and I will post them shortly and you will see how crazy it was for me. Even though he is so pretty, I am so glad to be finished. I really want to move on and do something else.

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Getting Started AGAIN

2016-01-30T17:01:00.001-08:00

I decided today that I am going to get back on track and make some more art. Since this decision I have been so happy. All day I feel like I have been skipping around and smiling and just enjoying myself completely. I came down into my space where I paint, the basement now, and started to map out a couple. I live in Montana now and so I wanted to work on something from here. We went to Yellowstone last year and saw some of the prettiest water falls and some of the stinkiest bison ever! So I decided I would make that my starting place...
The room here is a mess.. I know. I have lived in this house for only a couple months but I really have not been able to make it my own due to lack of time spent in it. I will for sure keep you updated. I think these two are going to make me so mad, so tired, so overwhelmed and ever so happy!

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Really needing to get back to painting!

2016-01-29T20:43:00.001-08:00

I want to say that I feel awful for not coming in here and posting on my blog, but to be honest I really don't. What makes me feel awful is what I posted about the last time I was here! My grandparents' portraits. You know I am STILL not done! That is what makes me feel awful. It has been such a weight on my shoulders. I do have some updates for you! I guess that is a good thing. Working all the time now really takes a lot of my time. I am wanting to change that. I really want to get back to my art work and be a full time artist. I think it would be wonderful! I really think that this time I can pull it off..

The flowers in my grandmothers hair need to be worked. They are "supposed" to be apple blossoms. She is from Michigan! :) I was trying to be thoughtful. Also there are many things on here that need working. I thought I could put an arch over their heads but I don't know how well that is working out as you can see I left it out because ... its not what I see in my mind.

It seems so simple so why can't I just finish it?? Its been a year! Usually it only takes me a couple days or even two or so weeks! This is getting out of control.

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That painting that breaks your heart

2015-05-29T11:45:00.000-07:00

I am taking a break from my painting and thought now would be a perfect time to share some of what I am doing.

For about three months now I have been working on a double portrait. I am not a strong portrait painter so it has been a little difficult for me and the subject doesn't make it any easier either. It is of my grandparents who I adore and miss. I am a little anxious as well because I fear I will be in the spot light of my whole family and trust me, we have a very big family with a lot of opinions. However the one that I care most for is my grandmother's. My grandfather passed away in 2001.
One day I am going to paint another portrait of them but at a very large scale. This painting is only 24 x 16.

The photo of the ear is my grandfathers. I just wanted to show off some of the skin tone. I am proud of the colors that I have come up with. I had a really hard time figuring out what colors to use at first. I worked on an old man painting and the flesh tones came out perfect! However, I couldn't repeat it. Then I was going through some old notes and saw it! I actually wrote down each color and put a little color swatch on the paper next to it.

I have tried and restarted three different times on three different canvases.

Here is a photo of all three next to one another just to give you an idea of my struggles. You can see that the painting to the far left is the one I am keeping.

While painting this painting, I have been brought to tears because of how much I care for and miss these two people.

This photo of my grandma's hair is where I am right now. I am not sure how to clean up the sides of her scalp but I will figure it out. I will do their glasses and things the very last. So I will keep you updated! :) Thanks for tuning in.

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How Creative Are You?

2015-05-16T15:38:00.000-07:00

Today me and my children were watching Brain Games. One particular part of the show they talked about how we as adults lose our creativity. By proving this, they took a simple picture of a red circle and two rectangles and gave the participant 5 seconds to come up with as many ideas that they could think of that reminded them of the picture. Most of them only came up with one. That includes myself. Then they invited some children to look at the photo and give their ideas. The children came up with up to 3 - 5 ideas in those 5 seconds.

I really thought that I was creative! But this showed me that I tried way too hard. I tried to think of rational things. The children just let go and said any random thing they could think of and some of the best ideas came from them.

One girl said, French fries and Ketchup among other things. Sushi even.

After this test, the adults were give a different picture to try to come up with ideas for. But this time after seeing all the things the kids came up with, they were encouraged to "think" like a kid again! Or to bring out their inner child.

This time around however, the adults relaxed and so many ideas came through in their 5 seconds.

I really wanted to share this idea with you and maybe you can test yourself. See what you come up with too! Are you as creative as you think you are?

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I love my art because I love my art.

2013-12-20T12:20:00.001-08:00

When I first started my art fan page on facebook and even this blog I couldn’t wait to see how many likes or followers I received and how fast I could get them. I had seen others and their Fanpages and blogs. They had hundreds and thousands of followers and likes. I knew that I was going to get them too! It didn’t really work out that way. I only have 66 followers on my blog and under 200 on my Fan page. I have had the blog for a couple of years and the fan page for maybe one.

After a while I would come on line and feel like I practically had to beg for people to like or follow for lack of interaction or recognition. Follow for a follow? Like me for a like? It seemed like that was the way that it should be. That is how everyone else was doing it and it worked for them! Right? Easy enough. So I did it. Nothing really came of it. I couldn’t even get those! It made me feel like I was no one again. My person wasn’t important or ‘good enough’ for the world again. I really did think that social networking would make me for once feel like a star! In reality it only made me feel like no was interested in again. Actually it made me feel worse. I was in cyber space where there are millions of people. But I still could not grab their attention.

Then I realized that it is just like before all over again. I am stripping myself of my person and trying to be something I am not once again. I am putting up with other peoples junk so that I can be noticed. Like for a like. What if I don’t like what you are doing? Follow for a follow? Maybe the blog bores me because we do not share the same issues. I still have to pretend like I do just so that they will pretend that they are interested in me? Clearly they are not by the fact that they never even once liked my posts or read my blog entries. They never comment or even type hi onto to my wall.

I have to ask myself, is it worth it? This time I will not take years to figure this out. This time I am going to stop it now.

I am not a business trying to sell my product. I refuse to believe that anymore or hear that from other people. I am a human who creates art work. I am a human who paints for her sanity. I love my art work. It makes me who I am. It keeps me where I need to be. Not anyone else. It makes me a devoted mother and wife and a thoughtful person. I am also fully aware that it is a gift from God. So why do I need to worry about the amount of ‘likes’ or ‘followers’ that I have? I shouldn’t.

I am going to decide that I don’t. I also know that it is going to be easier said than done but I am going to still try. It’s my life and no one else’s. I have to be the one to maintain it. Not anyone else. I have been fighting for a long time to win the approval of Frankie to allow the internet to set me back again. I have come too far.

No more likes for a like. No more follows for a follow.

This may sound like I am over thinking things but I do think that all the social interacting on the internet has really done a number on us all in many more ways than this.

This has happen before - How social networking makes you feel

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Learning to love Modern Art!

2013-11-18T07:29:00.002-08:00

I was doing some studying lastnight on art and I came across a little thing on Theo Van Doesburg (1881 -1931). His art work made me think about something that may have nothing to do with the art itself. I don't know because I do not know enough about him. Just the small bit in the book that I have. So I am just going to tell you about that for now. Then later I can go and learn little more about him and see what his motives were. If there were in fact any at all.

I am not a huge fan of Modern Art. As a matter of fact if I had seen the end result of this study from Theo, I would have looked and moved on not thinking anything special about it. I don't "understand" it so I don't care to look at it. How awful is that?? Pretty awful but I admit it. And this thought is what got the ball in my brain rolling.

First let me show you what I saw:

Study of a cow 1 for composition

Study of a cow 2 for composition

Study of a cow 3 for composition

Study of a cow 4 for composition (Tempera, oil and charcoal on paper)

Study of a Cow Oil on Canvas 1917. Museum of Modern Art New York Purchase

So here you can see that he went from "natural" to "abstract". I do like to see how he broke it down the way he did. I can actually see the cow now in the last study. It makes perfect sense to me now.

The end result doesn't really "comply" with what I personally deem to be beautiful art. To me this is nonsensical. But with all the studies in play I see an entire lesson before me. Of course it is that old saying to never judge a book by its cover.

I started to think deeper than just art though. How easy it is for us to judge things that we don't understand so quickly? We do it to our fellow humans all the time. We don't understand another person so we tend to walk away. They do not comply with our standards so we turn around and ignore them. This painting reminded me of that.

I have seen so many people just like that painting. No order. No perspective. I can't identify who they are or what they are doing. I am sure that if I could go back to their natural state when they had beautiful curved smiles and beautiful shining eyes with depth and perspective, I would be able to see a hint of that still in their flat shapes and unrecognizable compositions that stood before me now. I wouldn't walk away so fast. I would actually appreciate them for what they are - Humans. Just like me.

So now for the end result of Study of a Cow. I appreciate what I see before me and see it as it

should be seen - as a work of art. Good Job Theo.

Theo Van Doesburg - Self portrait in a hat. I bet without those composition breakdowns - you would not have guessed he painted like this also! Just goes to show.. we judge way to quickly. I know I did!

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It was a gamble but I had to try something! Fixing a rip in the painting.

2013-11-11T16:22:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I was doing a little showing at one of my friends stores - Time Passages Broken Arrow and I had an accident. I had asked my friend if I could show one of her paintings because I believed it to be one of my better paintings.. She agreed and then made me promise that nothing would happen to it. I promised. Who would have thought that I would be the one to rip it?

Here is the painting. Before any damages.

Here is the rip. It was so dumb how it happen! I was setting up the easels that I had bought to display the paintings and it slid down over the painting and just cut it like a hot knife through butter! My heart sank! I couldn't breath! I had to hold back the tears because I didn't know the people I was around and really didn't think they would understand and maybe accuse me of being over dramatic.

I ended up putting a patch on the back with some gesso.

I learned this from the internet. I took a small piece of canvas material (I used cross stitch material) and cover it in gesso then basically stick it to the back of the canvas over the ripped section. I set something heavy on it to let it dry. Took about 3 days before I dared to touch it.

I could still see the spot where it had ripped so I then began to layer it with paint and match the colors. Soon I had it all nice and you couldn't see where it had been ripped. YAY! I was done! I saved it! Wrrong!

I had it sitting on a table waiting to dry and I think the cats knocked it down or something FREAK accident happen and when it was on the ground, I think my dog stepped on it and punched a huge hole in the upper left hand corner. I seriously thought I was going to have a nervous break down! I was pacing the floor.. Any painting but this one!! Why this one!?

This time the damage was much more so I had to rethink how to fix it. I learned a trick on the net that you can use Gelatin and chalk! It would make a type of putty that I could use in the front. First I had to do the patch on the back.. Same thing only this time I used none acidic tacky glue. it worked actually better.

This is what it looked like after it was dry. Now for the putty... You can still kinda see the one on her butt but I had to wait for it to dry then I filled it in more with paint. Good thing that part of her was textured. It was the top part that isn't which I new would be much harder.

I couldn't tell you how much of it all that I used but I will say it was about 2 teaspoons of the gelatin and maybe a stick in a half of chalk. I crushed it into a fine powder with the flat part of my meat tenderizer. That was fun.

I started to fill in the cracks..

Let it dry nicely then kinda sanded it down. It did not come out right the very first time and I ended up having to make more putty (it goes icky fast and you can't save it) and doing it again.

Finally I felt it was nice and flat and I could match up the colors again ... You can see a little spot there where the putty - I touched it and thought I could fill it in with paint. I couldn't but when its hanging on the wall you can't tell at all. Just if you are sticking your face right into it.

Here she is all fixed up. I know that the best way to fix the back is to fuse the fibers the best you can then use a glue of some kind to keep it together. Then once that dries you can do your putty and whatever you need in the front. I will need to practice that. I would really like to be able to paint and repair! Something for sure to look into. And my camera did not do the colors any good. It looks like junk. Setting me up for failure for sure! I assure you you can not see anything wrong with it in person. ;)

Another thing I saw was that instead of using the large patch you can use strips and pull the painting together like butterfly stitches.

OF COURSE the best way to take care of this is to send it to a professional to be fixed. IF You have the money. I didn't.

This is the worst experience so far. I have been turned down for shows and told that my art is not their "thing" and those both hurt... but now I know that it can get worse! This was worse.... I am glad its over.

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