Life as an Artist- Jill Banks

"Blue Pot at the Tool Shed" Painting at Wayne Plein Air

2012-05-26T21:49:00.000-04:00

"Blue Pot at the Tool Shed," oil, 16"h x 20"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

The Farmers Market was nice this morning ... but with early rising, putting up the tent, standing on my feet, sweating to death, packing it all back up ... I was not ready to paint today.

So, the painting for today's post is one of my pieces from the Wayne Plein Air competition. "Blue Pot at the Tool Shed" was painted at this beautiful farm which was one of the sites open to us for the week. There were so many spots there that I could have selected. That was one of the problems ... there were so many choices ... it was difficult (and time-consuming) to select one. I'd painted this on Tuesday, our first painting day ... in the afternoon, and then returned there on Thursday afternoon to work more on the pot and chairs. Turned out that I pretty much touched all of the canvas on the second round. The contrasts and colors ended up so much better with that second afternoon of work.

"Blue Pot at the Tool Shed" is on exhibit, along with seven more of my paintings from the week, at the Wayne Art Center through June 30.

Exhibits and Events

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Painting on site: maybe ... Monday, May 28, 1 to 5pm. Check back here before coming in case times change or dates/times are added. Thanks! Preview the exhibit here.

May 20-June 23, Wayne Plein Air Exhibition 2012, one of 34 artists juried to participate in a plein air competition and exhibit in and around Wayne, PA (May 15-19). Gala Preview and Artists' Reception, Saturday, May 19, 6-10pm at the Wayne Art Center. Exhibition to follow May 20-June 23 at the Wayne Art Center. Eight pieces for purchase/on exhibit.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100):
www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Art and Produce ... And More

2012-05-25T19:11:00.000-04:00

My "Practice" Booth Set Up for the Farmers Market

Tomorrow morning (Saturday, May 26, 9am-1pm) will find me hanging paintings under a tent at the Great Falls Farmers Market (Great Falls, VA) ... and marveling over produce in the next tents. I've set up quite a few times at the market and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I like bringing art to where people are versus waiting for someone to suddenly decide to go looking for art... and art only. Granted, though, more purchases are made with the produce/pastry/food vendors at the Farmers Market than at my booth. But my paintings of fruits and veggies have a very long shelf life. No refrigeration necessary.

The Great Falls Farmers Market is located in the parking lot at the Great Falls Village Centre, 750 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA.

"Grazing On Buttercups," oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

And, the good thing is the Farmers Market is right around the corner from Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue where my "Out & About" Exhibit is up for just one more week. That means you can see 29 of my paintings within walking distance.

Signing and Touch-Ups

As I'm selecting paintings for the Farmers Market booth, I picked out two ("Grazing on Buttercups" and "Down By the River") that haven't been signed yet. While Randy was upstairs varnishing some others, I took the two paintings to my downstairs studio to sign. After a good while, I hear Randy's footsteps coming downstairs. There he finds me, in my studio, with the two paintings on the ground ... getting quite a bit more attention than just a signature. "You're painting on them, aren't you?" he asks ... or accuses. Somehow my husband doesn't think that right before packing up for a show is when I should decide to do some extensive ... slow-drying, wet paint touch-ups. They look so much better, though. I could decide to bring two other paintings instead ... but I want to show them. So here's the warning ... some wet paint ahead.

"Down By the River," oil, 16"h x 20"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Indian Yellow

One of the things that has been bugging me about plein air painting is that it is so difficult to achieve brilliant contrast. When I paint in the studio, it takes multiple sessions and layers to capture the effect of light. But, I came across a clue yesterday ... and that's part of what made me paint on those almost ready to go paintings. I'd removed some colors from my palette when putting together the color charts and supply lists for my classes. One of the colors I got rid of was Indian Yellow, because it's so intensely bright it can cause trouble. I realized that super intense colors are needed to come anywhere close to capturing light outside. There are experiments to come ... but I think I'm on to something.

Exhibits and Events

A Day at the Bar, the Old Brogue

2012-05-23T20:49:00.001-04:00

"The Bar at the Old Brogue" work in progress, oil on linen, 18"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

After having painted outside the Brogue, in Katie's Coffee, in the Snuggery ... old days, I finally made it to the side of this (extremely) popular Great Falls, VA restaurant that houses the bar. I've always wanted to paint there ... and today was the day.

I spent the entire afternoon, early evening hours glued to my spot. Figuratively, not literally. It was an intense, but REALLY fun day of painting. Not all of the patrons painted in were present at the same time. My painting developed like one of those slow motion videos ... as people came to sit, I added them in.

I was stationed toward the front door ... not the perfect placement if you came to watch me ... but great for people to glance at as they came in. I did feel a bit like I should act as hostess. That was probably a funny scene to happen upon.

What helped make the day special ... besides the challenge and excitement of painting something I've wanted to do for a long time ... were all the great conversations enjoyed with paintbrush in my hand. There is something magical about the ability to create something out of nothing. I love watching it happen -- and lots of others enjoyed it today, too.

One of the treats was meeting a woman who said that her 14-year-old grandson was a talented oil painter. Turns out her grandson is my amazingly talented student, Cormac. Pretty cool!

I'll return to finetune the painting some afternoon next week. This was a ton to accomplish today but it will be good to look at it again with fresh eyes. Hopefully, many of my subjects will return another day.

"Cars and Coffee," oil, 16"h x 20"w

Farmer's Market This Saturday
I'll be displaying my work this coming Saturday, May 26, 9am-1pm at the Great Falls Farmer's Market. So look for me under a tent.

"Cars and Coffee" and "The Olive Seller"

Two of my paintings, "Cars and Coffee" and "The Olive Seller" on view now at the Old Brogue will be going to a new home right after my "Out & About" Exhibit comes down on June 1. I can't believe the month's almost over. There are a few paintings in my "Out & About" exhibit that I know many people would like to take home with them. Someone's going to do it. I hope it's you.

"The Olive Seller," oil, 18"h x 24"w

Exhibits and Events

"Self Portrait" Start Today and Painting at the Brogue

2012-05-22T21:50:00.001-04:00

"Self Portrait" work in progress, oil on Raymar panel, 24"h x 18"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

I would prefer to paint this in one day, but with Still Life class this morning, and some other breaks in painting time ... this will need a extra, full painting session. I've wanted to do a self portrait since last year's "100 Faces in 100 Days" project ... just other projects have taken priority. My thought for trying this now was that I needed some sort of transition from painting landscapes for the Wayne Plein Air competition to getting back to a major portrait commission. Better mess with my face than someone else's.

Tomorrow, May 23, from 1 to 4 pm (at least), I'll be painting at the Old Brogue Irish Pub in Great Falls, VA. This time I'll be painting the bar -- and I'm really looking forward to tackling the warm interior and light. I hope you can come check out the progress!

Exhibits and Events

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Painting on site: Wednesday, May 9, 1-4pm and Wednesday, May 23, 1-4pm. Check back here before coming in case times change or dates/times are added. Thanks! Preview the exhibit here.

"Red Church Doors" of Wayne Presbyterian for Wayne Plein Air

2012-05-21T21:52:00.001-04:00

"Red Church Doors" of Wayne Presbyterian Church, Wayne, PA, oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

This was painting number three of the eight created during last week's Wayne Plein Air competition. I only had the morning on Wednesday to paint, as I was to set up as one of two artists presenting our work for purchase at a non-profit fundraising reception in Washington that afternoon/early evening.

It turned out so much better than I thought when it sat up there on my easel. It was framed and put in the box. When I opened the lid the next morning, it was a very pleasant surprise. Maybe the painting fairies touched it in the middle of the night.

It, along with seven other paintings from my Wayne Plein Air adventure are on exhibit, available for purchase through the Wayne Art Center until June 23.

Exhibits and Events

The Wayne Plein Air Gala Opening Reception

2012-05-20T18:47:00.001-04:00

Me in my corner of the gallery

Last night, the doors opened to the gallery for artists, collectors, volunteers and supporters of the Wayne Plein Air Event and Exhibition. This entire week, I've felt fortunate to be part of this whole event. Each time we turned in paintings, it was rather overwhelming how many beautiful pieces were being created over this short span of four-and-a-half days. 312 pieces were painted, framed, labeled and hung with care in this beautiful space ... that was, on Saturday, full, too with fantastic food, drink, decorations and happy people.

At the end of the week, I created eight pieces. I was happy to have survived the challenge. Enjoyed all the conversations with passerbys and participants in the event. We had wonderful hosts, Bob and Julie Spahr, who welcomed us into their home, and put up with our odd schedules. Every day was fun. I learned a good deal. Met many great artists from throughout the country. Ate outstanding food. Had plenty of adventures to dance around in my head for awhile.

The juror, Jeanette LeGrue, did a wonderful job at the difficult task of choosing award winners out of those 312 pieces of art. Shelby Keefe won Best in Show and Tracey Frugoli won First Place -- each for pieces that made me stop dead in my tracks.

I'll show you all eight of my paintings ... in subsequent posts. The gallery held the paintings we turned in on Thursday ... from our first three days of painting. My other three are spread about the lobby gallery.

This sale and exhibit continues through June 23 at the Wayne Art Center. Today, it opened to the public for the first time. (Yesterday was for ticketed patrons only.)

Exhibits and Events

Wayne Plein Air: Painting in Society Hill Today

2012-05-18T23:25:00.000-04:00

"Second Street and Pine," Headhouse Square in Society Hill, oil, 20"h x 16"w, by Jill Banks

During the five-day Wayne Plein Air competition, the juried artists have been pointed in a general direction to paint. The first three days, Tuesday through Thursday, we were to paint within a 15 mile radius of Wayne ... which took me to ... downtown Wayne, Malvern, and Phoenixville (an allowed exception). Today was "Philadelphia" day, but with a major regatta scheduled for 4pm, my reconnaissance that kept me out late yesterday checking out spots in the city ... proved to be fun but unfruitful. I'd planned to paint the boathouses or around back of the Philadelphia Museum of Art ... areas that were going to be blocked off and then swarming with people.

While worn to a frazzle, I'm absolutely loving this experience. Last night, (husband) Randy and I walked around Philly to places I never knew existed. The back of the Museum of Art resembles ancient Rome. The terrain, the building, and statues. Really amazing.

Philadelphia is filled with public art, in a way few other U.S. cities are. The fountains are magnificent. On Thursday night, the streets teemed with people. Restaurants were overflowing. The city surprised me.

This morning was off to a slow start. Purposefully ... as I wanted to take it a little easier today and wait for the morning rush hour to die down. Given that the Art Museum area was "out" ... I wanted to try a spot in Society Hill. My parents lived on the Main Line after I'd left for college, and Randy and I had lived in Bala Cynwyd for a few months. I was trying to remember where we'd visited, way back then, that might be interesting to paint. With some brain cell digging, I ended up in New Market, in front of the Headhouse Square Farmers Market at 2nd Street and Pine. Just walking up to this spot made me feel good. The day was beautiful, temperature just right, visitors warm and welcoming, and I loved this painting from beginning to end.

Right at the beginning, the blue Deer Park water truck was parked in its spot. I knew that wouldn't last ... and so that's what was painted first ... in the first five to ten minutes before it was driven away. Lucky timing. Or smart thinking.

This trip has provided me with plenty of posts to come. I've now turned in seven paintings. One more half day of painting to go with the gala tomorrow (Saturday) night. The paintings being created this week are nothing short of stunning. The exhibit at the Wayne Art Center continues through June 30. You won't want to miss it.

Oh, and our lunch and dinner today were unbelievably great. That helps. Lunch was at the Wedge and Fig in Philly and dinner was at Matador in Wayne. Try them both. So good.

Exhibits and Events

May 15-19, Wayne Plein Air Festival 2012, one of 34 artists juried to participate in a plein air competition and exhibit in and around Wayne, PA. Gala Preview and Artists' Reception, Saturday, May 19, 6-10pm at the Wayne Art Center. Exhibition to follow May 20-June 23 at the Wayne Art Center.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100):
www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Goat Day at Wayne Plein Air

2012-05-17T23:48:00.003-04:00

"Here's Looking At You, Kid II," oil, 14"h x 11"w, copyright Jill Banks 2012

Today, the 30+ juried artists of Wayne Plein Air turned in our first three painting days' worth of work. Receiving was from 7 to 9pm. We got there at 7 and the first of my five paintings to be checked in was #57 ... indicating there were plenty of early birds with plenty of work each.

I had a whole lot of fun this morning, in the company of Belle, the goat. I returned to the farm where the kickoff/pig roast/pot luck party was hosted ... just to paint Belle. She' a beauty ... and apparently, a hungry one. I had to hold on to ... or more, accurately, retrieve a lot of my painting gear and accessories. Belle went after my name tag, the plastic sleeved sign that identified me as a Wayne Plein Air painter, and a trash bag. All had to be tug-a-warred out of her mouth's grasp.

"Goatyard," oil, 11"h x 14"w, copyright Jill Banks 2012

Standing near her piece of land, I created two paintings. One a close-up when she happened to be visiting (hunting for more goodies) and then a more distant view ... munching on grass in the pen. I painted what I could see. Waited patiently for a view more like the ones on my canvas. Was rewarded often. Loved every minute painting Belle.

Oh, and lots of other potential paintings beckoned on this farm. It was very, very, very hard to head away.

But now, paintings of Belle, and three others are waiting to be hung at the Wayne Art Center. Tomorrow holds another painting day ... maybe in Philadelphia. Saturday morning is our last day of the competition ... with the morning spent in downtown Wayne. I know what I want to paint. That's what ... one-half of the battle. Not really. But, it's a start.

Goat Inspiration

Exhibits and Events

Rainy Day Strategies for Wayne Plein Air

2012-05-15T21:36:00.000-04:00

"Main Line Station," oil, 20"h x 16"w, copyright Jill Banks 2012

This HAS to be a short post ... so I can go to sleep and rest up for a very full day tomorrow. Today was the first painting day for Wayne Plein Air ... and this morning it poured. All last night I was trying to think about the locations to visit today and even on the car en route, I was flip-flopping. The destination for the rainy morn turned out to be under cover outside at the Wayne Train Station ... looking in on the cafe. This painting is prettier than it looks here. That will probably be true all week as my photography set ups are haphazard. Tomorrow night there will be no time to post ... but that just means more to tell you about later in the week.

There was another destination for this afternoon. A rather breathtaking farm. And, rather doesn't apply. Again, more later on that.

Exhibits and Events

"New York State of Mind" and "NYC Street" Go To New Home

2012-05-12T21:07:00.002-04:00

"New York State Of Mind," 40"h x 30"w in its new home

Because last Wednesday was packed full, I postponed this post about a very special delivery. Two of my New York City paintings found their way to new walls that evening. Randy and I helped pick the spot, but my job was easier. "New York State of Mind" and "NYC Street" are both large paintings ... and with the frames, hard on Randy to hold up to try spot after spot.

Barbara and George treated us to drinks and hors d'oeuvres and a warm welcome before the heavy lifting got underway. With visiting, snacking, figuring out where to hang the pieces and actually hanging them, we were there for quite awhile. Our hosts must have been ready for us to get out of there so they could have dinner (I'd eaten right before with the poker club -- see Wednesday's post) ... but they were too kind to shoo us.

The reason two paintings were delivered is because we'd brought both of the pieces over a few months back to help make the choice between the two easier. It didn't. "New York State of Mind" and "NYC Street" both looked equally fantastic there ... and the decision was to purchase not one, but two.

"NYC Street," 30"h x 40"w in the family room

It was a fun night. They are terrific pieces that fit their new owners and new home to a "t."

Today, I'm still packing and actually did some shopping for the Wayne Pleir Air painting trip. Lots more to do.

Exhibits and Events

"Coffee or Tea?" Painting In Progess

2012-05-11T21:48:00.004-04:00

"Coffee or Tea?" work in progress, oil on Raymar panel, 16"h x 20"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

I did paint at Katie's Coffee in the Old Brogue (where my solo exhibit "Out and About" hangs this month) on Wednesday ... setting up my easel right about 12:59pm. Not exactly what I planned, but life decided it was it charge ... not me. Thank you to those of you who watched or talked with me. There's more to do on this one, I think primarily because my painting surface was not cooperating. I'll have to build the paint up ... much more.

This is a tardy report because yesterday took me to the Art League store, gallery to look at the exhibit, a short visit with Margaret Cerutti (friend and organizer of all those art historical tours Randy and I have been on) and another short visit with Danni Dawson - artist, teacher, mentor. In the afternoon, I worked (slightly) at touching up this painting before heading to the Spring fundraiser for the McLean Project for the Arts to celebrate 50 years connecting the community with the arts and help propel it for fifty more. What an extraordinary organization of volunteers, staff, sponsors and supporters! Pretty extraordinary.

And, today I was trying to get organized. That's not a one-day job, but soon it's off to a week for Wayne Plein Air. I'm not ready, yet here it comes.

Exhibits and Events

"Peaches And Cream Peonies" Painting Today

2012-05-08T21:19:00.001-04:00

"Peaches and Cream Peonies," oil, 16"h x 8"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Francie Johnson brought in a profusion of peonies for Still Life class today. I love a lot of different flowers ... but peonies and sunflowers head the list. Peonies for their generosity of form, size, everything.

So in between teaching and working on the commissioned portrait, there were peonies.

Painting at the Brogue
Tomorrow, (Wednesday, May 9) from 1-4pm, I'll be painting somewhere in the Old Brogue, maybe in Katie's Coffee, maybe on the front patio. I scoped out some potential spots to set up the easel today. The Old Brogue is located at 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066. You're welcome to come watch ... whatever/whoever it is ... develop on my canvas.

Exhibits and Events

"Sunflowers In The Studio, Too" Work in Progress and More...

2012-05-07T21:28:00.001-04:00

"Sunflowers In My Studio, Too" work in progress, oil, 30"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Sunflowers have found their way into my studio many, many times. There is a "Sunflowers in the Studio" ... one of my paintings that I visited just last week in its new-ish home. That painting was the result of my Dad calling me up ... and telling me he had the most beautiful vase of sunflowers ... would I like him to bring them over? My answer was yes.

"Sunflowers In The Studio, Too" is of the flower arrangement Dad made for Sunday's reception for my "Out & About" exhibit. The title includes "Too" instead of "Two" because right behind this painting is a portrait commission that I'm working on now. You'll get a glimpse of the right side of it in it's early stage. On the floor behind it, leaning against the wall is one of the panels of my "100 Faces in 100 Days" project. The red table is a metal cart that my great aunt owned ... that now acts as the well-used taboret in my studio. The sunflowers have plenty of company.

"Sunflowers In My Studio," oil, 24"h x 18"w, private collection

I just started painting the final portrait after lots of preparatory work. What a relief it is to start. Until I put paint to canvas, portrait commission work is daunting. The preparations are incredibly important (sketching, color studies, conceptualizing, composing, determining the size, getting the canvas stretched, selecting source materials, and organizing) ... but also time-consuming ... and I get antsy to paint. It was a joy to have a chance to dig in ... with the initial sketch and then starting to develop one of the four subjects (three humans, one canine) in the painting. Yea!

The photo is poor (of "Sunflowers...") ... lots of reasons for that ... but maybe the photos will improve as the painting progresses.

Painting In the Old Brogue

Wednesday, May 9, 1-4pm
Wednesday, May 23, 1-4pm
Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue Irish Pub
760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066
You're welcome to look on or check in. I'm not sure exactly where my easel will be ... or what I'll be painting. Two days to figure out some of that. I hope to see you there!
Come see, and you'll be able to take a look at my "Out & About" exhibit, too. Lots of too's today.
See the exhibit online on my web site. "Out & About" continues through May 31.

Exhibits and Events

Thanks for Coming to "Out & About"

2012-05-06T21:49:00.000-04:00

The opening reception for my "Out & About" Solo Exhibit at Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue was met with a steady stream of very nice people ... familiar and some unfamiliar but welcome faces. It was a fun day ... and I enjoyed sharing stories about this special selection of paintings.

Unusually, my Mom and Dad came ten minutes after the start of the reception. Had my Mom been there, the three young ladies who thought they could pass through the room where my paintings hung to enter the other side of the restaurant ... would have been stopped in their tracks and introduced to her daughter's (my) paintings lining the walls.

It was fun. I'm extremely lucky to have found people who have followed my work, love it, own it or would like to own it or help me in whatever way they can. That means so much to me.

During the reception, I was talking non-stop. When it's busy, there's no thought about cameras or capturing the action. Oh well. I promise that people were there.

The great thing about having an exhibit here, is that many, many, many people see it all month long, morning to night. "Out & About" -- my opinion -- looks its very best when the sun's gone down and the paintings just glow.

Thank you to all who came this afternoon. If you haven't made it in there yet, I hope you get the chance to come take a good look.

I will be painting somewhere in the Brogue on Wednesday, May 9 and Wednesday, May 23 ... and perhaps more. Times will be posted here ... hopefully, by tomorrow night.

Exhibits and Events

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm. Preview the exhibit here.

May 15-19, Wayne Plein Air Festival 2012, one of 34 artists juried to participate in a plein air competition and exhibit in and around Wayne, PA. Gala Preview and Artists' Reception, Saturday, May 19, 6-10pm at the Wayne Art Center. Exhibition to follow May 20-June 23 at the Wayne Art Center.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

"Grazing on Buttercups" Painting on the Farm

2012-05-03T21:33:00.000-04:00

"Grazing on Buttercups," oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Today's treat was a field trip (I was in a field) to Francie's farm ... and invitation extended to my Still Life and Portrait class. We were there armed with Cadmium yellow paint to capture the buttercups ... and I followed three horses (two shown) wherever the grass was greener.

They'd go away ... to stand in the cool of their lower level stalls ... and I'd concentrate on the grass, or trees or sky.

Painting outdoors is still a messy, challenging business. Inevitably, a gnat flies in your eye. Bugs land on the painting. Stuff happens.

Yet it was a wonderful day ... enjoying the company of horses. After painting, Francie and I watched her husband sail his model boat in the swimming pool while the dogs relaxed on the lawn.

There is so much to paint there. Lots to inspire.

Dinner was in the Snuggery (what Katie's Coffee becomes at night) at the Old Brogue. That's the third dinner there this week ... and the second time with the paintings from my "Out & About" solo exhibit surrounding me. It's fun to be in there with the paintings on display. Pretty cool. See details about the exhibit below.

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm. Preview the exhibit here.

May 15-19, Wayne Plein Air Festival 2012, one of 34 artists juried to participate in a plein air competition and exhibit in and around Wayne, PA. Gala Preview and Artists' Reception, Saturday, May 19, 6-10pm at the Wayne Art Center. Exhibition to follow May 20-June 23 at the Wayne Art
Center.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Dinner With the Poker Club Times Two

2012-05-02T21:35:00.000-04:00

My Dad's poker club buddies (and me, to the left) in front of "The Poker Club"

Tonight, my Dad's poker club buddies came to the Old Brogue to see the painting of them "The Poker Club" for the first time finished ... and to have dinner where it's being displayed all month. It was fun watching them stream in the room with big smiles on their faces. In the painting, they are all pretty animated. Same is true in real life. What intrigued me was the interaction between all of them. A sign of friendship is giving each other a hard time. There always seems to be plenty of that.

"The Poker Club," oil, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

My "Out & About" exhibit of twelve paintings, is on display in Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, May 1-31 at 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066.

Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm ... plus I'll be painting there on Wednesday, May 9 and Wednesday, May 23. Check back here or my web site for those times.

There were other special parts of the day ... including delivery and installation of two of my NYC paintings to a collector. They look gorgeous there. Photos and text to come some time soon. It's been a long day... and another adventure awaits tomorrow.

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm.

May 15-19, Wayne Plein Air Festival 2012, one of 34 artists juried to participate in a plein air competition and exhibit in and around Wayne, PA. Gala Preview and Artists' Reception, Saturday, May 19, 6-10pm at the Wayne Art Center. Exhibition to follow May 20-June 23 at the Wayne Art
Center.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Jill Banks "Out & About" Exhibit Is Up!

2012-05-01T21:40:00.001-04:00

Six of my twelve paintings hanging at Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue

This afternoon, Randy and I hung twelve pieces at Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue. It took two hours ... one every 10 minutes. Not exactly mach speed.

Some of my photos need re-taking, but here's a shot of the main wall you see walking in. "Sunset in NYC" (the NYC skyline painted in my hotel shower) is hung back behind the bar/counter ... "Stepping Out" (my painting of horses) is near the door.

We hung "Two for Tea," the painting created almost two years ago inside the Brogue of two women enjoying tea ... at the table we've sat at many, many times. Also in the show is "Cars and Coffee," painted on the hill in front of the Brogue. One of the wait staff was so glad that was in the show as she was working the day I was painting it.

The Brogue feels like home. It's a lot like the sitcom "Cheers." The dining rooms are filled with friends. The wait staff know what you're going to order. The Brogue is a big part of the community. The place to gather for all of us who don't spend too much time in the kitchen.

It's a coffee house in the morning to early afternoon. Takes a two-hour break. Then, it's an extension of the Brogue restaurant for dinner. I love having my work there.

Tomorrow ... early evening ... I'll be having dinner in there with the members of "The Poker Club" who will be looking at the finished painting for the first time ... live. That will be fun!

Take a look at the exhibit online ... or better yet, come!

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm.

May 15-19, Wayne Plein Air Festival 2012, one of 34 artists juried to participate in a plein air competition and exhibit in and around Wayne, PA. Gala Preview and Artists' Reception, Saturday, May 19, 6-10pm at the Wayne Art Center. Exhibition to follow May 20-June 23 at the Wayne Art
Center.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

"Jill Banks: Out & About" Exhibit Goes Up Tomorrow

2012-04-30T21:48:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow afternoon, Randy and I hang my "Out & About" Exhibit at Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue. Two vehicles are loaded up with paintings in a room that can hold a maximum of twelve pieces... so we have way too many and I'll be editing in the afternoon.

For the last year, post my "100 Faces in 100 Days" project that ended April 10, 2011 -- I've been open to trying new things ... like painting plein air (even with heat, bugs, challenges), putting up my easel to paint at the farm, asking to paint my Dad's poker club, accepting invitations to paint in different places and outside my comfort zone. Each challenge has brought with it new inspiration. It's more fun to paint today ... than ever.

"Sunset in NYC" painted from the hotel room shower, 24"h x 36"w,©Jill Banks 2012

Stories from the journey. The excitement of trying new things. The experience of being in a particular place that specific day. That's what "Out & About" is about. I hope you'll come take a look.

You're Invited!

"Out & About" Exhibit of oils by Jill Banks

what: Exhibit of my recent paintings (10-12) from adventures near and far

where: Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue Irish Pub, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA

when: May 1 - May 31, 2012
Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm

Preview the exhibit online at:
www.JillBanks.com
(although I'll know what's really included in the show when it's hung on May 1 ... so, subject to change.)

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm.

May 15-19, Wayne Plein Air Festival 2012, one of 34 artists juried to participate in a plein air competition and exhibit in and around Wayne, PA. Gala Preview and Artists' Reception, Saturday, May 19, 6-10pm at the Wayne Art Center. Exhibition to follow May 20-June 23 at the Wayne Art
Center.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Trip to the National Gallery of Art

2012-04-27T21:35:00.000-04:00

Chickens by Itō Jakuchū

This morning I took advantage of the fact that anything painted today would not be dry when hanging my solo show on Tuesday. There's freedom in that.

Instead of futzing and fixing, Randy and I headed to the National Gallery of Art to see Itō Jakuchū's (1716-1800) thirty-scroll set of paintings, Colorful Realm of Living Beings. Someone from Disney should have been involved in crowd direction because humans need it. I had to really work to be able to see the art and inevitably a handbag would be in the way ... or a tall soul ... or someone finished with seeing a piece would still plant themselves right in front of it.

Despite that ... the paintings were just incredible. Itō's attention to detail is beyond belief ... and beyond the limits of my eyesight. He painted in more than I could see or comprehend. He leads the eye. I love his subject matter, flora and fauna, lots of roosters and hens, insects, frogs, fish, other fowl.

My favorite scroll painting in the group was "Chickens" that appeared so abstract with roosters facing side to side, stacked against each other. One rooster looked at me. A modern moment.

I left the exhibit wanting to know more. What was his medium? How forgiving was it? How did he prepare for each piece? They were so complex and detailed ... it's just difficult to imagine the working process.

He knew how to paint snow.

Lunch

After viewing the exhibit, Randy and I headed at the Garden Cafe. With all the crowds, there was a wait, so I drew a portrait this time of the "Girl with Water Lilies" statue that presides over the front of the cafe.

"Portrait of Girl with Water Lilies" is a graphite/wash drawing of the bronze "Girl with Water Lilies" by Herbert Adams (American, 1858-1945).

The success of the show made lunch a bit crazed. Food was brought in and scooped up and Randy and I spent a good bit staring at platefuls of lunch with no utensils to make it ours.

Still nice.

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

April 3-30, "Classical Painting Atelier" was accepted for the April All-Media Membership Exhibit at the Art League in Alexandria. "Torpedo Factory Dock" is in the Bin Gallery. Both can be seen this month at the Torpedo Factory, Art League Gallery, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA.

April 2 -30, "Sunflowers and Gladioli" and "Cup of Tea" are on exhibit as part of the Great Falls Studios group exhibit at the Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA throughout the month.

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

"The Tea Party" Modified

2012-04-26T21:51:00.001-04:00

Another for my upcoming "Out & About" solo show...

This was painted during my last show at Katie's Coffee ... while these two were having tea. See the framed art above them? That's where "Two for Tea" might be hanging. (I changed the title, too since posting this. If I messed with the post title, all sorts of ruckus gets raised. So, I left it.) Come see next week.

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm.

You're Invited! "Out and About" Solo Exhibit Coming Up

2012-04-25T19:11:00.000-04:00

You're Invited!

With one week to go before hanging my show "Out & About" ... I was still finalizing pieces that are potential candidates for the exhibit. (That's scary ... but there are plenty of choices.) This one was started at the French Bakery in Hilton Head in March ... but it could be anywhere. A place I'd want to be.

That's husband Randy and my Mom in the distant table. Waiting for the painter in the smock to finish up for the day.

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm.

Couldn't Resist: "Charmin" Portrait Sketch Today

2012-04-23T21:22:00.000-04:00

Today's model for portrait class was coming in for a single-day pose ... and recent terms I've been relying on students to get involved in recruiting interesting faces and people to sit. Christine brought us her sister-in-law, Charmin ... who I haven't seen for a very long time. Although much of the class was missing, the painters in attendance were excited to tackle Charmin's beautiful red hair. Actually, I was dying to paint her.

Lots of fun!!!!!

Charmin had a great time modeling for us. Mutual joy.

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

May 1-31, "Out and About" Solo Show, Katie's Coffee at the Old Brogue, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Sunday, May 6, 2-5pm.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Weekend at the Art Fair

2012-04-21T20:52:00.000-04:00

My "booth" at the Spring Art Fair

Today was spent with 20-or-so artist friends from Great Falls Studios and our visitors at the weekend (April 21 & 22) Spring Art Fair being held at the Village Green Day School, 790 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. That's where you'll find me (us), too, tomorrow from 10am-5pm. My voice is strained ... along with a few other parts ... so it's time to rest up for another full day.

We did see many familiar faces to Great Falls Studios events ... and many new ones who traveled from all around the DC area, thanks in great part to coverage in the Washington Post Weekender section.

Come visit if you get the chance.

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

"Sunset in NYC" ... Probably Done

2012-04-19T21:39:00.000-04:00


"Sunset in NYC," oil, 24"h x 36"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

My photo's not the best ... taken at night, no tripod, etc. ... but I believe this one, started in my hotel room shower in Soho, is now finished. When it's hung in my upcoming solo show, I hope it finds a spot where the sun touches it at dusk. It's crazy what happens to this painting that time of day.

This weekend will find me at the Great Falls Studios Art Fair, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. There I'll join 20 other artists inside the Village Green Day School, 790 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. The booth is being set up in our family room in anticipation. The house is torn up from floor to ceiling. Funny how a solo show and art fair can do that to a place.

I hope to see you there! (At the Art Fair.)

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”

Working on "The Spanish Steps"

2012-04-18T21:32:00.000-04:00

Quick post ... because it's time to rest. Although this one was proclaimed finished, I wanted to return to "The Spanish Steps" -- a view of Rome -- before including this one in my upcoming solo show. Despite efforts, today was not tremendously productive, thus, among other things, I'll have to return to this to REALLY finish it. (But it is prettier tonight than it was this morning. That's good, right?)

The best laid plans...

Exhibits and Events

April 14-May 4, Salon International 2012, Greenhouse Gallery, San Antonio, TX. “Contrapposto”