"Fetishism"

After finishing my traditional paintings, I enjoy immersing myself in the world of abstract art. I affectionately refer to this practice as "mindless painting," where I allow my thoughts to wander freely as I translate them onto canvas. In my latest piece, titled "Fetishism," I explore the abstract representation of various body parts.

Self-Portrait. 17th Century Style

Beginning of glazing application

Beginning of self-portrait

The only aspect of this painting that resonated with me was the dress. Despite my efforts to achieve accurate proportions, I found myself struggling. In frustration, I resorted to tracing other images to ensure my painting resembled the individual rather than a monstrous interpretation.

Despite dedicating ample time to sketching my subjects, I continually fall short of capturing their essence. However, I recognize that patience and practice are essential companions on the journey to mastery.

"Mt Palisades" Completed

This painting has undergone numerous transformations, and as of now, it stands as a completed piece! Initially, my perspective was skewed by the amalgamation of two photos. The interplay of lighting, shadows, and the arrangement of foliage led to a series of evolving changes in the piece.

Before painting over the foliage on the left side of the painting, I found it to be overly busy. However, after making the adjustment, I found myself wishing I had left it untouched. Adding more paint created an unintended texture to the leaves, resulting in an appearance that didn't quite sit well with the overall composition. Ah, the joys of the learning curve!

"Mt Palisades" update

"Mt Palisades"

A work in progress. Will post more when completed.

New Addition "Mt Palisades"

Here's a glimpse of my latest painting, inspired by a photo captured during a hike at Mississippi Palisades Park in Savanna, IL. Upon reviewing the photo, I felt compelled to introduce mountains into the background to enhance visual interest. Drawing inspiration from the work of my favorite photographer,

Thomas Mangelsen, I embarked on my first venture into mountain landscapes, also experimenting with a palette knife for the first time, a departure from my usual brush technique.

Initially, wielding the palette knife felt awkward, given my familiarity with brushes. As I navigated the interplay of knife and paint, realizing my envisioned image proved challenging. Over the years, this painting underwent numerous transformations. There were moments where I contemplated starting anew, yet I persisted, layering paint upon paint.

At times, I found satisfaction in its evolution, only to later mar it with additional textures that detracted from its essence. For nearly a decade, the canvas languished in a corner, until I resolved to reinvigorate it with fresh strokes.

Photograph by Diana Van Baale
at Mississippi Palisades Park

Photograph by Thomas Mangelsen

How Many Steps Does It Take To Create A Painting?

The painting process varies with each painting.

Update 2024: More than a decade later and I still have yet to sign it into completion.

"Emalee" Oil Portrait Complete

After six long months...I finally called it quits on this painting. I had so many issues with this painting that I must say I am relieved to move on to my next project. When learning how to's....on a painting that means so much can cause much unwanted stress. This portrait was not a commissioned piece but one I am planning on giving my daughter for a graduation gift. My goal was realism but as you can see it is far from that. I need to get real and realize, realism is not my thing.