Eat Well, Travel Often

When I was in art school, I remember writing my “artist statement”. I can remember being reprimanded by my painting instructor who said that my chosen statement of “I like to paint pretty things” wasn’t creative enough. So, 15 years later, here is my new statement. Pretty much sums me and my art up in a single phrase.

I am fascinated by color- whether it’s in an awesome cotton candy sunrise, a donut with sprinkles or a lush landscape. My portfolio is as diverse as my interests, but one thing is common: fresh and full of color. 

So, as boring as “i like to paint pretty things” is, I am still doing it years later- with a side of donuts. www.rachelalvarezart.com

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yesterday and today.

Christian is still sleeping, but I am taking a break because my studio is losing its natural light. boo. Over the last two days I was able to put the 1st layer down of two new 6×6 paintings.  Both are inspired by Elliot Island, MD.

Yesterday I started the waterways image and today the country road.  I am learning to be more bold in my paint thickness. This will help my efficiency in this series, I think.  I can still remember my painting teacher telling me that I should lay it on.  I guess back then I was more cautious about mistakes.  I am really trying my best to get the values correct from the beginning- this allows me the confidence to paint thicker strokes.

Here is what I did yesterday and today:

 

NapTime Series, 1.5 hrs each

Works in progress

Today I spent a little over 2 hours painting.  That is about the norm for the last 2 weeks or so. It’s been so nice to get the brushes wet, turn on my Fleet Foxes Pandora station and disappear into the studio for a little bit.  It’s amazing what a couple hours of focused art can do for a person.

For me, since I paint landscapes primarily, it is an opportunity to focus on the beauty that is around me.  Sometimes days, weeks and years seem to fly by.  With painting, however, it is available to capture a single moment in time- and hold it there. It’s kind of like getting the opportunity to breathe in that fresh air again.

In the last 2 weeks I have started 7 new paintings and completed 3.  It’s been a great challenge to stay motivated, focused and energetic.  Here is what I have so far:

NapTime Series

This week I have already completed another 6×6 small work that isn’t pictured here.  It will be fun to see what I can finish in the limited NapTime that I have.