Studio News

Studio Visit

I’m excited to share that I'm one of three artists featured in Hyperallergic's column, "A View From the Studio." With over 1 million monthly visitors, Hyperallergic is a leading online magazine covering contemporary art and culture. While it's free, your financial support is appreciated. (Yes, I'm giving myself and Hyperallergic a shameless plug here!) Love their content!

New Work in Progress

You might recall my mention in a newsletter a year ago about acquiring a sizable roll (60” x 180”) of Canson 140 lb. watercolor paper. Originally meant for use during my artist residency, it ended up back in my studio due to a lack of wall space. Eventually, I had the roll cut into 14.5” x 14.5” squares (or tiles). This year, my challenge is to produce one small painting each week, prompting me to reflect on my studio habits. Currently on week 12, the journey is fun and insightful. I love exploring new materials or faced with what’s next. To see the progress, please go to New Work on my website; scroll down to the section titled “(not) on a roll”. My overarching goal is to assemble these squares (tiles) into a cohesive work spanning approximately 9’ x 7’ across 5 rows. I envision presenting this artwork in an interactive setting, where viewers can engage with it—perhaps rearranging it by dominant color or chronological sequence.

🌟 In Time For The Holidays…

Unwrap Art! 🎨🎁

As the holiday season approaches, let's channel peace. This year, let your loved ones unwrap the timeless gift of art. Here's your guide to finding my art:

🖼️ Edna Contemporary, San Luis Obispo: The first two pieces from the Aftermath series are on sale at Edna Contemporary. Elevate your home décor with this artwork; perfect size for almost any wall.

🎨 Los Angeles Art Association / Gallery 825, West Hollywood: AURORA, LAAA's holiday art sale, features artwork by emerging artists priced at $1,000 and less, including my work “Bounced Around” from the series Life In The Round. AURORA is an online exhibition that runs until December 31, 2023.

🌟 Black Friday Flash Sale! This Black Friday (through December 31, 2023) visit my website and browse. When you find that special piece, reach out to me, and together we will figure out the rest, e.g., gift wrap, shipping etc.

🎁 Let’s Wrap Up the Year with Sketchbook Freedom!

📔✨ Join me on Sunday, December 31, 2023, from 1:30 to 3:30 pm for Sketchbook Freedom workshop. Cost is $50, includes sketchbook and payable in advance via PayPal. There's magic in sketching, and your sketchbook can be a private haven of inspiration. Whether you're an experienced artist or a novice, this workshop is designed for you. Learn tips to kickstart and maintain a daily sketching practice, creating a treasure chest of ideas, observations, and emotions that will fuel your art. 🖋️ To register, send an email to vicky@vickyhoffman.com at least a few days prior to the workshop.

Warm Regards

This holiday season, let's not just give gifts; let's give experiences, love and beauty. Wishing you a festive and art-filled holiday season!

Perfect Timing

I’m thrilled to be one of the featured artists in 805 Living – the Arts + Culture issue (October) plus a big shout out to Carol Paquet, Lynne Andujar (publisher), and Joan Tapper (contributing writer.) Congratulations to the other artists too. YAY! This is perfect timing as October is Harvest season in SLO county with lots of visitors, wine pick-ups, open art studios and lovely meals. The magazine distribution started on September 29 with 25,000 print copies to many restaurants, four- and five-star hotels and other locations. Also, there is an e-blast to launch the digital edition to a database of 18,000!

To view digital editions, go to: https://www.805living.com/archive.html

Cool Summer Deals

I may regret this moment; however, I’m selling a lot of my oil painting supplies. If you’re interested, please send me an email. I am willing to meet you somewhere to make the exchange of product for cash but I’m not keen to ship.

  • Princeton and Winsor Newton Brushes: Most of the brushes are Filberts and range in size. The brushes are almost new. Take care of your brushes and they will take care of you was my motto. Prices range depending on size from $3 to $20.

  • Oil bars: There are only a few. Price is $0.50 each.

  • Galkyd Light 4.2 fl. oz. (unopened): $10

  • Oils (transparent and opaque): The price depends on how much of the tube I used and there are some full tubes. Most of the tubes are 37ml and most of the oils are either Gamblin or Winton. Prices range between $5 to $10. Utrecht oils are about $3 tube.

Exhibiting

I am pleased to be participating in The LAST CA 101 exhibit at Redondo Beach Historic Library, located at 309 Esplanade in Redondo Beach. I have three pieces in this exhibit which includes works by 133 other artists from 46 California cities plus guests from other states. In addition to the exhibit, there is a gift shop with 20 artists and an installation called “THE LAST CA 101 BANQUET.” The gallery and gift shop are open noon to 7:00 p.m. August 26 – 27, September 1-3, and September 8-10.

  • Opening Reception: Friday, August 25 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

  • Closing Reception: Sunday, September 10, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. I would love to see you at the closing reception.

This exhibition benefits Friends of Redondo Beach Arts (FRBA), a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Their mission is to enhance the City of Redondo Beach and the South Bay Communities’ quality of life by providing art and cultural experiences. They are dedicated to making the arts an integral part of the South Bay’s experience by helping to bring the highest quality arts and arts education programs to our residents and visitors.

More Eyeballs on my Art

I’m delighted to share with you about three upcoming receptions where my artwork is being showcased so get ready to mark your calendar.

Closing reception at bG Gallery on Saturday, July 1 from 7pm to 9pm. I have three pieces in Spectrum-Gestalt exhibit. It’s fun; it’s a rainbow of color and the work is hung salon-style. If you missed the opening reception, join me at the closing reception. bG Gallery is located at Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Ave., #A-2, in Santa Monica, CA and this exhibit is up until July 5.

Spectrum-Gestalt, the blue section

Aftermath II was selected by juror Kassandra Voyagis, producer and director of LA Art Show and Art Palm Beach, to be included in the group exhibit, Specimen, at Gallery 825/Los Angeles Art Association. The reception is scheduled for Saturday, July 8 from 10am to 5pm. Gallery 825 is located at 825 La Cienega, West Hollywood, CA and this exhibit is up until July 28.

Aftermath II

upRooted is headed to the Brand Library & Art Center with the opening reception also scheduled for Saturday, July 8 from 7pm to 9:30pm. This year’s annual exhibition, Brand 51 Works on Paper, features 98 artworks out of over 1,200 entries from around the country selected by juror Ara Oshagan, curator of ReflectSpace Gallery in Glendale. Brand Library & Art Center is located at 1601 W. Mountain St., Glendale, CA. The Brand Library & Art Center is truly a unique public library focused on visual arts and music! The architecture and gardens are stunning and not to be missed. This exhibit, Works on Paper, is up until September 1, 2023.

Notes from My Artist Residency

I had a great experience at Dorland Mountain Arts Colony. I will definitely apply to more residencies and one week was too short. I barely touched my giant roll of watercolor paper as finding wall space that could accommodate a large sheet was close to impossible. Dang it! I completed two new artworks and started a third. I met some lovely people, did a little hiking and enjoyed the sunsets.

New Art Alert

I’m thrilled to announce that Aftermath was selected to be showcased in a group exhibit at Gallery 825/Los Angeles Art Association. This artwork is in response to the atmospheric storm(s). I found intriguing debris in the Salinas River and used it to apply pigment to kozo paper. It’s a diptych – 30” x 60” on 2” cradle boards. The Salinas River, known fondly as the “upside down river,” is the longest underground river in the country, flowing both above and below ground for about 175 miles from its headwaters in the Los Padres National Forest to the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary.

  • Exhibition dates: June 3, 2023 through June 30, 2023 with the opening reception on Saturday, June 3 between 10am to 5pm. Let me know if you plan to attend the reception; perhaps we can meet.

  • Location: Gallery 825, 825 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, CA

  • Juror for this exhibition: Walter Maciel of Walter Maciel Gallery in Culver City

Exciting Publication News

My work was chosen to be published in Studio Visit magazine – either in volume 53 or 54. Over 1,000 artists entered the competition and I was one of 350 artists invited by the juror, Francine Weiss, Chief Curator at the Newport Art Museum, to participate. Studio Visit magazine, published by Open Studios Press, reaches an audience of 2,000 selected curators and gallerists nationwide, as well as a growing subscriber base of collectors and art enthusiasts. Look out for this publication in the Fall of 2023.

Artist’s Retreat at Dorland Arts Colony

I’m delighted to be attending the residency program at the Dorland Arts Colony. This is a great opportunity to work in a location that is both inspiring and free from the distractions of daily life. I’m bringing the substantial 60” x 4 yds. watercolor paper, an array of new materials along with trusted paints and brushes. Be sure to follow me on social media for photos and updates.

Storytelling and how it helps us connect...

I’m very appreciative of the recent article posted online at VoyageLA. The goal at VoyageLA is to help hard-working, inspiring people tell their stories authentically and in their own words. In case you haven’t read the brief interview, visit the link.

Seeing and listening, all at once

Regarding the movie "Everything, Everywhere, All At Once," it's fascinating how different people can have such varied reactions to the same film. It's interesting to consider how our personal filters and experiences can greatly influence how we interpret and react to art. With this movie, there are two things that stand out for me – the absurd playfulness and the escape vehicle of a creative woman’s mind from the overwhelming responsibilities of daily life.

That said, I am reminded to keep an open mind and be willing to see things in a new light. At a recent visit to a museum, I asked the guard which piece of art was his favorite and his reply was the bronze Hulk, situated behind me. At first glance this is not my cup of tea, but upon further inspection, I appreciated its weight and material in a new way. Bronze is incongruous with the inflatable, comic-book hero. It plays with my psyche. I spent time looking for the flaws; there had to be something plastic on it. And then I laughed at myself.

Moral to the story (see how I’m connecting back to the headline)

Push the pause button. Take a moment to appreciate something from someone else's perspective. I’m reminded it's easy to get caught up in our own opinions and preferences. Take the time to consider other viewpoints that can broaden our understanding and appreciation of the world.

What Was I Thinking...

On Valentine’s Day, I saw an Instagram post from one of the best art supply stores in town, Art Central. The offer was Canson 140lb watercolor paper, 100% cotton, both hot and cold press rolls (60” x 5 yards.) The original price was $259.95; sale price $150. That’s a good deal in itself, however, if I liked, commented and shared this great offer on Instagram, I could purchase the roll for $90.

That was exactly the swift-kick-in-the-pants I needed to work larger. If I fumbled, struggled or botched the paper, the financial impact was minimal. Conversely, the reward could be greater confidence in working on a larger surface. A picture (or video) is worth 1,000 words of me trying to single-handedly hang the mammoth size paper on the wall. I had a conundrum. As you can see below, the desired wall has a shelf and I never measured the space above the shelf to the ceiling. That space alone would not accommodate 60”. After a few attempts, I was exhausted and gave it a rest for a few days. Eventually, I cut the paper to 36” x 60” with the remaining roll at 60” x 4 yards, which is still large. (Note to self: Measure twice; cut once.) Failure? Not at all. I will go to work on this paper and once complete, I’ll cut an even larger piece off the roll and enlist extra hands to hang it on my studio wall.

New work

In response to the atmospheric river which brought serious rainfall to California, I completed Aftermath. It’s a diptych (30” x 60” on a 2” cradle board) and mixed media (acrylic, kozo paper and debris from the Salinas River.) Next step: Schedule professional photographer and submit to select exhibits.

Workshop

On March 11 from 1:00 to 4:00p.m., I’ll be hosting Abstract Explored. This workshop introduces abstract drawing and painting in a fun and shared way. Participants will explore color, texture, shapes and mark making that will improve composition and improvisation. This workshop is designed to expand your ability to enjoy and respond to abstract art. This is the one workshop that requires a minimum of five people so please sign up early by sending me an email. Cost is $75, including materials. Workshop will be held at my friend’s studio in Atascadero.

Off To A Good Start ...

… with rain in California and two back-to-back exhibitions.

This painting, upRooted, is getting more mileage points than me! upRooted is a mixed media piece made with acrylic paint, oil-based pens, sewing thread, and kozo paper. Today, it leaves Sacramento and arrives in West Hollywood for another exhibition, Glossary, at Gallery 825 which opens on January 21 through February 24, 2023.

  • Location: 825 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, CA

  • Reception: Saturday, January 21 between 10am-5pm; Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend the reception.

  • Juror for this exhibition: Louis Stern of Louis Stern Fine Arts

More good news! I have three pieces, Bounced Around, Relational Gaps and Destruction/Creation in an online exhibition hosted by Shoebox Projects. All three pieces are mixed media using materials such as acrylic paint, watercolor, inks, spray paint, papers, mylar and a bedsheet. This exhibition, Making the Cut, opens on January 22 through February 17, 2023 and there are 44 artists participating.

• Live location on January 22, 2023: shoeboxprojects.com

• Artist Talk and Opening on January 22, 2023 at 3pm PST: hhttps://www.facebook.com/events/1210448393203175/ If you are not on Facebook, here is the zoom meeting link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88001638244... Meeting ID: 880 0163 8244, Passcode: 983396

Workshops for 2023

The workshops are planned for the year. The topic is listed next to the date and there’s lots of flexibility. If you see a workshop you want to attend but the date doesn’t work, let me know as soon as possible so I can make an adjustment. All workshops are 3 hours in length (1pm to 4pm) and cost is $75 including materials, with the exception of Sketchbook Freedom which is from 1:30 to 3:30 and cost is $50. To register, send email to vicky@vickyhoffman.com at least a few days prior to the workshop. All workshops are payable in advance via PayPal. Receive a 10% discount if you register for 3 or more workshops.

  • March 11, 2023 – Abstract Explored This workshop introduces you to abstract drawing and painting in a slightly collaborative way. You will explore color, texture, shapes and mark making that will improve composition and improvisation. This workshop is designed to expand your ability to enjoy and respond to abstract art. This is the one workshop that requires a minimum of 5 people so please sign up early.

  • May 6, 2023 – Collage Transfer Create inspirational art by delving into the many collage transfer techniques. Vicky will demo some of her favorite techniques, including some of the fussy applications. Transfers can enhance your work with wonderful depth and transparency.

  • June 3, 2023 – Introducing Encaustics This mini encaustic workshop provides a hands-on introduction to the basic techniques of the encaustic process – beeswax, resin and pigment. You will be introduced to transfers, mark making, embossing, incising, embedding elements, incorporating mixed media, papers and other secrets to achieve a smooth surface.

  • July 22, 2023 – Encaustic: Catch It While It’s Hot The prerequisite for this workshop is the introduction to encaustics and is a deeper dive with a greater emphasis on transfers and other materials. After each demonstration, participants will work at their pace and explore each of the techniques. Together, we will identify strengths, problem solve any technical issues and look for compositional clarity.

  • September 23, 2023 – YOU decide what the topic should be.

  • October 28, 2023 – YOU decide what the topic should be.

  • December 31, 2023 – Sketchbook Freedom There’s magic in a sketchbook and a sketchbook could be for your eyes only. This workshop is designed for artists looking to jump-start the daily practice of sketching, or for novices looking to explore sketch booking for the first time. Tips will be provided for starting — and sticking with it as a daily practice. You’ll have a treasure chest of ideas, observations, emotions and more.

Greetings & holiday gift giving ideas…

What’s new

Circles are fun as there’s no beginning, middle or end. To quote Feist, “the circle married the line” which as a side note is a great song with two different meanings. For me, I use circles as an ontological exploration of life circumstances and being. Here are three paintings – one is included in the online exhibition, Habitual, at Los Angeles Art Association running through December 31, 2022, the other is patiently waiting for a name and the third is Fixated/Freed.

Cookies and holiday reading

Tacos, pizza, guacamole are just a few of my favorite foods. Where does pie fit in? Recently, I was invited to a book signing at my friend’s home and we were greeted with pies…many pies. Beth M. Howard wrote World Piece. This is her memoir of traveling around the world to bring peace with one piece of pie at a time. It’s an inspiring read and she has received extensive media coverage from Forbes, Los Angeles Times, CBS This Morning, CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360 and more.

Another book by my friend Robyn Jamison who is an artist in Austin, Texas is on a mission to make modern and contemporary art accessible to everyone in the world. Hip, hip, hooray Robyn. Her book, The Magic of Modern Art, is on my list to complete reading over the holidays.

Lastly, my holiday present to myself is Syllabus by Lynda Barry. All I needed was a little nudge from my dear friend to say “read this” and within minutes, it was purchased. It should be delivered to my doorstep within the next 24 hours.

Wrap up 2022

Sketchbook Freedom workshop is scheduled for December 31, 2022 from 1:30 to 3:30. Cost is $50 and includes sparkling wine and a sketchbook. This is a fun gathering and does not require any art expertise. It’s playful and practical. To reserve your spot in the workshop, please email me.

Happy holidays with much joy and love.

Mark Your Calendar

I’m pleased to announce that one of my most recent pieces, upRooted, is included in an upcoming exhibition at Blue Line Arts, located at 405 Vernon St., Roseville, CA) This exhibition is a long-standing tradition between Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento and the Kingsley Art Club. The exhibition dates are December 3, 2022 through January 14, 2023 with the opening reception on Saturday, December 17 from 4 – 8 pm. (I have a conflict that day so I will not be attending the reception.) I started this painting in March 2022 when Ukrainians were fleeing for their lives. At the same time, my potted aloe vera plant was blooming. I was having a hard time with the juxtaposition of new growth among the backdrop of failed humanity. It took about five months to complete.

Sketchbook Freedom

As far as I’m concerned, there’s gold in my sketchbooks as I develop new ideas or toss out problems. And the sketchbook is for my eyes only; that’s the best part. Each year, I enjoy hosting a sketchbook workshop either at the tail end of the current year or at the start of the new year. It’s designed for all artists looking to jump-start the daily practice of sketching, or for novices looking to explore sketch booking for the first time. Tips will be provided for starting — and sticking with it as a daily practice. You’ll have a treasure chest of ideas, observations, emotions and more. This workshop is two hours in length and includes a glass of bubbles as we call out and call in the new year. If you’re interested, let me know by sending me an email and I’ll send more specifics as in date, time, location and cost.

Take a Peek Inside Artist’s Studios

Personally, I think visiting artist studios is one of the most fun things to do so I highly recommend. I recall seeing an artist’s WALL of Golden paints; it was amazing.

Visit Brewery Art Walk: Where Art Lives on Saturday and Sunday, November 5 and 6 from 11 am – 6 pm, 2100 N. Main St., Los Angeles. A special shoutout to Emily Halpern, Francine Lecoultre, Guillermo Bert, and Kristine Schomaker/Shoebox Projects.

Also visit Inglewood Open Studios on Saturday and Sunday, November 12 and 13 from noon – 5 pm, 1019 Manchester Ave., Inglewood, CA with a special shoutout to Susan Amorde.

Not to be Missed

Of An Infinite Solitude, a solo exhibition of Joey Feldman’s work continues through November 9, 2022.

Ink, Paper, Stone: Six Women Artists and the Language of Lithography continues at Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena through February 13, 2023.

William Kentridge: In Praise of Shadows continues at The Broad through April 9, 2023. He was born in South Africa and is known for his prints, animated films, drawings and theatre productions. I had the absolute pleasure of seeing a retrospective exhibition at the Zeitz Museum in Cape Town, South Africa in 2019. It was a heartbreaking, self-reflective and intimate. Don’t miss this rare opportunity as he hasn’t had a show like this in Los Angeles for over 20 years.

Special Note

In case you haven’t noticed, our days are getting shorter which means for many of us, we lose an hour this Sunday.

Your SLO County Art Guide for October…

I’m opening my studio along with many other artists in San Luis Obispo county. Come see my recent artwork and the source material behind those paintings. A little hint…dead branches and macarons. This 24th Annual Open Studios Art Tour is hosted by SLO County Arts Council. I am only participating on the following dates:

  • Saturday, October 15 and Sunday, October 16

  • 10:00am to 5:00pm both days with a closing party from 3:00pm to 5:00pm on Sunday

  • Catalog Studio #4, 1921 Vine St., Paso Robles

It gets better. I was selected to be one of the twenty-one artists to participate in the “preview show” at Hotel SLO (877 Palm St.) on Friday, October 7 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm for Art After Dark. I’ll be there so please swing by and say hello.

Many people have asked about the image at the bottom of the Contact Page of my website. Initially, I wanted to paint this message on the OUTside of my garage to remind me and others every day of the impact of art. I thought better of that idea so I painted this Martin Heidegger quote inside of my studio garage door. I’m grateful for Martin Heidegger’s wise words. He argues that “art is not only a way of expressing the element of truth in a culture, but the means of creating it and providing a springboard from which "that which is" can be revealed.” Pithy words…both statements are worth re-reading again and again. See for yourself during the studio visit.

One last thing while you’re exploring art. Be sure to check out Alyssa Monks: Be Perfectly Still, A Retrospective that continues at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art (1010 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo) through November 13. It’s not to be missed. Her attention to detail, light and water is truly remarkable. And be sure to walk around the corner from the museum and visit Edna Contemporary Fine Art (583 Dana Street, San Luis Obispo.)

In Good Company...

Found a New Home

I’m happy to report Untitled #1 (blue) found a new home, and the fun thing is this work of art is hanging in a wine cellar with other complementary art. The inspiration for this piece is the point off of San Simeon Bluffs. The owners like to hike so perhaps the next time they do that trail, they will see what moved me.

Covid on the Eiffel Tower

When I was 21 and in Paris, I was probably traveling on $10 per day. I don’t recall but I was either short on money or my quads were burning from climbing the stairs. Regardless, I never went to the top of the Eiffel Tower. On my recent trip to Bordeaux and Paris this summer, I was determined to “complete” this experience by taking the elevator to the top. And of course, the views are remarkable. Upon my return, I tested positive for Covid and fortunately, I only experienced a runny nose. By isolating at home, I had plenty of time to sort through the images. There is a lot of source material to consider for future paintings. I like the wall of bricks, shapes and colors of the macarons, the gradation of color from the cognac bottles and the outline of buildings.

Start, Stop, Start, Stop

The last few months my life seems to be full of starting a painting, stopping, starting and stopping. This is also true for this blog post. I have started it a number of times and then something comes up that requires my attention. When I come back to the painting or blog post it seems irrelevant. Is it simply me or is anyone else experiencing this phenomenon? More importantly, how do you manage it? I would love to hear. I tend to schedule studio time or social media in my calendar and yet, a particular situation arises, like a hot day or emergency, which seems more important or is a distraction. I’m not particularly fond of the word “seems” because the word “seems” to be a false statement or possibly a backhanded politeness. For example, “he seems to be busy…” or “she seems to be pleased…”

I brought up this topic with my fellow art friends and they shared two tips and they are:

  • leave the studio with something exciting happening on a piece

  • play with a sketch or write using the less dominant hand

Try these tips and let me know how it goes. And please share your own tip(s) by clicking on the comments area at the bottom of this blog post.

Back to scheduling our calendars; let’s not miss

Up until August 22, 2022 at Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, CA Alternate Realities: Altoon, Diebenkorn, Lobdell, Woelffer. These are some of my favorite and most influential artists. I love Frank Lobdell.

Up until September 2, 2022 at Brand Library and Art Center is a group exhibition called Abstract Los Angeles: Four Generations. Abstract art thrives. This show explores the continued dialog between artists over a period that spans roughly 80 years.

One of my all-time favorite artists is Carlos Almaraz. His work captures the essence of Los Angeles. The great news is The Cheech opened in June at the Riverside Art Museum and could possibly be the first museum in the U.S. dedicated to showcasing Chicano art. This is an A-list of artists ranging from Carlos Almaraz to Frank Romero and Patssi Valdez. Be sure to check out this center.

You Won’t Want To Miss…

My brain was happily overwhelmed. My eyes and ears couldn’t absorb anymore after a day of going to two art museums. Fortunately, with Stark Bar at the Los Angeles Museum of Art (LACMA), I didn’t have to go far for a cocktail.

Do not miss Pipilotti Rist at the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, on view through June 6, 2022. Seriously! The video exhibition is at an architectural scale and expands the entire building. It truly is a 3-dimensional immersive. The videos are splashed on table tops, ceilings, walls, floorboards and more. It’s remarkable how she recreates dreams in that kind of odd, juxtaposition where dreams don’t make sense. And guess what? You’re awake to witness, participate and consume this visible world.

Next stop, I was lucky enough to see the Black American Portraits at LACMA before it came down on April 17. The exhibition was significant as it spanned two centuries to present day. Here are a few of my favorite works.

Across the walkway at LACMA, there is the Barbara Kruger exhibition called Thinking of You, I Mean Me, I Mean You which is on view through July 17, 2022. This is the largest and most comprehensive presentation of her work in 20 years. It’s funny to say I’m at a loss for words to share my experience, especially because her work is based on provocative language, and yet it's the “noise” we hear constantly through the media, friends and elsewhere. She invites us to reconsider how we relate and listen to one another.

To coincide with International Encaustic Artists’ special exhibition CONVERGENCE – Wax on the Water, I hosted an encaustic workshop at Art Center Morro Bay last weekend. It was fun and the participants now have a better understanding of what is possible with beeswax, resin and pigment. Most likely, I will be doing an advanced encaustic workshop in May. If you’re interested, send me an email as I’m still securing the dates and location.

Tips, delays and a benefit reception…

A few nights ago, I woke up at 4:00 a.m. with a brilliant idea for a new body of work. And for about an hour, I tossed and turned. I visualized the gallery wall, the number of cradle boards needed, associated storage, logistics and more. Then I woke up and after a few cups of coffee with a clear head, I decided this “brilliant” idea may not be all that unique so I should get back to the work I’ve already started. This machination leads me to a few tips.

  • Tip #1: Decades ago, I was working on a painting. It was about 50 percent complete. An art instructor suggested I work out the problem on paper before going any further on the canvas. This was a very good tip and saved me from numerous frustrating moments or losing some good work.

  • The second-best tip I ever received is if I’m suffering, there’s probably some form of integrity missing.

  • Tip #3: At the end of the day, leave something unfinished as this will provide a clear plan for the next day.

The first two tips let me release the tight grip I may have on the problem. I become a bit more flexible, resilient and playful.

Delayed Notice

There was a fantastic exhibit of Kishio Suga’s work on paper at Blum and Poe in Culver City. This show was the most comprehensive survey of his work in this medium. (It could be a little cruel to write about this exhibit after-the-fact as it came down on February 26. I confess I was distracted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Me bad.) I found his work attractive by the rectangular fields of color, shapes and materials so I still wanted to share it with you.

Rarely do I show work in progress but I’m currently working on the below painting. I think this is the first 30” x 30” cradle board of a triptych. For some reason, the gray, ashy surface is reminding me of the rubble of buildings in Ukraine. For the final painting, come back in a month or two.

Noteworthy Reception

A number of artists are gathering for a Relief Benefit Exhibition at Keystone Gallery from April 9 through April 17. The reception is April 9 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at 338 S. Ave 16, Los Angeles.

Check this out...

A couple of weeks ago, I purchased this book, Disrupted Realism, Paintings for a Distracted World, by John Seed. I couldn’t put it down and have recommended it to three friends. And what grabbed me was this one paragraph in the foreward by Katherine Stanek.

“Handheld devices alter our attention span and redefine our visual experience. There is so much pictorial competition, we believe we must scroll through multiple images incessantly just to sustain what we perceive is required to remain connected to our world. The eye doesn’t have time to settle and the brain doesn’t have time to process what the eye has just seen before we are on to the next image.”

I think this book is particularly profound as we’re all on some social media platform and for the past two years, most of us have stayed close to home and perused art digitally.

I love how this book is organized by common themes and the images are beautiful. The interview questions are the same for each artist and provides a good insight into the artist and art. It can be purchased on Amazon.

Right now, I’m prepping for a group show at my friend’s renovated barn. It’s looking nice and I hope you can join us for the reception. As it starts to take shape, here is a sneak peak of the “barn”. One of the fun features is his barn is located across the street from Clos Solène which produces yummy wines. Do I hear a wine tasting after perusing some art?

  • Reception dates: Saturday, March 5 and Sunday, March 6 from 1-4pm. I’ll be there around 2pm

  • Exhibition dates: March 5-19, 2022 by appointment only if you’re unable to attend the reception

  • Location: 2021 Niderer Rd., Paso Robles, CA

  • Contact info: 626-393-1750 (Larry’s mobile)

Musings of an artist and mark your calendar...

This blog post is loaded with noteworthy artist info. Enjoy.

First, My Shameless Plug

  • I have a work of art, Untitled #2 (blue), in the upcoming group exhibition at San Luis Obispo Museum of Art (SLOMA). The reception is Friday, February 4, 2022 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm and I will be at the reception around 6:00pm so I hope to see you. The museum is located at 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo and the exhibit is up until March 27, 2022. My painting was created in 2019 from a lovely, peaceful summer evening in my own backyard.

  • I have five paintings, all 16” x 16”, in an upcoming group exhibition with five other artists. Fun fact: Like so many people during 2020 with the pandemic in full swing, the host of this exhibit and participating artist, Larry Stone, renovated his garage/barn into a beautiful gallery to showcase other like-minded artists. The receptions for this exhibition, Acts of Worship, are Saturday, March 5 and Sunday, March 6, 2022 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm and I will most likely be attending both days around 2:00 pm. If you are unable to attend and would like to see the exhibition, please contact Larry at actsofworshipart@gmail.com to schedule an appointment. The gallery is located at 2021 Niderer Road, Paso Robles.

  • I have a few art workshops scheduled at Art Center Morro Bay over the next few months. Please note, a minimum of eight participants is required with a maximum of 15 participants. Sadly, we had to cancel two of the workshops previously scheduled due to the Omicron variant. Damn pesky pandemic.

Plugs for Other Artists

  • Run, don’t walk. And if you’re speeding in a car, don’t blame me if you get a ticket. There’s an exquisite, breathtaking exhibit of Hilary Brace’s charcoal drawings at Craig Krull Gallery at Bergamot Station in Santa Monica. This exhibit is up until February 19, 2022. Initially, I thought I was looking at black and white photos and then I saw these magical, imaginative cloud formations. I almost cried at the beauty and with charcoal!

  • Tic, tic, tic. If you’re lucky to be in NYC, then check out the haunting, realistic paintings of Hannah Lee at Entrance, located at 48 Ludlow St., Manhattan through January 30. I was an armchair visitor by reading the article in Hyperallergic.

  • If you are uncomfortable with receptions, travel and yet need an art-fix, then enjoy this virtual tour of the Los Angeles Art Show that happened on January 19-23, 2022 at the Convention Center.

Studio Visits

I think one of the biggest joys is visiting an artist’s studio and a few days ago, I visited Eric Dubnicka’s studio. His work is raw, personal, authentic, tactile, expressive and more. He is actually working in one studio while renovating a run-down horse stable into another studio. The horse stable is amazing, complete with an old drawing of a horse by the previous owner pinned to the barn door. Eric has a super vision of keeping the integrity of the space. It’s also fun to see new art supplies laying around. I might have to try this Gaffrey texture material.

Wrapping Up 2021

This is a sweet way to wrap up the year. I’m pleased to share with you that I have a piece, Untitled #4 (black), in the Los Angeles Art Association Open Show 2021 exhibition. This highly competitive, juried exhibition was open to emerging artists across the United States. The juror for this exhibition was the renowned art critic Peter Frank. My abstract painting represents the view from the studio window on a dark, rainy day. Here are more details:

Open Show 2021 reception at Gallery 825
Saturday, December 11, 2021
Hours of the reception are 10am to 5pm
(I should be at the gallery around 10-ish.)
Exhibition is up from December 11, 2021 to January 7, 2022.
Gallery 825 is located at 825 N. La Cienega, West Hollywood, and will also be open by appointment for in-person viewing.

With the holidays in full swing with Santa Claus parades and parties, it’s a great time to support the arts with either donations, purchase of a hand-crafted art gift or your favorite art-oriented charity. This year, I purchased fun sets of colorful pens for children age 4+ for Toys for Tots drive. I’m always concerned about budget cuts in the arts education so this seems like a good way to stimulate the creative interest.

Art Workshops are scheduled for 2022, including creative sketchbook workshop, collage and encaustic. Let me know if you’re interested. Also, I have already lined up a group exhibition for February. More information coming soon.

Thank you for your ongoing support, friendship and partnership. I couldn’t do this without you.

A Look at Titles and more ...

“Yes, the title does matter,” said American sculptor Lynda Benglis and “I don’t title anything,” said the American photographer Helen Levitt.

When viewing art, do you read the title? Does it matter to you? If the work is untitled, do you engage differently with the work? I’d like to hear your thoughts and I’m pretty certain the comment box below is working. Thank you.

I can see why a photographer doesn’t title her images. A picture is worth a thousand words. Conversely, the work of Lynda Benglis is largely abstract and minimal, so a title may suggest an interpretation for the viewer.

Most of my new work is untitled as I want the viewer to have their own interpretation. A few days ago, this conversation came up with two other artists as three of my new pieces are painted slightly different than the untitled work and titled. One comment was “Unless there is a reason to obscure, own your subject matter or inspiration.” The other comment was equally spot on about documenting what I see or what’s going on in my life. For example, Untitled #1 (grey) is my obscured view of driving eastbound on Highway 46 by the fog. I wanted to pull over to take a picture of the trees and that would not have been a smart move with semi-trucks sharing the highway with me.

Net takeaway: I’m on the fence with this one. Some work was published so I don’t think I can change the title.

Brand Library & Art Center is proud to present A Century of California Women Artists celebrating 100 years of Women Painters West, featuring 100 new contemporary works by current members inspired by past member artists.

For this specific Women Painters West exhibit, I selected artist Hazel Coldwell Clark Pletsch and her work was titled “Sketchin”. In this painting, she portrayed two artists sketching in the hills near her Altadena home. As an abstract artist, I concentrated on one area of her painting – the ground on which their chairs were placed. I imagined the dry leaves crumbling beneath their feet.

Please join us for the opening reception on Saturday, November 13, 2021 from 6 - 9pm. This exhibit is up starting Saturday November 13, 2021 through January 8, 2022. Brand Library is located at 1601 W. Mountain St., Glendale, CA 91201.

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