Pitti Palace and the Lion Fountain

Easter Sunday in Italy

"Courtyard Garden," oil, approx. 8"h x 6"w, copyright Jill Banks 2014

Since the group’s rendezvous time was set for 12:45 in the lobby – breakfast was leisurely and I was able to get a painting of the hotel courtyard in before heading off for the Pitti Palace.

Even in this contained scene, the view in front of me changed – considerably – between contemplation/sketch to the moment of setting up to paint. So much so that my choice of subject moved right … to catch the sun’s patterns.

Although this morning’s efforts were done quickly, I’m happy with the results.

The Pitti Palace
This was Randy and my second visit to the Pitti Palace under the tutelage of Rob Liberace on his art historical trips.  What an amazing collection that improves with my age. The museum is divided into two parts -- the Gallery of Modern Art and the Palatino. Both are terrific ... and really different from one another.  

I found the greatest inspiration from the Gallery of Modern Art -- loving the portraits, the complex and interesting work by Antonio Mancini, and seeing Florence through more recent artists' eyes. My personal favorite piece was by Giorgio Belloni (1861-1945): "Stutilo" painted in 1941. (There were LOTS of runners up and a case full of small painting gems -- not to be missed.) I can't find a photo of that painting -- so again I pass the research onto you.

But here are two fantastic paintings from the collection whose photos I could find:

 John Singer Sargent: Ritratto di Ambrogio Raffaele, c. 1911, Olio su tela, cm 56 x 70, Firenze, Galleria d'Arte Moderna di Palazzo Pitti

Antonio Ciseri
Ecce Homo - Pilate presenting a scourged Jesus to the people of Jerusalem
1871, photo from the Gallery of Modern Art web site

 Antonio Ciseri's "Ecce Homo" was a show-stopper, with every inch of this huge canvas well-considered and painted. Phenomenal.

As the museum shut down, I still wanted to paint. Boboli Gardens were closed, but right outside the Pitti Palace is a fountain of a lion that attracts an awful lot of attention. So that was my subject until the light faded away.

"Fontana Del Leone," oil, 16"h x 12"w, copyright Jill Banks 2014

Ciao! Thanks for reading!

Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)

 

April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."

May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.

May 27-May 31: Mountain Maryland Plein Air I join 29 other artists juried from around the country to capture Cumberland MD and surrounding areas in this plein air competition and exhibition. Second time around.

May 31 & June 1: Great Falls Studios Spring Outdoor Art Festival  Two days with my work under a tent in the Great Falls Village Centre, corner of Georgetown Pike and Walker Road,  Great Falls, VA. Husband Randy will hold down “the Fort” on Saturday while I finish up at Mountain Maryland and then I hope to see you on Sunday, June 1!
 
March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html
 

Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

Trip To Assisi

Assisi, photograph copyright Jill Banks 2014

Saturday we traveled to Assisi, Italy … a long, scenic bus trip from Florence. The forecast called for rain and there were sprinklings on and off en route and as we arrived.

After several posts about this trip to Florence, one message sent to me related that I “may just be stuck in Paradise.”  Could be true …  Paradise does include though sore feet (because there is so much to be seen), sore shoulders (because art supplies, cameras to capture Paradise must be carried to the destination) and an occasional need for an umbrella (because this grass had to get green somehow).

Assisi is beautiful, clean, stunning with unusual architecture, great shops (as seen from the doorway), incredible vistas at every turn, fountains, flowers, churches, an ornate carousel, celebratory atmosphere.

We saw frescos by Giotto at the Basilica di San Francesco … a visual narrative of the life of St. Francis. My only art-making on Saturday was a fairly quick sketch of a sculpture of St. Francis in the nave of the church.

Suddenly it was after 2pm with a bus departure of 3 – and a long uphill climb to get to the front gates. I don’t remember ever walking up a steep hill while consuming a sandwich before. It brings new meaning to “to go.”

Student to Teacher
As a traveler with the group as an attendee, I keep thinking about my own painting workshop in Italy ahead. (Nice thought. When I say “arrivederci” to this trip, the next beckons shortly.)

Each fellow traveler has their own agenda, own hopes, energy level. Some try to fill every moment – take advantage of every opportunity. Others follow the beat of their own drum … bowing out of a day’s activity if it doesn’t suit or some other  destination’s call is stronger. 

Taking care of all those wishes reminds me … though distantly … of my parents’ entertaining during family reunions … chatting with the early risers and being there, too, with the night owls.

I’ll set some friendly boundaries … giving it my all  for a large bit of the day with some leftover to rejuvenate for the next. At least, that’s the plan for now.

What I do know is that this country awaits a great adventure that I am so looking forward to co-leading (with Mary Beth Gaiarin as host, me as instructor). I’m  getting my Italian painting muscles in awfully great shape.

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)

March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html
 
April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."

May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.

May 27-May 31: Mountain Maryland Plein Air I join 29 other artists juried from 
around the country to capture Cumberland MD and surrounding areas in this plein air competition and exhibition. Second time around.

May 31 & June 1: Fairfax Great Falls Studios Spring Outdoor Art Festival  Two days with my work under a tent in the Great Falls Village Centre, corner of Georgetown Pike and Walker Road,  Great Falls, VA. Husband Randy will hold down “the Fort” on Saturday while I finish up at Mountain Maryland and then I hope to see you on Sunday, June !!
 
Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

Museo Pietro Annigoni in Villa Bardini, Florence

Close-up of "Rossella Segreto" by Pietro Annigoni, lithographia

Friday was extraordinary. Hope you’re not tired of my saying that.

I’ve found that the further you climb and pant uphill – the better the reward. Friday proved it as we bravely made the, maybe 60-degree, ascent straight to the clouds it seemed with the planned destination of Museo Pietro Annigoni in the Villa Bardini.  What a place.

We were there to see the Annigoni’s.  Pietro Annigoni is a favorite son of Florence. He’s not very well known outside these city limits– but he taught/influenced a ton of artists and sprouted a major resurgence of painting Ateliers, including the Florence Academy of Art and Angel Academy (also in Florence).

At one time he taught Nelson Shanks who founded Studio Incamminati in Philadelphia.  I can see glimpses of that influence.

I’m into stating favorites lately. This day it was clearly Annigoni’s “Rossella Segreto” – what looks like a charcoal drawing and is labeled “litografia.” Probably the same thing?

What I love about it – beyond EVERYTHING – is the refined nature of her face and fluidity, painterly style defining her hair. How gorgeous, powerful is that?

I know this will be a source of inspiration for works to come.  So often I paint when happening upon a live model – as in McLean’s  Saturday open life. This drawing will make me reach for a different material to try my hand some day soon.

After touring the museum, we headed to the gardens that had been winking at us from terraces and windows each floor up. The gardens are filled with pathways, sculptures, waterways that show off another form of artistry … all with the backdrop of this beautiful city.

An arbor covered with wisteria in full bloom was the “Kodak Moment” spot. Except, my camera battery was blinking empty … and my camera card was full … and the back-up camera card was snugly tucked away in the hotel room.

There’s a restaurant there – where we had a great plate of salad, charcuterie, cheeses on a loggia with our friends overlooking this ridiculously beautiful scene.

View from Villa Bardini, Florence. Copyright Jill Banks 2014

Each outing provides inspiration to discover more.   This is a place begging for a return visit.

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)

March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html
 
April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."
May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.
May 27-May 31: Mountain Maryland Plein Air I join 29 other artists juried from around the country to capture Cumberland MD and surrounding areas in this plein air competition and exhibition. Second time around.
May 31 & June 1: Fairfax Great Falls Studios Spring Outdoor Art Festival  Two days with my work under a tent in the Great Falls Village Centre, corner of Georgetown Pike and Walker Road,  Great Falls, VA. Husband Randy will hold down “the Fort” on Saturday while I finish up at Mountain Maryland and then I hope to see you on Sunday, June !!
 
Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

Day In San Gimignano

Set Up at My Easel in San Gimignano, Italy

On Thursday, early, we headed off to San Gimignano, Italy – via bus from Florence. The idea of a bus navigating those cobblestoned, narrow, people, scooter and motorcycle-filled streets is daunting. How the heck do they do it?

Randy and I have been off on an art tour led by Rob Liberace – and today is sort of a break from museums, art history, facts – to enjoy the glorious countryside of Tuscany.

I’ve never been to San Gimignano – though the landscapes of former studiomate Michela Mansuino made them familiar prior to this visit. She’d spent many summers painting the scenes right outside her mom’s villa there.

I chose to bring my paints – painting vs. shopping. A cost-saving measure, for sure – as all the shops and market held wonderful wares.  Picked a spot that was quiet and contained – though after finishing my first oil, I thought the scene might have been anywhere. (Except wisteria is beautiful here in Italy -- thriving for some reason everywhere we look.) There will be more works created from our one-day visit – of the scenes (including the markets, flower displays, cafes) I’d love to paint that didn’t afford room for my easel. So, more to come in the weeks and months to follow.

"Italian Garden," oil, approx. 11"h x 7"w, copyright Jill Banks 2014

Late afternoon was spent in Monteriggioni, an extremely small walled village. No paints this time – nor drawing supplies – but I do, fortunately, have better-equipped friends. We drew, purchasing a glass of wine to secure a seat (and rights to a rare restroom) while the wind blew and we froze our fingers off.  Well, not quite – but conditions weren’t quite ideal.  Thanks, Terry O’Day and Susan O’Neill for micron pens and red pencils and sharing in the freezing fun.

For this trip, I have managed to neaten up/condense my oil painting gear. It travels with a small, carry-on size rolling suitcase with the zipper done to expand it. Only one piece sticks out the top and that is an umbrella and the compact panel carrier that goes with my new Art Box and Panel (Coulter Painting System). It's pretty nifty -- and received compliments the whole trip ... including from a visitor interested in my painting from yesterday's post. The big challenge here is that there is not a smooth rolling surface to be found. Lots of cobblestones, bumps in the road.

And thanks to YOU for reading!

Happy Easter!

Jill
 
Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)


April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."

May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.

May 27-May 31: Mountain Maryland Plein Air I join 29 other artists juried from around the country to capture Cumberland MD and surrounding areas in this plein air competition and exhibition. Second time around.

May 31 & June 1: Fairfax Great Falls Studios Spring Outdoor Art Festival  Two days with my work under a tent in the Great Falls Village Centre, corner of Georgetown Pike and Walker Road,  Great Falls, VA. Husband Randy will hold down “the Fort” on Saturday while I finish up at Mountain Maryland and then I hope to see you on Sunday, June 1!

March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html
 
 
Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

Medici View, Vasari Corridor, Painting Outside the St. Regis

"Florentine Square," oil, 12"h x 16"w, copyright Jill Banks 2014

(Written two days ago -- but postponed by Internet troubles. It is almost impossible to post but I'll keep trying.)

Today was such a Florentine day.  It could not possibly have been more perfect. Okay, perhaps with some more time spent in the Uffizi.

While a trip down the Vasari Corridor, through the passage above the Ponte Vecchio attaching the Uffizi (once the offices of the Medici family) to the Pitti Palace across the Arno -- was supposed to begin first thing this morning -- instead we had to enjoy some time (short) pre-tour in the museum.  That meant a short tour of Anders Zorn etchings, Da Vincis, Michelangelos and Botticellis.

Then it was onto the Vasari Corridor -- probably my favorite art viewing experience of all time. Lining the hallway crossing the Arno from the Uffizi to the Pitti Palace (above the Ponte Vecchio) are self portraits by artists from the Renaissance to the almost present, starting with Vasari and passing through all sorts of favorite folks.

Top favorite went to a self portrait by Therese Schwartze, a Dutch artist (1851-1918) who looks out at us, shielding her eyes with her hand from the light, holding a monster-sized palette and a fistful of brushes. The woman could paint.  And, I’ve never heard of her before.  Hmmm. At the age of 36, she was summoned to submit work for the Uffizi.

There is something tremendously powerful about seeing these works – 127 self portraits by Italian and foreign artists, well known and unknown, on display. You see them --- the way they intended, painted in the style and psyche lone to that particular artist.

One artist, Nicola Van Houbroken (1663-1723) painted a wreath of beautiful flowers that fit the dimensions of the canvas. In the center, he appeared to break through the canvas to join the rest of the portrait subjects.

“Afternoon in Fiesole” by Baccio Maria Bacci intrigued me. It was full of the interesting relationships and stories I love to paint. You could stare at that painting forever and it would remain always fresh.

There were more to look up, new faces to get to know. If I had an Internet to rely upon – you’d have links to follow, photos to look at. Hopefully, I’ll be able to flesh it out when I get home. Enjoy doing your own homework in the meantime.

"Florentine Square" was painted that afternoon. After lunch instead of going straight to the Boboli Gardens, Randy and I returned to our hotel via the bus. It deposited us in this square that provided the perfect place to paint. Plenty of room to set up my easel with grand views across the Arno, bathed in Florentine light.  I was right outside the St. Regis hotel, wearing my now not-too-pristine but only days’ old artist’s smock from Zecchi’s. Great day!

Ciao for now! It's off to see some Pietro Annigonis.

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
 
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)

March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html
 
April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."
May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.
May 27-May 31: Mountain Maryland Plein Air I join 29 other artists juried from around the country to capture Cumberland MD and surrounding areas in this plein air competition and exhibition. Second time around.
May 31 & June 1: Fairfax Great Falls Studios Spring Outdoor Art Festival  Two days with my work under a tent in the Great Falls Village Centre, corner of Georgetown Pike and Walker Road,  Great Falls, VA. Husband Randy will hold down “the Fort” on Saturday while I finish up at Mountain Maryland and then I hope to see you on Sunday, June !!
 
Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

 (Written two days ago -- but postponed by Internet troubles. It is almost impossible to post but I'll keep trying.)

Today was such a Florentine day.  It could not possibly have been more perfect. Okay, perhaps with some more time spent in the Uffizi.

While a trip down the Vasari Corridor, through the passage above the Ponte Vecchio attaching the Uffizi (once the offices of the Medici family) to the Pitti Palace across the Arno -- was supposed to begin first thing this morning -- instead we had to enjoy some time (short) pre-tour in the museum.  That meant a short tour of Anders Zorn etchings, Da Vincis, Michelangelos and Botticellis.

Then it was onto the Vasari Corridor -- probably my favorite art viewing experience of all time. Lining the hallway crossing the Arno from the Uffizi to the Pitti Palace (above the Ponte Vecchio) are self portraits by artists from the Renaissance to the almost present, starting with Vasari and passing through all sorts of favorite folks.

I'll write more ... and post/edit when I can. "Florentine Square" was painted that afternoon. I may return to it today for finishing touches.

Ciao for now! It's off to see some Pietro Aningonis.

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)

March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html
 
March 28 - April 18: Women Painters of the Southeast Third Annual Juried Members Exhibition  "Ballerinas I" was juried into this beautiful exhibit at Magnolia Gallery in Greensboro, GA. See my web site's Events page for more info.
 
April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."
 
May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.
 
Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

Italy!

"Florentine Kiosk," oil, approx. 11"h x 8"w, copyright Jill Banks 2014

As gorgeous and inspiring as it is here, I forget that you can take a nap while your internet connection is thinking about its next move ... and the commute/time zone change makes you long for that zzzzz-zone.

Now is day two (and a half) in Florence.  Day #half we arrived, ate dinner, crashed. Yesterday I painted in two parks along the Arno, across the river from the Duomo and Uffizi ... creating a curious sight perhaps but granted a warm welcome and murmurs of "Bella!" for my oil sketches. I was looking forward to painting but also attempting to avoid the massive crowds that fill Florence. A park -- not quite on the main drag seemed safe. It was ... and it truly was a glorious day. I feel often like a cross between a fly on the wall and an entertainer as an artist. I'm an observer - entering other people's worlds without the small, unobtrusive stature of an insect.  But, that's actually a good thing -- since the reactions of those who engage with me ... even in a foreign language and place are so great. One of my visitors, I figure, is related to some master artist ... and he deemed my kiosk, above, a success. Complete language barrier. I hope that's what he said.

Full days lead to questionable photos. Of yesterday's two paintings -- I only have a fairly decent photo of one.  It was painted on one side of a 12"h x 16"w canvas with space in the middle ... like I used in Paris last year.  Like then, one suitcase is filled with art supplies, another with clothes. Priorities.

"Florentine Dolphin" mixed media from Florence visit past, copyright Jill Banks 2008

Last night we were joined by great friends from previous journeys, and some new friends in the making. Yesterday was dining and meeting and a little time beforehand at the Duomo Museum to see Ghiberti's doors and one of Michelangelo's Pietas. (Astounding works.)

Today it was on to the Bargello this morning, and Accademia this afternoon. My third time drawing the David was not the charm ... but being there was. Lots for us ahead.  I will do my best to fill you in on the adventure ... despite the sluggish Internet, so much calling out & about ... and the need to nap. "Florentine Dolphin" is a drawing from a previous trip to this magical place ... and the the fountain on which this dolphin presides was seen today. Cool.

Mountain Maryland Plein Air
Just found out that I was selected as one of the 30 artists juried to paint our way through Cumberland MD and vicinity for the Mountain Maryland Plein Air 2014 adventure. So there you'll find me at the end of May. It will be added to my calendar of events on the web site sometime soon.

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)

March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html
March 28 - April 18: Women Painters of the Southeast Third Annual Juried Members Exhibition  "Ballerinas I" was juried into this beautiful exhibit at Magnolia Gallery in Greensboro, GA. See my web site's Events page for more info.
April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."
May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.
 
Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

Fishing, a Rabbit, and Braking for Antiques: Painting Spring Plein Air!

Today's Painting: "White Rabbit," oil, 10"h x 8"w, ©Jill Banks 2014

Presumably my Vitamin D level must be rising ... with a lot of days and hours spent outside at my easel.  My plein air class starts on Wednesday, and I'm doing my darnedest to get rid of my outside painting rustiness.  Nothing replaces practice.

(And about that plein air class -- I'm trying to figure out great painting locations in or near Great Falls, VA. Have suggestions? Please email me.  Needs: a restroom, parking room for 13 cars, variety of subjects (outbuilding, garden, animals?, fence, etc.)

Thus, there are three new paintings to show you today!

In addition to getting ready for class, I'm also preparing for an upcoming painting trip and was inspired by a recent article in Plein Air Magazine.  An artist was ill-prepared for an upcoming, scheduled solo exhibit with nothing to hang. (Okay, I'm not going to have that problem.) His solution was to embark on a two-week road trip, two weeks before the show was to hang, painting his way to the gallery. He produced two pieces a day, knowing he had to make them work.  Sounds intriguing. Why not pick a different location each day and see what adventures unfold? 

Painted Earlier This Week: "Gone Fishing," oil, 8"h x 10"w, ©Jill Banks 2014

In a little over a week, I've painted in Augusta, GA ("Augusta Georgia Fountain"), Kidwell Farm in Herndon, VA ("King of the Roost") capturing in paint the coop escapee, Lake Fairfax in Reston, VA ("Gone Fishing" shown here), " Old Town Alexandria, VA ("Two Boats" and "Riverside"), in an antique store parking lot on the way to Frederick, MD for the reception at the Delaplaine Art Center yesterday ("Antiques" shown here) and right in my driveway this afternoon ("White Rabbit").

It's truly been a WHOLE lot of fun. I've enjoyed the rhythms of each place, talking to passersby.

Yesterday's Painting: "Antiques," oil, 10"h x 8"w, ©Jill Banks 2014

LOVE the reaction of kids.

The three shown here are all on the small side: 8" x 10" -- giving me some affordable pieces ($630 framed) to hang under my tent at the May 3 & 4 Fairfax Fine Art Festival in Fairfax Corners, Fairfax, VA. Assuming none of them hop to new homes before then.

I still intend to get out an email newsletter. If you aren't subscribed -- I hope you will. Just go to my website and click on newsletter. It should be coming out sometime tomorrow. 

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)

March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html
March 28 - April 18: Women Painters of the Southeast Third Annual Juried Members Exhibition  "Ballerinas I" was juried into this beautiful exhibit at Magnolia Gallery in Greensboro, GA. See my web site's Events page for more info.
April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."
May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.
 
Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

Time By the Water

"Riverside," oil, 12"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2014

The last two days I've been painting en plein air -- by the water. I've yet to get a decent photo of yesterday's piece capturing a fisherman named Billy at Lake Fairfax in Reston VA. So ... coming soon.

"Two Boats," oil, 10"h x 8"w, ©Jill Banks 2014

This afternoon was spent happily capture boats riverside in Old Town Alexandria. Plenty of company visited with me both days. Great reactions despite the often rocky progression of these pieces.

For the first, "Two Boats" -- miraculously, I kept it simple. Certainly not my normal inclination.

The second, "Riverside" shows I can't keep it simple for very long.  Still, it captures the beautiful day, beautiful spot.

Tomorrow (Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm) is the the opening reception for the Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia exhibit at the Delaplaine Arts Center in Frederick, MD. I'm looking forward to the trip, the opening and enjoying a nice evening in this great town. I hope to see you there. If you miss the opening, the show continues through April 28. Get more info on my web site's event page.

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)

March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html

March 28 - April 18: Women Painters of the Southeast Third Annual Juried Members Exhibition  "Ballerinas I" was juried into this beautiful exhibit at Magnolia Gallery in Greensboro, GA. See my web site's Events page for more info.

April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."

May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.
 
Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

"Augusta GA Fountain"

"Augusta, Georgia Fountain," oil, 12"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2014

Really quick. I painted between WPSE (Women Painters of the Southeast) receptions this past weekend in Augusta, GA. How great it was to see and feel Spring!!!!

This was right before the town filled with Masters enthusiasts. My easel was set up under a cherry tree bursting with blossoms. 

A little tough to then drive right back into winter-ish weather. One afternoon and nine hours in the car later and there were snow flurries and ugly weather. Yikes!

I still hope to get around to posting beaucoup photos from the WPSE exhibit. Life tends to overflow with plenty to share ... making it tough for me to keep up.

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jillbanks1@aol.com
Web: www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel (This link takes you to the subscription page.)

March 5 - December: Richeson75 Still Life and Floral 2014  Two of my paintings: "Honey Bunny" and "Garden Girl" were chosen as finalists in this online competition and exhibition. 75 total works were selected for this exhibition from entries/artists worldwide. See the exhibit at http://richeson75.com/stilllife/index.html

March 28 - April 18: Women Painters of the Southeast Third Annual Juried Members Exhibition  "Ballerinas I" was juried into this beautiful exhibit at Magnolia Gallery in Greensboro, GA. See my web site's Events page for more info.

April 5 - April 27: Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia at Delaplaine, Frederick, MD  Reception on Saturday, April 5, 3 to 5pm at the Delaplaine Art Center, 40 Carroll Street, Frederick, MD. On exhibit: "Main Street USA," "Tony" and "Ice Cold Lemonade."

May 3 & 4: Fairfax Fine Art Festival  I'll be under a tent in Fairfax Corners ... surrounded by artwork. Come visit/shop for original art. More details to come on my web site's Events page.
 
Paint with Me in Italy: August 3 to 10, 2014. For more info, itinerary and links to register, see the classes page on my web site. Great folks are signing up to join me on this wonderful adventure. I hope you can, too!

See Current  and Upcoming Exhibits/Events