Wednesday, August 16, 2017

Night in the Piazza and More to Come...


"Night Owls," oil, 12"h x 24"w, ©2017 Jill Banks
In my last post, I mentioned soon leaving my home away from home in Italy and heading off to paint a nocturne.  "Night Owls" is what followed.

Many paintings were started ... and almost completed en plein air during our week stay in Lucca. You'll see them relatively soon on my blog (here) and email newsletter.  The week in Lucca was followed by another weeklong stay in Bologna with a trip to the beach at Viareggio in between. There are so many fun and touching stories to relate ahead but at the moment I'm sitting on the plane ready to return back home. Lots to look forward to!!!!

Arrivederci, Italia! Grazie!

September Featured Artist of the Month at Ellis-Nicholson Gallery in Charleston, SC

Come to the First Friday Art Walk there on September 1. More pieces will be added to the ones that have recently arrived in the Gallery and I'll be there on First Friday to meet you! 

Really looking forward to being in the gallery, meeting you and introducing my work in this new venue.

View the paintings that will be part of my "Close Encounters" exhibit at Ellis-Nicholson in Charleston, SC this September online here.

Upcoming Events


Shadyside: The Art Festival on Walnut Street, Pittsburgh PA, August 26-27
 
"Close Encounters" Featured Artist of the Month, First Friday Art Walk -- Charleston SC at the Ellis-Nicholson Gallery, September 1
 
Long Beach Island Plein Air Plus, Long Beach Island NJ, July 1-August 31 - Exhibit September 8-October 31
 
Gracie Square Art Show, Carl Schurz Park, NYC, September 9-10

Alexandria King Street Art Festival, Alexandria VA, September 16-17
 
Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk NY, September 23-24
 
MPA McLean Artfest, McLean VA, October 1
  
Sedona Plein Air Festival, Sedona AZ, October 14-21
 
Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Great Falls VA (Artists' Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls -- I'll be there Sunday only.) October 20-22
 
Fall Classes and Workshop ... Register Now
Still Life Plus (Personal Projects Also) starts September 12.
Evening Paint starts Tuesday, September 12.
Painting the Portrait -- Three-Day Workshop -- October 27-29, 2017.
Class size is limited. The class and workshop are taught through the Arts of Great Falls School at 756-C Walker Road, Great Falls VA.
Get more info on my Classes page.  
I was chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com. (Pretty cool endorsement.)
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes

Read the Article: Southwest Art Artist to Watch,  July 2017
Here's a link to the PDF of the wonderful Artist to Watch article written by Kim Agricola.
 
Paint Great Falls 2017 - September 6-9 - CALL FOR ARTISTS
Artists are invited to participate in this third annual event to paint plein air anywhere in Great Falls VA from September 6-9, 2017. Generous awards. Open to the first 40 registrants -- non-juried. I was the competition judge last year -- and it was tough to pick the winners from the fine work that sprang to life in the span of a few short days. Get more info at: www.greatfallsart.org/paint-great-falls/

Thanks for reading!

Jill Banks


Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
 
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)

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Sunday, August 6, 2017

Home Away From Home in Italy

"L'Appartamento," oil, 10"h x 8"w, ©2017 Jill Banks
This is home away from home in Italy. It's getting close to the time to say goodbye and I'm sure that mustering turning in the keys is going to be difficult.  This is the second of two interiors created during the heat of the day. ("La Cucina Due" is the first.) In a few moments, I'll head out for dinner and a nocturne painting session.

"La Cucina Due," oil, 10"h x 8"w, ©2017 Jill Banks
Sometimes it's good to not know how to speak Italian.  We've been watering the geraniums on the balcony each day and cars/people do pass underneath. There's a good chance that the words spoken by a driver directed at me overhead were not complimentary.  So, what am I supposed to do?

The owner of our apartment in Italy trained as a set designer. Her artistry is everywhere in this place. I love it. I love it. I love it.

There. I've hidden my feelings well.

Painting out on the streets in all these different places makes you appear like a native ... to the tourists.  I am often asked directions and whereabouts. Today it was to the antiteatro Romano ... a place I know.  Despite a deficiency in my sense of direction, I sent the family to the right general location. Surprise, surprise.

September Featured Artist of the Month at Ellis-Nicholson Gallery in Charleston, SC

Come to the First Friday Art Walk there on September 1. More pieces will be added to the ones that have recently arrived in the Gallery and I'll be there on First Friday to meet you! 

Really looking forward to being in the gallery, meeting you and introducing my work in this new venue.

More info to come but my tentative title for this collection/show is "Close Encounters." Hope I encounter YOU!

Upcoming Events


Shadyside: The Art Festival on Walnut Street, Pittsburgh PA, August 26-27
"Close Encounters" Featured Artist of the Month, First Friday Art Walk -- Charleston SC at the Ellis-Nicholson Gallery, September 1
Long Beach Island Plein Air Plus, Long Beach Island NJ, July 1-August 31 - Exhibit September 8-October 31
Gracie Square Art Show, Carl Schurz Park, NYC, September 9-10

Alexandria King Street Art Festival, Alexandria VA, September 16-17
Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk NY, September 23-24
MPA McLean Artfest, McLean VA, October 1
 Sedona Plein Air Festival, Sedona AZ, October 14-21
Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Great Falls VA (Artists' Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls -- I'll be there Sunday only.) October 20-22
Fall Classes and Workshop ... Register Now
Still Life Plus (Personal Projects Also) starts September 12.
Evening Paint starts Tuesday, September 12.
Painting the Portrait -- Three-Day Workshop -- October 27-29, 2017.
Class size is limited. The class and workshop are taught through the Arts of Great Falls School at 756-C Walker Road, Great Falls VA.
Get more info on my Classes page.  
I was chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com. (Pretty cool endorsement.)
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes

Read the Article: Southwest Art Artist to Watch,  July 2017
Here's a link to the PDF of the wonderful Artist to Watch article written by Kim Agricola.
Paint Great Falls 2017 - September 6-9 - CALL FOR ARTISTS
Artists are invited to participate in this third annual event to paint plein air anywhere in Great Falls VA from September 6-9, 2017. Generous awards. Open to the first 40 registrants -- non-juried. I was the competition judge last year -- and it was tough to pick the winners from the fine work that sprang to life in the span of a few short days. Get more info at: www.greatfallsart.org/paint-great-falls/

Thanks for reading!


Jill Banks


Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)
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Friday, August 4, 2017

Days in Italy

"Slow Lane," oil, 24"h x 12"w, ©2017 Jill Banks
Quick-ish blog post as these Summer days provide plenty to do and enjoy. We've escaped for awhile to Italy although getting here provided a few hurdles. Like four extra hours on the runway. A good bit waiting for baggage. Two hours waiting for a rental car. Et cetera.

This is ... like all times ... a painting trip.  It's hot here in the Tuscan town of Lucca. The good news is that there is ample shade if I choose my subjects and setting wisely. Many paintings are underway yet not finished.  "Slow Lane" is one that is ready to show.  This is the view from our balcony.  More to come ... on an easy schedule.

September Featured Artist of the Month at Ellis-Nicholson Gallery in Charleston, SC

Come to the First Friday Art Walk there on September 1. More pieces will be added to the ones that have recently arrived in the Gallery and I'll be there on First Friday to meet you! 

Really looking forward to being in the gallery, meeting you and introducing my work in this new venue.

More info to come but my tentative title for this collection/show is "Close Encounters." Hope I encounter YOU!

Upcoming Events

Shadyside: The Art Festival on Walnut Street, Pittsburgh PA, August 26-27

"Close Encounters" Featured Artist of the Month, First Friday Art Walk -- Charleston SC at the Ellis-Nicholson Gallery, September 1

Long Beach Island Plein Air Plus, Long Beach Island NJ, July 1-August 31 - Exhibit September 8-October 31

Gracie Square Art Show, Carl Schurz Park, NYC, September 9-10

Alexandria King Street Art Festival, Alexandria VA, September 16-17

Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk NY, September 23-24

MPA McLean Artfest, McLean VA, October 1

 Sedona Plein Air Festival, Sedona AZ, October 14-21

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Great Falls VA (Artists' Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls -- I'll be there Sunday only.) October 20-22

Fall Classes and Workshop ... Register Now
Still Life Plus (Personal Projects Also) starts September 12.
Evening Paint starts Tuesday, September 12.
Painting the Portrait -- Three-Day Workshop -- October 27-29, 2017.
Class size is limited. The class and workshop are taught through the Arts of Great Falls School at 756-C Walker Road, Great Falls VA.
Get more info on my Classes page.  
I was chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com. (Pretty cool endorsement.)
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes

Read the Article: Southwest Art Artist to Watch,  July 2017
Here's a link to the PDF of the wonderful Artist to Watch article written by Kim Agricola.

Paint Great Falls 2017 - September 6-9 - CALL FOR ARTISTS
Artists are invited to participate in this third annual event to paint plein air anywhere in Great Falls VA from September 6-9, 2017. Generous awards. Open to the first 40 registrants -- non-juried. I was the competition judge last year -- and it was tough to pick the winners from the fine work that sprang to life in the span of a few short days. Get more info at: www.greatfallsart.org/paint-great-falls/


Thanks for reading!


Jill Banks


Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)

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Thursday, July 27, 2017

"Better Days"

"Better Days," oil, 16"h x 20"w, ©2017 Jill Banks
An unusual piece for me, "Better Days" has been chosen for the Women Artists of the West Annual Exhibition which will take place in an unusual place for the group ... the McBride Gallery in Annapolis, MD (November 5-December 31).

I painted this during Richmond Plein Air and almost chose it for the two pieces that were juried for awards. Don't know exactly what stopped me from doing that.  Perhaps I know how much this painting draws me in without understanding why? The simplicity? The slope?

Comments are welcome. Or emails.

So many wonderful things have been happening recently and I'm just grateful. Sales. Appreciation. Recognition. Even a few minutes of fame.

Today I revealed a portrait. A tense event (understatement). The parents of my subject TRULY loved the painting.  That's more than a relief.  It touches my soul.

 A recent email was a reminder.  My husband Randy makes what I do possible and fun. Our brains are as dissimilar as apples and orangutans. Seriously. Since taking up painting, I no longer can multi-task. He handles inventory, shipping, packing the car, what we need, travel arrangements, taxes, deadlines, framing, booth raising, lighting, gerry-rigging, figuring out where we're eating and staying, and on and on. But, besides all those important "jobs," what Randy does is make my life full of joy. We work hard but do it together ... and then it turns into something else.  I love him SO much and could not be more thankful for him, our marriage, our life.

Fall Classes and Workshop ... Register Now
Still Life Plus (Personal Projects Also) starts September 12.
Evening Paint starts Tuesday, September 12.
Painting the Portrait -- Three-Day Workshop -- October 27-29, 2017.
Class size is limited. The class and workshop are taught through the Arts of Great Falls School at 756-C Walker Road, Great Falls VA.
Get more info on my Classes page.  
I was chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com. (Pretty cool endorsement.)
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes

Read the Article: Southwest Art Artist to Watch,  July 2017
Hopefully you'll be able to still grab the July issue of Southwest Art Magazine ... but here's a link to the PDF of the wonderful Artist to Watch article written by Kim Agricola. I've had a heck of a time finding extras after making several stops at Barnes and Noble.

Thanks for reading!


Jill Banks

Upcoming Events

Gracie Square Art Show, Carl Schurz Park, NYC, September 9-10

Alexandria King Street Art Festival, Alexandria VA, September 16-17

Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk NY, September 23-24

MPA McLean Artfest, McLean VA, October 1

Sedona Plein Air Festival, Sedona AZ, October 14-21

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Great Falls VA (Artists' Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls -- I'll be there Sunday only.) October 21-22

Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)

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Sunday, July 23, 2017

Telluride Wrap-Up and Charleston Gallery

"Dodge-y," oil, 8"h x 10"w, ©2017 Jill Banks. Available ($750)
If you are subscribed to my email newsletter (through my website at www.JillBanks.com) AND my blog, with any luck ... you'll be getting two emails within a day of each other.  Please check them both out. The email newsletter will include many pieces from the Richmond and Telluride plein air events as well as other art news.  If you aren't subscribed to the newsletter, maybe now would be a good time ...

I mentioned way back when that the following day you'd be hearing from me with the rest of my Telluride escapades and art ... but here most of it is. Better late than never?

"Cowboy in Town," oil, 12"h x 12"w, ©2017 Jill Banks. Sold.
Most of the pieces created at Telluride Plein Air have already gone to new homes. Some of them will spur on additional pieces to come... like "Cowboy in Town" -- my first painting of the event that captured local legend cowboy Roudy in action, plein air.  Roudy kept reappearing throughout my stay in Colorado -- riding a carriage right beside my red fire truck while I was painting "Center of Attention" and again at the 4th of July parade.

See more from Telluride in the Places collection  and Sold Works on my website or in that email newsletter to come.

Gallery in Charleston SC

Seven of my paintings have arrived at the Ellis-Nicholson Gallery at 1-1/2 Broad Street in Charleston South Carolina. There you'll see "Flower Power," "Stars and Stripes Street," "Venezia Market II," "The Snuggery," "Ladies' Lunch," "St. Patrick's Day," and "Painting the Pump House." If you're in the Charleston area, please visit the gallery and mention that  I sent you...

"Flower Power," oil, 30"h x 24"w, ©2017 Jill Banks -- now available through Ellis-Nicholson Gallery in Charleston SC
Fall Classes and Workshop ... Register Now
Still Life Plus (Personal Projects Also) starts September 12.
Evening Paint starts Tuesday, September 12.
Painting the Portrait -- Three-Day Workshop -- October 27-29, 2017.
Class size is limited. The class and workshop are taught through the Arts of Great Falls School at 756-C Walker Road, Great Falls VA.
Get more info on my Classes page.  
I was chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com. (Pretty cool endorsement.)
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes

Read the Article: Southwest Art Artist to Watch,  July 2017
Hopefully you'll be able to still grab the July issue of Southwest Art Magazine ... but here's a link to the PDF of the wonderful Artist to Watch article written by Kim Agricola. I've had a heck of a time finding extras after making several stops at Barnes and Noble.

See you around some town, I hope!!!! Thanks for reading!

Jill Banks

Upcoming Events

Gracie Square Art Show, Carl Schurz Park, NYC, September 9-10

Alexandria King Street Art Festival, Alexandria VA, September 16-17

Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk NY, September 23-24

MPA McLean Artfest, McLean VA, October 1

Sedona Plein Air Festival, Sedona AZ, October 14-21

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Great Falls VA (Artists' Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls -- I'll be there Sunday only.) October 21-22

Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)
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Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Telluride Plein Air ... Incredible Week

"Back in Telluride," oil, 12"h x 24"w, ©2017 Jill Banks -- Available ($2000)

Of the 13 paintings created in the days leading up to July 4 in Telluride, eight have gone to new homes. Six found new owners while in Colorado. Two were selected this past weekend in the Wickford Art Festival in  Rhode Island.

"Back in Telluride" is still available ... and it's the piece I selected as my Artists' Choice for the collectors' party.  It sort of sums up me ... and the town.  I painted it over three afternoons at the first alleyway off of Colorado Avenue.  It captures the bike repair shop and the Free Box -- a Telluride special institution.  Straight ahead is the mountain to be climbed by foot or gondola. The ubiquitous dog leads the way.

Telluride is gorgeous at every turn. In addition, there I met new friends. Reconnected with a former studio mate in town for a wedding ... plus other folks from Great Falls VA there for the same event. Stayed with gracious hosts in Mountain Village. Painted in a saloon over two afternoons.  Painted people watching the 4th of July parade. Just loved our time there.

I love the around the corner view. "Back in Telluride" is that, this trip.
Painting "Center of Attention" while standing in the middle of Colorado Avenue in Telluride.  Crazy fun while receiving plenty of encouragement from each passing car.

"Center of Attention," oil, 12"h x 24"2, ©2017 Jill Banks -- Sold

More paintings from Telluride below.  There will be a follow-up post tomorrow with the rest.

"Lunch in Telluride," oil, 12"h x 12"w, ©2017 Jill Banks -- Available ($1050) -- my quick draw painting of the gyro stand and the Sheridan Hotel's restaurant. Two varied choices with Ingram Falls in the backdrop.

Lots of art news to share and I'll do it. This is my first chance to catch up at all in an month -- with three almost back-to-back plein air events followed by an art festival. Phew.

"Parade Day," oil, 8"h x 10"w, ©2017 Jill Banks -- Sold
I will be participating in the Gracie Square Art Show in NYC in September for the first time and received news that my piece "Sun and Sea" received a third place award in the Women Artists of the West online Summer exhibit. Interesting times!

Please make sure you check out the July issue of Southwest Art in which there's a wonderful one-page article about me as an Artist to Watch. So thrilled!!

See you around some town, I hope!!!! Thanks for reading!


Jill Banks


Upcoming Events
Long Beach Island Plein Air Plus, Long Beach Island NJ, July 1-August 31

Gracie Square Art Show, Carl Schurz Park, NYC, September 9-10

Alexandria King Street Art Festival, Alexandria VA, September 16-17

Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk NY, September 23-24

MPA McLean Artfest, McLean VA, October 1

 Sedona Plein Air Festival, Sedona AZ, October 14-21

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Great Falls VA (Artists' Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls -- I'll be there Sunday only.) October 21-22

Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)

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Monday, June 26, 2017

Plein Air Richmond ... It's a Wrap!

"Orange Umbrellas," oil, 12"h x 16"w, ©2017 Jill Banks -- my Quick Draw from Saturday of the newly opened The Pit and the Peel cafe in Carytown (Richmond VA) 

Get more info about each painting on my website: www.JillBanks.com

How about I show you the week in pictures? Worth a thousand words, right?

"Night Cafe" (The Hill Cafe in Church Hill, Richmond VA), oil, 24"h x 18"w, ©2017 Jill Banks
"Twists and Turns," oil, 16"h x 12"w, ©2017 Jill Banks
"Night Cafe" was painted across the street from The Hill Cafe over many hours in the late evening on Wednesday -- and finished up, unusually, the next afternoon.  Okay, I'd say there were a LOT of things unusual about the course of this painting. In selecting a spot  for a nocturne, my first criteria is some semi-acceptable overhead light ... as in a street lamp. Nope. None. Husband Randy set up a battery lamp on a high chair to help ... but the glare was really strong and my palette remained in the total dark.  My position also put me way too close to a very pungent garbage can.  That's how much I wanted to paint "Night Cafe."  The following afternoon, I let my memory guide me as to the scene at night but fixed up all the color errors caused by my "mystery" palette.  "Night Cafe" may still be available through the Brazier Gallery until July 6. After that, check with me.

"Twists and Turns" is set in Libby Park overlooking the river.  What a great place to paint.  Over the course of the week, I witnessed a wedding, photo shoots, exercise classes, sunset watchers, dog walkers, vista viewers and plenty of my fellow painters soak in the beauty of this spot in Church Hill.

"Libby House," shown later in this post was the view across the street from "Twists and Turns."

"Better Days," oil, 16"h x 20"w, ©2017 Jill Banks

"Garden Bathers" (Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens Conservatory), oil, 16"h x 12"w, ©2017 Jill Banks

"Libby House," oil, 24"h x 12"w, ©2017 Jill Banks. Private collection. (Sold)
 Mother Nature is not always fully cooperating and with practice and ingenuity, plein air painters figure out all sort of ways to make the most of the situation.  "Church Hill Morn" -- shown at the bottom of the post -- was created over three mornings and on the last day, clouds were refusing to break for many hours.  So, I took that time to get "Better Days" going at another easel a few yards away. Once the sun broke through and shadows appeared, I could finish both paintings.

After turning in most of my paintings at the Brazier Gallery on Thursday afternoon (and catching a quick meal), I headed to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens to paint. There wasn't much time to fuss ... and I quickly found my spot in the conservatory to capture "Garden Bathers."  It was SOOOO hot.  Visitors were more reticent about talking to me while I painted than normal.  My guess ... that with sweat pouring down and a probably purple face ... I looked a little frightening. Despite the struggle with the temp, I love "Garden Bathers." Wonder if you do, too?

"Libby House," as mentioned is the view directly across from Libby Park's "Twists and Turns." This painting came to life through conversations with my easel guests who added a sense of history to the scene in front of me. Through them, I learned that a couple who lived there prior loved to eat their dinners  out on their deck porch, enjoying that fantastic view. So there they sit. 
"Church Hill Morn," oil, 16"h x 20"w, ©2017 Jill Banks. Private collection. (Sold)
"Church Hill Morn" was painted over three mornings just steps from my host family (Chris and his dog, Violet). I "camped out" shaded by the hatch of our SUV with all the tools of the trade within easy reach.  Painted this, because I kept watching Richmond wake up morning after morning ... reminded me of the movie "Groundhog Day." Heck, a lot of my life reminds me of that movie since days transpire in slow mo and characters (all of you) become a part of my routine for a bit. "Church Hill Morn" went home with a great couple I met at the opening night at Brazier Gallery. It went to a great home.

In any case, Plein Air Richmond offered a fantastic week spent in an inspiring place ... full of fun with fellow artists, high heat, and culminating in a beautiful show at the Brazier Gallery in the Fan District in Richmond, VA. I believe that some of the paintings will be available for purchase there for a limited time after the show.  It's always amazing to look around at the end of such an event and think that these works of art were just blank canvases days ago. What beautiful pieces were created ... and the blessing is that so many of them found appreciative collectors to snatch them up. If you can, go take a look.

This has been an incredibly long post -- Thanks for sticking with reading it! My blog posts are fewer and farther between but I'm guessing the paintings provide a sufficient excuse for the delay.

I just saw the July issue of Southwest Art Magazine with a really nice article about my work as one of the Editors' Choice: Artists to Watch. Really neat!  Please check it out.  Southwest Art is sold at Barnes and Noble ... and probably lots of other places as well.  Dad -- I talk about you and your very early influence on my art making.

In an hour or two, my next adventure begins.  Telluride Plein Air ... a week in this cool town in Colorado lays ahead.  YAY!!!! If you're in the neighborhood, please visit me, help name the painting in progress, find out why I picked that spot, show me another gem I should not miss.

See you around some town, I hope!!!! Thanks for reading!

Jill Banks

EVENTS
June 5-11: Bucks County Plein Air, Philadelphia PA


June 18-25: Plein Air Richmond, Richmond VA
June 28-July 4: Telluride Plein Air, Telluride CO
July 7: First Friday Art Walk in the Village Centre, 6-8pm -- Start at the Artists'Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. See you there! (The Artists' Atelier is open Wednesdays, noon to 4pm and Saturdays, 10am to 2pm).
 
July 8-9: Wickford Fine Art Festival, Wickford RI
July 1-August 31: Long Beach Island Plein Air Plus, Long Beach Island NJ

September 16-17: Alexandria King Street Art Festival, Alexandria VA
September 23-24: Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk NY
October 14-21: Sedona Plein Air Festival, Sedona AZ
October 20-22: Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Great Falls VA (Artists' Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls -- I'll be there Sunday only.)

Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
 
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)
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Saturday, June 10, 2017

Bucks County Plein Air: Quick Draw and Sale

"Garden Subjects," oil, 16"h x 12"w, ©2017 Jill Banks
I've got to be quick ... Today I received an Honorable Mention for my one-and-a-half hour painting "Garden Subjects" at the Bucks County Plein Air Competition.  You can see it and at this point, five other paintings on Sunday, June 11 at the Bucks County Community College Newtown Campus at 275 Swamp Road in the Linksz Pavilion/Gym from 10am to 4pm.  Then, these beautiful paintings will head home with the 50 painters participating.  So, don't miss it.

We've all been painting like crazy. 

See some of my pieces from the past week on my website ... go to the Bucks County Plein Air events page.

So much news to share ... but it will all have to wait for a moment.

That's the news for now. Thanks for reading!

Jill Banks


UPCOMING EVENTS
June 5-11: Bucks County Plein Air, Philadelphia PA

June 18-25: Plein Air Richmond, Richmond VA

June 28-July 4: Telluride Plein Air, Telluride CO

July 7: First Friday Art Walk in the Village Centre, 6-8pm -- Start at the Artists'Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. See you there! (The Artists' Atelier is open Wednesdays, noon to 4pm and Saturdays, 10am to 2pm).

 
July 8-9: Wickford Fine Art Festival, Wickford RI

July 1-August 31: Long Beach Island Plein Air Plus, Long Beach Island NJ

September 16-17: Alexandria King Street Art Festival, Alexandria VA

September 23-24: Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk NY

October 14-21: Sedona Plein Air Festival, Sedona AZ

October 20-22: Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Great Falls VA (Artists' Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls -- I'll be there Sunday only.)

Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
 
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)
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Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Three in Almost a Row: Bucks County PA, Richmond VA and Telluride CO

I currently think my plein air brushes are a little rusty at the moment.  By mid-July, they'll be anything but.
"La Cote D'Or Cafe," oil, 12"h x 16"w, ©2017 Jill Banks
"La Cote D'Or Cafe" was painted plein air yesterday in, oops, Arlington. I had signed up last minute for the Falls Church Plein Air competition figuring that old kill two birds with one stone principle.  I needed the plein air practice before heading to Pennsylvania for Bucks County and the city of Falls Church was sponsoring a plein air competition.  So I headed off looking for a place to paint. Put on my brakes for this charming building. Spent a few hours across the street painting and battling some early evening mosquitoes. 

Then, realized just now as I checked the spelling that it borders Falls Church and Arlington ... but has an Arlington address. Thus, oops.  That won't work.  At least the piece created on Saturday, "Donut Heaven" at the Falls Church farmer's market will. We'll see if I can pull it together soon enough with some impending departures.

Three Plein Air Competitions Just Ahead
June 5-11: Bucks County Plein Air, Philadelphia PA

June 18-25: Plein Air Richmond, Richmond VA. Just found out that I've been accepted to this event for the first time. Looking forward to painting in Richmond!

June 28-July 4: Telluride Plein Air, Telluride CO

And, Hope to See You at Rittenhouse Square!

June 2-4: Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show, Philadelphia PA. I'll be giving one of the official artist demonstration's on Friday, June 2, noon-1pm at her booth. Would love a volunteer to sit for a quick portrait sketch.

That's the news for now. Thanks for reading!

Jill Banks

Other Events
June 2: First Friday Art Walk in the Village Centre, 6-8pm -- Start at the Artists'Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. See you there! (The Artists' Atelier is open Wednesdays, noon to 4pm and Saturdays, 10am to 2pm). TD Bank Petite Gallery is showing five of Jill's original oils and is open for the First Friday Art Walk, 6-7pm only.
 
June 2-4: Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show, Philadelphia PA
 
June 5-11: Bucks County Plein Air, Philadelphia PA
 
June 18-25: Plein Air Richmond, Richmond VA
 
June 28-July 4: Telluride Plein Air, Telluride, CO
 
July 8-9: Wickford Fine Art Festival, Wickford RI
 
September 16-17: 15th Annual Alexandria King Street Art Festival,, Alexandria, VA
 
September 23-24: Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk, NY
 
Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
 
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)
 
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Friday, May 26, 2017

The Garden Angel

"Angel Wings," oil, 10"h x 8"w, ©2017 Jill Banks

Last week's plein air class was held in one of my student's garden. Tom's wife spends countless hours tending the garden (her canvas) and she wanted to make sure it was in even better than normal shape to welcome the class.  (The garden is beautiful.)

Tom told her that I tend to like some messy parts -- that show signs of life. Left out for us were a wheelbarrow and yellow watering can ... plus a garden spade on the outdoor dining table. All appreciated touches.

The garden angel has a broken wing but that was well propped up and she was given the gift of a hydrangea bouquet with pink ribbons. She was calling to me even before the bouquet.

Peaceful day.

Coming up next: Rittenhouse Square Art Show in Philadelphia -- June 2-4 and Bucks County Plein Air right after that.

Time to panic? Or to think about both painting supplies and what will be in my booth in Philly?

Thanks very much for reading and your interest in my art. I hope to see you soon!
Jill Banks
EVENTS
June 2: First Friday Art Walk in the Village Centre, 6-8pm -- Start at the Artists'Atelier, 756 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. See you there! (The Artists' Atelier is open Wednesdays, noon to 4pm and Saturdays, 10am to 2pm). TD Bank Petite Gallery is showing five of Jill's original oils and is open for the First Friday Art Walk, 6-7pm only.
June 2-4: Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show, Philadelphia PA
June 5-11: Bucks County Plein Air, Philadelphia PA
June 28-July 4: Telluride Plein Air, Telluride, CO
July 8-9: Wickford Fine Art Festival, Wickford RI
September 16-17: 15th Annual Alexandria King Street Art Festival,, Alexandria, VA
September 23-24: Armonk Outdoor Art Show, Armonk, NY
Chosen as one of the Top 9 Painting and Drawing Teachers in the Washington DC area by Expertise.com.
https://www.expertise.com/dc/washington/painting-and-drawing-classes
Blog: For my latest news and works, visit or subscribe to my blog Life as an Artist at jillbanks.blogspot.com
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jill-Banks-Studio-278493468836508/ (Please like that page if you like it...)


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