Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Finishing Paintings

"Eggplant, Tomatoes and Figs," oil on Raymar panel, 8"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2011
Just quickly ... today I'm working on finishing stuff. (Like signing paintings, touching up work, ordering frames, odds and ends.)

"Eggplant, Tomatoes and Figs" was one of the paintings that needed touching up. All done. (I had it leaning unframed above the door frame in my house, and it's a piece that keeps catching my eye. Those simple shapes are mesmerizing.

I'm going to work more on "Turkey Soup" but the light has been so different in the kitchen ... that the time never seems to be right. I have a plan for that piece ... just need some cooperation from the sky. I'm even going to put the soup back on the stove to boil ... to paint the steam.

Exhibits and Events
Richeson 75 Animals, Birds and Wildlife Online Exhibition, November 7- December 15, 2011. "Pretty Girl Hen" was selected as one of 75 finalists viewable online at www.richeson75.com/wildlife/index.html and in a full-color catalog.
Great Falls Studios Holiday Show and Sale, December 10 & 11, 10am-5pm at the Village Green Day School, Walker Road, Great Falls, VA

The Art League "Small Works" Exhibit, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. "Kiwi" and "Ostrich and Polka Dots" are on view November 9-December 5. Both of them won Honorable Mentions this month!

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Tied to My Desk

"Elf and the Chandelier," graphite & colored pencil, ©Jill Banks 2009
Well, not literally. But ... I've been trying my best to finish up the 100 Faces book and get the house ready for my home collector and enthusiasts show -- two daunting tasks. A beautiful big tree has two strand of lights which cover it one time around at the base. The kitchen's a mess. It will all get pulled into shape. It just would be nice to see the light around the corner.

Son Sam and daughter-in-law Michelle have been visiting, too, for the week -- heading back to Richmond tomorrow. I'm working on being social and writing a book -- two incompatible activities.

As much as I want to, I haven't gotten in time at my easel.

But I am thinking about it ... and you ... and will get back to painting as quickly as I can.

Here are some drawings from Christmases past for now.

Exhibits and Events
Richeson 75 Animals, Birds and Wildlife Online Exhibition, November 7- December 15, 2011. "Pretty Girl Hen" was selected as one of 75 finalists viewable online at www.richeson75.com/wildlife/index.html and in a full-color catalog.
 
Great Falls Studios Holiday Show and Sale, December 10 & 11, 10am-5pm at the Village Green Day School, Walker Road, Great Falls, VA

"The Nutcracker," graphite, ©Jill Banks 2010. Private colllection.
The Art League "Small Works" Exhibit, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. "Kiwi" and "Ostrich and Polka Dots" are on view November 9-December 5. Both of them won Honorable Mentions this month!

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Friday, November 25, 2011

The Kitchen The Morning After...

"Turkey Soup," oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2011
... Thanksgiving.

This year's Thanksgiving was a little different this year. Daughter-in-law Michelle lent her Food Sciences skills yesterday making the world's greatest homemade apple pie ... and then for the first time, the turkey carcass didn't go home with my sister-in-law. I never make soup after Thanksgiving. I quit the kitchen after the big day each year. But, Michelle had Turkey Noodle Soup making in her plans for today.

And, I'm suffering from nesting instincts myself. Thinking of ways to bring a new shine around the house. I decided to do it with paint ... today ... as my version of "Turkey Soup."

I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!

Exhibits and Events
Richeson 75 Animals, Birds and Wildlife Online Exhibition, November 7- December 15, 2011. "Pretty Girl Hen" was selected as one of 75 finalists viewable online at www.richeson75.com/wildlife/index.html and in a full-color catalog.

The Art League "Small Works" Exhibit, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. "Kiwi" and "Ostrich and Polka Dots" are on view November 9-December 5. Both of them won Honorable Mentions this month!

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Time to Sign It

"The Writer," oil, 24"h x 20"w, private collection
Today had two major agenda items. One: Work on my 100 Faces in 100 Days book. Two: Take a completed (according to me) portrait to my client for approval (hopefully).

I think agenda item #1 is going well. Agenda item #2 went REALLY well. She loved it -- and the three of us (my client and another family member) stared and commented on it together for about an hour. This will be a present, so I can't show it to you until later -- so instead I've included here some of the other portraits I've done previously -- of other folks.

No matter how many times I reveal a portrait, I'm still anxious about the next time. Today was no different.

I left thinking I was done ... minus the signature... and was pretty excited about that. I do, however, have some minor changes to do that I'll tackle in a week - post-Thanksgiving.  I'm still excited that my client loved it and that it's almost there.

"Jenny," oil, private collection
In case you're interested, you can look through more of my portraits in the Portrait Gallery section of my web site: www.JillBanks.com. There's also a section there on Commissioning a Portrait. Or learn how to paint or draw a portrait yourself. I teach portrait classes through the Great Falls School of Art with the Winter term starting in January. Get more info on my Classes page.

Now it's time to get back to that book.

Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27.  "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

"The Patil Family," oil, private collection
Richeson 75 Animals, Birds and Wildlife Online Exhibition, November 7- December 15, 2011. "Pretty Girl Hen" was selected as one of 75 finalists viewable online at www.richeson75.com/wildlife/index.html and in a full-color catalog.

The Art League "Small Works" Exhibit, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. "Kiwi" and "Ostrich and Polka Dots" are on view November 9-December 5. Both of them won Honorable Mentions this month!

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Treasury of Art This Weekend ... and Happy Birthday, Dad!

We were helping my Dad celebrate catching up to my Mom's age this evening. For a long time ... as a kid, I thought Mom was a lot older vs. six months, thanks to my Dad rounding up her years ... and rounding down his ... as in she's approaching x and I'm just past y. I finally figured it out, but not before writing a picture book about myself in 2nd Grade that probably made my teacher really wonder about Mom, the older woman.

A special treat for the night was that son Sam was in town (on business) to help his Papa celebrate.

I found out today that three of my pieces are juried into the Vienna Arts Society's Treasury of Art Show by juror Jonathan Linton. There you'll see "Barn Dance," "Shalonda," and "JJ."

The Treasury of Art is the largest art show of the year in Vienna, VA. It's just this weekend, so:
"Shalonda," oil, 24"h x 18"w, ©Jill Banks 2011
Friday, November 18: 10am-9pm
Saturday, November 19: 10am-9pm
Sunday, November 20, Noon-4pm
at the Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry Street,
Vienna, VA.
There's an Awards Reception Friday night, 7-9pm.

I've been off of my normal blogging schedule -- to concentrate on my 100 Faces book and finishing up a portrait commission. Sorry about that! It's a juggling act at the moment. Actually, when isn't it?

Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27.  "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

Richeson 75 Animals, Birds and Wildlife Online Exhibition, November 7- December 15, 2011. "Pretty Girl Hen" was selected as one of 75 finalists viewable online at www.richeson75.com/wildlife/index.html and in a full-color catalog.

The Art League "Small Works" Exhibit, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. "Kiwi" and "Ostrich and Polka Dots" are on view November 9-December 5. Both of them won Honorable Mentions this month!

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Monday, November 14, 2011

"The Poker Club": Day Two

"The Poker Club" work in progress, oil, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011
Tonight was Day Two -- painting my Dad's Poker Club buddies "live" at their condo. It was quite a night ... and my models are getting a very big kick out of being captured together in paint.

I had worked on this some from photos -- to place my Dad in the scene (his back is toward you), to correct some serious drawing issues from Day One ... and to paint Stanley (the Poker Czar) dealing standing up. I made the last brave task  ... to move Stanley with 45 minutes to go before packing the painting and my gear in the car. It made all the difference in the world.

I'm going to let this rest, and dry in its present stage, and then will tackle the chips and cards ... and  drinks on the table from photos.

That's it for tonight. Time to rest.

Web Site Updates
Animals are definitely on my mind, what with these Beanie Baby paintings and the Richeson Exhibit ... so today I added a new gallery to my web site: Animals, Birds and Wildlife. My own version of a virtual/online farm and zoo. Please take a look and tell me what you think.

Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27.  "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

Richeson 75 Animals, Birds and Wildlife Online Exhibition, November 7- December 15, 2011. "Pretty Girl Hen" was selected as one of 75 finalists viewable online at www.richeson75.com/wildlife/index.html and in a full-color catalog.

The Art League "Small Works" Exhibit, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. "Kiwi" and "Ostrich and Polka Dots" are on view November 9-December 5.

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Sunday, November 13, 2011

The Art Connection

"Pumpkin Pie," oil, 12"h x 12"w by Jill Banks
First, "Pumpkin Pie" isn't new ... I've been working on a portrait commission and reworking the "Poker Club" the last few days ... so I don't have any "fresh paint" pictures to post.

For some reason this post has been harder to write than others. I know what I want to convey but the words have been awkward. Still, so many things have happened lately that feel so good, I've got to figure it out.

This is what has happened lately.

Teaching Rewards
On Friday, I received a phone call from a friend ... who sounded hoarse. It turned out she was in tears. She was crying because she'd just been given the gift of taking my Still Life class.

Last Monday and Tuesday, as classes closed for the Fall -- I sat in the corner where I could see the whole class worth of canvases, and appreciated how far they had come. It's astounding, really.  I see them passing what they've learned and their passion onto their easel-mates. They've made great friendships in that classroom, too... and are proud of each other. I'm grateful to have had a hand in all of that.

On Wednesday, Randy and I went to new collectors' home to help them make a decision between two pieces of art. What greeted us was a really warm welcome, treats and drinks, and a chance to get to know each other better. They were thankful that we were willing to bring the work to their house. I loved that they loved each piece so much that they were torn between the two. They are still torn -- but are considering purchasing both. Those two paintings have looked terrific on exhibit in other places. They have never looked as beautiful, and powerful, as they did in their house. That includes how they looked on the prime spot on the mantel in my own family room. Those paintings transformed an already beautiful space.

An interesting note is that this couple don't already own a lot of art. They are new to collecting and new collectors of mine. My pieces connected enough with them that they decided to become collectors. I love it when my work joins an existing collection, but it's pretty wonderful to have my work start one.

The Poker Club
On Monday, my Dad and six of his poker buddies ... got together to be my models on an EXTRA poker night so that I could paint them. (The regular poker group that meets on Wednesdays is too big for me to fit on the canvas -- so I'll have a Fall painting of seven and a Spring painting of seven other players.) They were willing to sit -- just as four of them did for my 100 Faces project -- to help me capture an important part of their lives. Tomorrow, I'll paint them again.

The Reston Bike Club Meeting
1st Place Winner: "W&OD BBQ" at the Reston Bike Club Annual Meeting
Tonight I attended the Annual Meeting of the Reston Bike Club as an honorary guest because my painting, "W&OD BBQ" was the 1st prize winner in the Reston Century T-Shirt Art Competition this Summer. The Reston Bike Club is a very supportive group, with many friends sharing a common passion. They also share a great sense of humor. Medals were given out to not only the most improved riders, but the leading member of the Black & Blue Club and Cutest Couple. I talked to a number of members who admired my piece and were interested in hearing more about it. One assumed that I was a cyclist because I brought such a sense of the place to the painting. What was great was being somewhere -- not surrounded by art enthusiasts, but by people who appreciated my art because it encompassed something special in their world.

I think there are multiple thoughts here. But, I'm thankful that there are people who appreciate and love what I create. I'm thankful for students who want to share the passion of creating and are excited to learn from me. I'm grateful there are people, like my Dad's poker club buddies, who will let me capture -- if I can -- a bit of their world and camraderie.

In the course of doing what I most love to do, my life keeps getting better, and richer, through your support, time and encouragement. Thank you!

Web Site Updates
Animals are definitely on my mind, what with these Beanie Baby paintings and the Richeson Exhibit ... so today I added a new gallery to my web site: Animals, Birds and Wildlife. My own version of a virtual/online farm and zoo. Please take a look and tell me what you think.

Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27.  "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

Richeson 75 Animals, Birds and Wildlife Online Exhibition, November 7- December 15, 2011. "Pretty Girl Hen" was selected as one of 75 finalists viewable online at www.richeson75.com/wildlife/index.html and in a full-color catalog.

The Art League "Small Works" Exhibit, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. "Kiwi" and "Ostrich and Polka Dots" are on view November 9-December 5.

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

The Richeson 75 Animal and Wildlife and the Art League's "Small Works" Exhibit

"Pretty Girl Hen" is in International Online Exhibit
I'd mentioned that I was a finalist in the Richeson 75 Animals, Birds and Wildlife Online Exhibition a while ago with my painting "Pretty Girl Hen." That show has just gone live online ... and the works chosen are simply phenomenal. I didn't receive an award but I'm truly honored that one of my pieces was chosen as one of the 75 finalists in this International show. When I received a notice from Terry Stanley of Richeson (a manufacturer and retailer of fine art supplies), he was clearly enthusiastic about the quality of the entries and selected work. Now I see why.

This exhibit is only online -- the first Richeson show that is exclusively on the web. That was one of the draws for me to participate. I didn't need to ship artwork keeping my costs down. I would love to see all of these works in person, though. I bet the juror agrees.

See the show online at: www.richeson75.com/wildlife/index.html. There will be a people's choice award ... so cast your vote on your favorite piece. Instructions are on the Richeson exhibition site. One vote per email address.

Beanie Babies Both Win Honorable Mentions in the Art League's 
"Small Works" November Show
"Kiwi," oil, 6"h x 6"w, ©Jill Banks 2011
Two of my Beanie Baby Paintings, "Kiwi" and "Ostrich and Polka Dots" won Honorable Mentions in the Art League's "Small Works" exhibit. Pretty cool! Art League members were allowed to enter four pieces with the possibility that two would be accepted. (Normally, members can enter two pieces for jurying and only one can be accepted.) It seems that plenty of us had small works to enter. My entry numbers were 901, 902, 903 and 904. That's crazy. There's an awards reception tomorrow (Thursday) night, November 10, 6:30 to 8:00pm.

Randy Sat for My Portrait Class
This was definitely above the call of duty. On Monday morning, for my last day of the term, the scheduled model was sick and couldn't make it to class. I was trying to (quickly) figure out what to do -- I tried calling my mom and emailing whoever I thought would be up and perhaps willing to show up. Even if they had to show up in their jammies. (I think that would be a great portrait, personally.) While I was busy panicking, Randy was up getting ready -- probably thinking long and hard about what he was about to propose. If I wanted him to -- he would sit for the class. I even got to pick out his shirt.

"Ostrich and Polka Dots," oil, 6"h x 6"w, ©Jill Banks 2011
Now, I can't believe he offered and did this. He's been my very reluctant sitter the various times I've wanted to place him into one of my paintings. It's just hard for Randy to sit still.

He was a great model, anyway ... and I think Randy enjoyed spending time with my class. It would be hard not to. I got a kick out of watching my students enter the class -- thinking they had one model (or no model) and seeing that it was Randy up there on the stand. Lots of wide eyes. And, they were pretty excited about having a mustache to paint. Yea, facial hair! With a nice face, to boot.

Web Site Updates
Animals are definitely on my mind, what with these Beanie Baby paintings and the Richeson Exhibit ... so today I added a new gallery to my web site: Animals, Birds and Wildlife. My own version of a virtual/online farm and zoo. Please take a look and tell me what you think.

Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27.  "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11. "Alan" was juried into the show.
Richeson 75 Animals, Birds and Wildlife Online Exhibition, November 7- December 15, 2011. "Pretty Girl Hen" was selected as one of 75 finalists viewable online at www.richeson75.com/wildlife/index.html and in a full-color catalog.

The Art League "Small Works" Exhibit, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. "Kiwi" and "Ostrich and Polka Dots" are on view November 9-December 5.

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Monday, November 7, 2011

"The Poker Game": Day One

"The Poker Club" work in progress, oil on linen, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011
I will have to write another post (not tonight) about Randy modeling for my last day of Portrait class.

But, tonight I started painting my Dad and his poker buddies. Version One of the Fall/Winter group. I wasn't sure how this would work  -- but it did. I broke all sorts of my own rules to speed up getting a lot of the background in there. I resorted to using Turpenoid (odorless mineral spirits) to cover a big area -- fast. This abbreviated poker club group had a bunch of rules to follow -- like very clean language in the company of yours truly. They held it together pretty well.

I went with a very large canvas (30"h x 40"w) -- because I figured each head would be small enough. I'd like to work larger still -- but working from life -- the width of the canvas obscures your view. The image that comes to mind is the Norman Rockwell painting with him peering from being the canvas. Imagine trying to paint the right side from all the way on the left. (No, you can't peer sometimes from the right and sometimes from the left. The perspective on the drawing would be way off.

My dad & mom with me (the smocked one) in the background
I am truly appreciative to Pepper, Wade, Stanley, Frank, Russ, Walt and my Dad -- for agreeing to be part of my experiment and play poker two times this week. The only one missing from the painting -- so far -- is my Dad who had his back to me. I'll look through some of the photos I took tonight to figure out where to place him in the scene. I will definitely be painting a draft of the chips and cards on the table from photos -- to be adjusted, from life, next week.

To Frank: the name of the painting is not official yet.

Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27.  "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11. "Alan" was juried into the show.

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
Email

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Treasure Trove of Drawings and Musings on the Poker Club

Found: Drawings
"Male Portrait," conté by Jill Banks
I mentioned a little while ago that Randy has been going through many of my drawings that are stashed in numerous (understatement) sketchbooks and pads all throughout the house. He'd been working for a long time and called me downstairs to take a look and make some decisions. Sketches were all around the room, along with various frames and precut mats I had on hand. It was like discovering buried treasure. I didn't remember creating all of them (although I know I did). In a way, that helped me see them with fresh eyes and a new appreciation. In particular, I loved the two watercolor nudes and a male portrait in conté.

My job was to separate all that work into groups: 1) ones I'm framing now, 2) ones I might frame later, 3) ones just to keep/not for sale and 4) ones to discard now.

Group #1 of newly discovered gems and more recent works on paper then headed off with me to the framer -- to pair them up with the right color mats and perfect frames and glass.  That is quite a job but it is what turns a sketch in a sketchpad into ... a "hey, look at me!" Here are just some of them.

"Reclining Nude, Back," graphite, Sketch & Wash pencil and wash
Since going to the framer, many more drawings have shown up that are Group #1 worthy.  So more trips to come.

Tomorrow is the last official day of my Fall Portrait class and then Tuesday is the final day of Still Life. We may continue to meet for a few more sessions to fill some students wish to finish "something." I do remember that feeling when I was taking classes. I never had quite enough time during class to complete a painting.

"Sepia Reclining Nude," watercolor & pencil
"Head Scarf and Red Skirt," red, white& black charcoal by Jill Banks
Tomorrow night I start on the Poker Club painting. Randy and I went over to the Social Room in my parents' condo to take a look  (with my mom & dad) so I could (sort of) plan where to set up my easel. I need to tone down expectations for what will be accomplished during my painting time. Tomorrow is an experiment ... just like my 100 Faces in 100 Days Project ... but much more complex with seven people versus one. I haven't decided on the size of my canvas -- but I know it will be fairly large. Larger paintings take more time. I may have a pile of scribbles in three hours. I'll be painting there again the following week. That will be three more hours. That's not a lot of time. Six hours divided by seven people and some sort of background. When Robert (Bob) E. Simon sat to become Face #100, he became my quickest portrait at one hour and fifteen minutes -- the time he had available. If my seven poker players could all grow beards between today and tomorrow plus wear hats and hide their hands, I might paint fast enough.

"Great Falls Village Center Lamppost," ink wash & pen&ink
Since the Poker Club time ends at 10pm, I may get a post up ... but not in time for you to get an email that it's up -- for subscribers. Check for it on Tuesday morning anyway. Keep your fingers crossed and I hope to go with the flow ... and enjoy the show.

Expressions Portrait Competition Reception
ArtSpace Herndon hosted a great reception (as usual) last night for the Expressions Portrait Competition. I wasn't one of the prize winners -- but I do think my painting "Tranquility" looks pretty great in there. Each of the 29 finalists have one piece each in the show and I think every portrait in there is pretty spectacular. Take a look if you have a chance. It would have been a particularly difficult show to judge for awards because the pieces selected as finalists were all consistently well conceived and executed. Kudos to the jurors of selection (the ones that choose paintings as finalist), Tricia Ratliff and Caron Broadway Moody of Broadway Gallery.

Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27.  "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11. "Alan" was juried into the show.

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
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Saturday, November 5, 2011

The Art League Blog Covers Out & About Norfolk Event

I check the Art League's blog about once a week ... and today's reading turned up nice coverage of the Art League Plein Air Painters who participated in Out & About Norfolk a couple of weeks ago. Here's the blog post or go to www.theartleaguegallery.blogspot.com.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011


The Art League's Plein Air Painters Visit Norfolk

The Art League Plein Air Painters, a group formed this summer, made it down to Norfolk last month for a plein air event, the fifth annual "Out & About Norfolk." October 20 and 21, painters around the city worked at their easels, including AL Plein Air Painters Bobbi Pratte, Jill Banks, David Diaz, Jo Ellen Murphy, and Lynn Mehta. They all won awards!

Bobbi Pratte painted Hermitage Rose Garden, which won the Juror's Choice Award.
"Out & About Norfolk" is a yearly juried paint out. You can see the award winners here. Works from the event are on view Thursdays through Sundays until November 20. Details are on the event website.

Art League Plein Air Painters Jean Schwartz and Jill Banks have also been selected for the American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National Exhibition, which opens today and runs through Nov. 11. Jean also reports that she has been juried in as a Salmagundi Club member.

Congratulations!
 Thanks!! And congratulations Jean on your new Salmagundi Club membership!

Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27. Reception and awards, November 5, 7pm. "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

The Art League's October All-Media Membership Exhibit,  105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA. My charcoal drawing of "Oscar" was juried in and will be on view through November 7. "Cubanelle and Roses" is in the Bin Gallery.

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11. "Alan" was juried into the show.

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
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Friday, November 4, 2011

"Orange Slices" Painting and a Day at the Framer's

"Orange Slices," oil, 6"h x 6"w, ©Jill Banks 2011
My afternoon was spent picking out frames and mats, ordering glass for a good portion of the drawings that Randy's recently rediscovered hanging out all around the house. I'm excited about them all and in a separate post ... sometime soon (maybe) I'll take some photos of the group and post them. (My framer is Framemasters in Fairfax, VA. They're great!)

This evening I painted "Orange Slices" -- a small work in honor of all those calls for little paintings that I'm considering for November shows (the Art League, Randy Higbee Gallery, Great Falls Studios show at the Atelier in December).

The reception for the Expressions Portrait Exhibit is tomorrow night. See below for more info.

And, on Monday night I'm embarking on a new adventure. (I'm determined to keep shaking up my life and art -- in a good way.) I'll be painting Part One of my Poker Club Painting Project ... or at least starting it and getting ideas. The Poker Club Painting Project grew out of my 100 Faces in 100 Days Project. I'm into projects.

My Dad and three of his poker buddies (one at a time) came to sit to become some of my Faces. During our sittings, 1) I got to know them better and 2) they opened a window into poker club dynamics and great male friendships. This was one of the many "worlds" that my 100 Faces introduced ... and I decided to try to capture it.  So this will be my Faces project multiplied since I'll be working to capture, from life, seven people. I hope it works.

Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27. Reception and awards, November 5, 7pm. "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

The Art League's October All-Media Membership Exhibit,  105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA. My charcoal drawing of "Oscar" was juried in and will be on view through November 7. "Cubanelle and Roses" is in the Bin Gallery.

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11. "Alan" was juried into the show.

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
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Wednesday, November 2, 2011

What a Difference a Varnish (and a Supportive Spouse) Make...

Not necessarily in that order.

The newly varnished "NYC Street" on our mantel
Yea for Spouses!
For any of you who follow my blog or attend my art events, you already know I lucked out in the supportive spouse category. My husband Randy has an awful lot to do with my success as a professional artist. He's my framer, picture hanger, packager, agent, mailer, money guy, bookkeeper and more. Thank goodness! All his work leaves me the time I need to paint, teach, blog and market my work.

Perhaps spurred on by collectors turning October into a very financially successful month and upcoming art sales events, Randy's helping out in new ways. He's now in the push-me-to-finish business, meaning Randy is:
  • collecting unframed drawings (a big job)
  • looking for paintings that are missing my signature (and getting me to sign them)
  • figuring out which paintings need to be varnished (and varnishing them)
  • figuring out which paintings need to be framed and checking the frame inventory to see what we need to order/select
These are all tasks that need to be done to turn this artwork into purchasable/ready-to-hang art. And yet, they are all exceedingly difficult to get around to doing, i.e., my most procrastination-prone pile of "stuff to do."

Yea for Varnish!
I'd told you that on Sunday, one collector purchased two of my paintings -- one of which is "Lots of Peppers" and the other is one of my two large-scale New York City street scenes. She couldn't decide which one yet -- but that will happen this week. Both of those paintings needed a final varnish. Randy took care of that -- and they look fantastic! Varnishing brings out the true colors and contrasts of a painting -- bringing it back to its wet-paint finish. Before the varnish, darks in particular look lighter, a little milky. By varnishing "NYC Street," all the colors in the light pop, the image looks crisper and the painting is more interesting. I figured I'd let you see it, propped on my mantel, just in case its the one to go. (I use Gamvar Final Picture Varnish.)


Saturday
I plan to be in the Artists' Atelier for open hours this coming Saturday, November 5 from noon-4pm before heading to the reception for the Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon. The Atelier still looks pretty terrific from Studio Tour in case you want to stop by at 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066. And, because I'll be there, I'll miss all the activities going on at the Phillips Collection on that day in honor of their 90th Anniversary. Here's the scoop on that:
The Phillips Collection
Saturday, November 5
10am-8pn
Free admission

On the day D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray has proclaimed "Phillips Collection Day," celebrate the museum's 90th anniversary with a day of free activities, gallery talks, and live music. Highlights include:
  • Free admission to Degas's Dancers at the Barre: Point and Counterpoint
  • Cupcake party favors while supplies last (10am-noon)
  • Hands-on art-making inspired by Will Ryman's outdoor sculpture of colossal pink roses (10am-noon)
  • Hourly gallery talks on Renoir's Luncheon of the Boating Party and European Masterworks (11am-6pm)
  • "Happy Birthday" sing-along led by Ben Eisler from ABC7/WJLA-TV (noon)
  • Ballet students from the Kirov Academy of Ballet of Washington D.C. practicing in the Degas exhibition (12:30-3:00pm)
  • Interactive self-guide to the collection by illustrator Elizabeth Graeber
  • Musical performances throughout the day, featuring Parisian-inspired accordionist Manny Bobenrieth, the Capital Hearings a cappella group, Teiber Trio, Tommy Cecil Quartet, Yvonne Johnson Trio and DJ Neville C.
  • Cash bar with wine, beer, champagne, and light snacks (4:15-8:00pm)
Sponsored by AON Huntington Block Insurance. Media partner ABC7/WJLA-TV.
Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27. Reception and awards, November 5, 7pm. "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

The Art League's October All-Media Membership Exhibit,  105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA. My charcoal drawing of "Oscar" was juried in and will be on view through November 7. "Cubanelle and Roses" is in the Bin Gallery.

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11. "Alan" was juried into the show.

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
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Tuesday, November 1, 2011

I Added Some Lilies...

"Osage-Oranges, Lilies and Purple" work in progress, 24"h x 18"w, oil by Jill Banks
After my Still Life class, I went shopping at Safeway ... to buy some flowers (and collect some new Fall leaves) to help me complete this painting. (And I'm not done yet.) Lilies got added to the mix. Grapes were covered up. My new Fall leaves curled while I watched. I have a least another day of painting if not more. This one is challenging because I've started and stopped multiple times and my subjects are not still in the slightest.

Class Time
Yesterday and today, I looked around at the paintings up on the easels scattered throughout the classroom and felt proud. Each week -- progress is being made. Someone learns how to progress through the painting more easily, to apply paint better, see more clearly, or discover their own signature. There's a lot happening right before my eyes. What's equally great is how supportive each of them are of one another. They are in awe of each others' grapes (or honey jar or geese...).


Exhibits & Events
Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, November 1 through 27. Reception and awards, November 5, 7pm. "Tranquility" was chosen as one of the finalists. 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.

The Art League's October All-Media Membership Exhibit,  105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA. My charcoal drawing of "Oscar" was juried in and will be on view through November 7. "Cubanelle and Roses" is in the Bin Gallery.

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11. "Alan" was juried into the show.

To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
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