Moving Day: Torpedo Factory

My side of Studio #333 at the Torpedo Factory -- seen through the window

Although my first planned painting day at the Torpedo Factory Arts Center isn't until this Thursday, August 2, Randy and I took the main load of paintings and some gear there today and hung the wall. Actually, Randy hung the wall(s) and I supervised.

The main workspace area is in the back -- toward the windows

If tiredness hadn't been a factor (just from a lack of sleep), I would have been reveling a lot more over how decidedly wonderful this place is. While paintings were going up, I kept peeking out to see a shower of art spirit right outside (and inside) my window. This morning, during load in -- it felt really conspicuous to be rolling in large art carts over tile floors while visitors roamed in and out of the galleries. There will be some of that tomorrow -- as the furniturish (made up word) items are left to be installed in the studio (like my own taboret, a sculpture stand, light stand, etc.)

Just like everything else, this is a lot of work -- and my stay at the Torpedo Factory is only one month long. I'm sure it will fly by. I hope all of you come to visit. There is so much to see there -- for me and you. One of my goals is to explore on my off (not already scheduled) hours and review some of my favorites here. There are 82 studios here!

Don't miss what's back in the workspace area... some favorites

Studio #333 at the Torpedo Factory (at 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA) is normally occupied by Beverly Ryan whose Summer travels have freed up the studio for Visiting Resident Studio Artists. Her work occupies the right side of the studio and my paintings are on the left. Our styles/work is completely different, but the proximity makes me worry that someone is going to think I have a split art personality. It is confusing. A dilemma to try to solve sometime soon.

The floors are concrete. Hard. I'll also have to work on that.

My official hours there on Thursday are from 2-9pm. Tomorrow I'll be in and out in the afternoon.

And there are five paintings and drawings in the studio right now -- of sights in London -- in honor of the Olympic games. They include "London Times," "Parliament," "Tower of London," "Buckingham Palace Fountain," and "Duck Pond at St. James Park." Come take a look.

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333. See regular hours/days, reception, demo dates on the events page on my web site.  
Reception: Thursday, August 9, 6-9pm (2nd Thursday Art Night receptions throughout the Torpedo Factory).  
Portrait painting demos: Sunday, August 12 and August 19, 1 to 5pm with a great model.
I'll be in my studio:
Mondays, 10am-5pm
Thursdays, 2-9pm
Friday, noon-6pm
Saturdays, noon to 6pm
Sundays, noon to 6pm
Other events/times will be listed on my event page on my new web site. I hope to see you there!

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm. 

August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project
Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

Back to "Hudson" NYC River View

"Hudson" work in progess, oil, 40"h x 30"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

In the midst of time spent getting ready for my August visiting residency in the Torpedo Factory (art center in Alexandria,VA), I snuck in some nice hours returning to this painting, an enlarged version of one started in the hotel room shower in Soho. Every morning for a three-day stay, I worked on the little version of this ... watching the sunrise on the Hudson ... and the city come to life.

It must have been quite a scene. I'm not usually a sunrise watcher. Something to change about myself.

See "Sunset in NYC" on my web site for the view at a 90-degree angle ... at sunset."Sunset in NYC" and the painting sketch done in the shower are my models for this piece.

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333. See regular hours/days, reception, demo dates on the events page on my web site.  
Reception: Thursday, August 9, 6-9pm (2nd Thursday Art Night receptions throughout the Torpedo Factory).  
Portrait painting demos: Sunday, August 12 and August 19, 1 to 5pm with a great model.
I'll be in my studio:
Mondays, 10am-5pm
Thursdays, 2-9pm
Friday, noon-6pm
Saturdays, noon to 6pm
Sundays, noon to 6pm
Other events/times will be listed on my event page on my new web site. I hope to see you there!

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm. 

August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project
Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

"The Poker Club" National Arts Club Bound

"The Poker Club," oil, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

My painting of my dad and his friends, "The Poker Club," was accepted into the Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club's 116th Annual Open Juried Exhibition at the National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, New York, NY 10003

October 2-26, 2012
Benefit Reception, Fri., Oct. 12
Awards Dinner, Fri., Oct. 26

This means at least one road trip to NYC and a wonderful reception. Yea!

This will be my fourth time exhibiting at the CLWAC's Annual Open Exhibition. The National Arts Club is well worth a visit.

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333. See regular hours/days, reception, demo dates on the events page on my web site.  
Reception: Thursday, August 9, 6-9pm (2nd Thursday Art Night receptions throughout the Torpedo Factory).  
Portrait painting demos: Sunday, August 12 and August 19, 1 to 5pm with a great model.
I'll be in my studio:
Mondays, 10am-5pm
Thursdays, 2-9pm
Friday, noon-6pm
Saturdays, noon to 6pm
Sundays, noon to 6pm
Other events/times will be listed on my event page on my new web site. I hope to see you there!

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm. 

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project
Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

Day Eight: The Brown Portrait and a Doll

Carolyn, me, Lou in front of the portrait in progress

This morning was the last day that Carolyn and Lou Brown came through the door and walked straight to the couch in my living room ...  to sit for their portrait. Randy and I then took them to lunch and to the airport for their flight back home to Alabama. I can't imagine not seeing them tomorrow morning. It's been a really fun week. We heard the three-legged pig joke at lunch today. I should say after lunch which is oftentimes the best time to hear one of Lou's jokes.

"Clown Girl and Kisses" will be heading to Alabama...

So for eight days while I've been staring at the two of them, Carolyn and Lou have been staring at my painting across the room -- "Clown Girl and Kisses." Today, Carolyn asked Lou if he had asked about the painting. He said no, and then asked if the painting was for sale. I said yes and Lou said he'd take it. It will be Carolyn's birthday present. I'm so glad that it will be with them. While all of us have some great memories of this time together, having "Clown Girl and Kisses" up on their wall in Alabama will just reinforce them.

Carolyn started laughing today -- and said tomorrow morning she's probably going to head for the couch. Randy cleared the easel and my gear out of the living room -- back to my studio. Otherwise I'd probably head to the corner there.

There's still a long way to go on their portrait, but it's off to a good, solid start. My living room will be there as a model. I'm holding onto their cribbage board and cards until done. That much staring will pay off. See the Portrait collection on my web site to see some of my finished paintings.

The Brown Portrait ... work in progress, day 8

Lou does a very funny impression of me painting. Apparently I stick my neck forward and squint. Then, pull back with a surprised look and open eyes. Must be a scary sight.

Web Updates
While resting up after getting back home, I put up five paintings -- on my web site ... including "Clown Girl and Kisses" and my four remaining Beanie Baby paintings. You can find them in the Still Life section of my Works portfolio.

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333. See regular hours/days, reception, demo dates on the events page on my web site.  
Reception: Thursday, August 9, 6-9pm (2nd Thursday Art Night receptions throughout the Torpedo Factory).  
Portrait painting demos: Sunday, August 12 and August 19, 1 to 5pm with a great model.
I'll be in my studio:
Mondays, 10am-5pm
Thursdays, 2-9pm
Friday, noon-6pm
Saturdays, noon to 6pm
Sundays, noon to 6pm
Other events/times will be listed on my event page on my new web site. I hope to see you there!

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm. 

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

"Passing the Mighty Midget" and the Brown Portrait

"Passing the Mighty Midget," oil on Raymar board, 8"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Quick post ... because I'm working still on the portrait of Lou and Carolyn Brown in anticipation for just a few more hours "live" tomorrow before they head home. The rest of the finishing will be done with photo references.

Lots of progress today.

"Passing the Mighty Midget" was finished last night ...  and started a week and a half ago ... plein air in Leesburg, VA. There are some good stories to go with it, too. Just not now.

New Web Site
A new drawing was added ("St. James Park" from London) to the Drawing Collection on my web site today. Go to www.JillBanks.com. Sign up for Fall classes, now listed. Please join my email list for the latest art news. Thanks to those of you who already signed up! (Oh, and subscribe to this blog for more frequent updates.)

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333. See regular hours/days, reception, demo dates on the events page on my web site. Reception: Thursday, August 9, 6-9pm (2nd Thursday Art Night receptions throughout the Torpedo Factory). Portrait painting demos: Sunday, August 12 and August 19, 1 to 5pm with a great model. Open: Thursdays, 2-9pm; Saturdays & Sundays, noon to 6pm; Mondays, 10am-5pm. Other events/times will be listed on my event page on my new web site. I hope to see you there!

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm. 

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

"The Brogue Bar" and a Birthday Celebration

"The Brogue Bar," oil, 18"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Secret project #1 revealed. I started "The Brogue Bar" back in May, setting up my easel in the pub part of the Old Brogue in Great Falls, VA. The Brogue has served as the backdrop of many of my paintings, each of them has been set in the Katie's Coffee/Snuggery side. My plan was to paint the bar itself and the people who populated it when I was ready (had gotten to that part of the painting).

Jed on left, and David, on right in front of the painting

The day following my first session there, I was contacted by Marjorie Fox who had been told by friends that her husband (David Fox) was featured in my painting. She wanted to purchase it as his 70th birthday gift -- a gift that was delivered tonight at his "surprise" 70 party.

David is in the hat to the far right, talking to his best friend, Jed, who is leaning against the post in the white shirt. Thing is, Jed wasn't at the Brogue the first day I painted there. And, David was originally sitting to the left of the post. Since it was a surprise gift, I couldn't exactly ask them to cooperate with my original painting start. By the end, I painted David three times ... but as they say, the third time's the charm. It definitely was in this case.

Because I painted this as people appeared in the scene, it didn't allow me to see the painting as a whole composition. All three of my original subjects to the left of the pole were facing to the right -- which was definitely not good. My husband, Randy, helped me correct the problem by sitting in the seat second to the right, and facing to the left.

Marjorie graciously invited Randy and me to attend tonight's celebration of David's 70th, a private party at the Brogue (Katie's Coffee/Snuggery side this time) ... with "The Brogue Bar" hanging over the mantel  -- the prime spot -- for the occasion. She considers meeting me -- and my having been in the bar painting her husband -- serendipitous. Serendipity works both ways.

It was fun to be there at the party and witness the guests' reactions. That's a real understatement. People loved it. They loved the way it captured the atmosphere of a spot so familiar. That felt great.

And, this is one of those days, I can't write about all the wonderful parts. There were way too many.

New Web Site
One drawing was added today to the Drawing Collection on my Works page. ("Buckingham Palace Fountain" -- one of my favorites from last year's London trip. Go to www.JillBanks.com. Sign up for Fall classes, now listed. Please join my email newsletter list. Thanks to those of you who already signed up! (Oh, and subscribe to this blog for more frequent updates.)

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm.

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333. See regular hours/days, reception, demo dates on the events page on my web site.

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

Painting the Brown Portrait: Day 4

Portrait in progress, oil, 30"h x 40"w

It's seven minutes until post time ... so I better type quickly.

This is the third day of painting a portrait of Lou and Carolyn Brown. (Day 1 was a sketching day.) Stuff keeps getting added to my living room, like a ruler to make sure the coffee table line is straight, my various sketches, a new color or two, our drinks, the USA Today, etc. Lou and Carolyn arrive each day and head straight to their couch and sit. No stopping on the way ... and that's how we spend each morning.

We've had some funny exchanges. When I mentioned to Carolyn at the end of today's session that I was pleased with the day's progress, she said "I'm glad you're pleased with it." That could be taken numerous ways.

My parents had the Browns, Randy and I over for dinner. Carolyn talked about my "erasing." They have seen me -- a few times -- dip my paper towel in Gamsol and scrub a section of the canvas. They then try to guess which one of them or what part has disappeared. Good reason. Lou's face disappeared between the first and second day.

I believe all three of us are having fun.

New Web Site
One drawing was added today to the Drawing Collection on my Works page. ("Buckingham Palace Fountain" -- one of my favorites from last year's London trip. Go to www.JillBanks.com. Sign up for Fall classes, now listed. Please join my email newsletter list. Thanks to those of you who already signed up!

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm.

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

Brown Portrait: Day Two, First Painting Day

"Lou and Carolyn Brown" portrait in progress in the living room

Today was the day the palette came out -- loaded up with piles of fresh oil paint.

Yesterday I drew a rough sketch for compositional purposes and last night we enlarged and printed copies of it at actual size to match the two different canvases that were stretched and ready to go. Carolyn and Lou picked the size and composition ... and that let me get started.

The first painting day is my "no worry" day for the week. Because oil paints dry slowly, all the other painting days will need to be planned a bit. There will be areas I can't touch for a few days. At the same time, I have to get some paint throughout the canvas ... so it can dry and have a second coat applied in four or five days. Hmmm. I was working on the sunflowers and background after they left to make the most of their time with me.

I've enjoyed talking with Carolyn about her quilting, her passion and piecing some of their history together. Eating lunch together, it was interesting to see how they looked close up vs. across the room with my not perfect vision. I love spending non-painting time with the people I'm painting. Somehow those two perspectives combine to give a clearer sense of the individuals. Close up, I realize what I need to capture.

Tomorrow morning will be painting session two.

I thought about fixing tomorrow's lunch, but reconsidered. Time to rest up for another big day for all three of us.

New Web Site
Three drawings were added today to the Drawing Collection on my Works page. Go to www.JillBanks.com. Sign up for Fall classes, now listed. Please join my email newsletter list. Thank you!

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm.

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

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

"Onion Colors" and Day One: Brown Portrait

"Onion Colors" work in progress, oil, 14"h x 11"w,

Quick post because I've got work to do still before tomorrow's portrait sittings.

"Onion Colors" is a start of these pretty personable onions purchased at the farmstand right near the Atelier. More to come ... before they rot.

The Brown Portrait: Day One
Carolyn and Lou Brown sat this afternoon for the first day of portrait planning. I sketched for two hours -- a pretty quick composite in charcoal to give me an idea of how to start the painting on canvas. Then did a portrait sketch in charcoal of first Lou's and then Carolyn's face only ... to get some time in studying their faces.

Lou told a couple of jokes ... one of which was hilarious. I think there will plenty more of those this week.

Tomorrow morning I'll start putting some paint on the canvas.

Take a look at my new web site at www.JillBanks.com -- with Fall classes listed, upcoming events, and sign up for my email newsletter. Today, I inadvertently deleted my AOL email contact main list for art events -- so if you were on my email list, you may not be now.

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm.

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

It's Here ... New Web Site

Home Page of www.JillBanks.com

A Work In Progress
I think if you go to www.JillBanks.com that you'll see my new web site. There's still much to do ... changes will be happening daily so keep checking back. You may need to refresh your screens as your computer likes to keep the old information and pages in its cache. Let me know if what you get ... doesn't look like this ...

I spent about an hour on the phone with technical support to get the domain name ready to transfer ... with a very, very patient Steve F. with my current hosting company. My ear hurts and he now has stories to tell his coworkers and family about the crazy artist who was very, very technically challenged. Those aren't enough verys.

Events Page

On the site, you can:

• sign up for my email newsletter (one coming soon), 
• take a look around at the paintings and drawings -- go to the Works page for various collections
• check out info on Fall classes that start September 10 and 11 and 
• take a look at upcoming events.

What's coming soon:

• adding more images to the Works section in each collection
• more stories that go with the paintings. Those of you who have attended my exhibits know that I tell stories about most of my paintings in the exhibit on the wall tags. There are some on the site already. More to come.
• fixing the links page. That's a temporary storage facility for pages that I don't want to appear on my navigation bar. The links page will be a very good spot for connections to artists, art organizations and clubs, art supplies, other art blogs that might interest you.

What's coming later:

• bringing in the stories and more photos from my 100 Faces in 100 Days project from my blog posts from January 1 to April 10, 2011. That will take awhile... You can see all 100 alla prima portraits in the 100 Faces in 100 Days Collection on the Works page
• articles -- of course, I haven't written them yet ... but I'd like to add art career advice, painting and drawing tips, and articles on commissioning a portrait and building a collection. Etc. I'll also be publishing some of the articles that have appeared in the press about me ... (that should be easier)
• place to purchase my books -- note: plural. First, my "Close Up and Personal in Paint" book, available soon in hardcover or softcover and then before the year's out, my "100 Faces in 100 Days" book. I could also add a feature so that people could purchase paintings and drawings online ... but I'm not sure whether that would be all that useful. What do you think?
• we'll see ...

I can't wait to hear what you think of the new site. It's been fun and challenging working on it. I hope you find it easy to use. Any ideas are most welcome.

Exhibits and Events (Now look at this on the Events page at www.JillBanks.com)

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm.

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

Tail Chasing and the List

"Rapunzel" (formerly "Charmin"), oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

One of my regular activities each day is to read Fine Art Views, a daily online newsletter by various guest authors on the subject of art marketing, inspiration and art business. There's almost always some piece of information that I find useful.

A couple of days ago, Jack White wrote a post about three key ingredients to a successful art career: passion, planning and people. He offered some great ideas in all three categories ... particularly under the planning heading. One was super simple: the list of 10 top priorities for each day. Those things you need to do. Just typing those words reminds me how easy it is to get sidetracked.

Today is the deadline for applying to a juried exhibit and taking care of that consumed a good portion of my day, but I got something more out of it than that. To apply to this particular exhibit, I had to 1) select which two pieces to enter, 2) register with a new online jurying portal site, 5) retrieve a painting from the Artists' Atelier in Great Falls (where I share a studio with 13 other artists), 3) print out wall tags for the "Water" exhibit to bring to the Atelier when picking up the painting, 4) buy ice on the way -- my contribution to tonight's (Friday, July 13) reception, 6) sign the painting -- which then involved three hours of painting time because I saw ways to improve it, 7) photograph the painting, 8) resize both images to match the site's requirements, 9) upload them to the jurying site and 10) apply to the show. It's done but that's a lot of tail chasing for one day.

So, "Rapunzel" shown above was one of my entries. "Rapunzel"'s real name is Charmin ... and I'd painted this alla prima when she sat for my portrait class last term. I thought -- that all the painting needed was a signature, but it did need more paint in many areas ... and I wanted to really pump up the contrast to make her hair and skin in the light glow. The painting makes me happy. That's got to be a good thing.

Jack White would not agree with my entering juried shows -- something I've done a lot of over the years. His point about not entering is that there are other things that artists can do that benefit them in a lasting way that helps them find collectors rather than kudos. If instead of applying to a show, an artist reached out to a gallery, they could build a long-term relationship of continuing sales. He definitely has a point. Very few juried exhibits generate sales, even though there is some phenomenal work on view. For me, the benefits have been the chance to get to know outstanding artists throughout the country, receive recognition, and talk to leaders in the arts press and organizations. All of those benefits occur though, only if I take the time to attend events and push myself to make the most of every opportunity.

"Water, Water, Everywhere" Reception/Art Salon Tonight
In just a bit, I'm off to the reception for "Water, Water, Everywhere" -- the July/August exhibit for the Artists' Atelier at 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Artists from the area are invited to bring one of their pieces in to discuss. Our easels are set up and waiting for your work. I hope you can join us, Friday, July 13, 7-9pm for an informal salon and some treats.

Exhibits and Events

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception and Art Salon, Friday, July 13, 7-9pm.  
Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm.

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

Art Salon This Friday

Today's filled with meetings and a Dr.'s appointment, but that doesn't mean a boring day. We had a lunch meeting at the Artists' Atelier -- the studio I share with 13 (it depends who's counting) other artists at 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Meetings are a rarity there.

Artists Wanted: Come to the Reception and Bring a Piece of Your Art
One idea in particular caught my attention. This Friday, during the reception of the "Water, Water, Everywhere" exhibit in the gallery, artists are asked to bring in a piece that they are working on or would like to show for an informal salon -- to share their work, ask advice for problem areas (to anyone attending) or show off a little. Non-artists get to see what the Atelier and other area artists have been up to.

So here's the invite, kindly provided by Roberta (Bobbie) Beasley:

"Searching the Surf," digital photograph by studio mate Walt Lawrence on exhibit in the Atelier Gallery

WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE

GREAT FALLS ARTISTS’ ATELIER

1144 Walker Road, Suite G , Great Falls, VA 22066

JULY 3 – AUGUST 25, 2012

RECEPTION:  FRIDAY, JULY 13^TH, 7 – 9PM

INFORMAL SALON AT RECEPTION - ALL ARTISTS INVITED TO BRING

ONE OF THEIR ARTWORKS FOR DISCUSSION FRIDAY EVENING

For more information:  beasley.roberta@gmail.com  or #703.994.3165

One of studio mate Jennifer Duncan's pieces in the Water, Water, Everywhere Exhibit on view July 3- August 25

 

Summer leaves us separated and going our different ways. Come visit on Friday. What have you been up to this Summer? Why wait for the Fall to report...

Alabama's Coming to Me...

Mid-July was going to find me in Huntsville, Alabama painting a portrait of a super close friend of my parents' pastor, Joan Bell-Haynes (Face #12 of my 100 Faces in 100 Days project) and her husband Oscar Haynes (Face #13 of my 100 Faces project). For months now I've been trying to figure out how I take my portrait painting show on the road.

Instead, Lou Brown and his wife, Carolyn are coming here ... and they will be sitting in some nice location at my house -- bringing their portrait clothes and some belongings with them to include in the painting. You'll hear more ... and see some of the work in progress next week.

Of course, the reason for the change wasn't to come see me on my turf. It helps that their very close friends live near ... and that they were missing them and wanted the chance to visit. I've been around the four of them quite a bit and it's so much fun. So, next week ... in between painting sessions will be some very neat visiting times.

Exhibits and Events

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception and Art Salon, Friday, July 13, 7-9pm.  
Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm.

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

 August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

Secret Projects

Sneak Preview of Drawing Section of Web Site To Be...

The last group of days have been filled with pretty great painting sessions -- none of which can be revealed yet. One project is a present -- that you'll see it pretty soon. The other is major portrait project that's taking leaps forward. I'm excited about both.

Rebuilding the Web Site
In addition to painting, another activity is consuming every moment left in the day. I mentioned reworking my web site -- I'm involved in completely rebuilding it.  My current site was built using iWeb, a now discontinued Apple project. Although I didn't have to make a change (or at least not right now), the new site is going to be so much better. Better images, a lot more of my work on the site (like adding drawings that are too cumbersome to add currently), and easier navigation.

Andrew Wyeth's "The Kass," watercolor, was the stand-out for me at the Brandywine River Museum

Rebuilding the site, though, is like cleaning out a drawer. Tangents pop up everywhere. I add an image and want to tell you a story. Or I find out that some of the work needs to be professionally photographed. I've been going back through my 100 Faces in 100 Days project and that needs to be put on the site as well. I'm reminiscing about times spent with my 100 Faces volunteers or the adventures surrounding a particular painting. Anyway, it's exciting and I can't wait to unveil it. Coming soon.

Brandywine Again

Favorite painting of my visit to the Brandywine River Museum was Andrew Wyeth's watercolor "The Kass." The simplicity of the large abstract forms and gorgeous light blew me away. Wow. 

Back to work.

Exhibits and Events

July 7- August 31, Artists' Atelier, "Water, Water, Everywhere" group exhibit, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception, Friday, July 13, 7-9pm. Open Saturdays, noon - 4pm.


August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

"Water, Water, Everywhere"

Part of the Water Exhibit

Today, my studiomates and I hung a new show in the gallery ... "Water, Water, Everywhere."  There's a reception ... for whoever is willing to join us to chat and enjoy the evening ... on Friday, July 13, 7-9pm at the Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. It seems that in the Summer, everyone goes their separate ways  ... and it would be nice to just touch base, let us know what you're up to, enjoy the new exhibit, and hang out. We'd love to see you there!

For those of you that have spent a rough week with the aftermath of the East Coast storm ... there's electricity, aka air conditioning, lights and refreshments. Maybe some ice.

My three pieces for "Water, Water, Everywhere" are "London Times" -- the only rainy night in my two week stay in London last year, "Harbor Side Happy Hour" -- a piece started in plein air in Hilton Head, SC ... at Scott's Fish Market in Shelter Cove, and a small copy of a painting by Joaquin Sorolla of children on the beach.

The Book

I've had a few inquiries into my last post about my "Up Close and Personal in Paint: An Artist's Journey" book. A version of it will be available within the next 4-6 weeks for purchase. This isn't my "100 Faces in 100 Days" book that's still to come ... 
The "Up Close and Personal in Paint" book is primarily a "picture" book with 55 of my paintings. The paintings tell a story ... which they need to do since the text is sparse.

Working on My Web Site

Soon I'll be launching an entirely new web site that I'm so excited about. Each day I've been building a little more. What will be new is that you'll be able to get a much better picture of my available paintings and drawings. I'll be adding an email newsletter that you can easily subscribe to and get a monthly update on this active artist's life. It's going to give me the capability to post articles for artists and collectors -- offer books and paintings or prints or whatever for purchase online. So very cool.

Since I'll be changing hosts after a long time in one place, hiccups in service are possible. The blog will be unaffected, so if you happen to be going to www.JillBanks.com and it's not behaving properly, check back the next day. Usually, these issues are resolved in a couple of days. I'll warn you when the changeover is set to happen.

Exhibits and Events

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

"Up Close and Personal In Paint: An Artist's Journey"

"Up Close and Personal in Paint: An Artists Journey" book -- poor photo. Nice book. Arrived today.

... arrived today. About two weeks ago, I sent files off to blurb.com for a portfolio book/overview of my work with 55 paintings, and today it came. I was working away at the computer only to glance back at husband Randy who was checking it out -- without informing the author (me) of its presence.

It looks really good. Much better than my dismal photo lets on. I'll try to do a better job and replace it later.

How to Get a Bull to Sit for You

Jamie Wyeth (b. 1946), Angus, 1974.
Oil on canvas

I was going to retell this story from memory (because it's vivid), but found it on the Brandywine River Museum site. At the museum, I saw Jamie Wyeth's painting "Angus" and loved the story attached to its coming to be. For those of you who know me, I'm constantly trying to figure out how to capture subjects from life, whether they are willing or not. The Brandywine River Museum was a true treasure because so often I got to view the painting and "hear" the artist's voice and observations. This was one of the funny ones.

From their (Brandywine River Museum) press release dated March 2008:

"Moo" was painted from a very cooperative cow at Kidwell Farm in Herndon, VA. No bribes involved but I've been hard-pressed to find another equally great sitter myself. Yea, Moo. Private collection.

Jamie Wyeth (b. 1946) is renowned for his paintings of animals and animal portraits. He goes beyond the broad characteristics of the animals to capture individual differences, finding aspects not unlike those of people. Wyeth discovered the cattle featured in Angus in Pennsylvania Dutch country and purchased them because he knew he wanted to paint them. (JB: I never thought about buying a herd of cattle to paint them. Wonder what husband Randy would have to say about that.)

Angus depicts a herd of black Angus cattle staring menacingly from the canvas. In an interview about the painting, Wyeth said "They were wonderful models once I figured out a system for keeping their attention. My farmer feeds them out of a truck, and I would go out into the field with my easel and set it up inside the truck. All the cattle would come around and look right up at me; every half hour I kicked out a bale of hay to keep them there.

"They all had numbers around the necks and #78 was nuts she'd go right after you and was much more dangerous than a bull. One day, I was drawing in the field, totally lost in thought, and I all of a sudden felt this hot breath on the back of my neck. I turned my head around slowly and all I could see was #78's tag. I flew over the fence andthe painting was finished."


Pretty good idea, huh?

Exhibits and Events

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

Web: www.jillbanks.com
 Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Email
Phone: 703.403.7435

Exhibits and Events

August, Visiting Resident Studio Artist, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA, Studio #333

August 1-10, "Quiet" in Salmagundi Club's Annual Photography and Graphics Exhibition held at Denise Bibro Fine Art, Chelsea, NYC.

Sunday, October 14, MPA Artfest Outdoor Juried Arts Festival, McLean Central Park, McLean, VA

Saturday and Sunday, October 20&21, Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, visit artists in their studios throughout Great Falls on a self-guided tour. I’ll be at the Artists’ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

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