Painting in Herndon and Finding Some Help

My painting on the easel with my two models by its side

Today and tomorrow it's Paint Herndon! (Virginia) time ... with plein air artists setting up easels all over town. Tomorrow afternoon (Saturday, September 1) we turn in our stamped (on the back ) canvases and papers at 3:30pm for judging and exhibition.

I spent all afternoon working on this scene of the street in front of Great Harvest Bread. Greg and his dog pal Kelsey had sat on the bench before coming over to chat ... and then another visitor and I convinced the them to sit back down and model for me. It's certainly not a detailed view of them ... but it was pretty wonderful they volunteered.  Pretty cool.

There were many people stopping to chat ... some taking my picture (sitting on the ground on the sidewalk all day) -- to show what neat things are happening around the town. I loved being part of that.

One of the things I find interesting about making art in the public is how appreciative people of all ages are that you are there. They praise the painting, like to talk, and are just generally open to good exchanges. I get a thumbs up a lot.

Fun day. I'll see what tomorrow brings. A photo of this painting will probably be here tomorrow night.


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

Events and Exhibits

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

 

Bye to the Torpedo Factory

My wall in Studio #333

Today is my last day at the Torpedo Factory as a guest artist. Tomorrow (Friday) was going to be packing day, but I've got some other plans for it.

I'll miss the comraderie of other Torpedo Factory artists ... and that of my month of visitors. Hopefully, many will visit at the Artists' Atelier, the studio I share with 13 other artists at 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.

I made some partial updates to my web site's event page. The Fall is always busy. Lots of art events to come.

Bye, Studio #333.

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

Events and Exhibits

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

 

The Fun of Paintings Finding New Homes

"Merry Go Round" looking quite spectacular there

From my experience, the relationship between owners of paintings and the painter (and painting) is a wonderful bond.

I realize that what is being purchased is going to make a constant, lifelong, daily impact. You might think that's an exaggeration.

Not from what I've heard and experienced.

I know how important art is to me. It brings a smile to my face. New interest every day. It almost lives and breathes. It makes me hang out wherever it happens to be.

Yesterday and today, I made some truly great people (who I love) happy because a wonderful piece found a wonderful new home.

"Merry Go Round" is in a new, spectacular, prime location. She's visited regularly.

I love that she's there. I love that her owners are even happier than normal. Helping make that happen is a big deal.

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

Events and Exhibits
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. 
I'll be in the studio on Thursday, August 30, 2-9pm. Friday, August 31 is the real move-out day, times indefinite.
Other events/times will be listed on my event page on my new web site. I hope to see you there!

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

"Grazing On Buttercups" Version II

"Grazing On Buttercups," oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

In the Spring, I spent many hours down a hill, working on capturing horses on Francie's farm as they enjoyed a late afternoon snack of buttercups. Believing the saying the "grass is always greener on the other side," my subjects kept trying out different locations -- a test for the painter.

As happy as I was with that plein air adventure and the results ... given my on-the-move subjects ... today it was fun to return to "Grazing On Buttercups" with some still photos to help me finish. Those photos were used very loosely -- lots of artistic license and memories of that afternoon in the field are at play here.

Plus, I was using a new, synthetic hair flat brush which made moving around the paint on a smooth surface fun and angst free. My photo doesn't show it ... but really different brushstrokes were the result.

See the May 3, 2012 post from my first day of painting.  And, I'll be adding "Grazing on Buttercups" to my web site at www.JillBanks.com, go to the Animals, Birds and Wildlife Collection under Works.


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

Events and Exhibits


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. 
I'll be in the studio on Thursday, August 30, 2-9pm. Friday, August 31 is the real move-out day, times indefinite.
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. 

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

"Sunflowers in My Studio II" Painting Almost Done

"Sunflowers in My Studio II" work in progress, oil, 30"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Mondays are quieter days at the Torpedo Factory. At least this one was ... which afforded me the opportunity to work quite a bit on this painting, now renamed "Sunflowers in My Studio II."

This piece transitioned between my home studio ... where it started ... to Studio #333 where I was trying to figure out what work would come from that new space.

One of my struggles for this month was that I was uncomfortable there working from photos on my laptop (if I do work from photos they are shown on a large screen display that can adjust from horizontal to vertical as necessary) and the lighting was actually too strong to control when working from life. I decided to deal with too much light and concentrated on still lifes ... and my one portrait in progress of Jenny. It's actually just different and it's up to me how I paint the scene.

Only two days left there and most of those will be consumed with moving out. This is a lot worse than having to check under the bed for socks when departing a hotel stay. My stuff is now everywhere ... and there's a lot of it.

Visitors today were from: the DC area, Vietnam, Guatemala, Australia, India, California, Florida, and New Jersey.

Events and Exhibits

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. 
Only two days left there:
Thursday, August 30, 2-9pm
Friday, August 31, noon-6pm
Other events/times will be listed on my event page on my new web site. I hope to see you there!

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

Day Two, Painting Jenny

Jenny Jusell, day two, oil, 30"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Very quick post ... and hopefully I can add more another night.

Today was day two, demo day at the Torpedo Factory. Lots of fun with lots of visitors. Thanks for coming!

Three days left there in Studio #333: Monday, Thursday and Friday. Then it's back to the Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. I hope to see you there!

Thanks, Mom ... again for your stellar job of welcoming folks into the studio.

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

Events and Exhibits

Guests at the demo

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. 
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. 

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

"Sunday in the Park" Painting Continued

"Sunday in the Park" work in progress, oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Primary colors. Fewer visitors today meant more time spent painting at the Torpedo Factory's Studio #333 -- and I took back up a piece started plein air at McLean Central Park's playground. The dad at the swings still needs some refinement, but I like the girl on the rocking pony on the right.

I believe everyone is taking a final weeks vacation at the beach or out there shopping for school supplies. There weren't too many milling around my temporary studio in Alexandria, VA.

See my original post for an earlier view of "Sunday in the Park."

Tomorrow (Saturday, August 25), the Torpedo Factory closes one hour early for an event. So, if you're coming to see me, my hours will be noon-5pm there. The address: 105 N. Union Street, Studio #333, Alexandria, VA.

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

Events and Exhibits

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. 
Still life painting demo: Sunday, August 12, 1 to 5pm
Portrait painting demos: August 19 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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. 

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

"Rainbow" Peacock Painting on the Farm

Close up of "Rainbow," oil, 12"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

This afternoon, it was back to Kidwell Farm (part of Frying Pan Park, Herndon, VA) for some very quick painting, third round to finish up this painting started over six months ago. This is also the third time this particular peacock has been uncooperative as a subject -- going around back of his "house" when I was in front, and vice versa. If he was in view, his head was buried in feather cleaning. Or he was facing the opposite direction. Little was accomplished this outing other than a good color check. Although there were plenty of colors to check.

Better photo to replace this one tomorrow, I hope.

You can see more feathered and furry friend paintings in the Animal Collection on my web site: www.JillBanks.com.  I hope to get around to some more updates to the site soon. The commute to the Torpedo Factory and working there five days a week has wreaked havoc on all those other tasks that accompany life and art business stuff.

"Cabs in NYC" going to new home

Only seven more days at the Torpedo Factory's Studio #333 (105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA). You can see me there this Thursday through Monday and then Thursday or Friday next week. Although if you wait until Friday, August 31 ... I'll have moved out some of the work on view. See hours below.

"Cabs in NYC" was purchased by someone who has wanted it since first seeing it ... quite awhile ago. That painting has had many potential buyers ... and almost went off to a different home yesterday.

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

Events and Exhibits

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. 
Still life painting demo: Sunday, August 12, 1 to 5pm
Portrait painting demos: August 19 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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. 

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

Painting Jenny at the Torpedo Factory

Jenny Jusell, day one, oil, 30"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

There must be a better title for today's post ... but my brain is not finding it.

I asked Jenny Jusell, a visitor to Studio #333 earlier this week, if she'd be interested in sitting for a portrait painting demonstration planned for today -- and to sit again next Sunday as well. Happily, she agreed and took on the role of not only being my model, but also working on tempting people into the studio because we had chairs and chocolate.

My top agent, my Mom, managed to bring plenty of people into the studio -- telling them the stories I would have shared if my energies weren't tied up in painting. Jenny had the best view of her ... but many times I'd look back with eight to ten people of all ages smiling and listening to Mom.  She sure spread enthusiasm to anyone slightly receptive.

Two Jennys and me

Jenny, too was having a great time sitting and seeing the painting progress over the four-hour session. Each break, she'd take plenty of photos of it ... and in the end of day one, passing by the portrait ... she said "I'm sure going to miss me." She'll be back next Sunday, August 26, 1-5pm for me to work toward finishing. Come and watch. It's free. You're bound to be entertained by at least one of us.

Thanks to all of you who stopped by ... and super thanks to Mom and Jenny.

And, Happy Birthday to son Sam!

"Ride 'Em Cowgirl" is complete ... except for my signature and a frame. To come soon.

"Ride 'Em Cowgirl," oil, 30"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

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

Events and Exhibits

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. 
Still life painting demo: Sunday, August 12, 1 to 5pm
Portrait painting demos: August 19 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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. 

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

The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From the Tree

"An Apple Arrangement," oil, 24"h x 30"w, ©Jill Banks 2009

Today's visitors included my mom and dad ... and their pastor Joan Bell-Haynes and her husband, Oscar. These are four wonderful people to be around ... and they filled Studio #333 at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria, VA with good cheer.

On that Apple Thing

I scattered around five chairs in the narrow studio -- working to encourage my dad, with his recent back surgery and the rest of the gang to sit, talk and enjoy themselves. Now it was the five of us realizing what being behind the glass in the studio was like. People would look in and walk by -- something that happens quite a bit there. I'm sort of adapting to that ... and sort of not.

"Ride 'Em Cowgirl" work in progress, day 4

It was driving my mom nuts. She was trying to figure out how to be there and still bring people into the studio at the same time. I try to figure out how to paint, and let people know they are absolutely welcome to come in. Both of our antics are pretty funny, only I just get to look at hers. While we were talking, Mom was standing looking at my paintings so that would lead to someone else coming in. She's my top agent, no contest.

For all of that hoping that each person walks through the studio door, their view through the window is telling of my work. Those truly interested make it in and have loved seeing my art and talking to me. I even have regulars -- with my short stay. Another joy. There are plenty.

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

Events and Exhibits

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. 
Still life painting demo: Sunday, August 12, 1 to 5pm
Portrait painting demos: August 19 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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. 

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

You're Not Disturbing Me

"Ride 'Em Cowgirl" work in progress day two, oil, ©Jill Banks 2012

During yesterday's hours at the Torpedo Factory (105 N. Union Street, Studio #333, Alexandria, VA -- where I'm a guest artist for the month of August), a nice visitor named Alan stepped through the doors of my studio, but not until after another Art Center artist announced "Come on in. We're not charging an admittance fee today." In Alan walked, smiling. I'd never have come up with such a fine line.

He asked me if we were able to create or was it like trying to work in a fishbowl. I admitted that time spent there wasn't as intensely productive as would be possible in the quiet of my own studio ... but the main point of being there was to have a chance to share my work (and enthusiasm for it) with visitors. Most of the time, people peer through the window and move on, I think because they are worried about disturbing me. Perhaps I should get some t-shirts printed with "You're Not Disturbing Me. I Want You To Talk to Me." Something like that.

Heart to Heart
I didn't get a whole lot of painting done -- but that was primarily from having a really touching conversation with another artist who happened upon my studio. Our talk reminded me of thoughts shared with so many of my sitters during last year's 100 Faces in 100 Days project. My conclusion then, as it is now, is that we can sure help each other out along the way if we're just open to talking, listening, sharing some of those rough spots in our lives.

Come On In
Alan made a sudden exit so he wouldn't hold up his group, but then popped back in again to say a  sincere "I just wanted to say Thank You. Your work is terrific." His doing that made me feel terrific.

If you're visiting the Torpedo Factory this month -- come on into the studio. I want to meet you and you'll make my day. I might just brighten yours, too.

I'm there Thursday through  Monday throughout the month. Check specific hours below or on my web site's Events page.

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

Events and Exhibits

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. 
Still life painting demo: Sunday, August 12, 1 to 5pm
Portrait painting demos: August 19 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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. 

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

"Ride 'Em Cowgirl" Painting in Progress

"Ride 'Em Cowgirl" work in progress, oil, 30"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Last night, we "raided" my Mom and Dad's condo for gems for today's still life demo. Mom has an extensive doll collection ... and has been sending me photos from her iPhone of potential still life subjects to bring to the Torpedo Factory studio. Hunger sped up the decision-making process, but that was just as well. I think this is a winner.

Calling today a demo is a stretch. The Torpedo Factory is far enough away from my supporters to bring too many to Alexandria. Two of my 100 Faces showed up which was great! People enjoyed watching from the window and some did occupy the chairs for a little while. And, I have a few regular fans just from my August stay so far who visited on and off. A family from Burke did watch as I was just getting started, then were stunned after visiting other studios for ten minutes ... that the painting was already emerging. That was fun.

And, I enjoyed creating this from a blank canvas. Tomorrow, continuing on with "Ride 'Em Cowgirl" will be the project of the day. Spokes.

My photo is not too great ... must have been in too big a hurry at quitting time.

See the Still Life gallery on my web site for more.

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

Events and Exhibits

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. 
Still life painting demo: Sunday, August 12, 1 to 5pm
Portrait painting demos: August 19 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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. 

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

Still Life Demo Tomorrow at the Torpedo Factory

Today's progress on "Studio 333 and Glads," oil, 24"h x 18"w

Quick post to leave time for me to figure out exactly what I'll be painting ... and to get some dinner.

Tomorrow (Sunday, August 12) from 1-5pm, check in on a free painting demonstration in Studio #333 at the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. Stay as long as you like. I'd love to see you there. It'll be fun!

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

Events and Exhibits

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. 
Still life painting demo: Sunday, August 12, 1 to 5pm
Portrait painting demos: August 19 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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. 

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

Studio Nesting

Settling In

"Studio #333 and White Glads" work in progress, oil, 24"h x 18"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Today was the start of being comfortable in my temporary studio space in the Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, VA. I regained my painting "legs" in this new space ... with a few small changes.

Turning the easel around so sunlight from the window is behind me, not blinding from in front, made a huge difference. Now I can see visitors come in, as well. Nicer for them and me.

Going Shopping/New Brushes. Right downstairs from my studio is a small, but very well stocked art supply store. That's proving to be costly -- but I'm loving it. During my home studio days, I was complaining about brushes. Bristle brushes move paint around really well on rough surfaces, but more often over the past year or two, I've been working on smooth surfaces -- especially on portrait commissions. Using a bristle brush on a smooth surface -- the paint slides off. So, today I bought a variety of softer brushes in different shapes and had fun! My start on "Studio #333 and White Glads" is done almost entirely with a flat, large synthetic hair brush on a very smooth canvas. I may be in for trouble tomorrow ... but it sure made painting today a blast. Materials matter.

Starting something new. Today's painting places me in Studio #333 at this particular time. I'm fitting into someone else's space -- Beverly Ryan's -- and that's her more abstract work on the wall behind the gladioli. The vase of flowers is from last night's reception/opening. Normally, flowers would have been arranged by my dad who is recovering (well) from back surgery -- and not yet ready for flower duty. The Pellegrino water and meringue cookies in a bowl made by Great Falls Studios potter Laura Nichols are from the reception ... and home as well. On the desktop is my painting "Elizabeth" -- a work that is probably more classical than any other I have on view.  One wall of studio is mainly filled with my work. "Elizabeth" resides in front of the wall that is Beverly's main space. This painting -- in progress -- speaks to that juxtaposition.

Painting felt good. I was at ease. Today was filled with memorable visitors including two art teachers, a four-month old baby who made the most wonderful faces at me, a 94-year-old man who I hope goes back home and pulls out his paints, families, and two young ladies (one from Spain) who looked over every inch of Beverly and my paintings because as one said -- "artists pour their heart and soul into every inch of what they create, so I should at least look carefully."  It was a very good day.

Events and Exhibits

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 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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. 

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

News From The Easel: Did You Get It?

Issue #1: News From the Easel, read more

If something like what's to the right arrived in your mailbox today, you are currently on my email list for art news and events. Yea! Thank you! If you didn't get it, want to read it or subscribe to my monthly (or so) art news, go here.

Big, Big Oops
A few weeks ago, inadvertently, my finger must have hit delete on the email mailing list I've been gathering for years -- from all of you who asked to be kept informed of art news, classes, etc. I lost you! I want you back.

To get back on the list, either subscribe via my web site or send me an email to tell me you'd like to be added. Thank you.

What's in This Issue
Since it's the first, I've included more than I plan to in the future. But you'll see info on:

• My August stay at the Torpedo Factory (Reception is tomorrow night, Thursday, August 9, 6-9pm, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA)
• News on "Honey Bunny" and "The Poker Club"
• Recent paintings
• Lou and Carolyn Brown's Portrait Visit
• "The Brogue Bar" Birthday Surprise

In later issues, expect just one major art-related story exclusive to the newsletter.

Are You Subscribed to This Blog?
It's easy, and you'll get the latest news right in your mailbox. Sign up at jillbanks.blogspot.com.

I hope to see you in Studio #333 tomorrow ... or sometime soon. Lots planned. I enjoyed visits on Monday from studiomate Jennifer Duncan, Great Falls Studios artist Coty Dickson and fellow Art League artist Vicki Blum ... among all the day's other guests. They approved and it was great to see them!

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


Events and Exhibits

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 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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

"Hudson River Morn" in Progress at the Torpedo Factory

"Hudson River Morn" work in progress, oil, 40"h x 30"w , ©Jill Banks 2012

Past time to post ... but this is what I was working on yesterday at the Torpedo Factory. Today was portrait commission day in my home studio.

I hope you can join me on Thursday night for the Second Thursday Reception at the Torpedo Factory, 6-9pm, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA. I'll be hanging out in Studio #333 hoping you'll come by to visit.

Also, since the Art League Gallery is right downstairs in the Torpedo Factory, you can see my painting, "London Times" that was accepted into this month's 'Scapes (International Landscape) exhibit. Same time for the reception there.

The oil sketch for "Hudson River Morn" was painted in my NYC hotel room's shower this past Spring. The sketch is my main visual source for this painting. I want to capture my impressions from the stay ... the river at sunrise. This feels right.

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

"London Times," oil, 18"x24" on view in the 'Scapes exhibit this month

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 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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

Today at the Torpedo Factory

"Tools of the Trade" work in progress, oil, 30"h x 24"w, Jill Banks 2012

Today brought lots of visitors ... all day long. Two very enthusiastic young girls loved looking at my paints and painting ... one said she just loved the way I paint ... as mom looked on from afar. I think they would have stayed there forever.

Two of my visitors were here for the 70th Reunion of the Guadalcanal Campaign -- here with their fathers.

My foreign visitors came from Ukraine, France, Australia and Holland.

U.S. visitors came from Florida, New Jersey, Maryland, West Virginia, Colorado, California.

Two interesting portrait demo prospects came at the end of the day. They would be great subjects ... but aren't local and will be gone before the demos. The young woman looked very Bohemian with a guitar by her side. Maybe I'll approach some of the street musicians.

I'm not getting much painting in ... but some. That's my "Hudson River Morn" painting in progress behind "Tools of the Trade."  I may move on to working on the NYC painting tomorrow ... as a break.

Tomorrow's a long day. 10am-5pm at the Torpedo Factory, then receiving for the Art League's 'Scapes show tomorrow night. It's doubtful that I'll be in a typing mood at the end of that.

I'm enjoying my days at the Torpedo Factory. I'm not sure that's getting across. The commute squeezes time away from reflection on the many great parts of the day. But, they are there.

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 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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

Torpedo Factory Day

"Reflections," oil, 16"h x 20"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

This was my first Saturday at my post (Studio #333) at the Torpedo Factory (105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA) ... and the day felt a bit like a wild ride. Lots of interesting conversations, enthusiastic visitors, people from all sorts of places (Russia, Germany, South Africa, throughout the U.S.), most just there for the day.

I was worried when first coming into the Arts Center seeing a sign that the Factory was closing at 5pm today. (I've been posting 6pm.) Turns out there is a wedding in there tonight. So ... sometimes there are events that change dates and times. I won't always know those in advance. Tomorrow I'll try to get a calendar for the month.

"Reflections" was done awhile ago ... but yesterday I received a CD with photos of a lot of my work from Greg Staley. This is the first time that I've been able to post a good photo ... and there was no time to snap a shot of the studio or goings on for today.  I was immersed in more conversations than paint.

While lots of people walk right past Studio #333 in search of something else, those who come in are sure engaged, happy to be there, and interested in my work. "Tranquility" is the biggest draw. From my visitors' commentary, I gather that the Torpedo Factory isn't filled with portraiture. I've also been working on and off on the Sunflowers painting. When I look back behind me, there will be a small group watching from right outside the door. It's easier to watch from inside the studio.

Oh, and now I'll be doing three demos  ... on the next three Sundays. On the 12th will be a still life painting demo. On the 19th and 26th, I'll paint a portrait. The search is still on for my model, but today might have uncovered a very good prospect.

An author who stepped in my studio, Gene Parola, would have been hired (great face and interesting character) but he returns to Hawaii tomorrow. I would have loved spending some time discovering more about him.

Tomorrow's hours at the Torpedo Factory (for me) are noon to 6pm.

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 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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

Sunflowers In The Studio

"Tools of the Trade" work in progress, oil, 30"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Quick Post ... long day.  I continued painting sunflowers with my painting stuff ... just with a change of venue to the Torpedo Factory Studio #333. (And a change of light, flowers, surface, ...)

Main news is that my dad had back surgery today that went very well. He'll be returning home from the hospital tomorrow to start the recovery work. Big, big, big, big relief.

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 and August 26, 1 to 5pm.
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

"Honey Bunny" News

"Honey Bunny," oil, 24"h x 18"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

American Women Artists Annual Exhibition ... the Bunny Is In!

Well, this is pretty exciting.

Many of the juried exhibits I enter work with www.JuriedArtServices.com to present photos of artists' work to the jurors. I put up portfolios to the site, get notified of Calls for Art, and have a control panel to manage applications and check results.

Today there is a green check mark (that's good) next to my entry "Honey Bunny" for the American Women Artists Juried National Members Exhibit being held at K. Newby Gallery + Sculpture Garden, November 2 to November 25, 2012 in Tubac, AZ. The jurors select around 60 paintings from entrants around the country. Most exhibits are much larger generally making the odds of acceptance better. I'm happy to have made the cut. Hooray!

I was excited about that green check and it does a lot to offset red x's. Randy mistakenly sent my green check to the archive ... so now it's disappeared from the application page. It's a visual thing.

Tomorrow I'll be painting at the Torpedo Factory, Studio #333, 2-9pm. That's the plan. If you're making the trek on one of my scheduled days, check my blog for any updates. Thanks!

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