American Women Artists, Tucson Time

"Desert Garden," oil, 12"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

These few days in Arizona -- enjoying activities related to the American Women Artists Juried Exhibition -- have been fantastic. Randy is probably tired of hearing me rave about this group of highly accomplished artists. After painting at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum yesterday morning, the two of us took a look at the show in the gallery by the Signature and Master Signature members -- "Visions of the Southwest" (on exhibit November 3 to January 6) -- and it is phenomenal. Comparable to the best I've seen anywhere. I'm still raving about the juried exhibition as well. As impressive as all the artwork is, the people I've met are even more so. Open, happy to share, surprisingly non-competitive, comfortable with what they've accomplished and working to help others with a leg up.

Late afternoon was spent plein air painting at the San Xavier Mission. Two very different locations with lunch and a spectacular drive through the mountains inbetween. The Mission was challenging to paint. The Arizonan sun turned the facade into an ever-changing kaleidoscope of colors that I tried to chase with a very limited palette. In addition we walked around a big circle looking for a good view that also provided scarce shade. I found it, but the search stole a half an hour.

There are so many favorite times of this trip. One (sort of) non-art-related highlight was dinner at Elvira's in Tubac. Such a romantic, beautifully lit, soft, whimsical place. A duo performed all of us lucky enough to be there that evening. A funny note is that when we walked to our table, the couple next to us asked how the painting turned out. They had passed by while I was painting "Purple Mountain Majesty."

Now we're back home. Time to get ready for the week ahead.

"Sunflowers and Gladioli"

"Sunflowers and Gladioli" Off to Their New Home
While I was away, collectors took home "Sunflowers and Gladioli" -- a still life packed with meaning for me and for them. It's always interesting (and heart-warming) to hear why/how people feel connected to a piece.

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

Events and Exhibits
Atelier Open Hours, Wednesdays and Saturdays, noon to 4pm, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066

October 2 through November 30, Greenberry's Coffee & Tea, 6839 Redmond Drive, McLean, VA. Solo show of seven oil paintings celebrating coffee, friends and family and food. 

 

American Women Artists 15th Annual National Juried Exhibition, November 2-25, K Newby Gallery and Sculpture Garden, Tubac, Arizona. "Honey Bunny" is one of 60 artworks chosen from around the country. 

Allied Artists of America 99th Annual Exhibition, November 9-18, National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park, NYC

More events are listed on my web site: www.JillBanks.com