Saturday, January 31, 2015

Painting Payton

Payton with Me ... End of Demo at ArtSpace Herndon, January 31, 2015. She's the one in the tutu.
What a joy today!

Getting Started. I'm guessing this isn't the best view. I'm laying in the darks in brown and blue on an ochre ground
Thanks to Payton, her mom Lauren, grandmother Meg ... all who attended, Randy, Mom & Dad and Les at Herndon ArtSpace.

It was iPad entertainment needed toward the end for Payton
I'll do my best to post photos ... more to come, probably past when this might show up in your (subscribers) mailbox so check back at jillbanks.blogspot.com -- where they look better anyway.  Tomorrow will come my photo of the painting. My camera is indeed on the blitz. Fuzzy photos anyone? These are all from various iPhones.

Really, more to come! I don't want you to miss out on the day.


Events and Exhibits
  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA. ArtSpace Gallery Hours are:
    Monday: Closed
    Tuesday thru Thursday: 10am to 2pm
    Friday through Saturday: 10am to 5pm
    Sunday: 1pm to 5pm
    ArtSpace Herndon is closed due to inclement weather whenever Fairfax County cancels school.
    Payton's view
    If in doubt, you can contact the gallery at http://www.artspaceherndon.com/  or call:
    703-956-6590.
    RSVP for painting demo.
  • About mid-point in the demo.   Good view of our super model!
    February: The Art of Romance, Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, February 6, 6:30pm to 9:00pm.  Featuring a guest jewelry artist, chocolates, wine, hors d'oeuvres and a beautiful art party.  In the gallery and around my studio, still lifes with lots of flowers, an indoor picnic, cozy interiors.   See the show through the month of February, Wednesdays and Saturdays, noon to 4pm.
    June 5-7: Rittenhouse Square: The Original Art Show, Philadelphia, PA. 
    June 29-July 5: Telluride Plein Air, Telluride, CO.  Juried as one of 32 artists who will spend the week painting this very cool town lined with Victorian houses, bustling street against a gorgeous mountainous backdrop.
    July 11-12: Wickford Art Festival, Wickford, RI.
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat.,
    12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Painting a Ballerina: Draw Along Saturday, January 31 at ArtSpace Herndon

"Mouse Tale," oil, 24"h x 12"w, ©Jill Banks 2015
I'm betting that you'll have almost as much fun as I will on Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm in the gallery at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA -- where my solo exhibition, "Warm Observations: People and Places" of 48 original oils is on view through February 22.

What's in store? You're invited to sketch along (or just sit and enjoy the show) as I capture on canvas an unbelievably cute 9-year-old ballerina.

I've been trying to figure out who our subject would be for weeks now, and with Saturday right around the corner ... phew, serendipity helped out once again.

Yesterday, after still life class -- I went to deliver "New York Yellow and Blues" to the painting's new, happy owner. After approving the spot chosen for the painting, Meg and I were talking about the art "gene" -- and she asked me where I taught classes -- to assist her relatives who could create more than stick figures.  The "gene" had escaped Meg but her daughter, Lauren, had it.  Since my classes are full ... and the demo this Saturday is free and open to the public, I encouraged Meg to get Lauren to attend. Then, somehow it came up that Meg's 9-year-old granddaughter is a ballet dancer. That's just the kind of inspiration I was looking for ... and by last night, yes, the 9 year old ballerina would LOVE to pose for the demo.  Photos of her make me beam.  We are in for a special day!

So, join the fun. You'll be able to view the paintings in my solo exhibition "Warm Observations: People and Places" that surround us in the gallery. If you don't want to sketch, but want to watch -- that's great too.

"Mouse Tale" was painted today. Didn't have much to do with the theme of the post but couldn't leave you without a picture.

More Good News: Rittenhouse Square
The 2015 calendar is filling with another acceptance this week. First, being accepted to Telluride Plein Air for a week of painting in a juried competition in beautiful Telluride, CO from June 29 to July 5 ... and then today, the Rittenhouse Square Art Show sent notice that I've been accepted to exhibit in Philadelphia, PA for three days, June 5 to June 7. 

Come to the free painting demonstration in the gallery on Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.   RSVP for painting demo.

ArtSpace Gallery Hours are:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday thru Thursday: 10am to 2pm
Friday through Saturday: 10am to 5pm
Sunday: 1pm to 5pm


ArtSpace Herndon is closed due to inclement weather whenever Fairfax County cancels school.
If in doubt, you can contact the gallery at http://www.artspaceherndon.com/  or call:
703-956-6590.

Events and Exhibits
  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm. RSVP for painting demo.
  • February: The Art of Romance, Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, February 6, 6:30pm to 9:00pm.  Featuring a guest jewelry artist, chocolates, wine, hors d'oeuvres and a beautiful art party.  In the gallery and around my studio, still lifes with lots of flowers, an indoor picnic, cozy interiors.   See the show through the month of February, Wednesdays and Saturdays, noon to 4pm.

    June 5-7: Rittenhouse Square: The Original Art Show, Philadelphia, PA. 
    June 29-July 5: Telluride Plein Air, Telluride, CO.  Juried as one of 32 artists who will spend the week painting this very cool town lined with Victorian houses, bustling street against a gorgeous mountainous backdrop.
    July 11-12: Wickford Art Festival, Wickford, RI.

  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat.,
    12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel


Sunday, January 25, 2015

"Gina" First Day of Portrait Class Demo

"Gina," oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2015
This has to be a short post -- but Gina, waitress at the Old Brogue Irish Pub in Great Falls sat today for first my demo and then for the class to paint and/or draw.

Great subject. Great class!

I worked on this for about 45 minutes this evening after class. The demo was too short!!

Solo Show at ArtSpace Through Feb. 22
I do hope that all of you able to go see my "Warm Observations: People and Places" exhibit, take the opportunity to go.  As one visitor commented in an email, "photos of the paintings don't do them justice." Seeing in person is so much better! The show continues until February 22 ... and I will be giving a free painting demonstration in the gallery on Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm.  (Feel free to visit before then and come back for the demo.) RSVP for painting demo.

ArtSpace Gallery Hours are:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday thru Thursday: 10am to 2pm
Friday through Saturday: 10am to 5pm
Sunday: 1pm to 5pm



ArtSpace Herndon is closed due to inclement weather whenever Fairfax County cancels school.
If in doubt, you can contact the gallery at http://www.artspaceherndon.com/  or call:
703-956-6590.

Events and Exhibits
  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great
    Falls, VA.
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat.,
    12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Pre-Demo Portrait Practice

"Alla Prima Portrait," oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2015
Looking for a model today before tomorrow (Sunday's) first day of portrait class demo, it dawned on me (with husband Randy's help -- probably because he rightly assumed his face was a strong possibility) that Saturday nights were Open Life sessions (4 to 7pm for the long pose) at the McLean Community Center (in McLean, VA).  See mpaart.org for more info. I headed over and Randy was spared being my go to model.

Tomorrow is going to be fun.  Gina is our model and I'll do a fairly quick demo before sending the class to their easels. I have a lot of new students who have been asked to bring their sense of humor along with a willingness to learn and a good dose of patience.  Armed with that, they'll survive.

Solo Show at ArtSpace Through Feb. 22
I do hope that all of you able to go see my "Warm Observations: People and Places" exhibit, take the opportunity to go.  As one visitor commented in an email, "photos of the paintings don't do them justice." Seeing in person is so much better! The show continues until February 22 ... and I will be giving a free painting demonstration in the gallery on Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm.  (Feel free to visit before then and come back for the demo.) RSVP for painting demo.

ArtSpace Gallery Hours are:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday thru Thursday: 10am to 2pm
Friday through Saturday: 10am to 5pm
Sunday: 1pm to 5pm


ArtSpace Herndon is closed due to inclement weather whenever Fairfax County cancels school.
If in doubt, you can contact the gallery at http://www.artspaceherndon.com/  or call:
703-956-6590.

Events and Exhibits
  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great
    Falls, VA.
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat.,
    12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel

Friday, January 23, 2015

I'm In, I'm In, I'm In! Telluride Plein Air

"Estes Park," oil, 8"h x 10"w, ©Jill Banks 2013 -- painted plein air during a family reunion in Estes Park. Gorgeous, changing view and the only Colorado painting I have to post ... that sort of fits the theme here.

"Antiques on Middle Street," oil, 16"h x 12"w, painted plein air, sold
Yippee!!!!!

You probably can't tell I'm excited.

(So well hidden.)

This morning, I received my "Congratulations" letter to join the 25 to 30 artists selected for Telluride Plein Air, one of the nation's most prestigious plein air events. Yea!!! Wow.

Telluride Plein Air is a paint the place juried competition taking place in the gorgeous town of Telluride, Colorado, June 27 to July 5, 2015 ... and that's where I'll be, capturing Victorian homes against the backdrop of mountains, EXACTLY my cup of tea.

Having my painting "Piemonte Lunch" on the cover of élan led to new collectors
"Each summer, the Sheridan Arts Foundation host 25-30 nationally renowned Plein Air artists in beautiful Telluride, Colorado." Those are their words, not mine. Cool beans.

I've been so intrigued with this place, seeing it pop up in plein air paintings of other artists, watching an episode of "House Hunters" in which a family selected a historic home there.  It's going to be so much fun to just be there ... and then to be painting it! I may go into happy overload.

To apply to Telluride, artists submitted three to five images and a bio/resume with past art shows and awards.  One of the pieces I submitted was "Antiques on Middle Street," the painting created last summer of the next door neighbor of the Inn at Little Washington (VA). "Antiques on Middle Street" is also one of the 48 paintings currently hanging in my "Warm Observations: People and Places" Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA.  It is also the first painting purchased from the show ... by new collectors who had seen "Piemonte Lunch" on the cover of élan Magazine this month. Since that piece was previously purchased, it was nice to be able to have such a great show/great gallery to point them to for art shopping.

I love "Antiques on Middle Street." It's as happy to look at as a vase of sunflowers ... or peonies. I'm very glad it found a new home.

(For any of you wishing you were the purchasers of "Antiques on Middle Street," there is another painting created the same day in Washington VA in my "Warm Observations" exhibit.  Take a look at "Tavern Shops.")

"Circle of Truth," oil, 8"h x 10"w, ©Jill Banks 2014, purchased by a wonderful friend, sold
It's been a day full of good news.  Another favorite piece in the show "Circle of Truth," a nocturne painted from my deck in our former home in Reston, VA was purchased this afternoon by a favorite person, Joan Bell-Haynes, friend and my parents' pastor.  I'm often asked if it is difficult to "let go" of some of my pieces. Sometimes it is.  I'm a little sentimental about "Circle of Truth." Still, I'm very glad that someone I love chose it for her home. Thanks, Joan! Enjoy!

I do hope that all of you able to go see my "Warm Observations: People and Places" exhibit, take the opportunity to go.  It's colorful, warm, full of beautiful places filled with interesting people. As much as I look forward to the places, adventures, excitement, enjoyment, learning ahead in 2015, 2014 and prior were filled with glorious days spent capturing magical places -- and it's there for you to enjoy, hanging on the walls at ArtSpace. The show continues until February 22 ... and I will be giving a free painting demonstration in the gallery on Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm.  (Don't wait until then to go see.)

ArtSpace Gallery Hours are:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday thru Thursday: 10am to 2pm
Friday through Saturday: 10am to 5pm
Sunday: 1pm to 5pm

ArtSpace Herndon is closed due to inclement weather whenever Fairfax County cancels school.

If in doubt, you can contact the gallery at http://www.artspaceherndon.com/  or call:
703-956-6590.

Opening reception for "Warm Observations: People and Places" at ArtSpace Herndon
Events and Exhibits
  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great
    Falls, VA.
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat.,
    12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel


Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Painting Home

"Baby, It's Cold Outside," oil, 24"h x 18"w,©Jill Banks 2015.
For each new solo exhibit on the horizon, I seem to have an endless list of paintings-to-be that are added to my inclusion wish list. In "Warm Observations: People and Places," now playing (up) at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA ... I wanted to show "home" -- all the new scenes that surround me since Randy and I moved to our townhome in Fairfax last summer.

So it didn't make it into that exhibit, but sooner or later, I do get around to turning those visions in my head a reality. Here's my second favorite spot in our house (the studio still wins #1) -- the perfect table for Randy and me ... with snow lining the trees and grass outside.

Preview "Warm Observations" Online Here. Scenes from last Saturday's reception are repeated  here. They weren't ready in time for the last post to go out. Enjoy!


"Market Day," my painting from the Alba, Italy market behind Jay, trying to hide.

Events and Exhibits


  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Reception: Saturday, January 17. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great
    Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, January 16, 7-9pm
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat.,
    12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Reception photos from the opening reception of "Warm Observations: People and Places"
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel




How's that for a sign! 
 

Sunday, January 18, 2015

A Little More "Rise and Shine" and Scenes from the Reception

"Rise and Shine," oil, 16"h x 12"w, ©Jill Banks 2015
I said all it needed was my signature ... but changed my mind.  Still love it.

And, here are some photos from the "Warm Observations: People and Places" reception last night (January 17) at ArtSpace Herndon.  See below for the BIG sign heading into Herndon for my show. Pretty cool!

"Warm Observations: People and Places" at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA. Hope to see you there!

Preview "Warm Observations" Online Here.









"Market Day," my painting from the Alba, Italy market behind Jay, trying to hide.

Events and Exhibits


  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Reception: Saturday, January 17. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great
    Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, January 16, 7-9pm
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat.,
    12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Reception photos from the opening reception of "Warm Observations: People and Places"
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel




How's that for a sign! 
 

Saturday, January 17, 2015

Great Falls School Exhibition: Awards

More photos will definitely need to come later as I'm off to my opening reception for "Warm Observations" in just a few minutes ... but the Opening Reception for this celebration of learning and art was fantastic!  Lots of supporters for the artists in both the youth and adult categories. Thoughtful comments from award co-juror Cindy Grisdela. Just fun!

YOUTH CATEGORY
Milk Carton, Maryam BadeFirst Place: "Milk Carton"
Maryam Bade, Age 12
Pencil on Paper










Light & Shadows, Miriam BurchSecond Place: "Light & Shadows"
Miriam Burch, Age 11
Charcoal on Paper









Lydia, Renee SchmidtThird Place: "Lydia"
Renee Schmidt, Age 14
Pencil on Paper










Grace DeLuca, age 14, accepting award for "Frederic" with the blue background shown above her
Honorable Mention: "Frederic"
Grace DeLuca, Age 14
Digital Art

Honorable Mention: "Scientific Instruments"
Thomas Burch, Age 13
Charcoal on Paper











ADULT CATEGORY
Pick Me, Robin RosnerFirst Place: "Pick Me"
Robin Rosner
Oil on Canvas










Wrangler, Donna BarnakoSecond Place: "Wrangler"
Donna Barnako
Acrylic Mixed Media









Tranquility, Linda GardenThird Place: "Tranquility"
Linda Garden
Oil on Canvas










Hanoi Flower Lady, Claire AdamsHonorable Mention: "Hanoi Flower Lady"
Claire Adams
Oil on Canvas













Silver Dollars, Joanne ByrneHonorable Mention: "Silver Dollars"
Joanne Byrne
Oil on Canvas














These photos and the announcement of award winners are also at: http://greatfallsatelier.com/events. More, again, will be added later.

Thanks to all who attended!





Events and Exhibits


  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Reception: Saturday, January 17. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, January 16, 7-9pm
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat., 12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel

Friday, January 16, 2015

Can't Get Enough Roosters

I'm off to the Opening and Awards Reception for the Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition ... but before I go, here's my painting for today.

"Rise and Shine," oil, 14"h x 11"w, ©Jill Banks 2015
I was thinking it might get a little more work ... but on second thought, it'll get a signature and that's that. Love it the way it is.

Check back tomorrow for photos and news from tonight's reception. Then, tomorrow night (Saturday, January 17, 7 to 9pm) is my opening reception for "Warm Observations: People and Places" at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA. Hope to see you there!

Preview "Warm Observations" Online Here.

Events and Exhibits

  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Reception: Saturday, January 17. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, January 16, 7-9pm
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat., 12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

"Indoor Picnic" in Progress

"Indoor Picnic" in progress, oil, 24"h x 18"w, ©Jill Banks 2015
I'm not sure if the title is staying, but here's a sneak peek at the still life in progress from yesterday's demo.  It's been moved from the classroom to my home studio to make way for studiomate John Francis McCabe's talk tonight (Wednesday) about the history of Fine Art Portraiture. Good reason for the move ... but this setup was much easier to arrange the first time.  So today, I spent about equal effort resetting up/getting the light similar as painting.

Hopefully I can finish it up before all the flowers call it quits.

The Great Falls School of Art Student Exhibition is up and looks terrific thanks to all the contributors. Come take a look for yourself during the opening and awards reception on Friday, January 16, 7 to 9pm at the Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Hope to see you there.

The Great Falls School of Art student exhibition is up!

And, the opening reception for my solo exhibit "Warm Observations: People and Places" at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA is Saturday, January 17, 7 to 9pm.



Events and Exhibits
  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Reception: Saturday, January 17. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, January 16, 7-9pm
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat., 12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel

Monday, January 12, 2015

"Warm Observations: People and Places" Is Up!

Randy and I are there to greet you in the lobby (left: "Randy and Me," right top: "Like Colors" and bottom: "Korean Garden")
Forty-seven paintings perfectly placed later ... my "Warm Observations: People and Places" exhibit is up. Phew! Husband Randy was the hanging crew despite many offers of help from ArtSpace Herndon. He is the only one who seems able to survive the process still on the friendly side.

Inside the gallery space
It looks really terrific. (Actually, I should let you decide.) Some I thought would hang have returned to other walls (like our home) because they just didn't fit.

The alcove with "Market Day"
I arrived with a plan, having laid out all the walls with a scale model. Then, we adjusted. One wall in the plan is not "hangable." Others, the hanging system did not extend far enough to match my layout. Just as well. The space, in reality, is considerably different than on paper or screen.

After posting this, I'll update my website's "Warm Observations: People and Places" Preview page so you can see almost the whole show online.

If you can, come to the opening reception: Saturday, January 17, 7 to 9 pm at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA. "Warm Observations" runs from January 13 to February 22.

For more info on hours and to see the preview of the exhibition, click here.

More...
I'll also be giving a painting demonstration on Saturday, January 31, 2 to 5pm in that same space. RSVP for that free event via email to me at jill@jillbanks.com. Hope to see you there!

Events and Exhibits

  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Reception: Saturday, January 17. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, January 16, 7-9pm
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat., 12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel



Saturday, January 10, 2015

"Venezia Market II" Finished

"Venezia Market II," oil, 18"h x 24"w, ©Jill Banks 2015
Wish I was there!

Randy and I traveled to a much less touristy spot in Venice last Spring ... and enjoyed the glimpse of everyday living.

I've put this into the line-up of paintings to be hung at ArtSpace Herndon for my "Warm Observations: People and Places" solo exhibit.  If it's too wet, it will stay home. Hope not.

Events and Exhibits

Scene from my 2014 Paint with Me in Italy workshop.  Join us this Summer!
  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Reception: Saturday, January 17. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, January 16, 7-9pm
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat., 12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel

Friday, January 9, 2015

"Piemonte Lunch" on the Cover of élan Magazine

A close-up of "Piemonte Lunch"  is on the cover of élan Magazine's January 2015 edition
"Piemonte Lunch," the painting that captures husband Randy enjoying the rest of our lunch in the hill town of Nieve, Italy is the cover image for élan Magazine's January 2015 edition.

Inside, too, on p. 23 of the calendar section is "Market Day" -- the postcard image for my rapidly approaching solo show "Warm Observations: People and Places" on view at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA from January 13 to February 22, 2015.

Reception and Demo
Two main events during the show at ArtSpace Herndon I hope you can attend are:

Reception: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 7-9pm
Painting Demonstration: Saturday, January 31, 2-5pm
both events are free and open to the public ... and are being held at ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA. RSVP for the painting demonstration helpful ... so I can save you a seat or two.

For viewing the exhibit during its run aside from those dates: ArtSpace Herndon's hours are:

Gallery Hours
Monday: closed
Tues - Thurs: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.


ArtSpace Herndon is closed due to inclement weather whenever Fairfax County cancels school.

If in doubt, you can contact the gallery at http://www.artspaceherndon.com/  or call:
703-956-6590
My studio at the Artists' Atelier today

Open Hours at the Artists' Atelier
On Saturday,  January 10 from noon to 4pm, you can find me in my studio at the Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.  While most of the paintings going into the show at ArtSpace Herndon are in my home studio getting ready to go ... my space in the Atelier is filled with still life paintings, some chickens, horses, and portraits.  And me.

Events and Exhibits
Scene from my 2014 Paint with Me in Italy workshop.  Join us this Summer!
  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Reception: Saturday, January 17. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, January 16, 7-9pm
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open. (This is where "Piemonte Lunch" was "born"!)
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat., 12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

From Gift to Painting: "Serenade"

"Serenade," oil, 10"h x 8"w, ©Jill Banks 2015
For Christmas, my parents gave each family member something that they have loved owning -- but that isn't going with them to their new home. Each object starts a new chapter with us. My gift was the Lladro clown and since Christmas, I've wanted to paint him. It's special to me that the objects already have a history. He's serenading a beautiful, shiny ornament, another gift from my parents.

This was a joy to paint. Simple, glowing, quiet, peaceful.


 Events and Exhibits
Scene from my 2014 Paint with Me in Italy workshop.  Join us this Summer!
  • January 13-February 22, 2015: "Warm Observations: People and Places" Solo Exhibit, ArtSpace Herndon, Herndon, VA. Reception: Saturday, January 17. Painting demonstration: Saturday, January 31. RSVP for painting demo.
  • January 14 - 28: Great Falls School of Art Annual Student Exhibition, Atelier Gallery, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. Reception: Friday, January 16, 7-9pm
  • Paint with Me in Italy Plein Air Workshop: July 27 to August 2, 2015. Registration is now open.
  • See the Events page for more info/updates
  • Ongoing: Visit the studio I share with 14 other artists at the Artists’ Atelier, Great Falls, VA open Wed. and Sat., 12- 4pm
Thanks for reading!
Jill

Classes page at www.JillBanks.com. Portrait class full with wait list ... but add your name anyway if interested.  Spots do open up. Thanks! Still life is also full. How about Paint(ing) with Me in Italy this Summer?


Phone: 703.403.7435
Email: jill@jillbanks.com
Web:
www.JillBanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com

Subscribe to my Email Newsletter: News from the Easel