Life as an Artist- Jill Banks

"Paint Me Cupcake" Today

2012-01-26T21:47:00.000-05:00

"Paint Me Cupcake," oil, 10"h x 8"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

A week or so ago, Randy and I were eating lunch and bought some cupcakes as painting subjects. I guess I kept the box closed ... and cupcakes unpainted too long ... because Randy added the Paint Me! message to the outside of the box and put it in my car where I'd see it going back and forth to the Atelier (the studio I share with 14 other artists at 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA).

Today I "listened" to the not-so-subliminal, not-so-subtle message and painted cupcake #1.

Computer Woes and Persimmons

2012-01-26T11:11:00.001-05:00

"Persimmons in the Kitchen," oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

Computer troubles kept me from making much painting progress yesterday. I was planning to work on "The Poker Club." It took me a couple of hours to get to a starting point ... and then not with the right photo references ... having killed off a DVD in the process. I would have wiped away part of yesterday's painting if I was able to get the top off of the can of Gamsol. You can see why I didn't put up a post last night. It was that kind of day.

I will be going laptop shopping soon. It's definitely time.

And since I don't have yesterday's painting to post, here's one from my kitchen that I changed around near the end of last year. It started as "Turkey Soup" ... from daughter-in-law Michelle's after-Thanksgiving cooking adventures. I changed around what was in the bowl later ... loved the persimmons ... and painted them in. So, here's "Persimmons in the Kitchen."

Today, I'll abandon the computer as reference. Play with a still life. Talk to you later.

Oh, and Randy now has all my framed available artwork in an inventory system (Flick!) ... which will be a huge help. I have a quick visual reference, with dates, sizes, show history, etc. in one spot. To say that you lose track of what you've done and where it is ... is an understatement. This is great. All this has been done on my home computer. When I returned to it, the screen was clear of its usual gunk. I found out where it all went. There's now a new folder on the desktop titled "Jill's Cr_p." Thanks, Randy.

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

On view at the Art League Gallery in the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA for the month of January. Take a look!

"Ostrich and Polka Dots," "Ramsey" and "Half Dozen Donuts" are on view in Great Falls Studios' January Virtual (online) Gallery Exhibit "Patterns"

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
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"Classical Painting Atelier" Still Life: Just About Done

2012-01-22T21:23:00.000-05:00

Blurry photo ... but you get the idea. "Classical Painting Atelier," 24"h x 18"w, oil

Sorry for the blurry photo. I took it under pretty low light ... and I moved.

There is just one little part I need to fix on this ... that I couldn't do with the paint wet ... and then this is done. There are some "ghosts" of two leaves I moved that need to be sanded a bit and then painted over to meld with the background.

I love how this one has evolved. "Classical Painting Atelier" has presented plenty of challenges (like the book cover portrait, the feather, some very unusual forms with the gourds) ... but it tells the story of the classroom. The red feather in the foreground is from boa I had as a prop for my portrait class demo the day before. They were sprinkled all over the room. "Classical Painting Atelier" is the title of the book by Juliette Aristedes, one of the many resources in the classroom. Juliette Aristedes would have no doubt approved the still life set-up and exercise in learning. I chose this still life inspired by the Great Falls School of Art Student Exhibition that is hanging in the Artists' Atelier gallery upstairs from the school this month. Students of all ages are getting a great foundation in drawing, lights and darks, the academics of art. This painting is a nod to what's going on here.

Lesson One of the Week: I also added many more reds to my palette today to get the intensity and variations shown in the red silk fabric. My usual palette includes in the red family: Permanent Alizarin Crimson, Quinacridone Red, Cadmium Red Light and Venetian Red. Today I added: Perylene Red, Cadmium Scarlet, and Cadmium Orange. The reason for the addition is that reds are tough to lighten ... it's hard to change their value without dulling their intensity. Add white to a red and it turns it pink. But, add white to Cadmium Orange and you get a light color that's pretty intense. Put something like perylene red or cadmium scarlet on top of that and you have a light, bright red. Like the color of the cloth in the light.

Lesson Two of the Week: I don't like eating brussel sprouts. But, they are fun to paint.

Tonight I put up the easels, tables and Randy and I worked on a boom light for tomorrow's portrait class. It should be an interesting day ... and I'll probably mention something about being worn out tomorrow night. Going back to school after the break is rough (and exciting) for teacher and student.

"Cars and Coffee," oil on Raymar panel, 16"h x 20"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

"Cars and Coffee" Painting of the Old Brogue
This painting was done over two plein air painting sessions up on the hill looking down at the Old Brogue Irish Pub, the Great Falls VA gathering place Randy and I happened to eat at tonight. It had been off the market for a little bit ... (I do that for various reasons) ... but it is available for purchase. Contact me if you are interested.

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

Mainly Resting

2012-01-21T21:14:00.000-05:00

"Charcoal Sketch: Female Portrait," charcoal, 24"h x 20"w framed by Jill Banks

I'm just not sure whether the work done in the last few days represents progress ... so I'm holding those photos in my back pocket.

Today was my miscellaneous day. Randy and I scraped and sanded some of those in question paintings to make sure the backgrounds stayed in the background (they don't if the paint is too thick or lively). And, I worked for a good while on my inventory system. Exciting, I know. I've been working on building it using Flick! since mid-last year ... but since last year went roaring by, I have a lot of backtracking to do.

And, then Randy and I had a candlelit dinner at home. Something I've been hoping for lately. There's snow on the ground outside and fire, reflections and warmth inside. What is better than that?

I decided my image of the day would reflect my work of the day. This drawing, that I framed in late December really hasn't been seen before ... except when I was showing one of my portrait clients a drawing and had to pass by this one in my sketchbook. A forgotten sketch framed and put up in my foyer. It happens to be one of my rediscovered favorites because of the painterly-ness of it. See John Singer Sargent's drawings. He drew like this. This one's not yet in my inventory. She has plenty of company.

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

A Full Day of Painting

2012-01-18T21:39:00.000-05:00

"Classical Painting Atelier" work in progress day 2 ... sort of

I really just planned to show you pictures. I worked most of a long day on "The Poker Club" but I'll wait for another session to show what's up there.

So, this is my painting from yesterday with about another hour and half's worth of work.

While I was giving my demo for my Still Life class, we talked about its focal point. Giving a demo is different than just painting. There's less careful consideration. It's all action.

I thought my focal point would be the yellow gourd on the right. That's changed. The brussel sprouts on the left and that green gourd are my main areas of interest and the yellow gourd points the way.

A quiet still life.

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

"Classical Painting Atelier" Still Life in Progress

2012-01-17T21:41:00.001-05:00

"Classical Painting Atelier" wip, oil, 24"h x 18"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

The name might change ... and there's more work to do ... but this started as today's demo for the first day of Still Life class. I definitely didn't get this far with an audience. It's a case of biting off more than you can chew. Or something like that. Too large. Too many elements. Too much fun and other stuff to cover to get it in respectable shape during class.

When my students realized that there wasn't any way they were going to see it come together, they asked me to finish (or more fully develop) one part. I chose concentrating on the book in the scene, "Classical Painting Atelier" by Juliette Aristedes. As they watched me paint the portrait on the book cover, I wasn't hearing overwhelming praise. I won't repeat any of the comments.

I think it's just fine ... and I like the introduction of a dark and portrait elements with the book. If I developed it more it would jump forward in the scene. Not what I'd want.

In addition to liking it as an object, the book tells a story about the painting. It's pulled from the classroom library. It places all those gourds and brussel sprouts at the scene.

That's enough for this post. It's been a long day.

Oscar Haynes as my Face #13 for my 100 Faces in 100 Days Project

Tomorrow is Oscar Haynes birthday. Happy Birthday, Oscar!

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

Alla Prima Portrait of "Miriam in Her Gray Beret"

2012-01-16T18:45:00.000-05:00

"Miriam in Her Gray Beret," oil on Senso linen, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

For the first day of my portrait class -- demo day -- I had the great opportunity to paint almost-nine-year-old Miriam. Miriam was excited to get her first real job, but I think I was even more excited to get the chance to have her sit for me. Or maybe it was a toss up.

This is an alla prima, painted all in one sitting, portrait -- worked wet into wet. Painting in this method offers spontaneity, or freshness to the work. Perfect for capturing an almost nine-year-old.

Miriam sat super still and I imagine that there were some awfully long stretches between breaks ... because it was too much fun painting her to also keep track of the time. Her snacks came in a cute pink lunch bag. One snack was a waffle -- and her mom remarked ... "Well, she was born in Belgium."

There are always a lot of funny comments, good stories and laughter in the class ... it's just a great group. I imagine that Miriam had some tales to tell tonight at the dinner table. One of the extra treats for being our model.

Thanks, Miriam, for making our day!

And, as always after the first day of class, I'm a little beat. Time to take it easy. The first day of still life class is tomorrow.

Close-Up of "Miriam in Her Gray Beret"

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

Back to the "The Poker Club"

2012-01-14T21:43:00.001-05:00

"The Poker Club" work in progress, oil on linen, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

My agenda for the day ... including putting together two new additional easels for classes that start this Monday and attending fellow studiomate Terri Parent's reception for her "Multiples" exhibit ... was to spend some enjoyable hours continuing painting on "The Poker Club." When I do get done with this (I still have a good way to go), I'm going to miss it. In some strange way, I find I build a relationship, or just enjoy, the opportunity to work on some paintings. When I've finished a piece, I don't get to go back to it any more. I'm no longer figuring out what to do next.

There's an excitement joy in watching it develop and satisfaction when it's complete. Two different things.

Tomorrow's a funny day ... with a meeting, hopefully a date lunch/brunch with my husband, and a reception for the "Quilts" show at Herndon ArtSpace. And... getting ready for the first week of classes. Lately, I've been spending lots of time toting my paints and gear from place to place (like my parents' condo, my studio in Great Falls, my home studio, and Kidwell Farm). My painting "luggage" has fallen to an all-time low. Most of it is now in a slippery, huge, black, heavy-duty trash bag. I'm going to need to pull a fast switcheroo before the first days of classes (this Monday and Tuesday) ... or I fear that my students will be less than impressed. Time to look serious.

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

"Drama Queens" Still Life Painting Today

2012-01-13T21:53:00.006-05:00

"Drama Queens," oil on Senso linen, 20"h x 20"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

This is a continuation of a painting I started early last year while I was in the throes of my 100 Faces in 100 Days project. I'd been given tulips as a peace offering from one of my reluctant sitters. Somebody in the house ate the bananas. The tulips died waiting for me to have enough extra energy to finish. But, I loved the reflection of the tulips in the kitchen window. So, here it is ... scene recreated ... painted at night with some very close cousins of the original subjects.

It was great fun. And, like an Alfred Hitchcock movie, I've let my own personal imprint somewhere. Did you find me?

Earlier today, I did a little bit of updating to my web site ... adding two of my recent animal paintings to the Animal, Birds and Wildlife Gallery.

This is my second post of the day. Be sure to check out the "Student Exhibit Makes the Cover of the Connection" post, too.

Web: www.jillbanks.com
Blog: jillbanks.blogspot.com
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 1 (faces 1-54): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project.html
100 Faces in 100 Days Project Page 2 (faces 55-100): www.jillbanks.com/jillbanks/100_Faces_in_100_Days_Project_2.html
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Student Exhibit Makes the Cover of the Connection

2012-01-13T11:26:00.000-05:00

Great Falls Connection, January 11, 2012 edition

I'm posting this on Friday ... but wrote it yesterday. Believe it or not ... I cooked a great dinner last night and totally forgot about hitting the button to publish. I hope that's not a sign of things to come.

So, from Thursday (Yesterday):

The Great Falls Connection celebrated last Saturday's Awards Reception of the Great Falls School of Art with a cover article written and photographed by reporter Alex McVeigh. Very cool! For a short time (one week), you can download a PDF version of this issue to read the full article and enjoy the nice view of this month's exhibit at the Artists' Atelier (the studio I share with 15 other artists at 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA). (Under print editions online, click on Great Falls to download the PDF)

There were over 50 entries for the exhibit which was juried for awards by award-winning Great Falls lithographer, Will Tuthill -- who took one-and-a-half hours to select the winning work. The cover of the Great Falls Connection shows Begoña Morton accepting her second place award in the adult category for her painting "Nautilus." I still need to take photos of each selected work ... but I've not been able to find the time yet. Funny. That keeps happening.

Next Monday and Tuesday, my Winter classes begin. I can tell it's going to be a wonderful term -- with returning star students and new stars to be. My classes are full but I do have a wait list for the Still Life class. Who knows, something might happen with that...
Take a look at the roster of classes and workshops at www.greatfallsfoundationforarts.org and download a Winter bulletin. There are January photography/photoshop workshops by Sarah and Jeff Burton and a "Honing Your Craft" painting workshop coming up taught by Armand Cabrera on February 3, 4 and 5.

Yesterday, I spent my last day painting "The Gin Game" on site in my parent's condo. I'll still be tweaking it in the studio ... but it's time for my easel to exit their kitchen. It was great fun to paint the two of them and hang out for so many days. They never want to stop playing ... which makes them awfully patient models.

You'll see the final results in the next week or so. At least, so I think.

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

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

2012-01-10T21:46:00.002-05:00

"Peacock Blue," oil on Raymar panel, 24"h x 18"w, © Jill Banks 2012

Quick, late post. I was having troubles ... for the last three days with a painting I was trying to bring to completion. My solution for today was to paint something completely different ... a peacock I tried to paint from life last week. So, I had the urge to paint him. I'd tried it from life and observed the guy. I tackled it again from a photo and those memory cells. This is one cool dude. Thinks he's handsome, too.

I may show you the sketch from life sometime soon. Or ... I may head back to the farm, when this has dried and see how I should adjust it. The peacock has the answers, I bet.

"Peacock Blue" is part of my Feathered and Furry Friends series. Some favorites. See my web site for others and this blog for my "Here's Looking at You, Kid" -- of a goat from the same farm -- Kidwell Farm, part of Frying Pan Park in Herndon, VA.

Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

And the Awards Go To...

2012-01-08T11:43:00.001-05:00

Last night was the Awards and Opening Reception for the Great Falls School of Art Exhibit ... and ever since hanging the show, I've been very glad that I wasn't the one to choose the winners. The exhibit is terrific ... and each piece is award-worthy. 2011 was a year of accomplishment and the evidence is hanging in the gallery. Come see it during Open Hours, Saturdays, noon to 4pm at the Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.

I'll add more photos of the winning entries later today ... after I get some painting time in the studio.

Adult Category

Jill (me, left) and Lori Wiseman (right) next to her First Prize winning portrait "Green Scarf"

1st) Lori Wiseman, "Green Scarf"

2nd) Begoña Morton, "Nautilus"

3rd) Mary Beth Gaiarin, "Persimmons and Copper Pot"

Honorable Mention

Begoña Morton, "Portrait of Livia"

Begoña Morton under "Nautilus" (top)

Begoña Morton, "Message Bottles"

Nancy Keane, "Ahmed's Pitcher"

Youth Category

1st) Delaney Jones, "High Tech Girl"

2nd) Victoria Wang, "Human Eye Profile"

3rd) Katie Ledford, "Carly"

Honorable Mention

Cormac Goodwin, "Hen"

Amrita Sahu, "Cat Mask"

Congratulations to All of You!

Nancy Keane (right) with Me (left) under "Ahmed's Pitcher" (top right)

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

Great Falls School of Art Exhibit at the Artists' Atelier Gallery and More...

2012-01-05T21:41:00.002-05:00

Part of the Great Falls School of Art Student Show

Yesterday was receiving day for the Great Falls School of Art Student Show. Paintings and drawings kept pouring in ... and it was great to see them all together. Especially since I'd seen so many of the pieces develop in class. There's a big change, too, between last year and this. The work keeps getting better and better. I guess that's what is supposed to happen. Yet it's fun and rewarding to see all the students' hard work paying off.

Come join us for the Opening and Awards Reception this Saturday, January 7, 5 to 8pm in the Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA. The show is being juried for awards by Great Falls master lithographer Will Tuthill. Awards in both youth and adult categories will be presented around 6pm on Saturday.

Another view of the Student Exhibit

"The Gin Game" Continued
Today I worked more on "The Gin Game" -- a portrait of my Mom and Dad. It's almost there! One more day, I think, to increase contrast and put together some finishing touches.

Oh, I did find out that the 2011 year of gin games ended with my Dad ... very slightly ahead.

"The Gin Game" work in progress, oil, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

On Exhibit:

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

On view at the Art League Gallery in the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA for the month of January. Take a look!

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

2012-01-03T21:28:00.001-05:00

"The Poker Club" work in progress, oil, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011-2012

Today, I just relished having the opportunity to PAINT.

I returned to "The Poker Club" painting. Specifically, the right side of it. So, if it seems like two paintings at the moment ... split about down the middle ... there's a reason. The canvas is too large to address all of it at once. And, the right side of the subject of the painting was the most difficult to view while I was painting it live. I peer around the left side of my canvas ... and to look at the poker players on the right and then walk over to the right side to aim my paintbrush was hard work.

Anyway, here it is so far.

"Dining Alfresco," oil, 24"h x 20"w by Jill Banks at the Art League

"Dining Alfresco" Juried into the Art League January Show

"Arf" Beanie Baby #10 Painting Today ... And a Delay

2012-01-02T19:13:00.000-05:00

Quick post because I'm running ... yet again to the Art League to put in two pieces for jurying for the January show.

So, "Arf" is my first painting of 2012. My resolutions, et al, will have to wait for yet another day. By the way, the photo is pretty sad. A function of very wet paint and night light.

"Arf" Beanie Baby #10, oil on Raymar panel, 6"h x 6"w, ©Jill Banks 2012

Looking Ahead and Back: Happy New Year

2011-12-31T18:16:00.000-05:00

What I Will Do in 2012

Something more modest than what I proposed in 2011.Yet, I promise to reach -- to grow as a person and an artist. More in a bit about that... tomorrow. My cousin's son is getting married tonight ... New Year's Eve ... in a little over an hour. Thus the wait. Oh, and one of the bridal couple's gifts to their guests was a complimentary chair massage to usher in the New Year. That, more than anything delayed my posting next year's plans. Ahhhhhhhh.

2011: A Memorable Year in My Art Journey

Me with 27 of my 100 Faces

The 100 Faces in 100 Days Project: Last year, about this time, I revealed one heck of a New Year's Resolution with the launch of my 100 Faces in 100 Days Project. For 100 days, from January 1 to April 10, a volunteer entered the studio to sit for me and share lives for a few hours. All 101 of us -- my 100 volunteers and I -- made it through this awesome challenge and are much the richer for it. It was the experience of a lifetime. You can read about it, day by day on this blog ... just "dial" back to January 1, 2011.

I successfully completed this crazy New Year's Resolution with 100 Days of scheduling sitters, sittings of generally three to four hours, writing a blog post of each day's adventure, washing brushes, etc. on top of a "routine" of two days of teaching for nine of those weeks, entering art shows, filling out a grant application and getting ready to exhibit the completed paintings two times this summer. Life was nuts. Thrilling but nuts.

With Rob Liberace in Julian Barrows Studio (formerly John Singer Sargent's)

Two days after I painted Face #100, Randy and I flew to London for an almost two-week adventure/wind-down, seven days of which were spent on an art historical tour with Robert Liberace sponsored through the Art League. I drew my way through a 100 Faces in 100 Days recovery. What was nice is that neither Randy nor I could "do" much while there. It wouldn't help to go 100mph there. We'd return home soon enough with just a few days to spare before hanging exhibit #1.

For the next few months, in between exhibit activities, I worked on formulating what comes next. My Project had trained me to keep tackling the unfamiliar and trusting "it" to turn out okay with enough practice under my belt.

"On the Waterfront" painted plein air in Alexandria, VA

I joined the Art League Plein Air Painters, going to Alexandria to paint on the Waterfront. Before, I was a studio painter -- relying on subject matter like portraits and still lifes where I controlled the light. There was little wind. The temperature remained about the same. The bugs were generally just fruit flies ... if any. Plein air painting is truly tough. The landscape is vast and uncontrolled. It was new territory, but it brought with it the thrill of life and the unknown. Just like having a different subject show up each day to be painted. I have so much left to learn, but I'm on my way. Just a 1000 or so canvases to go and I'll really have the hang of it.

Honestly, I've had some successes already with it. I entered two plein air painting competitions this year. The first was Paint Herndon! where my painting "Old Town Herndon II" won third place. The second was Out and About Norfolk where two of my three paintings won awards. "Elephant from the Norfolk Zoo" won a Purchase Award and "Chrysler Museum Fountain" won the Raymar Art Award. A third painting, "W&OD BBQ," that was started in plein air won First Prize in the Reston Century T-Shirt Art Competition. The best part is that this has been so much fun.

"Elephant at the Norfolk Zoo" won the Purchase Award at Out&About Norfolk

I started my Feathered and Furry Friends series -- painting animals on site -- in a zoo, on a friend's farm, and at Kidwell Farm at Frying Pan Park. Painting moving animals was like painting moving people (as in my 100 Faces) ... with the addition of plein air challenges, setting my easel up outside the studio with onlookers. I LOVED every minute of it.

The cool thing about all of this year is that my paintings were full of the experiences of those days ... in all their craziness. Canvases weren't planned. I had the general idea of where to "show up," made choices on the fly, adapted as necessary, shared the joy of creating art with others, and worked at being up to the task. Those experiences, replete with funny stories, infuse life in the linen. Not bad at all.

And, a great joy is that I've had some wonderful folks enjoy the journey with me. Embrace the successes. Laugh at the mishaps. Love the art. Thank you!!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

"The Gin Game" Painting of Mom & Dad: Day 4

2011-12-29T16:43:00.000-05:00

"The Gin Game" work in progress day #4, oil, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

The artist (me) and my mom & dad continued playing and painting ... right up to the wire. It's time to put down the brushes at least until 2012. My cousin's son is getting married on New Year's Eve so it's to the wedding we go.

I may be back again tomorrow with New Year's resolutions and a look back to a pretty extraordinary 2011.

We shall see.

Have a Safe and Happy New Year!

Thanks so much for your support and encouragement in 2011 ... and for viewing my art! I'm grateful!

Jill Banks

Current Exhibitions
Mainly ... my home is filled with lots of art from my December Home Studio Open House. Want a tour? (Ends January 2.)

Sign up for Winter classes. Now, my Still Life class is full (but you could join a wait list) and the Portrait class has one spot left. See my web site: www.JillBanks.com, click on the classes page.

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

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

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

2011-12-28T21:44:00.000-05:00

Me with the portrait at "the drop"

I thought you'd enjoy a glimpse into the surreptitious activities of surprise portrait commission delivery. Last week, right before Christmas, I met my client (Sally) in the parking lot of the McLean Community Library (McLean, VA) to hand off the still wet portrait of her parents -- a surprise Christmas gift for them. Sally used the going-to-CVS excuse to get out of the house... alone. Anything more interesting would have brought along a guest or two, perhaps.

We both got a kick out of the activity. So much so, that she snapped a photo of me next to the delivery vehicle (my car). By the way, my car never looks like this. It's usually piled high with painting/drawing supplies, cardboard to separate paintings, still life objects, rotting fruit, lots of trash, etc. Son Sam and daughter-in-law Michelle's Christmas present to me was sifting their way through the piles until I can now actually see carpet and leather. And accept passengers.

Sally's parents loved the portrait ... And to that, I say, a major yea!!!

After realizing that I "had" the portrait, i.e., Sally and her parents would love it, I celebrated by painting the goat and starting the painting of my parents playing gin rummy.

I do kick up my heels sometimes.

There were lots of great moments today ... that I think I'll reserve for another day.

Sally's parents with the portrait

Current Exhibitions
Mainly ... my home is filled with lots of art from my December Home Studio Open House. Want a tour? (Ends January 2.)

Sign up for Winter classes. Now, my Still Life class is full (but you could join a wait list) and the Portrait class has one spot left. See my web site: www.JillBanks.com, click on the classes page.

Day Two on "The Gin Game"

2011-12-27T11:38:00.000-05:00

"The Gin Game" work in progress day 2, oil on linen, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

I have more to post ... but not the resources on hand to do so ... yet. Christmas portraits and presents have been delivered ... with happy results but my photos of the finished works are at home. And I'm not.

I painted round two of Mom and Dad playing gin rummy on Christmas Eve ... up until about 20 minutes before guests arrived at their condo for a quick dinner before candlelight services. My easel and mess awaits in their kitchen for day three. Which may be tomorrow.

It's fun. The canvas is large and those moving hands and table stuff is a daunting challenge indeed. You can see part of my Mom's card hand. Good thing Dad didn't look until later.

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas ... or your special holiday ... and wish you a Happy New Year!

I'll be back later when I've rounded up other photos from this year's art merry-making.

Current Exhibitions
Mainly ... my home is filled with lots of art from my December Home Studio Open House. Want a tour?

Sign up for Winter classes. Now, my Still Life class is full (but you could join a wait list) and the Portrait class has one spot left. See my web site: www.JillBanks.com, click on the classes page.

"The Gin Game" Painting of Mom & Dad Today...

2011-12-23T21:18:00.001-05:00

The Gin Game Painting of Mom and Dad work in progress, oil, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

I had a blast today ... starting a painting that I've wanted to create for years. Believe it or not, while I've painted plenty of other people's parents, I haven't had the pleasure of capturing my own Mom and Dad. So, today was the day to begin.

That I'm painting right before Christmas has astonished a few people. Like, shouldn't I be out shopping or home wrapping or cooking or something? Painting these few days has been my present to myself -- for getting all those other things done that needed to be accomplished. It's like driving against traffic instead of with it. It feels great.

My mom and dad are gin rummy fanatics ... keeping running game/series totals throughout the year and starting anew each January 1. A painting of them had to depict the card playing rivalry. They both take it very seriously.

I had so much fun hanging out with them all afternoon ... sometimes being part of the conversation but mainly observing and painting. I had the opportunity to be part of their world as a couple. (It's a very nice world.)

My painting corner at Mom and Dad's

After asking Mom to change sweaters from pink to green, I chose the breakfast area in their kitchen to paint ... then kept rearranging where they sat and the angle of the table to change the space between them and take advantage of nicer light patterns. I love the way they are set up now. You get to be as much a part of the scene as me. (This did cram me into the corner though ... with no room to back up. You've got to do what you've got to do.)

I will be painting this during the game -- not from photographs. The Gin Game -- like The Poker Game -- is the kind of work I plan to do in 2012. From life. Developed "on the fly." As real and full of life as I can make it and focused on relationships.

There were other great parts of today. My life as an artist gets very sneaky around Christmas with deliveries and drop-offs of surprise gifts. I'm expecting some photos of gift-opening ... since I'll be hanging out around my house on Christmas day.

Happy Holidays!

And, hey Sam and Michelle ... see Papa's Virginia Tech mug?

Current Exhibitions
Mainly ... my home is filled with lots of art from my December Home Studio Open House. Want a tour?

Sign up for Winter classes. Now, my Still Life class is full (but you could join a wait list) and the Portrait class has one spot left. See my web site: www.JillBanks.com, click on the classes page.

Fun on the Farm ... Christmas Week!

2011-12-22T21:50:00.002-05:00

Here's Looking at You, Kid, oil on Raymar panel, 16"h x 12"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

Kid at Kidwell Farm
I don't know if you can tell, but I'm doing all I can to recharge my artistic batteries. Today really worked. Here it is, a few days before Christmas ... and it was warm enough for me to spend part of the afternoon at Kidwell Farm in Frying Pan Park ... talking to and painting the animals.

I still have a smile on my face.

For those of you following the blog, you know I've been there before, painting "Moo" and "Barn Dance" and "Red Tractor." All those have gone to new homes, and I missed both the experience of being on the farm and having paintings of the animals hanging around the house.

The best antidote: go find some new friends.

Walking into the farm today, there were so many potential subjects. The roosters and hens had escaped the coop and were wandering all around. A few of the probably less astute ones were still hanging out in the pen wondering how the others had gotten outside.

Does it get any funnier than this?

The most obvious subjects were the goats ... and indeed, the one I decided to paint. Her name is Delilah and she was a pretty excellent model. For the most part, she was all mine. Actually, I was a bit concerned that she'd end up on my side of the fence. I take it she's a mountain goat. How hard is it to get over the fence? Delilah was up on the "mountain" of stones in the corner, raising her leg to the top of the fence and leaning with all her might in my direction. I showed her my work in progress, but that didn't seem to satisfy her. (I really did. Fortunately, no one is catching my peculiarities on film.)

I saw so many reasons to go back. Dandy the cow (the most gorgeous cow) comes from a far field at 4pm to be milked. The pigs were grunting, snorting and resting toward the end of the day. There are two more goats in Delilah's pen. Those hens and roosters were calling, so to speak.

Oh. One of my discoveries is that Delilah has almost rectangular pupils ... in a landscape orientation. I wonder how that new knowledge will come in handy.

Chrysler Museum Memorial Gardens won the Raymar Art Award

By the way, I painted Here's Looking at You, Kid on one of the Raymar panels I won at the Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Competition and Exhibition. There, I won the Raymar Art Award for "Chrysler Museum Memorial Garden" but I'd won a Purchase Award for a painting of an elephant from the Norfolk Zoo. Sort of related.

I'll return as soon as I can. I can't wait!

See my web site (www.JillBanks.com) gallery pages for the Feathered and Furry Friend Series if you want to see more.

Current Exhibitions
Mainly ... my home is filled with lots of art from my December Home Studio Open House. Want a tour?

Sign up for Winter classes. Now, my Still Life class is full (but you could join a wait list) and the Portrait class has one spot left. See my web site: www.JillBanks.com, click on the classes page.

"The Poker Club" Continued

2011-12-21T21:50:00.000-05:00

The Poker Club work in progress, oil on linen, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

Today's painting project of choice was a return to The Poker Club albeit without my Dad's poker buddies present. Yesterday's trip to the Phillips Collection inspired me to pick it back up ... with William Merritt Chase's Hide and Seek in my head. Duncan Phillips referred to his museum as an experiment, wanting the works to build a conversation with visitors and each other. Art does that. One spark leads to another.

The Poker Club is also a prototype of sorts for the work I want to do in 2012. The end of the year is time for reflection. Time for plans. My best way to figure it all is transition through paint. Look soon for a few treatises here. I blog plan.

This painting was on view in my house during the Home Studio Open House ... at the urging of my Dad's poker club clan. With so much left to do, revealing an undone canvas is nerve-wracking. Canvases take so many twists and turns in creation that I don't want anyone to get too attached in progress. I want to keep my own vision in my head ... unaccompanied.

Read more about the painting in progress in an earlier post.

Current Exhibitions
Mainly ... my home is filled with lots of art from my December Home Studio Open House. Want a tour?

Sign up for Winter classes. Now, my Still Life class is full (but you could join a wait list) and the Portrait class has one spot left. See my web site: www.JillBanks.com, click on the classes page.

Day at the Phillips Collection

2011-12-20T20:45:00.001-05:00

Edgar Degas (French, 1834-1917) The Dance Class c. 1873

I've been needing a day of play and inspiration ... badly. I might just need more than a day but this afternoon's adventure definitely helped.

I had never been to the Phillips Collection, even though I live in the DC area. It was time to branch out from my regular museum haunts. The draw for the Phillips is the current exhibition "Degas's Dancers at the Barre: Point and Counterpoint." There are some truly beautiful pieces in this special exhibition, including my favorite, The Dance Class on loan from the Corcoran, the William A. Clark Collection. The greatest part of that painting (for me) are the dancers descending the spiral staircase in the upper left. That's simply brilliant. There's a real sense of intimacy, and space and light.

Edgar Degas, Dancers At the Barre, oil, early 1880s-1900

Exhibition wall text drove home the fact that Degas worked and reworked and reworked his art. When it didn't appear that he had reworked a piece, it was explained that the painting had quickly sold so he hadn't had a chance. I completely understand this with some of his obviously complex pieces like this one. I could see how others were improved with additions and changes. In one case, I found it strange however. For Dancers At the Barre, Degas drew sketch after sketch with minimal changes over a long period of time. As attractive as the painting is, I wonder what he had to spend so much time working out. I made the mistake of mentioning this to (husband) Randy ... who I thinked laughed at me. The reason I needed a break ... is because I've been fretting and redoing and improving my own work, lots, of late.

The exhibit has wonderful text, too. Degas collected ... and some of the paintings he once owned were on view. He owned Manets but had a falling out with Manet when that artist cut his wife out of the double-portrait canvas that Degas had painted of them. Well, that conjures up a lot of potential stories, doesn't it? I hope none of the portraits I paint suffer the same fate.

William Merritt Chase (American, 1849-1916), Hide and Seek, oil, 1888

The Phillips Permanent Collection held many gems as well. (Many of the paintings in the Degas special exhibition are also part of the permanent collection.) Favorites included paintings by John Henry Twachtman (American, 1853-1902) and Pierre Bonnard (French). When Duncan Phillips liked an artist, he bought a lot of his work.

The museum held lots of unknown territory for me -- I've been tuned in elsewhere. Of those artists I knew, their pieces at the Phillips still held surprises in one form or another. William Merritt Chase's Hide and Seek is fascinating. I love the composition, the spareness of the interior and tension within.

Jill Banks, Hide and Seek, oil, 2005. Private collection.

Speaking of Hide and Seek, I painted one by the same title that appeared as my postcard image for my first solo show. Fruit as protaganists.

The Phillips Collection Degas exhibit closes January 8.

A GREAT Holiday Gift for the Artist You Love...

The Audition, oil, 20"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

Registration is going on now for classes and workshops that start in January at the Great Falls School of Art. I'll be teaching Portrait Painting and Drawing on Mondays, 10am-1pm, 9 classes starting January 16. There's just one spot left...

And, I'm teaching Still Life Painting in Oils on Tuesdays, 10am-1pm, 9 sessions starting January 17. There's just one spot left in it.

Get more information on classes on my web site, classes page ... and if you are registering, please email me to let me know. Thanks!!!

There are a lot more exciting classes and workshops from terrific instructors ... for artists of all ages.

For more information on other class offerings, go to the Great Falls Foundation for the Arts web site: www.GreatFallsFoundationForArts.org and click on Winter Catalog to download.

Current Exhibitions
Mainly ... my home is filled with lots of art from my December Home Studio Open House. Want a tour?

Eat It Or Paint It? "Garlic Rope" Painting Today

2011-12-19T21:57:00.001-05:00

"Garlic Rope," 6"h x 6"w, oil, ©Jill Banks 2011

Whenever food enters the Banks household, my family asks the question ... "is it to paint or to eat?" I guess you know today's answer.

I spent most of the day however fixing paintings. With great success. Hurray!

Sometime this week, I'm heading for the DC museums as a special re-energizing treat. I can't wait!!!

Current Exhibitions

Mainly ... my home is filled with lots of art from my December Home Studio Open House. Want a tour?

"Moo" and More... and Phew!

2011-12-16T21:50:00.002-05:00

Yesterday's Purchase: "Moo"

Three paintings left the house yesterday and today ... going off with smiling new owners.

Yesterday, "Moo" was purchased within a few minutes of one of our Home Studio Open House guest's entrance. I'd been figuring that "Moo" wasn't going to stick around in my house very long. I love that cow. He was one of my Feathered and Furry Friend series paintings ... of which I now have one. There will be more ... as soon as I can set up my easel on a farm or zoo ... somewhere.

Today, Chicago collectors visited and will be flying home with "Yellow Onions" and "Orange Chunks." They had purchased "Arance, Oranges" during a visit to the Art League Gallery last year. Today's visit to view the art all around my house was the second year in a row. It's a treat for all of us!

Today's Purchase: "Yellow Onions"

I've really enjoyed talking to everyone attending the home shows, the holiday show and here for private tours. Each purchaser has carefully chosen the pieces just right for them. My home shows are an opportunity for guests to get a good view of all aspects of my work. The house is literally covered with work -- drawings and paintings -- on three floors. There is a lot to choose from -- and I love watching visitors mark the list with works to consider.

Now there are, I think, 14 pieces fewer.

More Good News

I've been working for a number of days finishing up a portrait for Christmas delivery. I worked two really long days only to "erase" everything I'd done that night or the next morning. Every day I worked on it, I was trying to make that the day I finished. Today, I did.

Today's Purchase: "Orange Chunks"

It's been awhile since I fought that big a battle with a painting. My strategy for the day was to change venues (different studio), spend more time getting ready (nice piles of paint, neater palette, figuring out what really needed to be done), and approaching it like this was the first day of working on it. (Memory erasure/attitude change.)

Phew!

Tomorrow I'm thinking Christmas.

Current Exhibitions

Another Painting of Lemons and "Barn Dance"

2011-12-12T21:58:00.006-05:00

"Barn Dance" found a new owner.

Sunday at the Holiday Art Show and Sale, "Barn Dance" got a new owner. There's a bit of a twang for me and I imagine, quite a lot of collectors out there. There is something intriguing about that painting and I hear the ruckus in the barn just looking at it.

Just one more reason to bring my easel out to the farm as soon as I can.

Today, I had a short time to paint ... so chose a small new one: "Lemon Spiral." I didn't cut the perfect peel, but hopefully you get the picture. With so many of the Beanie Baby Series gone, I wanted a few more little ones to fill in the "holes in my cupboard." "Lemon Spiral" is a good partner to "Orange Chunks." It's not the greatest photo ... Sorry about that!

Current Exhibitions

"Lemon Spiral," 6"x6", oil on panel, copyright Jill Banks 2011

Great Day at the Holiday Art Show and Sale

2011-12-10T21:48:00.000-05:00

My "booth" at the Holiday Art Show & Sale today

Today was a really great day.

It is my birthday. I spent it hanging out around my "booth" at the Great Falls Studios Holiday Art Show and Sale ... talking with a steady flow of visitors about art. This is a regular event with friendly, familiar faces -- artists and visitors alike. Many came by who had attended last Tuesday's Open House to tell me how much they loved seeing all my work in the home setting.

"Cat's Meow"

I thought that many people left Tuesday night with visions of a particular painting. That was true ... and today five paintings and one drawing were packaged up and taken home by my Tuesday visitors. Gone to new homes are:
"Pretty Girl Hen"
"Cat's Meow"
"Kiwi"
"Dragon Breath"
"Ostrich and Polka Dots"
"Tower Bridge"

"Kiwi"

I made a new discovery today. For the Open House, I felt bad that I didn't have more time to spend with each guest. I talked to one couple today who had come to the party -- and mentioned I'd wished we had a chance to visit. They loved that they had the opportunity to wander through the house looking at and shopping for art. They liked being on their own. Aha! I never thought about it that way! (That's the way I like to browse/shop for most things -- at my own pace, without assistance.) And, now I can see it -- everyone criss-crossing on the stairs with their master list in their hands, figuring out their favorites, with smiles on their faces.

Tomorrow (Sunday, December 11) I'll be back at the Holiday Art Show and Sale from 10am-5pm at the Village Green Day School, 790 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA. I hope you have a chance to stop in!

Exhibits and Events

Holiday Art Show & Sale, December 10&11, 10am-5pm, Village Green Day School, 790 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA

"Tower Bridge" ink wash and pen&ink

Home Studio Open House: Ho! Ho! Ho!

2011-12-09T23:32:00.002-05:00

Deck the halls

Jingle bells.

On Tuesday, our house was full of lots of happy people ... enjoying visiting with each other and touring three levels of artwork hung amidst garlands and lights. The Home Studio Open House is my favorite event of the year. It's my way of thanking people who support me through collecting my work or taking classes or cheering me on. That means I've got to make it one heck of a party.

Some dining room shenanigans

You'd think I'd learn on my third year with this event ... but each year I forget (or get too busy) to take photographs before and during the party in full swing. So you just get quieter views of the evening. Pretend there are lots more people. The walls are also, inevitably, missing a few pieces that were packaged and taken home. I also realized ... afterward ... that I hadn't photographed some of the pieces that were purchased. One had just been framed the day before.

I took this photo today ... before I tore the place up for this weekend's show

The best part of the party is the guests. I know some beautiful people ... and they all were shining Tuesday night. Reston founder Bob Simon, my Face #100 came ... but had to leave (around 9pm) to go on to another party. At 97. Some of my students-to-be and ongoing students and fellow artists were there ... so discussions covered palettes and paints. I even gave a tour of my freezer ... to show where I keep my palette of paints fresh for the next session.

I missed some of my regular Open House attendees ... only to find they had pretty solid excuses not to make it.

I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the neighbors across the street. Fiona had watched Randy and I pull out of the driveway in separate cars on Tuesday around noon (for the party start at 1pm). She rightly guessed that Randy was heading to Costco and I was going to the grocery store. She probably wondered why we hadn't taken care of our errands already. I talked to them about my 100 Faces in 100 Days project. I kept thinking this year that they must be curious why a different person showed up at my door each day to disappear for a few hours and then head home. Suspicious activity on the block.

Our backyard neighbors couldn't make it on Tuesday ... so they were invited over Wednesday night. They moved in this past summer and have two really cute young sons who we have a blast watching play. What a treat to have them occupy the house and get to know their parents better. I throw few parties. The house is rarely neat. I decorated early. I'm using every opportunity to make the most of a party-ready house I can. Now I know neighbors in front of us and in back. We better behave.

Kitchen cheer

There was some art shopping taken care of that evening.

Gone to very good new homes are:
"Red Tractor"
"W&OD BBQ"
"Gone Wild Turkey"
"Watching Francie's Back"
Many more, I think, are being considered for another day.

I feel honored that guests came during this ridiculously busy time of year. I love that they wanted to. Thank you!

The party didn't all go smoothly. We had driveway troubles. The driveway twists and turns with one side being our neighbors lawn and the other side, a cliff. Add some darkness and you get three tires on the driveway and one up in the air. Not a good thing. It did keep all the rest of the guests parking in the cul de sac.

Randy was in charge of copying the list of paintings, outlined room by room. That took him an hour and a half as the job was too much for the copiers at Kinko's. That meant the Costco run -- food -- didn't arrive until a little after the start of the party. So much for looking prepared. I swear I was born one hour late and have never been able to catch up.

Getting ready for this event is crazy. I went a bit (understatement) overboard ... as usual... in the "hanging art" department. There are more than 150 pieces hung or placed throughout the house. Funny thing is that I skipped entering several local shows because I couldn't figure out what pieces I could spare from my open house. My studio space in the Artists' Atelier is bare. It's all here.

Actually, now some of it is at the Holiday Art Show and Sale for the weekend ... but it will return here on Monday for another Open House to come.

And soon, I'm going to REALLY get back into my painting routine. I go a little nuts when life gets in between me and my easel. That's what hatched the 100 Days project.

The Home Studio Open House is what kept me from blogging regularly for LOTS of days. Sorry about that!

Exhibits and Events

Holiday Art Show & Sale, December 10&11, 10am-5pm, Village Green Day School, 790 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA

Setting Up for the Holiday Show and Sale

2011-12-09T21:56:00.005-05:00

Part of what you'll see from me at the Holiday Art Show & Sale, December 10&11

Today I spent setting up for this weekend's Holiday Show & Sale. Saturday and Sunday, December 10&11, 10am-5pm ... I'll be at the Great Falls Studios Holiday Show and Sale at the Village Green Day School, 790 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA.

Randy and I were at the School tonight ... setting up along with my Great Falls Studios art buddies. Show neighbor, photographer Dean Souleles commented that my display was "dense." And other neighbor, Val Mahon said I was prolific. I may thin it out a bit tomorrow morning before the doors open. But you'll see recent still lifes, paintings from my Feather and Furry Friends series, and the Beanie Baby Series. I do almost all my Christmas shopping at this event each year. Art makes a very welcome gift.

News and photos from this week's Open House coming soon. Go to my blog for the latest post.

Exhibits and Events

Holiday Art Show & Sale, December 10&11, 10am-5pm, Village Green Day School, 790 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA

This isn't a great view ... but here's more you can see more easily this weekend.

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

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

Finishing Paintings

2011-11-30T21:40:00.002-05:00

"Eggplant, Tomatoes and Figs," oil on Raymar panel, 8"h x 16"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

Just quickly ... today I'm working on finishing stuff. (Like signing paintings, touching up work, ordering frames, odds and ends.)

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

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

Exhibits and Events

Great Falls Studios Holiday Show and Sale, December 10 & 11, 10am-5pm at the Village Green Day School, Walker Road, Great Falls, VA

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

Tied to My Desk

2011-11-27T20:51:00.000-05:00

"Elf and the Chandelier," graphite & colored pencil, ©Jill Banks 2009

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

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

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

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

Here are some drawings from Christmases past for now.

Exhibits and Events

Great Falls Studios Holiday Show and Sale, December 10 & 11, 10am-5pm at the Village Green Day School, Walker Road, Great Falls, VA

"The Nutcracker," graphite, ©Jill Banks 2010. Private colllection.

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

The Kitchen The Morning After...

2011-11-25T22:02:00.002-05:00

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

... Thanksgiving.

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

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

I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!

Exhibits and Events

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

Time to Sign It

2011-11-20T16:45:00.001-05:00

"The Writer," oil, 24"h x 20"w, private collection

Today had two major agenda items. One: Work on my 100 Faces in 100 Days book. Two: Take a completed (according to me) portrait to my client for approval (hopefully).

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

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

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

"Jenny," oil, private collection

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

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

Exhibits & Events

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

"The Patil Family," oil, private collection

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

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

2011-11-17T21:43:00.002-05:00

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

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

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

The Treasury of Art is the largest art show of the year in Vienna, VA. It's just this weekend, so:

"Shalonda," oil, 24"h x 18"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

Friday, November 18: 10am-9pm
Saturday, November 19: 10am-9pm
Sunday, November 20, Noon-4pm
at the Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry Street,
Vienna, VA.
There's an Awards Reception Friday night, 7-9pm.

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

Exhibits & Events

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

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

"The Poker Club": Day Two

2011-11-14T23:14:00.000-05:00

"The Poker Club" work in progress, oil, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

Tonight was Day Two -- painting my Dad's Poker Club buddies "live" at their condo. It was quite a night ... and my models are getting a very big kick out of being captured together in paint.

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

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

That's it for tonight. Time to rest.

Web Site Updates

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

Exhibits & Events

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

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

The Art Connection

2011-11-13T21:39:00.003-05:00

"Pumpkin Pie," oil, 12"h x 12"w by Jill Banks

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

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

This is what has happened lately.

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

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

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

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

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

The Reston Bike Club Meeting

1st Place Winner: "W&OD BBQ" at the Reston Bike Club Annual Meeting

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

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

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

Web Site Updates

Exhibits & Events

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

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

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

2011-11-09T06:39:00.002-05:00

"Pretty Girl Hen" is in International Online Exhibit

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

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

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

Beanie Babies Both Win Honorable Mentions in the Art League's
"Small Works" November Show

"Kiwi," oil, 6"h x 6"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

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

Randy Sat for My Portrait Class

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

"Ostrich and Polka Dots," oil, 6"h x 6"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

Now, I can't believe he offered and did this. He's been my very reluctant sitter the various times I've wanted to place him into one of my paintings. It's just hard for Randy to sit still.

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

Web Site Updates

Exhibits & Events

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

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

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

"The Poker Game": Day One

2011-11-07T23:19:00.001-05:00

"The Poker Club" work in progress, oil on linen, 30"h x 40"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

I will have to write another post (not tonight) about Randy modeling for my last day of Portrait class.

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

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

My dad & mom with me (the smocked one) in the background

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

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

Exhibits & Events

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

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

Treasure Trove of Drawings and Musings on the Poker Club

2011-11-06T19:14:00.000-05:00

Found: Drawings

"Male Portrait," conté by Jill Banks

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

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

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

"Reclining Nude, Back," graphite, Sketch & Wash pencil and wash

Since going to the framer, many more drawings have shown up that are Group #1 worthy. So more trips to come.

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

"Sepia Reclining Nude," watercolor & pencil

"Head Scarf and Red Skirt," red, white& black charcoal by Jill Banks

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

"Great Falls Village Center Lamppost," ink wash & pen&ink

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

Expressions Portrait Competition Reception

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

Exhibits & Events

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

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

The Art League Blog Covers Out & About Norfolk Event

2011-11-05T14:10:00.001-04:00

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

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

The Art League's Plein Air Painters Visit Norfolk

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

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

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

Congratulations!

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

Exhibits & Events

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

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

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

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

2011-11-04T21:30:00.003-04:00

"Orange Slices," oil, 6"h x 6"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

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

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

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

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

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

Exhibits & Events

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

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

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

2011-11-02T21:27:00.000-04:00

Not necessarily in that order.

The newly varnished "NYC Street" on our mantel

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

Perhaps spurred on by collectors turning October into a very financially successful month and upcoming art sales events, Randy's helping out in new ways. He's now in the push-me-to-finish business, meaning Randy is:

collecting unframed drawings (a big job)
looking for paintings that are missing my signature (and getting me to sign them)
figuring out which paintings need to be varnished (and varnishing them)
figuring out which paintings need to be framed and checking the frame inventory to see what we need to order/select

These are all tasks that need to be done to turn this artwork into purchasable/ready-to-hang art. And yet, they are all exceedingly difficult to get around to doing, i.e., my most procrastination-prone pile of "stuff to do."

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

Saturday

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

The Phillips Collection

90th Anniversary Birthday Bash

Saturday, November 5

10am-8pn

Free admission

On the day D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray has proclaimed "Phillips Collection Day," celebrate the museum's 90th anniversary with a day of free activities, gallery talks, and live music. Highlights include:

Free admission to Degas's Dancers at the Barre: Point and Counterpoint
Cupcake party favors while supplies last (10am-noon)
Hands-on art-making inspired by Will Ryman's outdoor sculpture of colossal pink roses (10am-noon)
Hourly gallery talks on Renoir's Luncheon of the Boating Party and European Masterworks (11am-6pm)
"Happy Birthday" sing-along led by Ben Eisler from ABC7/WJLA-TV (noon)
Ballet students from the Kirov Academy of Ballet of Washington D.C. practicing in the Degas exhibition (12:30-3:00pm)
Interactive self-guide to the collection by illustrator Elizabeth Graeber
Musical performances throughout the day, featuring Parisian-inspired accordionist Manny Bobenrieth, the Capital Hearings a cappella group, Teiber Trio, Tommy Cecil Quartet, Yvonne Johnson Trio and DJ Neville C.
Cash bar with wine, beer, champagne, and light snacks (4:15-8:00pm)

Sponsored by AON Huntington Block Insurance. Media partner ABC7/WJLA-TV.

Exhibits & Events

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

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

I Added Some Lilies...

2011-11-01T21:34:00.000-04:00

"Osage-Oranges, Lilies and Purple" work in progress, 24"h x 18"w, oil by Jill Banks

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

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

Exhibits & Events

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

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

Some More Work on "Osage-Oranges and Purple"

2011-10-31T21:34:00.002-04:00

"Osage-Oranges and Purple" work in progress, oil, 24"h x 18"w, ©Jill Banks 2011

This still life setup looked as tired as its painter. I haven't figured out how I can finish it. Do I find new flowers that resemble these? I went hunting for large red leaves to replace their shriveled cousins. I found red leaves ... but not like these. I love the color combination here and want to work at bringing it to life with a backlight on the petals from the window... something I had worked on with "Sunlight, Sunflowers and Orange."

My portrait class was terrific today. It always is, but today we had a one day pose and I asked everyone to concentrate just on the portrait. I was noticing that by doing warm-ups each day encompassing the whole figure, when it came time to address the long pose, they kept painting whole or almost whole figures with little tiny faces. So, today -- no warm-ups. With only one day to work on it, they made a lot more progress than they might have if they thought they had more time. Maybe I should keep the number of sessions available a secret.

"Sunlight, Sunflowers and Orange" is currently on exhibit in the Artists' Atelier Gallery

Exhibits & Events

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

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

Portrait Painting and Peppers

2011-10-30T21:42:00.002-04:00

"Lots of Peppers," oil, 24"h x 36"w, ©Jill Banks 2011. Sold.

Sooner or later, I promise you're going to see either a new painting or one in progress ... but today was spent happily working on a portrait commission (no photos until reveal day) and meeting with collectors.

Two paintings were purchased today ... but I'm not sure which two. Okay, that must be confusing. "Lots of Peppers" ... definitely has a new owner. The second purchase is a toss-up between two of my NYC scenes, to be determined later in the week. What's become evident lately is just how difficult it is to choose among different pieces. I sometimes think that's easy. When I'm in a gallery or show with multiple artists, one piece jumps out as the one I most want to take home with me. When you're looking at many pieces from the same artist, the choice is much tougher. You're comparing apples to apples. It's harder to choose a favorite.

Expressions Portrait Exhibit at ArtSpace Herndon Opens

"Tranquility," 30"h x 24"w, oil, © Jill Banks 2010

Today, while I was working on my portrait commission, Randy delivered my painting "Tranquility" to ArtSpace Herndon for the Expressions Portrait Exhibit. The opening reception for the show is Saturday, November 5 at 7pm at 750 Center Street, Herndon, VA 20170. I know many of the finalists in the show that's sponsored by the Council of the Arts of Herndon ... and congrats to all:

Suzanne Lago Arthur ◊ Jill Banks ◊ Carol Berman ◊ Paul Gayter ◊ Gavin Glakas ◊ Evan Goldman ◊ Penny Hauffe ◊ Pamela Jarrett ◊ Adrienne Kralick ◊ Christine Lashley ◊ Cathleen Lawless ◊ Derek McGowan ◊ Patricia McMahon Rice ◊ Patrice McPeak ◊ Mireille Molette ◊ Paguntalan ◊ Susan Avis Murphy ◊ Gonzalo Navarro ◊ Aaron Pavelis ◊ Mary Pedini ◊ Mary Reilly ◊ Barrett Ripin ◊ Abel A. Rivera ◊ Claudia Samper ◊ Lorena Selim ◊ Bruce Skillicorn ◊ David Tanner ◊ Eric Westbrook ◊ Jordan Xu ◊ Lester Yocum

I'll see you at the reception.

The exhibit runs November 1 -22, 2011. Go to the ArtSpace Herndon web site for open hours.

Plenty of Purchases

Good thing I've been drinking out of my lucky cup lately. (I have a cup for coffee with special powers.) I'm not sure exactly how to account for which sales go with which months ... but based on transactions, 15 of my paintings and drawings were purchased in October. Many more finally made it to their new homes ... so I'll be dealing with a crisis of my own. When those paintings leave the Atelier or my walls at home ... I realize I need to paint, paint, paint.

Exhibits & Events

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

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

Rain or Shine ... But Not Snow

2011-10-29T21:41:00.003-04:00

The Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club Reception in NYC

The last two days' have been filled with intentions ... not very well met. Yesterday, Randy and I headed up to NYC to go to the Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club Awards Reception at the National Arts Club ... only to be stuck in huge traffic jams throughout the New Jersey turnpike. Instead of arriving early so that we would have a chance to really look at the show and meet/talk to other artists, we got there about one hour late ... right when the crowd was sitting down to dinner. We took what appeared to be the last two seats left.

It was sort of a bumpy night but we were seated, by chance, at the table of the Honored Member of the Year, Gabriella Gonzalez Delloso -- a phenomenal painter. We weren't in a position to really talk across the table but I would have loved to hear about her journey to get where she is today.

The road home.

We spent a little time out and about last night in the city. It is a magical place, made a bit more enchanting around Halloween. People watching is even more interesting when the people are in costumes. There were parties going on everywhere. Randy and I ducked in a pizza joint where the fare is $1 a slice ... to be met with some Halloweeners whose costumes/makeup made it hard to eat. On the way back to the hotel, we passed by a grocery store being patronized by three super heroes. You've got to smile about that.

I had planned to join the Salmagundi Club members for a paint out scheduled for this morning. That was rescheduled for next Saturday ... via email on our way up yesterday. The event was rain or shine ... but not freezing rain or snow. Randy and I went out for brunch instead ... just going a few blocks away and ending up sopping wet, freezing cold ... a mess. The food was good, though ... at Brooklyn Bagel and Coffee Company ... where we'd popped in to warm up. It was time to give in, change plans, and head home. Tomorrow I'm painting ... inside the warmth of my studio. Sounds perfect.

Exhibits & Events

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

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

Buried In Stuff I Don't Know How to Do...And Some I Do

2011-10-27T21:36:00.001-04:00

The last two days have been mainly non-painting days taking care of lots on my "to do" list. My taking time out to write this blog is due to being completely stumped as to how to check off one of those items that requires a knowledge of Photoshop Elements that I just don't possess. I may need to throw in that particular towel.

I did manage to make some decisions and apply to one major show. (That's good.)

I put together a package for a client giving a commissioned painting-to-be to a friend. For that, I handmade a mini portfolio of works similar in scope to the gift. It's a pretty present to give that offers the recipient a glimpse of what's to come. Putting that together caused me to learn a bit more about Word ... so I could put in a background for the portfolio pages that would actually print. And, I earned some practice with a special tape dispenser for use in mounting photos. I'm sure all of these newly acquired skills bode well for my future as an artist.

"Lots of Peppers" will come home with me this weekend from the National Arts Club, NYC

Tomorrow night I'm attending the awards reception for the Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club at the National Arts Club in Gramercy Park, NYC. My "Lots of Peppers" is in the show ... and I missed the opening Benefit Reception on the Friday before Studio Tour. I'm looking forward to seeing the show, introduce myself as a newly juried full member of the group and applaud the award winners. On Saturday morning, I'm planning to join members of the Salmagundi Club for a paint out. I'm not a member, but artists are welcome to join them for the last scheduled paint out of the season. The weather's not looking promising but I guess that's what you get in late October. This time around I'll bring a scarf and extra layers. I'm looking forward to painting in NYC. Especially with this group. I may try my hand at some ink washes tomorrow ... to get extra time creating. Hopefully I'll have something visual to post.

Unfortunately, by now, the Still Life I started on Tuesday is long gone and I'll have to replace those objects with something new to finish it next week. Or something like that.

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

"Tranquility" is a finalist in the Expressions Portrait Exhibit

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

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

"Osage-Oranges and Purple" Painting in Progress

2011-10-25T19:56:00.000-04:00

"Osage Oranges and Purple" work in progress, 24"h x 18"w, oil, ©Jill Banks 2011

Today for Still Life class, students brought in a vast array of treasures. We had every corner covered and even some extra, very paintable subjects to ignore. Trina brought in these flowers (I don't know what they are) and purple vase and osage-oranges ... and this setup inevitably "called me" the most. (They were all tempting.) I moved the arrangement ... that's fading fast upstairs to my studio to paint in the afternoon. I have a feeling the flowers will be down to the tabletop by the time I can get back to them tomorrow.

In the next two days, I have a lot to do ... but they are unscheduled. That's a relief.

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11

My grouping of three. I had the only elephant in the room.

Looking Back on the Week

2011-10-24T21:40:00.003-04:00

Accepting Award #2 from Out&About Norfolk's organizer, artist Karen Kinser

I'm posting a few more photos from the days in Norfolk at Out & About. Today I taught and worked on a portrait commission ... so I can't show you today's work. (But it went well.)

This will be an assortment.

An amazing still life from the Chrysler. This is huge ... and more complicated than even my dad has set up for me. I figure by posting this I could make my Still Life class nervous that I'll get some ideas. I think this guy can paint. According to the signage in the Chrysler Museum, Berne-Bellecour painted primarily military subjects and battle scenes. This is a rare still life for him, but he utilized his expertise in depicting military braid and armor on the gorgeous silver, glass and ceramics shown here.


"La Desserte" ("End of the Meal) by Etienne-Prosper Berne-Bellecour (French, 1838-1910), oil on canvas, 1876

Lynn Mehta's group of three at the show.

A couple of Art League Plein Air Painters were also participants at Out & About. I loved Lynn Mehta's work ... for which she garnered an in the French Tradition prize (for my favorite of hers with the star hanging below) and a red dot -- sold sticker for the one above it.

I loved a painting by Gray Dodson. She captured the silvery tones of water and showed the sun with an aqua glow around it. I really wish I had a photo to show you. It is a real stunner.

These days were truly an adventure. I remember walking into the room at the reception. My three paintings were the first in the show. Colored stars were hanging from two of them. I figured that was a good sign.

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11

My grouping of three. I had the only elephant in the room.

Saturday at the Chrysler Museum

2011-10-23T18:00:00.001-04:00

My last four days have centered around the Chrysler Museum. On Wednesday, when we arrived -- that's one of the first places we explored -- pretty much running through this massive, beautiful collection. I picked out favorites and amazing surprises early ... and those stuck in my head while I painted. There's a special exhibit going on now, "Our Community Collects" -- with pieces on loan from private collections throughout the Hampton Road area. What treasures! Since you can't take photos in the temporary exhibits, I can't show you ... but in there is a John Singer Sargent (American, 1856-1925) watercolor, "Biblioteca Marciana, Venice" that I wish were hanging in my house.


"At the Florist" 1889, Frederick Childe Hassam (American, 1859-1935), Chrysler Collection

The Chrysler Museum holds a collection of 30,000 works of art. I spent a good bit of Saturday between handing in my paintings and the reception looking back through the museum. This piece of Frederick Childe Hassam is stunning. I love how the woman's apron ties in with the wraps around the flowers and the wall of flowers mimics the headpieces of the women in the background.

"MacPherson and MacDonald" 1918, Gari Melchers (American, 1860-1932)

I got a kick out this painting of two Scotsmen by Gari Melchers. They'd come from the battleground to participate in a parade in New York. Melchers wrote to his wife about meeting these two men who couldn't be more paintable. I can relate. There's a sense of humor at play here, too. Both painter and collector obviously appreciated it.

On the Chrysler Museum's home page, they offer a warm welcome to all. That's just how the place feels. There's someone to open the front door for you, who immediately greets you with a "Welcome to the Chrysler" --like they mean it. Entrance is free. All the museum employees are enthusiastic, knowledgeable, friendly. This is exactly as it should be. On Saturday, I entered a gallery of white marble sculptures for the first time. There was a table with black papers and white pastel pencils for visitors to try their hand at drawing from those "models." I would have done so if Randy hadn't done enough waiting around for me -- for days. Pretty cool, though.

Favorite piece: "Returning from Mass" c. 1920, Francisco Gras

As tough as it is to choose, my favorite painting there is "Returning from Mass" (c. 1920) by Spanish painter Francisco Gras (1897-1941). Gras studied with Joaquin Sorolla in 1915 (lucky him!) and Gras must have been listening. This painting shares the quality of light and color for which Sorolla is the master.

Read more about the Chrysler Museum and collector Walter P. Chrysler, Jr on the Museum's web site: www.chrysler.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, Awards Reception, Friday, October 28

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11

Great Reception and Two Awards

2011-10-22T21:44:00.000-04:00

Really quick ...

"Elephant at the Norfolk Zoo" won a Purchase Award ... which means its sold to the sponsor and
"Chrysler Museum Memorial Garden" won the Raymar Art Award ... and with it, I'm taking home panels and a panel carrier. Apropos since all three of my entries were painted on Raymar panels.

I feel extremely fortunate to have won these awards. The show was great. The reception was packed. A great night and event.

Sayonara ... for now.

Read my earlier post from today for more.

The Paintings Are In ... At Out & About Norfolk

2011-10-22T15:10:00.000-04:00

This morning, I turned in three of my paintings ... just under the wire for the Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Competition. The 37 juried artists all had two (and a half -- if they had the energy) days to paint wherever we wanted within the Norfolk city limits. I painted in three spots. The first was outside of the Chrysler Museum (I'll talk about that amazing place later) in the Memorial Garden. That's where I froze my patootsies off and almost blew away for about five hours on Thursday. Because I'd painted there from 9:15am to 2:30pm on Thursday, I went back on Friday morning to reestablish lights and darks ... as they were when I'd started it the day before. The painting was too big for me to have clearly established those patterns for the entire painting the first morning... especially under such challenging conditions.

By the way, yesterday -- when Randy and I were out at Waterside -- we talked to another painter, Bill, who painted from inside his car on Thursday. Smart move. I'll be interested in how other pros handled the day when we meet up at the reception this (Saturday) evening. There is much that just comes from experience -- merging what you like to paint with what's best to paint in the current conditions.

On Thursday late afternoon, I started "Eat at Joe's at Waterside" which looked a lot like a jigsaw puzzle. I returned to give it another shot as my third entry yesterday. I'm not sure what I think about it -- but I did turn it in. You may see it later.

Yesterday afternoon I painted in the Norfolk Zoo ... a fantastic place that I wish we had in the DC area. I could have painted in a ton of spots there. They have a great train for tots and their adult companions that ran around the zoo. We ate lunch before heading for a space for me to set up my easel ... and I kept looking at families coming up the path with the sunlight on their backs ... up to the railroad crossing signs. I needed to paint there around noon, though, for the best light. When I returned to the spot mid-afternoon, its luster had been tamed a good bit.

What I thought I'd paint were the lions. They take long naps in the sunshine, right? It appears I was wrong. The two males and one female moved around a good bit. If they weren't moving, I couldn't get a good enough angle. If they were lying down and paintable, they'd roll around to scratch their backs. The result: I have a painting with hints of the many lion gestures of the day.

When they were no longer in view at all, I moved to the elephants and there I was able to capture what I think is a pretty great portrait of an elephant. I used two models for this ... as my first one decided to take on a different pose and spent the rest of my painting session swinging his trunk to and fro, performing a little dance ... for some reason. My second model was a good distance from me. I'd love to be at a safe, but closer, distance to get a better view. I didn't realize they had such long eyelashes and peach fuzz on the tops of their heads. They did have a huge contingent of admirers.

It did take a bit of convincing to get permission to paint in the zoo. I will say that people, especially the kids, really got a kick out of my being there. I was in my pthalo'ed, now a bit scary looking smock -- so I clearly was the token artist of the day. People took real interest ... and I was part of the educational package for parents. I met many shorter (younger) artists who I think were heading home to paint some animals of their own.

After the zoo, we headed back toward Waterside ... for more painting on "Eat at Joe's at Waterside" and we were finally lured away (to call it a day) by some great music coming from the Waterside Fountain Garden. Two performers were playing & singing our kind of songs with the sun setting behind them over the Elizabeth River. We sat in deep cushioned chairs. Watched kids dancing. It was the first time I really relaxed in a few days. Pretty terrific end to the day.

So, this morning, I touched up and photographed my painting entries. Randy framed them and we dropped them off, just before the 11am deadline. Tonight, from 6-9pm is the reception and Wet Painting sale at the second floor at Waterside. In the meantime, we're hanging out and seeing a bit more of the city.

Next up, either a nap or the MacArthur Museum.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, Awards Reception, Friday, October 28

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11

I Got Pthalo'd ... and Phew!

2011-10-20T20:11:00.000-04:00

Holding on for dear life in the Chrysler Museum Memorial Garden. Crazy day!!!!

Pthalo blue, actually Pthalo any color, is the most infectious color ... that somehow, once out of the tube, gets on everything and won't come up. It reminds me of the Dr. Suess Cat in the Hat (or Cat in the Hat comes back) when pink invades everything ... thanks to Thing One and Thing Two.

I'm at Out & About Norfolk, a plein air event and painting competition, and things are not exactly going smoothly. Today it was mid-50 to low-60 degrees with 25 mph winds. Try painting outside in that! My easel held up fine, but I was partially frozen and slapped silly by the wind for five hours straight. It was tough to aim my brush as the painting wiggled.

I was painting at the Chrysler Museum's Memorial Garden. Randy had wrapped a towel around my shoulders and neck to keep me warmer. Therein lies the problem. The towel got loose and took a trip onto my palette... to pick up ... guess what? Pthalo blue. I didn't realize it.

Randy came out from the Museum cafe, inviting me to trade places with him for a few minutes so I could warm up. He'd ordered bruschetta and iced tea ... and I slipped in and took his spot. That's when I realized my hands were blue. My smock was blue. One whole half of me was blue. Surmising that I didn't belong in a very nice cafe in my current condition ... I left, snuck to the restroom, did what little I could to clean up ... and went back outside to paint.

My garden painting turned out pretty well, but I want to return to the spot again tomorrow and catch the morning light a bit better.

Painting at sunset at Waterside in Norfolk, VA

I took a big break ... a lunch and trip to Jerry's Artarama for some supplies ... before going out to the Waterside to paint the end of the day. There I painted "Eat at Joe's" that may or may not make it to primetime. It looks a bit crazed. Paintings reflect the painter.

I hope it's a bit easier tomorrow. I'm whupped.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11

"Eggplant, Tomatoes and Figs" Painting ... Plus Off to Norfolk

2011-10-18T21:44:00.001-04:00

I squeezed this one in ... and now I have to go pack up canvases, paints, tools, tarps, hats, clothes, turpenoid, frames, and lots of other stuff for the rest of the week's plein air adventure at Out & About Norfolk. I'll be scoping out spots to paint tomorrow afternoon and have a welcome dinner in the evening. Then lots of painting ahead. I'm really looking forward to it ... just wish someone else could pack for me. What do you suppose I'll forget?

UPCOMING EVENTS

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11

Another Happy Studio Tour Day

2011-10-16T21:13:00.002-04:00

"Kensington Gardens"

Despite a Redskins game, we had a steady, enthusiastic crowd today as well for the Great Falls Art Studios Tour. Young and old(er) came out to enjoy the day of art and inspiration. I'm exhausted ... as are the rest of my studiomates ... as are I bet artists all around Great Falls. We had 48 artists participating, opening up their studios for anyone who wanted to come take a look. It's funny. Everything gets examined. Like the rubber mats that line our floor to help our feet make it through painting sessions. Or the taborets we use for storing supplies and resting our palettes.

"Elgin Marble"

A young girl came up to me with a huge happy hello. She had painted (as I had) in the Paint Herndon! competition on September 3 and we had both won an award. She even sold her award-winning painting (I didn't sell mine) -- her first sale of art for $100 at that show. When I was at the awards ceremony that night, I remember the judges commenting that it was the youngsters art that blew their socks off. This young girl was one of the big reasons why. One more note, she had been enrolled in an adult class in Reston taught by Pam Coulter for a session ... and then wasn't in class the next term. The Reston Community Center wouldn't allow young people in an adult class. I think that's a shame. Why? We'd have some amazing artists if they started with real art education early on.

Personally, I had an amazing weekend. I met and saw so many people who love my work ... and who had a difficult time figuring out which ones they liked best. Many purchased work ... and here's my rundown of work that's found some happy new homes this weekend:

"Give Me A Kiss"

"Kensington Gardens": an ink wash/pen & ink drawing from my trip to London this Spring went to one of my friends from Rob Liberace's class
"Elgin Marble": a graphite drawing done in the British Museum of a horse's head from the Parthenon
"Give Me A Kiss": the frog beanie baby went to a volunteer at the Great Falls Library where I've held several solo shows. She bought this on Saturday.
"Who Goes There?": the mouse beanie baby afraid of its own shadow went to the same purchaser as "Give Me A Kiss" -- just one day later.
"White Peonies" went home with one of my 100 Faces and her husband
"Sprinkles and Dots Cupcake" went home with another one of my 100 Faces, friend, fellow artist and enthusiastic collector


"Who Goes There?"

"Il Gatto" went home with former neighbors who were finally able to make it to one of my (many) art events. My Italian cat reminded her of all the cats in Greece that hung out next to green shutters.

Pretty exciting, rewarding, cool day. Thank you to everyone who came, talked, shared, listened and shopped this weekend.

This week's a bit nuts ... but it should make for some good blog posts.

Time for bed.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

"White Peonies"

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11

"Il Gatto"

"Sprinkles and Dots Cupcake"

Studio Tour Day One

2011-10-15T21:21:00.000-04:00

My throat's strained (from so much talking). One eye is worn out (from too little sleep). But today was an excellent day one of the Great Falls Studio Tour. Hopefully, tomorrow will be the same.

We figure that about 250 or so tour-goers crossed through the door of the Artists' Atelier (where I share working studio space with 15 other artists at 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA) and most stayed and enjoyed long visits talking about art, the process, inspiration, tools, working setup, media ... etc. I saw some faces twice today ... they'd bring back someone else to let them enjoy this once-a-year event. Many return year after year ... and realized how much difference a year makes in an artist's life. We have evidence ... paintings/artwork ... to show for the past twelve months.

There were so many great stories from today. A mom and two of her kids came in, interested in classes because she saw the beautiful painting that the youngest member (a 13-year-old) of my Still Life class created ... as his first oil painting, ever. My young star's artwork is recruiting for me. (Thanks, Cormac!) I may be teaching a new family full.

Some came offering me inspiration. I've always loved involving others in my art-making ... like having my Dad set up my large-scale still lifes for me so you can witness his beautiful vision, too. I love horses and want to paint them. Someone I painted recently (for "Last Few Pages") is offering a pasture of horses, a donkey and pony to paint. I am thrilled about this! I met a docent from the National Portrait Gallery who saw my 100 Faces in the library -- who offered a special tour of the museum. These are the things that make me feel like I've died and gone to heaven. (That keeps happening.)

One of the great pleasures is to witness how much someone loves what you've created and that a work moves him/her. Many of my visitors told me how a piece of mine made them feel. "Merry Go Round" brings on happiness. (I truly loved painting it -- every brushstroke. I get it.)

I didn't take many photos. I was busy!

Tomorrow, we're "on" again for Studio Tour Day Two, Sunday, October 16, 10am-5pm. I hope you can come!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Oct. 15&16, 10am-5pm

Artists‘ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National,Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11

Studio Tour Tomorrow

2011-10-14T21:53:00.000-04:00

Come see all nine Beanie Baby paintings tomorrow and Sunday (October 15 & 16) for the 8th Annual Great Falls Studio Tour.

I'll be at the Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA.

Saturday and Sunday, October 15&16, 10am-5pm! See you soon!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Oct. 15&16, 10am-5pm

Artists‘ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National

Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, NYC, Nov. 1-11
To read more about the 100 Faces in 100 Days project on my web site (www.jillbanks.com), go to the 100 Faces Project Pages 1 and 2 where you can see all 100 of my volunteers. Click on the paintings, and go to my blog post for that person's sitting.

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

(I'm still getting ready so ... I have to go.)

"Pretty Girl Hen" Is A Finalist

2011-10-14T10:32:00.000-04:00

"Pretty Girl Hen," oil, 14"h x 11"w,

I just got word that "Pretty Girl Hen" is a finalist in the Richeson75 Animal and Wildlife Online Competition. That means she'll be part of the online exhibition opening November 15 and published in a show catalog that can be ordered through Richeson. Finalists will be juried for award by Morten E. Solberg. "Pretty Girl Hen" is available for purchase during the Great Falls Studio Tour this weekend at my studio, the Artists' Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA 22066. See more info under Upcoming Events below.

Two more paintings ("Blue" and "Portrait of Zoe") in my Feathered and Furry Friends series were judged as Meritorious entries ... meaning they made it through several cuts but were not selected as finalists for the exhibition. There's something special about these paintings of animals -- I've loved painting every one. Perhaps painting my 100 (human) Faces this year (check out my 100 Faces in 100 Days Project) put me in better tune to find the personality in every living being.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Oct. 15&16, 10am-5pm

Artists‘ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National

The Power Went Out

2011-10-13T21:40:00.001-04:00

My Area of the Studio a Few Days Ago ... More's Been Added Since

I'd show you an updated version of the Artists' Atelier, a day and a half away from the Great Falls Studio Tour, but the power went out. We are yet under another deluge of rain. A tornado warning. Etc.

What I really wanted to show you was how Randy hung my nine Beanie Baby paintings together. They look great en masse and are now filling up the window space. Maybe a photo tomorrow?

For Studio Tour, there are 48 artists participating in 29 locations throughout Great Falls, VA. It's free. It's fun.

I don't mean this wrong ... but people buy art on the Tour. Not coming, means that piece you love, may not be there at the next event. (I only offer originals. One piece, one owner.)

The Studio Tour is the event that inspires the budding artist within. Those 48 artists are demonstrating their process, talking about their inspiration and encouraging others. I can't tell you how many people I've talked to that remind me of how a conversation I had with them at this event -- made them return to creating art. People who profess to not be artists find out a creative outlet, and art-making can be something for them, too. It's truly an amazing experience not to be missed ... for people of all ages.

Start your tour at the Artists' Atelier at 1144 Walker Road, Suites D&G, in Great Falls, VA. The Tour is Saturday and Sunday, October 15&16, 10am-5pm. We'll have refreshments ready although last year's crowds consumed every crumb we could muster. I'll be in my corner waiting to see you. We'll have brochures with maps to plan the rest of your weekend. Be a tour-goer! See you soon.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Oct. 15&16, 10am-5pm

Artists‘ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National

"Chocolate Confetti Cupcake" Painting Today

2011-10-11T21:37:00.001-04:00

I could have called this "Cupcake #3" since it's the third day in a row I've been painting these treats. All have melted by the end ... but this one managed to melt in the middle of being painted. I had to rely on my memory of it with a chocolate covered top. Tomorrow, I'll be changing subjects so this is it for cupcake treats for awhile.

Today's Still Life Class

There must be some awfully good instruction and listening going on in my Still Life class -- because beautiful paintings are popping up all over the room -- created by both new and continuing students. It's sort of shocking -- even with my high expectations for them. All three setups are complicated and interesting. They are all up to the challenge. Good thing. I seem incapable of setting up easy ones.

Lessons learned lately: It's fine to use tape or rulers to get a straight line on a painting. Grapes are painted as masses -- not as individuals. There are some really beautiful grapes happening around here.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Oct. 15&16, 10am-5pm

Artists‘ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National

Another Cupcake Painting: "Sprinkles and Dots Cupcake"

2011-10-10T19:28:00.002-04:00

I just finished "Sprinkles and Dots Cupcake" when the frosting and top turned into a mudslide. Pretty amusing to look up and discover a new shape. It would make a pretty good painting now, too.

I taught portrait class today ... with the first of three sessions with Livia. I shouldn't have told the class they have three days to work on it. It makes them worry more ... and slow waaaaay down. Their beginning sketches are looking good but if I'd kept quiet, I bet there would have been lots more paint on those canvases in all the right places.

My studio has been buzzing for at least a week with everyone preparing for Studio Tour next weekend. (Go to the Great Falls Studios web site to download/print a brochure and to register to win Art Bucks coupons to use on the tour.) Lots of framing and wiring and label making and putting up new art everywhere. Makes me think I should be working on all those things myself. I'm always looking for that elf that will take care of it all for me. Where'd that guy go?

It's time to check the fridge and see just how grotesque last week's still life objects are ... what needs to be replaced for class tomorrow. And then time to go home.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Oct. 15&16, 10am-5pm

Artists‘ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National

New Cupcake Painting: "Icing Meltdown"

2011-10-08T20:24:00.000-04:00

After carefully selecting four cupcakes at the Safeway for their "looks" -- I eventually retrieve one as my painting subject out of a complicated box. I couldn't figure out how not to damage the frosting while pulling it out (there was a collar contraption around it). But it didn't matter, since the frosting slid off about one minute after I turned a light on it. So here's a painting of an almost fully frosted Cherry cupcake that's seen better days. There was plenty more action in the studio than this ... and I apologize for the lousy photo ... put it's back to work now on my main project of the day.

"Icing Meltdown" will be one of small square paintings for sale during Studio Tour weekend next week. We're setting up a screen full of these little guys at the Artists' Atelier (1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA). There's no theme. Just small and square.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Great Falls Annual Studio Tour, Oct. 15&16, 10am-5pm

Artists‘ Atelier, 1144 Walker Road, Suite G, Great Falls, VA

Out & About Norfolk Plein Air Painting Event, October 20-22

ON EXHIBIT

Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club’s 115th Annual Open Juried Exhibit

National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, October 4-28

American Artists Professional League 83rd Grand National