Copying. When is close too close?

Copying. When is close too close?

Today I was scrolling through botanical art posts on Instagram when I felt the kind of spine-tingling sensation described by people who believe they’ve seen a ghost. I was looking at a painting of a white phalaenopsis orchid that appeared to be one I’d completed about...
To blend or not to blend? That’s the pencil question.

To blend or not to blend? That’s the pencil question.

A recent article by Robert McKinley on www.artistsnetwork.com addressing the topic of blending on paper (or canvas) to merge value transitions, caught my attention. And it’s not just because he references Leonardo da Vinci’s famous ‘sfumato’ blending application but...
An opportunity to exhibit?

An opportunity to exhibit?

I’ve recently received enough questions about exhibiting to warrant an article on the topic. Most artists welcome an opportunity to exhibit, especially if there’s a possibility of selling a piece. And if someone is willing to open their wallet for your work, it’s...
A commitment of Olympic proportions.

A commitment of Olympic proportions.

I frequently hear versions of this question: “What does it take to get to the next level? Please review my work and tell me where I need to improve.” I’ve been instructing for a long time now and of course I am in a position to do this. But my advice will not make a...
Sketch your way to successful composition

Sketch your way to successful composition

In my recent Tech Talks on Composition Concepts, I pointed out that Mother Nature seldom, if ever, gifts you with ready-to-go composition. Throughout recorded history artists of all skill levels have wrestled with the best placement of content in their paintings. The...