Mary Medrano's Blog

Loads of Time

2011-12-04T05:31:00.000-08:00

As most of you know I've been getting my house ready for sale. In a nutshell, it is now on the market and several people have already come through to have a look. Yeah!

I know I'm just a bit inaccurate when it comes to time management. Tasks that I think will take 1 hour are never less than 2 hours. A 3 hour project takes 6. You get the picture. So, under the guise of having loads of time now that the house is for sale, I write this post.

Believe it or not, I've been painting. You wouldn't know if by looking at my Facebook page but really, it's true. I've described myself as an Elf in Santa's workshop because I currently have 7 commissions. Every single one of them is a special gift for a special someone for Christmas, and everyone of them is a dog, except one awesome cat named CC. I think that stands for copy cat.

I just wanted to make time to wish you all the happiest of Holiday Seasons.

Thank you for reading and for your ongoing support.

Peace.

Mary

Toledo Museum of Art

2011-09-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

I visited the fabulous Toledo Museum of Art last week.

It is always thrilling to a see a piece of art in person that I have only previously seen in a book. The piece I saw at the museum that fell into this category was Pablo Picasso's Woman With Crow, 1904. It is stunning.

Woman With Crow, 1904

A piece of art that made me cry - Portrait of a Freedom Fighter by Julian Schnabel. I thought this was a portrait of a woman but is actually about Cuban emigre poet Reinaldo Arenas. I was not familiar with this brilliant painter, sculptor, film maker, artist. Check him out!

Portrait of a Freedom Fighter by Julian Schnabel

detail

Wall label

A little about the Toledo Museum of Art from their website: The Toledo Museum of Art’s collection of more than 30,000 works of art ranks among the finest in the United States. In our more than 35 galleries, Sculpture Garden, and Glass Pavilion, discover important, popular, and outstanding works of art, including paintings and sculptures by Bearden, Cézanne, Calder, Close, Cole, Degas, van Gogh, El Greco, Holbein, Kiefer, Matisse, Miró, Monet, Picasso, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Turner; masterworks from antiquity and Asia; decorative arts; and highlights from our renowned glass collection.

Glass blowing demonstration in their Glass Pavilion:

I highly recommend this museum. It is well staffed with friendly, helpful people. It is filled with excellent art, has a wonderful cafe, a nice gift shop, a hot shop with daily glass blowing demonstrations, it's not crowded and it's all free.

Thanks for reading.

19 Thoughts About a Series of Work

2011-08-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

A few thoughts, in hindsight about working on a series of paintings.

1) I like painting daily.
2) Painting daily improves my mood.
3) Having an end target - either date or quantity helps with completion.
4) Seeing a series develop is rewarding.
5) Developing a series takes you places you hadn't expected.
6) It can take over your life.
7) Making a postcard to announce your efforts will keep you on track. There's no turning back!
8) Sharing a body of work with others who have done the same builds very good energy.
9) Having a venue to share your efforts is the icing on the cake.
10) Anxiously awaiting the public preview is exciting.
11) Not being the center of attention is a relief.
12) Sales along the way is encouraging.
13) There is always room for improving painting technique.
14) Making a book to accompany the work is really cool and a nice way to remember the work.
15) Nice words about the work is encouraging and always appreciated.
16) Thinking about the next series is inevitable.
17) Beginning a new series initially may not live up to expectations.
18) Patience with the work and yourself is mandatory.
19) The universe knows better than the artist where you are headed. Listen.

To number 5 above, I knew my theme but I didn't really know what was to come. Day 1:

Beginning a new series of art starts here - Excitement!

To number 6 above I wrote some pretty whacked-out emails and Facebook posts. Huh?

To number 7 above, a postcard announcing the show.

Show Postcard

To number 9 above, showing at The Sanchez Art Center in Pacifica with 69 other artists. Awesome!


Me on installation day for 50 50 Show.

To number 12 above. I love my patrons.

To number 14 above. Make a book on Blurb and start a book store.

To number 15 above. I love my Facebook Fans. Thank you!

Thanks for reading.

Mary

A One Off

2011-08-16T08:54:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I see things that create such a strong impression it moves me into action.

I was at an art and wine event this past weekend at Phyllis Jenkins' Gallery of Dreams. On her studio wall she had a row of black gloves pinned to a board. She wears these gloves while painting. It was nearly my favorite thing in the whole place aside from the art, of course.

I've tried to figure out why, but really have no explanation why these gloves moved me the way they did. Maybe you know why?

Sometimes all that matters is to go with what moves you and make the art, take the picture, do whatever it takes.

5 Gloves

Thanks for reading, and thank you to Phyllis for a wonderful art and wine afternoon.

Mary

The Magic of 10

2011-08-09T05:55:00.000-07:00

When applying to a gallery or non-profit the artist generally needs to show a minimum of 10 pieces of art on a theme.

This is a number I've tried to accomplish many times over with a multitude of subjects to varying degrees of success. Yes, I have reached that number but there is another very important factor I have left out. The artist also needs to feel good enough about the work they've made that they will not only stand up for it but show it to the public.

For me the second point is more difficult than the first. I'm a pretty tough critic of my work so many don't make the cut. You all know by now I paint over paintings. That's my critic in action.

With excitement couched by a bit of apprehension, and now having completed 50 paintings of one theme and liking every single one of them, I want to climb to the highest rooftop and shout it out.

I have 50 paintings
and I like every single one of them.

Did you hear that world?

OK, for now I'll settle for you hearing it, and THANK YOU very much for listening.

Mary

50 50 ShowIII - 50 dogs in 50 days

9 Rules For Hanging Art

2011-07-19T07:25:00.000-07:00

9 Rules For Hanging Art.

1) Hang large paintings on small walls. It looks awesome!

"Center of the Universe"

2) Don't worry about whether it matches anything. If you love it, it goes.

"Big Brother", "Vacation", "Thinking Cap"

3) Don't hang just any art to fill a space. You will never enjoy it. You gotta love it.

4) Think differently about how and what to hang:

a) Look at every piece of art in your home and ask yourself if you love it. If the answer is no, take it down. Rearrange what is left. Large paintings can stand on their own. Groupings of small art looks great.

b) Hang in unusual places - bathrooms, laundry rooms, above doorways.

c) Place art on table tops, bookshelves and other small niche areas on an easel. It looks fab.

5) Most paintings look great hung on a 60" center. This means measure up from the floor 60". Half of the painting should be above that mark and half below. This is a starting point. Use your best judgment.

"Skeptical"

6) When in doubt, hang art too low rather than too high.

7) Symmetrical is usually boring. Incorporate a shelf, or make an altar. It's OK to mix large and small paintings, cool and warm, framed and unframed. Use your best judgment. Rearrange until you get something you like.

"Golden Mask"

7) Hang paintings in your bathroom. It's unexpected and the subject matter is often ooh la la - nudes, potty matters, sinks, strange and wonderful stuff that often doesn't work in other rooms.

8) Frame and hang your kids' art. It's the best there is!

"Gray Sky" by Evaline

9) Do not hang what someone else tells you to hang, unless you love it too. It's your home, do what makes you feel good. Don't worry about what other people think.

Here's an article "Picture Perfect Walls In 3 Easy Steps" from Michael's. Good technical information on how to hang art.

Thanks for reading...

Mary

Paint a Dog and Happy Hour

2011-07-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

Do you want to learn to make a painting of your precious dog's face or that silly little terrier from down the street?

What? You don't own a dog? Either do I, but I have lots of friends who own dogs and they have lots of friends who own dogs and guess what? They all have photographs of their dogs and they love to share. It's crazy good!

Come join me. I'll show you how I've been making all of these dog face paintings for the 50 50 Show. It's just for fun and it's free, and it's the Dog Days of Summer. Yeah!!

Dante in 4 Steps

Admission:
Food or drink. I'll have some veggie snacks and beverages to get us started.

When:
Saturday, July 30, 3-5pm for painting, snacking and happy hour until 7ish.

Who:
Any level painter.

Where:
My backyard. Dress for outdoors - we will enjoy whatever Mother Nature serves up.

Why:
To paint, to relax, have fun, enjoy an afternoon with other dog-loving painters.

RSVP:
Yes, by July 23 via email
I have enough tables for about 6 people. I can fit more people if necessary if some people can bring folding tables.

What to bring:
If you are already painting you probably know what to bring.

If you are wondering what to bring I'll get a supply list together soon.

I hope you can come hang out for an afternoon to paint and to eat, drink and be merry (actually, in any order you'd like.)

Mary

End of Week 4 - 28 paintings for the 50 50 Show, 22 to go!

Is There A "Right" Way To Paint?

2011-07-05T07:48:00.000-07:00

"As you begin your own creative process, realize that there is no "right" way of doing it. There is no "right" way of painting a painting, no "right" way of composing music, and no "right" way of creating your life."

That is one of the most freeing, most beautiful statements I've ever read. It's from "The Path of Least Resistance" by Robert Fritz. Thank you Lorraine for recommending this book.

For the first 3 or 4 years of painting I was intimidated by painters that were schooled. I felt inferior. I felt like they knew the "right" way to paint and I was winging it. I felt like I would never be good enough - that no gallery would ever want my paintings. Fortunately, after years of practicing my craft I realize this is all a bunch of hooey.

In the early years of learning to paint I took workshop after workshop, gathering an arsenal of skills. I painted, scraped, sanded and glued. I drew and re-drew. I tried instructor after instructor wanting to learn what they knew. I wanted to paint like them. I wanted to know what they knew - paint like they painted. I was drawn to instructors that were schooled because they had what I didn't have.

Now I realize that the best way to paint is just like me.

As I consider whether to teach a class or two this summer, to Mr. Fritz's point, anyone can do this and in a way that is "right" to them.

I am grateful to all of my teachers who shared their knowledge. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and passing along everything I know so that my students will take it and make it into their unique style.

You can be sure that the first thing I will say to my students is that there is no "right" way of doing this.

Customer Service Has Legs

2011-06-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

I was reading about what makes good customer service. Think this qualifies?

"Blue Face" was recently purchased by my neighbor, Jeannine.

"Blue Face", 60" x 48", acrylic on canvas

When it came time to deliver we realized it wouldn't fit in either of our cars. Time for Plan B. I thought we could walk it over. She doesn't live that far away. So, Sam, my husband, "Blue Face" and I went for a walk. It was a beautiful summer evening so off we went.

The painting is not that heavy it's just large. Thankfully it wasn't windy, or rainy.

Sam and "Blue Face" on Nevada Avenue

Walking "Blue Face" to his new home or was he walking himself?

Looks like "Blue Face" can walk himself to his new home

This is Sam and me crossing Lincoln Avenue. Jeannine, the new owner of the painting took this picture from across the street.

"Blue Face" crossing Lincoln Avenue

...and with the happy new owner, Jeannine, "Blue Face" is now home sweet home. Thank you, Jeannine.


Jeannine and "Blue Face" - home sweet home

Thank you, Sam for carrying the painting the whole way. That's some awesome customer service!

6 Reasons Why I'm A List Addict

2011-06-21T09:34:00.000-07:00

I make lists. I make lists from lists. I read about list-making. I cannot live without a to do list. I'm a list addict.

1) I make lists in the borders of my Sudoku book:

2) I make lists on magazine pages:

3) I have an "official" list in the Bento software on my computer:

4) I have lists on the outside of my manila folders from Webinars I listen to. Lately, everyone says 'be genuine'. Is that really something we need to be reminded of?

I just noticed this person said readers love lists. Me too.

5) Ideas for blog posts get written on this list:

6) I have a "mother of all lists" sitting right in front of me right now and I'm doing #1 on the list. Write my blog.

I just noticed I don't have Make A Painting on the list. That's a given.

Gotta run, it's 9:30 and I've got 5 more things to do today, including updating my list!

Crazy Good 50 50 Work Begins

2011-06-14T08:33:00.000-07:00

What was I thinking applying to a show where I would have to paint 50 paintings in 50 days? Crazy good stuff? Well actually, YES!

Why? Mainly because it was juried by DeWitt Cheng, a noted art writer, educator, artist, collector and curator based in San Francisco so I'm thrilled. He has exhibited at the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art, the Oakland Museum of California, and Micaela Gallery in San Francisco. He has written for numerous national magazines, served on the jury for Art for AIDS, and curated the exhibit in San Francisco. Awesome!

I also like a good challenge for me and my art and this is one.

Saturday, June 11 - Goofy me with 50 - 6"x6" panels

I've decided to use black gesso (a primer) for my paintings. I love the über saturated look this gives. Here's what it looks like before I start painting: You can see the tiny holes pre-drilled on the back of each board. The hole does not go through to the front. 50 of these were provided by Sanchez Art Center to each artist for $75. I didn't really need to to gesso the back of the board which is what you see here, I just like the look of black edges and back for this project.

Black Gesso'd MDF panels. 1/4" thick, 6" x 6"

I set up my studio wall as my paintings will be hung for the show - a 7 x 7 grid with one extra painting set off to the side with a bio and artist statement. I exaggerated the contrast here so you could see the tiny nails the boards will be hung on. This big photo is to help you see the tiny nails.

I have this VERY cool easel that my friend Katy Kindig's husband John made for me. It's based on gravity and friction. The triangular piece slides down to hold the panel in place without covering up any of the painting surface. It sits on my larger easel. I will be using this easel to make all 50 paintings. I love it. Thanks, John!

Hand made easel holding black gesso'd panel

My theme is Dog Portraits.

Day 1
I was so excited to begin this process I could hardly wait. I had been painting "Sophie" for a commission so she was familiar to me. I thought I'd start with her for that very reason. Because I have never painted on MDF panels and generally don't begin with black gesso I thought having one part of the process be familiar was a good idea.

Sophie - Day 1

Day 2
In my exuberance to begin painting for this show I actually painted "Maggie" on Day 1 too. Jeez, could I just follow the rules? Day 1 and I'm already breaking the rules. Don't tell!!

"Maggie" went better than expected. Painting a black dog on a black panel was my challenge. I decided to use tints of blue and aqua as her highlights and the deepest blue/red/green for her shadow, or black areas. I first had a red background but changed it to blue. I'm happy with this painting.

Maggie - Day 2

This will be the theme of my blog for the next several weeks. I hope you enjoy it.

Mary

Don't Bother, It's Just Art

2011-06-01T11:18:00.000-07:00

"Don't bother, it's just art", and this is just what it does for people.

Spirit Woman

"... and for creating 'Spirit Woman'. She looks over me as I work, where I can connect with her eyes. Her hands remind me to carry myself gently. Thank you..." — Phyllis

Flapper

Tina

Debutante

I've had people purchase paintings from me with their Social Security checks. I was worried about this when and a friend said to me "she's feeding her soul".


Deep Roots

"Our art is something that makes me happy everyday I wake up and have the privilege of looking at it. —Steph

Circle of Life

"...when I brought the painting home I set it up on the chair at the dinner table, just like a welcome guest. Now she's at the perfect spot where she can be enjoyed all the time. I say hello when I come in, good night with a kiss, and have tea with her in the morning. Love looking at her from all angles and from a distance..." —Brian

So, what does art do for people?

It stirs creativity and imagination. It's calming and thought-provoking. It's why they put it in high-tech companies where engineers work. It's why it's all over hospital walls. It's not about adding color, it's about feeding souls and stirring imagination. It makes us feel good. It helps one think creatively. It's used in therapy to help people express themselves.

So, where did that 'it's just art' comment come from? It was a man standing on my driveway, looking at my art and commenting to the person on the other end of the cell phone line. Too bad he thinks that.

Roll Out The Red Carpet

2011-05-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you have to stop everything and celebrate.

I've often said to my husband "I have the best collectors". I'm sure every artist feels the same way, but I really do so that's who and what the party was all about. ;-)

Group shot

My collectors make me feel like I'm the best artist on the planet. They are supportive - they send me notes of encouragement. They write thank you notes that are so special that I will save and read the rest of my life. They listen to my stories and understand what and why I paint. Some travel far distances to attend a show with me - even to Italy and New York! (thanks, Suz). Some I learned Friday night call themselves "The Loyalists" because they traveled to Davis for the show at John Natsoulas Gallery. (thanks Helen, Ken, Evelyn, Karen, Johnny)

On the red carpet...

Elizabeth, Kevin

Evelyn, Karen

Helen, Ken

Eileen, Jeannine

Jerry

Phyllis

Karin, Dave

Kendra, Merrianne

Kirk, Leah

Piety

Sam, Barbara

Piety, Liz

Sherry

If I didn't get to take your picture on the red carpet, I apologize.

Party time...

Bill

Helen, Ken

Carol

Gloria, Ray

Jeannine, Eileen

Johnny

Judith, Steve

Self-titled Loyalists

Ray, Sharon

Alter to collector and gentleman, Michael Gallagher who passed in 2010.

For those that couldn't attend we missed you and hope to see you next time.

Love to each and everyone of you. A special thank you to Sam, my husband who makes this all possible with support and love.

Mary

Honey Badger is cah-razy

Something Besides Art? Yes!

2011-05-17T08:40:00.000-07:00

Sometimes art isn't even on the radar.

A couple of days ago we drove up to El Dorado Hills to spend time with family and watch the Tour of California come blazing into Sacramento. The family part was wonderful, as always. An evening by the fire, a glass of zinfandel and homemade Minnestrone soup that we all made together. A loaf of whole wheat sour dough to accompany. Heaven.

Yesterday, those that didn't have to go to work - it was Monday after all, and those that we pulled out of school (don't tell) went to Sacramento to watch the cyclists cross the finish line.

This is the 6th Tour of California and we've gone to at least one stage of each year's race. It is impressive, powerful, exciting, even thrilling at times. It gives a glimpse into another world entirely. It's fun to scream and cheer like a young school girl, to tear up while feeling the power of the peloton, and to be in awe of the 20 & 30 year olds that are 100% testosterone, except for Jens Voigt who is 40!!

It is truly a team sport. When I hear my husband explaining to our nephew the intricacies of rules, team work, and strategies it is complex, often selfless, historical, and at times pure ego. It's awesome.

If you get Versus, check it out. It is a fabulous view into cycling with the best two commentators in sports today - Phil Liggett and Paul Sherwen. It also gives a birds eye view into this beautiful state of California. It ends next weekend in Southern California.

One of these years we are going to follow the entire race.

You've Come Full Circle

2011-05-10T07:32:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I told my sister-in-law Evelyn I'm painting dogs she said "You've come full circle." In that one statement she meant this:

When I began painting in 2002 I was so happy to be out of the corporate world my joy overflowed to my canvases. They were filled with crows doing anything and everything - driving cars, telling stories, even doing yoga. That lasted for years.

Love Birds, 24" x 36"

Around 2005 I wanted to learn how to paint a face. They were expressive and an ongoing exploration into painting techniques. Around that same time my Mom got very sick and passed away in 2006. My paintings took on that sadness and lasted for several years.

Blue Eyelid, 16"x12"

I reflected on my childhood, growing up in Michigan and my roots. I painted every room of the house I grew up in in Wayne, Michigan.

Home, Sweet, Home, 24"x18

I have had a life long interest in self-improvement, spirituality and the mysteries of life. I've called these paintings Ancients, Fantasy, and Misfits.

Everything Nothing, 18"x24"

I paint still lifes to practice drawing, composition, form, etc. It's an activity that puts me in the moment and usually provides a break from the more emotional work.

Two White Bottles, 10"x8"

A couple of years ago I felt like I was starting to be my old self again. I heard myself laughing more. I was getting my sense of humor back. Titles like "Spirit Takes A Break" and "Vogue Spirit" sprung up.

Vogue Spirit, 36"x24"

Recently, I was out dog walking with a friend and she asked me to make a couple little paintings of her dogs' faces. I immediately thought what a fun project. For a few weeks now I've been painting dogs and cats and I totally love it. I see and feel the joy in these precious animals and in myself.

Petey, 6"x6"

So when Evelyn said "you've come full circle" she knew that I was back to joy.

Although I've outlined the last 9 years in a linear process, it wasn't that clear cut. All phases overlap. Sadness and joy overlap. Commissions and my own work overlap.

Dogs and cats and spirits all need to coexist in my studio. That's what makes it magical.

Dog Days of Summer

2011-05-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

ahh... it's the long, lingering dog days of summer. I love this time, especially in the early months. We're suppose to hit 90 degrees this week. It's not even summer yet, but I digress...

Lucy, Bailey, Petey, Larry

I know this expression has nothing to actually do with me painting dogs but I can't help myself. When I think of the dog days I go 'o so litter(al) and paint dogs. Can't go wrong with painting a dog or two right?

I think part of my inspiration comes from there being new dogs in the hood.We are almost surrounded by dogs now. Well, kind of. Casey (a female mutt) just moved in across the street from us, and Landon (a male lab) just moved in and is kitty corner. It's so nice visiting both of these doggies. They're so sweet. Casey wont let her owner get out of her site, and Landon now walks with a limp after an accident. poor baby...

For now I'm calling these "mutt shots" inspired by dogs, summer, art festivals and lingering in the shade.

arf arf

Layaway Rocks - Oh Yeah!

2011-04-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

I just delivered a painting today that was paid using layaway. Remember that? It began way back when prior to credit cards. When you wanted to purchase an item and you didn't have as much money as you needed right then, you put it on layaway. After the item was paid-in-full you took it home.

Savvy shoppers are often doing the same thing when they purchase my paintings. I currently have 3 collectors purchasing several paintings using layaway. Cool, huh?

Until a couple of hours ago, I had 4 collectors using this method. I just delivered this painting to LeeAnne. She purchase "Cow Skull" on cardboard and another painting using layaway. She is now the proud and happy owner of 2 (more) paintings that she began paying for several months ago. Thanks, LeeAnne!

LeeAnne with Cow Skull on cardboard

It works for the collector and me!

1) It allows the collector to purchase art over several months on a payment plan that works for both of us - usually 6 months.

2) They are not paying credit card fees, or any additional fees to me.

3) They are not giving money to financial institutions that don't need it, aren't 'local', and aren't necessarily behiving responsibly.

4) They are able to buy exactly what they want without making decisions based on money. In other words they are buying what they love, not what they can afford.

5) There is a wonderful anticipation of getting a "gift" that they are giving themselves in the not-to-distant future.

6) I sell more art because people have an additional way to pay. This keeps me in business. Small businesses rule - buy local, it matters to me and all the other small businesses out there.

7) It lets me stay more closely in contact with my collectors. We frequently get together at my studio or out for coffee when they make a payment. Love that! I delivered this painting to LeeAnne this morning we had tea together at Cafe Pomegranate downtown San Jose. Check them out if you're in the area. It is fabulous.

8) When the painting is paid for, I deliver and will help you hang the work if you'd like.

This is a win win. You are supporting a local business, getting exactly what you want and a new friend during the process.

Thank you all for supporting not only me, but all of your local businesses. It's not just a slogan - it matters.

Mary

Why I Might Paint Over a Painting

2011-04-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

There are people out there that are shocked when I tell them I have painted over paintings. Why do I do this? It's quite simple. It didn't meet my standards.

It could be things like:
• bad technique
- including poor paint handling, poor drawing skills, texture and/or color palette
• poor composition
• uninteresting subject matter
- sometimes an interesting thought doesn't translate to an interesting painting

A sub-standard painting by me from several years ago.

This painting never became what I wanted it to be, and I ended up pushing paint around for far too long. I will just say it is one that is now something else.

I was just reading in the book The Repeating Image, "Infrared spectometry has revealed that he (Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot) originally included three slender trees to the right of the central tree. The work was also signed on two separate occasions, first in brown with the date '1864' and then in red."

This is so validating. If the masters felt their work needed reworking, then ahhh.... I have permission to do the same.

Postscript
When one of my collectors invites me into their homes to show me where they have hung their painting(s) they are so proud and I am too. I have yet to look at a painting even from many years ago that is now on the wall of a collector and feel that it isn't up to my standards. By painting over a painting when it needs it, I only see work that I am proud of now and in the future.

FU Murky News

2011-04-12T07:19:00.000-07:00

I am pissed at the Mercury News.

I gave up any hope that they may be interested in the arts in San Jose by getting rid of um... their ARTS SECTION years ago - and no, "entertainment" is not a substitute. I'm talking about paintings, monotypes, etchings, sculpture, drawings, museum show reviews, gallery openings, etc.

...and now under the column "News of the Weird" on April 10 we get this:

Scottish artist Jane Forbes, 47, won the "Shoe Is Art" competition in Dundee, Scotland in late 2010 with a work ("Ad Infinitum") where she painted (and photographed) the same pair of shoes every day for 66 days, hypothesizing that subtle differences in her "mood" would be detectable in any variations in the paint jobs. — Chuck Shepherd

Jane Forbes

When my husband read this to me I thought... what is so weird about that? The artist came up with an interesting conceptual idea. Take a subject we all know, and encourage the viewer to see things in a new way, to possibly look beyond the obvious, what might they see differently in each pair of shoes? It was creative without being "over the top", plus the woman won the competition. That's so so weird.

Why did this push my hot button, besides the reasons above?

There is a show called the 50-50 show that is held each year at the Sanchez Art Center in Pacifica, CA. Participating artists create 50 small (6"x6") artworks in 50 days. This year's show will be juried by DeWitt Cheng, noted Bay Area artist, art critic, art writer, teacher, and curator.

I visited the show last year and thought I would try to get into the show this year. I recently started brainstorming ideas as the entry deadline is May 10. After mulling over several different ideas I came up with the idea to paint shoes, before I ever read the "news" above. If I get into the show I will paint all kinds of shoes... hiking books, bicycle shoes, tennis shoes and heels — a different pair of shoes each of the 50 days. My idea is not conceptual like Jane Forbes idea, it's more documentary than anything else. I still like my idea and I'm sticking with it.

Wish me and my frickin' weird idea good luck!

Mary

17% Epic - Part II

2011-04-05T06:52:00.000-07:00

Why was last Saturday only 17% epic?

Because according to Wikipedia an epic is a long narrative poem in elevated stature presenting characters of high position in adventures forming an organic whole through their relation to a central heroic figure and through their development of episodes important to the history of a nation or race.

I figure after that definition my day was 17% epic, not any where near a truly epic day. Painting for 10-12 hours in a day though stretched me. It forced me to come up with a second idea, which actually was not difficult. I think when I'm in that creative space, it's easier to stay there than it is to sometimes get to that place.

The second half of my 17% epic Saturday was spent making this painting. It took me a week to finish it however. I call her "Spirit Woman". She is 24"x20", acrylic on canvas.

I need to do more epic painting days. How about you? Have you ever done an epic painting day? How did it go?

My 17% Epic Day - Part I

2011-03-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

I painted from noon to 10:30pm Saturday — a 17% epic day.

Several years ago while giving a talk at Ameriprise Financial I was asked whether I was obsessive. It took me by surprise at the time, but I now know the answer – yes, some times. Saturday definitely.

I was scouring the photographs of my ancestors online when I saw this photograph. The little girl became my inspiration to paint.

My intention was that she would be the star of the show. I was going to make her large on the 12”x18” canvas, but first I had to practice drawing her hands. They are complex and subtle all at the same time. Old hands have so much more character with all their bumps and crevices. There is actually something there to draw, but smooth little hands are a bit more difficult strangely enough.

There are times when my plans take a U-turn on the canvas. All of a sudden the leg of the boy that the little girl is resting on became part of a woman. It made so much more sense to me like this and had a message that I definitely relate to.

6 or so hours later:

Next week Part II of My 17% Epic Day, and what the heck is 17% about anyway.

Is That A Portrait of a Dog?

2011-03-22T07:17:00.000-07:00

Miller High Life Commercial

Why commission a portrait of a dog? Because you get exactly what you want. Even if it's this:

Doug and Katie from Baltimore wanted a portrait like this of their dog. They knew not only what they wanted conceptually, they also knew that they wanted "Biscuit" to being wearing this suite from the Men's Warehouse:

and a wine-colored pocket square. I didn't even know what a pocket square was. In case you don't know either, it's that little poof of fabric that goes in a men's suit chest pocket. They also wanted a wine-colored tie. OK, I knew that one.

Of course, they wanted the star of the show to be Biscuit:

Next, I imported the image of Biscuit along with the specified Men's Warehouse suit. I used the spray paint tool to make the tie and pocket square wine-colored. Other requests were a dark background and a glow around the head and shoulders. The result:

I played around with a head tilt on the dog. Whew, that definitely helped.

Next, I made a sketch directly onto the canvas:

Since they wanted the dog's name included in the portrait I decided that a head tilt to the left would balance the pocket square and name on the chest pocket on the right.

Now it was time to make the painting:

"Biscuit", 16"x12", acrylic on canvas

The painting was actually quite straight forward because all of the details were worked out prior to this point.

Note: The entire process of communicating and imagery was done via email. I've never met the couple that hired me. She is the daughter of my second cousin, Becky. The total process took about 2 weeks.

I can't wait for them to see it.

Thank you Katie and Doug!

Nature Always Gets It Right

2011-03-15T06:55:00.000-07:00

I thought the title to this blog was good until the disastrous earthquake in Japan. It is with a heavy heart for all of Japan that I write this post.

I took this picture recently when I was out photographing color schemes provided by nature. My intent was to use these beautiful color schemes in my paintings.

This Azalea is stunning. Someone got it right with the wall color behind the plant as well. Nice. Taken with my iPhone on Lincoln Avenue between Willow and Coe Avenues in San Jose, CA.

This is the painting I made based on the color scheme above with the help of a complete stranger that painted the wall and Mother Nature who provided the stunning Azalea.

Zana Cool and Warm, 10"x8", acrylic on canvas

Love to everyone in Japan.

When Is Your Painting Finished? It Will Tell You

2011-03-08T09:26:00.000-08:00

I want to help you avoid the fate of many of my ruined paintings because I didn't have a clue when they were finished. Ugh...

My process is to have an idea for a painting and then start putting paint on the canvas. I like large brushes and lots of colors. I keep at it until I come to a natural stopping point.

Then what do I do?

I step away from the painting! I'm talking like six feet away. Backing up gives me a new perspective. If nothing is saying ‘fix me’ then I’m finished. It’s time to set it aside and do something else. Work on another painting, make cupcakes, pet the cat.

The alternate scenario is that something in the painting is screaming at me, ‘fix me’. Awful brown, too blue, not enough contrast. Whatever it is, now is the time to fix just those things.

Step back again. What is the painting telling me now? I either need to get back to painting or go pet the cat.

Give the process a day or two. If your painting isn't telling you it needs something at this point, it's finished!

Take it from one who ruined too many paintings because I didn't have this simple formula:

Stop too soon. Evaluate from a distance. Fix only what needs fixing.

Mary

The painting is always finished before the artist thinks it is. (Harley Brown)
The best way to finish a painting is to start a new one. (Sylvio Gagnon)

Painting Glass - Nuance and a Bit of Exaggeration

2011-02-28T11:20:00.000-08:00

Go from this:

To this:

With Step-by-Step instructions.

Extracted from the E-Lesson on How to Paint a Glass Object:
I would like you to take a close look at the glass object you are about to paint. Notice that there are areas of the glass that you can see right through to the background behind it. At first glance the entire glass will look like that to you. Now, look again. Look at the rim of the glass. Is there something other than the background there? Do you see a fine line of black or white? Some other color? Look at the edges of the glass. Notice any difference? You are looking through more glass at this point. The color will be different than the middle of the glass. It will be more opaque rather than purely transparent.

Keep looking at your glass object. Look at the stem if you are painting a wine glass and the base of your object. Notice how the light is distorted as it goes through different areas of the glass. Look at the base of your glass. It is usually thicker than the sides. This will mean that it is less transparent, more opaque, and will be a different color than other parts of the glass.

Notice also that glass reflects. It reflects everything around it. The window, a light in the ceiling, possibly even you. It will reflect what it is sitting on.

In the example that I made, I could see blue reflected in the glass from the blue fabric it was sitting on. I could also see reflections of the window light, which brings me to my next very important point.

Make sure your light source is stationary. It is very difficult to paint something when the light source is changing, like the sun. I highly recommend that you light your object with a table lamp or an overhead light source rather than using window light. It is very difficult to paint a moving object and that’s what you get with the sun as your light source. The reflections and the refractions will constantly be changing, and you won’t be able to keep up. Trust me on this one.

In addition to translucency, opaqueness, and reflections there are highlights. These are the pure white areas of light that are reflected on your glass surface. I like to paint these highlights with pure white or with a touch of yellow and with a bit of exaggeration. They help your object say “Yep, I’m a piece of glass”.

Most importantly, paint the way you feel most comfortable. The only goal here is to end up with a painting of a glass object. We’re not striving for the most beautiful glass, or a glass filled with flowers (way to complex) or an incredibly detailed pattern of anything (can you say fussy?). We just want a simple glass object sitting on a table with a background. That’s it.

There is beauty in simplicity.

In the privacy of your own home, and on your own schedule you can learn to paint.

There is also one FREE lesson on how to paint a white bottle. Use this as a test-drive to see if learning to paint using my E-Lessons is for you.

Try it, now!

Kicking and Screaming

2011-02-01T07:59:00.000-08:00

The main focus for my business in 2011 is to get more online presence. That includes learning to write a better blog even it means a little kicking and screaming at times.

To minimize childlike behavior I have enrolled in a 4-week self-study Blog Triage class with Cynthia Morris and Alyson Stanfield. Today's assignment is to describe the people I want to visit and read my blog. My model for this is my life-long friend, Janet.

She is supportive. No matter what I do, no matter whether I have success or failure, she is there for me. She listens to my ideas and adds more of her own. She is enthusiastic about my art career and loves to hear what I'm up to. She's not afraid to question me when I'm veering off-track, and to gently lead me back on course.

I want art lovers and lovers of life to read this blog. People who find a zest for living energize me. No matter where they are in life, no matter how young or old. No matter where they live or what language they speak, it's the spark of curiosity that stimulates conversations, creates masterpieces, and inspires me to always do better.

My goal is that through my writing I will gain insight into myself, therefore my Art, my Life and an ongoing sense of Adventure.

Focus. Discipline. Faith.

2011-01-05T08:42:00.000-08:00

I don't generally make new year's resolutions but I do like to contemplate the upcoming year. When I read this motto: FOCUS. DISCIPLINE. FAITH, it resonated with me. I wish I knew who to attribute it to, but I don't. Apologies.

If my life were in it's "normal" state, focus would mean paint, paint, paint (paintings). Discipline would be my practice of making art regularly, and faith would be believing I can do this, and I have something to share with others.

Focus now is all about getting the house ready to sell. That means painting all the rooms Benjamin Moore 2161-50 Yellow Squash, hire someone to put up molding in the master bedroom, install baseboards in the hallway and family room, and paint the areas I'm unable to paint — the stairwell.

Discipline at this point is to stick with my plan to paint one room each week until they are all light and bright as they say on HGTV.

Faith is believing that my "normal" life will return, without having lost the skills, ideas, inspirations and fortitude to make art.

Valentine's Day

2010-02-15T11:50:00.000-08:00

We were treated to a special Valentine's Day tour to see the Elephant Seals at Ano Nuevo State Park by Katy Kindig. This is the prime time of year to see mating, nursing, the bulls, pups, you name it... it was all happening yesterday at the Ano Nuevo Rookery. It was like taking part in a National Georgraphic special. The weather was perfect. 65 degrees with a light breeze. On the way back to the interpretive center we watched the sun set. It was a perfect tour.

Thanks so much to Katy, a friend, an artist and docent at Ano Nuevo State Park. Be sure to check out her art work, she's an amazing artist.

Black & White and Shades of Gray

2009-11-10T07:23:00.000-08:00

My degree is in Photography from Western Michigan University - way back in 1977. WOW that really does sound old. Anyway, my study of photography was all in black and white. Think Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, Steichen. It was also film and darkrooms. It was chemicals and the Zone system. It was unthinkable to NOT convert either a bathroom or closet to a darkroom. I guess you could say I was the bad roommate. I stunk up the place and occupied the bathroom for hours at a time.

Every now and then it's fun to look at things as I did then, in shades from white to black. Here are some pictures I took at the Palo Alto Art Center art studio. I went last weekend for the Dia de Los Muertos celebration, but was transported to 1977 and looking at things in black in white and shades of gray.

Most digital cameras can be set to black and white mode. Go out and take some pictures thinking in that mode and see what you come up with. Forget about the color. Upload the images to your computer and use the settings in Photoshop or another image editing software as your darkroom. Play around with it. The key for starters is to get a good rich black and a pure bright white. The shades of gray will fall where they will. Try it out and let me see what you make.

Chuck Close at San Jose Museum of Art

2009-10-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

On the way to the Chuck Close show, the first thing I see before I even get out of the parking lot is a face in the arrow on the ground.

Closeup: (Isn't that cool?)

I'm always struck by the beautiful San Jose Museum sign and building. I love the bold graphic - that's what first catches my eye. Then there is the blending of the old (originally the San Jose post office) with the new. The new wing was added to the original building in 1991. Gorgeous.

Out front, you cannot miss the incredible statue by Italo Scanga. "Figure Holding the Sun"

The new wing:

The old wing and "Figure Holding the Sun":

I went to see the Chuck Close show. Geez, this guy creates so much work. He is prolific. I love to see his process. He is one who really works something over and over. I love how he uses a grid, the color, and the myriad of printing processes he's explored. He's used very few subjects, a friend, his wife, his daughter, and his own self-portrait. Truly inspiring work and show. A must see. No photography allowed inside.

Michael Jackson's Thriller World Record Attempt

2009-10-26T08:56:00.000-07:00

It was so cool to be walking down Lincoln Avenue Saturday and all of a sudden see Michael Jackson's Thriller being performed. Yep, full costumes, music, videos, cameras. Right here in San Jose. In talking with people at the event, one being my ex-boss Stan Harris from etc group, who was filming, there was an attempt to set a new world record for the largest number of people simultaneously dancing to Michael Jackson's "Thriller". We got to see it 3 times, 2 dress rehearsals and then the real thing. It was really cool. Here are some pics. The location was the parking lot in front of a very cool costume and dance store called Adira Dance. Check them out some time.

http://www.adiradance.com

Here's the official news blurg: On Saturday, an attempt was made to set a world record for simultaneous dancing to Michael Jackson's “Thriller.” Dancers in the US, Australia, Germany, Russia, and Pakistan all participated in the massive, highly coordinated event. Although no official announcement has yet been made about a world record being set, videos have begun surfacing that illustrate the success and the global scale of the endeavor. From various locations around the world, the “Thrill the World” dancers achieved their goal to orchestrate one of the largest coordinated dance routines ever witnessed on the face of the earth.

A Beautiful Wedding

2009-10-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so glad I rethought this BLOG to encompass more than just art because I can included precious times like I had this past weekend in Michigan.

On Saturday, October 17 my 86 year old dad married a beautiful 86 year old woman named Helen Cox. The full story is in the article covered by their local newspaper the Adrian Daily Telegram in Adrian, Michigan.

http://www.lenconnect.com/lifestyle/x536355872/Grand-Court-residents-both-86-tie-the-knot

I am so happy that I was able to be at their wedding. It was by far the best wedding I've ever attended. I cried when the bride walked up the aisle, and felt pure joy for my Dad at his happiness.

My friends and family made the weekend even more special.

My husband and I stayed with my lifelong girlfriend and her family in Dexter, MI. They are my extended family and I appreciate every moment with them.

My brother Mark and his wife Tracey lent us a car to get around in. So thoughtful. It was shining clean, detailed and filled with gas. How nice is that?

My brother Jim and his wife Terry suggested another get together on Sunday so we could spend more time together. We walked around Dexter, and went to the Cider Mill.

My brothers and their wives are all saints. They take care of my Dad and make sure he has as comfortable a life as possible. I love them all and I will be grateful forever.

Janet and Jerry, their family and animals (4 cats and forever precious McGeyvor) were hosts extraordinaire.

What an amazing weekend. Here are some pictures.

Helen and Dad

Walking up the aisle after the ceremony

Me, Dad, Helen, Sam

Happy times

At the Dexter Cider Mill the next day

Janet and me at the Huron River behind the Dexter Cider Mill

Railroad Crossing as Sculpture

Terry and Jimmy

Tracey & Mark

Dexter Depot

Jerry & Janet

My future studio!

Halloween Street Lamps

2009-10-13T21:21:00.000-07:00

Every year we decorate our street lamps for Halloween with our next door neighbors, Kirk and Leah. We have done this for years under cover of darkness. When we were finally caught in the act several years ago, we disvoered that the adults enjoy it as much as the kids.

We have 11 street lamps on our street and we put 3 images (faces or characters) on each lamp. Here are a few pictures of this year's lamps. We cut the images out of black contact paper. If you live near San Jose, you can see these on Nevada Avenue between Bird and Hill.

Enjoy!

Paintings from Mug Shots

2009-10-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday morning and I just looked at two paintings that I made this week. Each of these is from the same reference photo - interestingly a celebrity mug shot. Sorry, I don't know who the celebrity is. I am completely ignorant of pop culture. I made the photograph off the TV screen. Why was I watching this show? Mug shots make good subjects for my current work.

Here are the two paintings I made. I think I'll call them "Pink Girl" and "Pink Boy" or something like that. Brilliant!! Many of you know I am title challenged. I guess my creativity goes into my painting. By the time I'm done I haven't an ounce of creativity left when it comes to titling my work. Actually, that's not exactly true. It's days later and I still don't have a good title.

Here you go...

Getting Ready for Open Studios 11/7-8/09

2009-10-02T08:57:00.000-07:00

I've been getting ready for Open Studios November 7 & 8. So far I've made a new postcard advertising my painting lessons, a new business card, and am working on a brochure that will be ready in time for the event. I also got a new credit card machine that works without a phone line, and had new checks made reflecting a new address. I just received an order of 12 x 16 inch backing boards to go along with limited edition prints that I will be selling. Two nights ago I made 15 new prints in the 12 x 16 inch size. To help the artist community that I am part of, I will be volunteering along with Lori Krein to publish the event on all of the freebie online and print media sites. This is the very unromantic vision of being an artist.

I've had people say things like "don't you feel guilty painting all day when your husband is out working". I've had people sarcastically ask whether I can get the time off to do something with them. These are the type of comments that confirm that people have no idea what it's like to be a full time artist - and that's what this blog is all about. It's a behind-the-scene look at everything that goes on before the painting are displayed anywhere outside of my studio.

Hopefully, this blog is an education for non-artists, and a validation for artists who are in the same boat as me. We are all on our own paths trying to make a living doing what we love.

The painting above is called "A Touch of Color". I thought it would be appropriate for this entry so that it's not just of words.

Enjoy the day. Thanks for reading. Comments welcome!!

Studio shots

2009-09-17T20:41:00.000-07:00

I thought you might like to see what my studio is looking like these days. It's been about 2 months since I've moved in. The floor is looking better every day.

Although my big white wall is filled with works in progress - the few visitors I've had tend to gravitate to my earlier work on the back wall. They are familiar with it - it's like seeing an old friend. It's comfortable. Here are a few pics of my studio from today.

My easel. Isn't it beautiful?

My little man.

Works in progress on the wall and my painting table.

Looking toward the front door.

"Buy Now" button - whoo hoo

2009-09-10T17:22:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I can't paint for some reason or another. You name it... Today was one of those days. I was just distracted, uncentered, offcenter, whatever you want to call it, so I decided to figure out how to add a "buy now" button on my website for my painting lessons. I figured this was an excellent use of my time. Long story short, future and current students can now make payments for painting lessons via my website. How cool is that?

I am so proud of myself, I just had to write about it. If you want to go see this beautiful "buy now" button, OK, it's not so beautiful, well... yes it is - you can check it out here:

http://www.marymedranogallery.com/Pages/lessons.html

BTW, if you know anyone that would like to take some painting lessons and use my brand spankin' new 'buy now' button that would be awesome.

Red Jacket

2009-09-03T21:38:00.000-07:00

It was a great painting week. I have really settled into my new studio and am thoroughly enjoying my time there, meeting the other artists, and making art full time.

Here are progress shots of a painting I made today. It is from a photograph in a catalog. I mention this because recently my brother asked me whether I paint from photographs or not. I said I don't because all the answers are already there. So, since he made a liar out of me, or maybe I made a liar out of myself, here's a painting I made from a photo – almost. There are things that are different than the photo just to keep it interesting. It's a bit more realistic than most of my paintings, but I still enjoyed making this one. It is 24" x 20", acrylic on canvas.

Two Contacts Per Week

2009-08-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

You probably don't know this, but about six months ago I set a personal goal to make two contacts per week to either enter a competition, contact a rep, do the leg-work to find new venues, or contact a gallery about a show or representation. I do this with the hope that some of my efforts will result in either a group or solo show, a new gallery, or a new art consultant* relationship.

So, you ask... what were the two contacts I made this week? Every now and then something happens that I call 'a gift'. I receive an email or phone call from someone saying they would like to include my art in a show they are putting together. That very thing happened this week. I received an email from Christine Benjamin, an artist/curator who is putting together a show for Psycho Donuts. It will be a Halloween/Day of the Dead show and she wants monster, skeletal, creepster type art. Cool. All I had to do is email her back and say 'I'm in'.

First contact for the week done. Yay!!

The second contact for the week took much more time and effort. It began with a trip up to Sonoma County to hang out for a couple days. In the process I visited galleries, ate great food, drank a little wine, and visited every little city on the 116 loop from Healdsburg, out to the ocean to see Bodega Bay, and then ended up in Occidental at their farmer's market. Yep, that was the fun part.

One of the little cities we stopped in was Forrestville. We visited a gallery there called Quicksilver Mine Co. Yes, it really is a gallery, and a fabulous one at that. I thought I would be a fit so I asked the gallery worker what their procedure was for artists who would like to get into their beautiful gallery. They had a sheet of instructions that I took home with me. I read it over and submitted the required packet which included:

• cover letter stating whether I was looking for a group/solo show or representation
• resume
• artist statement about my work
• 6 photographic quality printouts of my work
• self-addressed stamped envelope for return of printouts

It probably took about two hours of time to get this all together and send to the gallery.

Second contact for the week done. Yay!!

Now you know why I call the first contact resulting in a group show, a gift.

Wish me luck with my second contact of the week.

* The art consultant doesn't work for the artist they work for their clients who are art buyers. Those buyers are either individuals who want art for their home or more typically, corporations and health care businesses who want art for their walls.

Downtime

2009-08-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

Downtime for me is any combination of the following:

* Looking at other artist's work
* Not cooking
* Drinking a little wine
* Taking a drive in the country
* Seeing new sites
* Daydreaming
* Leaving my cell phone behind
* Turning off the computer
* No emailing, Facebooking, Blogging, etc.
* Reading a good book
* No painting or sketching
* Time alone
* Time with hubby

This is mandatory to making my creative time more effective, more enjoyable, and hopefully improved.

I just had a chance to do all of this up in Sonoma County with my husband.

Now I am rejuvenated and excited to go back to my studio and make art.

Two Faces On Paper

2009-08-14T19:37:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure why exactly, but this was a long week of struggles. I was stuck on making one particular painting work. I don't know if this has something to do with me being in a new studio or what, but I was just stuck. Today (Friday) I decided before I even set foot in my studio that I was not going to work on that same 'ol chair painting again. I had had it with that and I needed to do something radically different to snap out of being stuck.

My idea was to go in and #1, work on paper. #2, work with pencil, ink and acrylic. #3, make some faces. something I was familiar with, therefore comfortable.

I made 6 paintings on paper today. I am happy with two of them. What I'm most happy with is getting past a point where I was stuck, and ending the week on a high note.

This one is called Gray and Sharp for lack of a better title. Suggestions for a title?

This one is called Red Nose, Blue Eyes. I know it's lame but I'm tired and literal right now. Any suggestions for a title?

Icing on the Cake

2009-08-07T07:51:00.000-07:00

The good news about all the hard work in the studio is that every now and then I get into a show. The even better news about that is sometimes I even win an award. That's much less frequent, but definitely worth striving for as it truly is icing on the cake.

Other icings on the cake?

Nice words
Good painting days
Collectors that want to visit
Collectors that give me gifts
Collectors that treat me to events
Selling a painting
Building comraderie with other artists in my community
Success of my students
Success of fellow artists
Just being in my studio
Having friends and family that support me being an artist (especially my husband)
Having all of my favorite art books in my studio
Having a LaFuma chair in my studio for long-time studying of my paintings
Having that same chair for napping
Having a microwave and mini refrigerator for creature comforts
Being able to offer a friend a beer or a glass of wine
Privacy, which leads me back to the flip side of being in the studio for days/weeks/months...

Tonight I will go to a reception in honor of several artists and myself whose work was accepted into a national show called Figures & Faces at the Pacific Art League in Palo Alto, juried by George Rivera of the Triton Museum. This is the first show I've been in where a catalog has been made of the pieces in the show.

Another icing on the cake.

Chairs, Chairs, More Chairs

2009-07-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

I had a great week of painting in my new studio. It's a wonderful place.

What I realize is that I am definitely not afflicted with attention deficit disorder. I am able to focus for hours at a time on a painting. In fact, at times this week I was so focused I lost track of time. That's the best. I am especially grateful for this uninterrupted time because I haven't had that for over 2 years. I am so happy.

I continue to paint chairs - those magical instruments of comfort, relaxation, calm, stability, nurturing, home. Like I said before I have a thing about chairs so why not paint them? I realize over the years I actually have painted several chairs so this isn't new. I'm just more focused right now specifically on them as subject rather than supporting character - for now. Only time will tell where this will lead.

This is the second chair I painted. It was just a study in discovering the chair parts - in other words, drawing it with paint from a different angle than the previous post showing the first painting I made in my new studio.

This painting shows a little more of me in it. I had the idea of the chair sitting in water. I like the stability of the chair and the motion of the water.

Since I like the water idea so much I began another painting this time a bit larger - 3' x 3'. It's not finished, but I like where it's headed.

This painting is 40" x 30" I think. Again, just a beginning of an idea. Chair legs and water.

It sure is fun painting again.

Helpful People and Travel

2009-07-23T19:55:00.000-07:00

I continue to work on my studio to make it my own. This week I worked on an area of my studio that my friend Barbara calls the helpful people and travel area. It is just inside my front door to the right. I have a curio cabinet there that is filled with gifts from friends. There are pictures of people who are helpful to me. I also have my art books in this area. I look at all of the artists in these books as helpful people.

My studio is getting feng shui'd because friends like Barbara share their knowledge about the ancient principles. It's fascinating, playful and fun. I usually take their advice because what they tell me just feels right.

Here's a definition of the Helpful People & Travel corner from the web:

The HELPFUL PEOPLE & TRAVEL area is located in the northwest corner of your home and/or business. In the individual rooms it is located in the front right section of the Bagua. This area represents the energy that brings helpful people to us or guides us to the helpful people on a daily basis. In addition, this area represents helpful beings, such as God, angels, spirit guides, and spirit animals. It also is the area for travel.

What does this area of your home or business look like? Are there helpful people there? Travel?

Here's a picture of what this area of my studio looks like.

Sometimes I Just Have to Paint

2009-07-15T08:22:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I just have to paint no matter what is going on.

This is the first painting I made in my new studio at The Alameda Artworks. It is 2 x 2 feet.

There was construction noise, I was still setting up and the place was a mess but I decided enough is enough, I needed to paint. This chair has been with me at two studios now. It is actually one of two chairs in my studio with a matching glass table top. It was a set that I "stole" from our kitchen because I needed a table and chairs and didn't want to go out and buy a new one. I love the iron work and the wicker seat. I love the lightness of a glass table top. It is light in looks, strong in character and has been privy to many conversations with friends and family.

This is another painting in which I painted over an older painting. In this case the older painting was my "Art Walk" sign that I used at my Campbell studio. The vivid reds and oranges peek through the surface paint. The surface colors are inspired by my new light-filled studio.

The simple subject of the chair represents worlds to me. It is something that I have had a "thing" for forever. It is comfort, and strength. It is nurturing, a resting place. It is a simple shape that can be complex in design. It offers a sense of place. It cradles and is patient. Sometimes it is rickety and precarious. Other times it is overstuffed. Aren't we all at times?

I found this about the history of "The Chair" on Wikipedia. "The chair is of extreme antiquity, although for many centuries and indeed for thousands of years it was an article of state and dignity rather than an article of ordinary use." Accompanying the text was this painting titled "Vincent's Chair" by Vincent Van Gogh, 1888.

I can't imagine life or my studio without several. At last count I have:

4 black folding chairs
2 white folding chairs
1 armless studio chair on wheels for painting
2 armless chairs with matching table
1 antique wooden chair

Good-Bye ArtWeek

2009-07-10T06:10:00.000-07:00

ArtWeek magazine has closed it's doors. It was an art magazine for artists. It felt comfortable, unpretentious, straightforward. It arrived in my mailbox every month. It inspired me. I never saw it at news stands. It was special - only museums and art stores were good enough for it. I will miss the 13.5 x 10.5 inch giant. June, 2009 was the last issue.

Recently, I decided to step up my efforts of getting into shows so I used the magazine's "Competitions" section as a resource. I would curl up on the couch with my magic marker and circle everything that I thought looked interesting. After that I would go to the web and do some research. I would check out the judge and the venue. I would look at the artwork of previous shows. If it seemed far fetched or if the link didn't work, if they weren't looking for paintings, or the location didn't include the SF bay area or if everything on their website was realistic, on and on I wouldn't enter and it would get the big black X.

If a competition passed the first set of criteria I would give it a number based on the entry deadline. There were many months I would go through this exercise and then... I would do nothing.

The May, 2009 issue was different however. I did my regular routine of circling and X'ing. I submitted some images, got some rejects, even won an award (Yay!!) I am waiting to hear the results of other entries I sent off. Wish me luck!!

Good bye ArtWeek, I will miss you.

P.S. You owe me $65 for my recently renewed 2-year subscription. ;-)

From Dining Room Table to The Alameda Artworks

2009-07-03T15:35:00.001-07:00

Studio 5 - Day 1

Hey there "sister", I have a new studio. That's my big news. It is light and bright and big. I mean BIG. I have never had anything close to this size before. You know I started out painting in my dining room. It wasn't long before I discovered I'm not very neat. A painters tarp draped over the dining room table wasn't going to cut it.

I headed out the back door and set up "shop" in the garage. I stayed for five years. I was messy and loved it. I learned how to paint in my garage. I'm still learning of course, and will continue to learn for the rest of my life but that's where I really learned how to paint. You know what I mean.

After five years in my garage a very scary yet exciting opportunity came up - my friend Lorraine called to let me know that she was moving out of her retail space in Campbell, CA into a new space a few doors down - her space was available and did I want it? OMG. I was scared to death. I would be leaving my garage, my privacy, my sanctuary. I would be gaining exposure, retail sales and experience and a very public studio space. I wanted to try.

I was in Campbell for about a year and a half when I realized that I'm just not a retailer. I'm an artist. I struggled with keeping retail hours. I struggled with painting in public and never completely got comfortable with that. I struggled with event after event that were interruptions to my creative life. You name it Campbell does it. There were celebrations of holidays, parades, sidewalk sales, barbecues, concerts, cinemas, Santa Claus and belly dancers (now that's a visual). It is a great city with great volunteers and merchants. They give incredible amounts of time, effort, money, and their selves. I met interesting people. I also met boring people. I dealt with a couple of drunks, welcomed the mentally ill, smiled at homeless people. I bought flowers weekly from the flower vendor. I met a lot of artists. I made new friends. I saw babies and grandpas, young lovers and art lovers. I worked in a public place and I knew it was time for a change.

I made several visits to my friend Lucy at The Alameda Art Works (an artist studio complex with 34 artists in San Jose) during my last six months in Campbell. She would point out studios that were available or nearly available. It was enticing. The studios were private and bright. I didn't just want one - I craved one.

Another friend enters the picture. Lisa. Lisa took her son to summer Art Camp with Lucy at The Alameda Artworks. Lisa discovered the same thing I did. There was a very large space available but who could rent that? It was way too big for one person. Lisa was also looking for a studio. She was working out of her home and was ready to begin the search for a real studio. Our paths crossed when we both discovered we were looking for a new studio and that we could share the large space that was newly available at The Alameda Artworks. Long story short - we are now mates in Studio 5.

My reflections on being in Campbell is that I feel good about helping to get the artists unified by offering to design a brochure listing the artists' galleries. The city was against it because it would soon be out of date. We (the artists) didn't listen and produced the brochure anyway. Turns out the city was right. The brochure was outdated relatively quickly when someone moved. As a result of a few rebellious artists, the city of Campbell now has a thriving Art Walk, and is on the third revision of the brochure. I imagine there has been tens of thousands of dollars added to Campbell's coffers as a result of the monthly Art Walks.

I had the best neighbors in the world in the Courtyard in Campbell. We cried like babies when I left. I will remember fondly our shared laughter and tears. I miss you already.

Now you know how I got from my dining room table to The Alameda Artworks.

Mary

Ancient Girl

2009-03-25T08:28:00.000-07:00

Evolution of the other girls I've been painting. It's funny to me that the evolution in this case is going more primitive.

Entries and Exits

2009-03-19T08:31:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a new series of paintings. I have no idea where it will lead, but I sure am having fun. This is one from that new group. I call it Entries and Exits. It has something to do with paths from the ancient to now. The checkerboard has been in my work for years. I love the pattern. In doing a little research I discovered it is a symbol for water, life-giving, centered. I like all of those meanings.

Meditation

2009-03-05T20:12:00.000-08:00

I made this because I love the photo of this Buddha. I need to spend more time meditating, and this is my reminder.

Angel Wings

2009-03-02T20:19:00.000-08:00

This little sweety is in many paintings and drawings lately. I don't know her. She is from a b&w photo I bought at a junk store somewhere, sometime. I really don't remember. I sure do love her though.

Perseverance

2009-02-12T21:51:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been so long since I've posted. I've been in flux with my paintings and to be honest just didn't know what to show. Anyway, here's one from today that I like. It's called "Perseverance" (how appropriate) and is 24" x 18".

Happy New Year!

2009-01-09T09:08:00.000-08:00

It didn't take long for me to realize I'm not a daily painter, at least not one that paints and posts daily. To start the new year off on a better blogging foot, I've changed the name of this blog to "In the Studio". This keeps me from constantly feeling like I've missed a self-imposed deadline. With respect to all artists out there who do paint and post daily, my hats off to you. You are amazing.

I wish I could say I had something fabulous to show you for the month plus that I've been gone, but well... maybe I do and can show it at the end of the writing. I'll think about it. I can say that I had a wonderful break spent reading, visiting friends, baking and eating way to many cupcakes. I even made a trip to Santa Barbara with my husband. That was the best of all. We hung out for three days with no agenda other than to ride the tour bus, eat, drink and be merry. We also visited the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. WOW. What a great museum. They had a Picasso show in two of the galleries showcasing his drawings. What freedom, imagination, and wild creativity he instilled in his work. It gave me a huge boost of inspiration.

We also walked on the beach, saw hundreds of pelicans, and went to the wharf. I never understand why wharfs are so special. They're tourist traps. They usually are filled with run-down low-end shops and food. And what's up with letting cars drive on them? That is always strange to me. I did buy a hat though. OK, that's what it's for. Dumb tourists like me who bring a winter hat and discover it's hot and sunny.

We also visited the Santa Ynez Valley (the wine region). WOW. Fabulous. I found myself saying how beautiful it was, repeatedly.

OK, I thought of what to show. In honor of the Picasso drawing show, here's a recent painting I made that combines my love of painting people, with huge respect for Picasso in the background. It is just 14" x 11" on a birch panel.

I will try to be better at posting, but I'm not making any promises. I would like to hear from you at any time. Please feel free to comment on any of my posts, my paintings, ideas, and whatever other random thoughts appear on this blog.

Wishing you all the best in 2009.

PEACE. LOVE. HOPE.

Mary

"The Last Persimmon" - SOLD

2008-12-09T20:18:00.001-08:00

I didn't accomplish much painting today. It was a struggle. I needed something to end my day with a sense of accomplishment, so I painted this sweet little persimmon. It's almost the end of the season and I'm going to miss getting baskets of persimmons from our friend and neighbor Sharon, who has supplied us for the last month or so. Thanks Sharon. It's been a wonderful persimmon season this year.

"Red Cheek"

2008-12-03T07:45:00.001-08:00

Another painting from my women series. This is a 12" x 12" collage on canvas. There is sanded paper and vintage newspaper from 1917 in this piece. $200

"Josefina" - SOLD

2008-11-25T18:44:00.001-08:00

A welcome departure from all the fruit and veggies I've been painting. It was nice to loosen up on this and do a more typical style for me including collaged elements.

5" x 5" x 1.5", $100. If interested in this painting, please email me. mary@marymedranogallery.com

"Pomegranate" - SOLD

2008-11-19T18:57:00.001-08:00

I made this painting while hanging out with a couple of my friends and amazing artists yesterday, Therese May and Christine Benjamin.

If interested in purchasing this painting please contact me at mary@marymedranogallery.com

5 x 5 x 1.5 stretched canvas, $100.

"Orange" sold

2008-11-17T18:53:00.001-08:00

I'm finally back at it. It felt so good to make this little gem today that I had to eat it afterwards!

This painting is 5" x 5" x 1.5" on stretched canvas. It is $100. Please let me know if you are interested in purchasing it.

Thanks!

Mary

"Scissors"

2008-11-12T21:35:00.001-08:00

This painting is 5" x 5" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, please email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Studio Chair 2" - SOLD

2008-11-09T18:48:00.001-08:00

I have a thing about empty chairs. I also have a thing about kids chairs. They intrigue me.

This painting is 5" x 5" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, please email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Gnarly Stem" SOLD

2008-11-08T10:01:00.001-08:00

This was a fun painting to make. I chose it because of the gnarly stem.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, please email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Studio Chair"

2008-11-04T17:48:00.000-08:00

I squeezed this painting in before and after talking to a class of fourth graders at St. Joseph School in Atherton. I was invited to the school to talk about a few of my Dia de Los Muertos paintings. It was a blast. The kids were great. They asked lots of questions, and truly seemed to enjoy their art class and teacher, Jan Reeves. I got to hang out during their art session of embellishing paper skeletons that they made during their last class. It was lots of fun.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, please email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Campbell" - SOLD

2008-11-03T20:13:00.001-08:00

As you can tell, this is slightly different than what I've been painting. I made this painting from a photograph that I took this past weekend. This is what I see every day when I walk from my car to my studio. This is taken from the parking lot behind my studio.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, please email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Sweet Surprise" SOLD

2008-10-31T17:39:00.000-07:00

This was another challenging painting for me. I sure hope I'm getting better. :)

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, please email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Freedom" - SOLD

2008-10-30T19:00:00.001-07:00

This was my most difficult "daily painting" yet. Both objects were new to me, so I really had to figure out how to paint them as I went along. Challenging to say the least. It definitely took longer than I thought it would. Now that I'm finished, I'm happy with the results.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas and is $100. Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing this painting.

"Pumpkin On Blue" SOLD

2008-10-29T18:15:00.000-07:00

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, please email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Right Foot Forward"

2008-10-28T19:02:00.000-07:00

I started this painting last night as a demo for my students. It was quite sketchy. I spent another hour on it today to finish it.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, please email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

Other Parts of My Life

2008-10-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday I taught another Collage Workshop. It was an amazing day. I always meet wonderful people, and have the honor of sharing in their joy at success, new confidence, knowledge, and being creative. I am so fortunate.

Yesterday I did a workout on the bicycle trainer, went to hop in the shower afterwards then made an awful discovery. No hot water. Anyway, life goes on. I still had to teach my eagerly awaiting painting students last night. I cleaned up with cold water (YIKES) and headed over to my studio to teach a class.

PG&E came this morning at 8am sharp to fix the water heater. In another 15 minutes we will have a full tank of hot water again. Pure luxury. I love PG&E.

Today I go to my studio to paint!!!! I promise you a new painting on this site by the end of the day. Thanks for reading.

Mary

"Broccoli" SOLD

2008-10-24T17:32:00.000-07:00

I guess I'm painting my diet. I haven't shopped once for my subject matter. This time I went to the fridge for my subject matter and the head of broccoli called to me!

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, please email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Mushrooms" - SOLD

2008-10-23T18:19:00.001-07:00

I fell in love with the lighting in the painting "Three Beauties" so I tried it again here. It's got the drama I like for such a humble subject, instantly elevating it's stature.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Three Beauties" - SOLD

2008-10-22T18:45:00.000-07:00

I followed a photo that Karin Jurick used of three pumpkins for my layout. I think her painting is beautiful, and wanted to make my own interpretation with three tomatoes.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com.

"Apple" SOLD

2008-10-21T19:25:00.001-07:00

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com

"Daisies" - SOLD

2008-10-20T19:49:00.001-07:00

I bought these flowers for the Day of the Dead show. They still look cheery today.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com

"Banana"

2008-10-19T19:17:00.000-07:00

This painting is roughly 5.5" x 8" acrylic on illustration board. $100. To purchase this, email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com

White Bottle

2008-10-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

This is a simple subject that I have painted many times. It is also an assignment I give to beginning painting students. It's one of my all time favorite things to paint.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com

"Pear" - SOLD

2008-10-16T18:31:00.001-07:00

This one is just a bit tipsy. Enjoy!

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com

"Cobalt Blue" - SOLD

2008-10-14T19:37:00.000-07:00

Why couldn't I have chosen a tube of paint that wasn't crimped? All of those crimp marks really took a lot of time to paint. Anyway, now that I'm finished, I'm happy with the results.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com

"Crookneck Squash" - SOLD

2008-10-13T19:38:00.001-07:00

I am having so much fun making these little paintings.

This painting is 6" x 6" x .5" acrylic on canvas. $100. To purchase this, email me at mary@marymedranogallery.com

"Pumpkin" - SOLD

2008-10-12T15:12:00.001-07:00