Tim Marsh Nature Artist

Relief paintings.

2012-01-20T12:41:00.000-05:00

I've been playing around with Light Modeling Paste over the last several months and it's a lot of fun to work with. This latest piece was a practice for a larger canvas that I've been working on for an up-coming exhibit in Ferndale, MI. (Feb. 24-April 9). More to come on that!

This canvas is 8x8 inches and is simply titled "Root Relief". Clever Hugh! This one is priced at $125.00.

Anyway I like the results both on this one and the larger 24x24 inch canvas.

Catching up

2012-01-06T17:01:00.001-05:00

From September 20, 2011
I thought I would bring you up to date on my "goings on" since I haven't posted in over a month.
Here's a run down......
July was Ann Arbor Art Fair.(Terrible weather!)
July 27th - Guest speaker for the Village Fine Arts Association in Milford, MI. (Very nice!)
Two days after was Chelsea Sounds and Sights Festival. (Too Hot!)
August 28th-Painting Demo at the Detroit Institute of Arts, DIA, (Great experience)
September 17th- SCFB Bird Fair in Livonia, MI. (Nice) Love the Birds!
In-between all that was work, work, and more work.

Lady Bug Series

2012-01-06T16:59:00.000-05:00

From July 13, 2011
These three paintings are examples of my new Lady Bug Series which will make ther debut at the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair Next week. July 20-23. These oils are on gallery wrapped canvas, painted on all sides. There are 7 in the series and are affordably priced at $150.00 each. I offer special pricing for the purchase of two or more.

If you are interested in these items prior to July 20th, please contact me and I can send you jpgs of the other 4 paintings.
Otherwise I hope to see you at the art fair!

What a Relief!

2012-01-06T16:55:00.001-05:00

From June 7, 2011
This piece which I haven't titled yet was an experiment in relief using light weight modeling paste. This canvas is an 8x8 gallery wrapped canvas where the image extends on all four sides. The coral branch is the relief element which is more evident in person. I applied the modeling paste with a palette knife and sanded it to the desired texture with my Dremel. The fish are actually more of a red-orange.

(This painting has been sold)

Solo Exhibit at Franklin Grill for MIPA

2012-01-06T16:53:00.001-05:00

From June 1, 2011
The Michigan International Professional Association (MIPA) has invited me to exhibit my work at the Franklin Grill in Oakland County from June 2 through July 2, 2011.

The opening of this exhibit begins with the meeting night of the MIPA where I will have the opportunity to meet and speak with members and guests of this group and present and discuss my work.

There will also be a guest speeker to discuss the significane of the green economy

(This painting has been sold)

Featured artist at Rainbow Feathers Bird Fair

2012-01-06T16:42:00.001-05:00

From May 3, 2011
Thanks to all for your kind words and purchases during the Rainbow Feathers Bird Fair in Romulus, Michigan last Saturday. It's always fun for me to do the bird shows being a "Bird" person myself. I had a great time. The image above is an oil painting titled "Eclectus Fantasy" which I held a silent auction for during the fair. With the sale of 3 of my bird paintings this week it looks like I'd better start painting, and fast!
Rainbow Feathers Bird Club

Find my work at STARRING, The Gallery.

2012-01-06T16:33:00.003-05:00

From April 28, 2011
I'm very pleased to be added to the group of artists represented at STARRING The Gallery.

The above piece titled "Heliconia High Rise" is just one of my original paintings that you'll find at STARRING The Gallery along with a selection of my limited edition reproductions.
This unique gallery, which is full of original one of a kind art, art prints and fine gifts, is located on Main Street in the heart of Northville, Michigan.

Guest Speaker at Artifacts Art Club

2012-01-06T16:28:00.002-05:00

As stated in my last blog post I began using the blog attached to my website. I didn't like it. It's too lonely over there! I miss my blog "followers" so I'm back. I'm going to link this bBlogger blog on my web site.
I'll be pasting some of the posts a made on my website just so you can catch up.

From April 12, 2011
I was invited as guest speaker to lead a critique of members work at the Artifacts Art Club in Livonia, MI. Earlier this month I was given the honor to judge their exhibit for this year. There were so many really nice works of art from this talented group. The above image is a watercolor by Mary Kehoe. She was awarded one of four Merit awards given in this exhibition.

Thank you Artifacts Art Club for another great experience.

Please see my New Blog

2011-04-12T23:22:00.001-04:00

This will be my last post on this blog. As of today I have started to utilize the Blog on my website which can be accessed by clicking on the "Blog" tab on my navigation bar. I think it will simplify things for me as well as my followers or visitors.

This blog will still exist for visitors to read archived posts and to direct viewers to my New Blog .

I look forward to your future comments.

Thank you for visiting.

Judging the Artifact Art Club Exhibit

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

I was honored to be invited to judge this years Artifact Art Club Exhibition which will hang in the Livonia City Hall lobby through April 29.

This all media exhibit containing 42 works of art from talented artists is a delight to see.

Thank you Sherry Eid and the members of the Artifacts Art Club for allowing me to partake in your event.

Please take some time to enjoy this exhibit which is free to the public.

For more information on this exhibit and future exhibits please visit the Livonia City Hall website.

The Michiana Bird Society Fair

2011-03-30T12:55:00.001-04:00

(one of my four raffled prints)

I went to Mishawaka, Indiana for the Michiana Bird Society Fair this past Friday and Saturday. As usual I really enjoyed being around the birds and the event was very nice. Thank you Marla and all the society members that I was able to meet and talk with and for your generous hospitality.

What was not usual was the fact that I was sick with a very b ad respiratory cold during the whole event that I am only now recovering from. I tried not to appear too obviously ill but don't believe I pulled that off too well. When ever I tried to speak I began hacking and gagging. It wasn't pretty!

I can only hope the the raffle of four of my limited edition avian prints were a sucsess for the bird society.

Thank you again, Michiana bird Society, for your invitation to take part in you event.

Featured Artist at Indiana Bird Fair

2011-03-16T19:59:00.001-04:00

Bird fairs are always a lot of fun, if you enjoy birds that is. Which I do. They have always been a favorite of mine to watch, interact with and paint.

I have been a featured artist at several "Bird" events including the Ann Arbor Cage Bird Club in Michigan, the Motor City Bird Expo in Madison Heights, MI and the Rainbow Feathers Bird Club in Romulus, MI.

On the 26th of this month I will be the featured avian artist for the Michiana Bird Society in Mishawaka, Indiana.

Then on April 30th I will be the featured avian artist for the Romulus event.

I will have on hand some of my limited edition reproductions, open edition reproductions, collectible art cards, bookmarks and a few original paintings.

A little Inspiration

2011-02-15T19:24:00.000-05:00

Orchids are amazing. After waiting a whole year, just when you've had enough of winter, this is what you get.

These are only a few of my plants. I have about 25 different orchids. I know.....It's a sickness.

This is inspiring. I wonder what I'm going to paint next?

8 x 8 Garden Floral Series

2011-02-07T13:06:00.002-05:00

I thought I would share with you my 8 x 8 Garden Floral Series. While I don't have a great deal of interest in painting flowers they are often an important element of my work. I decided to paint this series for two reasons. First of all these small canvases are a great "warm up" for larger planned canvases. Another reason is simply that they sell and I need a better selection of smaller canvases for this year.

As you may know the above images show ,from left to right, a Clematis, a Red Poppy and Tulips with Columbine all in various stages of development. None of them finished. There is a forth not pictured which is of Black Eyed Susan's. They are yellow-orange in color.

I'm planning on having about 10 painting in this series. and planning on another series of the same size of Wildflowers. Can I do it?

I would really like some suggestions of flowers that you would like to see me paint. So put on your thinking caps and let me know.

Kate Paul's Solo Exhibit, "Ardent"

2011-01-24T20:03:00.001-05:00

Last Friday I went to the opening of a solo exhibit of fellow artist and good friend Kate Paul. Her show is titled, "Ardent". Kate explained that the title is more about her than the art. I've come to know that the word explains her well and she and her work are one.

I can't say I've ever enjoyed an opening as much. Her paintings are alive and thought provoking.

The exhibit is at Level One Bank in Ferndale, Michigan. This is no ordinary bank mind you. It looks more like a high end architects office with a really nice gallery that takes up more than half of the space.

The exhibit runs through February 25. This is a must see!

Check out Kate's website here!

It's all good.

2011-01-19T10:34:00.000-05:00

At the beginning of each year I like to set new goals for what I want to try to achieve by December 31. Lets see which goals were set for 2010". They were "paint more, eat less, exercise more, catch up on my house chores, organize the garage, spend more quality time with all the people that I care about and oh ya, more me time!"

Hum! Lets see... Paint more? I did! Eat less? Lets just say that's a work in progress. Exercise more? Part of the year! House chores and organize Garage? Some. Spend more quality time with my family? For all but 3 months of it! More me time? Not so much.

I completed 15 paintings for the year, held several classes and workshops, was involved in a few group exhibits, Won a People's Choice Award, judged an art show, guest speaker for a couple of art groups and did the Ann Arbor Art Fair, ( for the first time), as their Featured Artist.

I'm not going to beat myself up over what didn't transpire. I think I'll give myself a thumbs up for what I did accomplish and Try try again for this year. It's all good.

"Escape To Molokini"

2010-11-17T15:06:00.002-05:00

You might remember that I was showing the development of this painting a couple of months ago as a painting in progress. I decided not to show the finished work until after the opening of my Solo Exhibit at the Lawrence Street Gallery in Ferndale, Michigan which will end on the 27th of this month. (See gallery web site for hours)

I'm very pleased with the outcome of this piece because its final presentation is just as I envisioned it long before the first sketches were drawn. This painting has a less vibrant color palette than most of my other work as it reflects the calm serene nature of this creature which to me is like a friendly peaceful ambassador of the Sea.

Today is the Day!

2010-11-05T11:37:00.000-04:00

"Ghost Plant", above, is my newest painting.

Today is the day, or maybe I should say night of the opening of my Solo Exhibit at the Lawrence Street Gallery in Ferndale, Michigan. I have 21 Oils on display through the 27th of this month. Many of my Limited Edition Reproductions are also available at the Gallery.

Please join me in celebrating the opening of my exhibit which is from 6-9pm at 22620 Woodward Ave.

Gallery hours are Wed., Thurs., Sat.: 12-5pm & Fri,: 12-9pm

"High Society" wins Peoples Choice Award

2010-10-29T16:26:00.004-04:00

And this years winner of the Gene Hammonds People's Choice Award is.... Tim Marsh for his Oil Painting titled, "High Society". The crowd jumped to their feet with thunderous applause.

Well actually the announcement was much more low key with only a few people in the room and there probably wasn't any applause either ~ but it looked great in my head!

This is my seventh People's Choice Award and my fourth time for this exhibit which was the 18th Annual Canton Fine Arts Exhibition held at the Cherry Hill Theater Gallery.

It's great placing in an exhibit and having words like "First Place" or "Best of Show" next to your name. There is usually money that follows closely behind these words which makes , "First" and "Best" even better!

However there is one exception. A Peoples Choice Award. Normally there is one Judge handing out his or her choices for the awards but a Peoples Choice Award is a vote from the viewing public. They represent a collective voice that says we like what you do and for an artist that's a pretty awesome feeling.

So from one voice to the many that voted for my work,
Thank you all.

Featured in Detroit Free Press "Play" section today!

2010-10-28T10:48:00.000-04:00

I've been lucky enough to have some really nice press coverage this year and my latest appeared today in the Detroit Free Press. In the "Play" section of today's news is information on my up-coming solo exhibit at the Lawrence Street Gallery. A large color photo too. Very nice!

Hope to see you at the opening.

Painting in Progress #2

2010-10-15T19:14:00.001-04:00

At this point I've put down just a couple of thin layers of paint to carve out or define the individual leaves and start to build dimension. This stage of a painting does feel like carving to me as each element appears out of a white background. Check back to see the finished painting!

Painting in Progress #1 "Succulents"

2010-10-08T16:51:00.006-04:00

In a post from August 31st I introduced the photograph of succulents that I'd been wanting to do for a while. I thought it would be a good example of how I build a painting. In this first photo you can see how I sketched out the image first. I then selected three colors of oil paint and began to lightly lay in some color. This stage is really like a color sketch. Doing it this way gives me a feel for the end result. The original image from my mind is just starting to emerge.

Remember to check back to see the next stage!

And The Winner is.........

2010-10-06T11:23:00.003-04:00

Thank you to my loyal Followers who have entered my Limited Edition Print Giveaway for October. Please remember that I will give away another print after January 1st of 2011. You can't be the lucky winner if you don't enter! So having said that, The October winner is..............*Kim Ensch* Yay! Hurrah! (Cheers from the crowd). Congratulations Kim! You're the Big winner. Someday you may be able to pay off your house with this. Wishful thinking!
Just go my websites Portfolio page to choose your print.

Time to give away a print!

2010-09-27T09:17:00.003-04:00

It is once again time to give away one of my Limited Edition Reproduction Prints. All you have to do to be eligible is ~a.) be a "follower" of my blog and ~b.) leave a comment on this post. Your comment can be about which print you like best or anything at all. It's that easy! I will draw from the "followers" that left a comment on this post only. You will have until October 3, 2010 until midnight. I will post the winner on October 4th or soon after. Good Luck!

All of my available Limited Edition Reproduction Prints can be found on my web site by going to the "portfolio" tab on the navigation bar at the top of the page.

Thank you CPSA Local Chapter 104

2010-09-23T21:50:00.004-04:00

Thank you to Local Chapter 104 of the Colored Pencil Society Of America for inviting me as their guest speaker last Thursday September 16th at the BBAC in Bloomfield, Michigan. I had a great time and was truly inspired by their members and their high caliber of work. I was able to present awards to the chosen winners from the Colored Pencil Plus exhibit that I Judged the previous month. (Thanks for waiting!)

I was invited to lead a critique of several members work and thoroughly enjoyed our open discussion and exchange of comments and helpful hints.

Thank you all for your kind words and hospitality. It was an honor to meet and talk with all of you and be received so warmly.

Presentation at CPSA Local Chapter 104

2010-09-15T14:21:00.005-04:00

I am pleased to have been asked to be the guest speaker for local chapter 104 of the Colored Pencil Society of America (CPSA) on Thursday September 16th at 7pm. My discussion will include my selections for the Colored Pencil Plus Exhibit which took place in August of this year at the Livonia City Hall Gallery. The image above, "I Set The World On Fire" by Dean Rogers was awarded First place. We will critique members work and have open discussion. Finally I will hold a drawing for one of my Limited Edition Reproduction Prints. The winner must be present so I hope to meet you there.

Please follow the link to the CPSAs Local 104 web site for location and more information about the Colored Pencil Society.

Orchid Painting up for Auction

2010-09-06T17:40:00.008-04:00

I don't often put original paintings up for auction on eBay but I thought "what the heck" I'll try it. This painting which is simply titled "Pink Cattleya Orchids" was one of my very first paintings from 2001. It is on a 12 x 24 inch canvas and will need a frame. I don't always display it with my current work as it is painted in a more traditional style with a dark background.

If you look on my website you will see that it is priced at $400.00. I have decided to move it out of my studio and into someones home. I have put it on the eBay auction block with a starting price of $99.00 with a reserve of $150.00. If interested just follow this link to my eBay auction page to see the details and place your bid. Don't wait too long!

From start to finish

2010-08-31T20:36:00.003-04:00

Many have asked me how I begin a painting. What do I look at or what inspires a piece? I thought I would share with you a small painting from start to finish. I've been wanting to experiment with southwest succulents on a small canvas and then eventually a larger one. The first thing I did was to go to a greenhouse that specialized in unusual plants, found the ones I liked and bought them. I then grouped and photographed them. I narrowed my selection down to about 10 photos. The photo above is the one that I've chosen and will use to create my 12 x 12 painting. This painting is not one that will have a story or more than one element reacting to one another but will simply focus on the shape, color and texture of these plants which I find interesting. Here we go!

Fan Dance

2010-08-17T08:21:00.003-04:00

"Fan Dance" is all about the color and texture of this unique creature. As you can see there is no story going on here. I just think these Lizards are fascinating and wanted to come up with a playful way of addressing their color and texture. The reason I chose the title "Fan Dance" was not only because he is on a Fan Palm branch but because of the way a Chameleon slowly sways as it walks while being provocative to another chameleon I'm sure. This reminds me of the Burlesque Fan Dancers and thus the connection was made.

Next Workshop

2010-08-10T23:08:00.005-04:00

Thank you to all who attended my last workshop at the Visual Arts Association of Livonia (VAAL). This was a Colored Pencil nature still life two day workshop where we put our focus on the textures of natural objects. I hope you all had as much fun as I did. I can talk nature and art all day.

My next workshop is scheduled for September 14th and 15th which is a Tuesday and Wednesday from 5pm to 9pm with VAAL at their new location at 37653 5 mile road in Livonia, Michigan. This workshop will focus on the techniques of drawing Roses with Colored Pencil. For more information please visit the VAAL website for complete class and workshop descriptions as well as registration.

My new workshops for Canton, Michigan begin in October.

To reach a personal goal.

2010-07-30T18:36:00.004-04:00

It was eight years ago at an art meeting I hosted at my studio that I muttered the words for the first time, "I'm going to change my medium to oil". Now that doesn't seem too big a deal, right? I mean after all artists do this all the time. After spending 17 years working with Colored Pencil, a medium that I had become very familiar with, deciding to paint was a huge deal for me. Did I mention that I've never had a painting class? By the way that's not something I'm proud of. It's just the way it was. Though I had not entered a large amount of competitions I had won some first place awards as well as a few others with Colored Pencil. After making the decision to switch to Oils I decided to set a few goals for myself and use these goals as a gauge to determine my accomplishments. First to grow as a painter, which I have and continue to do so. Then to enter my new work in exhibitions and competitions and win, which I have as well. I began to plan for the near future to be accepted to the Ann Arbor Art Fair in Ann Arbor Michigan which has always been haled as one of the best shows in the country. This year I have been very honored to be invited into the art fair as their featured artist. I'm writing this post not to brag or boast but to thank the many people in my life that support and encourage me. Their positive energy inspires me and feeds my creativity. Thank you all. I have so much more to do and to learn and more goals to set. I've always taught my students to compete with themselves and not with others because there's nothing more gratifying than to reach a personal goal. The taste of success is so much sweeter.

And The Winner Is............

2010-07-17T08:39:00.004-04:00

The Winner of my Limited Edition Reproduction Print Giveaway is..................Don Hunter (APPLAUSE)
Congratulations Don! Only six of you entered my giveaway which made it really easy for Don to win. Remember that I will do this every three months and the next Giveaway is scheduled for October 1st. Don't forget to enter and please leave your comment on the October 1st blog post to be eligible.

Sea Turtle in progress #2

2010-07-16T13:11:00.002-04:00

The image above shows this painting about half way finished. After this stage I have added more sponges and other sea floor life to fill in the turtles surroundings. More layers are being added and the colors represented here are still evolving. I wanted this painting to represent the serene slow rolling movement of this environment to showcase this peaceful magical creature.
This will be the last "in progress" post for this painting. It will make its debut at the Ann Arbor Art Fair in Ann Arbor, Michigan on the 21st through 24th of this month.
I predict this will be one of my more popular paintings.

Feature Article - July 15, 2010

2010-07-15T12:24:00.003-04:00

Below is a link to my most recent Feature Article by staff writer of The Belleville Lake Current, William Zilke. Thank you William.

Feature Article Link

Look for the up-coming July issue of "Art Showcase Magazine" where I will be featured, along with the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair Poster.

Colored Pencil Tip #3

2010-07-09T15:03:00.003-04:00

Keeping your pencils sharp will help you get even coverage. Even while using a hard leaded pencil like Verithin. After you make a few strokes, roll or rotate your pencil in your fingers. When that side begins to dull do it again. Keep doing this until you need to re-sharpen. You will have better blending results and your pencils will even last longer!

Adding a week to my first giveaway. July 15th

2010-07-06T17:36:00.007-04:00

I am adding one week to the response time for my Limited Edition Art Print giveaway. So you have until July 15th at midnight. I forgot about the holiday week and some folks were away. Don't forget to leave a comment on the Print giveaway post from July 1st. That's all you need to do to be eligible to win one of my reproductions. Good Luck!

Limited Edition Print Giveaway

2010-07-01T16:22:00.008-04:00

The above image is one example of many to choose from.

I thought it would be fun to reward my loyal blog followers with a chance to win one of my Limited Edition Reproduction Prints once every 3 months! Today is the first opportunity to enter!
The winner chosen by random drawing will be able to select the print of their choice.

To enter my Limited Edition print drawing you must:

Be a follower of my blog to enter the contest
Reply with a comment to this specific blog post to be eligible for the drawing
You have 7 days to leave your comment which could be about which print you like and why or any comment you like. ( Hopefully a positive one!)

I will select the winner from the entries received on that post only!
So if you haven't already become a"follower" please get to follow'n. I've got things to say!
All of my limited edition reproduction prints can be viewed on my website by selecting the "Portfolio" tab and choosing Limited Edition Reproductions.

Good Luck!

Sea Turtle in Progress #1

2010-06-22T16:04:00.007-04:00

I've been wanting to do a Sea Turtle for a long time. One of my most memorable moments in Hawaii was seeing a sea turtle in the lagoon of the hotel I stayed at and being so excited I jumped in (with clothes on) to see it up close. I held it in the water for about 5 seconds ( I've since learned you shouldn't touch them) and then it swam off. Magical! This painting will be finished and make its debut to the public at the Ann Arbor Art Fair and I think this is the only show it will see.

Sea Turtles are very popular among nature lovers and maybe that's because of its gentle nature and mystique. This one already has so much character and the paint has barely touched the canvas.

Check back to see her progress.

Colored Pencil Tip #2

2010-06-18T12:47:00.002-04:00

Here is a tip that most of us learned back in the early days of school. It's usually easy to remember to put a piece of paper under our hand to resist smudging while drawing with graphite. For some reason it seems to slip our minds with other drawing mediums. Colored pencil can also smudge and your hand can dull your finished drawing or painting as some like to call them. You can use any paper however, unlike the above photo, I like to use tracing paper because it allows me to see through to the rest of my work.

Remember, Keep it Clean!

Tree Top Cafe`

2010-06-16T13:51:00.004-04:00

I first posted an "in progress" photo of this painting on April 1st showing only the Giraffe. I explained that the Acacia Tree supplied food for one and shelter for the other. While that is true I began to realize that the tree supplied food and shelter for both creatures. In this painting the "Odd couple" as I referred to them earlier seem to be greeting each other as they might do every day from their favorite eatery. They look so pleased with their choice of food that they look as if they might willingly offer each other a sample. "Tree Top Cafe`" seemed to be a fitting title.

Steve Worthington Gives away Bronze Mouse!

2010-06-13T19:36:00.006-04:00

Sculpture artist Steve Worthington gives away Bronze Mouse. Just name three of his Turtle sculptures and win! His work is full of character.

See the details on his blog at http://steveworthingtonart.blogspot.com

Colored Pencil Tip #1

2010-06-11T18:07:00.004-04:00

The Kneaded Eraser is a wonderful tool however if not stored properly can become your #1 enemy. If you drop it or throw it into your pencil box it can pick up and hold all kinds of debris which can scratch or tear your paper. The best way to avoid this is to place your eraser into a clean resealable plastic bag or small container. It will always be clean and ready to assist you in creating your masterpiece!

I'll be posting a new "Tip" each week so be sure to check back.

U of M Exhibit

2010-06-10T17:08:00.005-04:00

I currently have a painting in the U of M Open Competition Exhibit at the Alfred Berkowitz Gallery. Though I did not win I am very pleased to be part of this competition due to the diversity and expertise of the work. I was very impressed. It's a very nice gallery space as well. I encourage you to go and enjoy this visual feast. The exhibition runs through July 15. The above image is a detail of the painting on exhibit titled "High Society".
Gallery is located on the third floor of the Mardigian Library at The University of Michigan-Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road.

Video Interview with Heritage Newspapers

2010-06-07T15:47:00.006-04:00

Heritage Newspapers which covers Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Dexter, Saline, The Downriver area, Dearborn/Dearborn Heights, Milan, Ypsilanti, Monroe, Belleville and Van Buren Township has done a feature story on me and my upcoming participation in the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair as their featured artist. Below is a link to the video interview that was taken at my studio in Van Buren Township. Look for the full story in your Heritage hometown newspapers that is expected to be published on June 10 (Thursday) or June 17th.

Read online interview here.

Watch video interview here

"First Date"

2010-06-01T15:34:00.004-04:00

(Click to enlarge)
Do you remember being with someone whose every word seemed to be just the right one? Their laugh was infectious and their eyes had an extra twinkle that you don't seem to remember on anyone else? When the chemistry is right, it's right! In this painting these male (green) & female (red) Eclectus Parrots couldn't be more enamored with each other on their "First Date".

God of the Upper World

2010-05-27T21:14:00.012-04:00

In a post from 3-29-10 I showed just a peek of my painting in progress titled, "God of the Upper World". Well here is the completed painting. I know what most of you are thinking. What's up with the title? The Aztec and Maya people revered the Jaguar for its energy and agile abilities. So much so that they were looked upon as physical forms of great gods. The black or dark furred Jaguar, better known as a Panther, was called the god of the under world. The normal and lighter colored fur, as the one I have painted, was called the god of the upper world. The Jaguar became a symbol of royalty and bravery and Maya kings wore its pelt.

The idea and imagery for this painting developed from the following thought.

While the ancient Maya civilization was drawn to the spiritually charged relationship with the natural world they saw gods all around them in the earth, clouds, wind, crops and animals. They still cleared and took from the land and the gods as human kind always has. In this painting the majestic Jaguar lay on his high throne overlooking the ruins and land of the once great civilization that has been re-claimed by nature and the
"God of the upper World".

Nature Colored Pencil Class at VAAL Lesson #4 Coral Reef Textures

2010-05-25T11:52:00.006-04:00

(click on image to enlarge)
In our fourth and final class our attention was guided towards the techniques and textures of the coral reef and its inhabitants. This subject allows for an abundance of variety in animal, plant, color, shape and texture.
Too little time for so much variety. I can only hope that my students enjoyed themselves at least half as much as I did. Thank you to all who participated and I am looking forward to my next workshop this coming August. Have a great summer!

Nature Colored Pencil Class at VAAL Lesson #3 Flowere/Plants

2010-05-22T10:20:00.007-04:00

(Click on image to enlarge)
At times filling in the background color is really helpful for allowing parts of the flower to emerge such as the white petals of this Trillium or the pincushion-like area of the Coneflower. The blue violet color at the bottom of the Aster/Daisey flower was filled in last to simulate underneath petals.

Nature Colored Pencil Class at VAAL Lesson #2-Fur

2010-05-13T11:30:00.003-04:00

(click on image to enlarge)
In our second week of class we focused on mammals and fur. Just as with birds, it is important to give your sketch guidelines for the direction and length of the fur. This step really pays off in the end. This example demonstrates the first layers of color usually put down with the touch and pull line technique. Adding more layers will give the fur depth and a more realistic appearance. Remember to work light to dark!

Nature Colored Pencil Class at VAAL Lesson #1-Birds

2010-05-11T09:05:00.004-04:00

(click on image to enlarge)
I thought I would show my example of our first lesson of my 4 week Nature Calls Colored Pencil Class at (VAAL) Visual Arts Association of Livonia which took place on May 3. It is very rewarding to be able to share my abilities with this enthusiastic group of talented people.
My first lesson focused on birds and feather techniques. The preliminary sketch on the left helps define the overlapping wing and tail feathers which usually prove to be the most difficult.
Understanding the anatomy of the wing is extremely helpful to achieving a believable end result.

Rainbow Feathers Bird Expo

2010-05-01T23:20:00.006-04:00

Parrot Portrait series #3
Well the event has once again come to a close. Rainbow Feathers put on a nice fair as usual. I enjoyed seeing past acquaintances and rubbing elbows/flight feathers with my feathered friends. I met many new friends as well and I appreciate your kind words and purchases. Thanks to those of you who came out to see me and I look forward to seeing you at the Ann Arbor Art Fair.

Galah

2010-04-27T18:52:00.003-04:00

This Galah or Rose Breasted Cockatoo is #4 in this series of 5 parrot portrait 8 x 10 oils on canvas board. This one along with the other four will be exhibited at the Rainbow Feathers Bird Fair in Romulus, Michigan on May 1, 2010. Also, 5 of my Limited Edition Reproductions will be raffled off during the event for animal rescue. Good Luck!

Featured Artist at the Rainbow Feathers Bird Club Expo

2010-04-26T18:17:00.004-04:00

It's time once again for the Rainbow Feathers Bird Club show in Romulus, Michigan and I'll be there as their Featured Avian Artist. While I enjoy all animals I have special interest in exotic birds, specifically parrots. Yes, it's true. I'm a bird person without a bird. I guess that's one reason why I enjoy painting them. The piece above is a Cherry Headed Conure on an 8 x 10 canvas board and is one of a series of five of the same size. Two others are shown in a previous post from February. All five are framed and retail at $200.00 each. The show is a fun place to be if you enjoy birds and you might even win one of five (5) of my Limited Edition Reproductions that will be raffled for animal rescue. Hope to see you there!

Beauty & The Beast

2010-04-23T17:04:00.008-04:00

This exotic yellow Cattleya Orchid is the subject of this 12 x 12 inch canvas. Orchids are among the most beautiful of all flowers with their variety of color, shapes and alluring aroma. One cannot help but to lean into the heart of the flower and take in the hypnotic perfume to complete the experience. But we are not the only ones to find the blossom irresistible. Lurking within the beauty is a beast so horrific that most humans would scream in terror scampering to escape its jaws of doom. You wouldn't want to cross paths with this guy. He is as dangerous as the flower itself! In this case the "beast" or monster is the harmless Papua, New Guinea Jumping Spider the size of your pinky finger nail waiting to pounce on its prey. I thought it would be fun to pair one of the most beautiful elements of nature with one of the most feared. I, myself, don't like the thought of being surprised by a spider and the thought of one crawling on me simply just creeps me out which is why I chose my little friend to share in the spot light of "Beauty & The Beast"

'Coral-ation'

2010-04-11T11:18:00.013-04:00

10 x 30 canvas
(click image to enlarge)

In a jagged coral forest lies a menacing creature waiting for the opportunity of lunch. He is dressed in camo, blending in with an environment that he cannot easily maneuver through. Entering upper right is the Anthias fish. So boldly colored he seems to be saying, "just try to get me" as he effortlessly passes between the coral branches. The coral supplies a safe haven for prey as well as a means of ambush for the predator. What the coral gets out of this deal is unclear. Together, the correlation among these three animals reveal the setting to a possible skirmish. The outcome is unknown.

Thank you!

2010-04-10T11:53:00.004-04:00

I just wanted to take a moment to tell my blog followers how much I appreciate you joining me. It gives me more incentive to forge ahead and stay on track with my plans. It helps me to be accountable for and achieve the goals that I write about.
So Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!

Coming soon: My newest panting, 'Coral-ation'

Featured Artist for The 2010 Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair

2010-04-05T13:56:00.007-04:00

The 'Good news' that I spoke about , or couldn't speak about, in a previous blog post is....speakable now.
I'm very happy and honored to have been asked by The Guild to be their featured artist for this years Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
The Ann Arbor Art Fair is a show that I've wanted to do for a long time. Having changed my medium to oil in 2002 I have needed more time to develop my painting style to properly represent what I see in my head. Given that it can be a scary place at times I feel that things are going in the right direction. I'm increasingly pleased with the results and public interest and sales are growing nicely.
The visibility from this event will, I'm sure, be awesome. My painting titled 'Monkey Business' has been used to design their 2010 limited edition poster. T-shirts will also be available.

Hope to see you there!

Here's another Peek

2010-04-01T18:05:00.006-04:00

(In Progress)
This painting allows the viewer to witness a chance meeting high in the thorny branches of the Acacia tree. A grazing Giraffe comes face to face with a Lilac Breasted Roller (not yet shown). The tree provides shelter for one and food for the other. This odd couple seems to show interest in each other or perhaps just an unspoken greeting. Check back to see the finished painting which is not yet titled. Suggestions anyone?

Just a Peek!

2010-03-29T14:08:00.006-04:00

(In Progress)
While I'm working on several canvases at the same time I thought I would give you a peek at a few of them and their development in progress. This one is titled 'God of the Upper World' and this detail shows less than half of the painting. Why that title? The finished painting will reveal the answer!

Eco-Expressionism?

2010-02-25T10:37:00.012-05:00

(click image to enlarge)

If you Google the term "Eco- Expressionism" you won't fine a suitable explanation for it. It is however a term that seems to be a good fit for the description of my style of work.
The definition of ecosystem is as follows: Living things — and the physical environment in which they live — that form a complex, interconnected web of interactions and relationships.
Each of my paintings represent a window into a specific world. My intentions are to create my visions of a recognizable environment using a vivid palette along with bold shapes, patterns and expressive life forms that nature provides. They are my expressions of reality. You won't find Photo-realism here.
It is the typical trait of Expressionism to present the world under an utterly subjective perspective, distorting it to obtain an emotional effect and vividly transmit personal moods and ideas.

While my intent is not to distort, Eco-Expressionism is my interpretation of the reality of nature as I choose to express it.
What do you think?

Finished Parrots

2010-02-23T16:51:00.004-05:00

Above are the finished paintings from my last post. These are just two examples of what is to follow in the next week or so. Birds have always been a favorite subject for me both on canvas and in person. These two are of a series of at least five portrait style 8 x 10 paintings that I will display at the up-coming Rainbow Feathers Bird Club Expo in May in Romulus, Michigan where I will be their featured avian artist.

On Track

2010-02-19T20:22:00.006-05:00

(In progress)

Though it's been over a month since my last post I can say with all certainty that I am on track.
My Colored Pencil workshop that I gave for VAAL, The Visual Arts Association of Livonia, was a hit with my students as well as the organization. My plans to spend more time in my studio has become a reality and I now have several canvases going at the same time. I plan to first complete five 8 x 10 canvas boards which depict a portrait style painting of a brightly colored Parrot on each. These are to be exhibited during a one day event in Romulus, Michigan at the Rainbow Feathers Bird Club Expo where I have been once again invited to be their featured avian artist.
There is more exciting news but that is another post!

Colored Pencil Nature workshop

2010-01-11T11:21:00.015-05:00

Time is quickly approaching for my workshop at Vaal (Visual Arts
Association of Livonia) which is scheduled for February 4th & 5th
from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm each day. The magic will happen in room
14 at the Dickinson Center at 18000 Newburgh Rd. in Livonia across
from Laurel Park Mall . I will demonstrate my techniques of creating
fur, feathers and various other textures of nature.
Here are a few examples of my Colored Pencil work.

There are still a few spots available so don't wait!

Plans for 2010

2010-01-04T18:44:00.005-05:00

My New Years resolution for this year is to paint more, eat less, exercise more, catch up on my house chores, organize the garage, spend more quality time with all the people that I care about and oh ya, more me time!
Couldn't the Myans have figured out how to stretch a day instead of when time is to end? That would have been more helpful.
But now that I'm watching The Secret as much as I can I'm only thinking of what I can do and not what I can't.
So this is what I can do. I can plan on two new paintings per month. I can have a successful Solo Show at LSG in Ferndale in November. I will finish writing and illustrating my childrens book this year and I will fit in some of that other stuff I mentioned earlier.

Don't say "if". Say "I can". Say "I will".

'Heliconia Hotel'

2009-12-19T09:04:00.009-05:00

These Red Eyed Tree Frogs will stay
at only the best accommodations.
New this year, 'Heliconia Hotel' was a
fun way to exhibit the dramatic and
whimsical character of this exotic
flower which is a relative of the well
known Bird of Paradise.

The "Art Prize" Experience.

2009-12-18T14:17:00.001-05:00

My good intentions to write about my experience in Grand Rapids for the Art Prize competition took an unscheduled detour. I've developed a serious condition called "Lazy-itis"! I believe I have it under control now so here it is. My time in GR during Art Prize was nothing short of amazing. It is fuel for my soul to be surrounded by other people, "artists", who live creatively. It was seven days of art, art, art. Every kind of art imaginable. Thousands of people emerged into the city to not only partake in the event but become part of the event. While there I fulfilled my scheduled obligations of painting on location in Rosa Park Square as well as the John Ball Zoo during ZooArt Day which was planned around my painting appearance. I spoke with many interested people at these events and enjoyed every minute of it. Each day I gave artist talks to the viewing public At Open Concept Gallery about my painting, "High Society" . While I did not return home the winner of the competition, I did win. My prize was the experience itself and one that I will always cherish.

The completion of "High Society"

2009-09-22T14:21:00.000-04:00

The creation of "High Society" has overcome the difficulties of life's roadblocks and pot holes. The conception of this piece was easy. The stages of development from beginning through completion gave me several obstickles to maneuver through. The poor health of close family members, the death of another, a move and the usual orange cones of life such as work, kids and daily duties. When all was said and done I passed the driving test. My painting has been completed and is now hanging in Open Concept Gallery in Grand Rapids, Michigan as it should. Raise the checkered flag, the Art Prize race is about to begin! The opening of Art Prize begins at 6pm September 23, 2009. Please consider "High Society" for your vote. My voting number is 27641

High Society in progress

2009-09-11T19:15:00.001-04:00

Four days on the count down clock. That's all the time that I have left to complete my newest painting "High Society". Six weeks ago I began applying sketches to my largest canvas to date. Even though six weeks have passed the actual amount of days devoted to this canvas is just twenty days!

A taste of High Society !

2009-08-26T09:45:00.000-04:00

Here you can see detailed areas of "High Society" in progress. At this stage I have put down the first blocked in layers and am just beginning to add more ingredients. The entire canvas is filled to the same degree but I want to leave something to surprise. I will share future development as more of the recipe is revealed.

My Art Prize venue is.....

2009-08-03T08:46:00.000-04:00

In my previous post I talked about the Art Prize Competition in Grand Rapids, Michigan. After Submitting a proposal for my intended work of art along with info about me and the entry the next step is to be connected with a venue to exhibit the work. Over 1500 artists are vying for only approximately 130 venues.
Open Concept Gallery of Grand Rapids, MI. has invited me to exhibit my painting, 'High Society', during the two week long event. This building features beautiful architectural elements that will enhance the experience of this exhibit and I'm looking forward to being a part of what is being called the biggest art competition in the world.
This competition offers a large amount of prize money and it is the public who decides the winners by way of voting. Voters must register at the event and place their votes electronically.
Please come to see this very unique event and remember that your vote for your favorite work of art can change someones life.
Click on the links below for more info about Open Concept Gallery and the Art Prize event.
www.openconceptgallery.org
www.artprize.org

Sketches for 'High Society'

2009-07-08T18:33:00.001-04:00

Here are just a few of the sketches for my painting in progress, 'High Society'.

Art Prize Competition

2009-07-08T17:11:00.000-04:00

Art Prize is being called the biggest art competition ever held. The epicenter of Art Prize is in Grand Rapids, Michigan just a couple hours drive from my home. This venture is backed by the DeVos family for the purpose of bringing more art and culture into the city as well as to help boost the economy.
My entry for this competition will be my largest painting to date which is 36 x 60 inches and titled 'High Society'. The following is a little info about the piece which is in progress.

'High Society' is a private viewing into the world of the Squirrel Monkey living in the Central American rain forest high in the canopy. This painting invites you to step into their world and recognize behaviors and emotions that you thought were reserved for a higher intelligence. If you look closely you might see playfulness, mischievous behavior, anger ,curiosity, security, maternal instincts and bonding. Perhaps love.
As the viewer go's mostly unnoticed by the world in front of them there is the opportunity to examine our own human society and realize that these and other creatures are equally as important as ourselves.

To learn more about Art Prize click on this link...www.artprize.org

'Monkey Business' Awarded First Place

2009-04-27T09:40:00.000-04:00

My painting 'Monkey Business' was awarded First Place at the Spring Fine Arts Exhibit at the Visual Arts Association of Livonia or VAAL. I was also awarded with an honorable Mention for my painting, 'Sudden Encounter'. I am honored to receive these awards especially due to the caliber of the art at the exhibit. Please take some time to visit the exhibit. You are sure to enjoy it and be inspired! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The exhibit location: Livonia City Hall 33000 Civic Center Drive Livonia, MI (At Five Mile and Farmington Road) Reception Date/Time: Thursday, May 7th 2009 from 7:00-8:00 pm Exhibit Hours: Livonia City hall business hours---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
www.vaalart.org

VAAL- Visual Arts Association of Livonia

2009-04-22T16:20:00.000-04:00

Every now and then I've herd about an art association in Livonia where there is bountiful really good art to be had. Last year I met a member from that association and he invited me to check it out. Well I did and what I found was a wealth of talented artists! This organization has been around for many years and now I'm happy to say that I have joined this group of talent and will share and collaborate with some of the finest in our area. Please visit the VAAL web site for more information.
www.vaalart.org

Splash of Orchid Color.

2009-03-24T09:28:00.000-04:00

My work is all about color, pattern, shape, nature
of course and color. Did I mention Color? I like to
surround myself with things that inspire me.
Things that I enjoy seeing every day such as
elements of nature. One of the things I enjoy as a
hobby is growing Orchids. As you can tell, tropical
and exotic subject is a passion of mine. So, growing
and successfully blooming these 'Jewels of the Jungle'
is very rewarding. Not all orchids come from the
jungle but they all do have an exotic quality. I thought
I'd share some photos of some of the Orchids from my
collection. The orange ones at the bottom are definitely
one of my favorites. This plant currently has 8 blooms
on it.

The 'Spots' have arrived!

2009-03-23T14:34:00.000-04:00

Well here they are in all their glory. The spots have arrived!
I believed that I have achieved my goal which was to bring attention to the stars of the show, the Orange Spotted Filefish, while I pack the stage with an array of colors and textures that is a feast for the eye of the audience. The fish here are the main attraction but their surroundings are too interesting not to look. The Filefish may be the first thing to catch your eye but you can't stay there for long, scanning around the canvas finding a place to rest the eye and quickly moving on to see more only to arrive back at the filefish.
My work here is done!
Added note: The spots are swimming away just as fast as they arrived. Their new home is in Irvine, California where Holly, (art collector of the sea) lives and where "Filefish Oasis' will proudly hang.
Holly is a previous collector of my work and I am pleased that she has yet again chosen my work to adorn the walls of her unique and colorful space.
Thank you Holly.

Work in progress 'Filefish Oasis'

2009-03-18T12:45:00.000-04:00

'Filefish Oasis' is the smallest of three paintings I'm currently working on. This is a small canvas, (10x15 inches). The subject began as these very brightly colored fishes in shades of Turquoise with Orangy-yellow spots all over there bodies and are about 4 inches long. The spots will be arriving soon! These fish feed on coral in the warm Pacific waters where reef life is abundant. As I began to imagine the diversity of life that make up their home I decided to pack this small canvas with many colors, shapes and textures. With my larger paintings I usually create a path for the eyes of the viewer to follow but in this case I've enjoyed creating the opposite where the viewers eyes can dart about the landscape resting on particular points of interest. 'Filefish Oasis' will soon be completed and I will post the finished mini-masterpiece by next week.

I'm back!

2009-03-07T16:36:00.000-05:00

I'm back! Going on Safari in the wilds of Africa and seeing the Amazon Rain forest was beyond my wildest dreams. And still is!!! I wish I could use the excuse of these travels as a reason why I'm not keeping up with my blog. But no excuses for me. The extent of my safari is my studio full of Orchid plants and a small zoo of pets all of which are considered family members.
I intend to make a blog entry once a week or may I never step foot in Africa or the Amazon.
(In this lifetime!)
I've spent the final months of 2008 working on making ACEOs or Art Cards, Editions & Originals and trying to improve traffic to my eBay store. (link at right)
By February of 2009 I was able to begin work on a couple of new smaller paintings. One is a commissioned piece of King Penguins titled, 'The King and the Prince', being shipped to PA this week. Another is of the Queen Parrotfish which the new owner of this painting found captivating on her trip to Aruba. I am currently working on three other paintings which I will keep you posted on. I'll be back after my next adventure!

"And we have a Winner!" Three actually!

2008-08-24T15:09:00.000-04:00

My last post introduced you to my newest painting, 'Showy Refuge'. Her debut exhibit is the 2008 Michigan State Fair Fine Arts Competition. I'm pleased to announce that 'Showy Refuge' has been awarded First Place in the Professional Michigan Wildlife Division.
I was also given two awards for the 2007 Julie Kane Peoples Choice Award, a Third Place for 'Tropical Tree House' ,which is now in private collection in the United Kingdom, and an Honorable Mention for 'Sudden Encounter' which can be viewed on my web site. These works are chosen by the visiting public who are able to vote for there favorite works of art. Thank you to all who voted for my work. It is greatly appreciated.
The 2008 Michigan State Fair is open through September 1st. Don't forget to vote for your favorite work of art.

'Showy Refuge'

2008-08-12T21:35:00.001-04:00

The idea for this piece began a little over one year ago. I wanted to use our northern Showy Orchids for an entry into the Michigan State Fair Fine Arts Competition in Detroit, Michigan. I didn't finish in time. I started the painting and even used it as a demonstration work during the 'Toad in the Hole' invitational show and sale at Devils Ridge Golf Club in November, 2007. The canvas sat on an easel for another eight months. There was a missing element. But what was it? The Showy Orchid is an illusive plant hidden off the beaten path. It needs very specific soil, water and light conditions for growth. They are a rare site. If on that rare day you happen upon a patch of them in full bloom, you will forever hold there beautiful image. Their flowers of rose, pink and white are a burst of drama in a sea of surrounding greens.
In 'Showy Refuge', a fawn was safely placed among the Showy Orchids by her mother until her return. Perhaps the fawns predators would least expect the showiest of all places. 'Showy Refuge' is on exhibit at the 2008 Michigan State Fair Fine Arts Competition August 22 through September 1 . I hope you get the opportunity to see the exhibit. I would be happy to hear your comments.

Where have I been?

2008-07-31T13:45:00.000-04:00

Obviously it's been a while since my last entry. Where have I been, you ask? I've had a few personal issues to deal with that have kept my creativity to a minimum over the Winter and Spring. Now, with the road a bit smoother, I'm happy to report that the creative juices are once again flowing.
I have also been working on a new website where my work can be viewed as well as purchased.
Nothing fancy but it will work out just fine. My eBay store, 'Tim Marsh-nature2nature', is still going strong and I am looking to expand in the near future.
With that being said, it's back to the drawing board!

Here come the Judge.

2007-11-25T20:01:00.000-05:00

The People that I meet during The Art Shoppe at Devils Ridge Golf Club were great. The event, put on by Toad in the Hole productions, was organized beautifully and I was treated like royalty. I was asked to demonstrate my painting technique during show hours. I worked on a new painting of Showy Orchids which I will post soon.

I was also invited to Judge the Oxford High School Art show which was on exhibit for the duration of the show. Judging the show was a pleasure for me and the student art was outstanding. I was able to meet some of the kids and was taken with their fresh enthusiasm for creativity.

Thank you to Toad in the Hole Productions for a very pleasant experience. It's always nice to meet new friends.

Off to the easel!

EXHIBITING : TOAD in the HOLE Art Show & Sale

2007-09-10T14:40:00.000-04:00

I have been invited to show and sell my work at Devils Ridge Golf Club in Oxford, Michigan. I will be in great company with 25 or so other Fine Artists and Fine Crafts People. I look forward to meeting you at this event.

Date: Saturday, November 17, 2007

Time: 9:00 am-4:00 pm

Location: Devils Ridge Golf Club 3700 Metamora Rd. Oxford, MI. 48371

ORCHARD LAKE FINE ART SHOW 2007

2007-09-01T15:58:00.000-04:00

This is a shot of my booth with show go'ers enjoying my work.

TROPICAL TREE HOUSE

2007-09-01T15:28:00.000-04:00

I've worked on this painting during the 'Sudden Encounter" piece. I can call it done after a few touch up's and additions. This piece takes you to an un-seen world in the low canopy of the tropical rainforest where the Red Eyed Tree Frogs make their home.

'Sudden encounter' Completed

2007-09-01T15:20:00.000-04:00

'Sudden Encounter' progress update

2007-07-30T12:11:00.000-04:00

As you can see the landscape is beginning to build up.

When completed, I expect your eye to immediately be drawn to the Lion fish and/or the pink Anemone in the foreground. Either way, I have created an elliptical path for the viewers eye to follow while allowing the Lion fish to be the star of the show.

'Sudden Encounter' in progress

2007-07-30T12:02:00.000-04:00

About one year ago I began this painting to be used as a painting Demo at the Orchard lake Art Show in Orchard Lake, MI. At that time I had just completed the painted sketch of the landscape and the Lionfish. This image is after a year of it collection dust and a few additional hours from last month.

ACEO

2007-04-03T13:36:00.000-04:00

ACEO stands for "Art Cards, Editions and Originals".

These cards have one main rule - they are 3.5 inches by 2.5 inches. They are the same size as Sports Trading Cards.

Art cards are made to be collected and/or traded. Now artists are creating, trading and selling ACEO's all over the world!

Like the name suggests, Art Cards can be originals or limited editions. Make sure you know which you are buying! If it is an edition, it should say so and be numbered and signed, usually on the back.

Shown here are a few samples of my ACEO's that I have just recently started selling on ebay. This is a set of six Colored Pencil Wildflower Cards.

Look for more to come!

I've been ShowCased!

2007-03-21T15:09:00.000-04:00

I've been showcased in the 2006 January/February issue of Art ShowCase Magazine, page 22. This is a Michigan publication deticated solely to promoting local fine art and venues of fine art.

I've read just three issues of this magazine and already I'm hooked. Oh, not because they've selected my work for one of thier issues but because I find this publication a very valuble resorce as an artist.

Recent Awards

2007-03-17T21:26:00.000-04:00

In October of 2006 I was juried into the Canton Fine Arts Exhibition here in southeast Michigan. This exhibit has built a solid reputation in it's fourteen year history. This was my forth year as an exhibitor and was honored for the third time as the Peoples Choice Award winner for my painting tittled, 'Monkey Business'.

In early February of this year I have received notice that I have been chosen as the Peoples Choice Award winner for the Michigan State Fair , Professional Fine Arts Exhibition for the same painting. (My forth People's Choice win)

Though juried awards are great, It's the award chosen by the viewing public that I'm most proud of.

Jamieson Collection (7 of 8 paintings)

2007-03-14T12:09:00.000-04:00

The Jamiesons have commissioned me to paint a portrait of each of their 'feathered' children.
The birds are able to view their portraits each day while playing on their playstands which are located in the same room as the paintings. They seem to enjoy them. It was a pleasure to work with the Jamiesons and their feathered family.

My Style?

2007-03-13T19:16:00.000-04:00

I'm often asked what style my work is. Some people say ," It looks so realistic". I say, "somewhat" and that's intentional. Some say it feels Dream-like or fantasy. I say,"maybe a little". Some tell me it can have a contemporary feel while others see a bit of traditional.
While I do feel that there is a cohesiveness to the over-all body of my work, in that it appears to have been painted by one individual, I personally don't feel that it fits into any one category. At least not one that I've heard of yet. My work does seem to have a touch of all of these elements.
What is clear is that I am drawn to bold, bright colors and strong images. I enjoy the relationship between separate elements or subjects within a scene or even the relationship between the painted subject and the viewer. My personal view is that all life, all living matter, is of equal importance and that is what I intend to portray.

The past year.

2007-03-12T14:50:00.000-04:00

I began this blog almost one year ago with the intention of informing my interested art followers of the current direction of my work as it unfolds. At that time I had some unfinished business to attend to such as commissions (The Jamieson Collection) as well as work for the 2005/2006 show season.

While I have accomplished my goals , the eight month projected time frame for the six painting commission became twelve months. My wife says that artists tend to have a distorted sense of time and set unrealistic goals. Personally, I don't see it!

2006-04-11T09:54:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my Blog