Portrait Painting

Portrait painting can be one of the most rewarding painting exercises to work on. It's always a challenge to get it just right. Even with very famous people or non. The human face is probably one of the most looked at pictures in the world. I've painted Aidan Turner in this portrait. It probably is a little vibrant for most people. But I am testing out styles of painting. There are millions of styles and some that I haven't even thought of. Finding your set style is part of the artist journey.

If you like this painting pleas share with with other fans of Aidan. If you don't that's okay. I hope to paint him in different styles in the future.

Thanks Aidan for you great acting skills.

Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau is a fantastic area of art. It has a long tradition of taking people, products and animals and redesigning them to have clean lines and beautiful colors. Here are the top 10 traits of Art Nouveau Design.

1. Line work: the line work must be clean and elegant. The figures are often drawn to be long and tall.
2. Color : Most of the colors are soft and in the light colors. But warm and neutral tones dominate.
3. Hair: If you're drawing the figure pay close attention to the elegant shape of the hair. Extra detail is placed in the hair. Drawing out each strand in some images.
4. Circles as a focal point: Having a circle as a background focal point behind the characters heads brings the main focus there. Often it is used as a design element.
5. Message: Most of the messages are to show off a product or an event.
6. Reflections: If you have a complex illustration the main focal point can be reflected. Almost like a repeating pattern.
7. Borders: The borders are elegant and designed to be clean and ornate. You'll want a detailed weaving border that swirls around the edges.
8. Influenced by nature: Most of the content is nature driven. You'll see the subject matter dominated by birds, cats, horses, and women or romantic couples.
9. Detail: The details in the piece of art can range from very fine line work to a story woven in the frame. You'll often see a message with pictures. Similar to stain glassed windows.
10. Architecture: If the influence is in the home you'll bet the lamps or staircases have detailed looks and emphasis strong curved lines. Nature is the main focus on the design in the home. To bring an organic look to it.

If you'd like to see sample of Art Nouveau here is a sample below.

Two Buckskins with Pioneer home

Photography of two buckskin horses in a pasture and an old shed pioneer building in the background. The horses don't seem to mind me shooting through the fence. But they both do look like siblings. 

To collect Hidden Falls

https://society6.com/product/waterfall48775_print#s6-6065415p4a1v45

Looking to add a photo of Hidden falls to your collection. Check out the link above. You can get a copy of the famous waterfall though Society6.

Make sure to share with your friends.

Waterfalls: Hidden Falls

If you're in a mood to explore. Come walk with me to Hidden Falls, a short 1.3 Miles and 6783 Elevation you'll be in the heart of the forest.  A 100 foot waterfall is waiting for you to come and explore. The hiking trails are new and improved. Large paths let you easily climb the short distance. A fun beautiful boat rid at a reasonable price of $15.00 for one adult both ways.  The paths are newly fixed and it is easily accessible for those who might be brining children with you. Be sure to pack a light jacket while you spend a good 30 mins looking at the magical hidden falls.

The forest is pristine and heavy with the scent of pine and ferns. The trail is easy to follow and you'll hike up in a safe zig zag motion as you travel with your friends and family to your destination.

If you have plenty of time you'll want to continue your hike up to Inspiration Point. This 200 feet increase in elevation,  is  worth the trip as you'll be able to see out over the entire lake. Strong winds and crisp fresh air will keep you on your toes. The trails are well marked and wide so multiple people can walk past each other without fear.

There are plenty of local wild chipmunks to keep the children amused. Not afraid of people and accustom to heavy foot traffic you're likely to encounter the furry little friends along the way. Make sure not to feed them, even though they are surely to follow anyone with the food pack.

Pets are not allowed in this area. So make sure you leave them with a caring baby sitter as you travel up to your destination.

Take a selfie at the top of the mountains and be sure to share with me on Instagram.

For more information about the trail check out
http://www.tetonhikingtrails.com/hidden-falls.htm

Starry Starry Night meets Just around the River Bend

This painting started out as a good thought. But it really struggles with not knowing exactly where it should want to go. Trying to push away from the original character and change it enough so she is different. Exploring texture and pattern to see what would work best for this type of style.

Most art might seem formula unless you have a set style. If you like to explore styles you'll always be working towards a new look for different paintings.

Why Creatives should Play more

Play is important to coming up with solutions to the problems we face today. I want to encourage artist to go out and play today. I am guilty of working and focusing on the problem of work.

But for today I say go out and play.

https://www.ted.com/playlists/383/the_importance_of_play


Check out the Ted's Talks on taking time to play.