A New Year Already and Covering the Basics

"What was any art but a mold in which to imprison for a moment the shining elusive element which is life itself---life hurrying past us and running away, too strong to stop, too sweet to lose."

Willa Cather (1876-1947)

"The Branch"

Oil on Linen   8x16" 

Available Here

I just wanted to send out a post this morning and wish you all a Very Happy New Year. It is also a good time to bring you up to date on upcoming classes and events.

Classes will be starting up again in the Studio in Truckee this week, kicking off with a full demonstration while covering the basics of Oil Painting. Composition and Design, Value, Color Mixing, Observation Translation, Edges, will be addressed, as well as the

 three ways to start a painting and a few studio tips. We will start at 10am and go until the painting is finished, about 2pm. I will be happy to answer all of your questions about the way I paint. Bring a snack and I will provide water and coffee.

Here is the thing: Every artist has his or her own way of doing things, as do I. But when it comes down to it, the basics are the basics. This is what I will be focused on teaching in the studio. We will tackle them one at a time over and over again. Artists at any level needs this practice, just like a tennis player or golfer needs to keep sharp on their skills. 

Send me an email if you'd like to attend this demonstration on Wednesday January 7th. Classes are $50. or 4 for $185. Call me with any questions. (regular class times are 10-1:30 on Wednesdays) ranblaz@hotmail.com

I will be in Truckee most of January and February, so you can plan to attend these classes if you choose, after that I will be moving around some. I plan to teach at Patris Studio a couple of times on Tuesdays in March (Sacramento) and then I will be attending the Plein Air Convention in Monterey (one last time) in April. That means at least two or three Wednesdays in the studio in March and at least two Wednesdays in April. 

It is my belief that practice of consistent learning in the classroom is the best way to learn. In addition I believe in homework assignments and will be adding that into my classes this year. I will work with each individual at their own level and on the areas of their own weaknesses, along with keeping focused on their personal goals. 

Class size is limited.

I'm happy to announce that my painting, "Last Light over the river L'aude", was accepted into the California Art Clubs "Romance of Europe Exhibition". 

Oil on Linen  8x10"
$975
Available through CAC 

EXHIBITION DATES:

January 30 – May 26, 2015

LOCATION:

Altadena Town & Country Club 2290 Country Club Drive Altadena, CA 91001

"Last Day at Squaw"

oil on canvas, 10x10 $675
Available Here

Also on exhibition is the Small Works Show in Sacramento. You are welcome to come and enjoy all of these little beauties on Second Saturday January 10th 

Patris Studio and Art Gallery

3460 2^nd Avenue

Sacramento ca 95817

In February look for a group exhibition at The Red Dot Gallery in Sacramento. I will be one of twenty-one artists participating in the exhibition California Scape:Beyond the Snapshot, at Red Dot Gallery, in February 2015.  The premise of the exhibition is to showcase the work of artists who have a unique take on the regions, locations and/or elements of California, which go beyond the postcard imagery widely associated with our state.

"Ski Day" 

Oil on Linen   11x14x.15"

$875

See the show at the Red Dot Gallery, 2231 J Street in Sacramento, February 14, Valentines Day for the reception.