ArtSpace Exhibit Comes to an End

Our drawing group exhibit of work based on the figure comes to an end on November 18th.  One of the participants took this photo of the gallery and shared it with me the other day.  The framed piece to the left of center is my work.  Watercolor, charcoal, gouache and graphite.  It was great fun to participate; the opening reception an opportunity enjoy each other's work and learn from those attending how they saw and felt about the pieces on display.

Day lillies, Green River, Cairns, Shelburne, "Eros the Bittersweet", "Why Don't You Dance?"(Ray Carver)

When not in my studio I made frequent trips to the Green River to cool off this summer. Above are a few sketches I did while in the "woods"; some trees along the banks, day lillies and a cairn I built one really hot mornimg and afternoon.

The scene of dirt road and trees was something I did a week ago today in Shelburne; the floating figures are preliminary drawings to what I hope will be a large scale oil painting representing some of the dynamics in romantic love relationships. I got the idea while reading a wonderful book entitled "Eros: The Bittersweet". The book examines ancient Greek writing, poetry, art and traditions. The figures are floating in a dream-like environment much the way those in the grasp of Eros may feel when trying to understand themselves and the beloved in the confusing state of attraction.

Lastly, a preliminary pastel and charcoal drawing for a picture based upon Carver's short story entitled "Why Don't You Dance?" In the story a young couple driving through a neighborhood in the early evening come across a yard sale set up by a man who apparently has to sell all of his possessions. The couple meet the owner, he provides drinks, they buy, the couple dance in his driveway to music he provides and there are connections made and emotions to be understood.

These are from my sketch book. Pen and ink drawings that I have embellished with colored pencil. My scanning skills I guess are evident; have not quite got it down on how to square the image! The two at the top were done while sitting at Cafe Koko on Main Street in Greenfield, Massachusetts. The image to the left is a quick drawing done from the north side of Gloucester Harbor looking toward Rocky Neck, a favorite spot.

I plan to use these images on a series note cards I am in the process of designing.