Wednesday, December 30, 2015

You are Invited: New Shows in January



Hello!

I am happy to invite you to two of the art shows that I am participating in.

One is group exhibit Gertrude Stein: Shorn where I am showing a portrait and the other one is solo show, Expressions. By pure coincidence, both shows are opening on the same day, January 3 and thus, I will have to miss the reception on one. But you can attend both and enjoy the works of art. 

"All Mine"
12 x 16
Oil
2016 - Year of the Monkey
Artwork from the show Expressions


I will be happy to see you at the show. In the meantime, stay warm and enjoy your holidays. Wish you a very happy year of the monkey!

My best,
Bhavna

Monday, December 21, 2015

Complete Circle of Animals


I am excited and honored to present you the result of my journey of animal portraiture . While researching for this project, I learnt a lot and I hope the viewer will be delighted with the results.

 Circle of Animals


 Collage of zodiac animals in the order
 

About the Artwork
The Chinese zodiac is also called "circle of animals". It is a scheme and systematic plan that relates each year to an animal and its reputed attributes according to a 12-year mathematical cycle. The term "zodiac" reflects several similarities to the actual calendar of 12 months.

Each year is represented by the names of animals and each is widely associated with a culture of ascribing a person's personality or events in his/her life to the supposed influence of the person's particular relationship to the cycle. Although similar to Western zodiac, it has 12 parts the two have major differences: the Chinese 12-part cycle corresponds to years, rather than months. The Chinese zodiac is represented by 12 animals, whereas some of the signs in the Western zodiac are not animals, despite the implication of the Greek etymology of "zodiac". The animals of the Chinese zodiac are not associated with constellations spanned by the ecliptic plane.

These sign animals are rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.

Here are the individual oil paintings. Enjoy!

 Little Bunny

  Wild Boar

 Dhole dogs made an entrance in the series as Daisy (as in the collage above) found a happy home.


 Mother Gorilla with Baby

 Mother Buffalo with the Baby

 Brown Mouse

 Mother Sheep with the Baby

 Cobra


 White Tiger

 Australian Pony

 Rooster

Monday, December 14, 2015

Last Show of 2015


I have no words for those who consistently have been supporting my art. They do it selflessly, lovingly and, just so naturally. It was very touching when they offered the gift of their time to come down to wish me on my show's reception. From the deepest of my heart, I send my gratitude and best wishes their way. You know who you are and I have very cliched, but heartfelt words for you - "Thank you!"


Cellphone Collage of the Show

The show runs till March 2016. If you haven't visited, feel free to stop by when you get a chance. I was told "Now You See It" has an interesting touch. Let me know what you think.

Our photographer could not be there on the day, so we made up by sporadically taking pics from cell phone. Sorry about that. But if you have any from the show, please do share with us.

Happy holidays, everyone!

Friday, December 11, 2015

Art, Show, and Long Nights


December is already halfway past and before you know, it would be time to welcome the new year! I like this rush, the urgency, and the festivities this time of the year brings.
The days are short, evenings are early, and the nights are looong. This means more time indoors - more time with family.

In terms of creativity the process takes the different spin. It starts to align to the slower pace of artmaking. I like this nature driven healthy and wholesome intervention for the creatives. In response to season's suggestion, I transition from demanding painting to humble aspect of artmaking, that is, drawing. So, in this time, painting seems to become somewhat infrequent and drawing dominates most genres of my art-work. Which in turn, helps me revisit the fundamentals and prepare better for the later. The drawing and coloring that I can do cuddled up in the couch or bed has its own rhythm. Its like nature telling you to slow down, analyze what you have, and enjoy the basics. And I listen.

This December is no exception. The group show rushed us artists to bring out our best works to show and once it is over, we can happily step back and enjoy the season.



Today, I look forward to meeting friends, old and new during the reception of my solo. Without their support, things hardly make any sense.

I also like to take the moment to show my gratitude towards the gallery showing my work. I am very thankful to the people who made it happen for me. They showed trust in a dreamy newbie - it is a huge step towards encouraging and supporting art and the artist. And in return, this artist assures to keep doing her best!

Happy Holidays, everyone!

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Olive Hyde Show - Sneak Peek


Getting ready for the show


 Butterfly Art for Sale


 Tile Coasters


 One of a kind, handmade ceramics





Painted Artworks


Beautiful Decor



For more information, please visit this link:

Friday, November 6, 2015

Hello November!


As the month of November begins, the air starts to get heavy with chill and moisture. Around the same time arrive the festivals offering warmth and reason to look forward to this time of the year.
Some memories of October - 

  Mini Pumpkin Patch!

 Cinderella Pumpkins
 
 White Gourd Pumpkins








 Mama Swan with Baby




Monday, October 26, 2015

Motherhood, Arts and the Balancing Act


Hardly a day goes by when you won't come across the debates over the work-life balance. Whenever career, choice of career, staying-at-home, working part-time or anything inbetween is mentioned, you are presented with a plethora of views to support your opinion about what balance means.
This discussion often ends right at the point it begins. Each side supports and defends the choices that they make for themselves, by option or by circumstances. And that, in fact, is the answer to the debate, that - There is no right choice because the decision is subjected to personal options or/and lack thereof. And yes, there is something called the balance but its dynamics are defined distinctly by the individual.

Barring the workaholics - the people who choose work over anything else - rest of us can define and enjoy what we call balance. It may not be same as another working person but its your life and you choose to decide what gives you happiness. Your goals and achievements are your priority and their success is determined by the efforts we put in.

My decision to become a full-time artist was not predetermined but a series of happy coincidences that slowly took the shape of reality.

I was a hobby artist all along. Starting the journey as a kid, like most of us do, I was fortunate to receive support from family and friends. Then came a really big moment. I got discovered!
In a really big way. When I was about 8 or 9 years old, we lived in a small countryside in hilly area of India. During Summer, we had a chance to host an accomplished and very well respected artist from out-of-town. He noticed my passion for arts and made it known to my family. He felt that I was artistically blessed and had a naturally exceptional talent. With those words, may he rest in peace, he filled this little girl with unstoppable confidence in her abilities. That day on, I was never ever questioned about what I drew, painted, or created. My art supply requests, big or small, were always entertained, with equal, if not more excitement as towards the academic needs.

Knowing, you have it, makes everything possible. And that's what happened. I drew more often. Challenged myself more often. And whenever the  doubt arose, his words quelled it there and then. he had returned back to his hometown after spending a few weeks but his words stayed with me to date. In coming years, I started to set my goals higher and I cannot thank people around me to encourage to keep going. Although I didn't get any formal art training,  I received ample chances to access the best resources to learn.

Fast forward to marriage and kids. After my children were born, I came to realize my priorities needed to be changed. And that helped me choose motherhood over nine-to-six job. And around this time came an opportunity to learn in a classroom setting. I took the class offered by the local community college. I have no words to describe my joy to attend an art class!

My first ever art class made me think and practice in a way I had never done before. The semester end grade confirmed my passion in a tangible quantitative manner. It also cleared the way for another class that I took in painting. About this time, I had my work accepted into the year-end show. That could be called an exposure. I had won some school/college level contests, but this one was different. I got accepted as an art student! That opportunity laid the foundation of my decision to paint full-time in the coming years.

By Spring of 2014, I knew I was ready. I had no doubts on my capability, I never did, but the idea of working full-time in this field seemed frightening and yet welcoming! I am just so glad I chose it. It was the right decision and the timing was just right. Since that day, I have been making art and hoping that my purpose of life would become a reason of delight for others.

People often ask me how I make time to paint despite young children. I say, its not despite, its because of the young children I could fulfill my dream. Motherhood is a blessing and the responsibilities of being a parent come first! It is a choice and a very satisfying choice. Motherhood not only helped me follow my dream, it always brings a sense of meaningfulness into the artmaking.  It, naturally is a favorite genre to create. Some of it I share with you all and you could tell its created by an artist who is a mother.

With all this ado, I share "Mama Sheep" with you:


 Thanks for reading. Wishing you all the success in chasing your dreams!









Circle of Animals

#1 - Year of the Sheep

 

It is a series of animal-portraits inspired by the zodiac cycle of 12 years with one year represented by an animal. Each year is dedicated to one animal and that year is called its year, such as 2015 – year of sheep.

Focusing on the wildlife aspect of this cycle, I made 12 animal portraits. All paintings are of the same size and are meant to be displayed together. I took my artistic license to “free” the animals from their barns, animal shelters, and collars & harnesses. They all are painted in their natural habitats and possibly with their mates or offsprings.

To generate interest, I tried to choose some variation among the representative animal. For example, for the year of tiger I chose white tiger over a traditional yellow/orange Siberian or Bengal tiger. It gave me a chance to explore deeper, learn better and possibly, pique the curiosity of the viewer before reading the caption/title.

This series is a part of project “Nature” where there are landscapes, seasons, and more animals.

I used my own photos as references that we took during our trips to zoos, farms, animal shelters, and parks. And I am so very thankful to the photographers who lent their support by allowing to use their ref photos without hassles of copyrights. They were invaluable resources for the subjects living in lands far and away. Despite my best efforts there are a few that have no available photo credit info. I will mention that along with the photos of paintings.

I will add photos to the album one by one and I invite you to guess which animal aligned with the year of dragon. :-)

Do let me know your thoughts. Enjoy!

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Fall Painting Season







Its that time of the year when the studio is packed back to back with artwork in progress and finished. Loving the hustle-bustle!

Friday, October 2, 2015

Cherry Blossom Oil Painting

Cherry Blossom 
Oil on Canvas

Seeking a Writer

Position Title: Art Writer
Duration: 2- 3 weeks
Location: Anywhere, remote work is okay

Duties:

In the role of Art Writer, you will be describing the paintings and drawings in a positive and engaging manner. The details should be accurate, informative, and easy to read.

It should convey all the details about the artwork, connect it to similar artworks, and be meaningful for the viewer.

This Job Is Right For You If You Are:

Familiar with basic art-making techniques
Able to understand art terminologies, such as watercolor, pastel, canvas etc.
An engaging, creative, and highly accurate writer
Able to research well and be up-to-date about the facts
Able to compile and mention the sources of research, other weblinks and names of the writers in case of reference to book(s)
Punctual and never miss a deadline
Comfortable writing in many different formats and open to suggestions
An independent self-starter, but you also enjoy collaborating with others
Proficient with word, pdf and basic text editing tools

Other:

Any prior experience towards published writing is a plus.
Interest in nature, wildlife, and/or art history is a plus.
This project have a scope of a long term collaboration for later projects of similar nature.

How to apply:

Please email a resume and expected compensation to Bhavna.Misra@Gmail.com
Should be able to provide 2 references
Links to published work is desired

Compensation

It is a paid position and compensation depends upon the experience.

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

"Dragonflies - Face the Sun" - Finished and Free to own!

 Dragonflies - Face the Sun
Oil
9 x 12

You receive this painted drawing as a thank you from me when you pledge to become a patron.
Plus, you will receive the other bonus artworks along the way.

If this one is claimed, I will make one just like this or one of your choice.


Wednesday, September 9, 2015

"Burano in the Evening" / Venice - Finished and Ready to Own

"Burano in the Evening"/ Venice
Oil on Canvas
(Without Frame 16 x 20 Approx)


Burano is an island in the Northern Venetian Lagoon, located in  northeastern far from Murano and Venice, to which it is connected by the Canale Bisatto - Canale Carbonera.

Today in Burano there are around 3000 inhabitants, while the total number of people living in Venice and its islands is about 60000. This city is considered most  beautiful and colorful in the world.

The city has inspired multitude of artworks and I am no exception. Inspired by Thomas Hills work, I  have tried to capture the city's elegance complete with gondolas and the bridge.


About the Artwork

I have used artist grade oil paints to create this painting. It is sealed with varnish to maintain the luster and off-the-easel look. The edges are painted black in acrylic for the finished output.

The piece is ready to hang with unique shadowbox framing. Additional pictures can be requested before purchase. The painting is currently on display in design center gallery in Bay Area, California.



"Burano in the Evening"/ Venice (Details)

Additional Information
It is mailed with care instructions and certificate of authenticity. Buy at my Saatchi store.

Thursday, September 3, 2015

What You Don't See on My Facebook Wall



I had been meaning to share this for a while. Just didn't know where to start from or what would make a right set of words to express. Finally, I did what I usually do. Not wait for the 'perfect' note but pen down what I want to convey.
There may be typos, errors, some discontinuity, you name it but as long as it is meaningful, even for just one person, it will do.

What you do see

My facebook page is an outlet and a connection with outside world. I often post about the art, the paintings, the milestones, shows, awards etc etc. Its the joy, the excitement, and the above all, the sense of accomplishment that makes me want to share with all. Art has given me a direction, a purpose and a sense of usefulness. It helps me focus better on what I can contribute not just as a visual artist but also a responsible citizen. When I share my artwork or my love for artwork, I hope to make a positive impact on others' life.

My Audience

But all said and done, here is a fact - art is a thing of luxury and not the necessity of life. What it means to others is a choice. They may wish to bring it into their lives or may choose to ignore it altogether. Some might even get annoyed by the showcasing of paintings every now and then. Which is okay. I totally get it.

But as an artist, I cannot stop exhibiting art. It may serve no purpose to those who don't want art but I have a role for those who like art and welcome it. So, its something you would routinely see in your feed. Also expect it to get better in future. You, the viewer, deserve it.

Coming to the milestones. Anyone who trusts me enough to say a couple of encouraging words knows that sharing milestone news is my way to say thanks. An award is a tangible confirmation of the efforts and the sentiments that go into making that artwork. I share it with pictures and much gusto. It is in no way a means to undermine the other artworks that didn't win or got exhibited. Every piece has its own grace and a special place.

What I don't Post

I feel if you relate to me in any way, you would like to know what I don't share. It is not a pleasure to show everyone that behind many awards hide the multitude of rejections. Not all paintings make it to the juried shows. Not every entry wins.
In my studio, there are tons of failed paintings who never move beyond a certain level of mediocrity and hence never see the light of the day and subsequently gets painted over!
Behind successful commissioned art lie rejected proposals. Behind happily accepted painting-assignments lie unpaid works.

Yes, this is the stuff that never makes to the facebook wall of fame! Like it doesn't exist. But it very conspicuously does.

Its negative and powerful. So powerful that it routinely puts things into perspective and makes each success so much sweeter!

If you are an artist or not but sailing in the same boat - just know, this is how the life is. Enjoy what you do and keep a positive attitude. You will achieve what you are striving for!

















Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Frequently Asked Questions - Answered!





Bhavna working on her commissioned artwork



I am almost close to the wrapping up of the photoshoots for the portrait series II, and I thought its a good time to share some of my experiences about the process.


As many of you are aware, I use photo references for my portraits. Its the next best thing to painting people from life.

I put out the call for the sitters requesting them to offer their face to become my muse. I have been fortunate to have people respond and shape my artistic journey. In the past couple of years, I have painted a lot of faces and here are some of the things that visitors often ask me. So, I compiled some of it here.


I get asked this a lot - Why do you paint portraits? 

Portraiture is by far the most challenging and well-disciplined art form.  There is no contest that this genre can bring two people together with a sense of intimate and emotional connection in a way like no other leading to an appeal for all kinds of audiences.

Its my way of touching lives of more and more people and hopefully, making a difference in it. I hope to have portraits exhibited where more people can see it, but if it gets a relevant audience on sitter's wall, I am perfectly okay with that.

I am very thankful for this gift and I hope to paint as many faces as possible. I hope to learn by practicing more and more.



I so want to support this project but I am not model type.

You leave it to me - I will capture what makes you beautiful.


You said it will be exhibited? When can I buy it? 


I try to get the portraits ready well before the exhibition dates. Many times, the dates are not confirmed or not scheduled for weeks to come.  In that case, I would rather have the sitter/model have the portrait than having it sit in my studio.

You can buy it any time after its finished. I update about it as soon as possible.

Once the dates of exhibition are announced, I will borrow it from you and return it promptly after the display is over.


How much do the painted portraits cost?

Depends on what you can offer.

It is not a commissioned portrait work (see below), so, I respect sitter's choice in this department. You may think of this as an attempt to bring back the spotlight on affordability of painted portraits. Pay if you like to pay; but remember, you don't have to.
All I ask for is, sharing, if possible. Exhibit it on a wall for your own and other peoples' delight and you have just made me a very happy painter.

When the sitter offers to pay, it gives a tangible appreciation for the artwork. Like a  bonus. Not asked, but welcomed.  No amount is too small as long as sitter values the time and effort. 

I put it out there - whatever you can comfortably offer. I want you to have your portrait. To be able to enjoy, to hang on your wall and be delighted.
When the sitter sees themselves through my eyes, their reaction is raw and honest - absolutely priceless. That awe, surprise, appreciation, curiosity - a mixture of emotions that I receive in return is worth living for. Totally worth creating more art.

I feel, the hours spent in the planning, composing, creating, painting, communicating, and finally getting ready for viewing, were all well-spent! I am quite nervous before final showing but I have gotten better at hiding it!


I have never bought a painted portrait, so I have no clue about what's right.
Can you give me your price list to have an idea?

I recommend you google the going rate for similar work. Look for:

1. Experience and location of artist
2. Price they charge
3. Size/ Medium of work
4. Style of work

Then compare it with what I offer with my almost 2 -years' experience. See what's best for your budget. If it helps in any way, click on my price list for the commissioned artwork.
Or Click or cut/paste the link below in a new browser window:

http://creativitycornerofbhavna.blogspot.com/p/news.html


What is commissioned artwork?

When I am approached to create art, its called commissioned artwork.

In commissioned projects, specifically the portraits, there are requirements by the client. Once the price is negotiated, I basically do what I am told to do.  I work within deadline (which is usually not so bad, in fact, I like to work within set deadlines anyway) and get most of the aspects approved even before starting. In general, don't have much of control in terms of creativity.

As the portrait nears the end, the element of surprise is obviously and acceptably missing. The huge motivation towards artmaking boils down to the appreciation -  'Isn't that why we hired you?' and a confirmed paycheck.

So, you see, both have appeal, making for the series that I plan and exhibit versus commissioned project. Both have something I need to keep going. And I hope to keep doing both.




Do you get paid to show your artwork in exhibitions?

No, I don't.
On the contrary, most times, I pay to exhibit my work. I also pay for all aspects of presentation of my paintings, such as framing, labeling, and creating publicity. In group shows I get some support but I  take care of most aspects of the display.



No, I mean, it doesn't pay much, does it?

If you are entering into the art scene with hopes of making tons of money, I am sure there are ways but I am not the right person to address that aspect.

I don't paint with an intent to only sell. I do it as a duty, like a purpose. Money that follows, gets spent back on art. I am thrilled my work is self-sustaining and gives me motivation for a productive and a meaningful day.

I also paint and sell other kind of artwork. And it sells okay. So, we are good!



Where do you sell?

I sell via online gallery and ebay. The links are below:

Saatchi Online Gallery: http://www.saatchiart.com/account/artworks/803262
Ebay : http://www.ebay.com/usr/artistcreativitycorner



With time, I would gain experience and might have different plans, views and means to offer more and for now I am open to hear what you have to say.








Sunday, August 16, 2015

Learn to Paint, Paint to Learn


 

  Majestic - Recent Artwork
SOLD

 When it comes to paint, I have always something to work on. Mostly because I finish with a start.

Let me explain. I usually have a subject chosen to paint. Mostly faces. Sometimes one person other times, many. Its either a study or complete drawing. In any case, I have more than one artwork to work on. Although only one gets on the easel but in planning, there is always more than one.



Majestic in a Room

As soon as I reach close to the end, I know exactly which one is next. And when I sign the work, which usually happens around the time the piece ends, I start off the new one. And that's when I clean up the area and call it a day.


Majestic 2

This is a tip I picked from some book and I have to say, it is a wonderful one! Give it a try if you ever find yourself facing a creative speed-bump or painter's block, I am sure, it will help you.

Majestic 2 
11 x 14
Acrylic on Paper
Available (Click below to purchase)
















 


Monday, July 27, 2015

Artwork Available for Sale



I am excited to share some of the artwork that is available to buy. If you are a San Francisco Bay Area resident, there is no shipping fee.

From this Fall, I will be selling through online outlets, so that l can better focus on creating art. I will post the updates as it comes. In the meantime, I will add work here.

So far, I have sold my work only to people I already know. I did not get a chance to have a official website but I am working on creating one. So, I am curious to move onto the next step.

As I begin this new phase of my art-career, I am aware there will be a lot of opportunities to learn from. I will be very happy to share my experiences in hopes to help anyone interested. So keep watching this space.

As always, I will look forward to your support. I am accepting commission work and glad to discuss any art related query.

Click on the the link to the artwork for sale.Thanks for your support.

Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Roses

Roses
Oil 
12 x 16
Available in two weeks


Roses have been painted using only the palette knife on the surface. The texture of the paint is really thick and thus the painting welcomes the viewers to touch.

My old knife


 The new tool

My palette knife broke last week and I ordered a new one online. The shape and material is quite different than what I had been using, so I decided to put it to some use. The result was this exclusive knife painting.

It was amazing to work with paint this viscous, possible to apply only by this new tool. I am loving it.