Artwork for Week # 8 - "Golden Celebration Roses", Small Oil Painting

Golden Celebration

Oil

6 x 6 x 1 in

2017

Large, deeply cupped Golden Celebration variety of rose flowers are approximately 3" across. The color is quite unusually deep and rich golden-yellow and exceptionally fragrant. These magnificent flowers (petals 55-75) are held on a very good repeat blooming shrub of ideal rounded habit of growth.

The brush strokes are thick and loaded with vibrant oil paint. 

Details

 

Artwork for Week # 7 - "Red Tomatoes", Small Oil Painting

Sweet Tomatoes

Oil

6 x 6 x 1 in

2017

Artwork for Week # 6 - "Sweet Nectarines", Small Oil Painting

Sweet Nectarines

Oil

6 x 6 x 1 in

2017

Available

Another rainy, grey week. Nectarines at hand. The choice was clear. 

 

I also noticed that the finished painting can be displayed from either side. :-)

Artwork for Week # 5 - "Fresh from Farmer's Market", Small Oil Painting

Fresh from Farmer's Market

Oil

6 x 6 x 1 in

2017

Available

It was painted as part of the from life weekly series. I was hoping for the sunlight but the week was dedicated to the storm and it rained all days long.

So I decided to utilize the diffused light and painted strawberries without composing them in any particular order.

Artwork for Week # 4 - "Stronger Together II", Small Oil Painting

Stronger Together

Oil

11 x 7 approx

2017

It was painted as part of the from life weekly series. I had this prop around my studio and it was very interesting how it responds to sublight.

Ever Changing Nature

Nature has its own mysterious ways to offer drama, amusement, and sense of immediacy for us to enjoy and interpret in our own words and capacity. Most times, a gorgeous view humbles and delights in the manner nothing else can - leaving me speechless in awe and wonder.

In moments like this, not knowing what better can I do, I try to put my ever-ready hd-camera to some use. In this post, I would like to share the recent captures the fleeting scenes of clouds floating in the vast spread of blue skies. Here are some humble attempts to catch those moments.

I took this picture from the middle of the street. I had to make an pico-second emergency stop to appreciate the Van Gogh painting created in the sky.

In the week of Halloween, setting sun put up an immense show to attract the attention from the human festivities.

 Sky as seen after a rainy day, as it started to clear off. limitless screens of clouds set a grand stage.

Mission San Jose skyscape

When the clouds settle in the rearview.

 A cloud parade

An early morning sky in this Fall

Summer Sky

Clouds rest on the cross-street, while a horse jumps at the top

Clouds on the loose

A down-quilt of clouds enveloping the sky

A heart on horizon

Are you a nature lover? Do you like to watch sky? It would be nice to see what you have to share.

Portraits of National Parks - # 6 Grand Canyon National Park, Wy

Grand Canyon National Park, in Arizona, is home to much of the Grand Canyon, with its layered bands of red rock revealing millions of years of geological history. Viewpoints include Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station and architect Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio and her Desert View Watchtower. Lipan Point, with wide views of the canyon and Colorado River, is a popular, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Here is my humble attempt to paint something immensely grand.

This painting is impressionistic landscape artwork similar to other ones in the series. I choose orange yellow sunlight as my guiding tool for the relative positioning of the mountain planes and the shadowed areas caused by them. The colors are dramatized as seen, not as are.

This artwork and similar pieces are available in small, medium (up to 24″), and larger sizes.  The painting is unframed.

I am excited to share that it is also available in high quality canvas wrap with sides in black. For larger sizes’ prices and customized artwork, feel free to contact me at bhavna.misra@gmail.com.

The price range is based on the painted sq inch area. Being an independent artist, I am open for the reasonable offers. But if you like this one, I can assure you, you will love it manyfolds when you see it in person.

Upcoming Series : Portraits of National Parks

Art has given wings to my imagination and opened up the windows of limitless possibilities! Without art and creative outlet, I had never known the beauty and intrigue a simple piece of nature can hold. I feel very fortunate to have a life surrounded by the natural beauty and a gift to be able to express it into my way of interpretation.

 Color Study for the Upcoming Series - Portraits of National Parks

As I move along my new series here is the tentative plan. I would choose some of the national parks and a few other landscapes that I admire. There is no particular order but some of the shortlisted landscapes will include:

1. Big Horn Mountain, Wy
2. Glacier National Park, Mt
3. Big Sur, Ca
4. Echo National Park, Ut
5. Joshua Tree National Park, Ca
6. Grand Teton National Park, Wy
7. Denali National Park, Ak
8. Yosemite National Park, Ca
9. Grand Canyon National Park, Az
10. Acadia National Park, Me

Portraits of National Parks - #1 Bighorn Mountains, Wy

 The Summer has an elixiric effect on the creatives. Bleaching sun, longer days, and overload of inspiration - makes a perfect recipe to get outdoors and paint. This summer is especially generous and I could devote myself to some of the most beautiful national parks.

Growing up in the mountainous region, I have special bond and affinity for the beauty of grandeur and enormity that mountains offer us.

"Bighorn Mountains" - Portrait of National Park #1

Oil

12 x 16 unframed

2016 

This is a landscape of Bighorn Mountain range in northern Wyoming and southern Montana, forming a northwest-trending spur from the Rocky Mountains extending approximately 200 miles northward on the Great Plains.

Conveniently located halfway between Mt. Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park, the Bighorns are a great vacation destination in themselves. No region in Wyoming is provided with a more diverse landscape - from lush grasslands to alpine meadows, from crystal-clear lakes to glacially-carved valleys, from rolling hills to sheer mountain walls.

 Lush brushstrokes of cad yellow, cerulean blue and a mix of violets

Purple, pinks, and sienna in different proportions

Crimson, Rose accented on sienna and lemon yellow

I took artistic liberty to paint the scene with the colors that I saw, not the ones that were there. Painting nature made the heart sing, go wild, and be one with the nature. 

Oscar Inspired Portrait of a Baby Chimpanzee

Oil

24 x 24 approx

2016

"Proud as a Peacock"

 Any art portfolio seems incomplete without the painting of a peacock. So, here is my humble attempt to paint one.

 "Proud as a Peacock"

Oil

2016

The title of the artwork has been inspired by the following story -

In 1956, John J. Graham created an abstraction of an 11-feathered peacock logo for American broadcaster NBC. This brightly hued peacock was adopted due to the increase in color programming. NBC's first color broadcasts showed a still frame of the colorful peacock. The emblem made its first on-air appearance in 1956. NBC later adopted the slogan "We're proud as a peacock!" The current version of the logo debuted in 1986 and has six feather colors (yellow, orange, red, purple, blue, green).  

Fearless Peacock in Ardenwood Farm

There are two Asiatic bird species Indian and African peafowl. Among the Asiatic species, his extravagant eye-spotted tail covert feathers which he displays as part of a courtship ritual. The term peacock is properly reserved for the male; the female is known as a peahen, and the immature offspring are called peachicks.

As with many birds, vibrant iridescent plumage colors are not primarily pigments, but structural coloration.

 
Indian peacock has iridescent coloration and large "train" of feathers that according to Darwin served to attract females, and the showy features of the males had evolved by the preferential selection.

In many cultures, peacock is often associated with wealth, good luck, and marital bliss.

Catholics adopted the symbol of the peacock to represent resurrection, renewal and immortality. This came from the ancient legend that the flesh of the peacock did not decay. In Hindu culture, the peacock is the vehicle of Lord Kartikeya, the god of war. Peacock feathers symbolize the fine taste, beauty, and perfection.




Kartikeya as painted by iconic painter Raja Ravi Varma

It is thus common to decorate with the imagery of peacock and/or peacock feathers. For more pictures and progress log on this artwork is wip. I hope to share it soon.

Staying Fluid

My work is on display at my studio, my site, shows, and through online outlets. Making my artwork available for everyone to view, is the process of sustaining and creating better art, an enjoyable and meaningful one.

Morning Fog

Oil

20" square

2016

Its been very hard to part with my work, but slowly, I have started to learn to respect letting go. Once an artwork is ready, it develops a life and personality of its own.  The artist needs to step back and allow it to chalk out its own journey from this point on.

Pink Floral

10 x 14 Approx

Oil on Board

2016

The artwork is then priced and put on a display.  The exhibit is an indicator that the artwork is now ready to be taken. I invite the viewers to choose the price they are most comfortable with and oftentimes, let them pick the best offer they can make. All they have to do is, contact me. I also offer the prints on canvas and similar work in different sizes or make a custom piece on commission.

Wild Flowers Summer Garden IV

10 x 14 Approx

Oil on Board

2016

Its a win win for all of us. To see a painting go to a happy home is a very gratifying part of the day. Sometimes, people send me back the picture of the displayed art that they had purchased. It makes my heart sing! 

Life seems meaningful and so does my role in it. It helps me create with more enthusiasm, more love, and more of everything nice!

Kitty Bouquet

Oil

2016

 

From every painting, I learn something new - it invariably gives me a sense of growth. This happy vibe keeps me moving, and I am very grateful for everyone who becomes part of this creative and meaningful journey. 

"Let it flow..."

Are we there yet - defining your own destination

Once I figured out that I was ready to give up on a nine to six job, the journey actually began. It was not a pre-planned move to quit and start my own studio, but it was not an accident either. It was always in the back of my mind that one day I will paint full-time.

I would not pay much of my time or resources to this dream of mine due to one thing or another. But like they say, you cannot stop the force of an idea whose time has come. Just like that, one day, when the time came - I knew I had to work on it. As I let myself follow on this dream, I have to admit, it seemed so natural as if I had been swimming against the flow all along. It was right there but I had not opened my eyes to see it. But once I did, things started to fall in proverbial alignment.

I received help from left and right, heard encouraging word, and kept going. In the past years that have been dedicated to arts was one of the most relished and grateful time of my life. It gave me opportunity to meet with amazing people around me, learn new things on everyday basis, and above all rediscovering myself all over again.

I hope to contribute in a meaning way, share whatever little I know, and be part of the amazing gift we call life with a purpose in heart. I was recently interviewed by Professional Artist magazine as a part of their 30th anniversary issue. I found it a moment of honor that I am viewed as a part of the artist community and my humble opinion is worthy of being published by this prestigious publication.

Professional Artist Jun/Jul 2016 Issue

I know may of us have those moments that can be a game changer. If its one for you and you are looking for a sign, here it is - take the plunge. We only have one life to live, don't live it with regret of not trying!

Once we are exposed to the pleasures of the journey, we do not long for the destination. The journey becomes the destination!

Peace on Earth: Portrait Show in Feb

For this show,  I have painted six big sized portraits,  I am sharing a couple of those here. 

While researching for this show, I came across the interesting fact that many World leaders respected the philosophy of non-violence introduced by Gandhiji and most of these followers received Nobel Prize for peace.  I chose the people who are working or have worked towards the world peace through a great deal of compassion and integrity. 

They all faced hardships, criticism, and resistance for their efforts, but they responded with love and conviction and fought for the basic rights of humanity. This portrait series is my humble attempt to show my gratitude towards these grand personalities and pay my respects to them and all those who believe in power of love.

 "King"

Oil 

Process

Each portrait is painted in defined, saturated brushstrokes on the canvas.  I used direct brush drawing on the surface and for most part, let the light dominate the display instead of the actually painting the skin color.

The portraits are saturated with mid tone-hues and crisp strokes. The paint leaves no area exposed and layers of colors blend the unique effect for each viewer. Its clearly the intention to not fuss over the tight likeness but to involve the entire persona. 

 "Bapu"

Oil

From the distance the flag dominates, which introduces the country of birth of the leader, and as you walk closer, you recognize the person, and if you come even closer, you witness a playground of warm and cool tones of colors. 


India Republic Day

India celebrates Republic Day to honor the date on which the Constitution of India came into force on 26 January 1950 replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India. 

The main Republic Day celebration is held in the national capital, New Delhi, at the Rajpath before the President of India. On this day, ceremonious parades take place at the Rajpath, which are performed as a tribute to India; its unity in diversity and rich cultural heritage. On those lines, we try to put together a vibe of celebrations in our adopted country. This year, I am excited and honored to be part of the ceremony by sharing my portrait work.


Celebration in Fremont

The show is scheduled for Feb 6 in Central Park alongwith multiple dance and talent contests. It is an open event and you are all invited.

On the Cover of Key2Arts' Recent Newsletter

I am glad to share the Key2Arts newsletter that has featured one of my paintings on their cover.

In each newsletter, they choose and promote one artist by putting his/her art as the cover and adding links to the artist's profile and artwork page.

I would like to thank Kathy, for choosing this image for the 77th issue.

As many of you know, it is one of my beloved paintings. It's now proudly hanging in a lovely home in Bay Area.

How Long Does it Take to Paint a Portrait for a Show

In the making of Dreamer, my sitter sat for me for about a 30-minute photoshoot. I took almost about 50 or so pictures from various angles.

Camera has a very conspicuous impact on us. It makes us smile at any given moment :-)
Once the lens is pointed at us, we just cannot help but let go whatever expression we're wearing in exchange for this perfect blissful smile. We are trained that way - to present our best two second lens-perfect smile. So, its a skill to let the sitter loosen up to the point where they let you get beyond that practiced smile and capture whats most natural to the sitter. It takes a while, but we eventually get there.

After the photoshoot, I printed out the whole shoot and set out to select one. Once I had that perfect expression I was looking for, I chose it and had it enlarged to read it further. I reviewed my interaction with the sitter in front of this printout. Once that connection is made, I examined few options for the size and composition.

Selected Ref Photo

I selected a 16 x 20 for the portrait and painting started. Along the way, I realized, the background of the work had a great influence of the works of Gwenn Seemel's paintings. So, before moving forward, I emailed Gwenn and asked for her blessings and as expected, she had all the encouraging words about remixing it in my artwork. So, I went ahead and let the brush do its work.

 

 Dreamer  

almost 80% done

I wanted to change the color and texture of the outfit of my sitter. Here is the Maxican peasant top that I admired a lot for its feminine touch with lovely white color and delicate colorful-embroidery. It seemed to be fitting to have it on the sitter who loves this color and have this kind, compassionate demeanor.

White peasant top

Then I adjusted the tone of the overall painting. darkened a few spots, added some light in desired parts and pulled it all together as a whole - the backdrop is becoming part of the person.


At this point, I let the painting sit. And I observe. this period is one of the most important time to ponder over - I start to have the feeling of departure. I know in the next sitting it will be over. The entire journey will come to an end. The end saddens you like any other awesome, productive journey, that you don't want to end and thus unconsciously, I delay this stage.

Once I am ready to let go, I return back to it. At this point, I know what will go where - the painting practically finishes itself.

Palette for the portrait

 Artists are often asked, how long we would take to finish a painting, and I am no exception, "I cannot really say!"  Technically, there is only this much time you need, but in real life, you never know. 

Finished Portrait

Once the paintwork is over, The portrait is allowed to dry completely. Oil paints take longer to dry especially if the weather is not warm. Once dry, I paint the edges with protective paint, mostly acrylic variety. This saves the corner of the stretched canvas, in an event we would like to have it re- stretched or hang without frame. 

Later, I have the work varnished. Its usually a non-yellowing, matt-acrylic coat to protect the oil quality of the paints. 

Finally, its sent to the professional framer who makes sure the presentation is in-line with the basic color-scheme. At this point, the painting is all ready to hang!

Not the greatest pic but here it is!

 Now, you get a glimpse into the process. Its long, tedious, subjective, and unexpected. Would I like to repeat it again? Oh yes, any given day, just ask me! 

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

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!

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!