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.

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

"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!

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!

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.

Project Nature: Update

Nature Project


As you know, for the research of the Nature project I have been doing most of the following:

• Visiting the parks, farms, and zoos.
• Plein- air studies - rough sketches and drawings
• Taking photographs of the flowers, fauna, hills, animals - everything around us.
• Saving pictures from the 'net and securing permission from the photographers.

I am happy to post that my recent trips resulted in some creative ideas and fun sub-projects. I got to learn some amazing facts about the wildlife and get a curious insight into the lives of domestic animals.

About Myself

Growing up in a hilly and untouristy part of  Himalayas sowed the seeds of  affection for wildlife and especially animals. Hours long walks through the forest followed by the climbing up the hill just to reach the school, seemed like a daily picnic that could beat any of those modern day hikings.

I never realized those unsupervised hide-and-seek sessions in the forests would lead to a life of  independence, curiosity, and decision making.

Just going with the flow was the  only way of life. And that encouraged us to lead simple lives, enjoy even simpler things in life, and securing many years of great health and tension-free lifestyle that we have now come to recognize and appreciate.

Later in life, this spontaneity transformed into greater respect for the nature as I grew up. The fascination that once educated and entertained, later, turned into focus of reverence.


About Nature Series

As life coaches you to choose better as you get older, this decision to bring the nature into the center stage of the creative process, seemed justified.

But as I explore, I am further humbled by her magnificence. Its huge. Its beautiful, Its generous. Its everywhere. Its overwhelming generosity presents many questions including the most important one:

Where to begin from?

Let me start with the sense of gratitude. I am thankful for everything Mother Nature has gifted us with. This abundance should be our cue. Take only as much as you can return back with interest. And then go with it.

More on it as it comes...

Come Join Me: New Project Nature

I am working on the latest art series themed Nature.  In this series plan is to create a number of artworks that will give a glimpse of the offerings of nature.
Paintings will range from flowers to landscapes, abstract interpretation to realistic animal portraits and everything in between.
Once finished, it will be submitted for public viewing, publishing, and sale.


Timeline

The painting will begin asap and the series will end by June, 2015.

The preparation of the work involves following:

• Visiting the parks, farms, and zoos.
• Plein- air studies - rough sketches and drawings
• Taking photographs of the flowers, fauna, hills, animals - everything around us.
• Saving pictures from the 'net and securing permission from the photographers.
 

You are Invited

Please come  join me in this project.  If you have any ideas or photos that you would like me to paint, please feel free to contact me. I will be very happy to discuss it with you in my studio, online or over the phone.

You can share your pictures.  You will receive the photo credit.
Also, I will post the cross reference to your blog or a social media shout-out, whichever you prefer.
Any details about the image will help adding more dimension to the work. So, please feel free to elaborate on what, where, and why about the image.

You can share pictures taken by others as well. If sharing pictures for which you are not the photographer, please make sure you photocredit the person and secure the permission for the use of the images.



What kind of images will work best?

• Exotic animals, flowers, fruits, especially those I don't have access to photograph myself
• Natural scenery - interesting compositions, colors, water, unusual angles 
• Your own pets 
• Anything that you think can relate to beauty of nature

Contact Information


You can leave a comment here, or on facebook or linkedin.
You can also email me at bhavna.misra@gmail.com with Nature in the subject line.

I would look forward to hear from you!

America: Time is Now

America: Time is Now

Approx. 8 x 11

Mixed media/ digital

How many times did you tell yourself that one day you'd do this or one day you'd do that. A different job, a new hobby, writing a book, or something that you've always dreamt to do one day. 

That one day is today. In fact, its right here, right now! 

The theme of this artwork is highly inspired by the thoughts on these lines.

Sep 29 (Plus week of 22 - 26): Day 43rd today

Status Update

I have some progress during this week. Its about time I had some pics of the work available here. But I think, it is better to hold off for now.

If you are one of the models, please feel free to mail me for the pictures. I will be happy to send you yours WIP picture log.

To do

As I look at the numbers, I feel this project has slowed down quite a bit. The reasons are many but I have to focus on what's been accomplished. So, here are some guidelines for self:

• By the end of the week, have one piece ready from start to finish.
• Organize the to-do list datewise.
• Mail out the drafts.
• Update FB group on closing of call

Other Stuff

Last week, I had the opportunity to met with many artists during an exhibition reception. Some were new but most were quite experienced. They work in different media.

Its amazing to encounter so many creative people who use interesting ways to express themrselves. We shared lots of ideas and I was offered some great pieces of advice.

As I get back to the regular workday, I think about the event and the inspiring crowd.

America: States United

America: States United

8 x 11

Mixed media/ digital

Its second painting in the series of America. 

This painting is inspired by the first one, focusing on the history, this time.

To highlight past, the flag is shown in toned down hues. The wheels, the essential - states of the times - project harmony, diversity and interconnection.

The machinery somehow shows an upward tilt, which was unintentional yet intuitive gelling with the overtones of progress and growth of the nation.

Sep 18 - 19 : Day 37 Today

There are some changes underway. I have to get back to the drawing board (literally!) to make the changes in the series.

This means a slight delay as far as the weekly progress is concerned but Its within the scheduled deadline.

I have sent the new set of pics for printing and I await the pickup.

America - The Super Machine

America: The Super Machine

8 x 11

Mixed media/ digital

Its a wonder and relief that we are all different. Its this difference that make us beautiful. We come from different places, backgrounds, countries, and beliefs but its our acceptance and a sincere smile that lets us open up our hearts. When we learn to embrace the differences and seek the joy in the smiles of others, we enrich. Not just ourselves but others around us.

As the world becomes smaller, we all contribute to the global homeland and hope to leave it a better place than we found it.

About the painting: Shows a place by its flag where each and everyone contributes their part.  Role of some parts is less, for some it may be big - more visible, but every single one's, irrespective of their size, is necessary.  Along the way, parts wear out, get replaced with newer ones but the machine only works when it all moves together!

Sep 15 -17 : Day 35 Today

I am happy to report that I have only a few of the under sketches to do this week. If everything goes by the book. I should have 2 more finished pieces ready to show.

I have to admit, I am not quite regular on posting pictures. Its seems like a commitment to transfer the pics from cam to com! Its comforting to know that its all there and will be posted and thus gets ignored in the light of work-at-hand and creating art.

Last week was special for I participated in a well attended artists' reception to the HTLT exhibition that opened last week. Loved to meet so many established artists at one place. Attending it with family was a dream come true. I would like to thank all my friends who support me and came down to the gallery.

If you are planning to go, please make sure to check the main hall of the gallery where my work is on display until Oct 11.

Sep 8 - 12 : Day 30 Reached

This week was super special in terms of personal and familial milestones. So, it was no wonder that the blog was somewhat sidelined. But there was a lot of activity in the studio-space.

This is what was done:

• Underpaintings for the selected pictures. 
• Some passed others didn't.

I am happy that the work is paying off. It takes time to weigh in all the options by making a sketch out of the selected headshots and then selecting the one that looks better, but its rewarding to give each option a try and then making a final cut. What I mean is the order of steps as follows:

1. I select  5 - 7 headshots out of 25 - 40 model shots.
2. Try to thin it down to final 3 - 4
3. Draw a charcoal study sketch for all 3 or 4
4. Pick 1 out of the last bunch
5. Paint the selected study
6. If its not what I planned, back to step 1

Its tedious but worthy of efforts.

Sep 3 - 5 : Day 25 to 27

I could finish what I planned and more.

I finished the underpainting and later retouched it.
Its not what I had in mind, so I ma going to change it one more time.

Or, pick a different ref photo. I took some pics of the work but when I am too occupied, taking pictures is simply forgotten.

Also, there is good news to share. Remember, I mentioned a deadline earlier. That resulted in an acceptance. I would look forward to see the exhibited piece in the gallery.

In this past week, I met some amazing people. Talented, smart, kind and helpful. Its nice to learn something new from others.

Sep 2 : Day 24

By the end of the day I hope to get a few things covered:

Underpainting done
Pictures taken of the work
Make the phone calls