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.

Oscar Inspired Portrait of a Baby Chimpanzee

Oil

24 x 24 approx

2016

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!

Spring!

Looks like the Spring is here. The temperatures are high, the sky is blue, and the grass is all green!

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.

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!

"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.

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!

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.

Hand Lettering, Language, and Art

 Dream Big!

Growing up, like most kids, I would doodle and draw all the time. The margins of the notebooks were filled with smiling faces, bright eyes, random shapes, spirals, cubes, and figures. Expressing through arts, as they call it, was a happy outlet.

It definitely helped me focus better and think clearly. Maths was my favorite. Having to write less and expressing more was best balance that my right and left brain made through maths and drawings.

Playing with words and letters was another favorite. Writing the alphabets in different possible ways was an exercise to explore how to convert a word into a picture. Adding a visual appeal to what's been written in plain and simple words seemed like a right thing to do. Many letter were quite prominent in getting the preference such as B.  There were more than a fifty different ways to write B. And I tell you, this was over the top fun. It pleases me to know there are training schools that teaches you this natural artform. (Check course Lettering 101)

 Have a pen, will draw!

Classmates would ask me to write their names in different letterings and I was more than happy to oblige. I remember one of my classmates, how she would insist on touching the surface of the paper to feel the letters written. I would laugh it off but she insisted that it felt different when its written well. Oh, how I would like to believe her! Looking back, I wanna tell her how right she was. To me, its very comforting to see something written well.

My Name

(Two Point Perspective)

 
Even without a training, we look at something, we know when its aesthetically pleasing to the eyes.  That's sometimes called to have an artistic eye.  We all have it. How much we relish it, is a personal choice. To gauge the artistic talent, many teachers find it a useful tool to check the hand-writing. Its not accurate, but its a good starting point.

Say it with a song!

I am triligual. I can read and write three languages. When using one, my mind automatically translates it into the rest of the two. I can read in one and speak in the other without breaking the flow. Long time ago, this got me a job of news reader, in broadcasting. But that was a different story. Here the point is, its a privilege to be able to express with the aid of words and pictures.

Speaking of languages, I often contemplate the idea of learning sign language but haven't yet. I hope I soon do.  

In the meantime, I ask you to try playing with your words. Make your words sing to you, doodle if you like, create a visual story. Give it a try.  You'll enjoy it, I am sure!

New Year New Projects (Project Friends Ends)

I am quite excited to announce that the portrait series that was started around a theme has been finished. With a year full of learning, I am happy that I could not only meet the deadline but also could paint to my heart's delight!

Here are some snippets of this journey:

• Over a twenty portraits completed.
• Process: Photoshoot, photoprint, finalize a picture, paint. Repeat.
• I tried almost all the media - pen , pencil, pastel (hard and soft)
• I fell in love with oil all over again.
• On the side, I could start another series.
• Created other unrelated pieces for the exhibition acceptance. 

 

Untitled

18 x 24.5

Soft pastels on paper

I feel, I could educate myself on many aspects of studio arts and the importance of preparedness towards the creative process. The sentiment with which this whole series was conceived and finished was met with lots of encouragement and I tried my best to offer nothing but the best.

I could not include many into the series purely due to lack of available time. I am sure, we would work on something together in the future.

Now we look forward to the public viewing of this artwork. I will post updates on that very soon. Till then!

Happy New Year!

Time, like a bird, flies!

A moment, a day, a week, a month....where does the time go! I am amazed how fast the past year has gone by. So fast, in fact, I didn't get a chance to truly appreciate the offerings it brought. I would remember it very fondly. For being so generous and so giving that I didn't get a pause to thank it properly. So here goes, right now is the right time to say Thank You to the special year 2014. This year,

• Is the year of many firsts!
• Was made special by my munchkins, they make me feel so proud. Truth is, they have taught me the true meaning of life. 
• I met some of the most amazing people, who made a positive impression on my career. Some of them are - Gwenn, Roopa, Irene, Barbara, Carolina, and many of my models.
• I am very thankful for the support from so many of you that I am not sure I will ever be able to reciprocate. But I will make sure, I try.
• Enjoyed being among the old friends.
• A new member joined our family. Lovely new bride of my baby brother. What bliss to see them as a couple. 
• Met with my close as well as extended family.
• Enjoyed the new chapter of my life, I cannot wait for weekends to get over!
• Received great books, great gifts, and surprises.  

So many things to be thankful for but my very special thanks is reserved for my sweetheart, my power, my one and only, for being there for me this year and every year! Nothing is possible without him being around. Thank you for all the kind words, you have no idea how much they mean to me.

Looking back, friends and family, all I want to express is, gratitude.

Hope you are having a good start in 2015. May it brings you happiness and peace for all.  Happy new year!

Working for Self, Seriously?

I need to share about the freelance work.

Recently I had been asked what I do. And I tried to keep the answer tidy and direct.
"I am an artist."
"Oh wow. Okay." Followed by a pause. "So, what do you do?"
"I make art." I said excitedly, explaining process of painting portraits.
"No, I mean what do you do for a living?"
Okay, it was little awkward.
"I work as an artist, full-time. That's what I do."
Longer pause.
"Seriously?"

It would have been easier if I had said, hey I am an engineer. And conversation would probably have been on where I work or on what technology.


But, this is what I signed up for. So, enjoy the perks of being different. Enjoy the freelance life!



====================


After meeting the deadlines for the Fall shows, exhibitions and shows its a time for getting back to the work and letting that rush-to-create to overcome you. I can finally focus fully on the series' at hand.

While I wasn't blogging, in the past weeks, I

1. Finished two more oil portraits.
2. More than 2 pen portraits
3. 1 America artwork

Until the next post!

Portraits, Techniques, Likeness, and Life

Oct 1 - Oct 7: Day 49th of Friends Series

I have been drawing, painting, reading, and writing lately. As mentioned earlier, I met many new people during art show. And I cannot describe how helpful other artist have been. They gladly shared what they know and later sent more as promised. I cannot thank them enough for their help.


Portraiture

This is  a bonding process where a person tries to create his own version of how one sees. Its art and it also is science. Its 2 D in technicality and heavily 3 D for the artist. Or 4 D if you add the artist's perception to it. Artist tries to capture the essence of the model over the period of time.

Technique

There are as many techniques as there are portraitist. No single one is right or better. Some find realism to be the most disciplined form which may be true in a sense that if that's your goal in the first place. But over time, you learn to immerse in the process, and start to enjoy the process so much and so, that you hardly bother if that highly acclaimed belief of realism is only a way of seeing things.  The artistic license lets you enjoy the journey and the destination. Choose what suits you!  This is what I did for one of the works.

Likeness in Portraits

People find portraiture as hard because they think getting the likeness is not easy. Its true. Its not easy to get the likeness if you don't practice enough. There is a lot of relativity among different angles and shapes and the process requires a lot of swinging back-and-forth while creating a face.

When I do it with pause, there seems to be a harmony in the process. The focus is not on one part but the face as a whole. With this in mind, things just seem to be right. And when its right, you stop and gauge the balance. After a while, the process starts to balance itself.

Bonding Experience

I usually know when to stop. The work starts to speak for itself. It becomes a whole with its own identity and charm. At that point, artist need to take a step back and let the work enjoy its own identity. The bond between the subject and the artist moves on to next level. And that is a marvelous experience. Its too complex to explain in words.

First Juried Show

Sep 30: Day 44


With this day the month of September comes to a close. In October, we hope to see diversity experiment and the results thereafter. Here are some pics from the weekend :

The show was well attended

The work of artists were unique

 

 

The acknowledgement

 

The food

Call for Models for Series Friends is now closed

Hello,

I would like to thank you all for showing support and participating in the series Friends. The call is now closed.

 Niles Park

If you wanted to participate but could not, please feel free to contact me. I will surely be able to use the help for the future projects.

In the meantime, its all on me. Thank you again and I look forward to the progress!

-Bhavna