2 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 3
Follow us @arttourinternational
Find us at your nearest Barnes & Noble Stores
CONTRIBUITORS
ALSO AVAILABLE ON DIGITAL PLATFORMS!
CEO/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VIVIANA PUELLO www.vivianapuello.com Email: viviana@arttourinternational.com COO/GRAPHIC DIRECTOR ALAN GRIMANDI www.alangrimandi.com Email: alan.grimandi@arttourinternational.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Mileidy Meléndez Sánchez Email: graphics@arttourinternational.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND EDITORS: Tiarra Tompkins, Paul Simpson, Selas Smith WEB DESIGN: Humberto Jose Orozco SOCIAL MEDIA: Romy Singh EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Yadira Roman CUSTOMER SUPPORT: Email: admin@arttourinternational.com Tel: 1 800 807-1167 ADVERTISING: To place an Ad contact: info@arttourinternational.com MARKETING: www.mediakit.art
This is an interactive publication! Look for the QR code to get the audio version of selected articles. Enjoy our embeded videos on the digital issues. ON THE COVER “Her Body - Her Choice” by Ric Conn
PODCAST “The Winner’s Journey” www.vivianapuello.com/podcast New Episodes each Friday ArtTour International TV Show https://www.arttourinternational.com/atim-tv-show/ Tune in on Thursdays at 5:30 PM EST In New York, Tune in to MNN-HD Ch. 1993 in Manhattan (TWC/ SPECTRUM). Outside of New York watch the live streaming of our show at MNN.ORG FOUNDATIONS: CREATE 4 PEACE www.create4peace.org ARTISTS FOR A GREEN PLANET www.artistsforagreenplanet.org GET FEATURED! If you’re an artist looking for a platform to expose your art, share your message and expand your network, contact info@arttourinternational.com for to find out how to get featured in our magazine. ATTENTION: Help us protect visual artists rights. The copyrights of all published artworks are retained by the artists. Magazine published by ArtTour International Publications, Inc. 988 Columbus Ave. New York, NY 10025. Copyright © 2022. Reproduction of any published content without the written permission of the magazine’s publisher is prohibited by law.
www.arttourinternational.com
A Message From Our Editor-in-Chief Dear reader, Happy Anniversary! We're celebrating eleven incredible years of ArtTour International Magazine. This month we received the great news that our publication ATIM's Top 60 Masters hit the Amazon #1 Best Selling rank; what a fantastic anniversary gift from the universe! The story of ArtTour International is the story of a team of artists that got together to make a dream come true. We've worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life for eleven years now. Twelve years ago, I had the idea of creating an art magazine. With the support from my partner Alan Grimandi and a team of five collaborators, we got to work. In November 2011, we launched this magazine's first issue to 1,500 readers, Vivid Arts Network artists, and friends. And here is how the story continues eleven years later! We have now published 56 issues, conducted 796 Art2Heart interviews, 40 Podcasts Episodes, and organized hundreds of international events. ArtTour International is now an industry leader with over two million readers in more than 198 countries. In addition, ArtTour International has evolved into a revolutionary multimedia platform dedicated to promoting artists worldwide, encompassing print and digital publications, an award-winning TV show, the "Winner's Journey" Podcast, The ATIM Masters Award Ceremony, the Artivist of the Year Awards, and more! We've built a family of artists and collaborators worldwide and have organized events during which we've provided the space for intercultural exchange, growth, and expansion. We have traveled to fifty-three cities with the ArtTour International TV Show. When traveling was not possible, we turned to online platforms to extend our digital footprint. In 2020, we created Mediakit.art to creative entrepreneurs opportunities to be prominently featured in leading media outlets. Last year, we launched our podcast "The Winner's Journey," featuring top leaders, CEOs, and Entrepreneurs who share their inspiring journeys. As we look ahead to ArtTour International's future, we steadfastly continue with the same sharp vision and commitment to being the voice for artists worldwide by providing a platform to share their messages. I believe in art as a powerful tool to inspire positive transformation and elevate global consciousness. Art creates happy individuals who contribute to better their communities and make this world a better place. Thank you for helping us promote the arts! Your support inspires us to create, succeed and stay inspired. Here's to you and all art lovers out there! Cheers,
Viviana Puello CEO/Founder ArtTour International Magazine
WINTER 2022
HOWARD HARRIS PAGE 38
PATRICK JOOSTEN PAGE 28 PATRICIA SPOON PAGE 34
Barbara Tyler AHLFIELD Page 31
Janice Alamanou Page 47
MARTY JONES Page 37
BRENDA HARTILL Page 33
JASON BRYANT Page 41
MICHAEL DUMAS Page 56
BRIAN ROCK Page 60
jean jacques porret Page 54
Monika Bendner Page 32
CAROL LEVIN Page 19
John Nieman Page 44
NICK DALE Page 25
CRISTIAN BLEI Page 20
KARI VEASTAD Page 36
PATRICIA SPOON Page 34
DAN MACCORMACK Page 52
Kimberly Berg Page 46
patrick joosten Page 28
DAVID FLESHMAN Page 49
Lize Krüger Page 43
PAUL SMITH Page 30
FILIP FIRLEFIJN Page 50
MARCELLE MANSOUR Page 22
Ric Conn Page 14
FRANS FRENGEN Page 51
marian adcock Page 42
SHIFRA LEVYATHAN Page 26
HOWARD HARRIS Page 38
Maribel Matthews Page 48
WENDY COHEN Page 64
PORTADA MARCELLE MANSOUR PAGE 22 CRISTIAN BLEI PAGE 20 WENDY COHEN PAGE 64
SHIFRA LEVYATHAN PAGE 26
MICHAEL DUMAS PAGE 56
BRIAN ROCK PAGE 60
2022 INDEX
PAGE 70
PAGE 72 ATIM’s Mesmerizing Exhibit at Spectrum Miami PAGE 66
BOOK REVIEWS BY VIVIANA PUELLO RIC CONN - PAGE 14 “Pushing Boundaries And Amplifying Women Empowerment”
ArtTour International Magazine Highlights Top 60 Master Artists in Highly Anticipated Awards Ceremony
JEAN JACQUES PORRET PAGE 54
DAN MACCORMACK PAGE 52
JOHN NIEMAN PAGE 44
EDITOR’S PICK:
ARTISTS TO WATCH IN
2022
As 2021 comes to a close, ATIM is looking to an exciting new year, and the artists we think will own 2022 with their breakout talent. By checking in with our team, collaborators, and curators and analyzing the industry trends, we've selected the artists poised for greatness in the coming year. The following pages showcases our selection of rising artists poised to make a significant impact in 2022!
RIC CONN WWW.RICCONN.COM
14 | WINTER 2022
“No Means No” Oil On Canvas, 40”x30” www.arttourinternational.com
“Liberty” Oil On Canvas, 36”x24”
“When” Oil On Canvas, 36”x24”
“Pushing Boundaries And Amplifying Women Empowerment” By Viviana Puello
R
ic Conn is an internationally known award-winning expressionist artist who is a leading voice in women’s inequality and social issues. Since 2020 his message has been crossing the globe for his visual dialog for female empowerment. He has been featured on Fox, CBS, ABC, Medium, The New York Weekly, ArtTour International Magazine, Toscana Cultura in Italy, among other numerous media outlets. Ric Conn’s innovative use of imagery challenges viewers and activists to think beyond what they can see on the canvas and what the painting means on a deeper level. He maximizes the power of art to break down language and cultural barriers, knowing that inequality issues are evident anywhere in the world. Today, he is among the leading voices in amplifying women’s hurdles through his creative use of mixed media, including acrylics, inks, oil, gouaches, and charcoal. His portraits of the female persona show worthy narratives ranging from everyday issues to society’s most well-buried battles.
www.arttourinternational.com
Conn presents a thought-provoking visual narrative with bold textures, masterful light, and symbolic imagery. He explores the opposition between reality and perception. His fascination and motivation are amped by realities that appear invisible in our everyday lives, cutting into the core of his subjects’ hearts and exposing hidden emotions. Layers of female forms are captured in each of his paintings, focusing on the essence of women’s courage and beauty. How has your connection to your art changed in the last year? “With each painting, I am more committed to the series. These are important issues, and I want to do my best in each painting to get the point across and hopefully inspire, so with every painting, I am more committed to the series.” What inspires you most right now? “My desire to do a good job with the work and say what needs to be said about each subject. My work inspires me. After I finish a painting, I feel good that I told the message, which inspires me to keep going with the series.” Cont. next page
WINTER 2022 | 15
16 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com “Don’t Talk To Me Like That” Oil On Canvas, 40”x30”
“Her Body - Her Choice” Oil On Canvas, 36”x24”
What styles are you exploring at this point in your career? “I am an expressionist painter, so I am not exploring any other style right now. I feel that expressionism is where I am supposed to be.” What impact has nature had on your creative process? “I have grown up wandering the woods; that’s where I get centered. “Standing Tall” Oil On Canvas, 36”x24”
“No More Eggshells” Oil On Canvas, 36”x24”
Walking in the woods studying the animals I find calms me and helps me think about my work. So between my figurative paintings, I do wildlife paintings, and I go birdwatching; they refresh me, and then I go back to the easel.” Ric Conn’s artworks are endowed with shadows, light, contrast, and depths. He uses these aspects to portray his Cont. next page “What Makes You Think That Is Ok” Oil On Canvas, 36”x24”
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 17
“Nobody’s Business But Her Own” Oil On Canvas, 24”x18”
ideas and achieve different layers of creativity. He can tap into various views and expressions of sexuality, with a welcoming invitation to eliminate stereotypes on what a “woman” must embody to be accepted by society. As a male artist, Ric Conn is representing the voices of women
18 | WINTER 2022
from his unique perspective. Through his paintings, the artist leads people to a new generation with mutual respect for all human beings from various walks of life. With a lengthy career and a well-deserved line of awards, Conn makes his mark in the community.
www.arttourinternational.com
CAROL LEVIN WWW.LEVINPHOTOGRAPHICART.COM
“A Signed Admission For 3” Digital Art/Photography, 38”x22”
O
riginally from New York, New York, Carol Levin's connection with photography began in high school with the first photography class assignment; to construct a Box Camera and then take a photograph. "To be an artist was always my dream from the age of seven, but to be a cartoonist. Other paths lead me instead to becoming a
www.arttourinternational.com “Butterfly Girl” Digital Art/Photography, 28”x34”
graphic designer. I worked in the Advertising field for over 25 years as a Designer, Art Director, Creative Director, and then my Design Studio. Through photographing various single images, my goal is to capture and recreate these images by fusing them graphically and presenting them in a new light. The inspiration and challenge always are to observe and photograph objects, people and places constantly, to reconstruct them and to create a unique piece of art for others to enjoy."
WINTER 2022 | 19 “Speed Race” Digital Art/Photography, 36”x36”
CRISTIAN BLEI WWW.CRISTIANBLEI.COM
‘‘Prophetic Dream’’ Oil On Canvas, 25.5’’x31.4’’
20 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
‘‘Believe In Magic’’ Oil On Canvas, 33.4’’x39.3’’
C
ristian Blei is a Romanian contemporary visual artist, b. in 1974 in Bucharest, from a family of visual artists. He started drawing and painting at a very young age, fascinated by the power of colors and shapes like a magical thing. Having come from a family of visual artists, the plastic language became very familiar to him from an early age, later unambiguously determining his path to the artistic field. The years of apprenticeship in his father's studio had a strong imprint on him before he developed his own vision and style. As a technique, he mainly uses oil paint in successive layers, using any pleasant accident of colors on the canvas, integrating it as part of the play of shapes. "I consider myself a visual explorer of the mystery of life, of the mystery of being. Developing my polysemantic nonfigurative language, my paintings focus on the perspective of the vision of a mystical, timeless, and metamorphose space in which emotion and dream meet."
‘‘Astral Sanctuary’’ Oil On Canvas, 19.6’’x39.3’’
‘‘The Hierophant’’ Oil On Canvas, 15.7’’x19.6’’
‘‘The Pearl’’ Oil On Canvas, 19.6’’x15.7’’
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 21
MARCELLE MANSOUR WWW.MARCELLEMANSOUR.COM.AU
“Brilliant Woman Faces”, Combined Traditional & Digital Painting, 19.7”x27.5”
"W
ith an intuitive, multidisciplinary approach to art, my work is based on an exploratory discovery process, as I choose whether it is traditional or digital, or to combine both. I explore my creativity as an artist vis-à-vis traditional and new media art, discovering quality using new technologies within contemporary culture. Culture is the soul of art, as much as art is the soul of the culture. My art is a mirror reflecting my soul and everything related to myself, my thoughts, passions, feelings, identity, and values. It depicts my experiences, memories, and connection to the world as a universal Western-Eastern woman whose goal is to empower women to aspire for positive social change. I show versatility in my work that embraces various styles in traditional, digital and light mediums that balance traditional insight with the contemporary formulation. I began art from early childhood, developed a passion for portraits and figurative art, and painted prominent people’s portraits from real life. I highlight the theme of human experiences in a phenomenological manner which reflects on universal challenges facing humanity in the world. I reflect on human perception, conscience, consciousness, and unconsciousness to see the inward significance of my art with a
22 | WINTER 2022
“Like Lotus and Bamboo Resilient Lucid Dreamer”, Digital Painting, 19.7”x27.5”
purpose to find hope towards advancing humanity and reshaping reality. Through my art, I explore the world of knowledge, wisdom, optimism, and its beautiful creation, portrayal, and depiction. To me, that is the role of art at this strange time, to make us think and hope, to feel and wonder, to smile with no fear, to imagine and dream, to endure and heal, to reveal the truth, and to explore the invisible."
www.arttourinternational.com
“Healing”, Light Photography, 15.7”x11.8”
“Exploring the Joy of Conscience” Digital Painting, 31.5”x23.6”
“Hope for Peace” Digital Painting, 31.5”x23.6”
“The Gaze” Digital Painting, 31.5”x23.6”
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 23
MARCELLE MANSOUR TIMELINE Top Student Prize in Gaza, Palestine 1961 presented by the Governor-General, 1965 Awarded the Top Art Student in the Youssef Abdullah al-Agroudi. Official Examination in Gaza District by the Department of Education. Marcelle Mansour Won the Bicentenary 1988 Literary Prize Competition in the An-Nahar Australian Arabic Newspaper. 1993 Awarded 2nd Prize, Sydney International Women's Day Collective Poster Design Awarded the "Role Model" 1996 1996 Competition. acknowledgment by Universal Women for the ethnic communities on the cultural 1997 Awarded Charbel Baini’s Award & Medal aspects. for excelling in Visual Arts. Awarded Arab Women Creative Awards 1999 by the Australian Arabic Communities 2003 Honored by the General Union Council, now the Australian Arab Council. Palestinian Workers as one of the three Accomplished a Master of Studio Arts 2012 (MSA), The University of Sydney.
Australian Palestinian Innovators, ElTelegraph Australian Arabic newspaper.
2014 April - Awarded the Australian Palestinian Community’s Shield, for her solo Light Art Exhibition “Threshold”, Bankstown April - Awarded the Ambassador for Peace 2015 Arts Centre. by the UBF for Marcelle Mansour’s “Threshold’’ Light Art Exhibition as part Awarded a Certificate of Appreciation of the 2015 UNESCO International Year for the MFA University Graduation, of Light, Australia. by H.E. Ambassador of the State of Palestine Izzat Abdulhadi. June - Award of The Festival of Al Bayayti’s Medal & Certificate of Appreciation for May - Accomplished a Master of Fine Marcelle Mansour’s poetry. Arts (MFA), The University of Sydney. July - “Exposure Photography Award” December - Awarded by Sts Michael inclusion at The Louvre Museum, Paris. and Gabriel Church a Shield, at Mary Mackillop Museum. August - Nomination for a 2015 Pride of Australia Medal, and nomination for a 2016 Australian of the Year Award. 2016 March - ‘‘Arts and Creativity Award”, by the Australian Arabic Cultural Centre/Peter Indari Forum, on the International Woman’s Day. Awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2017 2017 Queen’s Birthday Honors, by H.E. the Honorable Awarded the ‘‘Thank You” Token by Arab Council Australia. David Hurley AD DSC Governor of NSW, Australia. December - Awarded the Presidential Award from H.E. President of the State of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas, delivered by H.E. Ambassador of the State of Palestine Izzat Abdulhadi.
2021 January - “Honorable Mention” Award in the J. Mane Gallery All Woman online Art Exhibition.
Awarded the ATIM’s Top 60 Masters by ArtTour International Magazine.
24 | WINTER 2022
2022
April - “Honorable Mention” Award in the J. Mane Gallery Snapshot online Art Exhibition. October - Artwork “The Gaze” was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Circle Foundation for the Arts (CFA).
www.arttourinternational.com
NICK DALE
WWW.NICKDALEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
“Eddie the Penguin” Framed Photographic Print on Paper, 53”x38"
world, and I want to share the excitement and joy of being there. I recognize the threat to certain species posed by poachers and diminishing habitats, and I hope that my images will give people more of an appreciation for wildlife, but what they choose to do with that is up to them.
“Dustbuster” Framed Photographic Print on Paper, 53”x38"
I started out taking 'portraits' of animals. That was all very well, and a lion might look beautiful sitting on the African savannah at sunset, but there isn't much energy in that sort of picture. So what I try to do now is focus on 'action shots.' Of course, I still take portraits - and sometimes I don't have a choice! - but my ideal image is much more likely to be a cheetah chasing down a Thomson's gazelle than a bird sitting on a branch!"
"I
have a passion for wildlife, and I want to celebrate all its facets in my photography, including power, beauty, cuteness, and humor. These are the qualities I want to share with people. I'm not a conservationist, so I don't take pictures of endangered animals to put on a poster for Greenpeace or Friends of the Earth. Instead, I take them because I love close encounters with the natural “Bear Gills” Framed Photographic Print on Paper, 53”x38"
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 25
SHIFRA
LEVYATHAN WWW.SHIFRALEV.COM
“The Photographer” Fine Art Photography
"I
photograph everything around me, be it nature, cityscape, and people. I am an Urban photographer. I love the city, its people, and its architecture. The high-rise buildings with glass and chrome create wonderful distorted reflections, which l find fascinating. People intrigue me with their colorful personalities and actions. The city has everything for me – architecture, people, and
even nature. When l stroll in the streets with my camera anywhere in the world, l try to capture moments and episodes that will never come back. When l discovered the digital camera and the software, l became addicted to this medium and its vast possibilities. Many times, the photograph for me is like the canvas for a painter: I add or subtract from the photograph and create what I see in my mind's eye.
26 | WINTER 2022
“Refletion” Fine Art Photography
www.arttourinternational.com
“Mirrors” Fine Art Photography
“The Giant” Fine Art Photography
“The Palace” Fine Art Photography
My photographs reflect my moods and life around me, private or general. Even though it is difficult today to create something new, every artist has something unique only to him. I hope that my art, or at least my eye, is unique only to myself". “Lemons Homage to Magritte” Fine Art Photography
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 27
PATRICK JOOSTEN WWW.PATRICK-JOOSTEN.COM
‘‘L’essence de la couleur et de l’imaginaire - The essence of color and imagination’’
French painter, born in Paris, France. ATIM'S Top 60 Masters December 2021 Power of Creativity Art prize - August 2021 Collector's Vision International Art Award - May 2021
Merit Prize Award Art show International 2021 Winner Award ‘‘Artist of the Future’’ Contemporary Art Curator 14/11/2020
"I
Picasso, Klimt, Basquiat, Richter, Rothko, Modigliani, Monet, Van Gogh.
Artistic representation: Gallery Crillon Tokyo Influences:
"Patrick Joosten's flowing gestures are full of emotional dedication. His artworks convince predominantly with the pathos of their colors. With his acrylic paintings, Joosten takes observers to a new reality, created by his wide brush stroke, and his way of scraping one color across the next to create unique transitions.
am predominantly a self-taught artist, and i am not following any particular artistic movement. Instead, I paint, draw for the pleasure of creation, hoping to share moments of emotion with those who appreciate modern art. I offer energetic, powerful abstract works, often inspired by nature, with the constant search to bring emotions and pleasure. "
“Bodies” 2019, Acrylic on Canvas, 59”x39”
28 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
“Red Sea Underwater” 2018, Acrylic on Canvas, 59”x39”
“Colors” 2019, Acrylic on Canvas, 45”x29.5” “Allegro” 2021, Acrylic on Canvas, 45”x29.5”
The traces of his tools bear witness to his process-oriented way of working. The texture of colored spaces is a special focus in his work. The resulting stretches of painting become screens of projection for the observer's thoughts, emotions and dreams. Abstraction seems to have grown a soul. At times, a deep Sky blue starts a conversation with bright red structures, or an immaterial lemon-yellow run into a figure sporting a gray design."-A. Akoun.
“Dreams” 2021, Acrylic on Canvas, 59”x39”
www.arttourinternational.com
“Tritium” 2018, Acrylic on Canvas, 39”x39”
WINTER 2022 | 29
PAUL SMITH WWW.PAULSMITHARTIST.NET
“Jack Dempsey v Jess Willard” Gouache, 15.7”x25”
P
aul Smith is widely regarded as one of the most popular British artists specializing in painting boxing and sporting action scenes. As a result, Paul’s boxing art is highly sought after and commissioned worldwide.
Paul’s artistic flair began studying at Sutton College of Art and Design for a Diploma in Art and Graphic Design and then studying at the University of Central England for a degree in Engineering
“Muhammad Ali v Joe Frazier (Fight of the Century)” Gouache, 15.7”x25”
30 | WINTER 2022
Product Design and a Master of Arts MA. Paul brings a distinctive artistic style, using Gouache as his chosen medium. He captures in his paintings the boxer’s movement, raw intensity, and atmosphere of the fight. His subtle brushstrokes and lightly layering strive to bring attention to detail, realism, and an accurate depiction. His works capture the intensity and energy of both boxers and the atmospheric representation of the boxing arena and crowds surrounding the ring.
“Tyson Fury v Deontay Wilder Rematch” Gouache, 15.7”x25”
www.arttourinternational.com
BARBARA TYLER AHLFIELD WWW.BARBARATYLERAHLFIELD.COM
“Indulging Fashion Expressions”
Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, and Hutzler's. Her most recent series of fashion illustrations feature in the Summer 2021 product line of her brand Sisumoi, a company she established with her daughter Alexandra Ahlfield. Sisumoi is an online retailer of inspirational accessories designed to uplift and bring beauty with lifestyle products.
By Viviana Puello
I
nfluenced by a successful career in the fashion industry, American artist Barbara Tyler Ahlfield creates dramatic, emotionally charged portraits that are whimsical and
refined. Her works present a world of glamour in a style that combines her love for fashion and painting, blending classical, realistic figurative techniques with a modern fashion-inspired impressionist influence.
Barbara Tyler Ahlfield has received several honors, including the NORMA award for lingerie advertising and cosmetic advertising, the Seklemian award for reflective color advertising, and the Federated Dept. Store advertising award. In 2014 she was named one of the top 50 new international artists by Art Business News magazine 2014. In 2019 Ahlfield “Whisper #1” Oil and Silver Gesso on Canvas, 14”x11” was featured as "Artist Of The Year" in ArtTour International Magazine, and she has received the ATIM Top 60 Masters Award.
Ahlfield explores colors, textures and captures the tactile qualities of velvet, the rich luster of satin, the feel of taffeta, and the nostalgic, crispy texture of vintage lace, taking the viewer on an indulging journey of romantic fantasy.
She has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Weekly, Daily Herald, and U.S. News, among many other media outlets.
During Ahfltield's thriving career as a Fashion Illustrator, she worked for some top U.S. department stores, including
“I am a representational portrait artist. I specialize in conveying elegance and idealism. My intention is to evoke calm and serenity in the viewer.” - Barbara Tyler Ahlfield
“Whisper #2” Oil and Silver Gesso on Canvas, 14”x11” “Whisper #3” Oil and Silver Gesso on Canvas, 14”x11”
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 31
MONIKA BENDNER WWW.MONIKABENDNER.COM
T
hrough a digital overlay and collage process, award-winning master artist Monika Bendner creates multilayered, surrealistic experiences through a combination of photographic prints and mixed media. Her compositions, printed on various materials, create a narrative that evokes emotions and multiple responses from her viewers. Monika Bendner's work has transformed with a background in photographic design as she's entered different phases of her growth and development as an artist over her active career. Her use of abstract lines and shapes conveys movement in their dimensionality, and her bold, rich, textured application of color emanates meaning through their saturation. Viscerally recognizable through their intensity and layers, Bendner's work is diverse and unconventional due to her various materials, methods, and techniques. She creates her work using various alternating canvas combinations, metallic photo printing, acrylic, glass, photography, and found objects. Her metallic photographic prints are layered and expressed outside of time and space. She brings hyper-real kaleidoscope imagery behind a thick acrylic/glass amalgamation. With the common motive of a figurative hand layered in most of her collections, she leaves her work open for interpretation.
‘‘First Mannequin Shows Haute Couture’’ Acrylglas Metallic ultraHD, 23.6’’x35.4’’
32 | WINTER 2022
‘‘Is Put On Make Up’’ Acrylglas Metallic ultraHD, 23.6’’x35.4’’
‘‘The Control Supervision’’ Acrylglas Metallic ultraHD, 23.6’’x35.4’’
www.arttourinternational.com
“Golden Symphony I” Cold Waxed Watercolor on Collagraph Embossing Framed, 33”x38”
BRENDA HARTILL
WWW.BRENDAHARTILL.COM
B
orn in London, Brenda Hartill emigrated to New Zealand at 14, returning with a scholarship to the Theatre design dept, Central School of Art, London in the 1960s, eventually
taking up Printmaking. She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers (RE). She has exhibited in London (Bankside and Curwen galleries), UK country and worldwide. Hartill’s work is experimental, abstract, and embossed. Collagraphy, painting, etching, watercolor, collage, and encaustic works. Her main love is abstracting the essence of the landscape in richly colored textured works. She developed a method of inking using primary colors on different plate levels, thus producing a shimmer of color. Her ongoing fascination is with erosion, weather patterns, natural textures, growth formations, and universal organic forms.
“Blue Symphony I” Cold Waxed Watercolor on Collagraph Embossing Framed, 33”x38”
“Eye in the Sky III” Mixed Media with Silver Leaf, 23"x23"
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 33
PATRICIA SPOON WWW.MJRGALLERY.COM/PATRICIA-SPOON
“Colors 5” Oil on Canvas,18”x24”
34 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
“Elemental” Oil on Canvas, 18”x24”
“Colors” Oil on Canvas, 18”x24”
“I
express my creative vision, using influences from nature, colors inspire me to create, and make art. Nature is a constant inspiration to my art.” “Cubed 2” Oil on Canvas, 18”x24”
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 35 “Colors 2” Oil on Canvas,11”x14”
“Energies” 2020, Acrylic on Canvas, 24”x31”
KARI VEASTAD love to play with colors. My colors and hands take me on a joyous and unfamiliar journey through inner and outer landscapes. I am constantly surprised by what comes on the canvas as different
movements. The painting often draws attention to the inner wealth of man. I intend to inspire you to open up and pay attention to your inner landscape for reflection and movement. My inspiration is the beauty in the surroundings and my passion for the interaction between body, soul, and spirit".
“Human Love” 2020, Acrylic on Canvas, 24”x24”
“Loved Creation” 2020, Acrylic on Canvas, 16”x16”
WWW.KARIVEASTAD.COM
“I
36 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
MARTY JONES WWW.MJARTS.COM
“Monster Hunter Entry” Digital Art
“I
llustration, at its best, should reflect the nature and character of the illustrator and present the story, idea, or message that the author attempts to convey. Consequently, my work tends toward encouragement, or presentation of life as I would like it to be, and perhaps as I feel it was intended to be, rather than a presentation of either a moral or philosophical message. I like to "capture images," ones that move me with their character or beauty.
greatest meanings for all of us. In general, if there is a "message" to be found in my work, it is primarily because that message is already present in the viewer, and I have had the experience of presenting it to the viewer.”
I believe that the vast majority of people neglect to enjoy and experience the small moments of life, which often contain the
“Woman With The Dragon Tattoo” Digital Art
www.arttourinternational.com
“Canticle Of The Sea” Digital Art
WINTER 2022 | 37
HOWARD HARRIS WWW.HHARRISPHOTO.COM
“Heart” Sublimation Print on Aluminum, 12”x10”
"V
isual reality is an ever-shifting, highly individualized experience. In any given moment, what we see reflects both our inner state and a synthesis of outer qualities— light, color, movement, space. My exploration in Techspressionism and dimensional photographic art represents an attempt to recreate the perceptual experience, with its dynamic nature and hidden complexities. In my patented process I use photographic constructions, a single,
38 | WINTER 2022
often abstracted image is layered over itself on clear acrylic surfaces and superimposed on a subtle grid. The resulting visual phenomenon infuses the image with a sense of dimensionality and fluidity affected by such changes as the angle of viewing and light. Yet perceptual mechanics are only part of the equation. Equally essential are universal principles of design that produce qualities we perceive as beauty. This is my aim: to skillfully combine technology and aesthetics in a way that expands the viewer’s experience of photographic art."
www.arttourinternational.com
“Albers Unleashed” Sublimation Print on Aluminum, 36”x30”
www.arttourinternational.com
2022 | 39 “Miros Dream” Sublimation PrintWINTER on Aluminum, 36”x30”
“Trippin” Sublimation Print on Aluminum, 30”x36”
40 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
JASON BRYANT
WWW.BRYANTPAINTINGS.COM
"A
photo, a fingerprint, a signature, and DNA are all methods we use to identify a person, but they are means to match a name or face to an individual, not to describe who they are or their identity. For as long as I've used portraiture as the main focus of my paintings, it's not the identity or
“Loves Labor Lost” 2015, Oil on Canvas, 30"x24"x3"
recognizable face I use to describe my portraits but more of a blueprint of how I approach portraiture. Many levels go into what makes a person's portrait. It's a fabric of many layers intertwined with a person's favorite foods, music, and movies. I use all of these concepts in portraits. Stemming from my lifelong love of the cinema, many subjects of my paintings are actors and actresses. However, I am not commenting on the celebrity or star system, but I use the celebrity as a hook to bring the viewer in. I don't focus on the face to describe or examine a portrait. Instead, by cropping or hiding certain features, I add more mystery to the portrait, bringing us to question who we are and what's beneath the surface.
comment on identity and create portraits that mean more than the individual being painted. With most of my paintings, the figure is the focal point, but my work explores the identity of others, not the subject. There is much to learn from a portrait, which goes well beyond the face".
In my recent series, I've incorporated my love of skateboarding to explore themes of portraiture. With vibrant, iconic skateboard graphics coming from behind or bursting through the elegant black and white images of various actors and actresses, I've merged two of the most important parts of my life: skateboarding and art. I use the traditional format of the portrait to simultaneously “This is the Business We Have Chosen” Oil on Skateboard, 31”x8”x2”
www.arttourinternational.com
“For your Viewing Pleasure” Oil on Canvas Paper, 24”x20”x2”
WINTER 2022 | 41
MARIAN S. ADCOCK WWW.MARIANSART.COM
By Yadira Roman
A
ward-winning botanical fine artist Marian S. Adcock is widely known for her realistic and mystic floral, animal and landscape artistry, deeply rooted in wild nature. This portraitist from Minnesota has impressed her audience with a line of her gleaming artworks, each replicating the ethos of the everbeautiful and ethereal plant life in their most ancient originality and intricate fleeting structures. Brimming with reflective depictions of her subjects, her unique strokes are curated from a palette of wax and oil-based color pencils in a strikingly lyrical and luminescent combination. And a premium grade vellum surface paper with white or situ backgrounds.
“Orchids” Wax and Oil-Based Colored Pencil, 14”x17”
Exhibiting rich attention to detail and great depth, Adcock delivers realistic movement in her drawings, resulting in fluid and loudly charismatic floral depictions. A self-taught artist, Adcock has started honing her craftsmanship after having retired. Each of her creations gives vows for rich scientific detail and accuracy. Marian S. Adcock continues to look for new skills in her niche with an array of new techniques, drawing her inspiration from the gardens of her studio and the entire Upper Midwest. Her works are widely available on display all across the U.S.
42 | WINTER 2022
“Day Lilies” Wax and Oil-Based Colored Pencil, 14”x17”
www.arttourinternational.com
LIZE KRÜGER WWW.LIZEKRUGERFINEART.COM
“M
y work focuses primarily on social and political injustices, as well as mental health issues.Throughout history, artists continued to be the conscience of governments. I feel responsible for addressing this, no matter if the message reaches them or not. I find it impossible to stand in apathy when I witness any atrocities.
I also try to create awareness about the long-term effect of injustice, war, and abuse on humanity and, more specifically, children. The given outcome can manifest as mental health issues and suicide. I am on a mission to rid it of all established stigma. For sufferers, more pain is being created by the public’s lack of compassion and understanding. We need to talk about these things to achieve any healing”.
“A Time For Introspection” Interdisciplinary Medium, 23.2”x33.5”
“In the Eye of the Beholder” Interdisciplinary Medium, 23.2”x33.5”
www.arttourinternational.com
“Reality Check” Interdisciplinary Medium, 23.2”x33.5”
WINTER 2022 | 43
JOHN NIEMAN WWW.JOHNNIEMAN.COM
“If the Shoe Fits” Installation
A
fter several decades as an international creative director for Ad Agencies, John Nieman decided to reinvent his life and devote it to art. His first forays were pastels and watercolor paintings.
He was quickly invited to many shows in the U.S., the U.K., Japan, Canada, Paris, Italy, Ireland, Thailand –including more than a dozen solo art shows. Lately, he has progressed to more elaborate installations. He likes to create art that has an immediate impact and a residual mental tickle—either through words or subject matter.
“An Apple a Day” Watercolor, 36”x17”
44 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
“Barbed Balloons” Watercolor
“You Are Never Too Old” 2016, Watercolor, 24”x14”
“Making Whoopie” Watercolor, 32”x22”
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 45
KIMBERLY BERG WWW.ISISRISING.NET
"I
believe that artists have an important role to play in changing the patriarchal world we live in. It is becoming increasingly clear that the present patriarchal military, social, political, religious, and economic institutions we live under are no longer workable or sustainable. This is especially true for women who have lived under a patriarchal system created and governed by men for the last 5000 years. In addition, this period also marks the beginning of another important event—the dawn of written language and recorded history in 3100 BC. The confluence of these two events has affected human history to the present time. As a male pro-feminist artist, I believe we are living at a significant turning point in human history. A monumental change is happening regarding the status of women in Western and other societies worldwide. After millenniums of nearly universal patriarchal subjugation, many women now have the chance to visualize themselves in totally new ways and reclaim their inherent birthright. The artist can play an important role in furthering this historical transformation. This is because the artist has the unique ability to create a visual image that can inspire viewers to reinvent themselves.
“Genesis 1” Pastel, 19”x26”
To achieve such a balance, my art tries to restore that part of the pre-historic Mother Goddess culture that honored women for their sacred, life-giving, life-affirming powers: Powers associated with the moon and wild animals; qualities associated with art and aesthetics, dance and music, singing, chanting and ecstatic states of being. As an artist, I wish to create a visual experience that lays the groundwork for a change in attitude—a change that will allow women to feel confident that they have the ability, strength, and resources to take control of their life. Ultimately, this can help us all become more whole and more human".
“Creatrix” Pastel, 26”x19”
46 | WINTER 2022
“Birthing Moon” Pastel, 19”x26”
www.arttourinternational.com
JANICE ALAMANOU WWW.COASTALPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
C
ombining her photographic virtuosity with her deep-rooted poetic vision and innate sensitivity, British fine art photographer Janice Alamanou adds a rhapsodic dimension to the art of capturing photographs, creating lyrical epiphanies that enhance the viewer's perceptual experiences. Alamanou captures her subjects in a symbolic, ethereal, and otherworldly fashion through her creative manipulation of light focused on reflecting a light that shines from within. "Our oceans cover more than 70% of our world and provide essential elements to our ecosystem and creation and sustaining of life. With other problems throughout the world, we need now, more than ever, to protect and act on saving what we need for our future. Through my art, I try to make people aware, act, and care. My artworks are amalgamations of photography, every image captured by myself and collaged together to create a perception. These are the 'Soul Elements' Collection. It is essential to dispose of waste accordingly. I have been looking at the small numbers in the triangle, usually on the bottom of most plastics (numbered 1-7), not easily seen. Unfortunately - 1 & 2 can go in the recycling, and a quick method is that if it crunches when you squeeze it, it can be recycled. - I wish everyone a promising future, and a little love and caring can go a long way for everyone."
“Two Kingdoms” Photography, 31.5’’x20.98’’
www.arttourinternational.com
‘‘Can You See Me’’ Photography, 23.6’’x23.6’’
“Power to Change” Photography with Precious Metals, 31.5’’x20.98’’
WINTER 2022 | 47
MARIBEL MATTHEWS WWW.MARIBELMATTHEWS.COM
M
aria Isabel Matthews explores with her art a wide range of techniques and styles. Employing mixed media with oil and acrylics, she layers each color with seamless transitions, resembling the natural environment.
She captures the romanticism encompassing abstraction to impressionism and landscapes to urban views through soft textures and warm color palettes. Sharp details add depth to her figurative works, revealing emotion and personality through each gaze and movement in her subjects. Matthews's brushstrokes add a smooth rhythm and vitality to the painting. It is as if they give us a glimpse into her mind and the movement of her thoughts and feelings. Vivid monochromatic images focus on small and individual marks in the context of vastness. Her work balances traditional and representational art; and romanticizes the chosen settings, people, and culture. Her ability to connect with natural beauty has driven her efforts to speak about environmental issues.
“Sunset” Oil on Canvas
“Life is a Journey” Oil on Canvas, 30’’x40’’
Thematically, Matthews champions environmental conservation and highlights the detrimental effects of global warming. Her abstract works depict the impending danger facing the earth, highlighting the forest fires, hurricanes, and droughts; while using her subjects as a metaphorical symbol of the strength and natural will possessed by such wonders. She has been a prominent figure in Gibraltar's local art scene for many years, driven by a passion for painting and inspired by the beauty of nature, the magnificent architecture it encompasses, and humanity's versatility.
48 | WINTER 2022
“Reflections” Oil on Canvas, 38’’x54’’
"Perhaps one day it will dawn on mankind that squandering our resources is not the answer and instead work in harmony with nature appreciating the beauty and grandeur of our world by caring for it as it should."
www.arttourinternational.com
DAVID FLESHMAN WWW.DFORIGINALDESIGNSLLC.COM
“A New Visual Language” By Viviana Puello
D
avid Fleshman is a multi-disciplinary artist who creates colorful abstract and figurative works employing painting and digital design. His works are inspired by master artists like Paul Cezanne and Wayne Thiebaudmaster and graphic designer Alan Fletcher. Fleshman successfully merges traditional and technical practices to develop a unique, cohesive style. He prefers the use of oils on canvas and digital photography for his two-dimensional works and aluminum casting and mixed media for his sculptures. His paintings explore the notion of connection and his relationship with his surroundings. Animals, landscapes, cityscapes, and inanimate objects take center stage in his lively canvases showcasing a realistic style like "Creamer & Bottles" and "Cakes."
“Spinning Flower” Digital Art
When working on digital media, he uses a DSLR Canon camera to capture his images and then manipulates the photographs until obtaining the desired result to produce mesmerizing digital imagery. His digital paintings showcase an abstract style that explores the notion of energy and light, like in "A Pathway of Lights."
“Golden Irish Claddagh” Digital Art
His prolific talent also excels with his creative sculptures, where he focuses on showcasing animals like in "Owl Sitting on Metal Box" and "Alligator on Wooden Base."
“Hallucinating Orchid 3” Digital Art
www.arttourinternational.com
Committed to giving his best, David Fleshman skillfully translates complex emotions into a vibrant, dynamic, visual language. As his own emotions get entrenched in his creative process, his style develops and continues offering new views of the world we see. " I am a graphic designer and an artist; I put in my best-detailed craftsmanship and the time needed to complete each project." David Fleshman dalmations2@gmail.com www.behance.net/dfleshman/ www.linkedin.com/in/dfleshman/ dribbble.com/dfleshman/ github.com/dfleshman www.pinterest.com/dfleshman1/ www.facebook.com/dfleshman2/ twitter.com/dfleshman2 www.instagram.com/dfleshman1/ 702-287-0370
WINTER 2022 | 49
FILIP FIRLEFIJN WWW.FIRLEFIJN.COM
“Charcoal Schnabel” Acrylic on Canvas, 225”x80”
F
ilip Firlefijn's background is Belgian. He grew up in its comic book culture, to which his art still refers. Yet, he also connects that background to the international art scene and its history. Like Warhol, he has chosen his subject to be the public domain, which has become
more widespread in recent years through the internet. We all live in this strange knowledge bubble that is not that much constrained anymore to our streets, schools, or jobs. Everybody is hungry for more. A lot of people hunger for a bigger life, even. His artwork's style, humor, and intelligence keep the relativity of that hunger alive and the hunger itself sane. There is also hunger in his art towards craftsmanship,
the talent of drawing, and the more distant history of art. His large-scale magenta paintings on a vermillion background seem like sketches for more realistic grandiose portrait paintings. He is by that means also awakening a more serious hunger through the viewer's imagination and strengthening their hunger towards depth and meaning, and emphasizing the depth which pop culture itself or any new culture can uphold.
“Muhammad Ali” Acrylic on Canvas, 120”x75”
50 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
FRANS FRENGEN WWW.ALLART-FRENGEN.BE
Creating Beauty from Ashes By Tiarra Tompkins
E
ach of us will face tragedy in our lives. The pain, recovery, and rebirth that come from adversity are as unique as our fingerprints. To describe the gamut of experiences and feelings that each one contains can be overwhelming, and yet, there is also tremendous beauty that comes from these experiences. Each opportunity and lesson is a chance to take what they taught us and use it to serve others. From racial division to global warming, we are bombarded daily with loss, devastation, and division. How can humanity rise like the phoenix from these proverbial ashes? Master Fumagine artist Frans Frengen paints with flame through artistic creation. They are bringing the right ashes into the beauty of his work. Creating art with ashes and soot, Frengen paints with a flame, creating paintings and sculptures of soot and installing smoke, allowing us to see that beauty, hope, and restoration come from the ashes. For a world suffering from rampant wildfires, systemic racism, and gender inequality, Frengen brings vision and hope with his work. Inspired by this technique of using real fire, ashes, and soot, real conversations around environmental conservation have been ignited, bringing into view so much that our world is suffering a loss.
“Rebuilt Space, In Broken Red And Blue” Fumagine/Acrylic/Movable Dots/Movable Square, 10.8”x10.8”
It may still be decades before our world comes together in peace to face the obstacles facing our species and our planet. When we are striving for unity, artists like Frans Frengen are opening doors to critical conversations. Inspiring people from all over the globe to ask more questions about challenging topics. Questions like, what can we do to make a difference? To bring awareness to global problems, share support for environmental conservation, and share a vision of the beauty that truly comes from ashes.
“To Eternity” Fumagine/Acrylic/Movable Dots/Movable Square, 10.8”x10.8”
Original from Belgium, Frans Frengen is one of the most genuine contemporary artists to emerge on the scene, developing a work process as intriguing as his artwork. Feng studied painting and drawing under prominent artists before acquiring the signature “Imagine” technique that forms the basis for much of his work. Despite the bold, thick lines, smudgy appearance, and simple nature of Frengen’s drawings and paintings, they are still highly detailed and reveal the artist’s deep level of skill and technique.
www.arttourinternational.com
“Rebuilt Space, Black And White With Blobs Of Paint” Fumagine/Acrylic/Movable Dots/Movable Square,10.5”x10.5”
WINTER 2022 | 51
DAN McCORMACK WWW.DANMCCORMACK.NET
“Lenoir” Photography
52 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
"I
n this project, I am working with a cell phone camera to create 3x3 GRID images of Lenoir nude in the studio. I began to make multiple images in a grid in 1967 while beginning my MFA in Photography Thesis at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. I came back to grids in 1992 when I combined 24 images with the Nimslo Camera and later in a Grid with the Action Tracker Camera in 1999.
“Blue-Shirt Lenoir” CellPhone Camera 3x3 Grid Archival Pigmnet Print, 20”x16”
“Fingers Breasts 3 - Lenoir” CellPhone Camera 3x3 Grid Archival Pigmnet Print, 20”x16”
“Eyes Hands Breasts 5 - Lenoir” CellPhone Camera 3x3 Grid Archival Pigmnet Print, 20”x16”
I have been photographing the nude for over 50 years, exploring different cameras, processes, and techniques. Since I worked with the nude, I have been interested in making an image that says something, not just a pretty image. I have been interested in the multiple-image and how time is a part of the dynamic of these images.
“Fingers Breasts 2 - Lenoir” CellPhone Camera 3x3 Grid Archival Pigmnet Print, 20”x16” www.arttourinternational.com
In this set of images, I am working with this one model, Lenoir, as she is spontaneous in her reactions and emotions in making the images. I find a true connection in working with this model." WINTER 2022 | 53
JEAN JACQUES PORRET WWW.JJPORRET.COM
O
riginally from Switzerland, award-winning artist, sculptor, and engineer Jean-Jacques Porret was exposed to art from the day he was born to a family of art and antique collectors. Surrounded by beautiful antiquities, statues, and artwork every day, the seed of art was planted early, and he began carving wood when he was just six years old. He specialized in creating magnificent works with the lost wax technique of casting Bronze. Bronze primarily interested him "because it is the most demanding material which is responsive and sweet to the touch." After acquiring his engineering degree, Porret came to New York, anxious to learn English and build a life on his terms. There, his career was set into motion, which soon after led him to Chicago. Porret's thirst for knowledge took him to museums all over the world, absorbing all he could and sharing philosophies with the most prominent artist of the time. As an artist, Porret is continuously evolving, and his work and style have changed over the years. From sharper to a softer expression of molten metal. Porret muses, "If my approach seems figurative, I do not aim for a reproduction “#451 Promiscuous” Bronze Sculpture
54 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
of the human form: what interests me is to transmit an abstract feeling or an idea rather than an image of reality. I use recognizable forms to arouse emotion, to give birth to sensations. I consider myself, in fact, an impressionist." This vision drives his work, and each sculpture imbues depth and intensity. Though he initially started his career by working in Bronze, Porret began experimenting with various stones. Dissatisfied, with his sculpture's bases, bought a granite and marble company, to have complete control in his work's creation. Yet this choice also evolved his work, and these various stone elements have become an integral part of his creative process and vision. Many of his signature pieces with their soft angular movements are harmoniously mixed with sharply defined textures captivating thoughtful designs with an immortal richness, boldness, and unsettling beauty. Porret's work is infused with his personality, unsuppressed by traditional rules; his work is original and buried within each piece is the poetry of his work. Creating figures of humanity in the abstract, each form
“#450 Illusion Intime” Bronze Sculpture
www.arttourinternational.com
courageously melting into the next. Emotions created from fragments of granite or marble jutting and piercing through the bronzes bring the concepts of nature and man together, creating a stunningly modernistic and seductive interpretation of the human form. When viewing one of his sculptures, the human form seems to leap out at the viewer. Jean-Jacques describes this movement as "rhythm in space." Porret said of his artistic method and vision, "I work without any preconceived idea… (I) continue instinctively, with one shape leading to the next, until the figure is simply rhythm in space". Jean-Jacques Porret's bronzes can be seen in innumerable collections throughout Europe, Japan, and the United States. He was commissioned to create the bronze sculpture for the American-Swiss Friendship Award. The "Abage Encyclopedia of Bronzes" describes Porret as "an independent thinker, whose bronze sculpture might be described as a naturalistic, modern blend, in which forms are simplified to their essential rhythms and elements."
“#450 Illusion Intime” Bronze Sculpture
WINTER 2022 | 55
“Mid-Day Sun” Oil on Russian Birch, 13.5"x20"
MICHAEL DUMAS
WWW.ARTISTSFORCONSERVATION.ORG 56 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
“Innocence” Oil on Russian Birch, 9"x7"
“T
he impulse to create comes to me in the unadorned living of life from day to day. In the simple act of being, I sense poetic and profound qualities. These often lay concealed within the nature of reality, hidden in plain sight by way of familiarity. And what is more familiar than a sense of the real? Our dreams shape themselves into realistic imagery. Our memories come to us in visual representation. A written story prompts graphic visions in its translation. Even emotion and imagination express themselves through recognizable likeness. I create by observing the feelings these observations prompt and the memories and dreams evoked in often unforeseen ways.
‘‘Lunch Break’’ Oil on Russian birch, 8.5"x12.5"
www.arttourinternational.com
Drawing is the underlying tool that I rely on to flesh out both objects and the meaning they may hold for me. With so many of my subjects that are neither aware of nor care about my intentions, it is a discipline of the instant. Moments of direct observation often give way to memory and are only later enhanced further by way of supplementary reference. Even in the case of human models, a fleeting expression, or series of expressions, leave only incomplete sketches that hopefully will be resurrected more fully from recollection alone. This tension between a face-to-face reality, the difficulties it imposes, and the play of emotions that goes with it form a sort of cohesive thread that runs through sketched beginnings to painted ends. The continuity can be elusive at times, and the real danger is that it may never be regained again once lost. Cont. next page
WINTER 2022 | 57
“Fox Sparrow Study” Graphite on Canvas, 16"x22"
“Faded Blue” Oil on Russian Birch, 9.75"x13.5"
58 | WINTER 2022
“Officer's Boy / 1812” Oil on Russian Birch, 6"x8"
www.arttourinternational.com
Every painting begins with an underlying drawing. It may be quite comprehensive in some areas or barely indicated in others. The question is one of being selective, emphasizing what was of particular interest in the real-life experience it is reflecting. There is a loose association between purely visual stimuli and the emotional impact that lingers long afterward. I tend to work slowly, building layers of thinly applied glazes, and in doing so, the flow of emotion and memory tends to remain uninterrupted from start to finish. If this continuity is disrupted or lost entirely by chance, a struggle ensues to regain it. There is a limit to just how wayward this straying off can be, a line beyond which there is no recovery. When success comes, it is most often measured by the harmonious balance between emotion and visual observation.” “Sparrow's Rest” Oil on Russian Birch, 23"x10.25"
“Meeting Place” Graphite on Arches Watercolour Paper, 16"x20"
www.arttourinternational.com
“Thoughts Take Flight” Oil on Canvas, 16"x20"
“Quiescence” Oil on Russian Birch, 8.5"x10.5"
WINTER 2022 | 59
BRIAN ROCK
M
recognize when the much sought after, blood bathed path to peace and equality is still being traveled. Rock and his work speaks volumes to which side he chooses to poise himself on. You can see clearly, Rock's message to the world to open hearts and minds to the realization of what war looks like, not only when it is happening, but the lasting aftereffects of the atrocities of violence. That understanding seeks to stop this endless path of destruction before the next generation suffers the same consequences that he has.
ost people talk through their past traumas, Rock paints through his. He lets his emotions and memories possess him until the rush is spent, the tension is released, and he can ride the euphoric high of completing that piece. Rock's work pours out from the deep wounds and the war he has experienced firsthand, and each image, which contains just as much power and impact as his others. As a people, we are still working through the emotional and physical evolution of history; we have to
WWW.BRIANROCKART.COM facebook.com/pg/BrianRockArt
How has your connection to your Art changed in the last year? "I find that each year the connection to my Art gets deeper and more personal. I guess, like any good long lasting relationship, honesty and truth are perhaps the two most important aspects. As an artist, you have to be really truthful and honest with yourself, especially to put it all out there for the world to see. The greatest change this last year has been sticking to my mantra of "no art for art's sake." What I mean by that is I made not going to paint or sculpt because I am expected to. Each time I go to my Studio, that is my special place, my confessional as it were. A place where I can truly express myself and enjoy the immunity or forgiveness and peace that I seek Therefore it has to be honest. " What inspires you most right now? "The journey. Looking back over the years and seeing the various stages and styles and mediums that I have used. The friendships and relationships that I have developed with other Artists. The support, understanding and love I have received from ATIM. The changes in me and the growth that I have experienced on a personal and professional level. A better understanding of me. "
“Pastoral” Mixed Media, 18”x24”
60 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
What styles are you exploring at this point in your career? “I have always been interested in the hands on art approach. Art that people can touch. I have some blinded military friends who have inspired me to continue on this path. They could see but lost their site in combat. This way they and anyone for that matter, can physically run their hands over my work and experience it on a different level. This also encourages a new form of partnership between the artist and the observer. I am also beginning to instill some subtle smells in the paintings so that another one of the senses is stimulated. I will continue to work on my varying textures as well. “ Cont. next page
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 61
62 | WINTER 2022
“Jesus”, Recycled Acrylic
www.arttourinternational.com
What impact has nature had on your creative process? "Nature has had a huge influence on my work. From the streets of war torn Belfast where I grew up to hearing birds sing outside my Studio in the mountains of New Mexico is the perfect example. My early work reflects this and my current work reflects this. Nature is creation and from creation comes creativity. We are made from the earth and so begins the connection. I always include sand, ash, dirt etc. in my works in order to reinforce that link. Paintings I am not happy with, I burn and then renew them by adding the remnants to newer works. Nature always reinvents itself. As artists we learn from her. "
You have previously mentioned trauma being an experience you process onto your artwork; how has it impacted your mental health to use Art as an outlet? "Trauma. What do we do with that? We can't change it, it happened. So that leaves us one choice.. to find an outlet so we can divide a plan for life in order to continue our growth. For me that was Art. Going to war changes you. I became angry. I still get angry but instead of punching a wall I throw paint on canvas! I mix with my hands, I physically become attached to my works. The best part is now that very quick expression of anger or sadness is now permanently captured. An inward photograph of the soul in that very moment. As part of the healing process I can now look back and say "wow, that was a bad day!" but then stand tall knowing it is over and I have expressed it. What makes the healing process complete in that instance is that from something bad, something beautiful and meaningful was created. That is expressionism. That's Art."
www.arttourinternational.com
“Journey”, Mixed Media
WINTER 2022 | 63
WENDY COHEN WWW.WENDYCOHEN.NET.AU
“Colour Forms Hanging On A Mass Of Lines” Acrylic, Paper, Markers On Wood Panel Board, 12”x12”
A
ustralian artist, Wendy Cohen, creates vibrant and colorful abstract art with her focus on shape and geometric forms. She pays homage to nature by using collage, color, and texture to create a sense of fluidity and depth experienced in natural settings to form her abstract creations.
In Cohen’s textured mixed media paintings, she collages hessian elements, cardboard, photos, paper, and recycled materials. The materials she uses in her work direct our attention to caring about our resources’ intentional use in all we do.
64 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
“Diffusion”, Acrylic, Markers On Wood Panel Board, 12”x12”
“Emerald Leaves” Acrylic, Paper, Markers On Wood Panel Board, 12”x12”
Wendy Cohen’s style explores shapes, lines, forms, and colors in relation to natural and urban surroundings communicated in an abstracted language. Everything, in reality, is a conglomeration of shapes, and by integrating shapes into a cohesive body of colors and forms in conjunction with collage elements, Wendy aims to convey her poetry and harmonious rhythm to her paintings, developing playful imagery with a dynamic and inventive sensibility.
“Mingle Intermingle” Acrylic, Paper, Markers On Wood Panel Board, 12”x12”
“Emerald Leaves” Acrylic, Paper, Markers On Wood Panel Board, 12”x12”
“Diffusion” Acrylic, Paper, Markers On Wood Panel Board, 12”x12”
Viviana Puello - ATIM CEO
ArtTour International Magazine Highlights Top 60 Master Artists in Highly Anticipated Awards Ceremony
A
fter two years of patiently waiting, ArtTour International Magazine was finally able to push through with its Top 60 Masters Awards, fondly known as the Oscar's of the Visual Arts. The ceremony took place last Dec. 10, 2021, at the Manhattan Neighborhood Network Community Media Center studios in New York. With our CEO and editor-in-chief Vivian Puello at the helm of recognizing the world's 60 most promising and gifted artists, the event was filled with an atmosphere of encouragement and appreciation for various artists' creative works and hard work.
66 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
Artists with Viviana Puello - ATIM CEO, during the award ceremony. Therese Bosclair Awarded Artist, Ric Conn Awarded Artist, Jimena Becerra Awarded Artist ,Pako Campo Awarded Artist
With the graphic direction of Alan Grimandi, this year's event was considered to be ArtTour International Magazine's most prominent activity. Apart from recognizing its 60 Masters from over 40 countries, it also gave Patricia Karen Gagic the Artist of the Year Award. Additionally, the special Art Titan Award was proudly given to Master Artist Ric Conn, who specializes in expressionist art depicting different social issues involving women empowerment.
Artist Ric Conn
"Our intention is clear, to always be active in our support and promotion of the intercultural exchange by showcasing these master artists from over forty countries across the world. We can bring much-needed awareness of the continued search for global peace," Vivian shared. Cont. next page
www.arttourinternational.com
Our Guest of Honor Zenaida Mendez, Director, MNN El Barrio Firehouse Community Media Center
WINTER 2022 | 67
“Our intention is to support and promote intercultural exchange by showcasing these master artists from over 40 countries. We can bring much-needed awareness of the continued search for global peace” Viviana Puello Our Guest of Honor Zenaida Mendez, Director, MNN El Barrio Firehouse Community Media Center
Artist Therese Bosclair
Artist Jim Fitzpatrick
Artist Janice Alamanou
68 | WINTER 2022
Artist Jimena Becerra
www.arttourinternational.com
Artist Margaretha Gubernale
Artist Pako Campo
All of the artists chosen by ArtTour International Magazine received an iconic sculpture called "Rising Above," created by Vivian Puello herself. The sculpture is a form of protest against guns, violence, and war. It is also a way to create awareness of the pressing need for world peace and unity. Puello chose to present the same version from the 2019 Ferrari Red to remind everyone that the fight for genuine peace around the world continues to be everyone's concern up to this day.
relevant change and impacting the world. In addition, Create4Peace is an active supporter of the ArtTour International Magazine Top 60 Masters Awards. ArtTour International Magazine is not accepting submissions for its 2023 Top 60 Masters Awards. Puello hopes that more and more artists will get the recognition they deserve as she continues to lead the magazine in creating awareness for their artworks.
For the past 11 years, ArtTour International Magazine has been instrumental in inspiring and engaging more than 10 million global viewers and readers by simply showcasing the phenomenal works of various artists and the important themes they represent.
For more information or to send a submission and nominate an artist visit our website www.arttourinternational.com.
Proudly best known as an industry leader in the multi-media art space, our magazine has given much-needed international exposure to countless gifted artists, regardless of the stage they are in their respective careers. In its commitment to continue to become an effective and helpful platform for art appreciation, it expanded into other platforms, including television and international events. If anything, ArtTour International Magazine has become instrumental in boosting the careers of multiple artists. Alongside Vivian Puello's commitment to bring the platform further so that more artists can benefit from it, her lifelong passion for art and service burned brighter over time. As a result, she created two non-profit organizations to give artists additional exposure: Create4Peace and Artists for a Green Planet. Apart from giving artists an avenue to promote their works, these organizations are also committed to positively promoting
Artist Susan Lotus
www.arttourinternational.com
Remembering late artist Live Babra. Our dear Liv past last year. We honor his work and commitment to sharing his message of peace.
Artist Patricia Gagic
WINTER 2022 | 69
ATIM’s Mesmerizing Exhibit at Spectrum Miami by Helen Grey
A
rtTour International's participation in the Spectrum Miami Art Fair, held from December 1st to the 5th, was a total success. The event, which ranks among South Florida's most important art fairs, was held at Mana Wynwood, the booming Wynwood Arts District center. More than 180 galleries from over 20 countries took part in the fair, and ArtTour International was among the top.
70 | WINTER 2022
www.arttourinternational.com
From Booth #503, ArtTour International showcased a lineup made up of contemporary digital art like photography, wearable art, paintings, and sculptures by notable international artists such as Frans Frengen from Belgium, Brenda Hartill from the United Kingdom, Kari Veastad from Norway, Monika Bender from Germany, and Barbara Tyler Ahlfield, Carol Levin, David Fleshman, Howard Harris, Jason Bryant, Kimberly Berg, Marian Adcock and Ric Conn from the United States.
ArtTour International also displayed a digital exhibition that saw contributions from Janice Alamanou and Paul Smith from the United Kingdom, Maribel Matthews from Gibraltar, Marty Jones, and Patricia Spoon from the United States Lize Krüger from Germany, and Filip Firlejn from Belgium.
Art will always remain an essential component in our lives as it allows us to see beyond just what we see with our eyes; there are many worlds within one work of art! The event was all about raising artists up and supporting businesses worldwide who work behind the scenes, from security guards to curators, from local publications to influential magazines, from sponsorship companies to innovative technology companies.
Artist Sveta Long
Artist Carol Levin
The best thing about attending art fairs is meeting artists in person and feeling their passion for art! Everyone needs an escape from their daily routines. It has become increasingly difficult to slow down and take a break from your typical routine in today's busy world. Art plays an important role when it comes to reflection and contemplating your next move to life's important decisions.
You can watch the ArtTour International TV Show on Spectrum 1993 - MNN- HD every Thursday at 5:30 pm, enjoy exclusive interviews with upcoming and well-known international Contemporary artists rising stars from around the globe. To learn more about ArtTour International Magazine's Spectrum Miami Exhibit, visit https://www.arttourinternational.com/ spectrum-catalog/. Or follow ATIM on Facebook and Instagram @arttourinternational.
WINTER 2022 | 71
www.arttourinternational.com Artist Barbara Tyler Ahlfield
BOOK REVIEWS By Viviana Puello
O
ne of my favorite things to do these cold winter days (or nights) is to cuddle with my dogs York and Lola in our favorite spot of the house and read a good book. I think the three of us enjoy those moments, although in different ways; I enjoy the reading, they enjoy the cuddling. Reading keeps our minds sharp and our inspiration alive. So here are my favorites of this season! These books have enriched my life so much that I cannot help but recommend them to you.
nowned multimedia producer, supermodel, award-winning actress, and public speaker Clarissa Burt offers down-to-earth advice for women to help them manifest self-confidence in all aspects of their lives: relationships, family, friendships, careers, and everyday engagement. The book helps readers find worthiness through a concrete, step-by-step program for women of all ages and backgrounds. Dare to Ask by Maureen Pisani:
The Self-Esteem Regime: An Action Plan for Becoming the Confident Person You Were Meant to Be by Clarissa Burt with Gary M. Krebs. What I love about it: It's a fun read yet life-transforming and profound. The book empowers women of all ages and backgrounds to improve their self-esteem and instills self-awareness, poise, and assurance. Clarissa Burt nails it in this self-help masterpiece. The book has a lot of inspirational stories and comes with exercises and affirmations to help you implement her teachings. Get it now; it will help you create a successful year. Description: In her revelatory and prescriptive work THE SELF-ESTEEM REGIME: An Action Plan for Becoming the Confident Person You Were Meant to Be, internationally-re-
72 | WINTER 2022
What I love about it: The author's openness, the love she pours on every word, and her voice can be felt on every page! Maureen Pisani made this book so relatable and touched on a subject that we all think about but rarely share in the open. This book is terrific for anyone going through a grieving process. It is also a must-have for everyone looking to open their minds to the inevitable reality of mortality. Description: Maureen takes the taboo subject of death and makes it relatable in her latest book, Dare To Ask. She weaves her Catholic upbringing into the fabric of the world's traditions and beliefs regarding death and invites people to get curious enough to take a deeper dive into what they truly know and believe about the transition process.
www.arttourinternational.com
Holy Shit, I'm A Gifted "Misfit"!: The Young Folx Guide to Unlock Your Superpower (The Holy Shit Series) by Dr. JJ Kelly.
they need to hear again and again. The author did a great job of writing a profound message that can be understood by his young readers and appreciated by adults. Storytelling at its best! Read it to your tiny giants, and you will for sure be planting a great seed in their hearts.
What I love about it: Dr. Kelly, that's what I love about it!!! Her directness. Wow, the connection between this doc and her young readers is awe-inspiring; I'm just so happy that there's a Dr. Kelly in this world. This book is pure love for our youth bottled in a package of coolness so that they receive it with open arms! The author speaks their language and knows their hearts, but it also helps us adults understand the challenges of youth. Big thanks to Dr. Kelly for this book!!
Description: This book teaches every child (and adult) that they are capable of great things if they work, think, and act differently. The book narrates the story of a Small, Ritt, who believes he is capable of more. Even though other Smalls tell him becoming a Giant is impossible, or that Giants are special, Ritt decides to venture out to discover the truth for himself. Ritt's character gradually develops, and we get to see the change in his thought processes, step by step. You only need to believe in yourself and work towards your goal relentlessly.
Description: Author, psychologist, and CEO Dr. J.J. Kelly spent years in the traditional mental health world, so she knows how broken it is and how little it can make a long-lasting impact for young folx. Just because you don't fit into what society says you should, that doesn't make you a "misfit." You deserve to stop being miserable in high school and beyond. Take the first step toward happiness today. Words, Women & Wisdom: The Modern Art of Confident Conversations by Yvonne E.L. Silver. What I love about it: I love how it empowers us, women, to raise our voices with confidence and build authority. It's refreshing and enlightening! A book to transform our conversation with assertiveness to show up full of confidence. This book comes at the right era and during the right time. The principles Yvonne shares in this book give you a new perspective and open a world of possibilities. Great for women in all stages of their careers and life journey—this is a powerful resource you cannot miss! Description: Rediscover your inner confidence and take a stand in life and business by using powerful language - in modern ways. This book promises the female reader forty words and words concepts to help women have more powerful conversations and elevate their confidence at home and in business. The Giants and the Smalls: The Adventure of Rimi and Ritt by Nicholas Townsend Smith. What I love about it: I love everything about this book, the message, the illustrations, how it goes to the hearts of our children—what a fantastic book! Grab it today and read it to your younger loved ones; it contains an important message
www.arttourinternational.com
Neo-Emotionalism - The New Era by Fabian Perez What I love about it: I'm a fan of Fabian's work, and this book does a fantastic job at showcasing his masterpieces. In addition, the book's quality is top of the line. Hardcover, excellent paper, vibrant colors, gold page borders, elegant presentation, a true museum book with a lavish, luxurious feel; I love it!!! I received this book in the mail and was in awe. I was honored to write a foreword for the book. Fabian Perez's work is phenomenal, and following his career through the years has been a great experience. This book is great for art lovers, artists who want to learn more about this master's techniques, and collectors looking for a great piece. Description: This gorgeous coffee table book publication is Fabian Perez's fourth art book. Among the new works from his romantic collection, Fabian attempts to demonstrate the new era of his career as an artist and as a person through the pages. From the beautiful women and the suffering handsome man to the living legends of our century, it is demonstrated that the artist's trajectory is still in the best of its splendor.
Are you interested in having your book reviewed by our Editor-in-Chief? Email info@arttourinternational.com with the subject BOOK REVIEW to get more information. Note: This is not a paid advertisement page, and book reviews cannot be requested or ordered. We will be happy to forward your book to Viviana, and if chosen, you will find your book review in this column.
WINTER 2022 | 73
www.arttourinternational.com
WINTER 2022 | 75
76 | SUMMER 2021
www.arttourinternational.com
