Visual Language Magazine Vol 2 No 11 Nov 2013

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VISUAL LANGUAGE

contemporary fine art

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November Volume 2 No. 11

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VISUAL LANGUAGE

Contemporary Fine Art

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VL Cover Artist

V.L. Rees Contemporary Realism V. L. Rees is best known for contemporary realism executed in oils. However, on hot summer afternoons, she has been known to give in to the abstract.

She draws inspiration from her appreciation of the beauty found in the everyday. Unusual angles, dramatic lighting, and nature’s intricacies all capture her attention.

Vicki’s work is exhibited regionally and is in collections in the South and Midwest.

Originally from Indianapolis, she moved to North Carolina after a 20+ year stop in Kentucky. She and her husband live in downtown Raleigh and enjoy being within walking distance to many of the city’s First Friday art venues.

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“Esoterica” 24’’x24’’x2.5’’ Mixed Media on Canvas

content Cover Artist VL Rees

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VL Rees, Artspan Contemporary Realism

Painter’s Keys - Robert Genn 11 CFAI Colors on My Palette 40 Corey Reier and Diane Morgan

Read the up close and personal interviews from two CFAI.co artists. Find out more about what they use when painting and things that are special in their lives.

ARTSPAN New Works - 36

VL/Artspan Studio Visit with American Artist Robert Huckestein 62 “Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, I have had art in my blood for as long as I can remember.”

VL Visit with The Artists of Texas 56 Generations of Art fill the Great State of Texas.

Meet some of the members of the Artists of Texas as they prepare for the Fifth Annual AOT Juried Show at Dutch Art Gallery in Dallas.

VL Studio Interview with American Artist Hall Groat 74 Pace - Did you ever feel competitive to your Dad or challenged to do more? Groat - No, never in the field of art, but during my early teens my father and I were very competitive at tennis.

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VL Gallery Visit with the Dutch Art Gallery, Dallas Texas 98 Generations of Art in this family gallery featuring Collectible Paintings from two centuries.

Light on the Land, David Blevins Gallery, St Jo, Texas 116 The Davis & Blevins Gallery is hosting an exciting Plein Air event.

“Light on the Land” a three-day weekend filled with art, painting, food, and fun .

VL Barry Scharf 120 Our Ego or Our Spirit?

As artists, we are faced with the dilemma of believing in what is factual and what is belief beyond proof of knowledge, often called faith. Recently comedian Bill Maher said, “Faith is the suspension of critical thinking.” Although humorous it did not sound like a joke, instead it struck a cord of truth that made me began to reexamine some beliefs I simply held in faith.

CFAI.co Juried Show 124 Best of Show Corey Reier “Mancora 2633” First Place, Sunny Marler “Implosion” Second Place, Tracy Lang “Treacle” Third Place, Robert McFarland “April Showers”

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ARTSPAN Spotlight with Melissa Post van der Burg 128 When did you realize you loved art and wanted to be an artist?

When I was 9 years old, my third grade teacher asked me to be the official class artist—my job was to illustrate the book reports written by my classmates. I loved the responsibility and feeling kind of special because I was actually good at something.

Artists of Texas 2013 Master Signature Members 140 Five Master Signature Members share their work in celebration of the Fifth Annual AOT Juried Show.

Anthony A Gonzalez, Rebecca Zook, Tina Bohlman, David Forks and Jimmy Longacre.

VL Photographer Romoli Francesco 162 Francesco Romoli was born in Pisa in 1977. Always interested in expressive forms of any type at age 14 he began to study guitar and music theory. He fell in love with computers in 1998 and started to work on hacking and net-art.

He graduated in 2004 in Pisa in computer science.

CFAI.co Art Challenge 170 Best of Show - Terry Honstead, First Place, Sallie-Anne Swift Second Place Carmen Beecher, Third Place Barbara Mason.

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Artist of the Day “Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” ― Edgar Degas

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Caroline Ratliff Artist of the Day “Painting is my passion and joy, filling an inner need to produce something of beauty. My paintings are an extension of the way I connect emotionally with nature. Painting from life gives me the opportunity to see the nuances of color and light and a sense of the location.” Caroline Ratliff http://carolineratliff.com/

http://artistofthedayvl.blogspot.com/2013/09/visual-language-magazine-artist-of-day_13.

artistofthedayvl.blogspot.com If you want to be featured on Artist of the Day, Contact Visual Language Magazine.

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Colors of Life

Dyan Newton DyanNewton.com Visit my website for workshops and class schedules.

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VISUAL LANGUAGE MAGAZINE Contemporary Fine Art

Visual Language Magazine Staff Editorial Editor -in-Chief Laurie Pace Executive Editor Lisa Kreymborg Consulting Editor Nancy Medina Consulting Editor Diane Whitehead Consulting Editor Debbie Lincoln Feature Contributor Robert Genn Painter’s Keys CFAI Contributor Kimberly Conrad Feature Editor Art Reviews Hall Groat II Feature Writer Barry Scharf Feature Writer David Darrow VL Sponsor ARTSPAN Eric Sparre Advertising Contact: VisualLanguageMagazine@gmail.com Marketing and Development Executive Director Business/Management Stacey Hendren All Artwork is Copyrighted by the Individual Artists.

Visual Language Vol 2 No 11

www.carolineratliff.com

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www.heatherharmanfineart.com

www.lisa-mckinney.com

Robert Genn’s Studio Book

Figure drawing October 1, 2013 Dear Artist, At one point in his career (1620), Antwerp’s Peter Paul Rubens had 80 apprentices sketching figures in charcoal and making pounce patterns. In the 1920s every American art school held figure drawing classes. The Roaring ‘20s may have been roaring but, apart from the African issues of National Geographic, the figure drawing class was the only legitimate access to nudity.

National competitions for student drawings were held and the results often published. One such, from 1927, is among my vintage book collection. It shows the year’s winners--each briefly noted as follows: “Morris Schwartz, pupil of Kimon Nicolaides, Art Students League, New York.” The drawings are often a compelling education in themselves. While an unclear division between “imitative, constructive and expressive” was made in the book’s introduction, the usual long-winded appraisals of each drawing were left out. They all look pretty realistic to me. We’ve included a noted selection at the top of the current clickback.

Painter’s Keys - Robert Genn

Painter’s Keys with Robert Genn

In those days the undraped figure was the temple of the soul. As such, the model was set up on a plinth or pedestal, often above eye level to the seated or standing artists. Legs are often long and torsos foreshortened. Male models were covered up in brief, female models not so. Lost lines and unresolved forms were commonplace and an aid to avoiding the naughty parts. The results were sensitive, delicate and often understated.

Treatment of light and shadow was interesting. Although there are a few exceptions, details in shadow were avoided in favour of detail in the lit parts. It would be another decade before detail was commonly put into shadow and “dazzled out” in the light parts.

Looking at the craft of these drawings and the attention to type, race and the classical nobility of the models, one might conclude it was a last gasp of decency and propriety. Modernism was looking in the door and a new era was emerging, particularly in Europe, where drawing from the model was on the way out. In Picasso’s atelier, for example, one eye was up the chimney and the other in the pot. And where, we might ask, is the work of Morris Schwartz today? My goodness, what has happened to civilization?

Best regards, Robert PS: “To express one’s inner self so that others can understand you, is art. If your expressions are elevated and beautiful, it is good art.” (Author unknown, from the preface of “Fifty Figure Drawings--a Selected Group of the Best Figure Drawings submitted to the Fifty Best Drawing Jury,” 1927) Esoterica: Many of today’s art schools hold life classes and figure drawing in much the same way as yesteryear.

The human figure is accepted as a prime learning tool for form, line, gesture and design. Also, because of the remarkable variety between individual humans, the undraped figure is key to understanding bodily personality. When I was in art school I loved my days in life class. Like a lot of us, I’ve always had a desire to understand varieties of personality, and “bodily” is just one of them.

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tp://conniedines.com/

“Artistic exposures one frame at a time�

Three Sentinals

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connie dines Sea Path

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Aureline II Isabelle Gautier 36 x 48

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French Contemporary Flair

Aureline I Isabelle Gautier 36 x 48

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LAU RA R E E D

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Abstract Collage Paintings

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Life Experiences VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 19

Mirada Fine Art

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Angel Wings

JUDY MACKEY judymackey.com 22 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

Mark Yearwood

Solo Exhibition Opening October 18, 2013 InArt Gallery 219 Delgado Street Santa Fe, NM 505-983-6537 www.InArtSantaFe.com

MarkYearwood.com

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Filomena de Andrade Booth Opposing Forces

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Linda McCoy lindamccoyart.blogspot.com Gallery - Studio 209 S West Street, Mason Ohio, 45040 VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 25

CFAI.co Colors On My Palette

Corey Reier http://www.behance.net/coreyreier http://www.creierart.com hhttp://www.cfai.co/#!colors-on-my-palette-interview/cy2z

When did you realize you loved art and wanted to be ‘an artist’?

Most likely when my dad gave me drawing lessons at the age of eight or so. He would set up an easel with a big pad of blank paper and we would draw futuristic characters and landscapes.

Who has been the greatest influence from your past to mentor you to this career?

Again that would have to be my parents in the past and present. They supported my art making from an early age, from early pursuits in high school to majoring in painting in college. Their encouragement let me experience and experiment with art, all the while knowing that fine art for the most part is not a trade or career that lends to job security. This freedom and lack of resistance as a young artist has enabled me find my current path in making art.

Who is your mentor today, or another artist you admire and why?

I admire many contemporary artists but what inspires me the most are those artists whom do not know they are creating art. For instance the drawings of children usually 3 years and younger or an artist that has severe autism such as Dan Miller. These artists have pure gesture in their marks and have a perception lacking pretension. A lack of intention and deliberate art making, pure spontaneity, is what I admire and try to learn from these artists.

What is your favorite surface to paint on? Describe it if you make it yourself.

The surface I find paintings on is usually a concrete wall in close proximity to actions of daily living. Most recent work was captured on a sea wall in southern California wherein the ocean had eroded and stained the wall located on a beach. There had been fires at the base of the wall which lended to a rich history of drawing and writing with the charcoal from the beach fires.

Do you have a favorite color palette?

The color of time and history on a surface is preferred.

What subject appears the most in your paintings and why?

The markings of persons unaware they are contributing to the history of a surface appears most frequently in my recent work. Many surfaces exhibit a collaboration between an entire community marking the passing of a multitude of events and experiences over time. This is the art want to capture with photography due to the uninhibited and genuine display of history of time,space and place.

Read more at http://www.cfai.co/#!colors-on-my-palette-interview/cy2z 26 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

Tamarack 14

Tamarack 24

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CFAI.co Colors On My Palette

Diane Morgan http://www.dianemorganpaints.com http://www.cfai.co/#!colors-on-my-palette-interview/cy2z When did you realize you loved art and wanted to be ‘an artist’?

I’ve drawn and painted for as long as I can remember. My father was a talented artist, but he only painted as a hobby. As a child I remember seeing some of his wonderful drawings at my grandparent’s house. Later, watching him paint influenced me to want to try.

I started college as a language major, but switched to art my junior year. I decided to pursue what I loved rather than what I thought I should do. I majored in painting, but was offered a job in advertising before I graduated. I eventually owned my own advertising agency and loved my career. I never tried making a living as a fine artist until later in life. Wish I had started it sooner!

Who has been the greatest influence from your past to mentor you to this career?

My college professor told me to paint big. I think of that every time I pick up a brush. Even a 6” x 8” canvas can have a big impact if the image is bold. This advice really helped determine my style.

Who is your mentor today, or another artist you admire and why?

My current favorite modern day watercolorists are Mary Whyte, Dean Mitchell and the late Mark Adams.

Their skill levels are amazing and inspirational..

What is your favorite surface to paint on? Describe it if you make it yourself.

Stretched canvas for oil. 300# Arches cold press for watercolor.

What brand of paints do you use?

Winsor and Newton and Holbein watercolors. Winsor and Newton water soluble oils.

Do you have a favorite color palette?

I tend to stick with a few old-time favorites. Alizarin Crimson, Payne’s Grey, Cobalt Blue, Sap Green, Lemon Yellow, Cadmium Yellow, and Cad Red. I love making my own blacks and grays with varying mixes of red/green/blue. There are so many wonderful new colors available. I’m trying to be more adventurous. I’ve recently added Lavender and Cobalt Turquoise to my palette. The Quinacridones are also fun, as are the new metallics.

What is your favorite color in your closet?

Teal, fuschia and black. Did you say one?

Read more at http://www.cfai.co/#!colors-on-my-palette-interview/cy2z

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I Love Bees

Just Glorious Read more at http://www.cfai.co/#!colors-on-my-palette-interview/cy2z VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 29

Heather Gail Harman

Right Page ‘Thorie’s Chocolate’ Left Bottom ‘Thorie’s Magic’ Left Top ‘Monet’s Obsession’ (Three images of Monet at different ages, set in front of his painting of Giverny garden).

Commemorative Heirloom Portraiture - Domestic, Corporate, Company Founders, Boardroom

HeatherHarmanFineArt.com heatherharman@outlook.com

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HeatherHarmonFineArt.com VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 31 heatherharmon@outlook.com

N J Busse Painter of the American West

nanceejean.com njovmc@gmail.com 970.261.2028

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Aspen S P A C E S Lelija Roy

Art on a Whim Gallery 100 N Main St--Towne Square Breckenridge, CO www.artonawhim.com (970) 547-8399

www.lelija.net

James Ratliff Gallery 671 State Route 179--The Hillside Sedona, AZ www.jamesratliffgallery.com (928) 282-1404 VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 33

Goodnight to the Day Oil on Canvas

Dutch Art Gallery. Dallas DutchArtGallery.net 34 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

Mirada Fine Art. Denver MiradaFineArt.com

RareGalleryJacksonHole.com

Laurie Justus Pace

Ellepace.com

Rare Gallery. Jackson Hole

South Hill Gallery: Lexington SouthHillGallery.com VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 35

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Newest Works

Silvia Rutledge

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Laurel Lake McGuire

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Marina Petro

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Scott Hawxhurst

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Carol Jo Smidt

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Wailea Starry Night 18 x 24 inches

Eric Bodtker ericbodtker.com

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Nancee Jean Busse

2nd Annual “Colors of Autumn” Fall Juried Show 2013 $500 in total cash prizes Open to 2D visual artists worldwide www.cfai.co/#!juried-shows/c19ne VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 39

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VL Studio Visit

Robert Huckestein

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artspan

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VL

Studio Visit

Robert Huckestein

Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, I have had art in my blood for as long as I can remember. When I was a child, I couldn’t wait to get up on Saturday morning, turn on the television, (a new fangled contraption at the time) pull out my box of John Nagy art supplies that I had sent away for, and begin that morning’s art project that John Nagy had prepared for his television audience of young, aspiring artists. That is one of my earliest memories that had me dreaming of becoming an artist some day.

Ever since those Saturday art projects, I have been drawing, painting, and reading about other artists, both past and present, to help me in my quest to become a professional artist. However, my art career went in another direction early on because of some well-meaning people, including my parents, who kept telling me that trying to make a living as an artist was unrealistic. So, I began my thirty-five year career in the engineering field. Although this career did help me to support my wife, and to raise two wonderful children, it did put my full time art career on hold. But, it didn’t stop me from drawing, painting, and studying art history. The years that I spent working in the engineering field allowed me to visit galleries and museums around the world which helped me to learn about art and artists in other countries. It also allowed me to use my spare time to improve my drawing and painting skills, and take painting workshops from a variety of artists in the country.

Fast forward to today, and here I am living my dream as a full time artist. The paintings and drawings I create are a result of all those years spent honing my artistic skills, and studying techniques of past artists, as well as contemporary artists of today. My early paintings were experiments of many different styles from abstract to photorealism. But, I always returned to drawing and painting in a realistic style of which my work is now recognized for. These realistic paintings and drawings are of the architecture, and the people of the city and surrounding small towns that are distinct of Western Pennsylvania. I find these buildings and people are interesting subject matter for my paintings and drawings.

I have also worked on learning all I could about all the materials that I use in my paintings and drawings. Some of the materials I use for these paintings are oil and acrylic paint, pastels, and watercolors. My drawings are done with charcoal and graphite pencils. All the painting, drawing, and reading I did in the past has helped me to not only improve my own art work, but also prepared me for the adult classes and work shops that I teach at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts and other organizations in Pittsburgh.

My work follows a process that begins with an emotional connection to whatever I have chosen to paint or draw. My early paintings began mostly as studies of the architecture of Pittsburgh, the old homes and the large buildings that were occupied by many of the businesses and corporations that made Pittsburgh one of our country’s largest corporate headquarters. People were not part of these paintings in the beginning, but as time went on, the figure started to manifest itself gradually into the composition. As my work evolved, I became more and more fascinated with the figure until eventually the figure took over, and the architecture became just a backdrop for the rest of the composition.

I now use both the figure and the architecture together to make a statement. I’ll use one figure or a combination of figures in the composition that have a connection to each other, that tells a story, refers to something in the past, or has a connection to a current event that’s associated with a local or national news story. http://www.roberthuckestein.com/

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artspan

The Gathering Oil on Canvas 54 x 32

Benched Oil on Canvas 60 x 48

http://www.roberthuckestein.com/

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VL

Studio Visit

Robert Huckestein

Bloomfield PA, Oil on Canvas 40 x 50

The technical part of my painting process consists of a pallet with fourteen colors plus titanium white, which I lay out everyday before I begin to paint. The colors are yellow ochre, raw sienna, burnt umber, raw umber, burnt sienna, french ultramarine blue, cerulean blue, alizarin crimson, cadmium red light, sap green, terre verte, viridian, cadmium yellow light, and cadmium lemon yellow. Special colors are mixed during the painting process as needed.

My painting process begins by drawing directly on the canvas with paint and using reference photographs, and/or preliminary sketches as a starting point. The more involved compositions require the use of live models and doing preliminary sketches in order to build the compositional elements in the painting. This approach allows me to resolve problems prior to laying in color.

The first layer of paint is put on the canvas in order to cover the white of the canvas and to help establish preliminary colors and values for the painting. As the painting progresses, I am looking at proportions, value, color, and edges in the painting, and making any corrections based on these observations that will help bring the painting to completion. The colors in my paintings are bright, but accurate in order to maintain the realism that I strive for in my work. I also use warm and cool colors and complementary colors in my paintings to give it balance and unity throughout. The painting process can take weeks, or months, depending on the complexity of the composition and the size of the painting.

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artspan I have developed this process over the years based on many influences including artists of the past such as John Singer Sargent, Edward Hopper, and Winslow Homer, and contemporary artists Philip Pearlstein, Harvey Dinnerstien, Lucian Freud, and Max Ginsburgh. Although these are artists that I sometimes refer to while working on a painting, I do not limit myself to just those few artists, nor do I try to copy their styles. I have developed a style of my own based on bright colors, realism, and a strong composition that I hope will translate into a strong and moving work of art.

I have been the recipient of several awards for my artwork in both national and regional shows, including a painting for which I received the Purchase Award in the Art of the State Exhibition at The State Museum of Pennsylvania, and is now part of the state’s permanent collection. Many of my paintings and drawings are included in a number of private and corporate collections, and are represented at The Pittsburgh Center for the Arts Gallery Shop, Courtney-Laughlin Gallery in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, and, Panza Gallery and Frame in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Gus & YiaYia’s

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VL

Studio Visit

Robert Huckestein

I have found that there are bridges that we artists cross in our work, which take us from one improvement to another. It may be something as simple as figuring out a color combination, or as complicated as a warm and cool color passage that needs to be adjusted, or a compositional problem that needs to be resolved. But, no matter what the roadblock, it is important that, as artists, we continue to build a solid foundation, which includes sharpening our drawing skills, strengthening our knowledge of our materials, and striving to create a strong and balanced composition. All this will turn our passion, persistence, and exploration into inspirational works of art.

Going Unnoticed, Oil on Canvas 24 x 20

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artspan

If We Only Knew Then What We Know Now, Oil on Canvas 60 x 40

Rembrandt’s Eyes, Oil on canvas 50 x 36

http://www.roberthuckestein.com/

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Soniya Patel Portraits on Commission Individual, Family and Group Portraits

www.soniyaamritpatel.com soniyaamritpatel@hotmail.com 48 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

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GILLEY Lunell Gilley

LunellGilley.com

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BOZ EMAN

I aim to portray a special moment of time within each of my pieces. I love the play of light and color to depict movement on the canvas: the flick of a tail, floating clouds, the majesty of the canyon. Capturing these little marvels is the driving force that inspires me to create.

NABozeman.com VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 51

Connie Chadwell ConnieChadwell.com

www.TatianaMyersFineArt.com

vlrees.com

Vicki Rees

http://www.vlrees.com/

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vlrees.com

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artistsof texas Fifth Annual Show Nov 1, 2013 through January 11th 2014.

The Dutch Art Gallery, Dallas, Texas

For as long as mankind has played a role in this world, artists have recorded that role. Every era in our history has been recorded, defined, refined, and enhanced by its artists… and today is no exception. Every second holds a lifetime of inspiration, and in our fast-paced world this means that capturing the essence of the era requires a veritable army, millions strong and wielding their chosen implements of creation. Right now there are untold numbers of artists channeling their situations, their conflicts, their passions, their grievances—their lives and the lives of those around them—into their work. Transforming their energy into what matters. Using their art to tell the whole story.

The Artists of Texas live across the great state’s numerous regions of coast, plains, prairies, mountains, deserts and forests. The work of the Artists of Texas is as diverse as the state reflecting the strength of inspiration and creativitiy. Founded in 2009 by three Daily Painters, Vernita Bridges Hoyt, Debbie Lincoln and Laurie Pace, the group has grown in five years to 150 members. Membership is through a jury process of review of the artist’s work, their community involvement in promoting the arts or teaching workshops, and in the professional level of their work.

Since 2009, The Dutch Art Gallery, Dallas, Texas, has hosted the group’s annual state show, with the November 2013 being their fifth annual show, ‘No Where But Texas’, named this year by artist, Kay Wyne. The very first show in 2009 featured the work of 24 artists. Five years later in 2013, the show featuring the work of over seventy juried in artists with a second jury to award best of show and second and third place culminating in the presentation of cash prizes at the November 2nd opening to ‘Meet the Artists’.

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The Artists of Texas has a main website, http://ArtistsofTexas.org , and they have two very active blogsites featured incredible art by their membership. http://artistsoftexas.blogspot.com http://dailypaintersoftexas.blogspot.com In the honored membership there are 35 Signature Members and 5 Master Signature Members.

AOT Mission Statement: The mission of AOT is to educate, advance and promote art created by it’s members. All members must be residents of the state of Texas. AOT is committed to providing education opportunities, scholarships, workshops, technological support, and encouragement to it’s members, at all levels membership.

There are four levels of membership for AOT: • AOT Member $120 • AOT Signature Member Honorary • AOT Master Signature Member Honorary • Friends of AOT $25 AOT Member An individual who draws, paints, carves, molds, or sculpts to create representational or non-representational art in his or her own style is eligible for AOT Member status. AOT must reside in the state of Texas and pay monthly or annual dues. It is advantageous for networking purposes for the artist to blog or have a website, but not mandatory.

AOT Signature Member Signature Members will consistently demonstrate high quality work, and have participated in at least two membership juried shows. In the spirit of mentoring, a Signature Member will participate and share in workshops, art demonstrations, blogs, and be a positive force for the organization. Whether an emerging or well established Texas artist, this level of membership is for artists who are passionate about art. Membership is by invitation.

AOT Master Signature Member Master Signature Members not only create exceptional artwork of various mediums, but have participated in at least three juried AOT exhibits. Members at this level make significant and meaningful contributions in their community through art, and donate time and talent to the AOT organization. Membership is by invitation.

Friends of AOT As an individual or organization, a friend of AOT is a member in supporting role. Galleries, businesses or individuals may join AOT at this level. there will be special events and gifts through out the year for the Friends of AOT. Apply to the Artists of Texas http://www.artistsoftexas.org/join-us.html

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Artists of Texas What is it that makes the Artists Of Texas so special? Talent is a given. It’s the camaraderie within the group. We’re friends as well as colleagues - in our annual membership show at Dutch Art Gallery, we compete for prizes, but at the same time, we promote one another’s work collectively and celebrate individual successes as a group with great joy. AOT is all about the Texas spirit; individualism, style, subject matter and medium choices are all over the place, but in an exhibition, the collective works “come together” to create a show that is absolutely stunning. I’m extremely proud to be a member of this organization.

Hay Meadow” 12x16 Oil

Tina Bohlman Master Signature www.tinabohlman.com www.tinabohlman.blogspot.com

Being a member of the ARTIST OF TEXAS has allowed me to advance and increase my art presence in the social media market place. I am grateful that my artwork is now being viewed on a worldwide scale. By combining our energy as a group, we have collectively produced a united - desirable and marketable art product that is available to galleries and serious collectors!

Artfully, Barbara J. Mason http://www.dragonflystudiocreations.com/

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As a member of the Artists of Texas group, I am a part of a wonderful art community. This group of Texas artists shares information concerning art and the business side of art. It goes without saying everyone has creative artistic talent, and the members are great human beings to be associated with on a daily basis. I think that as artists we all have a common bond running through us, and we are eager to encourage, help, teach and support each other in our artistic journey.

Kay Wyne Signature www.kwyne.com Color, Boiling color is where it happens with most.

As with any painter my work reflects my moods through drama, color and composition , on today’s canvases.

From an early age I knew art would play a special part in my life. I was surrounded by artists and musicians on both sides of my family. And there is the part where I never quit drawing. I was different from the other kids at school.

My life is charmed; will never quit my art, and have to thank our Maker.

Lunell Gillley http://lunellgilley.fineartstudioonline.com/

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Artists of Texas

For 30 years I was an Account Executive for Wrangler Jeans in Texas, but at heart I was always an Artist. I was an expert at marketing jeans. You would think selling Wrangler Jeans in a state like Texas would be easy because they are the greatest jeans going.

They are, but you still have to let people know all about them. What’s new, who’s wearing them, where they can be purchased.

As an Artist you have similar problems. Even the greatest artists on Earth need marketing.

Van Gogh only sold one painting in his lifetime and it was to his brother. It wasn’t until his sister in law started marketing his work that he became known. For today’s Artist vehicles like the Artists of Texas and Visual Language are essential to getting your art before the public. You have to let people know all about you: what are you painting, why are you painting, and where can your art be seen and bought.

Bob Shepherd http://www.portraitsbyshep.com http://blogbyshep.blogspot.com

A native Texas artist, I currently live in Spring, Texas north of Houston. Art has been a lifelong passion for me, starting in early childhood. I have explored many mediums along the way, including acrylics, watercolor, sculpture, pastel, china painting and my first love oil.

I have been fortunate to take numerous classes and workshops from talented professional artist including Bob Wygant, Tom Browning, Ron Riddick, Scott Burdick and Carolyn Anderson among others.

For over a decade the majority of my time was occupied with private commissioned murals in acrylic, done mostly from old master’s work requested by the client. Currently I am back painting originals mainly from oils and pastels. I am thankful to have an art filled life working at something I love. Art gives meaning to my life and a deeper appreciation of the beauty surrounding me daily. It is a never ending process to learn and improve my skills and a way to express myself.

I am proud to be a member of the Artist of Texas, to have their support and the links available to follow the work of other Texas artist.

Betty James http://bettyjames.fineartstudioonline.com/

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“Artists of Texas has been a significant part of my growth as an artist. This is a group of talented artists who are happy to support and encourage one another’s creative endeavors.

I enjoy the friendship of the other members, and appreciate the advertising and show opportunities that the AOT leadership provides.”

Sharon Hodges Signature http://sharonhodgesfineart.com

My photography is in the Miksang Contemplative Photography style.

In contemplative photography, a synchronization of the eye and the mind is cultivated where the artist is mindful of the present moment without judging, reflecting or thinking; where they can discover and capture the ordinary magic of the world. This magic manifests itself as images of things in our ordinary world that are often overlooked or ignored, but hold their own unique beauty and expression.

I have thoroughly enjoyed being a member of AOT. The caliber of the work is very high and the group is rich with a variety of wonderfully talented artists. It is part of my regular morning ritual to review the AOT blog posts to see what delightful and stunning works are being shared by the group. The group’s creativity brings a breath of inspiration and appreciation to my mornings.

Denise Bossarte Found Worlds Photography www.foundworlds.com

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Artists of Texas

Artist of Texas is a wonderful group of artists that represent our great state of Texas well. This membership has the skills and strong foundation to keep moving forward in the art world.

Everyday is a new beginning! My world is a collage of endless possibilities for painting ideas each day.

I painted the rooster and hen with a gentle glance to convey “Conversation in the Yard”.

Thank you to Dutch Gallery and AOT, Donna Bland DonnaBland.com

“I look forward to the AOT exhibition at the Dutch Art Gallery every year. In the three years I’ve been participating in this show, it’s gotten bigger and better every year. I can’t wait to see this years amazing work!”

George DeChiara http://georgedechiara.com/

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The beauty of the ordinary is what I try to capture in my paintings. We are surrounded by unlimited opportunities to share with others the unique qualities of color, light and form that are part of our everyday lives. Too often we overlook the simple beauty of God’s creations or pass them by. Whether it’s the quiet glow of a sunlit morning, the softness of a cloudy afternoon or the interplay of colors and form in a still life arrangement--I try to capture in my paintings the unique light and atmosphere of my subjects. “...I work from life, and I want viewers to feel like they’re seeing what I’m seeing--on that day, in that place, in that way.” Barbara Jones http://www.barbarajonesfineart.com

It’s good to belong to a group of fellow Texan artists that you can feel close to even if there has not been a face-to-face introduction. As a group our posts get picked up faster in the Google results and it helps get our work noticed. We have a hard working team to keep us reminded of deadlines and opportunities. If you are a Texas artist why not join our little band of artists? We would welcome you and support your efforts and we always welcome patrons. (art Whitney a recent commission of a torn paper collage painting using hand painted papers and found papers is a 20x16 in. on gallery wrapped canvas.)

Nancy Standlee

http://www.nancystandlee.com/

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Dawn Waters Baker

“Redemption” 36x36 on Gessobord

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ANTHONY A. GONZĂ LEZ

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30” by 40” Acrylic on Canvas by Crystal Goodman $1400

www.vinodipinte.com

Crystal Goodman

Vino Dipinte Art Gallery 602 Orient St VisualLanguageMagazine.com -San VL Magazine 67 76903 Angelo,|TX

Donna Bland Portrait, Figurative, Plein air, Still Life I have been an artist all my life from my first science project until today. I love to learn, create and share what I have experienced with others. Whether painting for someone with a special request, to leading a workshop, to being outdoors in the Texas Hill Country, Colorado or Mexico - my passion is creating a piece that reminds someone of a special moment, place or person in their lives.

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Caroline Ratliff Contemporary Texas Landscape Artist

Passages 24 x 30 oil

CarolineRatliff.com Original oil and pastel landscapes of the west

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Melissa Doron Simply Color

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ARTISTDORON.com Celebrating Nature and Life

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jweaver642@embarqmail.com

janetweaver.com

Janet Weaver

janetweaver.com

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Painting Title: Les Aubergines I Size: 18 x 24

janetweaver.com

Medium: Oil on canvas

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contemporary artist review Interview with Contemporary American artist, Hall Groat II, Professor and Chairman, Art and Design Department, SUNY Broome Community College

Laurie Pace, Editor-in-Chief, Visual Language, Contemporary Fine Art Magazine

Laurie Pace - What is your earliest memory that involves creating?

Hall Groat II - Playing in the sand and collecting seashells, along the seashore in Cape Cod. Pace - Did you ever feel competitive to your Dad or challenged to do more?

Groat - No, never in the field of art, but during my early teens my father and I were very competitive at tennis.

Pace - Do you have brothers or sisters or other family members that paint?

Groat - Yes, I have one sister who creates abstract collages. Her work is along the lines of the Harlem Renaissance artist, Romare Bearden.

Pace - What was life like growing up with your Dad painting full time?

Groat - I have very fond memories of my father working at home, and during my teens actually helping him with his business. I used to assist him in painting the large backgrounds for the various corporate and religious murals he was commissioned to create throughout upstate NY. Pace - Did you ever contemplate another profession?

Groat - Yes, while I was an undergraduate student at SUNY Binghamton during the mid-1980’s I was studying to be an urban regional planner, and then changed to architecture. My father took me to several architectural firms located in upstate, NY, and most all of them were negative when discussing the occupation. I recall them stating, “Why do you want to be an architect, when you are already an artist?; This field is so difficult now to be successful in since there are so many legal restrictions on architects.”

Pace - Where do you draw inspiration from in your work?

Groat - The history of art, especially 17th century Baroque chiaroscuro painting.

Pace - Have you ever stepped out of your comfort zone to try different approaches to your art? If so, what was it? Groat - Yes, I often step out of my comfort zone and explore atypical, non-conventional subjects. I find it helpful to explore both conventional archetypes and then delve into fresh ideas. For example, over the past few years I’ve been experimenting with polyptychs, which are multi-panel paintings. One of the most unusual ones is entitled “Virgin Earth Challenge” which is 35x35 in. overall, consisting of sixteen 8x8 in. panels.

This constructivist piece combines fragments of an internal combustion engine, juxtaposed with insects, bones, a hornets nest and human hand. Over the past few years I’ve also been inspired by the textures found in popular culture desserts and have painted quite a few of them. I decided one day to explore a few atypical associations, and ended up combing a large peanut butter and jelly sandwich with a pile of coins, entitled “Blood Money”. This initial piece then led to “Dirty Money”, “Bad Money” and then “Bling, Bling”. In the most recent piece, called “Bling, Bling”, one is confronts with a large piece of strawberry shortcake served on a sterling silver, ornate plate, which is enveloped by a monumental pair of hand-cuffs and coins. Yes, I’ve painted quite a few pieces involving food and money, which is apropos based on what’s taking place worldwide. The pieces are depicted in a slideshow on this page: http://hallgroat. com/painting-a-day/

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Hall Groat II

Pace- What do you do to continue ‘growing’ with your painting?

Groat - Teaching painting at the college allows me to grow since I feed off of the students’ creative energy. I’m inspired by the way college students explore ideas with a fresh vision. Perhaps it’s due to their tabula rasa minds, in the sense that they have not been exposed to too much art history and are not aware of what has been done or not done yet. In terms of painting, pretty much everything has been tried at least once, and knowing too much about art history could potentially inhibit one artistically, resulting from pre-qualifying everything that one considers painting.

Pace- How do you challenge yourself with your art?

Groat - I explore non-conventional subject matter and compositions, both within the large format and smaller, daily painting studies. For example, within “Human Heart with Brain” I painted an anatomical study depicting a dissected human brain on a 12x12 in. panel, which is presented alongside a second panel of a human heart as a diptych. I have always been interested in science, and the piece was inspired by a scientific exhibit I went to a few years ago in Buffalo, NY, entitled “Bodyworlds” that presented a variety of human body parts preserved through a unique plastination process that was invented by German anatomist, Gunther von Hagens. This piece prompted me to then paint a baby suspended within its mother’s womb at the five or six month point, along with a fetus at six weeks. http://hallgroat.com/baby-in-womb-8x8-oil-on-canvas-by-hall-groat-ii/ http://hallgroat.com/fetus-8x8-oil-on-canvas-by-hall-groat-ii/ Pace - Do you ever fight ‘demons’ that slow your creative process or create doubts?

Groat - Yes, I often ask myself “Why should I paint this; does this deserve to be painted; what’s more important, the subject and content or underlying aesthetic of the piece”? As a result, I work in series and am pushed towards exploring diverse subject matter, spanning from conventional motifs to the atypical or odd.

Pace - Tell us more about your newly launched website. You have always been a teacher and helped others in learning how to develop their own style, market their work ,etc., so how does your new site benefit not just your work, but the work of other artists?

Groat - Within my new site at www.HallGroat.com, there is a section where students may upload their paintings for a free critique. These critique posts include the student’s statement about their paintings (or what they are working on), along with my critique. So far, this has been a very popular area within the new web site since students may learn from one another’s work. Art students may also post comments at the bottom of each critique page, which are networked directly into FACEBOOK. Pace - What would be the best advice you share in the classroom with your art students?

Groat - Don’t allow your parents to push you into a practical career, unless this is what you really want to pursue in life. You will be the happiest and do the best at what you have a true passion for. There are many people who are making lots of money at what they do and are miserable. It’s important to find balance in life.

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Pace - If you could live anywhere and paint, where would it be?

Groat - Paris, or perhaps Santorini, one of the Greek Isles.

Pace - What type of music do you listen to?

Groat - My taste in music is diverse. I enjoy listening to a variety of classic rock and Jazz, all the way to alternative and classical symphonic orchestra music, such as Rachmaninov and Chopin.

Pace - Who are some of your favorite authors?

Groat - In recent years, I would have to say Leo Tolstoy has been one of my favorites.

Pace - What is your passion in life?

Groat - Making art, traveling, teaching and spending time with family and pets.

Pace - What is something no one knows about you?

Groat - I really wasn’t that talented in art during my high school years.

Blood Money 24 x 30 Oil on Canvas

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Hall Groat II

Pear with Silver Teapot and Pocket watch 11 by14 inches Oil on canvas by Hall Groat II

Dirty Money 24 by 30 inches Oil on canvas by Hall Groat II

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The Virgin Earth Challenge, Overall 35 by 35 inches, each panel 8 by 8 inches, Oil on canvas by Hall Groat II

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Hall Groat II

Bling, Bling 24 by30 inches Oil on Canvas by Hall Groat II

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Lemons with Silver Teapot, Pocket watch and Money 16 by 20 inches Oil on canvas by Hall Groat II

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Hall Groat II

New York Art Collection Hall Groat II, President WWW.NYARTGUIDE.NET

History During the late 1990’s, the New York Art Collection naturally evolved from the New York Art Guide publication, and currently showcases the permanent collection of the New York Art Guide quarterly publication, which was last published during the spring of 2000. The collection consists of various 19th and 20th century artists, including Pablo Picasso, Salvtore Dali, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Raphael Soyer, Leroy Neimen, Xavier Gonzalez, Jerome Witkin, Valfred Thelin, Jan DeRuth, Roger Walton, Romanos Rizk and several other well-known contemporary painters from the United States.

Objectives The New York Art Collection is committed to both selling and collecting significant works of art, and is dedicated to assisting our corporate and private clients build and refine art collections that reflect their individual interests. We are frequently able to locate original works of art that meet the needs of our clients.

Services We collaborate with designers, architects and developers with the selection and acquisition of works of art for corporate, hospitality and institutional interiors. From just a single giclée print to an entire fine art collection, we are dedicated to personal service, competitive pricing, strict regard for quality control and adherence to delivery schedules.

We currently provide a diverse selection of giclee gallery wrapped prints, which are perfect for the home or corporate office, and have over 2000 image files for residential and corporate designers to review for current and future projects. The New York Art Collection sells and collects significant works of art, and is committed to assisting our corporate and private clients build and refine art collections that reflect their individual interests. We are frequently able to locate major works of art that meet the needs of our clients.

We provide thoughtful, creative solutions to artwork requirements. Considerable research and time are invested prior to a proposal being developed and presented. Taken into account and investigated are historical ramifications, geographical locale, design sensibilities, and thematic concepts. Esteemed, knowledgeable consultants, qualified to contribute, are retained, assuring authenticity at this level.

From the art program to the accessory package, we achieve an individually customized approach for all areas within the hotel. Fulfilling the designer’s vision and the owner’s expectations, within budget, is our goal, whether it is a luxury facility, a themed environment, a boutique hotel, or an historical renovation.

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New York Street Vendor 16 by 20 inches Oil on Canvas by Hall Groat II

Human Brain with Heart 12 by 24 inches Oil on canvas - Each panel 12 by 12 inches by Hall Groat II

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Ole Hoffstad

“ Walter” 52”x 66” Oil on Linen

Olehoffstad.com

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Lunch in the Park

Logan Bauer LoganBauer.com VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 85

Shirley Anderson Painting Landscapes and Florals in Pastel

Colorful. Sensitive. Bold.

Carol’s Lilies

Over The Falls

I paint from nature and want to capture the beauty of the creations around me. Living in Arkansas for the last ten years has given me ample opportunity to capture on paper my deep and immediate impressions of nature. I have spent the last several years focusing on the vibrant colors seen in the varied landscapes of Arkansas, from the beauty of Garvan Gardens to the roaring water at Collins Creek near Heber Springs to the calm serenity of a moored sailboat at Mt. Harbor. Most of my work is now created on location, which gives me the truest sense of the patterns of light and shadows. Painting plein air also allows me to enjoy all the special places of other states and countries like California and Spain.

shirleyandersonart.com email: sranderson0930@sbcglobal.net

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“Under the Influence of Nature”

Diane K. Hewitt www.DianeKHewitt.com

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Suzy ‘Pal’ Powell SWS WyWS CFAI

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Sharon Hodges

Prairie King Oil on Gallery Canvas 24 x 30

www.SharonHodgesFineArt.com www.SharonHodges.Blogspot.com Dutch Art Gallery.net

BillHesterFineArt.com

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VaL Tarvers

valerietravers.com

theresapaden.com

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artistsof

texas

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ArtistsofTexas.org

“No Where But Texas”

The Dutch Art Gallery - Dallas, Texas

November 2, 2013 through January 11, 2014 Artist Reception and Awards Ceremony VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 93 November 2nd, 11am through 6pm

The Vineyards http://www.kecellarswinery.com/

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Kiepersol Estates Winery

KE Cellars Winery - Rockwall, Texas

http://www.kecellarswinery.com/

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KE Cellars Winery Rockwall, Texas

KE Cellars Winery in Rockwall, is an all-Texas European-style boutique winery. We are proud to sell award-winning Texas wines from all over the state.

KE Cellars Winery has supported the Rockwall Art League since 2011. Each month is a solo art show at the winery for a local artist. The artist will have their art display for a month to view and to sell.

KE Cellars Winery of Rockwall will be sponoring The Artists of Texas 5th Annual Show at the Dutch Art Gallery, November 2, 2013.

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Kiepersol Enterprises is a food and wine destination in East Texas. Our Estate-grown artisan wines are finely crafted to be comfortable to drink, pairing everyday life with the abundance of the earth.

Join us today for an elegant dinner or simply time to rekindle at our restful B&B. Record your sound or let the sounds of nature sink in. Let your passions be ignited at Kiepersol by sharing in our lifestyle.

Downtown Rockwall 301 North San Jacinto Rockwall, TX 75087 972.772.9463 http://www.kecellarswinery.com/

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Beyond the Gate by Kyle Wood 98 | http://DutchArtGallery.net VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

The Dutch Art Gallery The Art of Life Today & Yesterday

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http://DutchArtGallery.net

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The Dutch Art Gallery Dallas, Texas

By Adrienne Balkum

Ben and Ann Massar established the Dutch Art Gallery, Inc. in 1965 after migrating their family from Holland, The Netherlands. The family business was named in honor of their home country.

Ben and Ann wanted to provide a service oriented business that would offer a European flair in the growing Dallas art culture, so they introduced fine art and custom framing to the Metroplex. Over the course of 48 years, the Dutch Art Gallery has been located in the heart of Lake Highlands in the Northlake Shopping Center off of Northwest Highway in northeast Dallas.

In 1990, Ben and Ann made the decision to retire and have their daughter-in-law, Pam Massar, manage the gallery. Now with their passing, their son Hans and his wife Pam continue to operate the gallery now deeply rooted in generations of Lake Highlands families and the Dallas area, still continuing to offer the same excellent customer service and quality fine art inspired by Ben and Ann Massar.

As the art industry evolves with new styles and creative artists, Hans and Pam strive to accommodate all art lovers’ desires. The Gallery continues to present new images, styles and designs, but still holds on to a bit of the European touch and traditional artwork.

The Massar’s have appreciated their loyal customer relationships and friendships formed over the past forty-eight years.

“Whether it is art collecting or custom framing needs, we will strive to provide excellent service for our customers.” Pam Massar.

Above: “LONELY VIGIL” by Dalhart Windberg RIght Page:PORTRAIT OF JENNY was painted by Frank Moss Bennett, English late 19th century and early 20th century and glase painter. He exhibited at the “Royal Academy” and principal “London Galleries”, from 1898 forward. He painted the “Portrait of “Jenny Jerome”, mother of “Sir Winston Churchill”, in 1911. Size of painting is 41.5”x53.5” framed.

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http://DutchArtGallery.net

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Visiting The Dutch Art Gallery is like stepping into yesterday’s humble world, blocking out busy noise, cars and computers. You are immediately surrounded with art. Your senses come alive with imagination. Subtle tones of landscapes beckon you to walk through their moment and spend some time in meditation. Sunsets and waterscapes remind you of a simpler time when you stopped to look at the real thing. Colorful flower paintings seem to emit fragrance as you walk past their brilliant compositions. Animals charge across your path challenging you to engage, while horses call to you to ‘saddle’ up and ride in the wind. European village scenes and Tuscan villas awaken your sense of travel. The Dutch Art Gallery is a place filled with experience and inspiration. http://DutchArtGallery.net 102 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

Featuring highly collectible pieces by Dalhart Windberg, W. A. Slaughter and Porfirio Salinas, the Dutch Art Gallery also displays work by both European and American Artists from the past two centuries and offers a current changing collection of fine art from both local and national artists of today.

In November, the 5th Annual Artists of Texas Show opens and is entitled “No Where But Texas”. It showcases 80 artists, featuring 150 works of art. Entries were open to anyone residing in Texas, as well as AOT members. The Gallery will have all of the accepted pieces framed and displayed through January 11, 2014. Winners will receive a cash prize and for the first time, guests attending the opening will vote on their favorite piece of art, for a People’s choice award. This takes place November 2, 2013 between 11 am and 6 pm. http://DutchArtGallery.net VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 103

VL The Dutch Art Gallery Dallas, Texas

Collectible Paintings from the past two centuries.

WINTER LANDSCAPE by Hendrik Altmann 1838

Judging for the Artists of Texas Show will be based on the overall impact of the work. Our jury panel includes Hans and Pam Massar with Derrill Osborn, Art Collector and Dallas Style Icon. He is a Neiman Marcus legend who influenced fashion, introduced Italian menswear lines and the three-piece suit. After retirement he auctioned his vast bovine collection that was assembled over a lifetime. Mr. Osborn’s passions for interesting themes in art and antiques will be notable to see what his keen eye reveals. Our fourth juror is a former Vietnam Veteran, retired Cardiac Pulmonary Technician and Philanthropist, Tom Russell. When he breaks away from being a lumberjack or gold mining he enjoys expanding his exquisite art collection. We look forward to hearing what our fascinating panel of judges will decide and the details of what significantly captivated them the most.

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BLUEBONNETS by Florent Baecke

CACTUS by Porfirio Salinas

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The Dutch Art Gallery Dallas, Texas

Collectible Paintings from the past two centuries.

COURTING SCENE by Alfred Alboy Rebouet 1875

Right Page: SACRIFICE OF ISSAC by L Baily 1824

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VLThe Dutch Art Gallery Dallas, Texas

For more information about the show, artist demonstrations or custom framing, please contact The Dutch Art Gallery.

10233 East Northwest Highway Suite 420 Dallas, Texas 75238 (214) 348-7350

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Highly Collected Sculptures. The War Party, by Carl Kauba 1860 - 1922. The five figure group depicts an Indian War Party in full charge. Kauba’s detail and action is so strong, any one of these figures could stand alone and not lose perspective. As a group of five, the detail and action are almost overwhelming. The group features Kauba’s rare, polychrome patina, 14” high, 26” long 6 3/4” wide including plinth.

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Dutch Art Gallery

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Chief Wolf Robe by Carl Kauba 1860 - 1922.

Bronze $15,000.

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sallieswiftart.com

www.cfai.co/sallieanneswift

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Sallie-Anne Swift Pushing Boundaries Abstract / Mixed Media Artist

sallieswiftart.com http://www.cfai.co/#!sallie-anne-swift/c97h

sallieswiftart.com

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Lary Lemons

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“Light on the Land”

Plein Air Painting Coming to Montague County, Fall 2013

“Light on the Land - A Plein Air Journey through the North Texas Hills” October 25, 26, & 27, 2013 Saint Jo, Texas The Davis & Blevins Gallery is hosting an exciting Plein Air event. “Light on the Land” a threeday weekend filled with art, painting, food, and fun. Davis & Blevins Gallery has partnered with the Montague County Child Welfare Board (MCCWB) to create the event full of activities and demonstrations designed to show off our beautiful area, show case some amazing artists from all over the country, and raise money for MCCWB’s much needed and valuable projects. The goal is to have this become an annual, area-wide celebration that is recognized by the art community, art lovers, and collectors alike.

Invited and registered artists will be painting en Plein Air Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in, and around, Saint Jo. Listed are some of the invited artists: Nancy Boren, TX; John Cook, TX; Walt Davis, TX; Catherine Eilliot, VT; Gay Faulkenberry, OK; Ann Larsen, NY; John Lasater, AR; Michael Ome Untiedt, CO; Richard Prather, TX; Debob Jacob, TX; Ted Clements, TX; Jason Sacram, AR; V. Vaughn, TX. The public is encouraged to come and enjoy watching the artists as they paint our beautiful rolling countryside.

Davis & Blevins Gallery - 108 S Main Street – Saint Jo, Texas 116 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com 940-995-2786 – info@sjmainstreetgallery.com

Schedule of Events: Friday, Oct 25 12:00 – 4:00 Artists Registration and check in at Davis & Blevins Gallery on the Square in Saint Jo. It is

recommended that you register in advance by calling the Gallery 940-995-2786 3:00pm – 6:00pm Paint-Outs at Arché Winery and Ancient

Ovens Blue Dog Ranch 7:00pm - Demos will be on going and Guest Juror Michael Duty will give a short talk about Plein Air followed by Dinner.

Tickets for the Arché Winery tour and dinner at Ancient Ovens are available. (940-995-2786) There will not be tickets at the door, advance sales only, $50 per ticket. All registration and ticket sales checks must be made payable to Montague County Child Welfare Board.

Saturday, Oct 26: 9:00 – 11:30pm Morning Paint-Outs– beautiful long vistas

-Circle C Ranch off FM2382

-Letoli Ranch on Camp Letoli Road

-Blue Ostrich Winery on FM2382

Maps are available on the web site, or call for directions.

12:00 - Lunch Blue Ostrich Vineyard available from the

Gypsy Kit a food truck from Wichita Falls; 1:00pm – 5:00pm Afternoon “Light on the Land” Exhibition at

the Davis & Blevins Gallery; 5:00pm Evening Gala “Under a Painters Sky “ benefitting

Montague County Child Welfare Board with a Cocktail

Hour during the Quick Draw, Live Music with Michael Hearne and Shake Russell, Dinner and a Live Auction.

Hosted by the Miller Double A Ranch.

Tickets for “Under a Painters Sky “ are available. (940-995-2786) There will not be tickets at the door, advance sales only. $100.00 per ticket. All registration and ticket sales checks must be made to Montague County Child Welfare Board.

Sunday, Oct 27 9:00am - Breakfast at the Lazy Heart Grill in Saint Jo; 10am -1pm - Morning Paint-Out up and down Main Street; 11:00am – 12:00am - Tour of the Historic Phillips Ranch House 900 S Main Street, Saint Jo, TX;

Demos in the Saint Jo galleries all day.

1pm – 6pm Wet Paint Exhibition at the Davis &Blevins Gallery featuring artwork painted during the weekend.

3:00 - Artists’ Awards announced; 5:00pm - Raffle winners announced; 1pm – 6pm Open Wet Paint Exhibition at the Stonewall Museum for all the registered artists.

Local artists are invited to register with Davis & Blevins Gallery and pay a fee to join the Paint-Outs and be part of an Open Wet Paint Exhibition on Sunday, October 27.

For more information, or if you have any questions about the schedule/event, please contact the Davis & Blevins Gallery directly (940) 995-2787. More information can also be found on our website: www.sjmainstreetgallery.com

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Stephanie Wooster Wooster Studios

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http://jonelle-t-mccoy.artistwebsites.com/

Jonelle T. McCoy

VL

Barry Scharf http://scharf62.blogspot.com/

Studio Visit

As artists, we are faced with the dilemma of believing in what is factual and what is belief beyond proof of knowledge, often called faith. Recently comedian Bill Maher said, “Faith is the suspension of critical thinking.” Although humorous it did not sound like a joke, instead it struck a cord of truth that made me began to reexamine some beliefs I simply held in faith.

As I get older questions about death and the afterlife, begin to loom with more relevance then in youth.

I know myself to be a logical person with a good mind and I can stubbornly hold to a position of reason based on experience and factual knowledge. I am neither a psychologist nor an overly religious person, but I have studied much about the connection of the mind, body and soul (spirit).

I know for example that the ego is not the soul but rather a necessary product of the self-aware small mind. It is that part of us that needs what we do not have. Ego is what drives us to achieve more and to strive for gains in the social game of life it is the “Separator”. The ego being self-driven sees what it lacks and wants it. Once it fulfills a desire, it resets the goals on the next need. This process is a cycle of fulfillment and emptiness that has no end. Ego is a necessary part of our survival because of the way we live in the physical world.

On the other hand the soul is our source of connection to each other and all else, it is the “unifier” from which our desire to love flows. The soul holds the view of the big mind and is our emotional compass to knowing right from wrong. We are a duality of ego-centered body and lofted soul consciousness.

Now these are my thoughts of reason based on what I have learned from studied scholars theologians and scientists. I do not profess to have come to this conclusion based solely on my own extensive research. With this as a premise, here are the questions that I raise.

If the ego is a product of our mind-body and it’s fulfillment is driven by need, then how is it possible for it to be part of the soul in death? If it is not … then logic follows there is no self-awareness in the afterlife, right? Which also drives the question of any afterlife at all?

Death is the end of mind-body and the release of spirit back to the source of all things. How can there be judgment of an egoless spirit? Should not it then follow that there is no heaven or self-aware place for our ego to exist in beyond death?

It is my supposition that there is not a white bearded deity out there somewhere sitting on a thrown of judgment that will punish us with unspeakable acts of cruelty if we have not followed religious doctrine. It is however true that others watch our acts of good and evil and we reap what we sow, but it is while we are in life that it applies. We need to come to terms with how we live. Is it in the love of the big-minded spirit or in the need of a small-minded ego? Each of us makes these choices every day sometimes we are good and sometimes we are less the good. Awareness of mindset will determine the outcome of choice. All we can do is to try to be awake and aware of our best self so that the ramifications of our actions affect not only ourselves, but touch everyone in our personal universe that we can inspire, disappoint or just coast in neutral.

I began this dialogue by qualifying myself as an artist and I will leave you by asking “Does your art reflect your ego or your spirit?”

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RICCI VICTORIO

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designbyricci.artspan.com

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CFAI.co Juried Show

CFAI.co Summer Juried Show “Abstraction”

Best of Show

Corey Reier Mancora 2633 http://creierart.com

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First Place

Sunny Marler Implosion http://cfai.co/#!sunny-marler/c1uaq

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CFAI.co Juried Show Second Place

Tracy Lang Treacle http://tracylangstudio.com

Honorable Mentions

Carol Schiff - Wetland http://www.cfai.co/#!show-winners/cyep 126 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

Bob Sheperd- Forget me Knot

Third Place

Robert McFarland April Showers http://www.facebook.com/robert.mcfarland.7509 Honorable Mentions

Rick Heck - Caught Up in the Rapture Amy Bolt - In to the Mystic

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ARTSPAN Artist Spotlight

Interview artspan Artist Melissa Post van der Burg

http://www.mpostvanderburg.com/

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Texas Artist Sharon Hodges in studio.

Melissa Post van der Burg http://www.mpostvanderburg.com/

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ARTSPAN Artist Spotlight

artspan Melissa Post van der Burg When did you realize you loved art and wanted to be an artist? When I was 9 years old, my third grade teacher asked me to be the official class artist—my job was to illustrate the book reports written by my classmates. I loved the responsibility and feeling kind of special because I was actually good at something.

Who has been your mentor, or greatest influence to date? Well, living in Maine, I would have to say Andrew Wyeth, although, sadly, he passed away a few years ago. But his work has been very important to me—especially the fact that he stayed so “close to home” in his subject matter. Many of his models actually grew up in his work. I think Wyeth’s work has given me permission to not stray too far from the images and people I know. And, of course, he set a great example in his work ethic.

Who is another living artist you admire and why? The wonderful Maine painter, Linden Frederick is a great favorite of mine. He has the ability to capture a mood, and then make it hold—that’s very difficult.

What is your favorite surface to create work on or to work with? I love tempered masonite panels when I’m working on paintings 16x20 or smaller—anything larger becomes too heavy. I cut the panels to size, sand them lightly and then gesso them—usually 3 coats of gesso that I tint a steel gray. Then I lightly sand with #400 sandpaper, creating a super-smooth surface.

What are your favorite materials to use? Since drawing was my first love, I would have to say a graphite pencil and a piece of beautiful, creamy white paper. Or gray-toned paper—that’s nice, too.

Do you have a favorite color palette? Yes, and I always set my palette up the same way—it saves so much time when you know where each color is. So, I go around the edge of my palette with: titanium white, ivory black, ultramarine blue, raw sienna, yellow ochre, cadmium yellow, cadmium red light, cadmium red medium, alizarin crimson, burnt sienna, raw umber, burnt umber, sap green.

How often do you paint? I’m lucky enough to be able to work every day, so that’s what I do—a total of 30-40 hours a week. I think of it as a job.

What is the one thing you would like to be remembered for? I would like to be remembered for my head-on, confrontational portraits.

There are many culprits that can crush creativity, such as distractions, self-doubt and fear of failure.

What tends to stand in the way of your creativity? Sometimes I forget that painting is a choice I make every day. I can choose to work through distractions, and in spite of self-doubt and fear of failure. The only thing that really stands in the way is choosing not to work.

What are your inspirations for your work? I find that I am often inspired by film and by opera. When I see or hear something really remarkable, a painting will often begin to formulate in my mind, and then I spend time with that idea. I begin to think about the right model, and creating or finding a setting or location. What props might I need, etc.

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What is your favorite way to get your creative juices flowing? I like to be quiet. There is usually something in my head waiting for expression, but I have to spend some quiet time with it, thinking of the possibilities and various meanings.

Which work of yours is your favorite? A 48”x48” painting called “3 Young Men on Canal Street.” I really loved the guys, who were obviously “gang-bangers” trying to look tough-- but to someone my age, they were just 3 boys hanging out. Plus, I love painting kids on the edge—I think they deserve respect.

Big Winner Oil on Canvas 36 x 36

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ARTSPAN Artist Spotlight

artspan Melissa Post van der Burg

Minus Fifteen Degrees Oil on Canvas 20 x 16

Right Page: Hard Hat Area Oil on Panel 20 x 16 Island Boy Oil on Canvas 36 x 24 http://www.mpostvanderburg.com/ 132 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

Up Close and Personal What is your favorite color in your closet? Teal blue.

What book are you reading this week? “The Year Of Magical Thinking,” by Joan Didion—I’m reading it for a second time.

Do you have a favorite televion show? I don’t actually watch TV per se—I rent movies or watch BBC America from time to time.

What is your favorite food? Split pea soup. (Cooked all day in the crock pot—yum.)

What color sheets are on your bed right now? Goldenrod.

What are you most proud of in your life? My kids. They are each fantastic in their own way.

Who would you love to interview? My mother. She died when I was still pretty young. I think she was the most interesting person I ever knew.

Do you have a passion or hobby other than painting/sculpting? I love to cook, and I read cookbooks as if they were novels.

Who would you like to Paint? Some of the people I see walking around with all their worldly possessions in a grocery cart—they are, themselves, an interesting hodge-podge of color and texture.

If you were an animal what would you be and why? I think I’d be a crow. Crows are incredibly clever and have sophisticated family groups—not to mention, of course, the flying thing.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only take three things, what would they be? A beach chair, a good book and some sun block.

Share something with us that few people know about you. I dream in black and white.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? Monhegan Island, Maine.

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Melissa Post van der Burg

ARTSPAN Artist Spotlight

artspan

Three Young Men NYC Oil on Canvas 48 x 48

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Murray’s Bagel Oil on Canvas 16 x 20

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Kimberly Conrad Contemporary Artist

Into the Forest 40x30x1.5 Acrylic on Canvas http://www.KimberlyConradFineArt.com

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“Pouring Color Into Your Life”

Spring Reflections in the Forest 40x30x1.5 Acrylic on Canvas http://www.KimberlyConradDailyPaintings.blogspot.com

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Diane Whitehead

“Animals are my muse. The scratch of the paw, pounce of a hoof, gesture of the head, alert ear, quiet stride, powerful shape, ancient wisdom. All come to play with the shapes I see as I paint. “ 138 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

richardlevine.artspan.com

DianeWhitehead.com

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VL

artistsof

Š AOT 2009-2014 140 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

texas

Meet the 2013 Master Signature Artists of Texas

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VL Anthony Gonzalez AOT

Master Signature

Anthony A. González, a native of San Antonio, Texas has been painting professionally for the past 30 years. He currently works from his studio located north of San Antonio in the Texas Hill Country. His primary medium is oil with major efforts directed toward the female figure. Each woman has a unique means of displaying attitude and with the use of form, color and costume he attempts to capture this attitude and convey it to the viewer.

Anthony states: “My primary efforts now focus on the expressions, attitudes and body language of women.

I know this can be a challenge but this is what motivates me to paint.”

24x12 “Let’s think that over” Oil / Linen

Obra-de-Gonzalez.com

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Obra-de-Gonzalez.com

12x9 “It’s 12” Oil / Linen

24x 18 “Déjame Ir” Oil /Llinen

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VL Rebecca Zook AOT

Master Signature

“What was it that Dorothy learned? ‘If ever go looking for my heart’s desire again, I won’t look any further than my own back yard.’ Many artists travel far and wide to find inspiration for their work, but I often find the most compelling scenes are truly in my own back yard; a wildflower-filled lot up the street, vultures roosting just off the back deck of the house, or a young boy dressed in costume for a festival.” Rather than focusing on a specific subject matter, Rebecca Zook relies on a high level of detail and a strong sense of light to tie her work together. Viewers often comment that they feel as if they could step into her paintings; as if the frame was a window to another world. She has several successful solo shows under her belt as well as many local and national level awards. In 2011, she was granted Signature Status in the National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society.

“I never made a choice to be an artist. I just always was.” Taking drawing and sculpture classes all through school, Rebecca was fortunate to attend a high school that offered Commercial Art as an elective. This altered her path from fine art to Graphic Design. She received a full academic scholarship to Southern Methodist University in Dallas where she majored in Advertising Art gaining her BFA degree and minored in fine art.

Rebecca has been working as a Graphic Designer for the last 20 years. She turned her attention back to fine art in 2003 focusing on acrylics to express herself in her paintings though still works a full-time day job.

In a recent article in “Granbury Showcase Magazine” Rebecca was asked what she was most proud of about herself. The answer was simple, “It’s that I am a survivor.” She continues, “I have survived...found my inner strength, and still find joy, beauty and love all around me. I came to understand that I can make a difference. We all have that ability. We just have to find our passion.” In 2008, she was diagnosed with a rare genetic immune disease called Hypogammaglobulemia that nearly took her life and requires ongoing treatment with donated human plasma-based medication. In 2011, she faced the death of her husband of 10 years in a traffic accident, and more recently, she has been confronted with a new battle, breast cancer.

Displaying a little of her ‘slightly twisted humor,’ which she credits for retaining her sanity, Rebecca remarried on December 21st, 2012–the day the world didn’t end–to a man who shares her love of animals, of art, of science and understands the emotional and physical pain she has suffered. Together they heal each other.

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Boy of Many Faces

Spring Blanket

Apollo’s Avengers

Boy of Many Faces

RebeccaZook.blogspot.com

Boardwalk

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VL

Jimmy Longacre AOT Master Signature

LongacreArt.com

Jimmy Longacre was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 1947. At an early age his family moved to San Antonio, Texas. Through grade school he filled his notebooks with drawings of Davy Crockett, Superman, cowboys, Indians, horses, Disney characters, airplanes and spaceships, to share with his friends. Longacre graduated from the University of Texas with a Bachelor of Fine Art degree, and then earned a Master of Fine Art degree from Syracuse University. Contrary to the predominant scholastic influence of the day, Abstract Expressionism, Longacre fed his artistic interests on paintings from the Golden Age of American Illustration and the American Impressionists. In following his early passion for these he enjoyed a career as a freelance illustrator and painter for twenty-five years. During part of that time Longacre taught drawing and painting while on the faculty of The University of Texas College of Fine Art. Today, Jimmy is a full time painter and lives with his wife on a hilltop in the Texas hill country, near Dripping Springs. He spends much of his time on frequent outdoor painting excursions gathering the experience and material for his studio compositions. He describes his evolving painting style as Subjective Realism.

January Morning

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Morning Walk

Shady Side

Coastal Get Away

Real Good Barns

LongacreArt.com

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VL David Forks AOT

Master Signature The 6th of 7 children Mr. Forks, was born in San Antonio, Texas in 1957 to a military family. He began a successful career in commercial art shortly after graduating high school. He initially worked and learned production art at River City Studio, owned and operated by San Antonio art legends George Hughey and now notable painter and signature member of PAPA, George Strickland. After River City Studio, he worked as co producer of Southwest Airlines magazine and as illustrator for Concept Enterprises, (the original Koozie company) before venturing off to open his own illustration and design firm.

After 20 years self employed, and the revolution of the digital age, Mr. Forks went to work in the printing industry where he continues today. None of these positions however, fulfilled his real desire to paint. He shelved those aspirations for 30 years while he raised a family of 4 boys finding little to no time to paint along the way.

The untimely passing of an older brother to cancer in late 2006 opened his eyes to the fleeting of time and realization that it was time to make his dream a reality. He now paints on a daily basis in oil and acrylics. His style is ever evolving and varies from very loose and fast to tightly worked pieces. Mainly a landscape painter, he finds inspiration in Gods creations everywhere.

Mr. Forks currently resides in Spring, Texas north of Houston.

West of Marathon 11 x 14 Oil on Canvas

DavidForks.com

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Warm and Cool 8 x 10 Oil on Canvas

Redstone 12 x 16 Oil on Canvas

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VL

Tina Bohlman AOT Master Signature “While it’s important to look ahead and plan for the future, an artist must also remain “in the moment…the now. My “moment” is when I’m working on location. I’ve been an outdoor painter for most of my art career. Nothing compares for inspiration and capturing light and emotion. Plein Air is demanding, physically and mentally. As the light moves, minute by minute across the sky, every stroke must be without hesitation. It’s a marathon race with the sun; spirited, emotional….and exhausting. I love it!”

In a career span of 40 years, this native Texan has earned more than 60 awards to include 4 Best-in-Show and 14 First Place Watercolor. In addition to juror recognitions, she received more than 25 patron’s Purchase Awards and numerous Peoples’ Choice Awards.

Working in both Watercolor and Oil, Ms. Bohlman is a popular guest artist for Dallas/Ft Worth Texas area arts groups.

In addition to a full calendar of plein air events and group exhibitions, she is active in several art associations including Signature membership in Outdoor Painters Society, Artists Of Texas, Contemporary Fine Art International, and International Plein Air Painters. A gifted instructor, she conducts several workshops annually. Ms. Bohlman teaches and mentors advanced students in a weekly all media painting class.

TinaBohlman.com

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Unhinged

Terlingua Creek

Suppertime in Hill Country

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Debbie Grayson Lincoln Texas Contemporary Western Illustrator NoworNever-Debbie.blogspot.com DebbieLincoln.com

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Portrait with Orange Flower

Felicia Marshall signature member AOT

feliciamarshall.blogspot.com

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Meditating Moments.

Mary Jo Zorad ZoradArt.com

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Karen Balon

Carrie Jacobson

Judith Babcock

Palette Knife Artists

Noreen Coup

Ann Gorbett

www.paletteknifepainters.blogspot.com

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Karen Tarlton

Karla Nolan

Marion Hedger

Sharon Hodges

www.paletteknifepainters.blogspot.com

Niki Gulley

Carol Schiff

Nancy Medina

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Lisa McKinney New Media Graphic Art

Old School House

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Lighthouse Point

Lisa-McKinney.com Lisa-McKinney.artistwebsites.com www.lmckinneygraphics.blogspot.com

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VL Photographer Spotlight Romoli Francesco

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http://www.russelaid.com

http://www.saatchionline.com/russelaid

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VL Photographer Spotlight Romoli Francesco

Francesco Romoli was born in Pisa in 1977. Always interested in expressive forms of any type at age 14 he began to study guitar and music theory. He fell in love with computers in 1998 and started to work on hacking and net-art. He graduated in 2004 in Pisa in computer science.

In 2010 Romoli began to use photoshop for his creations, halfway between graphic design and photography, and in 2012 he began studying at the center of contemporary photography Fondazione Studio Marangoni, Florence.

His other passions include skydiving and travel.

“Francesco Romoli, an artist living and working in Pisa, Italy, creates provoking digitally manipulated dioramas constructed out of cardboard with dramatic shadow and lighting effects.”

-eMorfes.com

EXHIBITIONS 2013 OcchiRossi Festival, Roma, Italy 2013 Barcelona Showcase, ufofabrik gallery, Barcelona, Spain 2013 Arte Accessibile – AAM 2013, ufofabrik gallery, Milano, Italy 2013 FSMgallery, portrait photography exhibition, Firenze, Italy 2013 ART BYTE, contemporary art, Verona, Italy 2012 REALfoto pop in exhibition, contemporary art, Pechino, China 2012 NEXT, contemporary art, Verona, Italy 2012 Stop allo 048 degli oggetti, contemporary art, Catania, Italy 2012 Lithium 2.0, Wezoom.it exhibition, Pontedera, Italy 2012 Keithcafe, Pisa, Italy

AWARDS 2013 Trierenberg Super Circuit, Medal Award and GM Special Theme, International 2013 Commended photographer, Sony World Photography Awards 2013, International 2012 Finalist, repubblica.it/Fotografia contest, Roma, Italy 2012 Critics award, wezoom.it contest, Italy 2012

1.st place, People’s Choice, 1XPhoto Awards 2012, Editing, International

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http://www.saatchionline.com/russelaid

http://www.russelaid.com

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VL

Photographer Spotlight Romoli Francesco

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http://www.saatchionline.com/russelaid

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VL Photographer Spotlight Romoli Francesco

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http://www.russelaid.com

http://www.saatchionline.com/russelaid

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CFAI.co Art Challenge

CFAI.co September Art Challenge Best of Show - Terry Honstead http://www.cfai.co/#!challenge-winners/cb0j

Best of Show Lean on Me Terry Honstead

http://terry-honstead.blogspot.com

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First Place Splash Down Sallie-Anne Swift http://sallieswiftart.com

http://www.cfai.co/#!challenge-winners/cb0j

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CFAI.co Art Challenge

Second Place Femme Fatale Carmen Beecher http://carmenbeecher.com

http://www.cfai.co/#!challenge-winners/cb0j

CFAI.co October Art Challenge - “Farms and Barns� - $100 Cash Prize!

Open to all 2D visual artists!

Enter now www.cfai.co/#!art-challenge/chic Painting by Barbara Churchley

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http://www.cfai.co/#!challenge-winners/cb0j

Third Place Madamoiselle Barbara Mason

http://www.dragonflystudiocreations.com

Submit your portfolio to join

Contemporary Fine Art International http://www.cfai.co/#!join-us/cgs0

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VL OilPaintingDVD.com Step by Step Demonstrations

OilPaintingDVD.com

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Hall Groat II

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NO WHERE BUT TEXAS

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THE ARTISTS OF TEXAS

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The Five Graces Lincoln ~ Pace ~ Togel ~ Whitehead ~ Zorad

the5graces.com

Diane Whitehead

Mary Jo Zorad

Laurie Pace

What makes The Five Graces special/unique?

All members of The Five Graces create bold, vividly-colored artworks with an inspirational flair. Several of the group are excellent teachers and writers. They work energetically toward touring exhibitions that showcased their artworks - shows to the US and to Europe. All five artists are spread out over the US. 178 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

Who are The Five Graces?

Debbie Grayson Lincoln (the steady grace), Laurie Justus Pace (the heartbeat grace), Conni Tรถgel (the wired grace), Diane Baird Whitehead (the business-minded, directly spoken grace) and Mary Jo Zorad (the quietly inspired grace) have as many similarities as they do differences. Their artwork demonstrates a common commitment to a high standard of workmanship. To speak with any one of the five women reveals a commonality in what inspires them and how they choose to live their lives, with integrity and a commitment to doing their work for a higher cause. Each feels her creative inspiration as a passionate and natural calling.

thefivegraces.blogspot.com for daily updates

Debbie Lincoln

Conni Togel

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http://davethepaintingguy.com/podcast/

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