About Me

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Gainesville, Florida, United States
Astronomy themes, landscapes and public art are some of the targets of my work. These are the best of times as we stand on the threshold of unprecedented discovery in space. As a space artist, I am grateful for and inspired by the amazing images of faraway places that the great telescopes of our generation have given us. As a plein air painter, I am inspired to quickly capture light, color and movement with the focus on our rapidly changing environment. As an artist within the live public art venue I am inspired by the opportunity for creativity, spontaneity and exchange.

7/1/13

"Painting Historic Gainesville" Plein Air Paint Out

June 1 - 8. Sponsored by the Gainesville Fine Arts Association and the Doris Bardon Community Cultural Center, this event had local and regional artists spread out over the historic Duckpond neighborhood, Pleasant Street district, the Matheson Museum and Sweetwater Park.

Many artists were attracted, myself included, to the charming scenes around the Duckpond. My two paintings, "Duckingham Palace" and "Black Swan" were both quick pieces done on two separate mornings. When moving animals are involved, I work with a pencil to make a quick sketch on my panel then go straight to the paints.  These swan were good models for the most part, resting and staying in the general area.  Once the animals are finished, it is easy to quickly fill in the background.

The historic Matheson House, surrounded by lush Sweetwater Park, was another favorite target during the event.  Most of the artists chose to paint the more picturesque views of the front entrance and the northern side view.  I too painted a classic view of the front, but I found a more challenging subject from a unique perspective in the mysterious southern view. More and more, I'm learning that a good painting is all about the emotional exchange between the artist and viewer. It helps to engage the viewer by telling a story...and everyone loves a good mystery!  The Matheson House, built in 1867, is the second oldest surviving building in Gainesville and was continuously occupied by the Matheson family for 120 years.

The art produced at the paint was celebrated with opening and closing receptions and an extended exhibition at The Doris.