Friday Feature: Carol Marine

Hi Everyone,

"Coy Cherries" by Carol Marine

I am so excited that my first Friday Feature for 2014 and is none other than the legendary Carol Marine.  Carol first caught my attention when I read that she had started daily painting while her son was napping.  Being in a similar predicament it gave me inspiration.  Carol's daily paintings have turned into a creative outlet to a full time job.  Not only does she paint daily is also highly in demand for workshops and her and her husband David started Daily Paintworks site.  She is a true inspiration and her art is phenomenal.

To see more of her work visit her blog,  Facebook page,  website and daily paintworks gallery

"Piled in a Corner" by Carol Marine

How did you get your start?  What’s your artist journey so far?

I always loved to draw and paint. I went to college for it because I couldn’t think of a single other thing I wanted to do with my life. Unfortunately I didn’t learn much in school because the professors were far more concerned with the concepts and politics behind the art than any actual skills or techniques. I was lucky enough to marry the man of my dreams my last year of school, and he supported me while I got my career going. We adopted our son in 2005 and I heard about the daily painting movement 1 ½ years later. It made so much sense for me to do one small painting each day during my son’s nap, and eventually I started selling them from my blog. I’ve been doing that, and teaching about daily painting, ever since.

"A Little Light" by Carol Marine

Where were you born?

I was born in Sheridan, Montana, but my parents moved to Harper, Texas when I was two. I don’t remember Montana except from subsequent visits there.

If you could live anywhere where would you live?

In Eugene, Oregon, which is where we live now! We moved here two years ago after our house in Texas burned down. Best move we ever made!

What’s your favorite thing to paint and why?

I don’t know that I could pin this down to just one thing. It changes from day to day. Right now I am most intrigued by painting people, though it’s probably what I am currently worst at.

"Cowabunga" by Carol Marine

Could you talk about your painting techniques?  

I think if I had to give my style a name it would be painterly realism. I prefer to paint alla prima (all in one go, OR wet into wet), whether large or small. I paint from life as much as I can, but use photos when it is more convenient.

Do you have go-to paints/colors, what are your favorites?

I use a limited palette. For most paintings I use titanium white, cadmium yellow light, cadmium red medium, alizarin crimson, ultramarine blue and burnt umber. Sometimes I’ll add in cadmium yellow lemon, permanent rose and phthalo blue.

Do you have a favorite artist?  Who has been your biggest inspiration?

This one is also incredibly tough to pin down. My first love was John Singer Sargent. I’m also a big fan of Normal Rockwell. A few living favorites are: Jill Carver, Jennifer McChristian, Karin Jurick, Susan Lyon, Julian Merrow Smith, Colin Page … I could go on and on.

"Straight Up Egg" by Carol Marine

What have been some of your crowning achievements?

Marrying my best friend, adopting the most wonderful kid in the world, and oh yeah, being asked by Random House to write a book about daily painting (available in the fall of 2014), teaching sold-out workshops, starting www.dailypaintworks.com, and being able to make a living doing the thing I love most.

What are five things you would like to happen in your life in the next five years? Dream big here:)

My life is pretty perfect right now, but I would love to start TAKING more workshops rather than just teaching them. Specifically I would like to learn more and get better at painting landscapes and people.

What is your advice for other artists who are just getting started in their career?

Paint every day.

What is the best advice that you have received as an artist?

Paint every day.

"Fancy Shoes" by Carol Marine

SPEED ROUND!

Chocolate or vanilla?

Vanilla

Your dream vacation spot?

Big Bend National Park

Book or movie?

Either, depending on the mood

Favorite author?

Nevada Barr

Favorite movie?

Garden State

Romance or comedy?

Romantic Comedy

Favorite dessert?

All of them

Night owl or morning person?

Morning

Thank you Carol:)

Friday Feature: Diane Hoeptner

Hi Everyone,

"Perfect Storm "by Diane Hoeptner

Today I bring you a feature from the amazing Diane Hoeptner.  I have been a fan of her works ever since found her blog a few years ago.  I love the patterns in her backgrounds and the masterful handling of her subjects whether it's a still life, a cat, a dog, or a person, she can do it all!

To see more of her work visit her blog, website and facebook page.
You can also check out her videos as well.

How did you get your start?  What’s your artist journey so far?

I can't remember exactly...I've had a few times around as an "artist" in different venues.  I spent a several years doing 3D modelling and animation as a digital artist in LA.  I've worked more than a few art-related jobs.  My best start was latching onto the daily painters movement and learning (again in my 40s) to paint in oils.  ...and I know I sound old but it's true:  The advent of the internet allowed me to share in a way that was nothing short of miraculous.

Where were you born?

Portland, ME

"Daffodils on Pattern" by Diane Hoeptner

If you could live anywhere where would you live?

My husband and I (mostly my husband) bought and fixed an old motor boat.  It's nothing fancy, but lately I'm obsessed with boating and all things water. To live in a home on the water's edge with a dock would be the bee's knees.

What’s your favorite thing to paint and why?

I keep coming back to floral still lifes...and my cats.  It's a tie.  Flowers are cheap and available models and they offer an abundant variety of color and compositional options. The same can be said for our cats but they present a further dimension of personality that begs exploration...  I enjoy painting animals in general, want to do more of that.

"Daisies on Gray" by Diane Hoeptner

Which of your paintings was the most enjoyable to paint? Which was the most difficult?

The most enjoyable paintings are the ones that sort of fall into place, where my initial attraction to something corresponds with my ability to convey it.  ("Perfect Storm" It's an oldie but it was one of the first times I was able to paint yellow and gray exactly like how I wanted.) Paintings that sell (!) get extra points for enjoyment.  LOL.

The most difficult paintings:  human portraits are the most difficult.

Do you have a favorite artist?  Who has been your biggest inspiration?

Jeremy Lipking, Tiina Heiska, Bryce Liston, Johanna Harmon, Juliette Aristides, Daniel Gerhartz, Sally Strand, David Hettinger, Sarah Blumenschein and Carlo Russo.  My biggest inspiration and one of my all time favorite artists is Chase Chen who I knew when I lived in Los Angeles.

What are some of your favorite things or things that are essential to your well being/success as an artist?

1) Long uninterrupted hours in my studio 2) Sales

"Nasturtium" by Diane Hoeptner

Do you have go-to paints/colors, what are your favorites?

Burnt umber, I use it in every painting.  It's not always the greatest or most "glamorous" color and that's something I'm working on.

Do you ever get artist’s block? And what do you do to overcome it?

Yes.  Making art is a such a personal thing and when you aren't feeling it, it's very bad.  I try not to think of it as getting "blocked." Art is my livelihood, so there's that. If I was a teacher or a fire fighter, I wouldn't have the luxury of "taking time off" and I try to apply that approach to making art.  The most effective way to overcome it is to soldier on and make art anyway. However, when I'm really in a slump-- I find myself doing oft neglected marketing and tweaking my online presence.  That can sometimes kick me back into gear.  Switching out subject matter, media of choice and trying something new is also helpful.

"Alter Ego" by Diane Hoeptner

What are five things you would like to happen in your life in the next five years? Dream big here:)

1) A bigger studio

2) More travel to far away places 

3) More freedom to explore different subjects

4) My blog will get as much traffic as the Huffington Post

5) I would love to collaborate with other artists on themed shows.

"Dragon Cat" by Diane Hoeptner

What is your advice for other artists who are just getting started in their career?

Make a lot of art and keep doing it.  Try a lot of things, keep doing the ones that work.  Remember it is valuable to find out when things don't work because you'll know not to do them again (or alternately tweak and try again.)  Don't wait for your muse, keep regular hours. Learn how to accept rejection so you're not too put out when it happens.   If they are introverted, they should buy my .99 e-book "A Guide for the Introverted Artist."  

"Tyson" by Diane Hoeptner

What is the best advice that you have received as an artist?

My friend Chase used to tell me to just "make more" and "don't be so precious." Andy Warhol said it very well:  “Don't think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it's good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.”

"Russy" by Diane Hoeptner

SPEED ROUND!

Chocolate or vanilla?

Vanilla

Sunny beach or rustic mountain retreat?

Sunny beach

Book or movie?

Movie

Favorite author?

Barbara Kingsolver

Favorite movie?

Leon:  The Professional

Romance or comedy?

Comedy

Favorite ice cream flavor?

Chocolate/Peanut butter

Night owl or morning person?

Morning

Cake or Cupcakes?

Cupcakes

Thank you so much Diane:)

Friday Feature: Carolyn McDonald

Carolyn M

Today my Friday Feature is Carolyn McDonald.  I have been enjoying her paintings during the 30 in 30 challenge.  

To see more of Carolyn's work visit her facebook page and website

What made you decide to participate in the 30 in 30 challenge?

  I had been in a slump after my car accident and I knew that the advice Leslie Saeta gives is true.  So, I decided it would be good for me to publicly announce that I was going to do the challenge.  

What have you learned so far painting every day for the challenge?

I have learned several things from painting 30 paintings in 30 days.  1) Just paint the shapes; it all makes sense at the end; 2) Mix all the paint left over each day and use the gray in the next day painting; 3) How to loosen up strokes and keep the harder edges where I want emphasis; 4) New color combinations; 5) I have a wealth of subject matter in my classroom; 6) Painting student's feet is a great way to connect with them.

Did you have a theme in mind when you started?  What was your plan of attack for the challenge?

I decided to paint portraits at first, but I was painting large and found out quickly that I would not get to keep up with the challenge. I moved to an old theme, bow ties, because my gallery in Nashville asked that I paint more bow ties for the gallery.  While looking at the collection I realized that the neck/tie composition was unique and asked myself what other body part I could paint that would be interesting.  I found an old photo of a student in high heels and realized that was my next move.  It has been successful and I plan to do more.  Next, I looked at the portraits I had done and cropped in on one, immediately recognizing the possibilities. It never fails, painting everyday improves the quality of my work.  For now, I plan to continue the shoes and cropped faces.  Personally, those bring the most joy!

Thank you Carolyn for your interview:)  Can't wait to see the last 5 paintings:)

Carrie

Friday Feature: Dottie T Leatherwood Day 13/30

Today's Friday Feature is Dottie T. Leatherwood.  Dottie is doing a phenomenal job with the 30 paintings in 30 day challenge so I wanted to share her works with you:)   Dottie also shared some insights about participating in the challenge.

To see more of Dottie's works or to purchase a painting visit her website, blog and Facebook

1. Why did you decide to do the challenge?  Because Leslie made me....just kidding.  I enjoy a challenge and I wanted to have some new fresh work to head into the end of this year.  I also knew it would keep me on track with all of the distractions that the kids going back to school and sports would bring.  AND...I made a commitment last month on AHA to blog more and I knew this would help!

 

2.  What have you learned so far from painting every day?  I usually paint every day anyway but having to produce a new painting to post on my blog everyday is another story indeed!  I have learned that I like starting on a canvas that is already toned to save time.  And I also learned, I don’t like taking pictures of wet paintings....the glare drives me crazy! 

 

3.  Do you have a theme, what was your plan of attack for painting 30 paintings? I wanted to give myself the option to paint bigger daily paintings, not just small ones, since I don’t enjoy working small.  So far I have done everything from a 24x24 to an 8x8 and all sizes in between.   Also, after painting for shows and working on commissions all spring and summer, I wanted to take a break and refuel my creativity.  I chose to paint from my sketches and pictures from trips I have taken in the past... you know all those things you want to paint but never have the time.  I looked through all my material and decided on some subjects so I would know what I was painting everyday when I got into the studio.  I also have about 3 paintings going at once to take some of the pressure off. 

 

Thanks Carrie...happy painting!

Here are my paintings for this week so far.  Visit my website for availability

Friday 30/30 Feature: Barbara Davis and Day 6/30 French Faces

"A is for Apple by Barbara Davis

"For the Boys of Summer" by Barbara Davis

"Wake Cup" by Barbara Davis

"A Good Dog" by Barbara Davis

"I'm Broke"  by Barbara Davis

It's Friday Feature time!  Since I'm participating in the 30/30 painting challenge hosted by Leslie Saeta, I decided to feature a fellow 30/30 participant.  Today I have Barbara Davis.  I just love her work and I thought her first 5 paintings have been spectacular.  I asked Barbara a few questions about doing the challenge for todays interview.

To see more of her work or to purchase her paintings visit her website, blog and facebook page

"I decided to do the challenge in September because I did it in January and it was a great experience.  At the end of the month, I was amazed at what I had accomplished and it was so good to really push myself.  I ordinarily do paint every day...or about 95% of them....but it's different to make that commitment to do it without fail.  I realized in January that knowing I'll be posting it on Facebook, on Leslie's blog and on my blog when I'm done pushes me to work harder to come away with a piece each day that I'm happy with and proud to show.  They certainly don't all turn out that way, but that goal is always before me".
 
"This time I decided to work through the alphabet.  I remember Karin Jurick did this a few years ago on her blog and I loved it and always thought it would be fun.  Knowing though that there are only 26 letters and we have 30 paintings to do, my plan is to finish up the month with four 'apple' paintings to celebrate this 'back-to-school' month and 'apple time'!"
 
"At this point, I'm five days in.  I have already learned that most every single time, I think my painting is a scraper.  I think there's no way I will be able to pull it off and make it something.  I try to spend at the most about two hours on the daily painting because I have some commissions I'm trying to finish.  So, a little panic sets in.  Time is slipping by.  I envision everyone posting these great paintings and I come up with absolutely nothing for the day.  I keep on working, though, and slowly it starts to come together and hope is restored.  So my BIG lesson is to stay positive and every painting has an ugly stage, so don't let it get to me! " 
 
"I want to thank Leslie for the challenge and for inspiring all of us and I thank you, Carrie, for introducing me to Leslie and Artists Helping Artists when we first met a few years ago.  It's been a great help to me! :)  
Happy Painting to all of the participating artists!"

Thank you so much Barbara!

I'm also going to share my 6th painting and the last of the French Faces, on to another theme next week.  

French Faces:  Andre original watercolor by Carrie Waller 5" x 7" on sale $40  Buy Now
reg price $75

Meet Andre, he is the 4th brother.  Andre decided to go his own way and is not part of the Canarde Dynastie family business.  How was he supposed to know his bearded brothers would become a phenomenon.  Now he' wondering how he can get in on all those endorsement deals.  Poor guy has a baffled look on his face, you know what your Mom always said, "Be careful the faces you make because it might freeze that way".

For today only I'm offering all of my French Faces on sale for $40.  Tomorrow the price will go back to the regular price of $75.

"French Faces, Jacques" original watercolor by Carrie Waller 5" x 7" sale price $40 Buy Now,  reg price $75

"French Faces, Philippe" original watercolor by Carrie Waller 5" x 7" sale price $40 Buy Now, reg price $75

"French Faces, Jerard" original watercolor by Carrie Waller 5" x 7" sale price $40 Buy Now, reg price $75

"French Faces, William" original watercolor by Carrie Waller 5" x 7" sale price $40 Buy Now, reg price $75

"French Faces, Cyrano" original watercolor by Carrie Waller 5" x 7" sale price $40 Buy Now, reg price $75

Friday Feature: Nancy Rhodes Harper

"Lavender Heels" original work by Nancy Rhodes Harper

Nancy Rhodes Harper grew up in a  small town in the Ozark Mountains surrounded by paint and brushes in her fathers sign shop.  She started painting at a very early age.  Continuing to study in school she received a BA degree in Art Education from the University of Central Arkansas.  After marriage, and completion s of Nancy's husbands Phd in Physics from Auburn graduate school, the couple landed in Huntsville, Alabama.  Nancy continued to paint and grow as an artist while working in interior design, sign painting and freelancing as an artist.  After raising a son with the support of her husband and family Nancy decided to pursue painting full time.  Using bold color, lush descriptive brushstrokes and very often whimsy she sets about doing what she loves painting everyday.   She creates whimsical women in everyday settings with exaggerated features such as elongated hands, arms, unusual faces and long lean bodies with wonderful color.  Her work is collected in many states across America and can be found in the Atelier Gallery, Charleston, SC, Nelson Fine Art Gallery, Wilmington, NC and  in Art in Miniature in Tubac, AZ.

To see more of her work visit her website, blog and facebook page

How did you get your start? What’s your artist journey so far?

My father was a sign painter so I had access to art supplies at a very young age. I started drawing and using pastels around the age of 5. I knew I wanted to pursue art and nothing else from that time on. I drew constantly and had my first art class experience in high school . After that, I went to college and while I only wanted to do studio work in order to continue school I had to get a degree in art education so I could get a student loan. I continued to paint in watercolor doing portraits and fashion illustration with a few shows. Following my husband as he worked on his Phd. there was little opportunity for further study for me as I worked in non art related jobs, with no internet and a small family budget. Raising our son like many other women my art was put aside for many years. Once he was grown I began work as a daily painter just for myself. That is when I started painting in oil exclusively. Taking many workshops with internationally known artists. I focused on plein air but knew that was not my love. My love had always been painting women and putting them in fashion that I liked. I made the decision only 2 years ago to stop painting anything but women, that I call my "ladies".

Where were you born?

I was born in Berryville, Arkansas a very small town in the heart of the Ozark Mountains.

If you could live anywhere where would you live?

I often think of moving and living in other places but I suppose if I had my choice, I would live in Eureka Springs, Ar. that is where I am the happiest and I draw greg energy from being there.

"Traffic Stopper" original work by Nancy Rhodes Harper

What’s your favorite thing to paint and why?

My favorite things to pant are women either portrait type or full figures, To me making up a face, a body position, putting the character in any setting I choose, is complete freedom as a painter. They belong to me they are in my mind.

Could you talk about your painting techniques?

I like to paint large and small. I usually begging with a quick sketch in oil on the canvas or panel. I very rarely do a preliminary sketch. I do use references at times for body positions or what a piece of furniture looks like or search for an usual pattern in a fabric but over all I make the composition up in my head and not from life. Everyone should paint from life at some point but now I find it frustrating as I can paint a person doing exactly what I want without having to pose someone. I often exaggerate things like necks, hands, legs, facial features.

"Purple Poppy" original work by Nancy Rhodes Harper

Do you have go-to paints/colors, what are your favorites?

I tend to gravitate toward very cool colors and rarely will I do a warm color painting, although I am trying to get better at that. I love pinks, lavenders, soft blue greens. I then add touches of yellows and oranges and I am always aware of using complimentary colors for harmony.

Do you have a favorite artist? Who has been your biggest inspiration?

My favorite artist at the moment is Milt Kobayashi and I have been privileged to study

with him and call him a friend. Also when I was younger Andrew Wyeth was a huge inspiration. But now Milt is my favorite by far.

"If The Hat Fits Wear It" original work by Nancy Rhodes Harper

What have been some of your crowning achievements? 

I have won awards and sold paintings but truly not one thing stands out to me other than being accepted in fine art galleries. To me that was a goal I worked hdd to achieve.

What are five things you would like to happen in your life in the next five years? Dream big here:)

In the next five years I would like to go to Paris and Italy continue to study with Milt Kobayshi every year. Hopefully continue to find success in new art galleries and perhaps even make a little more money doing what I love.

"Striped Pajamas" original work by Nancy Rhodes Harper

What is your advice for other artists who are just getting started in their career?

 If I had the opportunities offered today with the internet and the many varied accomplished artists etching through workshops I would skip college and use the money to study with as many as I could afford. I would draw and paint as many hours as I could manage and never stop. I would not let anyone stand in my way with opinions about my work. You have to believe in yourself more than anyone else does and study all of the time. You will never learn all there is to know. Be open to new possibilities. Paint for your joy and love of it.

What is the best advice that you have received as an artist? 

I am a stubborn person, When I was 5 I entered an art contest drawing a picture of Emmet Kelley the clown. My work was refused because they didn't fell I had really done the work myself. That had a huge impact on me and from then on I had something to prove, that I could do the work, I could be noticed and they would not stop me. It turned out that little bit of criticism by a teacher, someone who wasn't even qualified to just an art contest was my best inspiration. So I would say it really wasn't advice it was a personal drive. When I grew older I thrived on my work and loved it so much I didn't care I just wanted to paint for myself. To this day I don't really care for entering art competitions as they are judged by the opinions of others which doesn't really matter to me. It is nice to be recognized and appreciated by wards don't drive me. I drive me and my love of the work.

"Twilight Indeed" original work by Nancy Rhodes Harper

SPEED ROUND!

 Chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate

Your dream vacation spot? Big Sur, Ca.

Book or movie?
Movie

Favorite author?
I hate to read...eek.

Favorite movie? Being There starring Peter Sellers

Romance or comedy?
Both

Favorite dessert?
Blackberry Cobbler

Night owl or morning person? Morning Person 

Thank you so much Nancy:)