Ken Swinson Blog

No longer Using Blogger

2010-01-28T08:21:00.000-08:00

Folks, I am sorry, but my blog has moved to my website:

visit: http://www.kenswinson.com

for my latest news/blog posts

thanks

Ken

5 art shows in 10 days!

2009-05-24T06:17:00.000-07:00

What was I thinking! I overbooked myself…but I hate to miss a fun art show. Sorry if I haven’t been up to date with my phone calls, email and website, but here is what I have been up to.

May 8, Show 1 –Maysville Art Walk, Tromp + Trolley

I was responsible for much of the organization for this show…and was busy for at least a solid month getting everything ready. We did our best to organize the artists, market the show, and encourage people to come.

Unfortunately, the weather was not on our side. Promptly, when the show started at 5pm, the skies turned a dark grey, bringing a heavy downpour. Regardless, the art loving public came out to enjoy a soaking wet evening of art.

I was surprised how much work is involved in organizing an art show…and I have a whole new appreciation for the hard work that goes into these events.

May 9, Show 2 – Burlington Sidewalk Chalk Festival

I packed my art, and took it to Burlington, KY for their Sidewalk Chalk Festival the very next day. I don’t have experience with chalk, but thought it would be fun…it was.
Instead of arriving with a plan of what I would draw, I arrived early to walk around Burlington and get a feel for the charming historical town. I did a few sketches of its old federal buildings (including the Tousey House Tavern, on the left) and magnificent courthouse. With the sketches as my guide, I blindly created my chalk painting.

Afterwards, I enjoyed an amazing dinner at the Tousey House Tavern with my wonderful hosts, Butch and Mary Ann Wainscott. (Notice the fine artwork hanging behind me)

May 10, Show 3 – Duveneck Art Show In Covington

The next day was the Duveneck Art show in Covington. I was surprised by my good friends Greg+Mica Darley-Emerson who showed up early with breakfast.
It was a beautiful show, I was lucky to have setup with a riverside view.

May 16, Show 4 – Mayslick Asparagus Festival

I painted frantically in the night to finish my painting for Mayslick’s Asparagus Festival. The festival has an indoor art show/competition inside a beautiful church, and then artists also have outdoor displays to accompany the “All Things Asparagus” festival.

The rain was off and on, but nothing got damaged, and the food was awesome. I had asparagus quiche, asparagus salad, asparagus cornbread, and an asparagus brownie for dessert.

It turns out I have a lot of friends in Mayslick! My painting won the “People’s Choice Award” in the Art contest.

May 17, Show 5 – Wyoming Art Show

My final show was the Wyoming Art Show. Located in a vibrant community that love the arts…I was impressed with the organization for the show. As an artist, it was a pleasure to participate. The weather was perfect, and the attendance was great.

Epilogue

The next day, I packed my kayak, and enjoyed a trip with Jim Lally and friends down the Elkhorn creek…a fast moving and exciting ride with great rapids and riffles. After a few days rest, I took some time on my bicycle for sketching and sunshine. It feels great to have some time to be an artist again.

Thank you to all the kind folks who organized, helped,participated and attended these fun shows. Especially Mike Cowden, who is as crazy as me, and helped me setup/breakdown all 5 shows! I owe you big time

2009-05-06T21:09:00.000-07:00

A great idea came out of the Ohio River Valley Artist Guild Blog. We are going to create a chalk mural on the great blank canvas of a floodwall that is at the corner of WALL street and FRONT street. (next to my studio) The event will take place on May 8th from 5-9pm as part of the Maysville Art Walk, Tromp+Trolley and all children between the ages of 1-100 are invited to participate!

It will be a great opportunity for me to practice my chalk drawing skills, because the very next day in Burlington, KY, I will participate in the Burlington Sidewalk Chalk Festival. I have no experience in chalk art, but my good friends Butch and Mary Ann at the Tousey House in Burlington offered me a meal at their wonderful restaurant. I can't sing for my supper, but I will gladly make a chalk drawing! The event is Saturday, May 9th from 9am-6pm. I have an ambitious idea, you will have to come and see how it turns out!

I have been very busy getting ready for Friday's art walk...¦along with other important projects. I have not been making much art, and when I don't make art, it's like a psych patient not getting their medicineâ€¦ So found some time to do a large drawing with charcoal and chalk on paper. It's titled "What I would Rather Be Doing"

I am very much in love with this painting. When i finished it, I spent at least an hour gazing at it with a big grin.

www.kenswinson.com

here's some of what you missed last week

2009-05-03T17:59:00.000-07:00

I’m running behind on my updates…here’s some of what I was doing last week!

I took a handful of photographs of our local artists for the Tromp + Trolley website

Joe Brannen At His Workshop

Photographer, Tom Ross

Planted a tree for Earth Day

Attended a Kiln opening at the Artisan Center At Maple Creek,
and sketched a “Kiln Opening” idea for a painting
Stopped at at Bromwell’s in Cincinnati,to see my good friend Pam Wiseman’s Artwork.

And had my socks knocked off by the clay artwork of Tracey McClorey .

Then finished the evening catching up with the artists at the Pendleton Art Center.

I’m busy getting ready organizing our upcoming art show in Maysville, but hope to get everyone up to date with one more blog post, so stay tuned.

and, If your looking for a good opportunity support the arts and buy a Ken Swinson original on the cheap…follow this link

A Special Offer

2009-05-02T18:50:00.001-07:00

Hi all, it's been a long winter, and good opportunities come from difficult times .

I usually keep my sketchbooks in tact, but I have torn a few pages from my book, and matted them to fit a 8"x10" frame.

I have signed the front and back of each Sketch

I want to sell them for $25 each (I will pay shipping)

If you are looking for a truly unique gift, or a little original work of art to add to your collection, this is a great opportunity for you.

View the sketches here: http://www.kenswinson.com/specialOffer1.htm

First come, first served...so if you see something you want, send me an email or give me a phone call: 606.217.2106

thanks
ken

running a week late - opening at doodles gallery

2009-04-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

sorry folks, Itâ€™s been a busy week, and I havenâ€™t been so good at keeping my posts up to date. I am a little better at posting on facebook, so if you are on that network, hereâ€™s the link to my profileâ€¦add me as a friend!

Iâ€™ll get caught up, but a lot has happened, so get ready for a handful of posts in the couple of days.

OK, hereâ€™s what happened last weekâ€¦

Last week was the 6â€x6â€ and 12â€x12â€ show opening at doodles gallery in Flemingsburg. Brenda Flynn, artist and gallerist, was a great hostess to a fun group of local artists, includingâ€¦

Betsy Baltzer, with her beautiful cats in interference acrylic (the 2 cats in the red chair are my cats, Fido and Rover)

Mike Wagner, with his country style oil paintings

Stephen Hayes and his film photography (darkroomâ€¦not photoshop)

Jennifer Beckett and her musical acrylic paintings (newly moved to the area from Tennessee)

Allen [I need his last name]â€™s whimsical, mini-mouse sculptures.

Stretching Canvas And Eating Asparagus

2009-01-02T17:01:00.001-08:00

I am working on a large painting project, and wanted to make my own stretchers for the canvas.

It is a lot of extra work, but it is satisfying to have a canvas stretched with tacks instead of modern staples.

Makes an artist feel like one of the early 20th century painters...well, with power tools!

I also had a beautiful plate of asparagus for lunch. Food's always better when eaten off local pottery!

Press Release

2008-03-21T06:56:00.000-07:00

You are missing out! I have moved my blog to www.kenswinson.com. Go there to see this post's full features!

I have decided to schedule my public opening with a "Gallery Hop" style event happening at the same time as a big opening at the Maysville Museum Center. The event is on April 7th, from 6-9pm.

I had a very hard time writing a description of my work for the press release. Brooke Shaffner, Artcroft's current writer-in-residence offered to write my press release for me, and WOW!!!

Here it is...

PRESS RELEASE

Ken Swinson’s Studio

As part of the event, Ken Swinson’s brand new art studio at 120 W. Front Street will be open to the public. Ken recently spent 30 days at the Artcroft Creative Residency Center, which offers unfettered time and studio space for creative immersion to emerging artists and writers. Inspired by Artcroft’s picturesque pastoral setting and the daily wonderment of farm life (including assisting in the delivery of three baby goats), Ken created a series of vibrant oil and oil-pastel paintings portraying the Artcroft farm and its environs. Rendered in a whimsical, folk art fashion, these paintings joyfully depict rolling ridgelines, full moons rising, crow-filled trees, hay bales, snow-covered fields, baby chicks, and families of goats. This is Ken’s only show this season, so don’t miss the magic! 10% of all sales from his series will be donated to the Artcroft Foundation.

For more information:
www.kenswinson.com
www.artcroft.org

Busy Week

2008-03-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

Your missing out!!! I have moved my blog to www.kenswinson.com go there to read this post with all the features!

Moving has been hard work, but I am feeling settled in my new home/studio.

I like living in town by the river. Now, when I run, follow the river from my studio to the 'new' bridge that crosses the Ohio river. Then I follow the river to the 'old' bridge which returns me to downtown Maysville. It's a 7.3 mile loop without any loose dogs. I do have to pay attention to cars though.

Last week, I pretended to be a waiter at The Beehive Tavern in Augusta, KY. I took a break from helping feed the folks long enough to enjoy a beautiful sunset on the Ohio River.

I wanted to store some of my dusty pottery equipment to Artcroft so the equipment can get some use. Robert was nice enough to meet me in Maysville and carry 2 kilns, my kickwheel and other ceramic materials to Artcroft.

Here's a photo of my housemate (Mike) with Robert and the stocked truck...never mind the tornado damage in the background.

I never found my framing tape, so I had to drive to Cincinnati and buy some at the framing supply. I needed mattboard anyway, and a friend needed a ride to the hospital, so I was able to get a few things done in one trip. While at the frame supply, I was browsing their frame moulding, and thought I would buy a few styles of moulding.

Until now, I have made my own moulding from rough lumber. It is very time consuming, but I take a lot of pride in having made the frame and moulding. I think the commercial moulding has a very nice look...and it sheds HOURS off my workload.

What do you folks think? The moulding on the left is my moulding, and on the right is a frame made with the commercial moulding.

Today, I went to the Ohio River Guild Meeting, then worked on some of my clay sculptures. It felt good to get muddy. I have been so busy moving and framing, that I have almost forgot what it is like to do creative work!

Sorry for taking so long to post anything new...I just got my internet turned on at home. Keep visiting my site, I will have some new work to show soon!

Artcroft Day 14

2008-02-17T22:46:00.002-08:00

please go to www.kenswinson.com for the full featured version of this post.

Sunday is the day I go into town and do my laundry.

I went to Maysville to have a look at my newly aquired art studio/web design office. I had agreed to renting it over the phone. My home/studio was damaged during the tornado storms last week, and I have a friend who was getting ready to rent a space in her building in downtown Maysville...it seemed like a match brought together by the cosmos. The space was very comfortable, and I know it is going to make a great workspace.

I did my laundry, had lunch with friends, did some grocery shopping, then headed back to Artcroft. The winds were picking up and the sky had a beautiful light and interesting pattern of clouds. I was anxious to get back to Artcroft, but had to stop long enough to take this picture.

After dinner, we bottle fed the baby goats and hoisted Shirley up so she could get used to standing on her feet. She is still very weak from the birth.

She is eating and drinking, and has a good demeanor (as always), but her legs are too weak to support herself. It is important that she be able to stand on her feet so that she can feed the babies, but also for her recovery. I hope tomorrow she gets up and gets to walk around.

I showed Angela my studio after feeding the babies. She is from New York City, but has some country in her, so she's alright with me. She understood the idea of composting banana peels, and wasn't too prissy to sit in the hay and feed baby goats. She noted a few times with amusement that her city boots had mud on them. I have a feeling that her boots are going to have good fun out in the country. Can you imagine being a boot, and not getting to step in a muddy puddle? I have been the only resident for the last 2 weeks, and it was really nice to sit in my studio and talk about art, the artist's life, and those other things that artist's like to gab about.

This experience as an artist-in-residence has been awesome. I can tell that I am making some important developments as an artist. I'm sorry that I can't express them very well with words right now. It's been a long day, and I am so tired that I accidentally erased one of the sketches that I wanted to share with you all. Thanks again everyone who has been so supportive through your comments and emails. I want to personally reply to everyone, but I am not very good at finding the time to write the letters...I do read the comments and appreciate everyone's kindness and friendship.

peace
ken

Artcroft Day 12

2008-02-15T21:29:00.000-08:00

please go to www.kenswinson.com for the full-featured version of this article:

Sorry folks, I don't have any pictures of my latest/greatest today.

Yesterday, I hit a creative wall, so I was eager to get my mind off art and help Robert with some construction work to prepare Angela's studio. (she arrives tomorrow).

After finishing the work on the studio, Robert invited me to have lunch with him in Carlisle, Ky. After driving into Carlisle's charming downtown, we discovered the restaurant was closed due to sick children. While walking back to the truck, we met Ed Taylor, a friend of Robert. He offered to feed us at his restaurant 'cafe on Main'.

sorry about the quality of the photo...i had to take this shot with my cellphone.
Although it was not open for business, Ed welcomed us in, and turned up the stove. The Cafe was decorated with beautiful art...real art! Every space on the walls in the cafe were being used to display paintings or drawings. We both had roast beef with a potato casserole and broccoli. It may sound like a normal lunch, but there was nothing normal about it. The food was a concert of flavors! I don't rattle on about food...food is usually a means to an end...it gives me energy so I can paint. This food was a work of ART!

When we returned to the farm, I went directly to my studio and began a new, mysterious project. I don't want to show unfinished work, but you can rest assured that I have broken through the creative wall. Thanks everyone for your encouragement on yesterdays post to keep those creative juices pumping!

Shirley, the big fat mama goat, was making fussy noises this morning. She is ready to have those babies, but they still are not ready to come out.

Artcroft Day 11

2008-02-14T19:44:00.002-08:00

To view this blog with full features click here

Tree House

For me, creativity has peaks and valleys. For the last 10 days at Artcroft, I have enjoyed a surge of creative inspiration. Today, I feel like I ran out of creative energy.

I started the day by doing some creative work for a web design project I have been hired to do. Then at the studio, I finished 2 oil paintings. Then took a couple snapshots. I went for a 5 mile jog, came home and did some light cleaning around the house...and then got ready for dinner.

Dinner with Robert and Maureen was delicious and pleasant as always, but when I returned to the studio, I couldn't get anything done!

I felt like I was suffering from creative paralysis. I tried to paint an idea for a watercolor, but from the beginning, the composition was bad, and the colors were not agreeing with me. The worst thing was that I had no enthusiasm for my work. I am always excited to bring an image to life, but tonight, I could care less.

I hope haven't overloaded myself. I am looking forward to helping Robert with some work around the farm so my creative juices can build back up...that should do the trick!

I am curious to know how the other creative folk out there deal with keeping their creative energies in check? (particularly when they hit a brick wall)

peace
ken

Artcroft day 10

2008-02-13T19:26:00.000-08:00

Time is passing fast here at Artcroft. I am already 1/3 through the residency. I am having a great experience, and know it is going to be hard to leave when the time comes.

I spent most of the day in the studio, working on my oil paintings. I have 3 that are almost finished...if not finished:

Cat Nap
Lazy cat, was hunting for birds, then fell asleep. He's not very good at catching mice either, but he is still a good cat.

Too Good For The Hen House
When I raised chickens, they rarely went into their henhouse at night. They prefered to roost in the trees...there were many nights I had to climb the tree to bring the chickens down and put them in the henhouse!

Prissy Little Cow
Prissy little cow likes to sit with her front legs crossed in the shade and talk with the birds. Soak in the muddy pond with the other cows...never!

A watercolor painting of Mama goat who lives under the pottery studio at Artcroft, but she comes outside to look at the snow, and let me rub her belly...her baby is overdue. I think it wants to stay in her warm belly!

Artcroft day 9

2008-02-12T19:46:00.001-08:00

Today, I woke to the sound of ice sliding off the roof...crashing to the ground. A combination of sleet and snow fell for most of the day. The wintry mix changed the landscape from yellow to white.

I took a break inbetween painting sessions and took a walk around the farm.

A view of the resident's quarters.

I invited Robert and Maureen to visit my studio today. I asked Robert for a critique on my work, and was grateful for his insight. I admire anyone who can put words to the process of making visual art. It's always easy to say "I like this/I like that", but the ability to explain why something is working...or why something is not working. I hope I can develop that skill over time.

Sorry not to have new work for this post, but larger oil paintings take much more time to finish than smaller oil pastel paintings. I plan to have 2 or 3 finished tomorrow, so please keep watching this site!

peace
ken

Artcroft Day 8

2008-02-11T20:21:00.000-08:00

please read this post on my primary website...all the enhancements are not available on the blogger version:
www.kenswinson.com

Today, I took a break from small oil pastel paintings, and put some canvas on the easels…then put some paint on the canvas.

I don’t have a finished painting to show, but while painting, I took a picture every 15 minutes or so…then combined them into a video. Enjoy a peek at me while at work!

Had an interesting jog today…i decided to follow crooked creek road westward, and after about 2 miles, was chased by a pack of dogs (over 10). I probably made a personal record for sprinting during that run. I am a dog lover, but decided to hitch a ride with some nice folks instead of trying to run past the dogs again! Next run I will go east!

A week of my residency has already passed! I have done a good bit of work, but I feel like I am just settling into my new workspace. Now, I am looking forward to making some great paintings! These new paintings really make me happy…i have a feeling they are going to put a smile on your face too.

peace
ken

ArtCroft Day 7

2008-02-10T21:00:00.002-08:00

please read this post on my primary website...all the enhancements are not available on the blogger version:
www.kenswinson.com

For the seventh day, I slowed down a bit...still, I painted 2 more small oil pastels,

a great tree full of chickens with a rooster at the top of the tree

a cluster of houses...but much nicer to look at than some of the recent sprawl common here in the U.S.

I used today to go to the Y in paris and do some swimming. I did not pay attention to my time, but I think I got a good mile worth of laps. Then I did laundry, bought some groceries and returned to Artcroft. After a few hours away, it felt good to see the Artcroft sign and return home.

I try to use sunday as a day for staying in touch with my family, so much of the evening was spent sitting by the fire and catching up with my loved ones.

Now if I could only get a handle on my email! Thank you everyone for your encouraging email and blog posts. I want to reply to everyone, but there is only so much time...and so many pictures to paint! I will be in touch with everyone soon! Thank you again for the overwhelming support...it really keeps me going!

peace
ken

Artcroft day 7

2008-02-10T21:00:00.001-08:00

Artcroft Day 6

2008-02-09T21:17:00.000-08:00

I regret that I do not get to writing my blog post until the end of the day when my mind is mush...but I will try and recount another wonderful day at Artcroft.

This morning, I helped Robert sure up the roof for the chicken coop. The weather is supposed to take a turn for the worse, so it was good we were able to tighten it up.

I made 8 small oil pastel paintings. I am trying to explore a theme with slight variations. Some are good, some are bad and some are great, I will make large oil paintings out of the best small paintings. Feel free to comment on what you think is good, bad and ugly...it will help me with the decision making!

me crosseyed from painting too much!

Late in the afternoon while preparing dinner, Maureen commented on the beautiful light outside. I decided to take a walk with my camera and try to capture some of that light.

I am having a great time out here. I can't express the good feeling that comes with a stay at Artcroft. Robert and Maureen are experts at creating a beautiful environment for creative thinking.

Artcroft Residency Day 5

2008-02-08T21:34:00.000-08:00

It's the end of the day, and I am exhausted...but I want to keep up the habit of posting something every day of my residency at Artcroft.

I started the morning helping Robert build the roof of the chicken coop. Chicks are scheduled to arrive in the mail in two weeks!

Then I took a 7 mile run in the country. Very beautiful country...kentucky has some of the best, unspoiled country roads in the U.S. !

The rest of the day, I painted like a maniac! Here are the results of my frenzy...enjoy!

CHickeN in A Tree

bird iN the yArd

hOuse iN tHe fOrest

pUrple tRee

Windy Hill

Tree On an Island

tRee HouSe

Cat In A tree

Bird In A tree

ArtCroft residency day 4

2008-02-07T20:36:00.000-08:00

Busy day!

After doing some work in the studio, I went to Carslile to mail a print that I sold on Etsy.

I helped Robert take the veranda apart, remove the nails, and stack the destruction into a neat orderly pile.

I have started 3 oil paintings, and they all involve brightly colored trees. I am trying to work in series...each painting is unique, but they have a unifying look and feel...like they are all brothers and sisters.

I started a few smaller oil pastels that are in the same series.

Here is the oil pastel inspired by yesterday's sketch of the pond.

I am feeling very productive here at artCroft!

peace
ken

ArtCroft Residency Day3 (tornados and rainbows)

2008-02-06T21:38:00.000-08:00

Last night, furious winds crossed the hills in Kentuckyland. When I woke up, there was no electricity and I saw the veranda attached to the resident's quarters had been blown down.

My cell phone worked, and I called my friend who was staying at my old house with the dogs and cats. During last night's storm, a tornado passed between me and my neighbor's house. The barn was leveled, the outhouse vanished, The neighbor's trampoline 2 acres away broke a window, and enough roof is missing from the house so you can see the stars through the ceiling!

It's probably good that I missed all the excitement. The animals are all safe, and nothing irreplaceable was destroyed.

After a few hours, the electricity came back on, and I went to my studio to work. It was a good escape from my worries, and I almost finished my second oil painting. The rain stopped, so I strapped on my waterproof hiking boots and took a walk around the farm.

I sketched a scene where a stream emptied into a pond, then followed the stream for a while. It is very easy to keep walking, because every corner you turn offers new beautiful views. I was a good distance from the studio, when the skies changed from blue to grey to black, so I quickly changed direction and returned to the studio. I got a little wet, but made it to shelter before the torrential downpour started.

After drying off and doing some painting, the storm stopped as abruptly as it started, and the sky displayed one of the most magnificant rainbows i have ever seen!

I returned to my work, until dinner time. After dinner, I had a few inspired hours when I started a new oil painting. I tried to use my camera to record video of me creating the artwork, but the memory filled up without my knowing, so I continued painting without being recorded. I have always thought the first moments of a new painting are the most exciting anyway! I should have the video ready to share soon!

I am having a great experience out here!

peace
ken

ArtCroft residency Day 2

2008-02-05T21:35:00.000-08:00

It's unusually warm for February...possibly in the 60's!

The skies are dark, and it has stormed off and on all day...while I painted up a storm in the studio.

Here is a little oil pastel painting of my studio.

Sunday, I ran into 5 or 6 cats who were loafing around in a tree behind the log cabin in Augusta. I thought they would make a good subject for a painting. I like the oil pastel so much, I am in the process of painting it in oils.

I have another canvas that is almost finished...I haven't decided whether to show it online or not. I am afraid that If I show everything online, you won't come to the show at the banana tree studios in April. I'll probably show it off, because it's too good NOT to show off!

I also have some video I am working on...hope to get it up soon for everyone to see!

Did I say I love it here?

peace

Happy Groundhog's Day

2008-02-02T22:19:00.000-08:00

The official word is that Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this year, so let's all try and stay warm for the next 6 weeks!

Here's some of the latest:

She's a little prissy with her front legs crossed, but she should be...she's such a pretty little cow!
oil pastel with irridescent gold and bronze...you really have to see this one in person

oil pastel painting of a spot I ran into while driving on a crooked road. I took a wrong turn, and thought I'd do some sketching to get my bearings...i took the sketch home and painted this beautiful painting!

While driving the backroads in Kentucky, I came to a beautiful spot where the road curved and there were lots of cedar trees in a hollar with a little house. I pulled over and made a little sketch, then painted it at my studio.

Cat Nap

2008-01-29T16:54:00.000-08:00

A Painting in Oil Pastel...using gold irridescent pigment for the tree's background. You need to see this one in person to enjoy the reflective property of this one.

peace
ken

Oil Pastel

2008-01-29T15:09:00.000-08:00

a bit more traditional than my recent work. A farm scene typical of my neighborhood.

new oil pastel paintings

2008-01-27T08:24:00.001-08:00

I've been keeping busy in the studio. Here's two new Oil Pastel Paintings.

Small oil pastel painting of the ferry that joins Kentucky and Ohio. The ferry in Augusta, Ky is one of 2 operating ferries on the Ohio river.

Still Life of Vase With Flowers.

New Oil Pastel Paintings Featured On Etsy

2008-01-26T12:27:00.001-08:00

I thought I would try offering a few of the little oil pastel paintings I have been working on Etsy. It's a great website that for buying and selling handmade things. In addition to the usual detailed photos, I wanted the buyer to get a sense of scale...and a glimpse of how messy I keep my desk!

Just wanted everyone to know in case you are interested.

peace
ken

small oil pastel paintings

2008-01-22T20:37:00.001-08:00

I have been painting very small oil pastel paintings. Having to cover a very small surface, I am able to work quickly. This exercise has allowed me to visualize my idea before I commit to a large, time comsuming painting. These exercises also give me small original paintings to offer for sale at hard-to-resist prices.

Please feel free to comment on which ones you think "work" and don't.

a little lake with a little riverfront real estate undeveloped.

Little house on hill with outhouse in backyard.

Small Oil Pastel painting of a cow enjoying the view from the top of a hill.

I was missing the warm weather when I could take my bike for a spin, and painted this small oil pastel

little dog in the yard

A very small oil pastel painting.

25 Frames

2007-11-25T17:04:00.001-08:00

tried to get as much done possible before the rain started. Cut and put 25 frames together. I still have to paint the frames, and then paint pictures to put IN the frames.

peace

ken

new gallery feature on my blog

2007-11-19T07:23:00.000-08:00

I have added a new section to my blog. It is a gallery of my artwork. I am testing some new technology to feature my artwork online. I plan to continue adding work to the gallery, so pay it a visit every now and then. Here’s a direct link to the gallery

I am happy with the results, but let me know what you think…does it work for you?

peace

ken

After blogging with blogger for almost 2 years, I have decided to move my blog from Blogger to WordPress. I would have made the move sooner, but no change is always easier than change.

With wordpress, my blog will be hosted on the same server as my website. It is open source, and I will have opportunities to customize the blog in a wide variety of ways.

To make the transition smooth, I will publish new posts on both blogger and wordpress, but may eventually phase blogger.

So if you bookmark my blog, please change the url to:
http://www.kenswinson.com/wordpress/

If you subscribe to the feed, here is the new rss feed:
http://www.kenswinson.com/wordpress/?feed=rss2

If you don't know what an rss feed is, you may want to read this.

I would like to hear from any bloggers out there who have made the switch from blogger to wordpress. Any tips or suggestions would be appreciated.

peace

ken

I am an artist

2007-11-16T09:16:00.001-08:00

Between school and personal stuff, I haven’t painted for a little over a week. As soon as i smelled the turpentine, and started putting paint on the canvas, I was overcome with joy. I feel awkward in most situations. It’s only while painting I feel in my element. Why do I let so much time pass?

It’s kind of like running. I am good at finding excuses not to do it, but once I get started, I wonder why I waited so long.

After blogging with blogger for almost 2 years, I have decided to move my blog from Blogger to WordPress. I would have made the move sooner, but no change is always easier than change.

With wordpress, my blog will be hosted on the same server as my website. It is open source, and I will have opportunities to customize the blog in a wide variety of ways.

To make the transition smooth, I will publish new posts on both blogger and wordpress, but may eventually phase blogger.

So if you bookmark my blog, please change the url to:
http://www.kenswinson.com/wordpress/

If you subscribe to the feed, here is the new rss feed:
http://www.kenswinson.com/wordpress/?feed=rss2

If you don't know what an rss feed is, you may want to read this.

I would like to hear from any bloggers out there who have made the switch from blogger to wordpress. Any tips or suggestions would be appreciated.

peace

ken

Moving to WordPress

2007-11-12T14:39:00.000-08:00

After blogging with blogger for almost 2 years, I have decided to move my blog from Blogger to WordPress. I would have made the move sooner, but no change is always easier than change.

With wordpress, my blog will be hosted on the same server as my website. It is open source, and I will have opportunities to customize the blog in a wide variety of ways.

To make the transition smooth, I will publish new posts on both blogger and wordpress, but may eventually phase blogger.

So if you bookmark my blog, please change the url to:
http://www.kenswinson.com/wordpress/

If you subscribe to the feed, here is the new rss feed:
http://www.kenswinson.com/wordpress/?feed=rss2

If you don't know what an rss feed is, you may want to read this.

I would like to hear from any bloggers out there who have made the switch from blogger to wordpress. Any tips or suggestions would be appreciated.

peace
ken

Richmond Marathon

2007-11-10T11:00:00.000-08:00

The race results are not officially in, but me, mom, sister, and brother-in-law all finished. It was perfect race weather. Richmond offers great views on their course.

Mom is a wonderwoman! Around mile 10, she started passing people at a constant rate. She kept it up for about 8 miles. As she passed a number of younger, talented looking athletes, I thought to myself,

"That's my mom!"

At the beginning of the marathon, she swore "This is my last one..." laying in bed at the hotel after the race, she looks at me and says, "ok, maybe one more".

I hope I can keep up with her when i'm her age.

Plein Air Sunday

2007-11-07T23:32:00.000-08:00

Sunday, I met my friend Susan for some plein air painting in the countryside. It was a little cool and windy, but the colors were changing.

Hike on Appalachian Trail

2007-10-27T13:09:00.000-07:00

I am back after a 5 day hike on the Appalachian trail.

Time and weather limited my ability to paint much.

It rained the majority of the trek, and I wasn't prepared for the physical strain involved when you must carry all your food and accomodations on your back. In spite of less than perfect conditions, I had a great time!

I am already planning my next hike...maybe when I finish school, maybe I'll spend a month or two on the Florida Trail?

I have some artwork to show, but in the meantime, here are some of my snapshots while on the trip. You can see some more of my photos from my trip:
click here to go to my pictures on flickr

I'll try and post more pictures, paintings and videos from the trip soon!

peace
ken

this is one of the wild ponies that live in the highlands along the Appalachian trail. His back came to my chest.

Ubuntu version 7.10

2007-10-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

I am supposed to be catching up on my schoolwork so I can take a week off for a hike on the Appalachian Trail, but I couldn't resist the download for the Ubuntu upgrade. It looks like every geek on the planet has the same idea, because the download is going VERY slow. I won't get to play with it until I get back from the hike.

If you don't know what I'm talking about, Ubuntu is a popular version of Linux. It is a free, open source alternative to Windows and Mac OSX.

I must focus on SCHOOLWORK!

peace
ken

Art Off Pike

2007-10-14T15:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was at Art Off Pike, in Covington's rapidly growing Arts District. The City of Covington has been actively tring to get artists to open studios and galleries in their historic neighborhood. I love Augusta kentucky too much to consider leaving, but there is a certain appeal when a city's policy recognizes the value of having artists in their community. Very tempting...

The organizers were very friendly, and there was a very fun and festive vibe throught the entire show. There were live bands, dancing and tasting of locally brewed wines in the streets of Covington.

Thanks to all the nice people who came out and supported the arts. It was a very nice show.

Hyde Park Square Art Show

2007-10-11T20:31:00.000-07:00

WOW!
Despite the unseasonable 92degree weather, it was a busy and successful show. Thank you everyone who endured the heat and supported my art.

I've been working hard to fill the orders I took at the show...I will have them out on monday at the latest.

The success of Hyde Park has caused some problems. I am participating in Art Off Pike in Covington, as well as having my art on display at the old winery in Augusta this Saturday. I do not have nearly enough artwork. I've been working around the clock to put everything together.

This is why it's taken so long to write a post about the art show.

plein air wednesday

2007-09-27T21:51:00.000-07:00

I met Sue Gorman for another 'Plein air wednesday' at Aberdeen, OH's river park.

The view of Maysville is impressive from the park. I was feeling ambitious, and thought I'd try and tackle a 20"x30" canvas. I figured I would just use a bigger brush, and it would be the same as a sensible 11x14 or 16x20 canvas.

My arm got much more of a workout, but I wasn't able to finish the painting...I stayed an extra 3 hours longer than our usual painting session. However, the great size of the painting gives a great impression of a magnificant view! I am finishing the painting in studio.

Sue left before I could photo her painting, but she did an excellent painting of the bridge in turquoise and oranges. If she sends me a photo, I'll post it...it's very nice.

Then, after a swim at the YMCA, a storm rolled in, and I had to stop and take a picture of the dark sky contrasting with the autumn colors.

peace
ken

**update**
Sue sent me a copy of her beautiful painting for everyone to enjoy...thanks sue!

A week flies by...

2007-09-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting on the blog all week:

A week goes fast when you are keeping busy....or maybe I'm just getting old.

Last wednesday, I met Sue Gorman for plein air wednesday. We painted a covered bridge on North Pole road (it's just outside Ripley, Ohio). A deer came close to the site where we were painting, but ran away as soon as I got my camera in focus.

I did, however, get some snapshots of a pair of artists in their natural environment!

School's in full swing (week 6). It's taking a lot of time I would really rather spend being an artist.

I went down to Augusta and painted Rosemary Clooney's house.

I spent a day cutting wood into picture frames. I still have to putty and paint.

Monday, I drove to Flemmingsburg to paint and visit my friend and opera singer, Jessica Cain.

Tuesday was school for the first half of the day, followed by an afternoon of studio painting!

Hope you all had a great week!

Oh , I heard my painting for fresh art sold for $800 at the auction. It was a great painting, but I'm surprised (in a great way) it did so well!

peace
ken

Plein Air In Augusta, KY

2007-09-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

Sunday, I decided to drive down to Augusta and paint a house or something. The weather is perfect, and participating in "fresh Art" reminded me how much I enjoy plein air painting.

I planned to paint one of the historic homes that face the ohio river, but was surprised to see a giant sternwheeler docked at the river. I asked the captain how long the boat was going to stay, and when he said "a little over an hour", I quickly setup my paint, and threw paint on the canvas.

With such a short time to work, I didn't have much time to fuss over composition or details. I just painted in a rage...I knew my time to paint was limited, and I wanted to do as good as I could while the opportunity was there.

The finished product is not bad for a little over an hours work, but a valuable lesson was learned. Life is kindof like that...We all have limited time here on earth, and should try and have enthusiasm for our work and do as good as we can while the opportunity is here.

peace
ken

Fresh Art 2007

2007-09-16T09:35:00.000-07:00

I endured a whole day of blue skies, a light breeze and incredible view of Cincinnat's skyline from Dree's Pavilion to make my painting for the "Fresh Art" auction. What a hard life!

This painting turned out so good, I almost hate to let it go. I did get a good photo before turning it in, so I can make prints.

I hope it fetches a good price for the museum. I'm going to miss tonight's auction, my car needs a little work before I am going to drive it long distances.

I have bad anxiety at social functions anyway!

peace
ken

September 14th - Judy Federer Day

2007-09-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

For those who missed the retrospective of Judy Federer's paintings at the Augusta Art Guild, I've posted a lo-fi video of the building's dedication.

I am going to have to go back and see her paintings. The building was not big enough to hold all of her friends who came to celebrate her art. People were sprawled around the building, and I couldn't navigate through the crowd to view all 88 of the paintings on display. Judy was special, we are sure going to miss her

peace
ken

Fresh Art Sept 15-16

2007-09-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

I've double checked my calendar, my car is running, and I am not going to miss this event. It's a fun fundraiser for the Behringer-Crawford museum. They have a great collection of Harland Hubbard's paintings.

If you haven't heard of Harlad Hubbard...imagine Henry David Therou living on a homemade shantyboat on the Ohio river as a painter...

The event is called 'Fresh Art'. Local painters meet at Devou Park, where the museum is located, and they create a work of art (start to finish) within the boundries of the park. Sunday evening, the museum hosts a dinner and auctions the paintings.

here's the link to the 'fresh Art' website

Jason D. Geil, from the Enquirer took a great photo of me at last year's Fresh Art. here's a link to his photo

I'm planning to paint from Drees Pavilion. It's such a great view!

uh oh

2007-09-09T10:43:00.001-07:00

I just suffered a major consequence of trying to do too much at once.

I missed the Belleview Art Show. Don't tell the show organizers, but I thought the show was on Sunday. Something just wasn't working right in my brain. Hyde Park's artshow is on Sunday, and I guess I was confused.

I made the mistake because lately, I have been trying to do too much. School full time, A job, commission work, getting ready for the show...you get the idea.

To make myself feel better, when I picked my van up on saturday (I thought the show was on sunday) It ran for about 15 miles, and then it broke down! So my official excuse for missing the show was car trouble...it's semi-true, and much less humiliating than the truth.

My apologies to everyone who came to see me at the show. This has been a real wake up call, and opportunity to get my priorities in check.

peace
ken

Stretching Canvas

2007-09-06T21:24:00.000-07:00

I found some time to try making my own stretchers for canvas. My table saw does a decent job putting a bevel on the wood, but I think a router may be a better tool for the job. I could also use it fancy up my custom picture frames a bit. Any tips from experienced woodworkers are appreciated.

I want to start painting bigger. With two newly stretched 20x30 canvases, I will have a great surface to paint.

peace
ken

its a lot of fun working hard

2007-09-04T19:44:00.001-07:00

I spent much of the labor day weekend helping my friend at his restaurant in Augusta, Ky. I made a trip to Cincinnati to help my friend Samuel Ruder frame some work
for an upcoming show.
Monday I did some kayaking on the Ohio River.
Tuesday, I made a trip to trip to Cinci to get some framing supplies
and stopped at NKU.

I had driven by the campus often, but never stopped to visit.
It looks like a nice campus.
I am not sure if I would want to drive 45+ minutes for class,
but the the campus looks nice,
and the technology building appeared to have all the
comforts a geek like me needs.
I even managed to get a halfway decent panoramic
snapshot with my little pocket camera.

I offer printing services to local artists,
and have spent the rest of the day cutting matts,
and assembling matted print all day, but it
sure is nice to do work that I love for a living.
It makes it much easier since the artist's
(Barb Clarke) work is so nice to look at.

Oh yeah, If your in Belleview this Sunday, stop by and say HI, I'll be at Art In the Park...it's from 12-5pm.

8.31.2007

2007-08-31T09:40:00.000-07:00

Sorry for dropping off the face of the earth. After my last post, a heatwave rolled in and the trip became more difficult.

After pedaling a total of 730 miles on the bicycle, I finished following Michigan's coast, and met Samuel at St. Joseph's where he brought me across Indiana in the comfort of his air-conditioned van.

Now, I am catching up with my studio work that I neglected over the three weeks I spent in the North Country. School's back in session too...I think it will be an exciting semester. I am taking an advanced web design class, java programming, operating systems and hardware maintenance.

September 8th, i will be at Belleview's Art in The Park. Followed by Fresh Art at Devou park in Covington the next weekend (Sept 15-16)

Hope to see you there!

It's nice to be home.

peace
ken

7.28.2007

2007-07-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

It can be tough sometimes.

Last night, it was raining around 7pm, so I found a nice spot to stay for the night in a wildlife preserve. After resting, I took my bike to Cheboygan. My first impression was very good. The town sits on a small river, lined with docking boats. The "Koffee Korner" makes a delicious pumpernickle bagel with ham, egg, and cream cheese.

I took the obligitory photos of their lighthouse, then decided to move on to Macinaw City. There, I was suprised to see the sidewalks packed with people...with standing room only. Flatbed trailers loaded with people were delivering people to the main part of town. There were even TV reporters. I felt like a one man parade, riding my bike down the street. At the shore, where you could see the bridge, I did a few sketches, but chose not to paint because of all the ruckus. I finally asked what all the festivities were about...It's the 50th Anniversary of the bridge.

Happy Bithday Bridge!

I love people, but not in swarms, so I decided to get some distance behind me. I took a scenic highway nicknamed "the tunnel of trees'' a 20+ stretch of windy narrow hilly road that finishes with breathtaking bluff views of Lake Michigan. I hadn't experienced many hills in Eastern Michigan, so I renamed the course, "the tunnel of tourture".

It got worse when the only store in Good Hart refused to let me use their sink to refill my water bottles. Of course, you can buy water there. I always spend money whenever I refill my bottles at a business, but out of principle, I was not going to support a business that is unfriendly to cyclists. The rest of the trek was pretensious mansions with keep out signs at all the pretty views. Still thirsty, I was putting out a bad vibe.

I breezed through Harbor Springs after getting some water, then followed their 20+ mile bike trail. As the sun was setting, I was afraid that I wasn't going to find a place to rest, but at the last minute I found a patch of trees outside Charlevoix where I was able to end the day.

7.28.2007

2007-07-30T07:32:00.000-07:00

7.27.2007I am trying to create a workflow where I paint, cycle, take, pictures, camp, and keep everyone updated on my blog. It's frustrating when the library's computer won't let users switch to the Dvorak keyboard layout. (that's a whole other story!) I do have some stories and pictures to share, and I think I have developed a system that will work while on the road.
It's the fifth day "living" on a bicycle. I have adjusted to the reality that I probabably will not see my home and "modern" convieniences for some time still. I don't mind, because (in spite of the hardships) when this journey is over, I know I will wish it lasted longer.
To start the day, I quickly broke camp, and resumed my pedaling toward Rogers City. I followed a sign that invited travelers to visit Presque Isle, and see their 2 lighthouses. The turn off the road ended up being a 6 mile comittment before seeing a lighthouse. (that equals 12 miles out of my way)

I stopped first at the "new" lighthouse. It was built in the late 1800s, and is the tallest on Michigan's eastern shore. It was a pleasure to start my morning painting the structure, and even nicer to meet the "lighthouse lady". She took care of the lighthouse, and was very enthusiastic about my painting and trip. She insisted that I climb the lighthouse. I had never climbed a lighthouse before, and while enjoying the view, I realized what I had been missing all my life. I don't think a photo would do the scene justice, but I took a few snapshots anyway.(how do you capture the sound of seagulls, and the smell of fog in the air?)

I visited the original lighthouse, and painted it while the kind lighthouse keeper let me use their electricity to charge my camera's battery. I think the older lighthouse has the more picturesque setting between the two lighthouses, but the new lighthouse has the best view!
In Roger's City, I picked up my birthday present from my sister. (a tripod with flexible legs, so you could wrap it around a tree or a fence or a BIKE!) Thanks Carrie. While at the post office, I used the gifts box to send a pair of shoes and jeans that I will never use on this trip home. (i was warned about bringing too many clothes). Also of note, Roger's City's post office has aWPA mural depicting the town's limestone quary.
My best memory of Roger's City was it's bike trail. It's trail winds through the city's pine woods and follows Lake Huron's shore, guiding the cyclist to the nearby state park.
En route towards Cheboygan, I stopped at the 40 mile Lighthouse. I didn't intend to spend so much of my time painting/photographing lighthouses, but seeing them in person is hard to pass up...especially with sand in your toes!

sorry about the pictures being sideways. this library's computer gives 30 minutes use, and does not allow windows to rotate images...go figure!
peace

ken

i put a kickstand on my bike!

2007-07-27T13:06:00.000-07:00

now it can stand up by itself!

and for the next few days, i'll be closer to the north pole than the equator.

peace

ken

july 26, 2007

2007-07-27T12:59:00.000-07:00

july 26, 2007

Yesterday was my birthday. I spent it in the Huron National Forest.. Afthr a restful sleep in the forest, I visited the Lumberman's Monument in search of a cup of coffee. The friendly ranger directed me to a camp/supply shop 3 miles away. the store was classic...with pictures of record breaking catches by fishemen. They also have pictues of the building of the dam.
I painted at Ioaga springs, which provided abreathtaking view of the Au Sable river. I stopped to paint the view. After returning to the monument, I saw a series of exhibits that recreate the logging process back when the Lumbermen were paid 2 dollars for 16 hour workdays(meals were included). The highlight of the exhibit was a floating camp. complele with skillet and flapjacks. It gave me some serious ideas about my next trip...Harland Hubbard style.
After painting pine trees by the river, I returned to my bike, where a note was attached to my bike. It asked me to please visit campsite 18. After getting directions from the ranger, I was greeted by the couple i met in Saginaw, who pointed me to the rail/trail in Bay City.
They were so happy to see me. they explained that they often took long distance hikes, and knew the value of a hot meal. Bonnie insisted on cooking me an omelet, while I looked over the m.ap with Jim.. They were an extrodinary couple. together, they had hiked 100+ mile trails. Jim was an avid cclist and canoe paddler....and this couple camped in style. their camp was relatively empty...due to the majority of campers need for electricity. they had a hummingbird feeder fresh potted flowes, and it was obvious they loved the outdoors. bonnie packed me up with cookies, and i said 'happy trails' to my friends for the second time.

It was reassuring to know that I am not crazy after all. Or at least I'm not the only one!
After leaving the park, I stoppcd beside the river, and had a refreshing dip. It's amazing how clear the water is. You can see the fish swimming beneath you.

east tawas mi 7.24.2007

2007-07-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

greetings from east tawas MI.

I had a very frustrating morning. l slept beside the highway, disturbed every-so-often by a passing truck or woodland critter. l was freezing and damp and tired. My hands were chapped from not wearing gloves, I was sunburnt...you get the idea. I was not having the experience that I set out to have...oh yeah, did i say it looked like rain?
Then there was East Tawas.I had breakfast at Mcdonalds...afamiliar comfort, then visited the local wal-mart for some gloves, a raincoat, and some food for the road.
Across the street was a park with a marina. The light was that morning light painters dream of...pink,purple, and blue with clouds in the sky...is there going to be a storm, or is that light peeking through the clouds?
I decided to paint the maina, in spite of boats being a difficult subject to paint. I was greeted by a friendly boater who asked about my travels. I told him about my trip, then found a place to paint on the pier.
A pair of women stopped to watch me paint. Barbara, owns a gallery and art supply shop overlooking the shore. she sells paints made with honey as the binder. The pigments look rich, l'm eager to try them out.

Augusta's Bluegrass Festival

2007-07-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

After the art show, Today, I got my bike. Brian Todd made some modifications to keep me comfortable during the trek and allow me to carry all the gear I would need during my trip. Brian's wife, Kim, organized a bluegrass festival as a replacement for the city's discontinued "Regatta Festival". Money was raised to help with the preservation of Augusta's historic jailhouse.

On my way out of town, I took some time from my packing to listen to and Jake Speed and the Freddies. Laying on the grassy bank of the Ohio river, | wounded if I wasn't making a mistake by leaving my happy Kentucky home. Hopefully it doesn't change while I am away. I have a fear that progress will eventually discover the little town, and it will be plaqued with fast food and Cincinatti's sprawl.

Art Show At Banana Tree Studios

2007-07-19T21:35:00.001-07:00

13 July 2007

Art Show At Banana Tree Studios

I was invited to participate in a special "All Male" exhibit of local artists at the Banana Tree Studios in Flemingsburg, KY. The exhibit features myself along with Jack Donahue (pastel), Ken Macht (ceramics), and Tom Ross (photography). Hosted by Kathy and Ken Macht, the opening was well attended and a pleasure for everyone who participated.

Sales were above my expectations, and I met a lot of friendly people, enthusiastic about my work.

Ken and Kathy are a class act, and anyone traveling near Flemmingsburg will not be disappointed by a visit to their studio/gallery

I'm not dead...just working a lot!

2007-06-29T08:33:00.000-07:00

Early this month was Augusta's Art In The Garden. June 3rd

I seriously considered not participating this year.
I've been in school all year, and unable to develop a strong body of work. I reluctantly decided to do the show since I have been in this show for the last 6 years, and it is in my home town.

The show was a success!
I have noticed that each year, the show is a bigger and bigger success. Many friends came to the show...some I had not seen for a few years. I had a great time, and am glad I decided to do the show after all. Thanks everyone for coming out!

Before the show, I had a few questions about the direction of my work.
Taking a year from studio work to study computers, I had moments when I thought I would like to work with computers to make a living. Other times, I deeply resented my studies and felt I was ruining my life depriving myself time to create artwork.

I have been working hard with my art since the show
I love being an artist. There are some exciting possibilities with technology that I will continue to pursue, but my primary objective is to be an artist, so that has been my focus over the summer.

A few shows are coming up:
I will be one of the exhibitors this saturday at 'the Written Word' bookstore in Ripley, Oh 4-8pm
also

one of a 3man show at 'Bananna Tree Studios' in Flemmingsburg, Ky -July Friday the 13th

'Art In the Park' in Belleview, Ky -September 15

'fresh art' at the Beringher-Crawford museum in Covington, Ky -Septemeber 16

'hyde park square art show' in Cincinnati, Oh October 7

5 Things NOT to do at a triathlon

2007-06-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind keeping up with my blog. I should have posted it two weeks ago...I hope it's still relevant.

5 Things NOT to do at a triathlon

1. Underestimate the importance of a good night's rest
I help a friend at his restaurant one or two days a week. Friday night before the race, he was extremely short staffed. I was the waiter for the entire restaurant while training a girl on her first day as a waitress. To make matters worse, there was a high volume of customers. Needless to say, I did not get a good night's rest the day before the race. I did not get to sleep until about 2 am, and I felt like I had already ran a triathlon.

2. Pack for the morning of the race
Organizational skills are not my best asset. I packed a lot of my gear the morning of the race. 30 minutes before the start of the race, I realized that I had forgotten my goggles! I was very lucky that a good friend happened to have a spare pair.
Thanks again, Laura!

3. Plan for perfect conditions
During the swim, I felt good, I did not panic, and my form was excellent. However, I was one of the last to get out of the water. This was particularly frustrating because I had been working hard to improve my stroke all year. My placement in the swim was worse than last year's! When I got to my bicycle, I had a flat tire!

4. Give up when discouraged
Not only did I forget to pack my goggles, I also forgot to bring my bicycle pump. I carry a small pump on my bike, but It does not get enough pressure for a 25 mile race! I almost went home , when a spectator offered me the use of his pump. I changed my tire, and followed the course...doomed to the shame of last place.

5. Bring a highly competitive spirit
While finishing the race, I thought about why I was racing in the first place. I'm not an elite athlete, I pretty much do it for fun...and my health. I was so worried about my rank, that I didn't allow myself to have a good time. Once I realized my mistake, the race became very enjoyable. Maysville is a beautiful city, and it's a great course!

Plein Air Wednesday at McGee's Bakery-May 23, 2007

2007-05-30T22:42:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been very good at posting over the last month. Along with my usual excuse of having a busy life, I recently started using the Devorak keyboard layout. I've been typing extremely slow, and kept my typing to a minimum. Anyway, here's the post I would have typed a week ago:

It was one of the first hot days of the year, and the first day of the season for plein air Wednesday. For 3 years now, a group of local artists meet every other Wednesday for fellowship, and to paint in the open air.

To start the season, we met at McGee's bakery. A local favorite situated on a picturesque farm in Mason County. Before starting with a cheese danish and cup of coffee, l strolled along a path, scouting out the picture-perfect scene. I gravitated toward the old wooden barn. From my direction, I could see the barn, dirt path, bakery and farmhouse with rolling hills in the background.

since it was the beginning of the season, I was feeling particularly ambitious, and decided to mash everything into one scene. With all the scenes, it was impossible to choose one.

While painting,I was aproached by the resident herd of cows. Curious about a stranger painting in their field, they gathered around to watch. One of the younger cows must have been inspired. He came very close to smell my paint and brushes.

It was good to get back to my passion...painting outside. The delicious cookies and danishes didn't hurt either!

Teacher let the monkeys out...almost

2007-04-30T00:36:00.000-07:00

Just 2 exams to go, and I will have another semester under my belt. I opened a new gallery with a few digital paintings on my website. This gallery uses flash instead of HTML. It's a rough sketch gallery, but I like the possibilities. Maybe this education hasn't been a waste after all.

here's a direct link to the gallery

have a great week
peace
ken

friday the thirteenth

2007-04-13T23:25:00.000-07:00

Friday the Thirteenth

What a weird day.
My ipod broke.
Work was stranger than usual.
A black cat crossed my path on the way home from school
(i think there was white on it's paws so it shouldn't count...right?)
and when I got home, the heater for my room was fried.

I'm not really superstitious, but...

hope everybody had good luck!!!

peace
ken

windy house on hill

2007-04-10T11:31:00.000-07:00

digital painting.

you like???

peace
ken

photo of the artist

2007-04-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

I was trying to describe a painting's size to a potential customer over email, and included a photograph. To illustrate the work's size in proximity to a human.

I usually like to be on the other side of the camera, but since it's not my worst photo, I thought I'd share with you all.

Sorry, guys, the painting sold. I do have prints if anyone needs one.

peace
ken

barns in snow

2007-04-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

I know most people here in kentucky are sick of looking at snow, but here's one last picture before the spring season gets going.

Can you tell what medium I used?

peace
ken

boy with rooster updated

2007-04-09T11:31:00.000-07:00

I am really starting to have fun with this new medium.

So if you decide halfway through your painting that you'd like to try a different color scheme...instead of starting the painting from scratch, you can do a little photoshop wizardry and go from there.

I'm not decided if I like the boy better in blue or not. I think he is really asleep, dreaming that he has a rooster for a friend. I don't know if the rooster is one legged or two yet either....

I'll keep you updated!

peace
ken

boy with rooster

2007-04-05T22:36:00.001-07:00

Something I've been working on for a while now. A portrait with a farm animal.

This work was started from a rough pencil sketch. The rest was done in Photoshop. My goal is to make work with the latest technology, while maintaining the look, feel, style I have developed with traditional media.

I think the hands need some work.

Also, there is a halo between the body and background. This is a result of working the two parts of the painting separately. This painting is going to receive more colors. First, I will make it my screen saver and study it for a while.

new media??

2007-04-05T19:12:00.000-07:00

I have been experimenting with a new way to draw/paint. The artwork is created through a touch sensitive screen on a computer with photoshop.

The three crocks in a corner window are a current work in process. The sketch was created on location. There are no photo references.

I started drawing using 3 tones:

dark brown (shadows)
sepia (midtones)
light yellow (highlights)

Then I drew the aqua color with a semi-opaque brush, allowing the light/dark contrast of the underpainting come through.

I have been using the rub tool to smear the brush strokes.

It's a challenge whenever an artist starts a new medium, and this one is no different. I am somewhat familiar with photoshop as a photo editing program. However, I am interested in using it in a similar way to how an artist would use traditional media.

Right now, I want to learn to:

create custom brushes that respond to a surface texture
create brushes that respond to the color they are applied to (similar to Painter's smeary brushes)
apply textures that look natural

This is new material, so comments/suggestions are greatly apprecaited

Wintery Mix

2007-01-21T21:28:00.000-08:00

The weatherman said that we would have a wintry mix of precipitation today. I braved the elements to drive to the store and get some cough syrup.

I wasn't the only one braving the storm. My neighbor dog "bucksley" was stomping around in the snow. It's been a very mild winter so far, and a little snow was nice to look at.

It's gotten that bad. I'm using my blog to talk about the weather! I'll write something about art next post. Meanwhile, If you'd like to talk about your weather, or anything else...please leave a comment!

ken

Happy New Year!!! (er...kinda late salutations)

2007-01-10T22:47:00.000-08:00

OK, maybe regular posting on my blog should have been my goal for 2007.
2006 was my busiest and most productive year EVER. You can scan the archives of this blog and get a small idea of what's been happening.

During the turning of the year, I helped my friend at his restaurant, "The Beehive Tavern".
I'm not superstitious. However, there is a certain symbolism to "what you do during the turning of the new year is what you will do most the next year". I enjoy helping at the restaurant on weekends. In fact, the extra money probably helps me keep the lights turned on! But, I did not want to wait tables during the turning of the new year.

At 11:55, I was still busy popping corks, and filling customer's champagne glasses. Then I ran outside, took off my apron, and stood in front of Augusta's ferry docked at the riverside. It was unseasonably warm, and the streetlights provided plenty of light for me to make a small sketch of the boat.

I was very happy outside while I heard the crowd count down in the tavern. For that important moment in time, I was being an artist. I finished my sketch, put my apron back on, and returned to the job of a waiter for the rest of the evening.

I know it's a little late, but how was your new year? Do you have any creative resolutions or goals? Leave a post and share your plans!

Webcam?

2006-12-19T18:28:00.000-08:00

Here is an experiment with my webcam.
The above image is a "live" image of my studio. When turned on, a new image will upload to the server in one minute intervals.

Now, you have an opportunity to take a peek at my studio.
You should be able to see different projects while they are being executed. This will also help keep me motivated about keeping my workspace tidy.

Where have you been!?

2006-12-13T12:28:00.000-08:00

Sorry folks,
I've been bad at keeping my blog updated lately. It's not from a lack of anything interesting going on.
Full time college took up a LOT more time than I thought it would.
I have learned that it is impossible to do EVERYTHING well, my art career took a temporary hiatus while I adjususted to college life. My chemistry class was particularly time consuming, since it is not a subject that I have a natural talent for.

Finals are over Thursday!
And I will have a month between classes to get back to speed with my projects. Next semester, I am taking a lighter load. All classes are online, and relate to computers. I hope to merge my studies with my studio work, and develop a relationship between computers and my artwork.

DSL is finally in my neighborhood!
With broadband, I will to do a better job of keeping my different projects up to date. I am redesigning my main website. I will also post regularly to my Flickr and DeviantArt accounts. I am setting up a webcam, so you can see what's happening in my studio (I have to clean this mess first!)

Please come back!
If you haven't been to this blog for a while, please come back soon. I promise, I'll have new posts for you to read!

By the way
I'm heating with wood, and if anyone has a tree they need cut down and haul away, I will do it Free Of Charge! I have DSL now, but indoor plumbing is too modern for me!

Hyde Park Art Show

2006-10-24T09:43:00.000-07:00

October 1st 2006

Hyde Park Square Art Show
It was a perfect show in Hyde Park Square for their annual art show. The weather was pleasant, the crowd was friendly, and my artwork was well received. Thank you for the support of my good friends, old and new.

Photos by Judith Foster

Fresh Art 2006

2006-09-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

For the last 3 years, I have participated in Fresh Art. A fundraising activity for the Behringer Crawford Museum in Covington, KY. It's a great event where artists create a work of art in Devou park, where the musuem is located. At the end of the day, the artworks are exhibited in the musuem. The event concludes with dinner and an auction of the art for the musuem.
I decided to try something different this year. Rather than paint in the traditional "plein air" tradition, I followed the footsteps of Chagall and Matisse, and let my imagination help paint the painting. While looking at Cincinnati's skyline, I painted "porkopolis". I am glad that I tried something different. The painting won an honorable mention in the exhibit, and it auctioned for $300.
I will have prints of this painting available soon.

Bad BAD BLOGGER!!!

2006-09-11T13:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I've been a Bad BAD blogger.
I've left everyone wondering if i ever got home from my ridiculous bike trip to madison, IN. The third day was the most difficult. I did not sleep well the night before. It was hot, and mosquitoes were eating me through the hammock. I woke up to rain, and when 40-50 miles from home, I had a flat tire, and a hard time getting it repaired. Long story short. It was a lot of fun, and you can do whatever crazy thing you set your mind to! I enjoyed the trip, and will do it again. Too bad I didn't have a waterproof camera (you'd laugh at the picture of me soaking wet on the side of a road with a flat tire!)

Bike Trip day 2 of 3

2006-07-17T08:42:00.000-07:00

I woke at dawn, ate two bananas, and broke camp. I was seven miles from Rising Sun, IN.

Entering the town, I passed a picturesque field of cows with a red barn. The morning seemed full of possibilities. Rising Sun is building a reputation as an art colony on the Ohio River. It's economy has been primed by the arrival of a casino boat, and the opening of the Pendelton Art Center. Now with a handful of galleries and studios, it is becoming a destination for the art enthusiast.

I had breakfast at Around The Corner-coffee and wine shop, where I met owner and artist, Lynn Englar. She offers wines from Indiana wineries and is part of the Indiana Wine Trail. Lynn is an artist in many mediums. While living in California, she was a mural painter. She is an experienced sculptor and photographer. At the present, her shop features her paintings...fantastic images with a theme of women and wine.

The Pendleton Art Center was not scheduled to open until Wednesday. I told Lynn how much I regretted not being able to visit the center. The last time I visited Rising Sun, the center was not open either. Lynn gave a big smile, and opened a sliding glass door that connected her shop to the art center. She explained some of the artist's backgrounds, and showed me Olinka Broadfoot's exhibit in the main gallery.

After my morning birdbath in the town's public restroom, I mounted my bicycle and began the journey toward Madison, IN. My legs were stiff from the previous day's peddling, but after a while, i had a momentum that carried me the next 50 miles to Madison. The river provided rich soil for the farms and fields along the Ohio. While traveling, I received a few telephone calls from concerned friends and family, and walked while talking. My dad suggested that I stop at the closest bike shop to have the air in my tires checked. I used a racing bike with very small tires...I try and keep the tire pressure up to 100 pounds, which is not possible to maintain with

the emergency pump that I carry on my bike.

When I arrived in Madison, I stopped at a bike shop located on the main street. The mechanics checked my tire pressure, and I bought an adapter so that I could use regular (schrader) pumps on my bike's tires. The weather was very humid, and my legs were tired. When I arrived in Madison, I was glad to be at the turnaround part of my journey. It was about 4pm and the afternoon sun did not give many opportunities to take photographs. I took a single photo of me in front of madison's bridge, then beg

an the trip back home.

Madison's bridge to Kentucky is not bicycle friendly. It is wide enough for cars only, so I had to stop traffic while i crossed the river.

It was great to be back in Kentucky, and I was excited to get back home. I was hot, and my legs were feeling a bit sore. I made the mistake of passing grocery stores, thinking I would get a little more distance before stopping for dinner. Time passed, and i reached a point where I was starving, and there was no place to find food, or camp.
The sun began to set, and I began to get frantic, then I entered a small town with a small grocery store complete with bananas, yoghurt, and gatorade. I gratefully bought my dinner, then crawled into the woods for the night.

to be continued

Bike Trip Day 1 of 3

2006-07-13T10:57:00.001-07:00

This week, I decided to take a cycling trip from Augusta,KY to Madison,IN. After having breakfast, I left Augusta very nervous. I had never cycled such a distance, and I had never camped alone in the woods. After traveling about 10 miles, I realized that I had forgotten my bicycle lock. Rather than spend unnecessary money further down the road, I turned around and passed the nasty barking houndog, climbed the giant 1 1/2 mile hill, and retrieved the bicycle lock. I reassured myself that the goal of the trip was to learn about bicycle touring...not to cover a set distance in a set time.

About an hour after leaving Augusta for the second time, I was passed by a group of serious bikers. There were probably close to twenty in the group. All dressed in bright colored biker attire. They passed me with such a momentum, I felt like a child on a tricycle. The group was drafting off each other, and the only extra weight they carried was their water bottle, however, they triggered my competitive streak, and I began pushing myself harder...Hoping to keep up with their pace. After about 30 minutes hard cycling, I was relieved to see the last biker in the group take a different course.

I stopped at a recreation park outside mentor, KY. it had a series of bike trails that circled a cluster of baseball/soccer/football fields. I refilled my water bottles, and called my parents to let them know how the trip was going so far. I learned from my father, an experienced biker, that trying to pace with the group was a bad idea or a touring biker. He explained that I would be peddling all day (for days) and it is more important to maintain a comfortable pace than try to achieve any speed goals.

I began to enter Cincinnati metro area. Being Sunday, the traffic was not heavy. While approaching the cluster of bridges that connect Kentucky with Cincinnati, I was surprised at how quickly I covered such a distance. I now know that I can ride my bike into Cincinnati in about 3 hours. I kept my equipment very light with the mindset that most of what I need will be available while traveling. I made my first food stop at a Taco Bell, where I refueled with burritos and quesidillas. I followed the river along rt 8 out of the city until I reached the Anderson ferry. The ferry made me reminisce about our ferry in Augusta that crosses the Ohio...It seemed like a world away, even though I had only been on the road for a few hours.

On the Ohio side, I traveled along hwy 50. It was not as bicycle friendly as Kentucky's route 8. Although 50 was a four lane, it was much busier than kentucky's river road. It also lacked the "share the road" signs that provided a sense of safety. I peddled west, passing a series of factories, until I reached a grocery store, where I bought 3 bananas and 3 cups of yogurt.

Later that day, I crossed the state line, entering Indiana. At that point, I decided that I wanted to stop a few miles before Rising Sun, IN. I followed the signs for the Ohio River's scenic trail. It took me through old Lawenceburg, a town with some charming architecture, but dwarfed by a sprawling casino boat and factory industry. You would think that a city with so many revenue generating businesses would be able to afford to maintain their roads. Lawreneburg had the worst conditions for a bicycle...lots bumps, glass and potholes.

After traveling through Aurora, IN, I began to look for places to sleep for the night. I had my eyes peeled for something wooded, away from from a private residence, and without a No Tresspassing post. After finding the spot, I carried my bike down a small hill and set up my Hennessey Hammock, a combination tent/hammock. It was hard to make myself comfortable, because it was a hot day, and a humid night. I fell asleep listening to one of my favorite podcasts, woken by the snort of a deer. The woods were pitch black, speckled with firefly lights. A dog barked at me, as i drifted in and out of sleep.

To Be Continued

Blending work and leisure

2006-06-19T20:03:00.000-07:00

May has been a record setting busy month for me.

I started by running the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon. Months of training paid off, and I was able to complete the 26.2 mile race in 3 hours and 22 minutes. (Almost a full hour faster than last year's time!)

I finished the month by racing in Maysville's Triathlon. It was my first triathlon. I'd never swam in open water before, so it was a challenge, but my time was good. I finished the race in less than 2 hours. I was one of 3 local participants, racing with our region's more 'experienced' triathletes. My rank was in the middle of the pack. 33 out of 63.

Inbetween races, I was busy preparing for Augusta's "Art in the Garden". One of my two scheduled outdoor art shows this year. It was a great show with good turnout, and the sales were excellent.

I am returning 'home' to the DC area for a week.
I will be meeting my little brother's daughter "Mia" for the first time. I will also begin a new painting project. I am working on a series of scenes painted in Washington's historic U street district for my gallery at HomeGrown Creations. I may have some sneek peeks as a reward for the patient friends who still check my blog from time to time.

Then, I will slow down a bit and enjoy the artist's life.
I try to run, swim, bike or kayak every day. I am trying to incorporate the sports into my work. When possible, I carry a sketchpad and camera with me while biking/kayaking. I often think about paintings while swimming and running...especially while running through scenic landscapes.

Please comment on this blog and share your stories and suggestions for combining leisure activities with your art (and work). I want to combine my love of outdoor sports with my art. I feel a little guilty spending so much time running, biking, etc. But, if I can incorporate my hobby with my WORK, I won't feel like I am wasting my time so much...I'm WORKING! Yes, I realize that I am very fortunate to have WORK that I love and is fun...it just makes me feel DOUBLE guilty!

Have a great week!
Ken

Juried Art Shows

2006-05-03T06:37:00.000-07:00

Last month, i took 3 paintings to a jury for the Hyde Park Art show in Cincinnati, Ohio. I chose paintings that were similar in theme which I considered to be strong work.

The judging was held in a community center in the neighborhood where the show was to be held. I wasn't sure what to expect, but i was surpised to see over 100 artists waiting in line with a number.

One judge was assigned for each category, painting, crafts, sculpture, photography, etc. The judge for painting was a young woman, possibly younger than me.

While in line, I watched her body language while reviewing the other artist's work. She was animated, and having some intense dialogue with the artists. I noticed that when an artist brought work that I considered to be exceptionally well done, the judge would pick up her clipboard and make notes after the artist leaves. She did not do this after reviewing what I considered to be a weak body of work.

The Hyde Park Show is a very prestigious show in Cincinnati. It has a reputation for excellence, so all the best collectors and dealers attend and purchase. This makes the show very desirable for any artist in the region. Getting into this show is very important for my plan as an artist. I was at wits end when my number was finally called for judging.

While my work was being reviewed, I had no idea what kind of questions the judge would ask. Ideally, she would comment on how good the work was, and tell me that she definately wanted me in the show. That didn't exactly happen. Instead, she started critiquing my work. She suggested that I show how my paintings of farm animals interact with my life. She also warned that I might be at risk of producing gimmicky work. Finally, she added that she did not think that contemporary artists should sign the front of their work. It takes away from the art. You should sign either the matting or the back of the work.

I left the building with a sinking feeling in my gut. The judge did say nice things about my work also, but the negative things just stuck in my mind. It looked like in the corner of my eye, I saw her pick up her pen and clipboard...but maybe it was just to scratch her nose. I know that juries are very subjective, and not to take these things personal. It took a while to shake it of, after talking with a few friends who are successful artists. Experiences like this are common in the business. It was reassuring to hear that I am not the only one going through this process.

It turns out she was writing my name on the clipboard after all! I just received my letter of acceptance into the Hyde Park Art Show. Of course, you are all invited to attend. It will be October 1st, 2006 in Hyde Park Square.

I would be interested to hear what you think about this story. I know that everyone goes through this...especially artists who put a very personal type of work on display. I sure hope it gets easier...but it hasn't yet!

have a great week!
ken

The Bluegrass Biennial

2006-04-19T16:19:00.000-07:00

It is my pleasure to announce that my painting "Hen and Chicks" has been juried into the "Bluegrass biennial 2006" at the Claypool-Young Art Gallery at Morehead State Uniersity. This showcase of Kentucky's best artists is held every other summer.

I am shocked and proud that my work has been accepted into this show. I am pleased with the warm response given to my new body of work. If in the Morehead area, stop by to see the exhibit of Kentucky's finest artists.

It is from June 3rd-July 28 2006. The opening reception will be on Saturday, June 3rd 3:00-5:00. There will be refreshments and live music by Brett Ratcliff, an Eastern Kentucky old time acoustic musician.

Spring Fever

2006-03-11T11:49:00.000-08:00

Over the winter, I planned to use the 'inside time' to produce an abundance of work.
I was able to produce a series of paintings, but the cold weather and lack of sunshine
caused a mild depression which slowed down my motivation. I am grateful the winter
was not very severe this year.

Last month, I stayed warm at Homegrown Creations in Washington, DC.
to work on my indoor mural. I have finally gotten all of the walls covered with some paint. You
can see photos of the project by clicking here

I can't wait to dethaw my pottery studio.
It is difficult to keep my studio from freezing
during the cold months. Water is abundant in clay work, and when water freezes, it will
ruin a project. (similar to the way freezing water can crack concrete) I am excited to
get back to work in clay.

I am also excited to return to plein air painting.
It has been too cold to paint outside. I miss the fresh air and excitement of landscape painting. I have some specific plein air
projects that I am eager to begin. I will let you know how they develop.

In the past, I have cheated myself of the joy of spring by running south for the winter.
Here in the Midwest, we are getting the first signs of spring. The trees have a red glow,
and the bulbs are rising from the ground. I am discovering a new energy that comes
with the season. I am taking on new projects and utilizing my time better.

I am starting to feel that the new year brings great possibilities.
Now, I just need to get started on my spring cleaning. I'd like to know how you spent your winter. Do you
have seasonal projects that you are starting/finishing? Leave a comment to tell us about
spring where you live.

Art Competitions

2006-02-14T12:17:00.000-08:00

I am planning to enter a few competitions for exhibitions in my region.
I see it as a can't lose situation. If I am one of the fortunate artists to be selected for the prize, the reward is obvious. However, I believe the process of submitting my work is a reward in itself.
The competitions are providing short-term goals for my studio work.
It is very easy to get distracted with long term goals, such as an art show 4 months away. It's easy to procrastinate and lose focus.

One jury requires 20 samples of the artist's work.
This has been an excellent opportunity to work in a series. My 20 pieces will all relate to each other. I believe unity in the work will create a powerful display.

Competitions will help me develop my work.
I believe that artist's work is influenced by economic factors. Art that makes a good design in a home or office is easy to sell, but does not always express a complicated thought. I believe that museums and other exhibition venues are more interested in what the artist has to say than whether the work is pretty or easy to sell. This provides an excellent opportunity to experiment with new ideas and break comfortable molds with my art.

What do you think?
Does anyone have any positive or negative experiences with art competitions? Any suggestions for other artists? I would like to hear from you, so please leave a comment for everyone.

Have a great week!
ken

Communicating with art

2006-02-01T13:56:00.000-08:00

Communicating with art
This blog has been a great way to practice my writing skills.
I am not a natural writer, and posting a new blog each week can be a challenge. My ultimate goal is to improve my communication skills. The arts give us a unique way to communicate. A picture says 1000 words, a song can change your mood, and a book can change your mind. Our work as artists can do more than simply entertaining others, it can change their lives.
What do I want to say?
I am still developing my art, but try to use it to encourage others. I believe as artists, we should encourage others to peruse their own creative talents. Our society has too many negative stereotypes for artists. I wonder how many artists have not even tried due to fear of having a stereotype pinned on them? I want to be an example that you can follow your dream, be an artist, make a living, remain sane, sober and keep both ears attached.

What do you want to say?
Do you think about what you want to say when you create your art? Is there a single message you are communicating with your work? Can art be just for the sake of decoration and entertainment? What works of art that have left a strong impression on you (or society)? Please leave your comments on the blog, I look forward to hearing from you!

Have a great week!
peace
ken

specializing

2006-01-22T11:35:00.000-08:00

I have thought a lot about specializing.
My father once described a commercial he saw on german television: the commercial asks, 'which would you rather listen to?' showing first a plays all musician with cymbols on the knees, an accordian, and harmonica. The second image was a symphony violinist. The point he was trying to make was clear.

To make great things you have to focus.
A lot of marketing advice reccomends specializing. Do one thing, and do it well. Don't try and be everything to everyone. In order to become a master artist, you must focus your attention exclusively on your craft. Multi-tasking and 'having too many irons in the fire' can be counter-productive.

I can't focus, I want to do it all!
I paint: with oils, acrylics, watercolor...anything!
landscapes, portraits, whimsical, abstracts...depending on my mood. I work with clay and can't decide whether to work with functional (cups, bowls, etc) pottery or sculptural...so i do both. I tend to obsessively work on one thing until I reach a point where i am burnt out, and then i will shift to something else. It is a good cure for artist's block.

I am trying to tie everything together.
In spite of my different moods and mediums, a unique voice is developing. My style is a fusion of many different passions. I have been working in series with the idea that each painting will relate to the one painted before and after it. The goal is a uniform look when all the paintings are shown together in a room. It is hard sometimes to avoid tangents, but they can be the next series.

That's as close as I can get to specializing.
I know that not all artists have a problem with focus, because it shows in their work. I wonder if they had to struggle against the desire to 'try everything' before focusing? As I continue to develop, my many obsessions might fuse into one great work. I hope so.

Can anyone else relate to this?
I am interested in hearing any stories and suggestions. Are you a good multi-tasker? What techniques do you use to focus on a project? Do you know any successful 'jack-of-all trades'? What do you think was their secret?

I really would like to hear your comments...if you aren't sure how to post to the blog, feel free to email me: usartdude@hotmail.com

Here is my first post!

2006-01-15T11:44:00.000-08:00

I have finally gotten around to starting this blog.
I am looking forward to fine tuning my writing skills (and YOUR writing skills) . I do not want this blog to be like many that are one sided. Please participate, because it is boring to talk to yourself, or a wall, or a blog that no one ever reads!

One of my goals for 2006 is to create a stronger internet presence.
I live in a very remote part of kentucky and do not have internet at my house. I want to develop a workflow that allows me to keep my website, groups, blogs as close to real-time as possible. With the help of public libraries, hotspots, and friend's broadband, it is possible.

I am also going to make my webpage web standard compliant.
Basicaly, I will have to completely re-write my site, BUT it will be easy to update and it will work on any number of browser, machines, etc. I have ordered a book called "bulletproof web design". If you have any suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated.

I am continuing the traditional get fit resolution.
After running 2 marathons, i have become a full fledged madman. I am training for my 3rd which will be Cincinnati's Flying Pig Marathon. My goal is to complete the 26.2 mile race in less than 4 hours. This requires a strict regimen of running, exercise, diet and more running. Of course, i am interested in any fittness type discussions.

So, what about YOU?
I would like to hear what kind of resolutions you have made for the new year. Just think, if you share your resolutions with an audience, your chances for success are greater!

Thanks for Visiting (and posting)
I am going to try and post once a week, so please bookmark this blog and tell your friends!

have a great week
ken