In Progress (new work)

Very recently I've had a rush of creative energy and I've been working in my studio more frequently. It feels great to 'get back to  work' so to speak and draw, paint, and expand upon ideas and themes I've been thinking about for a while. I am definitely still interested in using found and historical imagery within my pieces. Below are a few snapshots of what I've been working on. 

Also, if you're interested in getting to learn about my personal approach to creating art, I've been sending out monthly newsletters that explain my artistic interests and activities. Please feel free to sign up.

 

 

My New Studio

John and I recently purchased a two bedroom condo in Oak Park and we are finally all moved in, settled, and already working on painting some walls. In addition to our own storage locker, the condo came with a work-room, which I'll be using as a studio. Having a studio was a condo wishlist option that was unexpected, but highly appreciated. I've already been a lot more productive and energized with a set space for making art, which is helping me get ready for my August exhibition Made Manifest, at the Oak Park Public Library. Stay tuned for more fancy things to come!

Tate Britain

Old and new art thrive together at the Tate Britain in Millbank, London. Situated relatively close to the Houses of Parliament along the Thames River, Tate Britain, formerly known as the National Gallery of British Art, houses a great array of art and is one of the largest national collections. On my trip, besides focusing on museums as my points of interest, I had specific artworks in mind that I was very eager to seek out (such as The Swing).  

At the Tate Britain, I was very eager to see Sir John Everett Millais' Ophelia. Ophelia being the tragic maiden featured in Shakespeare's Macbeth. Millais, a Pre-Raphaelite painter, portrays Ophelia in a creek filled with spring foliage that contrasts her entranced sad and somber face. The bittersweet portrayl is breathtaking and captivating to witness in-person.

Tate Britain had other wonderful portraits, sculptures, and installations. There were expressive Turner seascapes, mythical and alluring Blake drawings, and lots of contemporary sculpture. An unfinished version of Madame X by John Singer Sargent, was shown with an unnerving ghostly figure tucked into the bottom left corner of the canvas (pictured below). 

I was really amazed at the variety of art at Tate Britain. I felt it had many paintings of truly unusual quality and, in particular, contained many portraits that were unique and incredibly expressive.