Studio Notes: Water, Light, and Distance

I haven’t been posting every piece as it comes off the easel, but I’ve been painting constantly lately and wanted to share a small selection of what’s been emerging.

I’m exploring new combinations of watercolor, acrylic, charcoal, and other mixed media materials, following ideas that seem to unfold one painting at a time. Some days I lose track of the hours entirely.

At this point, every article of clothing I own bears paint marks, there’s usually pigment under my fingernails, and if you see me in person there’s a decent chance I’ll have paint on my forehead or chin as well.

A good problem to have.

This first piece (below) feels suspended between land and water. My favorite part is all those layers of indigo; it’s a quiet painting that reveals itself slowly.

Still Waters
11×14 mixed media on watercolor paper
$231 in-person/show pricing

I really want to do a giclée print of this one much larger. Take a look at the impact it would have:

The next one is titled Long Quiet, and it’s a luminous meeting of neutral tones, mineral greens (I go through greens like you wouldn’t believe), and soft aquas. The surface line dissolves into subtle drifts of color that suggest underwater growth. And omg, the deckled edges. I love those.

Here’s You Are Stardust, which is a small piece (6×8). Gold flecks filter downward through layers of cherry red and magenta. Celestial & celebratory!

You Are Stardust
6×8 mixed media on handcrafted paper
$72 in-person/show pricing

These are all in the Breathing Room collection, which now has about 15 paintings or so. And they are all being added to the growing pile I’m accumulating for a show this summer BUT if you see one you love, let me know and I’ll put your name on it. If you need shipping I’ll get back to you on what that will add to the price.

My work depends on my Patreon supporters…

If you’ve enjoyed following my work and would like to support what I do, consider joining me on Patreon.

Between teaching eight university classes each semester and taking on freelance projects, dedicated studio time is precious. Patreon supporters help create the space for new paintings, experiments, and collections to come into being.

Their support makes it possible for me to spend more time in the studio and less time chasing the next contract. I’m deeply grateful for every member of this community.