Jeffrey Hayes: Contemporary Still Life Paintings

In progress

2012-01-24T13:45:00.001-08:00

I start the glazing today. The first step is going to be applying a preliminary on the gold cloth.

"Sushi Triplet with Chopsticks"

2012-01-22T11:36:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Sushi Triplet with Chopsticks", 2007
Oil on canvas, 12 x 24 inches (30 x 60 cm)
$1500 (purchase information)

I only recently started eating and enjoying sushi, but I've been painting it for years; a well prepared plate of sushi is a work of art in itself. From 2007, this is one of my absolute favorites in the series, and also one of the largest.

Captive Lemon

2012-01-16T09:40:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Captive Lemon", 2007
Oil on canvas, 30 x 24 inches (75 x 60 cm)
$2500 (offers are considered)

"Captive Lemon" is from 2007; about the time I started to adopt the style I paint with now. It's interesting to see some of the early choices I made to capture the sense of realism; in particular the exaggerated refractions and other light effects.

Although I would probably paint this differently today, I like this piece a lot, and am always proud to show it.

New Archive and Waiting List

2012-01-13T11:59:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)
"Silver Creamer and Peeled Orange"
Oil on panel, 5 x 6 inches (12 x 15 cm)

I've expanded the archive page on my website to include selected paintings going back to 2007. This gives a broader view of my work, and lets me display some older pieces that I like but haven't shown in a while.

I've also added a new Waiting List feature: All of my previously sold works will now have a link to contact me beneath them (for instance on this painting's detail page). If you're interested in owning a similar piece, you can send me an email and I will add you to my waiting list. You will get a notice from me when work like it becomes available. I will never share your information with anyone.

Thanks!

Cork, Shaker, and Shotglass

2012-01-10T19:32:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Cork, Shaker, and Shotglass"
Oil on panel, 5 x 5 inches (13 x 13 cm)
$450 + shipping/insurance
Framing options are available.

Price Adjustments and Timed Payments

2012-01-08T10:59:00.000-08:00

I'd like to announce two changes related to purchasing my paintings.

First, on February 1, 2012, I will be adjusting prices upwards on my smaller works (those under $300). Prior to doing so, however, I wanted to make sure that everybody who had their eye on one of these paintings had the chance to purchase it at the current, lower price. I've put together a special page of the pieces that will be affected by this change. The lower prices will remain in effect only through the remainder of January - don't delay!

Second, I'm now offering a timed payment option for purchasing all of my paintings priced $500 and above. These arrangements are determined individually with each prospective collector, but generally consist of a down payment followed by several monthly installments; the artwork then ships after full payment is made. If there is a painting you would like to purchase in this way, or if you have any other questions, please contact me to discuss it. These larger works can all be seen on my Available Paintings page.

Thank you!

Orange, Creamer, and Knife

2012-01-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Orange, Creamer, and Knife"
Oil on panel, 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20 cm)
$950 + shipping/insurance
Framing options are available.

I arrange the majority of my still life paintings in a shadow box in my studio. Occasionally, though, I like to set up the compositions elsewhere. For this painting, it was the living room window overlooking my back yard. I love the gentle quality of the northern light, and also the way the silver creamer captures the reflections of the living room itself as well as the exterior landscape.

In progress

2011-12-26T14:30:00.001-08:00

The underpainting for this large (24x24) piece is finished now. Can't wait for it to fully dry so I can move on to the glazing.

Daisy in a Vase

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Daisy in a Vase"
Oil on panel, 6 x 5 inches (15 x 13 cm)
$350 + shipping/insurance
Framing options are available.

I haven't done too many floral paintings in my career, but every time I do, I realize what I'm missing. Studying some of the great large floral paintings by the Dutch Golden Age masters, in particular Rachel Ruysch, has gotten me interested in doing some more ambitious floral compositions.

Chinese Tea No. 3

2011-12-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Chinese Tea No. 3"
Oil on panel, 5 x 5 inches (13 x 13 cm)
$350 + shipping/insurance
Framing options are available.

I'm sometimes interested in creating multiple paintings using the same items. This particular painting is the final of a series of three that were made using a wonderful clay Chinese teapot and porcelain teacup. The other two members can be seen here and here.

Audience No. 4

2011-12-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Audience No. 4"
Oil on panel, 3.5 x 3.5 inches (9 x 6 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 9 x 8 inches (23 x 20 cm)
$185 + shipping/insurance

I have a small collection of stone eggs, and when I'm in a playful mood in the studio, they can be some of my favorite things to paint. They also always seem to suggest a storyline. I was amused by the idea of arranging the small glass marbles as though they were present for an audience with the Important Egg.

This piece is available for immediate purchase using the above button. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Antique Marbles No. 7

2011-12-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 7"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Purchase Information

Several years ago I purchased a set of antique marbles, and have been painting them ever since. It's a great subject for me, with an endless variety of colors, reflections, and highlights.

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's under 2 x 2 inches, or about the same size as a large postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 6 x 6 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

This is the perfect opportunity to own one of my original paintings for less than $100! Purchase information is here.

Audience No. 3

2011-12-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Audience No. 3"
Oil on panel, 3.5 x 3.5 inches (9 x 6 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 9 x 8 inches (23 x 20 cm)
$185 + shipping/insurance

I have a small collection of stone eggs, and when I'm in a playful mood in the studio, they can be some of my favorite things to paint. They also always seem to suggest a storyline. I was amused by the idea of arranging the small glass marbles as though they were present for an audience with the Important Egg.

This piece is available for immediate purchase using the above button. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Antique Marbles No. 10

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 10"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Metal and Wood No. 1

2011-11-29T08:57:00.001-08:00

I pulled this painting out to show somebody. I think it looks great up on the easel!

Audience No. 1

2011-11-29T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Audience No. 1"
Oil on panel, 3.5 x 3.5 inches (9 x 6 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 9 x 8 inches (23 x 20 cm)
$185 + shipping/insurance

I have a small collection of stone eggs, and when I'm in a playful mood in the studio, they can be some of my favorite things to paint. They also always seem to suggest a storyline. I was amused by the idea of arranging the small glass marbles as though they were present for an audience with the Important Egg.

This piece is available for immediate purchase using the above button. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Antique Marbles No. 21

2011-11-28T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 21"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Forum No. 4

2011-11-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Forum No. 4"
Oil on panel, 2 x 5 inches (5 x 12 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 8 x 11 inches (20 x 28 cm)
$225 + shipping/insurance

I love painting marbles in general, and groupings of them provide almost everything that make a good painting; color, texture, light, reflection. I couldn't resist taking it a step further, and indulging in the playfulness of imagining them as gathering in a civic forum to discuss the weighty issues of the day.

This piece is available for immediate purchase using the above button. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Antique Marbles No. 6

2011-11-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 6"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Forum No. 3

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Forum No. 3"
Oil on panel, 2 x 5 inches (5 x 12 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 8 x 11 inches (20 x 28 cm)
$225 + shipping/insurance

I love painting marbles in general, and groupings of them provide almost everything that make a good painting; color, texture, light, reflection. I couldn't resist taking it a step further, and indulging in the playfulness of imagining them as gathering in a civic forum to discuss the weighty issues of the day.

This piece is available for immediate purchase using the above button. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Antique Marbles No. 23

2011-11-24T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 23"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Forum No. 2

2011-11-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Forum No. 2"
Oil on panel, 2 x 5 inches (5 x 12 cm), framed
Sold

I love painting marbles in general, and groupings of them provide almost everything that make a good painting; color, texture, light, reflection. I couldn't resist taking it a step further, and indulging in the playfulness of imagining them as gathering in a civic forum to discuss the weighty issues of the day.

Antique Marbles No. 13

2011-11-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 13"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Forum No. 1

2011-11-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Forum No. 1"
Oil on panel, 2 x 5 inches (5 x 12 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 8 x 11 inches (20 x 28 cm)
$225 + shipping/insurance

I love painting marbles in general, and groupings of them provide almost everything that make a good painting; color, texture, light, reflection. I couldn't resist taking it a step further, and indulging in the playfulness of imagining them as gathering in a civic forum to discuss the weighty issues of the day.

This piece is available for immediate purchase using the above button. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Antique Marbles No. 16

2011-11-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 16"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Walnuts, Wine, and Pumpkin

2011-11-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Walnuts, Wine, and Pumpkin"
Oil on linen, 7 x 10 inches (18 x 25 cm), framed (see below)
Dimensions with frame: 11 x 14 inches (28 x 35 cm)
$750 + shipping/insurance

"Walnuts, Wine, and Pumpkin" is the final of a series of three matching paintings exploring my artistic roots in classical Dutch still life painting (the first and second can be seen here and here, respectively).

My concern with the rhythm of the objects was a little simplified with this piece, and I focused more on the drama of the light. Particularly, I was interested in how the light seemed to "turn" as it fell on the form of the pumpkin, and the elegant crimson hue the light acquired as it passed through the wine.

This piece is available for immediate purchase using the above button. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Antique Marbles No. 19

2011-11-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 19"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Walnuts and Wine

2011-11-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Walnuts and Wine"
Oil on linen, 7 x 10 inches (18 x 25 cm), framed (see below)
Dimensions with frame: 11 x 14 inches (28 x 35 cm)
$750 + shipping/insurance

"Walnuts and Wine" is the second of a series of three matching paintings. As I mentioned in the post for the first painting, I'm very interested in the lively sense of rhythm with which the great Dutch still life masters arranged a few simple objects. Of the three, this piece is the simplest, and I wanted that sparseness so I could refine that rhythmic cadence in a pure form.

With this piece I also enjoyed working with the very subtle light, in particular the way the light passed through the wineglass and illuminated the walnut directly to it's right with a deep red partial shadow.

This piece is available for immediate purchase using the above button. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Antique Marbles No. 14

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 14"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

In progress

2011-11-15T11:39:00.001-08:00

Here's the detailed sketch for the large painting (24x24) I'm currently working on. I use the grid-transfer method to scale up from my sketch. The shaded areas are not there to indicate volume, lighting, and form, as might be the case with pure drawing. They're there to help with differentiating the patterns of light & dark when I do the underpainting.

Walnuts, Lemon, and Wine

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Walnuts, Lemon, and Wine"
Oil on linen, 7 x 10 inches (18 x 25 cm), framed (see below)
Dimensions with frame: 11 x 14 inches (28 x 35 cm)
$750 + shipping/insurance

"Walnuts, Lemon, and Wine" is the first of a series of three matching paintings. It's clear that for the most part I look backwards for inspiration, to the Dutch still life masters of 350 years ago. In particular, I'm always amazed at their uncanny ability to arrange their compositions with an nearly musical sense of rhythm, phrase, and cadence. Given my own musical background, that obviously appeals to me in a deep way.

With these three pieces, I not only wanted to take the opportunity to work with their visual language, but also to explore arranging simple objects - a few nuts, a lemon, a glass of wine - in a lively, rhythmic way.

This piece is available for immediate purchase using the above button. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Fragment: Antique Copper Tankard

2011-11-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Fragment: Antique Copper Tankard"
Oil on panel, 2 x 0.5 inches (5 x 1 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 7 x 5 inches (18 x 12 cm)
$85 + shipping

Purchase Information

I love the look and feel of this aged copper tankard. I can just about imagine sitting in front of a fire in an old tavern, with this tankard in front of me full of ale (warm, of course!)

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's 2 x 0.5 inches, or about the same area as a postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 7 x 5 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

This is the perfect opportunity to own one of my original paintings for less than $100! Purchase information is here.

Lemon No. 6

2011-11-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger views)

"Lemon No. 6"
Oil on panel, 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm), framed, see below
Dimensions with frame, 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20 cm)
$185 + shipping

This painting is a member of a now long-running series of fruit and vegetable studies. There's something rich, elemental, and comforting about well-painted food; it's one of my favorite subjects to work with.

Antique Marbles No. 12

2011-11-12T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 12"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Sold

Several years ago I purchased a set of antique marbles, and have been painting them ever since. It's a great subject for me, with an endless variety of colors, reflections, and highlights.

Red Apple No. 3

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger views)

"Red Apple No. 3"
Oil on panel, 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm), framed, see below
Dimensions with frame, 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20 cm)
$185 + shipping

Fragment: Fresh Lemon

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Fragment: Fresh Lemon"
Oil on panel, 2 x 0.5 inches (5 x 1 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 7 x 5 inches (18 x 12 cm)
$85 + shipping

Purchase Information

I LOVE everything about lemons: the smell, taste, texture, feel, and especially the color. I cook with them all the time, and paint them as much as I can.

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's 2 x 0.5 inches, or about the same area as a postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 7 x 5 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

This is the perfect opportunity to own one of my original paintings for less than $100! Purchase information is here.

Red Onion No. 3

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger views)

"Red Onion No. 3"
Oil on panel, 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm), framed, see below
Dimensions with frame, 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20 cm)
$185 + shipping

Antique Marbles No. 11

2011-11-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 11"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Lemon No. 3

2011-11-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger views)

"Lemon No. 3"
Oil on panel, 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm), framed, see below
Dimensions with frame, 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20 cm)
$185 + shipping

Fragment: Suspended Bottle

2011-11-06T06:00:00.000-08:00

(click image for larger view)

"Fragment: Suspended Bottle"
Oil on panel, 2 x 0.5 inches (5 x 1 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 7 x 5 inches (18 x 12 cm)
$85 + shipping

Purchase Information

I enjoy painting bottles, but sometimes a simple bottle sitting on a shelf lacks interest. The same object suspended from a string becomes... well... a very different object.

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's 2 x 0.5 inches, or about the same area as a postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 7 x 5 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

This is the perfect opportunity to own one of my original paintings for less than $100! Purchase information is here.

Leonardo's Drapery Studies

2011-11-05T22:24:00.000-07:00

I started a large painting today with a lot of drapery folds, and it made me want to have a look at Da Vinci's drapery studies. I couldn't find one page that contained a large grouping of them, so I decided to put one together here. Although I probably should include them with titles, materials, and dimensions, I really don't feel like taking the time. That information is easily found on a quick Google search. Hopefully others get as much from studying them as I do.

Still life set-up

2011-11-05T14:35:00.001-07:00

This is what a still life set up looks like in my shadow box (I've written about the box here)

This is going to be the basis for a new large painting. Since I've posted about it at the very earliest phase, I'll be sure to include in progress updates as I go along.

2 Bottles and Magnifying Glass

2011-11-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

"2 Bottles and Magnifying Glass", 2009
Oil on panel, 5 x 2 inches (12 x 5 cm), framing optional
~~$175~~ $100 + shipping

A few years ago I became really interested in compositions that were fragments of bigger designs, cropped in unusual ways. It hasn't really figured into much of my painting lately, but I love the idea and the results, such as this piece. I also fully expect I'll experiment more with it in the future.

"2 Bottles and Magnifying Glass" is one of the few remaining paintings I have from 2009 and before. Rather than leaving it in my studio, I'd prefer that it be enjoyed by a collector, so I'm offering it at a special price. To see the handful of other earlier pieces that are also available, please visit my Special Offers Page.

Several framing options are available for this painting; please select from the drop-down list below the "Buy It Now" button. To see the options, please visit this page.

Antique Marbles No. 22

2011-11-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 22"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Fragment: Bottleneck No. 6

2011-11-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

"Fragment: Bottleneck No. 6", 2009
Oil on panel, 2.5 x 3.5 inches (6 x 9 cm), framing optional
~~$125~~ $95 + shipping

A few years ago I became really interested in compositions that were fragments of bigger designs, cropped in unusual ways. It hasn't really figured into much of my painting lately, but I love the idea and the results, such as this piece. I also fully expect I'll experiment more with it in the future.

"Fragment: Bottleneck No. 6" is one of the few remaining paintings I have from 2009 and before. Rather than leaving it in my studio, I'd prefer that it be enjoyed by a collector, so I'm offering it at a special price. To see the handful of other earlier pieces that are also available, please visit my Special Offers Page.

Several framing options are available for this painting; please select from the drop-down list below the "Buy It Now" button. To see the options, please visit this page.

Fragment: Venetian Glass

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Fragment: Venetian Glass"
Oil on panel, 2 x 0.5 inches (5 x 1 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 7 x 5 inches (18 x 12 cm)
$85 + shipping

Purchase Information

I loved the challenge of trying to suggest some of the complexity of this highly decorated piece of Venetian glass on such a small scale. In then end, of course, that's all painters CAN do... suggest.

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's 2 x 0.5 inches, or about the same area as a postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 7 x 5 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

This is the perfect opportunity to own one of my original paintings for less than $100! Purchase information is here.

In Progress

2011-11-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

As you can probably guess from my in-progress posts, I work on many different paintings at a time - usually 5 or 6, and often more. Part of it is just temperament, but a big part of it is process: Glazing requires thorough drying before the next layer can be applied. Although I spent the entire day on this painting, and made a lot of good headway, I now won't be able to touch it again for at least another week.

Fragment: Knife, Bottles, and Glass

2011-11-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

"Fragment: Knife, Bottles, and Glass", 2009
Oil on panel, 2.5 x 3.5 inches (6 x 9 cm), framing optional
~~$125~~ $95 + shipping

A few years ago I became really interested in compositions that were fragments of bigger designs, cropped in unusual ways. It hasn't really figured into much of my painting lately, but I love the idea and the results, such as this piece. I also fully expect I'll experiment more with it in the future.

"Fragment: Knife, Bottles, and Glass" is one of the few remaining paintings I have from 2009 and before. Rather than leaving it in my studio, I'd prefer that it be enjoyed by a collector, so I'm offering it at a special price. To see the handful of other earlier pieces that are also available, please visit my Special Offers Page.

Several framing options are available for this painting; please select from the drop-down list below the "Buy It Now" button. To see the options, please visit this page.

Antique Marbles No. 15

2011-10-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 15"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Glass Cruet No. 2

2011-10-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

"Glass Cruet No. 2", 2007
Oil on panel, 6 x 8 inches (15 x 20 cm), framing optional
~~$250~~ $150 + shipping

This painting is really a study of the highlights, reflections, and refractions that show up when a piece of brightly lit glass is placed against a dark background. These kinds of optical effects fascinate me to no end.

"Glass Cruet No. 2" is one of the few remaining paintings I have from 2009 and before. Rather than leaving it in my studio, I'd prefer that it be enjoyed by a collector, so I'm offering it at a special price. To see the handful of other earlier pieces that are also available, please visit my Special Offers Page.

Several framing options are available for this painting; please select from the drop-down list below the "Buy It Now" button. To see the options, please visit this page.

Fragment: Orange on a Pedestal

2011-10-29T06:00:00.001-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Fragment: Orange on a Pedestal"
Oil on panel, 2 x 0.5 inches (5 x 1 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 7 x 5 inches (18 x 12 cm)
$85 + shipping

Purchase Information

HINT: The Holidays are coming!

It isn't really a pedestal - it's simply some silk fabric wrapped around a brick, tied up with twine. But somehow it gives it a monumental feel, even on such a small scale.

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's 2 x 0.5 inches, or about the same area as a postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 7 x 5 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

This is the perfect opportunity to own one of my original paintings for less than $100! Purchase information is here.

Fragment: Glass and Red Bowl No. 2

2011-10-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

"Fragment: Glass and Red Bowl No. 2", 2009
Oil on panel, 2.5 x 3.5 inches (6 x 9 cm), framing optional
~~$125~~ $95 + shipping

A few years ago I became really interested in compositions that were fragments of bigger designs, cropped in unusual ways. It hasn't really figured into much of my painting lately, but I love the idea and the results, such as this piece. I also fully expect I'll experiment more with it in the future.

"Fragment: Glass and Red Bowl No. 2" is one of the few remaining paintings I have from 2009 and before. Rather than leaving it in my studio, I'd prefer that it be enjoyed by a collector, so I'm offering it at a special price. To see the handful of other earlier pieces that are also available, please visit my Special Offers Page.

Several framing options are available for this painting; please select from the drop-down list below the "Buy It Now" button. To see the options, please visit this page.

In Progress

2011-10-27T15:10:00.001-07:00

There's still a lot of work to do on this one, but it's pretty clear what's going on, so I thought I'd show it.

Antique Marbles No. 20

2011-10-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 20"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Purchase Information

HINT: The Holidays are coming!

Several years ago I purchased a set of antique marbles, and have been painting them ever since. It's the perfect subject for me, with an endless variety of colors, reflections, and highlights.

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's under 2 x 2 inches, or about the same size as a large postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 6 x 6 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

This is the perfect opportunity to own one of my original paintings for less than $100! Purchase information is here.

Salt Shakers on Silk

2011-10-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

"Salt Shakers on Silk", 2009
Oil on panel, 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20 cm)
SOLD

This painting, believe it or not, was inspired by some of the architecture I saw during a trip to India in 2008. It's hardly a straight line between what I saw there and what I painted here, but there is an echo of the domes, minarets, gates, and towers.

If anybody is interested, I wrote a number of posts during and immediately after that trip, which can be seen here (note, they are in reverse order, so scroll down to start from the beginning).

"Salt Shakers on Silk", is one of the few remaining paintings I have from 2009 and before. Rather than leaving it in my studio, I'd prefer that it be enjoyed by a collector, so I'm offering it at a special price. To see the handful of other earlier pieces that are also available, please visit my Special Offers Page.

Fragment: Suspended Plant Mister

2011-10-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Fragment: Suspended Plant Mister"
Oil on panel, 2 x 0.5 inches (5 x 1 cm)

Sold

This metallic plant mister was a garage-sale purchase, and for the longest time it just sat in my props closet - I really didn't know what to do with it. While working on a few other pieces that involved hanging objects from string, I decided to try this as well, and I'm delighted with the result.

"Unagi, Tamago"

2011-10-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Unagi, Tamago", 2007
Oil on panel, 10 x 10 inches (25 x 25 cm), framed
Dimensions with frame: 15 x 15 inches (38 x 38 cm)
~~$450~~ $250 + shipping

HINT: The Holidays are coming!

These are two fairly unusual pieces of sushi, at least to those of us who are not connoisseurs (and I am certainly not). Unagi, on the left, is fresh-water eel, while Tamago, on the right, is a sweet omelette, cut into smaller rectangles. I love the presentation of both, particularly wrapped with strips of black seaweed.

"Unagi, Tamago", from 2007, is one of the few remaining paintings I have from prior to 2009. Rather than leaving it in my studio, I'd prefer that it be enjoyed by a collector, so I'm offering it at a special price. To see the handful of other pieces that are also available from 2009 and before, please visit my Special Offers Page.

Antique Marbles No. 17

2011-10-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Antique Marbles No. 17"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)

SOLD

Several years ago I purchased a set of antique marbles, and have been painting them ever since. It's the perfect subject for me, with an endless variety of colors, reflections, and highlights.

Two Knives, Glass, Screwdriver

2011-10-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

"Two Knives, Glass, Screwdriver", 2009
Oil on panel, 2 x 5 inches (5 x 12 cm), framing optional
~~$175~~ $100 + shipping

HINT: The Holidays are coming!

A few years ago I became really interested in compositions that were fragments of bigger designs, cropped in unusual ways. It hasn't really figured into much of my painting lately, but I love the idea and the results, such as this piece. I also fully expect I'll experiment more with it in the future.

"Two Knives, Glass, Screwdriver", is one of the few remaining paintings I have from 2009 and before. Rather than leaving it in my studio, I'd prefer that it be enjoyed by a collector, so I'm offering it at a special price. To see the handful of other earlier pieces that are also available, please visit my Special Offers Page.

Several framing options are available for this painting; please select from the drop-down list below the "Buy It Now" button. To see the options, please visit this page.

Peeling Orange on a Brick

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Peeling Orange on a Brick"
Oil on panel, 6 x 5 inches (15 x 13 cm)

Sold

I've mentioned in one of my previous posts that the peeled orange had significance in Dutch Golden Age still lifes, as a symbol of impermanance and transience. I wanted to take it one step further, and have the orange as the sole focus as the composition - a fragile thing, caught in a moment of time.

This is by no means a formal announcement, but... For a long time I've wanted to make Giclee prints available of my paintings, and I'm now well into the process of making that a reality. It's still some time off, but my goal is to be able to offer high quality, affordable reproductions of my paintings by the end of the year.

I believe prints of this painting will be the first. I'll keep everybody informed, and hopefully a few of you will be looking forward to that!

Blue Knight

2011-10-20T10:42:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Blue Knight", 2007
Oil on panel, 8 x 6 inches (20 x 15 cm), framed
Dimensions with frame: 13 x 11 inches (33 x 28 cm)
~~$250~~ $150 + shipping

"Blue Knight", from 2007, is one of the few remaining paintings I have from prior to 2009. Rather than leaving it in my studio, I'd prefer that it be enjoyed by a collector, so I'm offering it at a special price. To see the handful of other pieces that are also available from 2009 and before, please visit my Special Offers Page.

Fall 2011 Special Offers

2011-10-19T10:24:00.000-07:00

Since beginning my career as a professional artist, I've sold approximately 95% of the work I've produced. It's a record that any artist could be very proud of, and I certainly am, but it also means that there are still a small number of paintings that have not yet found homes.

Rather than leaving them in my studio, I'd prefer they be enjoyed, so I've decided to offer all my paintings from 2009 and before at extremely affordable prices. Whether you are a regular collector of my work, wishing to acquire your first piece, or are looking forward to holiday gift-giving, this is a terrific opportunity to own one or more of my paintings, in some cases for less than $100. Several of these pieces are already framed, and the rest can be purchased unframed or with 3 beautiful framing options.

To see the paintings, please visit my Special Offers Gallery, and over the next few days I'll be displaying them individually here on the blog.

Thanks!

Big Milestone

2011-10-18T11:20:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, a milestone came and passed without me even realizing it: 6 years of writing this blog. Back then, my good friends Skott Klebe and Chris Howard said I should think about writing a blog, since people might be interested in the process of making paintings. I rather doubted anybody would be all that interested in the process of making paintings, but I decided to give it a go... maybe for a month or two, anyway.

6 Years & 20 days, 823 Posts, 289,755 visitors, and 597,529 page views later, I'm still at it, and now see the wisdom of Skott & Chris' suggestion (thanks guys!).

Times change, Facebook and Twitter have competed for readers' attentions, but ultimately I see them as all complementary. Over the years, I've occasionally taken extended breaks from blogging, but always felt like something was missing, and have always been really happy when I've returned to the regular practice of sharing my thoughts and paintings here.

Most importantly, I know a core of interested readers have stuck by me here, and for that I'm super grateful. Blogging is a little bit like tossing messages in bottles out into the ocean, but I know they're definitely being picked up, dusted off, and read.

Thanks everybody!

Oh, and just for fun, here's that very first post, from September 29, 2005. Hopefully, I've come a long way since then: http://jeffhayesfinearts.blogspot.com/2005/09/fresh-paint-crystal-stopper.html

New Format

2011-10-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

I spent a little time today reworking the format for this blog, hopefully to clean it up a little, and improve the look and feel. I may still fine-tune a few details, but think I've got an overall solution at the moment.

I'd love to hear your feedback - both good AND critical - particularly about the readability and view-ability of the images.

Thanks!
Jeff

FOLLOW UP: Thanks everybody for the comments, both public and private - I really appreciate the feedback! Though they were mixed, there were enough critical reactions to the redesign that I felt it was important to make some adjustments - it's all about displaying the paintings to good effect, not making a neat blog design!

Charley Parker of Lines and Colors (there probably isn't anybody who knows more about how to effectively display artwork online) generously offered some specific suggestions which I've implemented to the limits of the software I use. Thanks Charley!

And thanks again to everybody who responded - it definitely makes this a better blog!

In progress

2011-10-15T14:38:00.001-07:00

I believe this is more or less complete. Glazing really does provide a richness and depth of color that can't be achieved any other way. As always, I'll take final images once it's fully dried and varnished.

In progress

2011-10-14T17:01:00.001-07:00

Here is what's currently on my easel (it's 6x5"). Undergoing the final glazes to correct values & colors, and fine-tune details. I offer it up with the usual caveat about poor iPhone picture quality (now I want an iPhone 4s!)

Fragment: Copper Tankard

2011-10-13T10:37:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Fragment: Copper Tankard"
Oil on panel, 2 x 0.5 inches (5 x 1 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 7 x 5 inches (18 x 12 cm)
$85 + shipping

Purchase Information

I like working big, but I love working small. The challenge of making a complete, yet miniature painting, is very attractive to me. Somehow, this copper tankard sitting on a piece of cloth draped over a brick felt like a larger composition.

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's 2 x 0.5 inches, or about the same area as a postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 7 x 5 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

This is the perfect opportunity to own one of my original paintings for less than $100! Purchase information is here.

Silver Creamer and Peeled Orange

2011-10-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Silver Creamer and Peeled Orange"
Oil on panel, 5 x 6 inches (12 x 15 cm)
Framing options are available.

The peeled orange is an object that appears in many Dutch Golden Age still lifes - mostly, I believe, as symbol for the transience of life. While I didn't have such overt symbolism in mind, it does have a poignant feeling that I enjoyed working with - very much a moment frozen in time.

Sebastian Stoskopff

2011-10-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

Sebastian Stoskopff
Still Life of Glasses in a Basket, 1644
Oil, 20 x 25 inches

One of the happiest parts of my day is the time I spend on my EyeCandy Twitter posts, where I feature a still life painting that interests me. And one of the happiest parts of that is finding great painters I wasn't previously aware of. It's also tremendously gratifying to be able to share those discoveries with others.

Case in point is Sebastian Stoskopff, who was a great, great 17th Century Alsatian painter specializing in still life, and nowhere nearly as well know as I think he should be. After I wrote my bit on Twitter, Charley Parker of the amazing Lines and Colors blog picked up on it, and found a few other images I was unaware of. He then followed up on it with a nice posting on the blog today.

It's great to be able to find these gems and pass them on to others!

In Progress

2011-10-06T22:03:00.001-07:00

In Progress: the first glaze. Subsequent layers will focus on color correction and harmonization, and then some of the finer details.

Currently in-progress

2011-10-04T12:39:00.001-07:00

This is the underpainting for my next in-progress still life (I usually have 6 or 7 underway at the same time). It's 8x8 inches, and I'll be applying the first glaze layers today.

Just finished

2011-10-03T11:41:00.001-07:00

I just finished this 5x5" still life this afternoon. I'll post final (and MUCH better) photos of it once it's dried and varnished.

Finished underpainting

2011-09-30T15:20:00.001-07:00

Today's finished underpainting. I feel like this one is just begging for an interesting title.

Random Studio Scene

2011-09-30T13:47:00.001-07:00

I thought this was kind of a cool scene in my studio this afternoon.

Daisy in a Vase

2011-09-27T12:40:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Daisy in a Vase"
Oil on panel, 6 x 5 inches (15 x 13 cm)
Framing options are available.

Next step in the process

2011-09-27T12:09:00.001-07:00

Here is the somewhat detailed drawing that I base the underpainting on.

Arch Paintings

2011-09-27T08:58:00.001-07:00

I'm doing a small series of still lifes of items suspended on a string, enclosed within a gilded, Moorish-style arch.

The first step is painting the arch, which is a base of Indian Red covered with several glazes of gold pigment.

My Killer-Sized Mahl Stick

2011-09-22T07:28:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I posted a picture of me at work, and a friend on Facebook asked if that was my "killer-sized mahl stick". Yeah, it was, and I also realized that people might be interested in the design, since it's a piece of do-it-yourself studio equipment.

For those who may not be familiar, mahl sticks are simple devices, really nothing more than a stick, often with some padding on the end of it, that allows an artist to have a stable place to hold his/her hand without letting their wrist touch the painting surface. As you can see in the photo below, my wrist is solidly resting on the stick, exactly in the position where I need it to be to do the kind of fine detailed painting I do, while there is no danger that my hand would actually touch the painting itself.

The design is as simple as could be. From my local hardware, I got a 3-foot long, 1/2 thick round oak dowel. At one end I screwed in an open eye-hook to allow me to hang it off a hook on my easel. For comfort during extended painting sessions, I sheathed the dowel in foam tube insulation, of the type used to wrap copper heating pipes. This can easily be removed if I need greater maneuverability.

It's extremely functional, strong, and durable. It's also easy to make, and I doubt if I spent $5 on the entire project.

Teacup on Green Marble

2011-09-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Teacup on Green Marble"
Oil on panel, 5 x 6 inches (12 x 15 cm)

Sold

A few months ago I found a great source of stone remnants, including this fantastic slab of green marble. I'm sure it was thrown away because of the large chip in the edge, but for me that only added to the appeal.

Me @ Work

2011-09-20T08:56:00.000-07:00

A few months ago a had a webcam set up in my studio, and I just stumbled across the folder of images. This is me working on the underpainting for my large tools painting - the whole scene feels appropriately industrial.

And here's the finished piece up on the wall:

Fragment: Suspended Creamer

2011-09-18T12:50:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Fragment: Suspended Creamer"
Oil on panel, 2 x 0.5 inches (5 x 1 cm)
SOLD

Even when working on an incredibly small surface, glass is still one of my favorite subjects to paint.

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's 2 x 0.5 inches, or about the same area as a postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 7 x 5 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

Contemporary Still Life

2011-09-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

I'm very proud to be newly included in the site "Contemporary Still Life", which gathers together about 150 living painters working in the still life genre. It's an amazing resource that I visit often, and I encourage you all to do the same: http://contemporary-still-life.com

Marble No. 12

2011-09-17T04:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Marbles No. 12"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)
$85 + shipping

Purchase Information

I couldn't say how many times I've painted this large metal marble (it's actually an industrial ball-bearing). I love the way it captures and distorts the objects surrounding it, in this case other marbles.

I'm really happy to offer this tiny painting for your collection. And yes, I mean tiny. It's under 2 x 2 inches, or about the same size as a large postage stamp. It's framed as shown below, with the outer dimensions of the frame being 6 x 6 inches - ideal for that small wall area you don't quite know what to do with.

This is the perfect opportunity to own one of my original paintings for less than $100! Purchase information is here.

EyeCandy on Twitter

2011-09-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

I've started a new project on my Twitter account. Every day, I select a still life painting that grabs my eye - both old and new. I write a very brief description (it's Twitter), and provide a link to the painting.

It's going to be a good way to see a lot of great still life. Please follow along at twitter.JeffHayes.com, and look for tweets beginning with "EyeCandy". Thanks!

Chinese Tea No. 3

2011-09-12T20:43:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Chinese Tea No. 3"
Oil on panel, 5 x 5 inches (13 x 13 cm)
Framing options are available.

Under Construction

2011-09-03T09:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day Weekend - to those readers in the U.S.

Just a quick update that I'll be rolling out a number of new pieces over the next few weeks, including the one pictured above.

Meanwhile, have a great holiday weekend; I'll be busy in the studio!

Sushi No. 15

2011-08-17T15:15:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Sushi No. 15"
Oil on panel, 6 x 5 inches (15 x 12 cm)

Sold

As I mentioned with my previous sushi painting post, it's part of a large series (about a dozen pieces), which are coming out something out of order. In any event, I'm delighted with this one.

Walnuts, Wine, and Pumpkin

2011-08-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Walnuts, Wine, and Pumpkin"
Oil on linen, 7 x 10 inches (18 x 25 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 11 x 14 inches (28 x 35 cm)

Purchase Information

"Walnuts, Wine, and Pumpkin" is the final of a series of three matching paintings exploring my artistic roots in classical Dutch still life painting (the first and second can be seen here and here, respectively).

My concern with the rhythm of the objects was a little simplified with this piece, and I focused more on the drama of the light. Particularly, I was interested in how the light seemed to "turn" as it fell on the form of the pumpkin, and the elegant crimson hue the light acquired as it passed through the wine.

This piece is available directly from my studio; for purchase information, click here. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Sushi No. 30

2011-08-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Sushi No. 30"
Oil on panel, 4 x 10 inches (10 x 25 cm)

Sold

Yes, No. 30, although it is quite out of order. This is part of a new series of sushi paintings I've started recently. My method of working is not exactly straight-forward, and as it happens, one of the last pieces of the series was one of the first to be completed. There are something like a dozen other sushi paintings in various stages of completion!

Audience No. 4

2011-08-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger views)

"Audience No. 4"
Oil on panel, 3.5 x 3.5 inches (9 x 6 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 9 x 8 inches (23 x 20 cm)
$185 + shipping

I have a small collection of stone eggs, and when I'm in a playful mood in the studio, they can be some of my favorite things to paint. They also always seem to suggest a storyline. I was amused by the idea of arranging the small glass marbles as though they were present for an audience with the Important Egg.

This painting is available for purchase directly from my studio; click the button below for more information.

Silver Cup, Spoon, and Orange

2011-07-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Silver Cup, Spoon, and Orange"
Oil on panel, 5 x 6 inches (12 x 15 cm)

Sold

I don't have a lot to say about this piece, except that it's the result of my recent interest in glazing techniques... and that it's probably my best small painting to date.

Forum No. 4

2011-07-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger views)

"Forum No. 4"
Oil on panel, 2 x 5 inches (5 x 12 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 8 x 11 inches (20 x 28 cm)
$225 + shipping

I love painting marbles in general, and groupings of them provide almost everything that make a good painting; color, texture, light, reflection. I couldn't resist taking it a step further, and indulging in the playfulness of imagining them as gathering in a civic forum to discuss the weighty issues of the day.

This painting is available for purchase directly from my studio; click the button below for more information.

Walnuts and Wine

2011-07-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Walnuts and Wine"
Oil on linen, 7 x 10 inches (18 x 25 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 11 x 14 inches (28 x 35 cm)

Purchase Information

"Walnuts and Wine" is the second of a series of three matching paintings. As I mentioned in the post for the first painting, I'm very interested in the lively sense of rhythm with which the great Dutch still life masters arranged a few simple objects. Of the three, this piece is the simplest, and I wanted that sparseness so I could refine that rhythmic cadence in a pure form.

With this piece I also enjoyed working with the very subtle light, in particular the way the light passed through the wineglass and illuminated the walnut directly to it's right with a deep red partial shadow.

This painting is available directly from my studio; for purchase information, click here. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Look for the final painting in the series here in August.

Audience No. 3

2011-06-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger views)

"Audience No. 3"
Oil on panel, 3.5 x 3.5 inches (9 x 6 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 9 x 8 inches (23 x 20 cm)
$185 + shipping

Tour of the Palette: Cadmium Red Medium

2011-06-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

Note: this is part of a series of technical posts I'm writing which detail the colors I use on my palette. These will be published once a week (more or less), and each will focus on a single color. To read the overview, click here. Where possible, I link to the Handprint site. Although it is specifically geared towards watercolor, the discussions of the characteristics of each pigment are extremely useful.

The fourth color on my palette, cadmium red medium (pr108), is an opaque paint, and the first monopigment I've covered, which is to say it is not composed of a mixture of other pigments. It's offered in an array of values from a very light near-orange to a deep scarlet. Personally, I use a medium-value pigment, from which I can usually mix in either direction I need to go. By the way, Handprint's commentary on Cadmium Red is particularly useful, and I recommend you follow the above link and read his discussion.

If I had to pick let's say half a dozen pigments that appear on nearly every modern artist's palette, cadmium red would almost certainly be on that list. It's lightfast, strong and pure, holds up well in mixtures, and proves it's versatility over and over again.

That said, I actually don't use it much at all. It's completely opaque; now that I'm starting to incorporate more glazing into my work, that makes it less valuable to me (opaque paints actually can be used for glazing, but this requires a deft touch). It also has a tendency to be overpowering. In mixtures, strong opaque colors always have to be treated with skill, otherwise the result can easily be either mud (I find pinks mixed from cadmium reds are particularly ugly) or a chemical harshness. This is true for the cadmium yellows and oranges as well. Frequently when I see a glaring color mixture, particularly in a beginner's work, I suspect that a cadmium pigment is to blame.

The tendency towards harshness can be ameliorated somewhat by purchasing from better manufacturers. I personally like Michael Harding's cadmium red (I tend to think he's one of - if not THE - best paint makers I know of). His product has a mellow richness to it.

So, although I don't use it much, when I really need it, I'm glad it's there. It will remain on my palette indefinitely. Next time, I'll discuss a quite similar pigment - pyrolle red - which I use much more frequently.

Forum No. 3

2011-06-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger views)

"Forum No. 3"
Oil on panel, 2 x 5 inches (5 x 12 cm), framed
Outer dimensions with frame: 8 x 11 inches (20 x 28 cm)
$225 + shipping

I love painting marbles in general, and groupings of them provide almost everything that make a good painting; color, texture, light, reflection. I couldn't resist taking it a step further, and indulging in the playfulness of imagining them as gathering in a civic forum to discuss the weighty issues of the day.

This painting is available for purchase directly from my studio; click the button below for more information.

Marbles No. 15

2011-06-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Marbles No. 15"
Oil on panel, 1.75 x 1.75 inches (5 x 5 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 6 x 6 inches (15 x 15 cm)

I was recently asked "Why marbles?". They actually have a lot of elements I enjoy painting: interesting colors, varied textures, striking reflections and highlights. Also, they have a real sense of playfulness; that's what they're there for, after all. Who doesn't have a fond memory involving marbles?

(click image for larger view)

Walnuts, Lemon, and Wine

2011-06-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

(click image for larger view)

"Walnuts, Lemon, and Wine"
Oil on linen, 7 x 10 inches (18 x 25 cm)
Dimensions with frame: 11 x 14 inches (28 x 35 cm)

Purchase Information

"Walnuts, Lemon, and Wine" is the first of a series of three matching paintings. It's clear that for the most part I look backwards for inspiration, to the Dutch still life masters of 350 years ago. In particular, I'm always amazed at their uncanny ability to arrange their compositions with an nearly musical sense of rhythm, phrase, and cadence. Given my own musical background, that obviously appeals to me in a deep way.

With these three pieces, I not only wanted to take the opportunity to work with their visual language, but also to explore arranging simple objects - a few nuts, a lemon, a glass of wine - in a lively, rhythmic way.

This piece is available directly from my studio; for purchase information, click here. There are also a few larger views on my website.

Look for the next two paintings in the series here in July and August.

Tour of the Palette: Red Grey

2011-06-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

Lemon No. 6

2011-06-10T09:00:00.001-07:00

(click image for larger views)

"Lemon No. 6"
Oil on panel, 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm), framed
$185 + shipping

This painting is a member of a now long-running series of fruit and vegetable studies. There's something fantastically rich, elemental, and comforting about well-painted food; it's one of my favorite subjects to work with.