Rachel Jones and Art

So I don't just paint all day.  I have a day job.  I also have a very addictive expensive hobby  as if spending all of my hard earned money on paints and canvases was not enough :) Welcome to my world of hooping...and specifically spinning fire. It's not just for kids. Meet Wick. Wick makes this ↓  below possible.  (This isn't me, but someone who knows what they are doing from moodhoops.com  site) I'm considering offering a painting for these wicks,  I desire them so! Sigh...Sigh...Drool...Drool! https://moodhoops.com/shop/five-wick-fire-hoop/ OK... Internet break over and back to work.

ArtSpace 506 ArtSpace 506 had their 3rd Annual Small Works show this past Friday. It is a great hidden little venue that does so much to highlight local artists through various solo exhibitions and through group exhibitions such as the annual Small Works shows. Not to mention the encouraging staff.  REGENERATE oil and silver leaf on wood panel by Rachel Jones It was such an honor to have my painting REGENERATE place 3rd. My painting SECRETS and SEARCHINGS  ended up in the final running also. It was wonderful to be surrounded by so many fine pieces and people who shared their stories, processes, and encouraging words.  Now back to the easel!

Sometimes it's all about having a little fun!  Ever since my husband complained that I neeeeever paint him ( a bit dramatically), I began to  steal his likeness a bit more, much to his chagrin. He doesn't just  hand over money for paint supplies but also  serves as a much needed source of comic relief ... especially when I'm taking things a bit too seriously or negative about a project. Here are some progress shots of a recent little endeavor.  There are still a few adjustments to make but I'm pleased to say, It is husband approved! The dreaded ugly stage (female) by Rachel Jones the dreaded ugly stage (male)                      male detail by Rachel Jones female detail by Rachel Jones PEW! PEW! oil and silver leaf on panel by Rachel Jones

I had to go to Charleston, SC for several reasons yesterday. One, being I wanted to see  a few of the new exhibitions at several of the galleries. Unfortunately, that did  not happen. So  hopefully I will have another opportunity before the exhibits leave. However, I did see some dear friends, who are making gorgeous high quality, locally sourced bags that are to die for . Their Website is below for your viewing pleasure. http://henryandjoy.com/ Also a link of  their feature article in ArtMag. http://theartmag.com/the-arts/erik-nicola-johnson-of-henry-joy-bags/ I also ran into artists, Heather Thornton who will be having a show quite soon that is sure to have her unique WOW factor.  Check out below for details. https://www.facebook.com/Heathornton-The-Art-of-Heather-Thornton-225315824190708/ We were also introduced to the BEST Fish and Chip shop, this side of the pond ! If you need proof, just feast your eyes on the ...

The Others won a little ribbon this weekend at Seacoast Gallery Fall show. Happy Dance. Now back to the easel. oil in progress by Rachel Jones

I know I am not alone in admiring the creative power that is Edvard Munch . As far as complexity in simplicity, he and Kathe Kollwitz I find were true geniuses. Here is my little homage in The Others  - attempting to paint a little less yet say a little more.  This will be part of the series written about in a previous blog post exploring the various aspects of relationships. We shall see how it all evolves as I'm hoping to create a total of 21 works. Baby steps...Baby steps. THE OTHERS oil on wood panel by Rachel Jones I apologize about the glare (wet). I'm sure there will be an updated, better photo soon when I'm able to show  it in context with it's companions. Stay tuned!         Love and Pain by Edvard Munch

I love leaf paintings but it was so very intimidating. Since art itself is all about experimenting, I figured it was time I bit the bullet.  I hadn't really any excuse for further procrastination as I had leaf, I had paint (of course) and I had recently  received some very generous pointers from well known artist Michele Kortbawi Wilk, whom by the way I think is a leafing queen with her exotic animals and full command of the materials.  http://www.michelekortbawiwilk.com/ So other than the mess, that many warned me about but I obviously ignored as days later I found wisps of silver in the oddest places, it was an enjoyable process. I think I'm ready to tackle bigger and shinier. selfie with oil and silver leaf by rachel jones