Studio News - March 2022

“Today and Tomorrow” 8h” x 12w” mixed media on canvas

Warmth, color, and the fragrance of blossoms envelope me as spring fills the air here in the Bay Area. Fortunately, this season of new growth is helping to foster the emergence of more artwork in my studio — the artwork acting as an antidote during this time of chaos and uncertainty. I just finished reading a letter written by the intuitive author Clarissa Pinkola Estes and her words “do not lose heart, we were made for these times”, resonates firmly. Right now, my art is my voice and I hope that the work being created helps contribute even a little bit to beauty.

“Feel Free” 12” x 12” acrylic on wood panel

I plan to share some painting tips in these newsletters. Today’s tip revolves around the idea of having some fun with your painting creativity. So, grab a piece of paper, wood, or canvas and roughly pour or brush on some white acrylic gesso. Let it dry in an unsmooth, rough surface. When completely dry, glaze the surface with watercolor, acrylic, or oil tinted with some color. The patchiness of the gesso frees you up when applying the color to enjoy the seeing the dents, bumps, and texture which can even direct you into the next step — or you might just like what it reveals to you and leave it alone.  As the awe-inspiring painter Helen Frankenthaler once said: “There are no rules. Let the picture lead you where it must go.”   Currently, I am continuing to focus on the non-objective style of painting and challenging myself to be open to what the painting is telling me. Thank you, Helen Frankenthaler!

“It Will” 12” x 12” on wood panel

If you are interested in purchasing any of my paintings, or if you have any questions, please contact me here.

Happy Creating!
Mary Lou