THIS IS THE LAST STUDY PAINTING for the Viking Family Portrait. Next week I will begin the final painting. The first step is to figure out how to set up the 6' x 4' canvas in my studio for painting. The next step is to draw the composition onto the canvas with charcoal. I hope to get paint on the canvas by the end of the week. 
         Thursday evening, September 25th, from 6-8 p.m., I will be doing another painting at the Runestone Museum - this time of Andrew, the model for the Viking father. He will be in full Viking costume. I will also bring in all the study paintings and drawings for the painting.
          If you were at the last painting session, you will remember the seating situation was not the best for viewing the process. I am going to change that and the lighting so you can see better. Hope to see you there again. This session is free the public.

ONE MORE STUDY PAINTING COMPLETED! I have to say that I am enjoying these small study paintings. Maybe it is that I am enjoying painting every day this week - every day I paint is a great day. One more study painting to go and then I will be moving to the "big linen canvas" - SCARY AND EXCITING!

THIS STUDY PAINTING began from life on Thursday, September 11th at the Runestone Museum. Nearly 100 people came to watch the painting process. I was very surprised to see so many of my former students that came quite a distance from all directions to participate in this event. I was somewhat nervous with so many very good artists watching, but there were many words of encouragement throughout the evening.

THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER will be dedicated to study drawings and study paintings for the Viking Family Portrait. I will post them as they are completed. Pictured here is my first study painting of Andrew, the model for the Viking father and a drawing of Brita and two of her children in the painting. It is not finished yet. 
          A study painting or drawing is practice and problem solving for the artist, solving color, value and edges in the image. I am working through a style of painting with a looser brush stroke carrying heavier paint. I have always been hoping and trying to loosen up. I had an aha moment in a portrait painting workshop with artist Bonita Roberts a couple of weeks ago. She has given me some new insight into brush and paint handling that will improve my style. She is a great artist and an excellent teacher.
          This Thursday, I will begin a study painting of Brita in Viking costume from life. She is the model for the Viking mother. This painting session will take place on Thursday, September 11, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Runestone Museum in Alexandria, MN. The public is invited and entry to the Museum is free. You may come for a short time or watch the full three hours. Hope to see you there!