ALWAYS READY

There are times when I don't have the motivation or energy to start a painting or print project, but still feel like doing something in my studio. I try to have a scratch board on hand to work on but also find that doing a monoprint is quick and easy on the brain. Spread some ink or paint on a sheet of plastic, run it through the press and see what happens!!

WOODBLOCK PRINTING

Below is a link to a Youtube video showing one type of woodblock printing. It shows how printing was done (in this case, playing cards) in the late 1400s and early 1500s,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgCYovlFRNY&feature=related

HOLIDAYS II

Spent time with family over the last few days so my art has been on the back burner. I did find time to do one acrylic painting which was quick but enjoyable.

HOLIDAYS

The upcoming holidays have limited my time to attend to this blog. I haven't been able to get down to my studio or post anything. Because my son and daughter in law will be gone for Christmas, I did get an early celebration with my grandson though. He loves to play my drums when he visits Big Bear, so our gift to him this year is his own kit. Pretty sure we aren't the neighbors favorite people right now, but Liam is in heaven. Nice being the grandparents that get to head back home whenever we want!!

GREAT INSTRUCTIONAL SITE

I have purchased a few instructional DVDs over the years and have found them to be very helpful. Seems like it's impossible not to pick up helpful techniques and tips watching other people work. Now I use this site that makes DVDs available to watch by renting them for a period of time and watching them on the computer. Very good artist instruction in watercolor, acrylic, mixed media, oils and other art forms. Well worth a visit.

http://www.artworkshops.tv/

LOOKS EASY...PROBABLY NOT!

Anders Andersson, a Swedish artist has a wonderful watercolor demo on Youtube that makes it look so easy. Because I find working (for me it really is work) with watercolors such a challenge, I have watched this video many times.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?gl=SE&hl=sv&v=3r2ThBxOUCo

On a different note, I did another pastel just to keep me out of trouble!