Continuing the Art of Play
October 14, 2021
Artist: Susan Hale
Join Zoom Meeting / Class
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87618016665
Artist Statement (via artist website)
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I have always loved to draw and paint. Living in the Wisconsin countryside is a constant inspiration to me. It seems everywhere I look I see a painting – sunrises on Lake Michigan, golden hay bales scattered in a farm field, popcorn clouds dancing in a cerulean blue sky. Color and pattern are an important aspect of my work. I try to create on the canvas the energy and connection to nature I feel as I paint. Working in oil, I apply the paint thick and luscious, like frosting on a cake. “Let the paint talk,” I often say.
The German Expressionists, French Impressionists, and the Magical Realism of Mexico have influenced me, as has traveling the world. My most recent trip was India – the vibrating sounds & colors were an awakening. I keep “Sketchbook Diaries” of places I have been, but there is truly “no place like home” as I live in rural Cedarburg, Wisconsin surrounded by farm fields (and mooing cows).
Color is magic to me. My paintings include the vibrant use of color along with a sense of optimism. I love to paint outdoors, “plein-air.” It is invigorating to experience painting not only through my eyes but also through the feel of the breeze, the smell of the damp earth, and the chirping of the crickets. As Van Gogh said, “…real artists paint things not as they are, in a dry analytical way, but as they feel them.” I paint as I feel.
People ask me: “Do you really see all those colors in the landscape?” Yes, is my reply. I just squint and use my imagination…isn’t that what being an artist is all about?
Warm-up + Project
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Warm-up
Please cut 4 small pieces of paper to use for your warm-up (ex: I divided a 9 x 12 watercolor paper))
You may use any size. Keep these small, as these will be quick warm-ups playing with different materials.
Bristol board, watercolor paper, or sketchbook paper will be fine.
Materials to consider:
oil pastels
paint markers
watercolor markers
acrylic paint
colored paper
Choose a colored picture or a photograph of a simple landscape, flower, or garden.
(See below if needed)
Rural Landscape Photography & Garden Photography
During the warm-up we will play with different materials, creating a textured piece reminiscent of the impressionist painters and inspired by Susan Hale's style. Consider color, shape, texture, and whimsy in creating your piece.
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Project
We will create a fuller more expanded finished piece, adding your own flair, style This piece may be based on your original photo or another to use as your reference.
Rural Landscapes
The Garden
Water & Winter
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