New Paintings and Studio Space

"First Light of Day", 18 x 24", oil on canvas

I apologize that I've not kept up with posting.  It's been a hectic few months.  I'm finally back in stride now, although I've still not found adequate time to paint en plein air....a sorrowful state of affairs to say the least! However, my time in the studio has been good and I feel as though I've made progress.

"Summer Light", 20 x 24", oil on canvas

These two paintings and several have been newly added to my website at www.SGTarr.com. Be sure to sign up for my occasional newsletters when you visit the site.  I'll look forward to keeping you updated.

Studio seating area showing drying wall.

The photo above shows the area of my studio where I relax at the end of the day to study work in progress.  The wall shelf also allows me to study plein air works that may become references for larger paintings.  The chair I relax in (not shown) has, in addition, an excellent view of current work on the easel. This pleasant and comfortable area also doubles as a place for clients and  students to gather and discuss art. It's a good space.

Silverman on Sensationalism

For a number of years the art world has been in a flux casting about trying to figure out where we should go from modernism. In reviewing Burton Silverman's exceptional website (link at right under "Websites of Interest") I noted on his "Commentary" page a section entitled, "Realism in the Century of Modernism". He succinctly describes the turmoil the art world has been in over the past 50 years and the current trend to sensationalize.

Keeping true to ones self as an artist is a truly difficult thing to do as we are bombarded by external factors every way we turn in our daily lives. TV, movies, the media, magazines, etc. all impact what we do, what we think, and how we feel. It becomes ever more difficult for artists to focus on their own internal message and to express self. Finding a quiet place within and outside of ourselves to contemplate who we are and what we have to say as artists is ultimately essential if we wish to follow our own unique individual path. I can only say, "Bravo" to Mr. Silverman for understanding this and having the foresight and courage to stay the course throughout his career. His example of individualism is clearly an ideal towards which we should all strive.