The artist featured this month is Pamela Blaies. All of the art work feature in this post is hers. This year I had the pleasure of purchasing one of her following works:
"Three-for-Tea" by Pamela Blaies
copyright of the artist
How did you get started painting?
I discovered my passion for painting soon after starting a family. My small children were sad about their recent move, so to lift their spirits I began to create murals on their bedroom walls. I found myself anticipating each morning filled with painting. Compelled to explore this newly discovered part of her, I began to experiment with painting on canvas. These first steps were just the beginning of my lifelong commitment to the pursuit of painting.
What inspires you?
I love to paint from life. Being right there in the moment and seeing what you might not think you would see. I am inspired by the effects of light and shadow in the world around me. Light flowing through colored glass, Reflections on metal and ceramic objects – those types of light effects are intriguing to me. Backlighting is especially fun for me when doing oranges and grapes, because I love the colors light produces through the fruit.
Describe your techniques, favorite paint color, and/or favorite thing in your studio.
I use the alla prima technique. With alla prima painting, a work is completed while the paint is still wet. Using this wet-on-wet technique, I often employ thin, transparent washes along with impasto texture which add depth and interest to my paintings. The time limitation of this technique motivates an energetic pace to my work and helps to keep my inspiration fresh.
Black paint is not part of my palette. I use color mixes and complements for shadows and lowering color intensity. My limited color palette offers a virtually infinite color range and helps me to organically achieve color harmony. Right now, my palette includes: titanium white, Cad Yellow Medium (sometimes Cad Yellow Light) either Quinacronone Red or Alizarin Crimson (depending on the subject,) Cad Red Light, Burnt Sienna, Raw Umber, Sap Green, Cobalt Blue and French ultramarine Blue.
My studio was just constructed in September of 2012, so it still feels new to me . I love my studio! It feels like a refuge – no computer, almost like the outside doesn’t exist. It is a very comforting and inspiring place for me to work. My favorite thing in my studio would probably be my sound system. I can create whatever mood I want for the day.
"Time for Tea"by Pamela Blaies
copyright of the artist
What’s the one thing you wished you know starting out or had learned sooner?
Since I started painting a little later in life, regret is something I try not to think about. I see artists that started out young and I sometimes think about how much farther along I could be if I had started painting ten or twenty years earlier. But, I realize that is not productive thinking. If I had gone on another path in life than the one I’ve taken, I wouldn’t be who I am today. So, I focus on enjoying today and making the most of the gifts and blessings I have been given.
If you could spend the day with any artist living or dead, who would it be and why?
Wow, that’s a tough one. But if I had to choose one, I would definitely say John Singer Sargent. I’ve heard others say his brushwork wasn’t pretty, but that is exactly what draws me to him. I would LOVE to have sat and watched him paint! If you had asked for the second artist it would be Richard Schmid. I don’t know – maybe it’s a tie???
The question that is usually expensive for me- What is your favorite art book or DVD and why?
The number one book would be Alla Prima by Richard Schmid. Thinking about it right now, I should probably read it again. I am reading a book right now by John Carlson: Carlson’s Guide to Landscape Painting. It is about landscapes, but is chock full of great information and instruction! He makes me want to paint the landscape! I also have several of Daniel Keys videos – he is also amazing and I have picked up so much from his videos! He also gives a lot of practical ideas for canvas choices and brush care.
Where can we see your art- galleries, website, etc.?
My website: http://pamelablaies.com/works
Physical Galleries: Dallas, Texas at the Dutch Art Gallery and in Georgetown, Texas at Stinger Studio
Online at www.ugallery.com, www.dailypaintworks.com
I also have about 6-10 exhibits throughout the year in and around Texas. I post my upcoming events on my website http://pamelablaies.com/events
"Early Spring Bouquet"by Pamela Blaies
copyright of the artist
You can also check out her latest you tube video at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWh-_ov_PzU
