James Tennison: A Year in Fort Worth

Tiny Dancer

2012-03-15T08:27:00.000-05:00

"Giselle" 24" x 30" Oil

This painting depicts the otherworldly forest that Giselle inhabits after dying of a broken heart. The amazing dancer playing the part of Giselle is Leticia Oliveira of Texas Ballet Theater.

Red Tailed Hawks Painting Progression

2012-03-13T08:28:00.000-05:00

Video by Justin Tennison

"Cultural District Hawks Over The Amon Carter" 40" x 30" Oil

Bass Hall Painting Progression

2012-03-09T08:03:00.001-06:00

Video by Justin Tennison

"Evening Light on Bass Hall" 36" x 27" Oil

Concerts In The Garden

2012-03-06T08:09:00.000-06:00

"Concerts in the Garden" 36" x 24" Oil

For five weeks during the summer the Botanic Gardens are filled with beautiful music provided by the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra. You can bring your picnic basket and relax under the stars while listening to the orchestra at the Concerts In The Garden Summer Music Festival. There is a fireworks show every night.

As I was painting this I began flinging paint on the canvas to try to get the effect of bursting fireworks. I was reminded of Whistler's "Nocturne in Black and Gold" - a painting of a fireworks display. John Ruskin, the well-known art critic, was outraged when he saw this painting exhibited in 1877 and accused Whistler of "flinging a pot of paint in the public's face". Whistler sued him for libel and won. It's an interesting story that you can read about here.

The Friesian In Fort Worth

2012-03-02T08:17:00.000-06:00

"The Friesian" 36" x 48" Oil

The official breed of the Friesian horse is always black, has a thick mane and tail, and long, silky hair on the lower legs. It has great presence and carries itself with elegance. And it is great fun to paint.

The Old Courthouse

2012-02-28T08:44:00.000-06:00

"Courthouse" 10" x 8" Watercolor

The clock on the downtown courthouse has been telling time for Fort Worth residents since 1895. This small watercolor shows how it looked last year before a year-long renovation began. Major work is being done on the tower and clock and the copper dome will be replaced. All the new pieces will be fashioned exactly as the old ones. It's going to look great!

And here's how it looks now.

Black In The Sunlight

2012-02-24T07:44:00.000-06:00

"The Friesian Stallion" (detail - in progress) 36" x 48" Oil

Artist and teacher Charles Hawthorne, in his book "Hawthorne on Painting" said that painting black subjects in sunlight was the hardest thing to do. I'm inclined to believe him! This painting (still in progress) of a black stallion in the sun has been a challenge - but a challenge that I'm enjoying very much. I'll show you the finished painting soon.

Frog Fountain Finished

2012-02-20T08:38:00.000-06:00

"TCU Commons" 30" x 40" Oil

I've finished this painting of the Texas Christian University Commons. Not that long ago this area used to be a parking lot but is now one of the focal points of the campus. It's a great architectural space and if you haven't seen it I would recommend a visit. I'm pleased that the university has acquired this painting and it will hang in one of the buildings near the fountain.

The Black Stallion Is Moving Along

2012-02-13T07:58:00.000-06:00

"The Friesian Stallion" (in progress) 36" x 48" Oil

I'm making some progress on this painting of the Friesian Stallion. On the horizon (from left to right) is the Casa Manana Theater, the Will Rogers Memorial Coluseum, a hint of the Kimbell Art Museum and on the far right, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

Lunch Meeting

2012-02-06T12:06:00.002-06:00

Paula Kornye Tillman (owner of Galerie Kornye West) brought lunch to the studio and we had our initial meeting to discuss the content and layout of the "A Year In Fort Worth" show catalog. To help us visualize how the catalog will look, I printed a photo of every painting that I produced during 2011 (close to 50). Now comes the task of designing the cover, putting the paintings in some kind of order and adding text to the images.

It Takes Two

2012-02-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

It has been said that it takes two artists to paint a painting - one to do the work, and the other to tell him when to stop before he spoils it! My wife is that other artist for me. For over 30 years she has been my most trusted critic, my greatest encourager and my best friend. I wouldn't want to do this without her.

Below are just a few examples of her creativity. You can check out her blog here.

And today is her birthday. : )

The Friesian Stallion - Getting Started

2012-01-31T07:40:00.004-06:00

"Friesian Stallion" 36" x 48" Oil (in progress)

I've begun a painting of a Friesian stallion that I saw at the Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Show a couple of months ago. This horse breed originated in Friesland, Netherlands, and the ancestors of these impressive horses were in great demand during the Middle Ages as war horses. Below are photos of my impressive subject, Keesje.

"A Year In Fort Worth" Paintings For Sale

2012-01-27T08:25:00.000-06:00

Galerie Kornye West

If you are interested in acquiring any of my "A Year In Fort Worth" paintings before Spring Gallery Night please contact Galerie Kornye West at 817-763-5227 or email kornyewest@yahoo.com. Some of the paintings can be seen on the gallery website here.

"Giselle" Continues

2012-01-24T07:37:00.000-06:00

My painting of "Giselle" continues. I'm racing to finish this and 3 other paintings before Spring Gallery Night on March 24.

Starting "Giselle"

2012-01-20T08:48:00.000-06:00

Texas Ballet Theater's performance of "Giselle" a few months ago was spectacular. It was the world premier of Ben Stevenson's production of the ballet and not only did it feature Fort Worth's amazing dance company, but also costumes and set designs loaned by the American Ballet Theater. I'm just beginning this painting from my experience at the dress rehearsal in Bass Hall. I'm hoping to capture some of the beauty and mystery of this performance.

"Giselle" (just started) 20" x 24" Oil

Below are a couple of photos that I'm using as reference for my painting.

Sundance Courtyard

2012-01-17T08:10:00.000-06:00

"Sundance Courtyard" 18" x 14" Oil

I had passed right by this spot in downtown Fort Worth many times and had never noticed it before. Our daughter, who works at Earth Bones on Main Street, showed us this little courtyard behind the shop. It is the site of outdoor dining for Cabo Grande and Risky's Barbeque. Painting the city where I live has really helped me appreciate the beauty that is all around - if I would just open my eyes to see it.

TCU Painting Progressing

2012-01-13T08:44:00.000-06:00

I'm continuing to make progress on the TCU Commons painting. I visited the campus several times when I was gathering reference for the painting. One day while I was photographing, the three girls pictured below walked by and sat down at the fountain. When they saw that I was taking pictures they offered to move, thinking they were in my way. Little did they know that they were exactly what the composition needed. I couldn't have posed them better if I had tried!

Frog Fountain

2012-01-10T08:43:00.000-06:00

I'm just beginning a painting of Frog Fountain on the Texas Christian University Commons. The fountain has been a focal point of campus life for several decades and features four stylized lotus leaves.

"TCU Commons" (just started) 30" x 40" Oil

"TCU Commons" (color study) 8" x 11" Oil

I thought the painting needed to include someone riding a bike so I asked a friend of mine who works at TCU to pose for me. He was a good sport and rode back and forth many times while I snapped photos. Thanks Jay!

Brushstrokes

2012-01-06T08:21:00.000-06:00

John Singer Sargent said, "The thicker the paint, the more the color flows." I believe that - and I do enjoy pushing thick paint around! Often when we see paintings reproduced in a book or on a website they appear very smooth when in fact they are full of brushstrokes and textures. That's one great reason to visit museums and galleries - to see paintings up close and in person, as they were meant to be seen.

"The Andalusian" (detail)

"The Andalusian" 36" x 36" Oil

Stepping Into The Light

2012-01-03T08:15:00.000-06:00

"The Andalusian" 36" x 36" Oil

The finished portrait of an Andalusian horse and rider. From the Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Show at the Will Rogers Auditorium.

A Year's Worth Of Paint

2011-12-30T08:51:00.000-06:00

When I began this "Year In Fort Worth" I decided to save every paint tube I emptied during the year, just to see how much paint I would use on this project. Well, the answer is... a lot!

And with a paint tube like this costing around $60, I squeeze out every last drop with my trusted Tube Wringer.

Even though the year is almost over, I will continue to finish paintings I started during the year and will keep posting on this blog until Spring Gallery Night, March 24, 2012. Thank you for following along this year!

Cowboys and Culture

2011-12-27T08:34:00.000-06:00

Fort Worth is known as a city of cowboys and culture due to its preserved Western heritage and excellent artistic offerings. I've been documenting in my sketchbook some of this variety and should have about 25 or so of these watercolors to show at Spring Gallery Night 2012.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T08:22:00.000-06:00

There have been many great experiences during my "Year In Fort Worth", but none so special as the arrival of our wonderful grandson. We are blessed to have our family here to help us celebrate his first Christmas. I hope your holiday season is full of joy and blessings as well. Merry Christmas everyone!

"But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10-11

Artist Group

2011-12-22T08:07:00.000-06:00

Top row (left to right) -- Blair Currin, me, John Cook, Darnell Jones, Chase Almond
Bottom row (left to right) -- Dennis Farris, Cecilia Robertson, Debob Jacob, Beatriz Welch, Alicia Templin
(click on names to view their websites)

Once a month I meet with this fine group of artists and friends. We take turns hosting our meetings which start with a breakfast and end around lunchtime. Every month we bring paintings we've been working on for viewing, critiques and encouragement. At our December meeting each of us brings one of our small paintings wrapped in unmarked brown paper for a gift exchange.

Three More Steps

2011-12-19T08:06:00.000-06:00

The canvas is almost all covered with paint.

It's now covered and I'm beginning to make adjustments here and there.

I'm adding detail to the horses head but the rider still has a blank expression.

"The Andalusian" (in progress) 36" x 36" Oil

The finished painting coming soon...

He'll Be Home For Christmas

2011-12-14T08:05:00.000-06:00

I've been finishing up this due-by-Christmas portrait while continuing to work on my Fort Worth paintings.

First Three Steps

2011-12-09T08:13:00.000-06:00

Darkest dark. Lightest light. Brightest color. These are what I like to paint first when I start a painting. This helps me to judge my darks and lights correctly and my colors accurately. Starting a painting off well is so important. As a famous artist once said, "Well begun is half done."

"The Andalusian" (in progress) 36" x 36" Oil

Downtown Nightscape Finished

2011-12-05T08:09:00.000-06:00

"The Haltoms Clock" 30" x 20" Oil

This painting of the downtown Haltoms clock is now finished. And speaking of time... it's hard to believe that my "Year in Fort Worth" is almost finished as well!

"The Andalusian" Beginning

2011-12-01T08:01:00.000-06:00

"The Andalusian" (just started) 36" x 36" Oil

Color Study for "The Andalusian" 8" x 8" Oil

Just getting started on this painting of an Andalusian horse and rider that posed for me at the recent Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Show at Will Rogers Memorial Center. The rider is Mario Contreras and the amazing horse is Xiomaro. I'm going to have fun with this one!

A Frame Around It

2011-11-28T09:52:00.000-06:00

Sometimes as I'm working on a painting I'll temporarily put it in a frame. This helps me to visualize it without all the clutter and distractions around the studio. Since a painting often looks better in a frame it also gives me hope and encourages me to keep working until it's finished! I've still got some work to do on this one (does anybody really know what time it is?) but I'm enjoying painting all the city lights and reflections.

The Finished Painting

2011-11-25T08:47:00.000-06:00

"Cultural District Hawks Above The Amon Carter" 40" x 30" Oil

It's been fun working on this painting of the Amon Carter Museum of American Art from bird's eye view. Next up -- a painting of downtown Fort Worth from street level.

Almost Finished

2011-11-22T08:10:00.000-06:00

"Cultural District Hawks Above The Amon Carter" (in progress) 40" x 30" Oil

The foreground hawk is almost finished and then I'll work on the one in the distance. After that I'll begin refining the landscape and architecture and in my next blog post I'll show you the finished painting.

"Juneteenth" at The Salmagundi Club in New York

2011-11-18T08:07:00.000-06:00

"Juneteenth" 19" x 12" Watercolor

I received a phone call yesterday from the Salmagundi Club in New York, saying my painting "Juneteenth" has won the Margery Soroka Memorial Award at the 128th Annual Member's Exhibition. Just thought I'd share that with you.

Below are a couple of details from the painting. One thing I enjoy so much about watercolor is the way the colors flow together and "happy accidents" occur. I always feel out of control when I paint a watercolor - and that's probably a good thing.

Beginning To Take Flight

2011-11-14T09:54:00.000-06:00

"The Cultural District Red Tailed Hawks" (in progress) 40" x 30" Oil

One of my teachers at art school used to say, "Always work from general to specific; from simple to complex". So that is the way I approach every painting, blocking in the big general shapes first and gradually refining and adding detail as needed. I've almost got the white of this canvas covered and will begin getting more and more specific with each added brushstroke. I'll show you my progress soon.

A Weekend at Bass Performance Hall

2011-11-10T08:38:00.000-06:00

I posted recently about my experience partnering with Texas Ballet Theater (they danced, I showed paintings) at Bass Performance Hall. Here are a few photos of their outstanding performance of "Giselle", complete with costumes and set designs borrowed from the American Ballet Theater. Following the photos is another excellent video produced by my son.

Act 1

Act 2

Video by Justin Tennison

Downtown Nightscape

2011-11-07T08:29:00.000-06:00

I've just begun a painting of downtown Fort Worth at night, featuring the 100 year old Haltom's Jewelers clock in Sundance Square. This pedestrian friendly 14-block area of shops and restaurants is a popular destination and on weekends is particularly lively. I hope to capture some of the vibrancy of Fort Worth's downtown nightlife.

The Finished Portrait

2011-11-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

Part of my year in Fort Worth involves painting this little girl from Dallas. The portrait is now finished and I will soon be delivering it to my client. I hope they are very pleased!

The Start

2011-10-31T08:11:00.003-05:00

I've just begun an oil painting of the Amon Carter Museum from bird's eye view, referring to the watercolor from my sketchbook as I transfer the composition to canvas. I decided to place the foreground hawk higher in the sky for a more pleasing composition and to give more of a feeling of soaring high above the museum. The story behind this painting can be found here.

"Cultural District Red Tailed Hawks" 10" x 8" Watercolor

Before beginning a large oil painting, I usually take a few minutes to do a small study in oils. This 5" x 7" sketch serves as a guide and gives me a good idea of the color and general feeling I'm after in the larger work.

Portrait Progressing

2011-10-27T08:15:00.000-05:00

I've been making progress on this commissioned portrait. The hardest parts (her face and hands) are just about finished and now I'm working on the bottom of her dress, the chair and the background. I'll show you the finished product soon.

Horsing Around

2011-10-24T08:05:00.000-05:00

"Keesje" 10" x 8" Watercolor

The Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Show was in town recently. These horses - from Spain and Portugal - are some of the most amazing and beautiful horses I've ever seen. I painted this watercolor sketch of a Friesian stallion and soon will be starting a large oil of an Andalusian being ridden by a Spanish vaquero.

Thank you Lisa Diersen and friends from Saint Charles, Illinois, for all your help in posing your
Andalusian and Lusitano horses!

Setting Up at Bass Hall

2011-10-21T15:12:00.001-05:00

I spent this morning at Bass Performance Hall. The moving company arrived with our display walls and paintings.

After some concern that the display walls were too large to fit through the double doors, the movers managed to get them inside.

Paula Kornye Tillman set to work deciding where each painting would hang.

Marshall Tillman hung the paintings for us, with some friendly help from Carey who works at Bass Hall. (Marshall and Carey went to high school together and hadn't seen each other in 30 years).

The paintings are now in place and ready to be seen during this weekend's performance of Giselle by Texas Ballet Theater.

Thank you Paula and Marshall for creating such a wonderful display!

Paintings at Bass Hall

2011-10-17T08:02:00.004-05:00

These paintings will be on display this weekend in the lobby of Bass Performance Hall. The kind folks at Texas Ballet Theater have invited me to display some of my Fort Worth paintings this Friday, Saturday and Sunday during their performance of Giselle. It is such an honor to partner with our city's world class dance company. See you at the ballet!

"Evening Light on Bass Hall" 36x27 Oil

"Dress Rehearsal at Bass Hall" 28x22 Oil

"Last Light on First Methodist" 24x18

"Practicing for the Nutcracker" 14x11 Oil

"Roger" 24x30 Oil

"Duet" 36x24 Oil

A Series of Adjustments

2011-10-12T07:34:00.000-05:00

One of my teachers used to say, "a painting is a series of adjustments" - and there are hundreds of adjustments to make when painting a portrait. I'm focusing on painting this girl's face now and hopefully each brushstroke will get me closer to capturing her likeness.

Many adjustments also take place here.

Step by Step Video of "Roger"

2011-10-07T08:11:00.001-05:00

Earlier this year I painted a young Brahma that had just won a medal at the Fort Worth Stock Show. My son made this short video of the painting as it progressed from start to finish. If only I could paint this fast!

Video by Justin Tennison

Plein Air Planter

2011-10-04T08:17:00.000-05:00

"Botanic Garden Planter" 12" x 9" Oil

I painted this quick oil sketch a while ago at the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens, "a peaceful haven nestled in the heart of the Fort Worth Cultural District". After a record-breaking 71 days of temperatures in the 100's this year, the weather has finally cooled off some - so I need to leave the comfort of my studio and get back out there and paint on location!

Fort Worth Music Festival

2011-10-03T08:11:00.000-05:00

This past weekend we attended the Fort Worth Music Festival held on the tree-lined lawn of the Will Rogers Memorial Center. It was a 2-day live music event featuring 20 local and national bands on two stages. We heard some great bands including Seryn, Telegraph Canyon, The Orbans, Calhoun and Kermit Ruffins. There was artwork for sale by area artists. Several food trucks served up tasty treats. The weather was perfect. The crowd was enthusiastic. It's great to be in Fort Worth!

The Fort Worth Herd

2011-09-29T07:59:00.000-05:00

"The Fort Worth Herd" 8" x 10" Watercolor

After working on several large oil paintings, it's refreshing to paint a small watercolor in my sketchbook. The subject of this sketch is our very own Fort Worth Herd. Genuine Texas cowhands drive the longhorns along East Exchange Avenue in the "world's only twice daily cattle drive." You can read more about the herd and the historic Fort Worth Stockyards here.

Three Faces

2011-09-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

I'm back to work on "Hero" - a painting I started several months ago. Also in the works is a commissioned portrait there in the background. These three faces will keep me busy for a while!

GRANDSON!

2011-09-25T10:48:00.000-05:00

We interrupt this art blog to bring you a very important announcement...

A GRANDSON IS BORN!

Grayson Tennison 8lbs 8oz 21 inches

Justin's wonderful wife, Kelsey, gave birth to this beautiful boy yesterday morning. He is named after my father. He may be perfect.

Duet

2011-09-22T07:55:00.000-05:00

"Duet" 36" x 24" Oil

Here's my completed painting of Carolyn Judson and Lucas Priolo, performing a duet in "Love Always Remains". On Gallery Night I had fun hanging out with some of the Texas Ballet Theater dancers - including the lovely subject of this painting.

Weekend Workshop

2011-09-19T08:09:00.001-05:00

I spent the weekend teaching a portrait painting workshop at the Trinity Arts Guild. This organization has been around for 50 years. They are a great group of talented, dedicated and hardworking artists and I thoroughly enjoyed spending the weekend with them! I did a demo the first morning and afterwards the workshop participants got to work. Here are a few photos from our workshop.

Two different models posed for us. At the end of the second day we had a critique of some of the paintings produced during the weekend.

My Other Job

2011-09-15T07:56:00.000-05:00

When I'm not painting Fort Worth subjects this year, my "other job" is painting commissioned portraits. Now that Gallery Night is over, I've begun this portrait of a beautiful girl that I will be working on as I continue to do my Fort Worth paintings - which are beginning to stack up all around!

Fall Gallery Night Video

2011-09-12T08:15:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all of you who came out to Fall Gallery Night on Saturday! It was great visiting with you. My son made this short video that captures the spirit of the evening. I hope you enjoy it!

Video by Justin Tennison

Gallery Night!

2011-09-08T08:02:00.000-05:00

Fall Gallery Night is this Saturday from 2 to 9. I hope to see you at Galerie Kornye West, on the corner of Camp Bowie and Clover Lane in Fort Worth. New this year is the People's Choice Award. Visit the gallery Friday September 9 through Saturday, September 10 to cast your vote for your favorite painting. Some lucky artist will be awarded a cash prize! : )

If you come to the gallery on Saturday you can also step across the street to Winslow's Wine Cafe to meet some of the Texas Ballet Theater dancers and see my ballet paintings.

Galerie Kornye West

Dancers

2011-09-05T13:15:00.000-05:00

I'm currently working on a couple of paintings of Texas Ballet Theater dancers. The larger painting is just about finished and I've started the smaller one that I also hope to complete in time to display on Saturday for Gallery Night.

Finished!

2011-09-01T08:21:00.000-05:00

"Evening Light on Bass Hall" 36" x 27" Oil

I finally finished my Bass Hall painting! Although my "A Year in Fort Worth" show will be on Spring Gallery Night 2012, this painting will be on display at Galerie Kornye West during the upcoming Fall Gallery Night, September 10th, 2011 -- a preview of things to come.

And here's where it started, a few thousand brushstrokes ago.

Ballet Duet In Progress

2011-08-29T08:12:00.000-05:00

On Fall Gallery Night, some of the dancers with Texas Ballet Theater (including Allysin Hsieh, the lovely subject of my painting below) will be across the street from Galerie Kornye West at Winslow's Wine Cafe. They will be in costume promoting the Ballet and their school, as well as selling tickets for their upcoming performances.

I will be showing a couple of my ballet paintings at Winslow's, including the one above that I just started (the pressure is on to finish it!). I'll be doing "double duty", spending time at both the gallery and the cafe. Hopefully I'll see some of you at one location or the other!

Botanic Gardens Heron Sculpture

2011-08-25T07:34:00.000-05:00

Painting on location is full of challenges. You need to paint rapidly because the light will change in just a few minutes, especially on a sunny day like this one. You are often fighting the elements such as wind and sun and rain. Sometimes bugs get in the way ( I think there are some imbedded in this painting). But it can also be very rewarding and often there is an honesty and authenticity in these small outdoor studies that can be lacking in a labored studio piece.

I painted this at the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens on two consecutive days. Each session was probably about 2 hours long - just enough time to try to capture the essentials, but not long enough to get too bogged down with a lot of details. On location you see so much more color, as evidenced by comparing the painting with the photo I took of the scene I painted. And as soon as the weather gets cooler around here, I'm going back outside to paint!

Flora, Fauna and Fun

2011-08-22T07:47:00.000-05:00

In one corner of my studio I have this grouping of small paintings. The one on top is of an iris from our backyard in Arlington before we moved to Fort Worth. The lion is from the Fort Worth Zoo. (If you happen to be there when he roars you will never forget it!). I caught him in a passive moment when he had just finished sharpening his claws on a log.

The painting/collage on the bottom is by my wife. She used recycled materials (chocolate candy wrappers, recycled papers, my reject watercolors etc.) to produce this beautiful work. It has been said that it takes two artists to paint a painting - one to do the work, and the other to tell him when to stop before he spoils it! Deb is that other artist for me. She is my best and most trusted critic - and I wouldn't want to do this without her. You can check out her blog here.

The Audience Arrives

2011-08-18T07:58:00.000-05:00

"Sunset on Bass Hall" (detail - in progress)

The audience has arrived for the evening concert and some are enjoying the view from the balcony before the performance begins. There is still much work to be done on this painting but I'm beginning to feel like I just might finish it before Fall Gallery Night!

A Corner of the Studio

2011-08-15T08:39:00.000-05:00

As I work, I am constantly backing away from the easel to view my paintings from a distance. In the corner is a mirror positioned where I can view the painting I'm working on (you can quickly spot mistakes when you see a painting backwards in a mirror). Sometimes I sit and ponder my next move or grab a nearby book and get inspired. I admire many artists, but none more than John Singer Sargent and Joaquin Sorolla, whose books are conveniently located together on my bookshelf.

The Angel in the Setting Sun

2011-08-11T07:48:00.000-05:00

"Bass Hall Angel" (detail - in progress)

A few thousand brushstrokes later and the Bass Hall angel is finished. Now I'm starting to paint the people on the balcony and the details on the rest of the building. I think this might be one of the most complicated paintings I've ever done!

Trinity River Goose

2011-08-08T07:42:00.000-05:00

One of the first paintings I completed this year was "Duck, Duck, Goose." (I posted about it here.) Before beginning that painting I did some sketches of the goose to familiarize myself with its particular shape and markings. I often find it helpful to get to know a subject this way before beginning a more detailed, finished painting.

Japanese Garden

2011-08-04T07:39:00.000-05:00

"Japanese Garden" 12" x 9" Oil

This painting was done on location at the Fort Worth Japanese Garden - a beautiful sanctuary within the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens. Deb and I enjoy visiting often, except when the thermometer reads 100 degrees, which it has for the past 30 + days! (Below is the front page of yesterday's paper).

A great blue heron stopped by while I was working, but he didn't stick around long enough for me to include him in the composition. I think this boy got a little too close for comfort!

Feathers Finally Finished

2011-08-01T08:03:00.000-05:00

"Bass Hall Angel" (detail - in progress)

Slowly but surely I'm making progress on my Bass Hall Angel painting. It has taken some time but the feathers are mostly done and now I'll carry on with the rest of the canvas. Trying to capture the feeling of the setting sun continues to be an enjoyable challenge!

Ballet Video

2011-07-28T07:36:00.002-05:00

Video and Music by Justin Tennison

Ballet On Canvas

2011-07-25T07:45:00.001-05:00

I've just finished the preliminary drawing for a new ballet painting. My subjects are Carolyn Judson and Lucas Priolo of the Texas Ballet Theater, who are performing "Love Always Remains" - a dance choreographed by Peter Zweifel, one of the principal dancers of the ballet company. I was privileged to see them rehearsing this work at Bass Hall. My plan is to show this painting on Fall Gallery Night - September 10th.

I will soon be posting again about the Texas Ballet Theater. My son has made a great short video about a painting I did titled "Dress Rehearsal at Bass Hall". Stay tuned!

Angel In Progress

2011-07-21T08:54:00.000-05:00

I'm continuing to work on my painting of the Bass Hall angel. I've still got a long way to go - but I'm enjoying the process!

Transition

2011-07-18T07:58:00.000-05:00

Video by Justin Tennison

Music by Badger The Third

I'm all moved in and feeling very grateful for my new studio. There is plenty of wall space and "elbow room" - and lots of natural light. I foresee this being a very inspiring and productive place.

I'm continuing to work on the super moon rise, as well as several other paintings. I really must finish what I've started!

Watercolor Hawks

2011-07-14T07:25:00.000-05:00

"Amon Carter Museum From Hawk's Eye View" 10" x 8" Watercolor

Before beginning the larger oil I plan to do of this composition, I first wanted to get familiar with the subject by painting this watercolor sketch.

The Cultural District Red Tailed Hawks

2011-07-11T07:03:00.000-05:00

A couple of months ago I was in Galerie Kornye West visiting with Paula (the owner) and she was telling me about a pair of red tailed hawks that are often seen flying around the Fort Worth Cultural District. I had never seen them before - until the very next day - when I happened to be driving by the museums and saw them flying high above. I got the idea to do a painting from the hawks' perspective, with the Amon Carter Museum below. These two pencil sketches are my first attempts at visualizing how the painting might look. I plan to first do a watercolor sketch and then a large oil.

I am indebted to Kelly Cone of Beck Architecture for risking his life for me by climbing up and down both cranes (each at least 100 feet high) to photograph the Amon Carter from "bird's eye view". Thanks Kelly! After he climbed down the second crane and we were about to leave, we happened to look up - and to our surprise and amazement - one of the hawks flew right by the crane!

New Studio!

2011-07-07T07:31:00.000-05:00

This is my new studio just south of downtown Fort Worth! I was offered this wonderful room for a studio by architect Robert W. Kelley, in his office at 209 S. Main Street. For the last thirty years I have always had a studio in my home - so this will be a new experience for me. After spending the last couple of days moving into my new space, I'm looking forward to getting back to painting!

Emerging Angel

2011-07-04T08:20:00.000-05:00

"Bass Hall Angel" 36" x 27" Oil

I've just started my painting of the Bass Performance Hall in evening light. Only a few thousand more brushstrokes to go!

Up Next

2011-07-01T07:48:00.000-05:00

"Up Next" 10" x 8" Watercolor

This competitor is next in line to perform in the World Championship Paint Horse Show. She's checking out her competition as she looks down the pathway that leads to the arena where she'll soon be performing in front of the judges.

Practicing Jumps

2011-06-29T08:16:00.001-05:00

"Practicing Jumps" 10" x 8" Watercolor

The Will Rogers Memorial Center is hosting the Youth World Championship Paint Horse Show this week. Outside the arena are practice areas where kids can warm up for their upcoming events.

Super Full Moon Beginning To Rise

2011-06-27T07:34:00.000-05:00

"Super Full Moon Rise Over Fort Worth" (in progress) 36" x 18" Oil

I just started laying in some color on this painting of the super full moon rise that occurred back in March. (I first posted about it here). I've never painted anything quite like this - a nighttime cityscape in a panoramic format. One of the gratifying things about my Year in Fort Worth project has been the variety of subjects I've had the opportunity to paint. That keeps it fun and challenging for sure!

Deep Greens and Blues (are the colors I choose)

2011-06-23T08:04:00.000-05:00

"Water Lily" (in progress) 11" x 14" Oil

Lily pads have the most amazing variety of warm and cool greens! I found these in a small pond at the Fuller Garden - within the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens.

I had a teacher (the kind who instills fear) in art school who once came by when I was painting in class and said my palette was more interesting than my painting. From that day forward I've tried to make my painting more interesting than my palette - but sometimes the palette wins out.

Concerts In The Garden

2011-06-21T07:29:00.000-05:00

Last weekend my wife, my daughter, my mother and I attended the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra's "Concerts in the Garden Summer Music Festival" at the beautiful Botanic Gardens. We enjoyed "Star Wars & Beyond: A Laser Light Spectacular," complete with symphony orchestra, laser light show and fireworks.

We all had a great time, as evidenced by this picture of my mother and daughter with Darth Vader and company.

Juneteenth

2011-06-19T06:26:00.000-05:00

"Juneteenth" 19" x 12" Watercolor

I saw this gentleman enjoying the live music at last year's Juneteenth Celebration in Sundance Sqaure. I couldn't resist painting him, with his colorful shirt and Monet umbrella to shield himself from the hot Texas sun. I finished the painting earlier this year and entered it in the Society of Watercolor Artists Annual International Juried Show. I was pleased to have it accepted in this show, which is on view here in Fort Worth at the Atrium Gallery - University of North Texas Health Science Center on Camp Bowie Boulevard - through June 30th.

Tubes and More Tubes

2011-06-17T08:01:00.000-05:00

These are just some of the tubes of paint I've used up this year working on my "Year in Fort Worth" paintings. I buy large tubes whenever possible because they're more economical and also they encourage me to be generous with the amount of paint I put on a canvas. John Singer Sargent said, "the thicker the paint, the more the color flows". John Carlson, another great artist, used to say that if you didn't have the money to buy paints, then paint only once a week - but paint like a millionaire!

Sometimes it feels like you need to be a millionaire to afford quality oils and watercolors! I use a tube-wringer to squeeze out every last drop of paint from the tube. And then I go back and buy some more.

Tubes of paint at Asel Art Supply

On The Easel

2011-06-14T17:48:00.000-05:00

It's good to be back in Fort Worth after several days in Idaho - even though the temperature there was about 30 degrees cooler! I've just begun a new painting of one of the Bass Hall angels in late afternoon/evening sunlight, (the "golden hour"), with concert-goers milling about the balcony before the performance. Hanging on the wall in the background is a recently completed portrait commission.

At The Show In Idaho

2011-06-11T08:07:00.000-05:00

Across the street from Devin Galleries

OPA Exhibit at Devin Galleries ("Autumn Dancer" in background)

Lake Coeur d'Alene near the hotel and gallery

I'm in beautiful Coeur d'Alene, Idaho for the Oil Painters of America National Juried Exhibition at Devin Galleries. (you can see all the paintings on display here). It is truly an honor to be included in this show and to meet so many great artists. Now I'm really inspired to get back to Fort Worth and continue painting life in the city!

The Collection is Growing

2011-06-07T07:48:00.000-05:00

I'm five months into my year long project now and the paintings are starting to accumulate. So far I've finished around 10 oil paintings, 2 larger watercolors and about 20 watercolor sketches. I'm not sure if I can keep up this pace since I have several portrait commissions that I am working on as well, but it looks like I may have a decent showing of paintings by the time the year is over. I've met a lot of great people, attended a lot of interesting events and seen a lot of wonderful sights - it has been a fun ride so far!

The Originals in 3D

2011-06-03T08:46:00.000-05:00

These four amazing dancers are the subjects in my recently completed painting, "Dress Rehearsal at Bass Hall." When I photographed them at the rehearsal several months ago, they were hard at work and I didn't have the opportunity to talk to them. But yesterday I had the privilege of meeting them at the studios of the Texas Ballet Theater. Thank you (from left to right as they appear in the painting) Lainey Logan, Allisyn Hsieh, Jaclyn Gill and Michelle LeBoeuf!

The Visitor

2011-05-30T08:47:00.000-05:00

"American Kestrel Hawk" 8" x 10" Watercolor

This little hawk appeared outside my studio window the other day. After some research (thank you Deb and Paula!), we determined it to be a juvenile female American Kestrel Hawk. She was obviously newly fledged and appeared a bit unsteady and unsure of her next move, as she perched on a rooftop just below our apartment. She stayed around for quite some time before gaining confidence to fly to a nearby tree and then off to parts unknown.

Texas Ballet Theater Dress Rehearsal

2011-05-26T07:44:00.001-05:00

"Dress Rehearsal at Bass Hall" 28" x 22" Oil

Back in February I had the opportunity to watch a dress rehearsal of the Texas Ballet Theater in Bass Hall as they practiced for their upcoming performance. I started this painting shortly after that experience and posted about it here. Earlier this week I put the finishing touches on the painting.

Trinity Trails Tree and Train Trestle

2011-05-23T09:09:00.001-05:00

"Train Trestle and Tree" 21" x 14" Watercolor

A short walk* from our apartment connects us to the Trinity Trails, a 40 mile stretch of trails for walking, running, biking and horse back riding along the Trinity River and its tributaries. This tree, with its gnarled and textured trunk caught my eye as we walked along the Trails in Trinity Park on a sunny afternoon in March. I like the way the old tree, with its curving forms, contrasts with the geometric structure of the elevated tracks. Trains can often be seen on these tracks as they make their way across the park.

* Just to clarify, James calls anything within a mile or two a "short walk." ~d.t.

Early Saturday Morning at The Flying Saucer

2011-05-19T09:42:00.000-05:00

"Early Saturday Morning" 36" x 27" Oil

I spent very little time in Fort Worth this week. Portrait commissions took me to Tennessee, South Carolina and North Carolina. So today I'm posting an older painting of The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium -- a downtown pub. I'm fascinated with the architecture of this building and I like the contrast of the old structure with the new skyscraper in the background. And, as always, I enjoy trying to capture the feeling of sunlight.

One of my favorite paintings by Edward Hopper is the one titled "Early Sunday Morning." This scene reminded me of that painting -- with the red brick building and the sunlight raking across its facade.

Extraordinary Moment

2011-05-15T13:52:00.000-05:00

"Barry Douglas Rehearsing with the FWSO" 8" x 10" Watercolor

Last week I had the incredible privilege of sitting in on a rehearsal of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra at Bass Hall. Guest pianist Barry Douglas, from Ireland, was in town to perform Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1 with the orchestra. (You can read the great review he got in the Star Telegram here.) I was so moved by this musical experience that I came home and painted this watercolor sketch.

I also had the privilege of meeting Barry Douglas after his performance and gave him the sketch as he autographed a couple of his cd's for me. Life is better with music!

"Autumn Dancer" Travels To Idaho

2011-05-10T10:38:00.000-05:00

"Autumn Dancer" 30" x 20" Oil

I am honored that my painting, "Autumn Dancer," has been accepted in the 2011 Oil Painters of America National Juried Art Exhibition. Each year this show is held in a different art gallery around the U.S., and this year Devin Galleries in Coeur D'Alene, Idaho is hosting the event from June 9th until July 10th.

My wife and I first saw the Sakura Dance Group at last year's Fall Festival at the Japanese Garden, and were impressed by the beauty and grace of the dancers in the glow of the afternoon sunlight. I photographed them again at the recent Spring Festival and plan to do more paintings. Thank you Mallory-san.

Sketch for "Autumn Dancer"

2011-05-07T08:27:00.000-05:00

Sketch for "Autumn Dancer" 10" x 8" Watercolor

When thinking of ideas for oil paintings, I often start with a watercolor in my sketchbook. Last year, after attending the Japanese Garden Fall Festival and watching the Sakura Dancers perform traditional dances, I was inspired to do this sketch of one of the dancers. I have since painted an oil of her and will soon show you the painting and tell you where it will be spending the month of June.

Progression of a Painting

2011-05-03T08:05:00.000-05:00

Video by Justin Tennison

Koto Player

2011-04-29T09:52:00.001-05:00

"Koto Performer" 10" x 8" Watercolor

While attending the Spring Festival at the Japanese Garden, we had the pleasure of listening to a lovely performance on the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. Actually, we almost missed this opportunity. After spending a morning at the festival, we were about to get in our car to leave when we saw this woman getting out of the car next to ours. A short conversation revealed that she would be performing at the festival, so we headed back to listen. It turned out to be one of the highlights of our day.

This first sketch is a study for a larger oil painting I am planning, which will be a more exact likeness of Fumiko, whose grace and charm touched us as much as her music.

Super Full Moon Rise

2011-04-25T13:38:00.008-05:00

"Super Full Moon Rise Over Fort Worth" (just started) 18" x 48" Oil

Study for "Super Full Moon" 6" x 8" Oil

On March 19 we witnessed a rare and beautiful sight as we watched the supermoon rise over Fort Worth. The last full moon that was so big and close was in 1993, and the next one will occur in November of 2016. Deb and I decided to view this event from the Amon Carter Museum and it turned out to be a perfect spot to capture the moon rising over the city. I thought it would be fun to paint this in a panoramic format and have stretched a canvas and roughly sketched in the skyline. I also painted a small study of the moon before beginning the larger painting. Hopefully I'll show you the finished product at a later date.

This Painting Is Under Construction

2011-04-21T10:31:00.000-05:00

"Last Light on First Methodist" (in progress) 24" x 18" Oil

I still remember the first time I saw Monet's series of paintings of Rouen Cathedral. These paintings completely fascinated me and I was amazed at the way he painted the facade of this church from the same viewpoint, at all times of day and under different light and weather conditions. He rented a second-story room across from the cathedral and would paint a total of 31 versions of this subject -- each one different from the last.

I suppose this series was in my subconscious when I was inspired to paint this view of the First United Methodist Church. The church is about three blocks away, and we see it every day from our north windows and our balcony. Trying to capture the late afternoon/evening sunlight as it illuminates the front of the church has been a challenge and a pleasure. I still have some details to add to the church towers and some finishing touches here and there -- hopefully I will complete it soon. Then maybe I'll paint another 30 versions of it.

Main Street Arts Festival

2011-04-18T17:34:00.000-05:00

"Main Street Arts Festival" 10" x 8" Watercolor

I spent the weekend attending festivals! Main Street, from the Tarrant County Courthouse to the Convention Center, was filled with all manner of arts and crafts, live music, food, activities for the kids, and thousands(!) of happy festival-goers here to enjoy the 26th annual Main Street Arts Festival.

This was also the weekend of the Japanese Garden Spring Festival, a Fort Worth tradition for over 30 years. There was much going on here as well, with dance, music, martial-arts demonstrations, kid activities, tea ceremonies, and more. In spite of all the activities, the garden somehow retains its beautiful, peaceful feel during these spring and fall festivals. (Although the tranquility was momentarily interrupted by a flyover of five fighter jets -- it was also the weekend of the air show at the Fort Worth Naval Air Station.) I'll soon post a sketch from the Spring Festival.

Ode To Joy

2011-04-15T10:10:00.000-05:00

"Adventures in Music" 8" x 10" Watercolor

Over one thousand fourth-grade students filed into the sanctuary of a large local church one recent morning, recorders in hand, to hear and to play with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra. It was an amazing and emotional experience to witness the joy and enthusiasm with which this young multitude played and sang along with the orchestra.

This incredible experience was made possible for these children by the Fort Worth Symphony's education programs. The Painted Violin project I posted about in January and February is one event that helped fund this program.

Magenta, Yellow and Cyan

2011-04-12T08:01:00.000-05:00

When I am thinking of ideas for paintings I often start with quick watercolors in my sketchbook. My concern here is not for detail but for composition, color and general "feel" of the painting. Sometimes these studies don't get beyond the sketch stage, but when I do decide to develop them into larger paintings I find they are extremely helpful. In fact, I rarely paint a larger painting without having done a small version either in watercolor or oil, or sometimes both. This watercolor is my initial sketch for another painting I plan to do of our local Ballet Folklorico dancers.

The View From Our Balcony

2011-04-08T09:38:00.000-05:00

"Balcony View" 12" x 16" Oil

This view is always fascinating to me - at all times of day and in every season. Weather permitting, I like to drink my morning cup of coffee on the balcony as I watch the city wake up.

The buildings take on a different character and color scheme with every change of weather (sun, storm, fog, snow) and with every passing moment at sunrise and sunset. It would take a thousand paintings to capture this ever-changing view. I painted this one in the late afternoon.

The county courthouse (you can see its clock tower in the middle of the painting) is about a mile from here. Restoration work is about to begin on the clock tower, so I took some photos this week before the scaffolding goes up and plan to paint a nighttime view of the building from Main Street.

Portrait In Progress

2011-04-04T12:38:00.000-05:00

I'm about half finished with the portrait I started at the end of February. I hope to finish it this month and ship it off to my very patient client.

Other things I'm working on this month include a nighttime view of the downtown courthouse, Spring in the Japanese Garden, and the incredible moonrise of March 19. Some of these paintings will be showing up here in the near future.