National Museum of Wildlife Art

While on my recent road trip, I visited the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson. My first impression as I browsed the galleries was “WOW!” The size of some of the Carl Rungius paintings was astounding… some at 10’ or more! I spent a great deal of time studying the works of Bob Kuhn and Ken Carlson. I had no idea the Kuhn worked mostly in acrylics. Simply amazing. Ken Carlson has always been a favorite and to examine his paintings up close was a real treat. I’ve always admired the economy of his brushwork… so much is conveyed with a single accurate stroke.

The Western Visions Art Show and Sale occupied much of the gallery space. I was happy to see works from many of my friends hanging on the walls. Is it possible I may soon join them? We’ll see.

It’s hard to imagine anything standing up to the grandeur of Grand Teton National Park, but the Museum is an absolute “must see” for anyone visiting the area. I know I’ll be back.

Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Bugs in the Grill

Wyoming was magnificent. Entering Yellowstone through the Beartooth Mountains was about as breathtaking as a drive can get. I was in Yellowstone for less than 5 minutes when I spotted 4 mountain goats on a distant rock face. That was totally unexpected as mountain goats are fairly rare in the park. From that point on, I knew it was going to be a productive adventure.

It seemed as though each bend in the road revealed yet another treasure… mountain bluebirds… hundreds of bison… and so many antelope, I hate to venture a guess! One afternoon while exploring the Gros Ventre area of Grand Teton, I was treated to the site of a cow moose far across the river. By the time the encounter was over, she was less than 15 yards from me browsing on willows. Yes… that’s a little too close for something that big!

A morning photographing bugling bull elk in Grand Teton Park put the perfect end to a spectacular week.

Some 4400 miles and 1200 photos later, I’m finally back in the studio. During the drive, there were many stretches of highway where so many bugs were hitting the windshield, it sounded like a hard rain. Not good for highway vision!

More Birds in Art 2009

It’s hard to believe the Birds in Art weekend in Wausau is drawing to a close. We’ve crammed so many activities and met so many people in such a short time, it will take more than just a few minutes to sit down and sort it all out. It will make good food for thought on my long drive to Wyoming tomorrow. The Woodson Museum staff always manages to make things appear to run smooth, though similarly to the duck gliding on glassy water, underneath there must be frantic paddling.

Thank you to all my friends (both new and old) for helping expand my artistic knowledge. It seems my thirst for this type of thing has no limit as I look to hone my abilities and try new things.

Perhaps a few long moments on the side of a tall mountain are necessary to put it all in perspective. Life seems very good right now and bursting with possibilities.

"Sienna"

"End of May"

So what is it about watercolor that people find so appealing? Is it the relative liberal use of color? Is it the loose and free style in which they are painted? Honestly, I don't know. I love good watercolor paintings and I really don't know why. Anyone out there have a thought on this?

"Three Aspens"

I never seem to paint enough watercolors. They're popular with collectors and always look amazing at shows. I'm just a lot more comfortable working in acrylics... for that matter, oils too.

Aspens make great subjects for paintings. I always find the markings and contrast irresistible. I completed this small piece this morning and it was really a lot of fun. "Three Aspens" is 8 3/8 x 5 1/8.

"Loonshine"

It took me a little longer than expected to finish this one off, but I’m pleased with the overall results. The background is still a little busy for my liking, but I’m not going to paint it out and rework it at this stage. Softening the edges helped. A very thin wash of flesh pink also added to the elusion of depth.

Sharing the progress was a lot of fun… and a little stressful. I’ll have to give it another shot again soon.