A Year of Paintings
A year ago this month I started painting. Our neighborhood mayor of the arts Keith Greiman asked me to contribute a couple pieces to the Fairmount House year end fundraising show, “High Spirits”. I was so excited and nervous. Most of my work before this has been digital, just drawing on the iPad and computer or drawing things on paper before scanning them in. Painting things felt really intimidating, hanging my artwork on a gallery wall felt intimidating. But I said yes and made these paintings and they ended up selling before I even got to the gallery. I was buzzing with excitement.
After that Keith asked me to participate in a smaller show with three other artists I kept referring to as three cool dudes. I got to work making more paintings, even more nervous and excited about the prospect of being shown next to such talented artists. Everyone was so nice and encouraging and it really boosted my confidence to keep going.
My friend Karen commissioned me to make some art for her new office suite. She let me go realllllllly big, which was so much fun.
I made these little “Peace Pigeons” for another local art fundraiser.
I primed a bunch of boards and started playing around, painting sea creatures, and trying to loosen up my style. I started really having fun and some really wonderful folks supported my work by buying these little guys.
I got this really fun commission from my friend Jenn to make some art for her family’s house in the Poconos. I filled it with little icons from the woods surrounding their home. It was so satisfying to make.
And now it’s time for the second “High Spirits” show at the Fairmount House this Friday the 13th from 6-9pm in Northern Liberties. 206 Fairmount Ave. I’ll have these little ponies and warblers for sale. Come on out and say high! It will be a lot of fun and it’s feeling like a great way to celebrate my first year of painting.
I also just added this little Flower Owl to my shop available now if it speaks to you.
Thanks so much to all the friends to supported me this year. Whether you commissioned some work, came out to a show, or just left an encouraging note. It really means the world to me. I think this is just the start of a really interesting journey and I’m kind of blown away by how these doors have opened. Thanks to Jason for always encouraging to make whatever I want. He’s a gem. And for Elliott always telling me “It’s great” and “can I keep it”. I’m so thankful for you all being here!
My Shop: phillycornerstore.bigcartel.com
E-mail: halestormenator@gmail.com