Tuesday, November 11, 2008

What the....?


Well I thought I would give myself a challenge this weekend with my new oils. (not the best photo of the painting) They are amazing. I had resisted using them because of odors, toxicity concerns etc. I was told to try odorless solvent (TALTINE) and must admit, I am noticing some irritation in my sinuses. I don't know if it's the solvent or the paints. My "studio" is a reasonable size, but in the winter it is tough to keep the windows open. Any suggestions or thoughts on this? I'd really appreciate any input, as I'd like to get started properly with this new medium. As near as I can reckon, this is about my 63rd painting. When I first started, an accomplished art professional that helped me along was Nick Bjelajac. He suggested that I might get to where I'd like to be as an artist after I'd completed about 200 paintings. Now that I've been re-inspired, this has become a real goal. It is a genuine thrill for me to declare ... 

12" x 12" 

oil on masonite.

4 comments:

  1. Such a pleasure to talk with you, Vern. I hope you figure out the smelly part of painting in oils so it will be a pleasure from beginning to end.

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  2. Definitely crack a window when you're working and maybe try Gamsol, which is the most wonderful odorless solvent I've used. I had the same reticence about using oils and am now thrilled with the medium.
    Aren't Karin Jurick's challenges fun?

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  3. Thanks Connie, I will try Gamasol if I can find it. Our art store doesn't carry all the brands, but maybe I can order it in. The smell has gone down somewhat and I have cracked the window from time to time. Love the oils, and love the challenges.

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  4. I relate to your genuine thrill in saying "Oil on canvas" for the first time. I resisted it for ages too for all the same reasons. I have not let myself go back to acrylics (knock on wood) because I just can't beat the sensuality of the oil result. Welcome to the club! Oh, and I got tagged too by Alice Thompson. I hope you'll play the game. I like your version of the DSFDF painting.

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