edd tokarz harnas

Fab Faces

2012-01-24T17:10:00.002-10:00

The "face series" is really a two part process. I make these little 6x8 inch oil sketches/paintings (some more finished than others), and when I have a small stack to choose from, I assemble them in groups of four, six or nine faces. The idea in the first step is to experiment with different faces and portraits; in the second step, mount them together, and figure out how to unify them.

Most of the faces are random finds or photographs I've taken. But, there are a couple recognizable faces too (more in future blogs). Here are four "fab faces" in progress. I have since trimmed the canvas and mounted them together to begin the final highlights.

ETH-n.a. currently untitled (12x16") oil (2011-12)

Against the knee

2012-01-19T06:28:00.002-10:00

One of the first new nudes of the year...

ETH-2357 "Sketch: against the knee" (8x10") ballpoint pen (2012)

The Christmas Print

2012-01-14T09:32:00.004-10:00

Obviously, this is a piece, from last September, that I couldn't share immediately on the blog because it was slated to be my Christmas print for 2011. This is a giclee that I give to family. It's based on series of photos my brother Emil took of his Night Blooming Cereus as he patiently waited through the night to take. I liked how he lit it, and since other family members also have one, I thought it was a nice idea for 2011.

ETH-2305 "Audrey" (10x12") oil (2011)

More faces..

2012-01-10T06:32:00.003-10:00

I've been pretty consistent over the past few months of starting the painting day with a "face." Some take a few minutes, like a fast gesture drawing in a life drawing class, and some I like to take some time on. Here are three more recent pieces that could go into the next collection.

ETH-n.a. (no titles) (6x8") oil (2011-2012)

2012-01-06T06:35:00.005-10:00

This one I did a while back (last summer). It's from one of my morning walks in which I took the camera along. This is one of my rarer morning routes: only a few times a year. It's past Kapiolani Park, up Diamond Head Road along the base of Diamond Head, past the lighthouse, and then take the trail down to the beach and double back toward Waikiki along the shore. It's a pretty good little hike with wonderful views. My August 30, 2011 blog is a view from the aforementioned trail. This particular scene is still up on the road looking down through the thicket toward the ocean.

By the way, this blog is just a few days after from it's 10,000th page view. Sometimes, milestones help you feel that you've accomplished something.

ETH-2285 "Diamond Head Beach through the trees" (8x10") oil (2011)

Squeeze in one last one this year..

2011-12-31T06:08:00.003-10:00

I look forward to some interesting and exciting projects with the coming year. But taking a moment to look back, I'm posting one more drawing from the year. I would also like to thank you for visiting this blog and taking a look at the work I've been doing. All the best for ALL of OUR creativity in 2012.

ETH-2292 "Sketch: body at rest" (8x10") ballpoint pen (2011)

Shades of grey

2011-12-29T21:05:00.002-10:00

Last summer, Amelia told me about the Gamblin Torrit Grey competition. Having done black and white painting in the past, I thought I'd give it a try. I entered three pieces which are on view at the Gamblin website.

ETH-2299 "Kitchen Stuff" (8x10") oil (2011)

Little Gems is coming..

2011-12-24T11:29:00.002-10:00

I usually close out the year working on the smaller works intended for the "Little Gems" exhibit at West End Gallery . This will be the first exhibit there for the 2012 year, and features smaller works. I have a few ready to go including this one here.

Oh, and a Merry Christmas and a great 2012!

ETH-2348 "[currently untitled]" (5x7") oil on panel (2011)

There's a chill in the air...

2011-12-21T06:09:00.002-10:00

Maybe it'd be a good idea to wear some socks if the floors are cold...

ETH-2286 "Sketch: cold floor" (8x10") ballpoint pen (2011)

8 new faces

2011-12-18T22:31:00.003-10:00

The portrait series continues...

ETH-n.a. miscellaneous (6x8" each) oil on canvas (2011)

A new art show..

2011-12-14T21:33:00.003-10:00

If you're in downtown Honolulu with a little extra time, check out the "For The Love Of Art" exhibit in the lobby of Pauahi Tower. I have recent three pieces in the show.

Besides portraits, there are figure pieces too..

2011-12-13T06:17:00.003-10:00

And let's not forget some recent figure work in drawing and painting media [well, one is recent, but neither have been posted here, yet].

ETH-1827 "Home From Work" (8x10") pencil (2010)

ETH-2309 "Watching the Tile Cutter" (8x10") oil on panel (2011)

Exploring..

2011-12-07T22:09:00.002-10:00

My morning walks take me to various areas in and around Waikiki. I try to remember to take along the camera.. just in case it's an extra spectacular sunrise. But I come across other great subject matter as well, like the outriggers resting along the Ala Wai. I first planned to blur out the buildings and palms in the background, but it got too messy. So, hell, I covered it all over in favor of a warm sky over a beach.

ETH-2306 "Outriggers" (8x10") oil on panel (2011)

About face..

2011-12-01T06:03:00.006-10:00

First off, I apologize, but the first two titles that came to mind for this post were even worse puns...

Secondly, the other day, I was photographing some recent artwork, and put four face studies together for an eventual post. Turns out, they were the same four faces posted last week, only the top two were reversed. Apparently, they are meant to be a set!

So here are a few very recent individual pieces in my continuing face studies series.

ETH-n.a. ("face studies") (6x8" each) oil (2011)

Advisory

2011-11-27T16:38:00.001-10:00

It was come to my attention that someone is selling a print of one of my paintings (below). NO ONE is authorized to publish prints and sell prints at this time. On eBay, I ONLY list original paintings and drawings, and only occasionally a giclee print that comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

ETH-2237 "Study: reach" (7x9") oil (2011)

From where I live

2011-11-26T16:58:00.000-10:00

Here from the mountain side of Waikiki, I get to see the light reflect on the multi-faceted ridges of the volcanic formed mountains. Sometimes it seems like snowflakes: no two views are ever the same. And the cloud patterns and colors add to it all. You can almost feel the breeze in this one.

ETH-2273 "3 Palms" (8x10") oil on panel (2011)

People watching..

2011-11-22T17:06:00.001-10:00

The small portrait studies continue. On "painting days," I often start with one, like a warm up exercise. [Although I spent most of the day on today's "face."] Here are four more recent face studies.

ETH-na (face studies) (6x8" each) oil (2011)

The nude series continues as well.

ETH-2303 "Sketch: the legs" (8x10") ballpoint pen (2011)

A small piece of the ocean..

2011-11-14T06:06:00.001-10:00

This is a small piece depicting some waves I photographed on one morning walk. I like working with the patterns and color changes in the water -- always have. This is at West End Gallery for the Holiday show.

ETH-2313 "Low Tide" (5x7") oil (2011)

And speaking of holidays, I've been holding back on the following piece waiting for it to arrive for Adriana's birthday. Well, it finally did the other day, exactly one month late! It represents a nice little connection between German engineering and the Hawaiian beaches..

ETH-2304 "Beach Bus" (6x8") oil (2011)

Black and white nude

2011-11-11T06:21:00.000-10:00

Sometimes the background of a painting can give you the most grief. If too much, it's a distraction, if not enough, you run the risk that your piece is labelled "unfinished." More and more, I'm going for that "less is more" background. And to hell what the critics say!

ETH-2310 "Study: reaching up" (8x10") oil (2011)

2 more faces..

2011-11-04T06:03:00.001-10:00

Two more little face studies from this past week. Eventually, they'll end up in some larger encompassing portrait project (like "6 Faces" June 28, 2011).

ETH-n.a. (currently untitled) (6x8") oil (2011)

Don't get out much..

2011-11-02T06:16:00.001-10:00

I know it's a small island, but I don't necessarily get to the other side all that often. But there are times I go with friends to visit other friends over there. And I take along the camera, just in case. The windward side of the Ko'olaus feature some very pronounced ridges (and during rainy season, several long and beautiful waterfalls). So, I ended up with a quick shot of late afternoon sun on the mountains.

Since I'm not very confident painting anything green (I wonder how many sessions that'll take to resolve!), I started doing a couple of small studies, for practice. I think I got what I'm after with the second one. Now, if I can replicate that in the "final version."

ETH-? "(currently untitled)" (8x10" each) oil (2011)

Incidentally, I recently learned about Alexa.com, which ranks how popular a website is. I checked mine out, and today, I'm 23,502,050! So, I think it's time to bust out the kitten video!

More than just nudes..

2011-10-30T07:34:00.000-10:00

Although a great many of my ballpoint drawings in recent years have been about nudes, I occasionally diverge. This is a very recent example.

ETH-2315 "Shelf Life " (8x10") ballpoint (2011)

Another recent study..

2011-10-26T06:09:00.000-10:00

This is another recent study from over the summer. I believe it might even been done with the Torrit Grey; I did quite a few with the competition in mind. Smoking also figured in quite a few images in recent months as well..

ETH_2283 "Study: in a fog" (6x8") oil (2011)

Seascape studies..

2011-10-24T20:35:00.000-10:00

While I'm working on some ideas for new projects, I keep busy doing small studies: portraits, and Hawaiian land and seascapes. In this case, as an experiment, I did two at the same time.

ETH-2311 "Blue Horizon 1" (5x7") oil (2011)

ETH-2312 "Blue Horizon II" (8x10") oil (2011)

More faces..

2011-10-18T20:35:00.001-10:00

I prep small remnants of canvas and use them to do these impromptu portrait studies. Sort of a life drawing class, only they're usually based on interesting photos I find. Previously, some of these studies were compiled into one bigger piece (posted June 28, 2011). "6 Faces" was recently shown in a shown downtown Honolulu.

I have three other pieces in the "Portraits and Figures" show at Che Pasta, downtown Honolulu until late November.

misc studies (6x8") oil (2011)

Specks of color

2011-10-15T05:45:00.000-10:00

Sometimes, just a little bit of color makes a difference. This is a shot from Amelia's great European Adventure of 2011. It is pretty literally replicated.. but Roland suggested a little spot of light in the area of the buildings would create an interesting focal point. And he's right..

ETH-2262 "Swiss Winter Haze" (8x10) oil on canvas (2011)

A recent drawing

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

This is a recent ballpoint pen drawing.

ETH-2282 "Sketch: relaxed pose" (8x10") ballpoint pen on Strathmore paper (2011)

Another of my morning buddies..

2011-10-02T05:50:00.000-10:00

One of my morning walk routes takes me along a small street that feeds into the Ala Wai. Here's another painting based on some photos I took of the ducks that hang out over there. It's from the same series of pictures that yielded the Sept 24, 2011 painting. I like how I handled each in a very different style. This one is one its way to West End Gallery (flying east in the fall rather than south!)

ETH-2303 "Waddling" (5x7") oil (2011)

Better late than never

2011-09-30T06:18:00.000-10:00

Amelia is my daughter and frequently appears as a subject in my artwork. She is a talented artist and musician in her own right. I don't recall when I first saw her "wine stain" series, but I thought it was the most unique, creative idea I had seen in a long time.

Recently, several blogs have picked up on her series, and now I feel like a johnny-come-lately because I never thought to promote others on this blog. Call me self-centered, but at least I know when to correct a mistake! Here's a teaser of what you can see at her website:

Truly Amelia: Wine Stains

And here's another little piece that I did. It's all packed and ready to go to West End Gallery for the next show.

ETH-2290 "Cornflower" (5x7") oil on canvas (2011)

Not quite black and white

2011-09-28T06:25:00.000-10:00

Amelia brought the Torrit Grey competition [Gamblin Artists Colors] to my attention this past year. It's a limited edition color made of recycled pigments. I entered three images recently, BUT none of the nude studies I attempted with the color. Maybe next time...

ETH-2276 "Study: Torrit nude #3" (9x12") oil (2011)

Morning inspirations...

2011-09-24T08:39:00.000-10:00

First, I have two pieces in the 42nd Annual Contemporary Artists of Hawaii show (Pauahi Tower, downtown Honolulu). The exhibit runs to October 15. Both pieces have appeared on this blog, but you'll have to go to see which ones.

I often take my camera on my morning walks to capture high south swells, and the sunrises. But there are other little inspirations as well. Like these little feathered friends who congregate along this little stream that feeds into the Ala Wai. This is one of two recent studies based on those photos.

ETH-2301 "currently untitled" (5x7") oil (2011)

Ease and convenience...

2011-09-21T05:54:00.000-10:00

There are two main reasons I like drawing with the ballpoint pen. 1) There is the ease and convenience... If I have some extra time, I can pick up where I left off. There's no setup and no messy clean up, no solvent smell etc. The trick is finding the right pen: comfortable to use and "responsive" (ever pick up a pen, and have to scribble for a while before it starts! I HATE THAT!)

The 2) reason is that I like how the piece can have that "etching look" at the end. Unfortunately, it never really shows up well in these photographs, but it is definitely noticeable when you hold and look at the actual piece.

ETH-2250 "Sketch: behind him" (10x12") ballpoint pen (2011)

Another side of the island..

2011-09-14T20:47:00.000-10:00

There have been a couple of really big south swells in the past few weeks, and I managed to get some shots for future artwork. I'm getting into the habit of remembering to take my camera on my morning walks. Meanwhile, here's a painting based on a photo shoot on the North Shore. Not quite the epic waves Waimea is known for, but dramatic none the less. This particular spot is called Grater -- when a wave throws you up against those rocks, you'll understand why.

I have a couple of other North Shore scenes, as well as other Hawai'i themed artwork scheduled to show at the 4th Annual Napa Valley Aloha Festival (http://www.manaleohcf.org/alohafestival.htm) this Saturday, 9/17.

ETH-2248 "Grater" (16x20) oil (2011)

A new distinction...

2011-09-12T05:32:00.000-10:00

Apparently, I can be "controversial." This painting was made especially for and entered into the Schaefer Portrait Challenge, a Hawai'i-based competition. I saw the last show for it at TCM at First Hawaiian Bank a few years ago (it is held every three years), and vowed to enter "the next one."
The competition is open to Hawai'i artists portraying Hawai'i residents; self-portraits (killing two birds with one stone) are also acceptable. So over the summer I buckled down, and came up with this one. It reflects a time of great frustrations as an artist (from the capitalist, not the creative side) as well as national and world events: the debt ceiling bullshit, the resulting world market roller coaster, etc.
The Oahu jurying for the competition was held over the weekend, and yours truly will have to wait another three years to try again. But, unlike most competitions I've entered, I actually got some feedback when I retrieved the painting.
It seems I sparked some controversy among the three jurors over the unfinished quality, especially the eyes; otherwise it stood a chance.
So note to future jurors of Edd's work: if I sign it, it is DONE.

ETH-2288 "Portrait of the Artist, Pissed Off By A Variety of Things" (10x10") oil (2011)

What a difference a glaze makes..

2011-09-06T07:17:00.001-10:00

I did this first little piece at the end of '10 based on one of my German trip photos. This is from Marburg as we hiked up the hill toward the Schloss (castle). It turned out all right, but something was missing. Just recently, I gave it a nice varnishing with a warm tone. I think it made all the difference.

ETH-2149 "Toward the Castle" (5x7") oil (2010)

And then we have a little nude study from earlier this year as we attempt to catch up.

ETH-2241 "Study: flexes" (5x7") oil (2011)

One thing leads to a another..

2011-09-03T18:35:00.001-10:00

I saw down with the idea of just doing a quick portrait study for this Torrit Grey thing (July 11, 2011). As I was working on it, I was thinking how pasty white the face was. Then I started thinking of clown makeup being very white. Then I thought, let's have a little fun..

ETH_2294 "Dead Clown" (6x8") oil (2011)

Surf's up...

2011-08-30T05:56:00.000-10:00

Yesterday, took the camera along on my morning walk to catch some sunrise-coloured clouds. But the shot that excited me most was of the Natatorium with a row of palms, not unlike "Beach Park" (Apr 16, 2010). I started a 16x20 of that later in the day.

Today, the south swell is supposed to be the best in YEARS. So the camera comes along again. Here's a painting from a previous camera outing. I wonder if any Hawaii folks recognize it...

ETH-2281 "Trail to the Surf" (8x10) oil (2011)

More catching up..

2011-08-26T21:26:00.000-10:00

This is a quick study from a couple of months ago..

ETH-2269 "Study: b&w butt" (8x10") oil (2011)

Progress report

2011-08-25T05:53:00.000-10:00

I checked back, and I see I first posted the initial phase in early May. Geez... I thought this has been sitting around for a lot longer. I've painted the sky so many different times and ways, that I'm surprised the paint isn't a half-inch thick.

A friend who dropped in yesterday saw it drying on the shelf and told me he loves it -- he thinks it's the best he's seen of my work! Mentioned something about Edgar Cayce...

ETH-2291 "Joan Takes Agatha To See" (8x10") oil (2011)

New opportunities

2011-08-19T06:09:00.000-10:00

Former Maui artist Carolyn Quan has invited me to send some work over for the Annual Napa Valley Aloha Festival September 17 (Napa, CA). As we get closer to the event, I hope to have more information to share. This piece will be included.

ETH-2247 "Paddlers Turn" (8x10") oil (2011)

OK, back to artwork..

2011-08-14T05:39:00.000-10:00

I used to have this [annoying?] habit of not going back to rework a painting, no matter how I felt about it afterward. Apparently, I felt the piece had to remain as some sort of sacrosanct artifact documenting the time it was created. I would rip it up first before touching it up.

But that was "then." Stuff I paint that doesn't excite me as much at the end as when I started (full of hope) ends up in stack somewhere. Later, they get looked at, and I assess my mood again. Sometimes, they "survive," other times, they are not so lucky. But at least now, I'm not afraid to rework a painting if it's close to what I want.

This is the case with today's piece. The composition is unchanged, but there was this predominate pink-ish undertone, and the paint was very loose (it looked like wallpaper for a French whorehouse). So, I recently went back, and gave this one a little more time, tried to keep the pinkish sky within reason, and I like it much better. Another view mauka view from my house.

ETH-1710 "twilight palm" (10x10") oil (2011)

Just because you're an artist..

2011-08-13T05:48:00.001-10:00

Sometimes, when people find out you're an artist, they "commission" things like.. signs! They don't realize there is a difference: because I can draw or paint does NOT mean I can letter. And trust me, I suck at signs!

I now segue and "cover my ass" by saying I also am NOT a cartoonist. Now I suppose, with a little practice, I could do all right in either category, but I'm 'content' right now just being a struggling artist.

Anyway, the other day, I happened to see a good size fish jump in the Ala Wai Canal, and I just started this strange series of thoughts. But I pretty much "decided" that the time the fish is in the air must be the equivalent of the time when we people make a dive and are temporarily under water. Which lead to this "Far Side" cartoon idea..

After a busy day with HTML

2011-08-09T16:16:00.001-10:00

I spent a good deal of Monday re-inventing the layout of my website (www.eddtokarzharnas.com). At the moment, it's pretty much the same artwork as before, but a lot less scrolling and more clicking. I was informed that people don't like to scroll; I hope he's right, because as I said, it took ALL day.

Third in the series

2011-08-04T20:27:00.000-10:00

I took the photos in early June 2010, and posted the first resulting painting June 22, 2010. I wonder why I never posted the second one.

ETH-2245 "Pacific Pyrotechniques No. 3" (9x12) oil (2011)

All over the map

2011-08-02T04:55:00.000-10:00

Here is another little piece based on Amelia's European travels earlier this year. A cousin to the April 20, 2011 posting.

ETH-2280 "Italian Sunset" (7x8") oil (2011)

It may seem..

2011-07-29T06:08:00.000-10:00

..that I've been doing a lot of work lately -- but it's more like I've been catching up on posting work that's been done a while ago (like January!)

ETH-2218 "sketch: from behind" (8x10) ballpoint pen (2011)

Overkill

2011-07-27T06:26:00.001-10:00

West End Gallery continues to show some of my work and I appreciate that. They are in the Finger Lakes region of New York and this time of year (especially with the hotter than usual weather), the lakes are an even bigger draw. Keeping in mind the prevalence of the lake culture there, I send relevant pieces to the gallery, like "Sunrise at the Marina," and "Marina Morning."

For a recent show however, I sent a seascape, based on a shot from the North Shore, Oahu. I doubt you'd ever see "ripples" like this on Seneca or Keuka.

ETH-2240 "Deep Blue Sea" (12x16) oil (2011)

Apparently, there is some backlog..

2011-07-22T06:42:00.000-10:00

I try to put up some recent artwork at least once or twice a week. During prodigious times, this causes a few older pieces to become neglected. A backlog occurs. I need to work on this..

ETH-1855 "Sketch: [no subtitle]" (8x10") ballpoint pen (2010)

Going for a different look..

2011-07-17T17:48:00.000-10:00

In this painting, I was trying to get the idea of the breaking wave without all the usual detail. I worked on this over the course of several days -- allowing the layers to dry so that I had more control with scumbling the paint, rather than blending it.

ETH-2279 "Misty Wave" (12x15") oil (2011)

My current challenge..

2011-07-11T21:08:00.001-10:00

Amelia recently told me about "Torrit Grey" and it's related painting competition. Hell, with my history of painting in black and white, I was up for the challenge. So I've been setting aside about 1/2 of my studio time the last few weeks working on just torrit grey & white studies. One of those pieces is a nude; I'll photograph it when it is dry. Here are a couple of smaller portraits; my intention is to "collage" the four best like I did with "6 Faces" [May 30, 2011]. Progress reports forthcoming..

untitled (6x8") oil (2011)

Firepower update

2011-07-04T12:03:00.001-10:00

I first blogged about this piece June 20, 2011. The "firepower" has been added. Drama has been heightened. All in good time.

ETH-2272 "Strangers in the Night" (11x14") oil (2011)

Progress report...

2011-06-28T05:49:00.000-10:00

Previously (May 30, 2011), I was toying with the idea of assembling a couple of recent small portrait studies into one larger piece. Individually, they were OK, and were interesting studies to do. But they just didn't any visual punch until they were grouped together. Now, people will scratch their heads, wondering what the significance is!

ETH-2270 "6 Faces" (16x18) oil (2011)

Making a Fashion Statement

2011-06-21T19:28:00.000-10:00

It's certainly important for an artist to promote their artwork. Blogs, websites, etc. But Roland recently suggested doing the iron on t-shirt transfers. Hey, it's worth a try! This is the first one, of "Evening Palms," first blogged April 14, 2011. (Just hope I don't immediately drip pizza sauce on it now!)

Another work in progress

2011-06-20T08:47:00.001-10:00

I started this painting a few months ago, but (as you can see) I didn't know how to finish it. But after a recent visit with Amelia (featured) and hearing her talk about the proposed pyrotechnics for the "60 Hours of Art" , I realized some "firepower" was needed. So I started that the other day; update forthcoming.

ETH-n.a. (currently untitled) (11x14") oil (2011)

A small study

2011-06-16T06:47:00.000-10:00

I did this quick study just before my recent trip. When I got back, the paint was dry, so I could handle the piece, and take a photo for you.

ETH-2268 "Hat With Net" (6x8) oil (2011)

A recent figure study..

2011-06-06T05:00:00.000-10:00

I normally would have finished the black background, but I liked how the strong contrast reinforced the sense of shadow and contrast on the figure. (Saves on paint too.)

ETH-2263 "Study: statuesque" (8x10") oil (2011)

Difference of Opinion

2011-06-02T06:45:00.000-10:00

A couple people think the contrails look too much like scratches. Couple others think they're cool. And thanks Amelia, for thinking of me.

ETH-2261 "Swiss Contrails" (6x7") oil (2011)

Collage of Faces

2011-05-30T05:39:00.000-10:00

The video for the "60 Hours of Art" event is 90-some % done. Although it stresses the artwork created due to inspiration from life in paradise, I had to include a few other pieces... just to break things up I suppose. So I collected the 6 best of my little portrait experiments to create this collage. A couple have already been shown individually in the past, but I like how they work together. Maybe I should figure out how to keep them together in one big piece.

misc portrait experiments (6x8" each) oil (2010-2011)

What's my excuse?

2011-05-23T12:37:00.000-10:00

I'm disappointed when some blogs I follow are updated for days on end. So, what's MY excuse!?

Well, I have had some other projects to deal with. And I AM working on an art video for 60 Hours of Art. So here's something from earlier this year to tide you over.

ETH-2223 "Surfer #7" (8x10") oil (2011)

Almost...

2011-05-19T06:28:00.000-10:00

This photo doesn't quite reflect (pardon the pun) the real skin tone in the painting (pinker)... and it needs a little bit more tweaking. But it's almost there.

ETH-2260 "Upstream" (11x14") oil 2011

What I've been working on..

2011-05-09T06:20:00.001-10:00

This is what I worked on over the weekend. Actually this photo is after the first day; there's a little more since that gives you an idea that this is going in an unexpected direction. Once in a while, I do the blue and white underpainting technique and will glaze the colour in at the end.

ETH-na [working title: Joan Convinces Agatha to Go See the Ring of Faces" (8x10") oil (2011)

May Day is Lei Day

2011-05-01T22:24:00.001-10:00

And to celebrate, I guess you could say, I worked on the lei on Duke Kahanamoku's statue. I have a few more sections to tweak, but we're pretty much there...

ETH-2253 [currently untitled] (8x10") oil (2011)

Juried Show results

2011-04-30T18:57:00.001-10:00

Yes, this is technically a "rerun." But this is to inform you that this piece was chosen today for the Windward Artists Guild 51st Annual Juried Exhibition at Pauahi Tower, Honolulu through May 27. [Sorry Amelia, judge didn't take you Nijmegen portrait; but I've got something else in mind for that...]

ETH-2201 "Made in Occupied Japan" (6x8") oil (2010)

Another, from this particular series

2011-04-27T06:06:00.000-10:00

This was a short series, since I don't do very much in the "still life" category. Already posted: "Made in Occupied Japan" [11-28-10] and "mess kit" [04-07-11]. This short series reflects Roland's short spurt in bringing home this sort of collectible. At West End Gallery.

ETH-2203 "A Leyse Product, 1 qt" (6x8") oil (2010)

New, to you

2011-04-24T05:39:00.001-10:00

Updated my website yesterday with two new (to you) items on the main page, and a couple additions in the "Archive."

ETH-2233 "Waimea, Oahu #2)(12x16") oil (2011)

Something a little more serious

2011-04-20T06:30:00.000-10:00

This is based on Amelia's Great Trans-European Art Adventure of 2011 and has been sent to West End Gallery for the next show (opening May 6).

ETH-2238 "Embark Through Italy" (8x10") oil (2011)

"Geez... there he goes again...

2011-04-20T06:25:00.001-10:00

...painting those goofy face pictures...."

n.a. (6x8") oil (2011)

Relying on cliches...

2011-04-17T08:13:00.000-10:00

I'm seeing a backlog of images that haven't made it onto this blog yet. The reason: sometimes I don't feel like I have anything to write about, or a related story. But then, if a picture is worth..., I don't need no stinkin' story!

ETH-2222 "Mess Kit" (6x8") oil (2011)

And now back to me...

2011-04-14T08:13:00.000-10:00

A very recent piece I'm likin'... Just used blue (cerulean and ultramarine), aliz. crimson & yellow ochre, with white, to capture the late day sky. I think it works...

ETH-2249 "Evening Palms" (9x12") oil on canvas (2011)

Surfaces

2011-04-09T06:26:00.000-10:00

One of the interesting aspects of figure studies is exploring different moods through lighting. But I also like to render the different aspects of the surface of the skin. In this case, wet skin. There can be an interesting variety of tones and sheen to try to capture.

ETH-2207 "Soaking Wet" (8x10") oil (2011)

Fun with faces (sort of)...

2011-04-05T10:36:00.001-10:00

Another foray into "playing with portraits." This one is based on an over-exposed flash picture. This is what it looks like so far...

ETH-x "Ghost at the Mixer 1991" (6x8") oil on panel (2011)

This one took a while...

2011-04-03T06:31:00.000-10:00

Mostly because it was just a challenge. At an art show late last year, there were a couple pieces painted in black and white. This is something I've been doing for a gazillion years. The pieces in the show, including a floral, weren't that competent. Just sayin'... A friend said that I could do better. Since I had then recently come across a black and white floral photo, I accepted the challenge, of sorts. This one took a while because I had other more pressing pieces take priority, but I think it turned out well.

ETH-2242 "[currently untitled]" (8x10") oil on panel (2011)

Of course I still paint figures...

2011-03-31T06:25:00.001-10:00

See...

ETH_2237 "Study: reach" (7x9") oil on canvas (2011)

No more stripes! (for a while...)

2011-03-27T06:13:00.000-10:00

This is based on a self-portrait photo Amelia took during her Winter 2011 Trans-Europe excursion. This time, I have a couple of in progress shots and then the final version. The main difference between the second and third states is some subtle tweaking and glazing, especially to highlight colors on the face.

ETH-2239 "Probably Nijmegen" (8x10") oil on canvas (2011)

More faces...

2011-03-20T18:16:00.001-10:00

A series, for me, is more than one "related" painting. I've started several series through the years; they seemed like good ideas at the time. And three or four paintings/pictures later, I'm off on something else (usually completely different). So currently, it's a series of 6x8" portraits in which I'm trying something along the lines of some artwork I discovered online not too long ago (unfortunately, I don't know the name of the artist). The first one was posted Feb 23, 2011; the second one hasn't been photographed yet; this is the third one... in progress.

ETH-xxxx "currently untitled) (6x8") oil on panel (2011)

The inspiration...

Can't think of a title this time...

2011-03-19T06:12:00.000-10:00

at least, not a title that wasn't a silly pun. Anyway, I did a pet portrait commission last Christmas time. It went very well, and I considered doing more. But really didn't have a lot of samples... so I painted this. Still mulling over the pet portrait idea though....

ETH-2229 [Horsehead] (11x14") oil on canvas (2011)

Making up for lost time...

2011-03-09T21:15:00.000-10:00

I get a little irritable when there are long gaps in blogs I follow -- so what's MY excuse??

Well, I've been busy with artwork and some practice video editing. To make up for some lost time, I'll post two pieces this time: a nude sketch and a surfer piece that I just finished.

ETH-2231 "Sketch: bent leg" (8x10") ballpoint pen (2011)

ETH-2236 "Surfer #8" (8x10") oil on panel (2011)

New directions in portraits

2011-02-27T06:34:00.000-10:00

So, when I'm taking a break from painting "waves," I like to have fun and experiment with different kinds of portraits. Like one long "people watching" session. This one resulted from a glitch while Skyping. Quick! hit the "take a snapshot" button. It reminds me of a VERY short lived phase I went through MANY years ago when I thought it would be cool to make paintings based on scrambled cable channels. Yea, me and about 14-thousand other artists!...

"Adriana in progress" (9x12") oil on panel (2011)

So, what have I been up to?

2011-02-23T06:43:00.000-10:00

Experimenting with some portraits this week. And taking a short break from color. I've even been thinking that there could be a series here...

ETH-2230 [currently untitled] (6x8") oil on panel (2011)

Ripped

2011-02-16T20:45:00.000-10:00

ETH-2219 "Ripped" (8x10") oil (2011)

Mercury Retrograde

2011-02-09T19:39:00.000-10:00

Here's an older piece, featuring two of my favorite models...

ETH-1380 "Mercury Retrograde" (9 1/2 x 12") ballpoint on Rives BFK paper (2007)

Edd(ie) didn't go...

2011-02-09T06:29:00.000-10:00

A couple of weeks ago, Roland and some family members planned a "circle island" [trip]. It just happened to coincide with a day of huge, impressive waves: large enough for organizers of "the Eddie" to almost hold the elusive contest (Google it).

Roland's group encountered no serious traffic problems (surprisingly), and he managed to take quite a few interesting pictures. I've done two smaller pieces, and this one as a result.

And someday, I will get my butt up there and witness, firsthand, those waves...
ETH-2221 "Waimea, Oahu" (12 x 16") oil (2011)

Little Gems

2011-02-03T06:42:00.001-10:00

A collection of miniature paintings -- West End Gallery -- February 4 - March 11, 2011 -- Opening Reception Friday February 4, 5:00 - 7:30 p.m.

ETH-2204 "Pasture" (6x6") oil on linen (2010)

"I want to go back la la la lala..."

2011-01-28T06:40:00.000-10:00

I've updated my website with a few more images, and this is among them.

This is a composite of two images: the grass shack amid the palms, and the old style outrigger canoe. I originally thought of just painting the grass shack image, but Roland suggested adding the beached canoe. And I think it gives it a nice overall vintage feel as a result.

ETH-2214 "Coconut Island" (9 1/2 x 19") oil on canvas (2011)

Catching up, part 3

2011-01-24T06:15:00.000-10:00

This is a drawing from last summer (told you we needed to do some catching up). It is my homage to Michael Leonard.

ETH-1844 "Sketch: drying off" (8x10") ballpoint pen (2010)

Revisited, Part 2

2011-01-19T18:43:00.000-10:00

Back in August, 2010, I posted two sets of images: "In Balance" and "Horses and Egrets." In each case, I had painted a small, looser study, and then went back later to make a more comprehensive, larger version. And that's what happened with today's image.

It's a view of the Waikiki Yacht Club at the Ala Wai Harbor. The picture was taken during the same excursion which yielded many other paintings, such as "Beach Park." The first study was very quick and loose; the second larger piece involved a much more detailed drawing and careful brushwork.

ETH-2205 "Study: Marina Morning" (4 1/2 x 7) oil on panel (2010) West End Gallery, "Little Gems" show

ETH-2210 "Marina Morning" (11 x 14) oil on canvas (2011)

Literally...

2011-01-17T06:23:00.000-10:00

Roland always talks about how paintings feel like windows to him -- windows to different views. I took him literally on this one... and painted a window. This is based on a photo taken while visiting the Kramers in Germany, September 2010.

ETH-2215 (currently untitled) (9x12") oil on panel (2011)

The next show...

2011-01-16T06:28:00.000-10:00

I have just one more little painting here, ready to get in the mail for West End Gallery's "Little Gems" show (Feb 4 - March 11). I did this the other morning, based on a photo Amelia took from the train in Germany. The blues and wood tones are set off nicely with a gold frame. As the title indicates, there is another version ("Frozen Field II") done the same day, and slightly larger.

ETH-2216 "Frozen Field I" (5x5") oil on panel (2011)

Behind the scenes...

2011-01-14T18:31:00.000-10:00

As we continue to catch up...
Normally, the artwork I post here is considered a finished, deliberate drawing or painting. But now is the exception. This sketch is an experiment with a sepia ink pen I picked up at the art supply store. I have always admired those talented at cross hatching in India ink. My experiences with a pencil or ballpoint pen are NOT sufficient to properly tackle the technique. So, I practice from time to time.

ETH-2144 "sketch: sepia torso" (c.7x10") ink (2010)

Sometimes, size matters...

2011-01-11T06:50:00.000-10:00

When Roland starts yellin' at me to stop (as in, before I fuck it up!), I pretty much know a painting is done. In this case, I've been working on this one for months (off and on). One reason is the sheer size: almost 2 & 1/2 x 5 feet. This is one of the biggest canvases I've ever done--definitely in Hawaii. (I think it would work perfectly in the foyer of some hotel; hint, hint).

The canvas was given to me, since you know I usually work on a much smaller scale. But I also had in mind doing an elongated painting of two photographs I took at Makapu'u Beach. The pictures were taken early one morning during one of my special solitary trips out there; that's where I sometimes go when I need a little mental vacation [it's just far enough for me, by bus!, to be the kind of trip you have to plan for].

The waves are usually a little more dramatic here, so this must have been around summertime. Also, there were only two people on the beach, but I was going for that tranquil solitary feel that I find so spiritually rejuvenating...

ETH-2213 (presently untitled) (29x60") oil on canvas (2011)

Catching up, part 2

2011-01-08T12:18:00.000-10:00

Better late than never? I see this little study was painted at the end of '09!

ETH-1775 "Outside Hanauma" (6x8") oil on panel (2009)

Catching up...

2011-01-06T21:27:00.000-10:00

I see I have a backlog of images to share. Perhaps a suitable New Year's Resolution would have been something like "post on my blog more often!" Alright, let's get started...

ETH-1787 "Study" tanned torso" (8x10) oil on linen (2010)

All is Bright (red)...

2010-12-25T05:48:00.000-10:00

I thought the colours in this were about as close to "Christmas-y" as I have at the moment. It also gives me a chance to remind you of the "Little Gems" show at West End Gallery coming in February 2011. This little painting is based on another snapshot at the Kramers in Germany last September.

ETH-2202 "Blumen von Janni" (5x7") oil (2010)

By the way...

2010-12-17T20:57:00.000-10:00

One of the pieces in the show [I mentioned in the last post] took 2nd Place.

More exposure...

2010-12-14T06:45:00.001-10:00

I have two pieces in the Oahu Art Center exhibit at Pauahi Tower downtown through the first week of September. Neither is a nude. So I'll post a recent sketch here...

ETH-1856 "Sketch: straddle" (8x10") ballpoint pen (2010)

Recent developments...

2010-12-06T06:06:00.000-10:00

I continue to "tweak" and update my website; the newest development is a page of work [archive], generally older, that have already been snapped up by collectors. I guess you could consider it "Edd's Little Museum."

Meantime, I'm working on pieces that could end up in the "Little Gems" show at West End Gallery February 2011. This is a favorite group show for me since I generally paint smaller pieces anyway. I think this show has also had a hand in influencing my recent "still life phase." But here's a recent sweet little portrait based on an old photo I found.

ETH-2148 "Dressing Gown" (5x7") oil on canvas (2010)

Found these models in the kitchen...

2010-12-03T06:28:00.000-10:00

I guess I'm going through a "still life" phase.

(Bear with me....)

ETH-2147 "Apple Bananas" (8x10") oil (2010)

Made in Occupied Japan

2010-11-28T05:57:00.000-10:00

My recent spate of German paintings are currently part of the Holiday exhibit at West End Gallery. But right now I'm working toward the next show: the annual "Little Gems," which features small works of art. So currently in various stages of completion: there is another scene from Marburg, two old style portraits (one of which finally uses a god-awful frame I ordered from online), the Centerway Clocktower, and a couple of still life pieces.

I normally don't do much still life work, but I'm surrounded by Roland's miscellaneous treasures from teacups to the samovar. So I was bound to be inspired by them at some point. Today's piece features a "plantation lunchpail." This is a little piece he picked up at one of his antique show visits, made after World War II in Japan, and used in Hawai'i to carry lunches out into the fields. The top part fits into the bottom half, like a steamer, only there are no holes: just two compartments, I guess to keep the rice separate until needed.

The style is a little more traditional, or academic, than usual. But I always feel the image dictates how it best should be depicted, and that's what I was getting this time.

ETH-2201 "Made in Occupied Japan" (6x8") oil on canvas (2010)

Catching up...

2010-11-26T06:24:00.000-10:00

No excuses: I have a few drawings and small studies ready to post, but sometimes I think my greatest talent is procrastination! (Or I make too many plans/notes; either way, there's a little pile of things to do stacked under my monitor...)

ETH-2143 "sketch: leaner" (8x10") ballpoint drawing (2010)

The Painting Process

2010-11-12T21:38:00.000-10:00

This is another little painting based on my recent visit to Germany, and is scheduled to be shown during the "Annual Holiday Exhibit" at West End Gallery opening November 19. This photo (as often happens) does not do the piece justice -- the orange ground gives it make intensity in person. I liked how it evokes an old traditional painting feel.

ETH-2142 "Breakfast" (5x7") oil (2010)

That leads me to wonder how other painters feel about this: I think that I am pretty good at drawing, but that painting is sometimes "hit or miss." While we hear of celebrity or "Sunday" painters who connote an easy, relaxing process, there are times when it is hard to know when to stop, to prevent overworking a painting and loosing the freshness. This one stayed "crisp" because I kept it quick and loose.

Or I could be just overthinking it!