What are your favorite subjects?
I enjoy painting landscapes, old ruins and botanicals. Edeficios of any period, any place. They all have a common allure. I want to another place. To transport you to something you may not have seen or noticed before. Even my botanicals illustrate nature that we sometimes take for granted. A pause. A moment to reflect... to see. I want to illustrate the architecture of man, and the architecture of nature.
Where do you paint your landscapes?
Pretty much everywhere. I love European light. The blue Mediterranean. Antiquity everywhere.
Art and architecture were inseparable. But most of the time I spend plein aire painting with my fellow artists, here in the Southwest. The clarity of day, and the wonderful diffusion of our sunsets. Very atmospheric, and the sort of thing that motivates an artist.
What medium do you work in?
For over 40 years, I’ve worked in several different mediums. But for the last 10 years, I’ve worked exclusively in pastels. I use them for their vast color palette, and because of their blending characteristics. They can be both soft, and powerful.
What is pastel?
Simply put, they are pure pigments. Although many mistake them for chalk or powder.
Are Pastels archival?
The pastels I use are fully archival. I once did a demonstration at the Albuquerque Museum of Art, where I was sketching a still life using vine charcoal. From one observer came a question: “Is that archival?” I directed her to view two papyrus scrolls in vine charcoal that were part of an Egyptian exhibit down the hall. They were over 2000 years old.
Do you have a favorite brand of Pastels?
I use Sennelier pastels, and La Carte paper. In 1900, Gustave Sennelier, a chemist, created over 525 brilliant shades. They were Degas favorite. The colors are very rich, and when applied to La Carte paper, they become luminous. Perfect for botanicals. The paper is made with vegetable oil, and is highly textured. The pastels have no clay or fillers, so the true nature of each pigment comes through. Like a good “Havana”, they are still hand rolled.
How long does it take to complete a painting?
On average, usually five or six days. Obviously a large scale painting (30x22”) will take longer than a 9x12” painting. I use multiple layers to create the perfect shade of color, and that takes time. Sometimes I’ll alter a composition to achieve a desired effect, which means even more time. Or as Blumenchein experienced: “revisiting a painting two or tree times, until you are satisfied.” I’ll put it aside, and work on another painting part of the time, all the while transforming the original... until I’m satisfied.
What is a Giclee Print?
Giclee: French, meaning to spray.
The term Giclee (pronounced zhee-clay) was originally coined as an alternative term for digitally
produced fine art prints. The Iris print. The term was created to dispel some of the early resistance to digitally produced fine art. It is now universally adopted as a valid form of reproduction. My art is reproduced by two studios where only the finest printers, pigments and papers are used. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish the print from its original. I can also re-size a print, smaller or larger. Generally, four sizes are offered.
How does an Iris printer work?
The Iris prints images by spraying one million droplets of ink (pigment) per second through each nozzle. There are 9-12 nozzles of different colors. The drum spins at 100-150 inches per second and could take up to 60 minutes to print one 30”x20” image. The ink droplets measure 15 microns in diameter (the size of a red blood cell). The studios I employ (Orion of Santa Fe, and 10,000 Cranes of Albuquerque) guarantee that the prints have the highest resolution, greatest color gamut, and longest life. This is extremely high quality Fine Art reproduction.
Are Giclees archival?
Yes. Digital fine art printing has evolved significantly over the past fifteen years, as early ink sets were of inferior quality compared to those available today. Current pigmented sets for new generation Micro-Piezo style printers have been tested to last over 100 years in accelerated fade testing. Some prints tested may last well over 200 years in normal indoor lighting conditions. Coatings have also improved, lending 99% UV protection that increases print life and moisture resistance. Using AR glass in framing, adds even greater UV protection.
What size Giclee Prints are available?
Since some originals vary in size, I offer prints to fit 4 paper sizes. 11x14”, 16x20”, 20x24”, and 30x36”. Any length, width combination that falls within the printable size can be printed. These are guides and are not restricted print sizes. Substrates include Somerset Velvet enhanced Radiant White (100% cotton, acid free), and Hahnemuhle Rag (100% cotton acid free).
Other substrates are available for special order.
Are their Limited Edition Prints available?
I have some limited editions. Limited editions are designated with the letters LE. I never exceed 100 prints, but most are limited to 50. Their are currently two that are out of print in the archive pages. All proofs are signed and titled. All Limited Editions are signed, titled and numbered.
Can I purchase Artists Proofs?
Occasionally. Sometimes a first or second proof will come close to capturing the essence of my work, with subtle, pleasing variations. These proofs are available and discounted accordingly. Artist Proofs are designated with the letters AP.
How is your work framed?
Originals: My originals are framed in plein aire, or deep frame molding. Some are gilded, depending on the work. I use wood or plaster clad. No metal or standard thickness frames are used. The mats are usually 3 inch margins. 1/8” and 1/4” spacers keep the work away from the glass. I use AR glass which filters 98% UV light. All backing, mats, and mounts are acid free. They are ready to hang. Remember to keep them away from direct sunlight.
Giclee Prints: Generally, I ship only the prints. Custom framing is available on request.
Do you do commissioned work?
Yes. Subjects can range from figurative and portraits, to pets, to your new home. For some subjects, only photo references are needed, while others may require a “sitting” or travel. Rates include consultation, and scheduling is required. Prices start at $1500.
How do you price your Original work?
Prices are available on request. Although this site is updated regularly, some work depicted may not be available, or may be committed to exhibition. You can E-mail me with your inquiry to include title & size.
How do you price your Giclees?
11x14” $ 125.00
16x20” $ 195.00
20x24” $ 275.00
30x36” $ 475.00
Simply click on the thumbnail image in the gallery of your choice and order through PAYPAL
These prices reflect US Dollars and include shipping and handling. Add NM Tax where applicable. |
