Amy Evans Art Painting Adventures

Art Heals

2009-06-24T21:15:00.003-06:00

Have you noticed the art on the walls of waiting rooms? Often they are posters or giclees...just wall decor. Nothing special. Once in a while you will find original art. What a difference that art makes you feel...it is more interesting , and sometimes it actually makes you feel good. It can alter one's attitude before a meeting. It can add much more to a space than matching the decor. Priceless.

Balance

2009-06-06T09:29:00.003-06:00

Painting from my deck...6:45 am Wed. The mts were there for the painting...then clouds rolled in.

I have been participating in the 20 hrs a week painting challenge. I have made and exceeded my goals for the past 2 weeks.
This week will be different...life stuff..such as my son's wedding here.

Women artists especially have to deal with "life stuff", such as home maintenance, children, etc. In my case I also handle my husband's business in addition to our personal bills. I also do all the business end of my art. I no longer have children at home, but when I did I also had their needs to deal with.

It is a balancing act...some weeks more art is created, some weeks there is life interruptions. I try to keep myself organized and stick to a schedule, but there are times when that is not working too.

The important thing I have learned from this so far is that 2o hrs of painting a week is usually doable. When other things take precedent then I don't stress out about not getting in my painting. I just get back to my routine asap. Painting 24/7 would not be healthy...doing other things keeps me in touch with life, which adds to my painting.

Bring A Painting to Work

2009-05-26T11:19:00.004-06:00

"Swan Song", 10"x10", oil. Amy Evans

I have been thinking about the term "cube grenade" that was mentioned a week ago by the artist Hugh MacLeoud. Clint Watson also discussed this. What is a cube grenade? It is something that enters one's cubicle at work and can change one's life. A painting can do that. How? It can bring memories to the viewer. It can motivate the viewer. It can bring a mood. I have a friend whose husband would have her paintings in his office. People would stop in just to look at them. Some were even sold through his office. The paintings brought joy to an otherwise boring atmosphere.
Have you thought about how your work environment can influence your attitude? Feng Shui works with this as well as some decorators who know the vibes colors can have...Imagine how powerful an original work of art can really be...maybe you should try a cube grenade and see...bring in an original painting to work and see what effect it can have on you as well as your workers.

Create while Traveling

2009-05-13T13:24:00.003-06:00

I am offering some painting workshops here in Breckenridge, CO this summer through the Arts District. I think that it is so much fun to paint a painting while I am traveling. It helps you remember the place in such a special way. I want to help others experience the fun! You can check out my website for more information.
My goal is for my students to come away with a great painting experience as well as a painting to help them remember their day in Breckenridge.

" Sedona Afternoon", oil, 6"x8", Amy Evans

Art...a manly thing

2009-05-07T09:02:00.003-06:00

10"x8" oil, Amy Evans

I am a member of WAOW and now KAWA, womens' art organizations. Recently there has been discussion about art created by women and the apparent continuation of gender bias in the art community. Many women artists try not to give any gender indication, so that the art will stand by itself. I have encountered such prejudice. It is still a part of many galleries. Men artists and their work are often taken more seriously by some because they have to make a living, so therefore they are percieved as being more dedicated. Very sad and provincial thinking. Guess what...many of them are able to create because of a spouse or significant other providing income, marketing, etc. If a woman is in the same position somehow it is different in some folk's eyes. Men artists sometimes also have the same bias.This bias crosses political bents too...from conservatives to liberals. Shouldn't the art stand alone?

My husband is very supportive of my art and thankfully I don't have to rely on my art income for our sole means of support. I have encountered the attitude that because of that fact I am not a serious artist and I shouldn't be out there in galleries, etc. Wrong assumption. Art is a part of my spirit and being able to create without the stress is very liberating...art is my passion and I work hard at it. My income now resembles a part-time salary. Not too bad.

So for all those machos out there...get over it!

Painting Outdoors Can Be A Vacation

2009-04-24T16:48:00.004-06:00

Nothing like a spring day in the mountains of Colorado. This is a portion of the Swan River, not 5 minutes from my home. I discovered this spot this morning while looking for the willows that are turning. It was a little blustery, but this place was fairly protected. I loved the light hitting the willows and the snow. I did a 10"x10" painting and was happy about it in general. What could be better than painting along a rushing little river, hearing the chickadees, and watching the light show!
I reflected on how wonderful it is to paint outdoors in nature. While painting you lose yourself in order to concentrate on what you are seeing...often called being in the zone..you let your eyes tell you what you are seeing, not your head. It is a relaxing time. All your senses take in your surroundings. Here I felt the breeze, heard the sounds of the river, the birds, the wind, and smelled the scent of pines mixed with damp earth. No matter what the painting outcome, when one paints outdoors it becomes a special experience if the right attitude is maintained...to enjoy the moment. A vacation from the worries of life...

What is Important, the Art or the Artist?

2009-04-14T10:17:00.003-06:00

After thinking about my Amy Evans' Mississippi identity issues, it occurred to me that I need to think about what is the most important part of this? My paintings or me ( the artist). I feel that they are intertwined. I first react to a painting. It speaks to me visually and then stirs up an emotion. Then I want to find out about the artist. I often will look at their website, or search out galleries that represent them. The icing on the cake is to get to meet them in person. I do find that if after meeting them I dislike them for various reasons such as arrogance, then I look at their work differently. I am not alone in this reaction. How people perceive us is as important as their connection to our artwork. That is also an art form.

Identity Issues

2009-04-13T17:30:00.003-06:00

"Winter", Mesa Verde, oil. 5"x7". Amy Evans

I returned from my trip to LA and MS...had a real trip down memory lane. Went to my high school reunion in Shreveport and saw old friends that I had completely forgotten about. I am getting old. Many still called me by my "Margaret" name...which is my legal name...I completely lost it when I went to college. My husband got a real kick out of that, since he has never called me by that name.The history of my name change began because I was very scared of my first grade teacher and so didn't let her know that I was called Amy. That began my double life so to speak. School friends called me Margaret; church and family called me Amy...and still do. Then on to MS to visit more family and friends. There I visited a gallery that had an exhibit of paintings by Amy Evans...another Amy Evans who lives in MS. I was happy to see that our work is very different and tried to clear up the confusion...many thought that that was my exhibit. I also found out that there is still another Amy Evans in MS...a graphic designer...and to really add to the confusion...they are both from Houston, TX...odd enough I was also born there. Isn't Life interesting?

Goin' Home

2009-03-26T14:08:00.000-06:00

I am traveling back home to Shreveport, LA next week to visit family and to my first high school reunion...ever. This coincides with the opening weekend of the Nomadas show in Dallas, TX, where I have 2 paintings on exhibit. It seems that I often have these conflicts and most often I choose my art career. This time more issues entered into my decision to go home. I am looking forward to seeing friends that I haven't seen in 30+ years as well as helping my father make some health decisions. Who knows...this could be fun...and I might even get some material for paintings from this area. I will be looking at it through more mature eyes. I left home after high school never looking back...went to college in Memphis, TN, which many thought was far North...and the rest is history. I have been home to see parents and relatives from time to time, but never caught up with my old high school friends. Many left as I did...and those are the ones I will be seeing this visit. A walk down memory lane...

Above: "Sedona Spring", 8"x10", oil. Amy Evans

Get Out!

2009-03-16T12:16:00.002-06:00

"Ireland Garden", 11"x14", oil. Amy Evans

I recently went to the 2nd Sat art walk that Breckenridge, my hometown, is beginning. I enjoyed the art exhibits as well as visiting the new resident artist at the Tin Shop, in our new Arts District. There was so much positive energy in all the galleries and studios. A welcome change from the news we get on TV, internet. Art is a positive thing in our lives...we can't let it die. Get out and go to some openings, enjoy the art, meet artists, and support them...many galleries offer lay-a-ways. Come home with something special..whether it is a piece of art, or the experience itself. You will feel better.

Why Bother

2009-03-16T12:08:00.000-06:00

I attended the 2nd Sat Art Walk this weekend. It was fun to catch up with other area artists, visit galleries, and especially our growing Arts District. You would wonder why this is going on in the midst of the slow economy. The fact is we need art in our lives...it can heal...it can invigorate..it can soothe...there was a lot of good energy in the galleries. I urge everyone to get out there...take in some positive energy. Now is the time to do that and support your artists.

"Leafing out in Westerfield", 9"x12", oil.

Crazy Times

2009-02-20T17:11:00.003-07:00

Update on my Morning Pages...they have been so centering for me... I am doing them on a fairly regular basis. The book "Finding Water" is talking to me...the topic that I read each day seems to also be something that I have been thinking about. Very interesting...God seems to be talking to me through this book. That thought also leapt out of the pages of another book I have been reading. WOoo-woo moments. Doing art and these exercises are adding a lot to my life...and my art. I am growing. In these crazy times I am finding solace in them.

Sifting throuh Stuff

2009-02-11T17:13:00.003-07:00

I have been focusing on staying focused...am finding that I am becoming more calm when I don't feel so scattered. This is tough for a Gemini to do I think..today I painted in the studio and then completed a few other tasks...one at a time..I am working on improving my paintings and am (you'll love this) working on my focal point. I didn't even associate this with my goals. Synergy at work...

Right: "Colorado Trail: Kenosha", 24"x18", oil. c.Amy Evans

WAOWing the Mountain State

2009-02-08T17:18:00.004-07:00

"Taking A Stand", sold...WAOWing the Mountain State Show, Saks Galleries, Denver , CO

I have been away from my blog for a while because I am Chair of the WAOW Show at Saks Galleries in Denver, CO. Doing something like this teaches you to appreciate the work that goes into a national art show. Lots of details, dealing with a few prima donna artists, answering questions, etc., takes a lot of energy...Fortunately I had the best show committee anyone could ask for as well as a top-notch gallery who was so helpful. I took this position because I wanted to learn more and I also wanted to "pay it forward". It was a good experience.. the show is fantastic and sales are happening...there was so much positive energy...and it was fun. So...how can you pay it forward? If everyone got into this wonder what would happen? We need more positives...think about it...

Another One Goes

2009-01-29T17:06:00.002-07:00

I was sad to find out that Iris Gallery in Littleton, CO, a suburb of Denver is closing its doors in Feb. It was a beautiful space and had a wide variety of art and fine craft in all price ranges. The economy is tough, and my family has been affected by it. While in Denver I did see eating out and shopping going on ...and the coffee shops seem to be still thriving. I am wondering what will happen to art galleries? Will people begin to come back to them? Will people miss having art that has a spirit and soul in their homes?
This past week the International Ice Sculpture Contest took place in my town of Breckenridge. Lots of people attended...guess they liked the idea that they didn't have to buy the pieces, and it was outdoors without any intimidation...hmmmm...

Distractions

2009-01-24T10:50:00.002-07:00

I am patting myself on the back for doing my Morning Pages on a regular basis this week. I am trying to stay focused...today however the dog hair tumbleweeds are out of control, so I am cleaning and actually feel good about the act of getting stuff put away. There is definitely more positive and calm energy that I feel when my house ( nest) is in order and not chaos. I will feel better getting to the studio. Maybe my paintings will reflect this feeling...we'll see!

Left: "One Fine Day", 14"x11"oil. Plein air.

Morning Madness

2009-01-21T22:08:00.002-07:00

I have not been as dedicated to my morning pages as I had hoped. I have trouble doing them when I travel. I did return to them this morning and am finding that they are difficult to get back into when I have not been doing them for a couple of days. Writing 3 pages is tough. I do find that they are helping me to focus. Did them this am and they do calm me and help me get through the day's chaos. It is as if they lead me to a path. I had to do a lot of life stuff today, but managed to get to the easel in spite of everything. A nice feeling...

Green Mt Reservoir Campground

Update on the Morning Page Habit

2009-01-12T09:02:00.003-07:00

I have been doing the morning pages off and on for the past few weeks and I must admit that something wonderful is going on. I am feeling better, I have goals in front of me and I am taking better care of myself. I am painting more regularly and am stretching myself again. It feels good. Synergy seems to be showing up again.
I am painting even when I only have small bits of time and I am enjoying doing small works. The painting on the left is a 5"x7" oil. It is a lot brighter than the photo suggests.

Taking Small Steps

2009-01-07T08:52:00.003-07:00

I am learning so much from my morning pages and studying my Julia Cameron book. Something leaped out at me this morning as I sipped coffee by the fire and watching the wind blowing the snow around. Small pieces of time spent painting are just as important as those long blocks of time. Small steps do add up...all journeys are made up of small steps. Yesterday I began a large painting, working from photos and plein air studies of a portion of the Colorado Trail that my husband and I hiked this late summer. I worked on it a large portion of the day. It was good to take a look at it this am. I already see things that need work. Today I have a full afternoon of appointments and thought about not stepping into the studio because I won't have a huge block of time. I will instead work on the painting in small amounts of time...it might take me longer, but I will still be painting and learning as I go along...even in baby steps!

Mondays...

2009-01-05T19:24:00.003-07:00

It is always exciting to begin the new year...I always think I am starting with a clean slate the first Monday of the new year. Each day in fact is a new beginning...a gift...I hope that I never forget that. Today I did 2 small paintings in the studio. I had hoped to paint outside, but the weather was very cold, ( -7 when I got up this am) and when it warmed up the winds kicked in. I have a problem with painting in the wind...You can't concentrate for holding on to your easel in the hopes that you won't lose it as well as your painting. I have tried it...and it isn't pretty. Such is life...you aren't really in control.

Above: Along Tiger Road, Breckenridge...I love to paint here!

Passions

2009-01-04T17:12:00.003-07:00

"Safe Harbor", oil, 18"x14", Amy Evans. Megavissey Harbor, Cornwall

"Figure out what you're passionate about. If you're not passionate about something, go find it. We do not need more unengaged boring people to inhabit this planet." (Ben Heppner)

I just read Robert Genn's article about passion and I loved the above quote.So true...there are so many out there that are just sleepwalking through life...and perhaps are afraid to dig deep and find what they are really passionate about...it might change their life.
I am passionate about my painting as well as art. It lifts my spirits. I am hoping that by going through the morning pages process I will strengthen my passion if that makes any sense. Painting, even though it is something that I am passionate about, can be very frustrating. There are times when I feel that I am not making any progress and then out of the hard work the elusive milestone occurs. These moments can be fleeting ones and they aren't something that just happens to some artists. I have seen many paintings I thought were wonderful scraped off by the artist.
Ahhhhh...passion!

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T10:47:00.005-07:00

Above: " Ring of Kerry", oil, 14"x11", © Amy Evans. Painted from my walking tour of Ireland.

I worked on my goals yesterday and I highly recommend doing that exercise! Thanks to Alyson Stanfield's web newsletter and book...I began my morning pages again and am going through Julia Cameron's "Finding Water". I feel energized and focused again. I purchased that book several years ago and read it...then put it away. I think I am now ready to work.I will keep everyone posted as to my progress. I do have difficulty when trips come up as well as visitors...and we do have lots of visitors here in the mountains of Colorado. I am excited about my goals and am in the process of breaking them down into smaller tasks. Happy New Year to all...may you have a glorious 2009, full of opportunity, joy, peace, and love!

Endings...Beginnings

2008-12-29T20:56:00.003-07:00

I can't believe that the end of 2008 is here. This year has been a whirlwind. Is everyone's like that? I am so grateful for all that has happened in my life this year...the new galleries, the wonderful painting opportunities that I have experienced, the joys of being an grandmother ( though I am much too young), the love and support of my husband and family and the opportunity to express myself through my art. I am so blessed. I am beginning to list all my 2008 accomplishments ( thanks to prodding from www.artbizcoach.com). That is an amazing exercise. Next the scary part...setting goals for 2009...scary but they seem to keep me focused. My number one goal is to work harder at my art in order to be able to express myself more visually....i.e., to get better at what I do...keep posted as to how I am going to accomplish that one. It sounds very scary to me!

Women Artists and Christmas

2008-12-20T14:15:00.002-07:00

I am doing what I always do this time of the year...cards, baking, decorating...in addition to painting and getting some work ready for a show. No wonder male artists get more done this time of the year. I think us women have to really learn to balance their art and family in order to keep going forward with their work. Add keeping up with your website, blog, e-mail newsletter, etc...it all takes time. I am scaling back on a lot of things this year...less baking, fewer cards, and am actually enjoying the season. Merry Christmas to all...

Rejection

2008-12-16T13:30:00.003-07:00

I am chairing the WAOW ( Women Artists of the West) national juried show for 2009. We just finished a gruelling jury. 133 pieces were selected from over 400 entries. It was a difficult task for our jury panel and an even more difficult one for the gallery owner. I am now discovering that many artists don't take rejection well... some of these are "professionals". Many don't read the prospectus, don't even look at what a gallery shows, and only join a group for the shows. Fortunately I am also hearing from members who understand the difficulty of selecting work from a large quantity of excellent pieces. They also understand that it is hard to find galleries that can sponsor a large show...and in these times the pieces need to be saleable.
Ahhhh....the joys and tribulations of the art world...