Annabelle Hydrangea

Annabelle Hydrangea 16x23"  oil on linen

I had fun pushing the textures on this one.  More abstract shapes than usual. I love to sculpt with the paint, using thickness and texture as well as chroma and value to lead the viewer through the painting..oh yes, and don't forget those beautiful lost edges! :)

Frame Makeover

 Refinish those old frames!!

"Cheap" looking metal leaf frame

refinished warm antique black with soft handrubbed patina

As artists we all seem to accumulate those frames that we just don't know what to do with.  They may have gotten damaged shipping to a gallery or banged around transporting to a show.  Maybe they were "ok" frames but the finish just wasn't up to gallery standards or the color just won't work with the art.  

There are many ways to bring new life back to those old frames so they can come out of the closet and hang proudly on your best art!

I have been a fine art restorer for over 35 years and have learned many tricks about refurbishing damaged frames that I would like to share.  Most artists have the ability to refurbish their own frames but they lack the know-how. Being able to modify your own frames can not only save $1000's of dollars, but it can even open a whole new opportunity to the artist to individualize and modify their frames to be one of a kind pieces that will enhance their art. 

I am going to give a step-by-step for you on creating this lovely soft, handrubbed black finish, however, these same steps can be used to modify an existing finish or work with other base colors than just black.....have fun, get creative!

A friend and wonderful artist, Connie Kuhnle, has used some beautiful soft, greyed colors for her charming plein air landscapes.  One of my favorites is her antiqued mustard/yellow on a white and yellow farmhouse...it is perfect!!

I often use antiquing and waxing to add some interest to a newly purchased frame that just doesn't quite have the richness I am looking for.  It is a fairly quick and simple step that can make a remarkable difference.

Astilbe My Heart

Astilbe My Heart   18x24  oil on linen

I always choose a strong flower shape, (like a lilac or peony or iris), to put some mass in my composition that automatically tends to draw the viewer's eye.  Today's setup I did not do that.  All the flowers I chose are smaller blossoms or very light airy clusters.  Instead I used the glassware to add the more solid masses.  It is just a little different twist. 

 I used all shades of green in the glassware just for the challenge of getting variety in those subtle differences.