Witbeck Revisited – Artist Insights from David Witbeck

“This year, I revisited some earlier ideas. Iggy, the fisherman in the boat with the larger-than-life fish, and Taking Out, a similar fisherman but with an entire basket of fish, are themes I haven’t done for a few years. So I thought I’d give them another try now that I’m a better painter,” laughs Witbeck.

Exploring – Artist Insights from Ryan Kohler

“As I continue exploring what I can do with acrylics and collage, I’ve expanded my materials to include found papers, posters, maps, flyers, brochures, adverts, birthday cards, fortune cookies, and other found, saved, and collected papers,” shares artist Ryan Kohler. “You name it.”

My Studio’s a Mess – Artist Insights from Ryan Kohler

“The process and results are a bit like palette knife marks, except I have much more control, and if I don’t like the piece I’ve just added to the painting, I simply remove it,” shares Kohler. “I have a window of time before the glue permanently adheres the paper to the canvas, and even if I am beyond that window, I still have the option to continue gluing more paper to cover up any mistakes I’ve made. “

The Peacocks at Snug Harbor – Artist Insights from Claire Bigbee

The peacock is a possessor of some of the most admired human characteristics and symbolizes integrity and the beauty we can achieve when we endeavor to show our true colors. In history, myth, legend, and lore, the peacock symbolism carry portents of nobility, holiness, guidance, protection, and watchfulness. Contemplate the powers of the peacock when you need more vibrancy and vitality in your experience. The peacock can also help you on your spiritual path and breath new life into your walk of faith.

The Paint Does All the Hard Work, and the Paper Gets All the Credit – Artist Insights from Ryan Kohler

Each component added is like a revelation, revealing something that wasn’t as defined as before—the hull of a boat, a bird’s wing, the shadow’s edge.  Sometimes I walk back and forth from my easel after each piece, carefully observing how the painting changes from a distance.

Painting with Paper – Ryan Kohler’s Solo Summer Show

The result of this work is similar to palette knife oil paintings. Parallel with distinct planes of color and various shapes layered over each other.  For Kohler, the paper’s advantage is the workability, clarity of color, and the ability to work in small areas without the risk of the muddiness that can sometimes come with an oil painting.

Silvery Summer Light on the Isles of Shoals – Artist Insights from Claire Bigbee

“The community of people I met from all over the world was an unexpected surprise. I left with five paintings and a feeling of solitude, nourishment, and peace,” smiles Bigbee.  “I will go back again and again to paint the magic of Star Island and the Shoals. And, of course, watch the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets in a comfy rocking chair.”