Monday, April 4, 2011

Warming Up

The days are getting longer, and we've had some warm and dry stretches in the past few weeks. I'm finally coming out of my hibernating shell to work again outdoors. Here's a few recent studies done on a weekend, or on the way to work in the morning.
These types of subjects are a familiar set of patterns and problems to resolve, but can be as humbling as a first bike ride after laying off for many months, when one is a bit slow and rusty.


It's a challenge to try and break these kinds of views down, as I don't know how to simplify enough yet, and get beguiled into painting the details... that clover and weed combo, that oak leaf and branch thang, ooh, the dappled light, etc...
Consequently, its somewhat overworked, and/or too busy, but I got enough things right to give me ideas about how to tackle this type of subject more effectively next time...



"Broccoli" in the a.m. The hills in shadow at this time of the year can be a minty green, as the sky color mixes with the grass. There is more than a hint of lavender in some of the shrubs, and the eucalyptus always feel 'red' to me in comparison.


Painted from a bank parking lot in downtown Orinda that has a very nice view of the east side of the Berkeley hills. Great views can be found in unexpected places.
---------------------------------

Workshop Update:

In other news, both my summer workshops are filled, and there is a waiting list, so my thanks to everyone who signed up! I'm looking forward to teaching them.

-----------------------------------

Art Auction for Japan

In response to the earthquake and tsunami that has devastated parts of Japan, a Pixar colleague and friend, Dice Tsutsumi, has already helped put together an art auction, and is setting up a second one at the end of April that Pixar artists can contribute to. Please read his blog for more details, as well as the opportunity to contribute to some worthy non-profit charities to help.

10 comments:

ernesto said...

Love the color on the bottom two. I have always struggled with capturing that early morning light. Love you work.

Luis María Benítez said...

Really good light and color. Regards.

Elyse said...

I love the simplicity of the forms in the bottom two. You are edging towards abstraction Mr. Cone. I also love the velvety texture of the grasses on the hills.

Isaac Orloff Illustration said...

Beautiful studies bill, nice work!

Bill Cone said...

@ernesto, Luis, and Isaac: Thanks for your kind remarks.

@Elyse: I'm looking at luminous relationships of values and hues, but my pattern based thinking is more or less abstract, as the patterns are often not tied directly to a single object. Heading towards abstraction? It's fun to go in that direction with realism in tow.

@Lisa: Well then I can expect to see some paintings from you soon, eh? ;-)

Katherine McGuire said...

Beautiful pastels with abstract qualities!

KURT said...

really great art

Madeline K. Rupard said...

These are so lovely because of their control and simplicity--it says so much.

Theresa Evans said...

I have just found your blog ... what beautiful light filled paintings! I'll definitely be back to follow your work :)

Timtak said...

Dear Mr. Cone
You would not have an Japanese connection yourself would you? There is a rare Japanese surname "Kone."