Day 30 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Seattle Sun

I rarely know what is going to manifest before I begin the process of creating an abstract painting.  For me it is a very intuitive unfolding that may begin with a fleeting thought, a shape, a color - pretty much whatever.  For the final day of this 30 day challenge, I can't honestly explain how or why the notion for this particular painting found its way to my studio - but it did.  

Perhaps because something about the composition reminded me of the Space Needle, the title 'Seattle Sun' emerged.  As a former Seattleite, I have an intimate knowledge of the feeling of the city.  

I have very much enjoyed this 30 Day Painting Challenge.   It was a joy each day to see what was going to make itself known.  

Thanks to all my artist friends - former and brand new - for your comments, ideas and encouragement during these 30 days.  
It has been great!!! 

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Seattle Sun
Acrylic & Mixed Media on Canvas
8" X 16"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 29 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Keep Swimming

During this 30 Day Challenge I have seemingly alternated between hot desert scenes and cooling water scenarios.  An underwater scene popped up today, using mixed media on paper.  Enjoy!

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Keep Swimming
Acrylic on Paper
8" X 10"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 28 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Spiralocity

The spiral is a common shape found in nature and an ancient symbol in many cultures. It can have several meanings such as growth and evolution or it can represent a person coming back to the same point in one's life, but with new and enhanced understandings.  The symbol of the spiral can encourage a viewer to become more flexible and have trust when things change.

Enjoy the journey.  

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Spiralocity
Acrylic on Paper
8" X 10"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 27 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Harlequin Haven

This painting might also be titled Harlequin #5, as it is a recent addition to the opening Harlequin Series from Days 1 - 4 of this September Challenge.  It is unfortunate that the camera cannot sufficiently capture the shiny metallic painted areas which present contrasts of bright, yet muted softness in the painting as experienced when viewing it in person. 

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Harlequin Haven
Mixed Media on Canvas
11" X 14"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 26 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Stonehenge of the Southwest

One of the most unique and awesome features about Phoenix is the downtown Burton Barr Public Library.  In 1995, architect Will Bruder built an amazing structure to house the educational written word (among other things)  for the community.  

On the Summer Solstice - through deliberate, perfect geometry and intricate architecture - the expansive top floor Great Reading Room is miraculously transformed into a truly awesome experience.   Precisely at Solar Noon on the Solstice, the Great Reading Room's walls, glacial blue skylights and soaring pillars morph into a huge sundial and become illuminated from the sunlight directly above causing an outrageous ethereal light show.  The tips of the 28 pillars suddenly resemble freshly lit candles and the stone side walls begin to glow.  The visual effect lasts only a short time, but is enough to take your breath away.

To actually witness a celestial event because of the very intentional, pre-meditated design of a huge public-use building is phenomenal.  Sometimes referred to as the "Stonehenge of the Southwest", the Central Phoenix Library is something to be acknowledged and lauded.  Very cool...

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Stonehenge of the Southwest
Mixed Media on Canvas
8" X 10"

Day 25 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Mogollon Rim

Today my focus was on rugged texture.  The painting manifested as a depiction of the Arizona Mogollon Rim, a topological and geographical feature, which rises almost 5,000 feet from the desert floor of Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun. When driving the winding road up, up and further up - you finally, and somewhat surprisingly, break out into the wide expanse of the Rim top which welcomes you to the high country.  It is a beautiful experience. 

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Mogollon Rim
Acrylic on Canvas
11" X 14"

Day 24 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Polka Dots, Checks and Balances

I had great fun working on this piece today.  Anyone who is familiar with my work knows I am not shy when it comes to color.  This particular painting represents my favorite palette. I love the warm colors - throw in some dioxozine purple and top it off with phthalo turquoise and/or cobalt teal and I'm ecstatic.

Enjoy!

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Polka Dots, Checks and Balances
Mixed Media on Panel
10" X 12"

Day 23 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Rejoice in the Small Stuff

This is a piece that 'painted itself'.  By that I mean I had no idea what it wanted to be when I began with a blank panel - and it evolved quickly and as if I knew exactly what I was doing. :o)  I appreciated it very much after a few days of semi-consternation.  It was just great fun!

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Rejoice in the Small Stuff
Mixed Media on Panel
8" X 8" 

 For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 22 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Just Rolling Along

Today's painting provides a mixed media, textured combination mono-print/acrylic painting, complete with foiled clay piece.  It was a fun piece to watch evolve.

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Just Rolling Along
Mixed Media on Panel
8" X 8"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 21 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Canyon Lands

Today presents a textured, mixed media piece that depicts the canyon lands of Arizona. You can see by the size and intensity of the sun that it has been a long, hot summer. :o) 

There are some shiny sections which are not apparent in the photo, but very visible in person.

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Canyon Lands
Mixed Media on Panel
8" X 10"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 20 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Shell Trilogy

More mixed media using molding paste, mono-print on paper, collage and other design elements.  Also more pesky shells... As you may remember from Day 6, to me the shells symbolize being on the correct path and the fact that there are many ways to reach a goal.  It's a worthy theme for me at this time.

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Shell Trilogy
Mixed Media on Canvas
11" X 14"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 19 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Shape Shifter

Working on this painting was an interesting journey.  It seemed to keep changing with each minute - hence its name.  This is where it seems to want to remain - at least until it doesn't...

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Shape Shifter
Mixed Media on Canvas
11" X 14"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 18 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Spirit of Autumn

I enjoyed the evolution of this painting.  From humble beginnings it slowly grew into a highly textured and colorful expression of what I envision the Spirit of Autumn may embody.

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Spirit of Autumn
8" X 10"
Mixed Media on panel

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 17 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Purple Print Four Ways

The mono-print below appears to be one of those that has can be viewed rather successfully from any side - vertical, horizontal, up or down.  

Which do you prefer? #1, #2, #3 or #4?

Let me know.

Also - did anyone notice any shells in the mono-print? (Refer back to Days 6 & 7 for the significance of the shell in my work.) 

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Print Vertical #1
8" X 10"
Acrylic Mono-Print on paper

Print Vertical #2
8" X 10"
Acrylic Mono-Print on paper

Print Horizontal #3
8" X 10"
Acrylic Mono-Print on paper

Print Horizontal #4
8" X 10"
Acrylic Mono-Print on paper

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 16 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Out of the Blue

The 6" X 24" canvas shape was intriguing to work with.  I enjoyed making use of some interesting mixed media components. The piece demanded that I listen to how it wanted to evolve - so I did.  I'm guessing that your canvases talk to you as well, right?  :o)

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Out of the Blue
Mixed Media on Canvas
6" X 24"

Day 15 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Desert Dance

In my opinion, everything about this piece reflects my view of what it's like to live in the desert - from colors to shapes - but mostly the feel.  To me this piece calmly yells (yes, that can be done): heat, amazing sunsets, texture, rocks, turquoise, intensity, did I mention heat? In the midst of all of that, you either love it or not.  It really is about the Phoenix rising from the ashes.  If you want to experience personal transformation and growth - move to Phoenix. It's always in your face and not for the feint of heart...just saying...  :o)

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Desert Dance
8" X 8" panel
Mixed Media

Day 14 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Breakthrough

I had the distinct pleasure and privilege of taking two workshops with Carol Nelson in early August during Art Unraveled in Phoenix.  It was everything you want workshops to be - well organized, fun, instructive, well paced and full of ideas and new techniques.  They were both utterly delightful.  If you ever get a chance to take one of Carol's workshops/classes - do it!

Below is one of the mixed-media pieces that I began in class and finished later at home.  I loved working with the unusual 3" X 12" panel shape, plus all the other fun elements.  I enjoyed working on this piece very much.

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Breakthrough
Acrylic Mixed Media on panel
3" X 12"

I know many people are already familiar with Carol's beautiful work - but if not visit her website:   http://carolnelsonfineart.com/  

Enjoy!

Day 13 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Oceans of Gold

In keeping with my apparent theme of water paintings with shiny things in them - here's another.  I like the theme.  This painting was loosely inspired by the recent headlines of an Orlando family discovering some fifty, 300 year old gold coins in only fifteen feet of water off the Florida coast. However, my favorite part of this story is the fact that the family named its  treasure hunting vessel "AARRR BOOTY".

I'm now thinking that the proper name for this highly textured, gold, bronze and blue painting should be:  Oceans of Gold: Aaarr Booty. 

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Acrylic Mixed-Media on Canvas
12" X 12"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 12 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Underwater Outcrop

The underwater theme continues today with what may be a whimsical underwater outcrop along the ocean floor?  Or a frolicking sea tortoise?  Or Sedona Red Rocks underwater?  

Enjoy the refreshing water and whatever it is that you may see...

Keep your swimsuit out - more water tomorrow!

Acrylic Mixed Media5" X 7" Ampersand Panel

Day 11 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Wishing Upon a Stream

Today's mixed-media painting illustrates the flow of a cool, clear stream.  The clarity of the water shows shiny treasures to be found in the stream bed. It gives the feeling that the stream is like a wishing well - acknowledging the bright flashes of positive feelings of those who wished upon the stream. 

Click on the painting to see the details.

Wishing Upon a Stream
Acrylic Mixed Media
5" X 7" Ampersand Panel

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 10 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Autumn Flow Glowing

For much of the country, September is the harbinger of the Fall.  The nighttime temperatures begin to slide and the leaves begin to transition to the complementary colors of the green of the waning Summer.  

Today's painting is a mixed-media presentation using Daniel Smith Water Soluble Oils as a base on an Ampersand panel with the addition of paper, foil,  wrapped clay and other shiny things. It is a tribute to the warm glow of Autumn before it is extinguished by coming cold blasts of Winter.

Autumn Flow Glowing
5" X 7" Panel 
Water Soluble Oils Multi-Media

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

  

Day 9 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Cacti in Bloom

Today's painting again features Daniel Smith Water Soluble Oils, but this time on canvas.  I'm enjoying working with the qualities that the oils provide and their interaction with the canvas substrate.  Texture was achieved by the oils themselves and underlying gel.

Cacti in Bloom
Acrylic on Canvas
6" X 6"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 8 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Landscape in Oils

Today's painting is done on an Ampersand Panel with a new medium I am experimenting with - Daniel Smith Water Soluble Oils.  These oils are a relatively recent addition to the Daniel Smith line of products and are definitely new to me.  I had begun in oil paints long ago and then abandoned them in favor of faster drying acrylics and other water media that allowed for a quick water clean-up. 

I had the delightful opportunity to get to test some of these magnificent paints - and I had a great time doing it! As with all Daniel Smith paints, the pigment load is superior and wonderfully rich. The colors - particularly the transparent Quinacridones - are beyond compare.  The texture is ultra-smooth and incredibly creamy.  I used both a brush and palette knife to mix and apply the luscious paint.  

The drying time is escalated in the Water-Soluble Oils using Water Soluble Fast Drying Linseed Oil. All in all it was great to be able experience the buttery texture of the oils and yet clean up with water.  

What a concept!!!

Water-soluble oils on an 6" X 6" Ampersand panel

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 7 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Camino Shells from the Sea 

More Camino de Compostela shells from the sea.  (if you missed it, read more about the significance of the Camino and the Shells in my Day 6 blog post.)  The colors are cool and refreshing after a long, hot summer...

Acrylics on paper
8" X 10"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 6 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

The Spirit of the Camino

For some time I have been very intrigued by the Camino de Santiago de Compostela (the Way of St. James).  If it is not familiar to you, it is the thousand year old, 500+ mile pilgrimage trail from the border of France to the city of Santiago de Compostela in the Northwest corner of Spain.  

If you happen to have the time and desire to explore some thoughts about the Camino and the symbolism of the Scallop Shell (used repeatedly in several of my paintings) - feel free to read the information below.  

If you would simply like to see my painting inspired by the Camino, you can view the Spirit of the Camino here.  [Also - see if you can find the Spirit contained within the shells.  It's kind of like Where's Waldo...]  The painting contains several gold and other shiny surfaces which are not evident in the photo.  Too bad because they are very lovely and add much depth.  

Acrylic & Multi-media on Canvas
11" X 16"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

La Concha del Camino Santiago de Compostela 

Much has been written about the Camino del Santiago de Compostela.  Many believe that it has had a powerful draw on travelers over the centuries - as a vehicle of reflection and  meditation. The arduous trail over Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Mountains is very demanding. There are many books which address all aspects of the journey, but it appears that most travelers approach it as a singular journey that tends to affect deep changes in one's life.  

There is an indie film called The Way, starring Martin Sheen, directed by his son Emilio Estevez, which follows the Camino journey. It is a very poignant yet very sweet story - I recommend it highly. (It's available on Netflix and Prime). In addition, I have just discovered a website where you can do a virtual walk of the Camino (which is referred to as the Camino Frances).  Check it out: http://www.walking4fun.com/trails/camino-de-santiago/camino-frances/

All of this background leads up to the most recognizable symbol of the Camino - la concha - the scallop shell.  It literally acts as a marker for the trail along the way (see photos below), reassuring travelers that they are on the right path.  It is often either worn attached to backpacks or used as a symbol of completion or pilgrim badge for having surmounted the challenges of the trail. More than just a symbol, both medieval and current pilgrims can use the shell for more practical purposes, such as scooping food and drink.

You may notice that the symbol of the scallop shell has had a place in my Harlequin Series - and continues to be used in my paintings.  To me it is a metaphor for being on the correct path and the fact that there are many ways to reach a goal.  

I hope you enjoyed this little excursion into the Camino de Santiago de   Compostela...

¡Buen Camino!

Day 5 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Emergence

There are many subtleties in this piece that I love.  The blending of soft colors over the patterns from the depths below appear to be emerging from the darkness.

Click on the painting to observe the details.

Acrylic on Paper
8" X 10"

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 4 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Harlequin Series #4

Day 4 brings two companion pieces as adjuncts to yesterday's mono-print/painting on canvas (see below).  These mono-prints on paper include some of the same elements that were used in yesterday's piece.

  

The repetition of color and shape may be evident but it is obvious that they are not identical.  The canvas substrate has its own identity and feel - complete with texture which is not a part of either mono-print on paper. 

Harlequin Series #4 Mono-print 1 on paper
11" X 16"

Harlequin Series #4 Mono-print 2 on paper

11" X 16"

As a reminder, here is the accompanying Harlequin #3 on Canvas from yesterday:

Harlequin Series #3
11" X 16" acrylic on canvas

Check back soon for the next integrated Series...

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 3 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Harlequin Series #3

Today's painting is another in my Harlequin Series.  It is a more detailed design that to me elicits something of an underwater scene.  Also included is molding paste which adds texture and relief in several areas.

Acrylic on Canvas
11" X 16"

Tomorrow I will post several of the accompanying mono-prints on paper that were generated in conjunction with this painting.  

Be sure to check back tomorrow to see how the prints differ but still remain a part of the Harlequin Series!

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!

Day 2 - 30 Paintings - 30 Days, September, 2015

Harlequin Series #2

Yesterday I posted the canvas counterpart of my two-fold mono-printing process.  As stated yesterday, the process includes both simultaneously printing on paper and on canvas - which ultimately leads to multiple, integrated creations using the same theme - with a different outcome.  This is how my Harlequin Series began.

Today I am posting the mono-print component printed on paper.  You will see some similarities - as well as differences when viewed together with the canvas below.

Framed Harlequin Mono-print on Paper

Harlequin Mono-print on Paper

Harlequin Mono-print and Paint on Canvas
as posted yesterday

During the process, many other prints are produced on various papers, card stock, deli papers, etc. which I can then use later in other multi-media creations.  I love the number of prints that are created using this process.  It is great fun, always unpredictable - yet very productive!

I will present other component pieces that I have recently created to further illustrate this somewhat unusual process that adapts well across many multi-media platforms.

It's all about the fun and diversity!

For pricing information please contact me at:  info@cagleyart.com

Thank you!