Terrill Welch by herself - issue #22 Lingering Celebrations of Summer
There is nothing quite like being able to step up close to expressive brushstrokes. This is one of the great joys of visiting galleries. I often smile when people turn to me with amazement and say, "Oh, they are so much better in person!" The truth is photographing paintings is some of the most difficult subjects I ever photograph. The difference is something like listening to your favourite band on the car radio in contrast to being at a live concert. A ton of effort went into that version coming through your speakers. But it will never be the same as listening to the band up on the stage as you are pressed in with an energized crowd. Not that I recommend crowding into the gallery pod, although I have indeed seen up to six people at a time browsing the paintings and pointing different aspects out to each other while rapidly asking me questions while I lean against the door.
That said, I know many of you rely on my ability to share the essence of my work online. With this in mind, I bring you our September issue of Terrill Welch by herself.
WHAT IS NEWLY AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION
I again have two new “Summer of Flowers” still life paintings for you.
Artist notes: The painting is inspired by the deep purple to chocolate brown reds propped between soft warm yellows and dusty pinks, balanced only by the green foliage. The bouquet includes amaranth, silver cock’s comb, nicandra or apple-of-Peru, dahlias, zinnias, dark sunflowers, yellow sunflowers, and others that I do not even know their names.
Next, we have a brilliant bouquet that glows almost as bright as the sun on a blue sky morning…
Artist notes: In this piece, white pincushion flowers offer clouds to the common dwarf sunflower as the rich yellows and fascia pinks are picked up by the dahlias and snapdragons that softened against the muted zinnias and green foliage. Great masterwort and strawflowers offer additional texture and variety. I arrange and rearrange the flowers in the vase before picking up the brush to paint the bouquet from life. Most of the still life painting comes together in the first painting session with a second look and minor changes made the next day. Even though we know summer is coming to an end, these flowers remind us not to give in to melancholy or regret as we have weeks yet of glorious days before winter. This is my seventh painting in a still life series that results from an arrangement with a local farm, who brings me a large bouquet of seasonal flowers every two weeks.
WHAT HAS SOLD
My latest large commission painting is completed and has been delivered to an art collector.
Artist notes: The piece captures various hues of mauve, yellow, and burnt orange in the sky while the Salish sea rocks a stranded driftwood log against the sandstone shore at the entrance to Active Pass. This painting idea came about during the first year of the Covid pandemic when people were often out alone or in small groups walking the shores. The log became a symbol of endurance and solace until a salvager came and rescued it to sell to a furniture maker. The painting beautifully evokes a sense of calmness and natural beauty, inviting viewers to lose themselves in its tranquil setting. The added backstory of the driftwood log during a time when many sought solace in nature's quiet corners adds an emotional layer to the artwork.
I hope to have installation images of both commissions requested by this art collector to share in our October “A Brush with Life” issue. For now, this digital room view will have to do…
NEW EXHIBITION OPENS
A new solo exhibition "Bouquets of Time" opened September 13, 2024, in the Terrill Welch Gallery Pod and closes November 18, 2024.
Join me at the Terrill Welch Gallery Pod, located at 428 Luff Rd, Mayne Island, British Columbia, Canada. The gallery proudly presents the "Bouquets of Time" exhibition, showcasing the enchanting world of my still life paintings. This evocative exhibition opened on Friday, September 13, 2024, and will be available for walk-in self-browsing daily from 11 AM to 4 PM until Monday, November 18, 2024.
The centerpiece of this event is my new "Summer of Flowers" series, a captivating collection inspired by the bouquets purchased bi-weekly from a local farmer. This artistic collaboration with nature introduces an element of chance and spontaneity, ensuring that each piece within the series exudes a unique charm reflective of the floral bounty available at the moment of creation. These paintings are imbued with the vibrancy and freshness of summer, inviting viewers to bask in their warmth and beauty.
Additionally, the exhibition features a selection of my still life paintings, depicting fruits and flowers from as far back as 2012. These works provide a well-rounded view of my evolving style and enduring fascination with the bounty of nature. Enhancing the exhibition further are two newly debuted shell paintings and three plein air landscape paintings, providing a delightful contrast and expansion to the floral theme.
In total, 24 paintings are on display, including 21 oil paintings on canvas and linen board, and three plein air paintings in acrylic on board. Each piece offers a glimpse into the artist’s meticulous process and keen eye for detail, resulting in a collection that is both cohesive and dynamic. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant, sun-drenched world of my "Bouquets of Time" exhibition. Experience the delicate interplay of chance and artistry that brings each painting to life and discover the timeless beauty found within the simple elegance of flowers and fruits.
Mark your calendars and make your way to the Terrill Welch Gallery Pod to explore this radiant celebration of summer through the eyes of a masterful artist.
More about this show is available in our private viewing room at:
THE PAINTER’S COMMITMENT
Or - you want to paint like me?…
I often get comments from people wishing they could paint like I do. The short answer is that one must paint - a lot! But that doesn’t really get at what is involved in my painting practice. Here is my recipe for painting like I do…
The Painter's Commitment
1. Techniques and Styles:
Welcome to my world of art. My painting focuses on the natural landscape, with each stroke reflecting my passion for the scenery. I primarily use oil paints, employing both brushes and palette knives to achieve textured and dynamic compositions. My style has developed through years of experimentation, always striving to capture the essence of nature. This journey has been about finding and conveying the heartbeat of each scene, creating pieces that resonate both with me and by extension, my viewers.
2. Painting Process:
As you know, painting process begins with immersing myself in nature—long walks where I observe and photograph the environment. Once back in my studio, I roughly sketch the composition on the canvas, planning out the main elements. I then build up the painting in layers, creating textures that give depth to the landscape. Mornings are my dedicated painting time, where I work in a distraction-free, organized space. This structured environment allows me to focus on my art without interruptions.
3. Balancing Painting with Other Responsibilities:
Balancing painting with other daily responsibilities requires careful time management. I schedule my painting sessions, ensuring that I prioritize my work before other tasks. Communication with my family is essential; they understand and respect my painting schedule. My husband is supportive and often helps to ensure I have uninterrupted time to create. Make no mistake though - it is me that must put my painting time first. I am the one who must take my art practice seriously.
4. Influences and Inspirations:
Nature is my primary source of inspiration. The way light interacts with shadows and changes with the seasons captivates me. I continuously seek new inspirations from nature, breathtaking landscapes, and everyday life while continuing to study the work of historic and contemporary artists. This ongoing search keeps my creativity vibrant and evolving.
Finding our unique voice in painting is a journey. Prioritize our painting time, establish a structured schedule, and involve our loved ones in our artistic commitment. Through consistent practice and blending technique with inspiration, our work will naturally develop and grow.
To paint like me, dedicate regular time to your art and immerse yourself in the creative process. With patience and passion, you will create a style that is distinctly yours, full of personal expression.
So that is it! Rinse and repeat for at least 10 years and you’ll have it mastered… and paintings stack up and leaning everywhere. 😉
I know many of you reading this are not painters and put more of your attention towards art appreciation. However, you will have an answer just in case you are ever asked - how does she do that!?
UNTIL NEXT TIME
Before we close, I want to thank each of you again for your paid membership to “Terrill Welch by herself”. I have written individually to each of you to let you know that this newsletter will become free and publicly accessible as of November this year. In addition, it will be the only newsletter you will receive from me each month. The Feature Painting monthly email and the quarterly “A Brush with Life” issues will be discontinued. This is to support my commitment to having enough time to work on my Master’s of Fine Art that begins October 7, 2024 when students are given access to the online platform. Although I am excited, I also have a sense of loss for what this more private writing space has offered us. However, possibly in the future, something else similar can be offered to you again. In the meantime, know that I have physically cancelled all paid subscriptions in the newsletter platform. If you, for any reasons, have any questions do let me know.
I enjoy the quieter slower pace of September on our island and the more relaxed fall visitors that find their way to the gallery pod. There is something about having a generous amount of time to simply be and to even day dream that I deeply appreciate. I have space organized upstairs in the loft to keep reference materials for my studies. The car has been serviced and is ready for my trip north. David’s son has his trip booked to come stay with David and cover for me at home while I am away. I am looking forward to the drive, visiting my parents and seeing a few other family members and friends. I won’t take my paints for this eight day trip because I am due for break from my brushes having already completed over 30 paintings this year. It has been a bit of a push but I am ready for the next six months. Admittedly, I feel a twinge of vulnerability for what is yet to be discovered on this path going forward. Am I up to it? That is my biggest self doubt. Yet, I know that we move forward by boldly taking calculated risks. Succeed or fail, I must try.
How about you? How is your fall shaping up?
Whatever is engaging you, I am sure it is just right for you. If you have time to write, I would love to hear.
In the meantime, take care and all the best as always,
Terrill 👩🎨🎨❤️
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