Sunday, December 17, 2006

San Diego Harbor


I went on a little trip up the California coast this week. I didn't get much painting done, so I'm posting a plein-air painting that I did a few weeks ago, called "San Diego Harbor", It is 12 x 16 inches, oil on canvas.

My first stop on my trip was in San Louis Obispo where Bill Wray introduced me to a gallery owner. Once I get some new paintings finished, I look forward to perhaps doing a show up there.

Then Bill and I went on to San Francisco where we saw the de Young Museum's collection of American painting. The highlights of the collection for me were Rockwell Kent, an Edward Hopper, a major Thomas Benton tempera painting, and a couple Thiebauds. I looked at my list of potential galleries to show my work around town, but I didn't get the feel that I would fit in just right... I only liked a couple places. But I shot alot of film and hopefully will do some "Bay Area" paintings.

And finally we made our way to Stockton. The long awaited J.C. Leyendecker show was at the Haggin Museum there, we spent two days viewing the exhibit of 50 original artworks. I can't think of another artist who can paint the figure with more excitement and technical mastery. The above image is the kind of illustration work that he's typically known for, the idealized American male of the 1920's. I have a huge collection of Leyendecker stuff, dating from the late 1890's thru the late 1940's. He did covers for the Saturday Evening Post and paved the way for Norman Rockwell (who idolized Leyendecker). And since I want to paint the figure more in my work, there's few who's paintings can educate like Leyendecker's. It was great to see so many in person.

7 comments:

william wray said...

Good choice on this one to represent the JCL show, a definite highlight despite the missing bulge.

Jon Conkey said...

Tony,

"San Diego Harbor shreds"; great perspective and nice washing of the light on the water, I have always been confused on how to approach that glare across the water and get it to be believable.

JCL is a favorite of mine as well, I had no idea you had such a fine collection of his work, next time I'm in so.cal. I would sure like to give you a heads up if your around.

If you get time, check out my portraits on Themeworks, July, August...I did some work trying to paint Franz Hals/Leyendecker style...I didn't get many reactions, I would sure like your feedback though.

Painting everyday is messing up my ability to work longer, I need to slow down to get more out of my works; yet I am still stuck with my committment for about 100 more. Cheers!

tonypetersart said...

This JCL painting had alot of glare on it, most of these particular pics were blurry.

tonypetersart said...

Hey Jon,

Thanks for your kind words about "San Diego Harbor". I've painted that kind of glare a few times in the past, I ought to do it more often. Makes for good drama.

I love Leyendecker, I have tons of old original printed stuff, plus an original JCL oil painting. I'd buy another one if I could afford it right now. Yes, let me know if you're ever in So Cal, I'd love to show off my collection.

I'll stop by and check out that link of yours.

Jon Conkey said...

Tony,

I appreciate you taking the time to check out those head paintings, and give me your thoughts.

Leyendecker's touch is so similair to Francois Boucher's conte' style, he is definitely my favorite of that era. Undoubtedly, his show will spike the price of his works; again! Good equity for those who collect his works.

I will definitely give you a heads up when I am out your way.

All good your way in 2007!

Best, Jon

tonypetersart said...

That's funny... I thought I was the only one who saw the similarities between Leyendecker and Francois Boucher. Some friends of mine strongly disagreed and thought I was crazy. After all, it's popular to hate Rococo painters.

Nice work on your blog, by the way. There's no better way to grow with your skills than to do a painting every day. Hats off to you.

Anonymous said...

Its really too good..great job..keep going..


Thanks for sharing...


___________________
Andrew
The Best PRICE for the BEST ENTERTAINMENT