Bromiliad, abstracted, acrylic, 11x14     $200

Complex.  Unparalleled.  Extrodinary.  Profound changes.  Art?  Essential!

Bright Bouquet, 2018, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 12"x 12"

Explore Tigertail Beach with me!  

Deep In, painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Deep In, 2017, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 16x20

Happy New Year. 

It's a bit cold today on Marco Island, and most likely a lot colder for you in the north.  

When I started this blog some years ago, blogging was new and my stream was a journal of my artistic efforts and the daily life of an artist. I'm going to give it a try again despite the variety of other internet options.  We'll see whether it's sustainable--both in the writing and your interest-- in the coming year.     

I'll work in the studio today since it's overcast and the light is rather flat.  I'm waiting for a frame for a commission, and about to start a large beach scene for a client who plays bocce on the beach and wants a painting.  Ideas have been stirring around for the last month and it's time to get busy and see how the composition looks on canvas.  

Classes will start here in my home studio next week, so I'll spend some time preparing for that as well.  

  

Glow, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Glow, 2017Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5: x 7"

Back in the Glades daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Back in the Glades, 2017, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on canvas, 5" x7"

I've re-worked the "en plain aire"  tips page,  but have found mosquitoes to be a huge deterrent to painting outside right now.The invasion of the salt marsh variety is the worst I can remember. They are fierce all day, even when there's a breeze!  Apparently, they don't carry Zika! 

Fall, and Way Out There, daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Way Out There, 2015, Jo-Ann Sanborn

Acrylic on canvas, 12" x 12"

By September, we've had enough of the rains and high humidity, and I long for the crisp blue-sky days and colorful maples and oaks of a New England fall. When my sister was in Hawaii  and I was still in New England, I would send her fall leaves ironed between two sheets of wax paper, so she wouldn't forget her roots!  

In the northeast, the bright yellow-greens of spring transition into the rich, full, permanent greens of summer and gradually fade to the olive greens of fall.  Some years the trees sport magnificent riots of color for weeks, depending on the timing of rain and wind and other factors of weather.  From all reports, this year will be a good one for fall color.   

Here in south Florida, nature is beginning to respond to the cycle of changing light and moisture in much more subtle ways. In the Everglades, the lush greens of summer will slowly fade to the golds of autumn, and then to the pinkish-purplish-grays of the dry season.  Yes, you will see purple way out there.  

Greens are always a challenge to a landscape painter.  We need to be able to vary them to show a variety of  plant life and also distance.  Permanent green is not my favorite color. but I've been given a few tubes by a friend who no longer paints.  I'm getting better at using it by mixing with various reds to make some nice greens.  Still, I'll give a tube of permanent green to the first artist who comes into my studio and asks for it!  

Hibiscus, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Hibiscus, 2015, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 7"x 5"

I love their trumpet shape of hibiscus and the wonderful combinations of color in the multiple varieties.  They are perfect to tuck a bloom behind your ear when you are feeling tropical or to enjoy in a petite vase on your dressing table for morning ablutions.  This one is from a plant in my back yard.  I've added the background--and if I am patient, will have more greenery surrounding my small plant in the future.

Alas, the blooms are fleeting, lasting only a day. 

Pick of the Garden, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Pick of the Garden, 2015, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 7"x 5"

If you are reading this, you are reading my blog.  The word blog means "web log," This blog has been mine since I started writing it in 2007.  It's like an artist's diary.  If you look back at the earlier posts you will see many of my earlier paintings and what was important to me on certain days in the past.  You have to sign up to receive my blog by putting your email in the box at the top right. 

I usually write two blog posts a week. The subject can be whatever comes to mind.  Early on I did quite a few teaching-type posts, and sometimes get back to that when I have a class scheduled.  Sometimes I write about the fabulous Everglades landscape--every time I visit, I feel like I've received a great gift from nature.  Some posts are about places visited or art exhibitions  attended, or a new tool I've discovered. It's a pretty mixed bag!  

My newsletter is a little different, published once a month.  I post my three newest fine art paintings and let you know about my schedule and any upcoming classes along with an article of interest. If you sign up to receive my newsletter either from the sign-up in the studio or through the website, you become eligible to win a daily painting, drawn randomly three times a year. 

Thanks, as always, for your interest in my work!

NAWA, and Summer Sparkle by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Summer Sparkle, 2015, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 11"x 14"

Today's painting is my entry for the National Association of Women Artist's (NAWA) 126th National Member's Show.  It's portrays a bit of coastline off Everglades City where are there is some tall palms.

The NAWA exhibition will be held at the Sylvia Wald and Kim Po Gallery, 417 Lafayette Street, 4th Floor, NYC 10003, from August 24th thru September 23. There will be a reception on Thursday, September 10, 2015, 6-8 p.m. 

The National exhibitions are always exciting since the mixed media show includes the work of some of the best women artists in the country. You will not be disappointed!

If you are in New York during that time period, please make a visit to the gallery.  If you take a photo of yourself with my painting, I'll be sure and post it! 

Peaceful Morning, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Peaceful Morning, 2015, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 5"x7"

Yesterday morning I woke up to a magnificent thunderstorm building just off the coast.  It was followed by an equally gorgeous rainbow.  This morning, the sky was filled with what I call scud--puffy gray clouds against the lighter sky,  

Summer mornings in south Florida are always a delightful surprise!   

May Morning, daily painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

May Morning, 2914, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

 

 

Beach Wind, 2014, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 18"x14"

 

Here's an example of what I spoke about in the last blog post.  It's the same scene, a clump of palms on the beach near one of the condos.  It's contains a nice mix of brush and grasses, with several palms for height.  The composition and variety of textures is interesting and challenging. 

 

In this case the larger painting was painted first.  The strong vertical and motion of the palms help to give the painting a windy-day-type feeling.  There's a lot of detail in the grasses and brush, and quite a bit of subtle color. 

 

While very satisfied with the painting, I felt there was more to say about this scene, so a month later painted the smaller daily painting. The scene is simplified into more basic elements., done fairly quickly in just a couple of hours.  You can see that it is much more immediate, but still has the feeling of the day

Dancing with the Moon painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Dancing with the Moon, 2014, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 36x48

sold

I love the gorgeous, luminous moon we sometimes see in the night sky over Marco Island.  Combine that lovely moon with a balmy evening and some dancing palms, and the scene is set for romance. 

A walk on the beach, stopping on a bridge to overlook the reflection of the moon in the water, having a glass of wine on the dock in the dark, a quiet dinner at the shore are all activities that come to mind.  If you live on or visit Marco Island, you can readily identify with this painting and the emotions it evokes.

This painting will find a home with collectors who are newly in love. Who's sharing this scene with you?

Thicket, painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Thicket, 2014, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 11x14

 

All of my canvases are usually primed with a dark, warm tone. I build a painting starting with a dark toned canvas background and work into the light. The light forms are scumbled in, and then back to the darks. I do this over and over until I've got the forms built and the negative shapes working in a that balances and works compositionally. It's later that I start on the details. Thicket was done in just this way.

I've been working that way for almost 35 years, but lately have been working straight onto white gessoboard for some of my daily paintings. I'm a great one for mixing things up now and then--otherwise I become either complacent, or worse, bored.  The change makes me think about the canvas in a different way and the light bounces back differently.  I have to really work to get in the darks. 

 

The studio/gallery will be open next week for the regular hours - Wed-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-2, but I'll be taking a few days off.  See you soon! 

Blank Canvas and Quiet Sunset, daily painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Quiet Sunset, 2013, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 5"x7"

 

 

When looking at a blank canvas, the possibilities are endless.  Freshly into the start of a painting, my energy level is high and I have a wonderful sense of freedom, and confidence.  I spend a couple of hours or more in this nirvana, enjoying the flow of the paint, the clean palette choices, making decisions about composition.  This stage is the joy of painting, often called "the zone." 

After a while I step back and take a look.  I usually walk away from the easel at this point, do something else for a minute, and then go back to assess my efforts after my eye has been refreshed.  When everything looks good, I continue, but more often than not I have to face the agony of reality. The composition needs to be adjusted.  What I've painted might have strayed from what the client and I talked about.  The color strategy could need strengthening.  Or worse, "What was I thinking?" 

Then the real work of painting begins.  The next few days or hours or weeks are spent getting a painting to a point where the painting can stand on its own, has a life of its own, and doesn't need me anymore.  It lives and breathes separately, without any help from me.  Then, and only then is it done, ready to go out into the world, into someone else' home or space, and hopefully, to bring them joy.

Lease, and Spring Morning, painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Spring Morning, 2014, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 8"x 10"

After being told by the landlord that my studio/gallery space was going to be leased to someone else even though I was a "model tenant," I've been given a reprieve. Barring any unforeseen issues, I'll soon be signing a new, three-year lease to stay at the Esplanade.  

In the interim I've thought of little else.  Every option was considered. Find space elsewhere. Paint at home and have a show now and then.  Join in with other artists. (thank you VERY much for the invitation!) Go back to outdoor shows or the Farmer's market.  Look for a gallery. Retire.  Retire?  Nothing felt quite right.  

In the end, keeping the studio/gallery was what seemed best for me, so I asked the landlord to reconsider this decision.  Upon receiving my business and marketing plan, financials, and a strongly worded plea, I was reconsidered as a tenant and approved for a three year lease.  It's not all roses, since the new lease is a tough one and I'll have to work very hard, but I'm comfortable that the decision is the right one.

So I'll sign the lease and be at the Esplanade for another three years.  Many thanks to all of you who comforted me, stood up for me, spoke up for me, called me, emailed me, helped with the financials, review the legal stuff, and generally supported my plea. It wouldn't have happened without YOU and I am most truly grateful for your support. 

Come in for some coffee and art chat.  I'll be at my easel!

Flor500, and Joewood by Jo-Ann Sanborn

Joewood, 2014, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 12"x16"

This  painting was done for Flor500, a participatory project created by Miami artist Xavier Cortada, and combines art, nature, and a history project.  You can find out more about the project here.

As part of this project, 500 scientists named 500 wildflowers that grew in our state 500 years ago, and 500 artist were asked to depict them.  Joewood grows along the barrier islands in Collier County, and I chose it because if it's delicate flower and the name, similar to mine.

You can see the southwest Florida artists here.  I took number 376, and you can see the painting  and more about the flower here.

In conjunction with the Florida Native Plant Society Conference, the paintings will be on display at the FGCU gallery from May 17-June 13, with a reception on May 17.  Should be fun.  

Spring Sparkle, and You're invited to Tea!

Spring Sparkle, 2014, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 12"x12"

 

You're Invited to Tea!!

 

At the Esplanade, 760 Collier Blvd, Marco Island, FL  34145

 

Hope you can come.  I'm looking forward to seeing you! 

Palm at Dusk, 2013, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on board, 7"x5"

 

Dusk is a special time of day, a time when nature sometimes surprises us with the gift of natural beauty.  I love to just sit for a moment, sometimes with a glass of tea or wine, and just absorb the beauty in the landscape. 

 

These times can be peaceful and restorative, and give me the energy to do what needs to be done at the end of day.  I encourage you to take a quite moment with nature to feel the energy and joy, and you will be well rewarded.  



Flirting with a Breeze - March Madness

Flirting with a Breeze, 2013, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 16x20



THE WHITE RABBIT'S VERSES
by: Lewis Carroll (1832-1898)

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HEY told me you had been to her,

And mentioned me to him;

She gave me a good character,

But said I could not swim.

 

He sent them word I had not gone.

(We know it to be true.)

If she should push the matter on,

What would become of you?

 

I gave her one, they gave him two,

You gave us three or more;

They all returned from him to you,

Though they were mine before.

 

If I or she should chance to be

Involved in this affair,

He trusts to you to set them free,

Exactly as we were.

 

My notion was that you had been

(Before she had this fit)

An obstacle that came between

Him and ourselves and it.

 

Don't let him know she liked them best,

For this must ever be

A secret, kept from all the rest,

Between yourself and me.

"The White Rabbit's Verses" is reprinted from The Hunting of the Snark and Other Poems and Verses. Lewis Carroll. New York: Harper & Brothers, 1903.

Read more at http://www.poetry-archive.com/c/the_white_rabbits_verses.html#fmS0OI63LbgJ9t8f.99

THE WHITE RABBIT'S VERSES
by: Lewis Carroll (1832-1898)

Share12 Tweet0 Share0 Share760

HEY told me you had been to her,

And mentioned me to him;

She gave me a good character,

But said I could not swim.

 

He sent them word I had not gone.

(We know it to be true.)

If she should push the matter on,

What would become of you?

 

I gave her one, they gave him two,

You gave us three or more;

They all returned from him to you,

Though they were mine before.

 

If I or she should chance to be

Involved in this affair,

He trusts to you to set them free,

Exactly as we were.

 

My notion was that you had been

(Before she had this fit)

An obstacle that came between

Him and ourselves and it.

 

Don't let him know she liked them best,

For this must ever be

A secret, kept from all the rest,

Between yourself and me.

"The White Rabbit's Verses" is reprinted from The Hunting of the Snark and Other Poems and Verses. Lewis Carroll. New York: Harper & Brothers, 1903.

Read more at http://www.poetry-archive.com/c/the_white_rabbits_verses.html#fmS0OI63LbgJ9t8f.99

March Madness!

The number of visitors to the island continues to grow, many coming from the frozen northlands for a bit of sunshine and greenery after a brutal winter in much of the country. It's fun to make new friends and hear their stories.Talk on Marco Island is all about being named the number ONE island to visit in the country, so we are gearing up for even more visitors. Talk about March Madness!

AskArt!
Many thanks and much gratitude to Diana Williams, a fine art appraiser who initiated an artist listing for me on AskArt--The Artist's Blue Book , after visiting my studio last month. There are thousands of artists listed, with information about their lives and work, I'm delighted to be one of them. There's a discussion board on this site allowing additional notices of interest and facts about listed artists. You can see my listing here . Buying or selling of paintings can be done in a separate section of the site.

Additional Hours
My studio/gallery is opened on most Tuesdays, thanks to Holly and Cece, who have been a great help. My occasional studio assistant, Nicholas, helps me frame and ship, and also climbs the high ladder to change light bulbs and focus them on the paintings--a never-ending challenge, since I move things around all the time. Their help allows me to focus more on painting, which I'd much rather do. We'll probably keep to this schedule through April.

Upcoming Events
March 20, 4-5:30 pm. Thursday, is another of my Tea with the Artist - We'll celebrate Spring! As before, we will have tea, and some goodies, and yes, PRIZES. Bring a photo of yourself with one of my paintings to be eligible to win!

Visit my website! 

Robert Genn, and Evening Vigil, painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Evening Vigil, 2013, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 20"x16"

 

I've never met artist Robert Genn, but he's come twice a week for coffee in the morning for several years now.  We're close.  He's dear to me.  When he wrote his blog post "the bomb" tears came to my eyes.  I can't imaging losing him.  

 

He's one of those men who, at least publicly, lives a life of grace.  Articulate and funny, full of wisdom, with an abiding understand of what matters at the heart of life, he's maneuvered me through many of the intricacies of becoming a better painter and all the while, a better person, too. 

 

I know someone diagnosed with his disease who got a reprieve, and wish this deeply for Robert.  In the meantime, my prayers will be with him as he takes a journey into the unknown, one we all must take in turn. 

 

Best wishes, Robert, however the circle turns.