tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71631289288201451642012-01-25T22:45:12.667-08:00silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.comBlogger1131100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-45921596199939463332011-12-12T14:20:00.000-08:002011-12-12T14:20:49.764-08:00

Bird in Paradise 12"x12" o/c                                                                                                                                                                 Tortuga Island, Costa  Rica

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-61901915193770088012011-11-28T10:25:00.001-08:002011-11-28T10:40:01.514-08:00

The Chair and The Coconut20"x24" o/c Came upon this wobbly legged wooden chair on the beach in Montezuma, Costa Rica

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-14993081433269071092011-11-17T16:31:00.001-08:002011-11-20T11:32:53.906-08:00

Tortuga Island Just got back from vacationing in Costa Rica We visited many parts of this Central American Country; San Jose, Santa Ana, Puntarenas, Montezuma, Tortuga, Atenas, Jaco Before the trip we read Nadine Hays Pisani's; Happier Than A Billionaire a true story told with great humor about an adventurous young couple who quit the American rat race

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-87959810815363943972011-10-18T14:02:00.000-07:002011-10-24T13:18:08.522-07:00

Maternal Bond 12x12" oil/gallery wrapped canvas I painted this impressionistic white dove and her offspring for auction on Daily Paintworks to benefit Every Mother Counts an organization that focuses on combatting maternal mortality and injuries worldwide

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-15591580035647104632011-09-29T11:50:00.000-07:002011-09-29T14:10:36.028-07:00

Studies of Chess pieces in my studio The annual High Desert Art Tour is coming the weekend of October 8th & 9th There will be over 25 artists exhibiting their artwork  Drop by my studio between the hours of 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday  or 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday Pick up tour maps at Agua Dulce Vineyards or Vincent Hill Station For further

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-59967355950273101232011-08-30T16:03:00.000-07:002011-08-30T16:03:46.474-07:00

     Daily Paint Works is conducting a fundraising auction to help the starving children of Africa.  I have put up for auction Sweet Banana Peppers on African Batik for this cause. All proceeds from this sale will go to World Vision.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-23259547166968971742011-08-02T12:59:00.000-07:002011-08-02T15:09:21.575-07:00

I'm excited to announce that I've joined the Daily Paintworks Gallery. I've just posted my first auction piece; Bartlett Pears on Coral Print. Please visit the site and browse the works of the many talented and skilled artists there. You can find my DPW Auction page HERE

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-89164572458811744862010-12-16T18:17:00.000-08:002011-02-15T16:51:30.002-08:00

sharing a present Some individuals are blessed with a wonderful spirit of generosity, never hesitating to share what is theirs with others. Karen Appleton is one of those individuals. As you may know, Karen paints symbolic gift-wrapped presents.  During her recent artist's residency she came up with an elegantly simple concept for connecting people around the

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-83813464114678783732010-12-07T12:41:00.000-08:002011-08-01T15:07:40.913-07:00

winter grass   8x10" oil plein air study painted with  Rich & some of his friends yesterday felt so good to use a full array of colors again I would like to wish all of you a very  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-52236868751441579812010-11-23T15:05:00.000-08:002010-12-09T13:03:55.526-08:00

black & white pawns study18x18" charcoal & pastel on newsprint

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-26169455472302519522010-11-18T23:47:00.000-08:002010-12-10T22:11:02.403-08:00

I resisted writing this, but someone kept pressing me to write it "for the sake of artists who get crushed and quit". If nothing else, it will at least be therapeutic for me to vent. I recently went with a friend to an Arts Tune Up seminar in Los Angeles. There were 10-11 tables in a meeting room. Each table had a sign posted for the subject that would be discussed there by a professional in

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-78084348403969954612010-11-04T14:42:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:06:05.106-08:00

black rook study 24x18"charcoal & oil pastel on newsprint

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-82680656429911617082010-10-27T12:26:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:06:40.867-08:00

white knight sketch study 24x18"charcoal & oil pastel on newsprint

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-88813980107729426842010-10-25T15:39:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:07:15.005-08:00

black bishop sketch 24x18"charcoal & oil pastel on newsprint

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-44615042762690414232010-10-20T21:21:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:09:02.180-08:00

Independent Woman, 14 x 11" oil monday afternoon I visited my grandmother early the same evening  she passed away ... childhood memories are flooding my mind my grandmother wasa very strong independent woman she delighted in playing chesseven with a 7 year old she often let me win I remember  tantalizing aromas emanatingfrom her little kitchen the smell of her fine perfumemingled with 

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-27659738182260354992010-09-17T09:59:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:09:45.958-08:00

heirloom tomato on leopard print8"x10" oil

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-81645999906112235162010-09-11T12:18:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:10:31.238-08:00

sweet-banana peppers on african batik8"x10" oil

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-85404152526504538702010-09-07T09:17:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:11:10.329-08:00

bartlett pears on coral print8"x10" oil

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-10452317856232643582010-09-06T15:08:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:11:36.292-08:00

peaches on moroccan print8"x10" oil

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-89398459148731550452010-08-30T11:08:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:12:26.379-08:00

green apples on magenta floral 8"x10" oil

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-45274105145407068262010-08-27T18:22:00.000-07:002010-12-09T13:14:07.585-08:00

                         veggie garden at dusk nasturtiums, lavender, chives purple sage, marigolds, roquette  leeks, tomatoes, strawberriesjapanese eggplants, sweet peppers swiss chard, zucchini, carrotsgolden beets, cucumber, spicy peppers apricots, apples, plums, pearsfigs, peaches, pomegranates, grapes basil, oregano, thyme, lemon balm jasmine, honeysuckle all tumbling over

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-78218877799077867242010-08-09T18:53:00.000-07:002010-08-27T16:15:03.032-07:00

"The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco."  -Mark Twain (maybe). We visited San Francisco while on vacation. There was a very fast drop in temperature as we neared the city. 55 degrees, wind, drizzle. Thankfully we were staying one hour south where it was 80 degrees and clear. SAN FRAN WINTER WEAR : thermal underwear, toe socks, jeans, sweater, boots or hip waders, wool

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-7722833541090771952010-07-31T09:35:00.000-07:002010-08-28T09:10:42.907-07:00

The artist reception at the golf club was a lovely event. One of my paintings sold to the manager of the Hyatt hotel and another to an interior designer. Interior designer Reuben Haynes considering Baby Dove for his collection. I think he liked the story of how the dove flew around my studio and landed on my palette, dipping his tail feathers in Cad. red.  I was speaking to a lady behind the

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-44358415207549527692010-07-25T08:16:00.000-07:002010-07-28T10:19:13.076-07:00

From July 27th through 30th I will be exhibiting at the Tournament Players Club of Valencia with a group of artists from the Valencia Artist's Association. There will be a reception on Friday, July 30th from 5 - 7 pm. Wine and hors d'oeuvres will be served. Everyone is invited!

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-19705691028837039692010-06-09T09:43:00.000-07:002010-06-09T09:43:43.750-07:00

This year the amount of participating artists more than tripled that of last year's tour. We were very fortunate to get an interview with the A.V. Press, a major newspaper in our area. Then much to everyone's surprise we made the front page! Free advertising; I like it. After the event the artists brought their spouses over to our place for a casual potluck get-together. I thoroughly enjoyed

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-9731080395223381092010-05-02T15:45:00.000-07:002010-12-09T22:11:47.151-08:00

Walter,  5"x7" oil - sold I'm cleaning up my studio and framing some work to prepare for our 2nd annual High Desert Art Tour.  If you are in the area Saturday, May 15th, come on over anytime between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. Click here for instructions on where to pick up a Tour map. 

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-24697254185542588822010-04-28T12:23:00.000-07:002010-04-28T12:56:51.296-07:00

Finally got a web site up and running. Please take a look here: SILVINA-DAY.COMIs the burnt-orange background too much or does it work?I'd like to hear how it looks on your screen.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-24757661982031474912010-04-20T19:38:00.000-07:002010-12-09T22:01:45.855-08:00

8"x6" oil A member of my mom's rescued feline menagerie. sold

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-44973358543471703142010-04-11T22:30:00.000-07:002010-08-27T09:31:51.939-07:00

The California Poppy Reserve is in full bloom! I took these photos last Saturday when I was painting there with Rich and his group. I hope to get out there again before the poppies are all gone.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-45814693197246688642010-04-08T17:08:00.000-07:002010-04-08T17:16:00.665-07:00

11"x14" oilLuna is a sweet little female goat at Animal Acres.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-86418501281759010572010-04-06T11:10:00.000-07:002010-05-17T07:45:56.692-07:00

8"x10" oil/panel - sold Close to my home there is a rescue called Animal Acres. Their mission is to rescue farm animals that have been abused, neglected or abandoned. They also advocate a vegan lifestyle. They have some very friendly goats. This one was interested in my camera lens.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-87463491378801339222010-04-05T09:38:00.000-07:002010-05-17T07:46:25.374-07:00

12"x12" oil/canvas - sold This cottontail was on my front lawn one morning. I love sunlight shining through rabbit's ears.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-5231675906299626472010-03-31T14:48:00.000-07:002010-05-20T15:47:48.485-07:00

5"x7" oil/board - sold My friend Eleanor invited me over to see her beautiful cottage garden just as her daffodils were coming into bloom. Thousands of daffodils. A myriad of varieties. Great way to usher in Spring.Happy Easter!

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-42912037061001434932010-03-24T11:57:00.000-07:002010-12-09T14:54:34.420-08:00

Years ago I dubbed my mom "the dog fairy" because when someone needs some cheering up or expresses a passing interest in adopting a dog, poof, my mom is there with canine in hand. So naturally when I suggested that Cosmo needed a playmate, I was immediately whisked away to a dog shelter. Practically teleported. At the shelter I became completely smitten with a hyper little female Terrier mix.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-78683523485763260402009-10-07T15:19:00.000-07:002010-04-05T14:14:30.908-07:00

9"x12" oil/boardClass demo for week 4. Mixing colorful grays without the use of black or brown.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-14926897137228472792009-09-17T12:54:00.000-07:002009-09-17T22:10:54.611-07:00

18"x 24" o/cFigure study done at the Animation Guild in Burbank, Karl Gnass figure painting.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-68674206742412587982009-09-15T12:00:00.000-07:002009-09-15T12:03:59.002-07:00

The Challenge subject for September is "pantry shelf" chosen by Robin Cheers. And we have a newcomer to the Moses Botkin Challenge group, Suzanne Berry from New York. Welcome Suz!Steel Cut Oats, 12x12" o/c by Silvina DayYo-ho-ho and a Bottle of Rum, 6x8" o/p c2009, by Diana Moses BotkinThe Red Napkin, 16x20" o/c c2009 by Marie Fox Coffee Corner, 7x12" o/b c2009 by Michael Naples Staples, 8x16 o/p

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-69809462005645838602009-08-30T18:34:00.000-07:002009-08-30T20:16:04.422-07:00

The Flintridge fire has now become the Acton fire. I shot this picture from the end of my driveway today. My property begins at the white fence on the right. The man walking down the road is my neighbor's son, Bennett, coming to ask if I need any help packing valuables. The plane in the sky is a DC-10 that has been dumping fire retardant on the flames all day. What does a painter pack when

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-39019978477696707742009-08-15T12:00:00.000-07:002009-09-15T11:22:14.095-07:00

Robin Cheers chose "unmade bed" for this Moses Botkin Challenge. I welcomed the opportunity to paint in the comfort of my cool bedroom while it was 100 degrees outside.Reminder: In September I'll be teaching a still-life class at VIVA. Please check link for details.Unmade Bed, 9x12 o/c by Silvina Day soldExpedition on an Unmade Bed, 8x10 o/b (c)2009 by Diana Moses BotkinWine Night, 8x8 o/b (c)

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-84452163891263779062009-08-04T21:47:00.001-07:002011-06-28T20:05:36.827-07:00

6"x6" o/c. Little quickie painting of eggplants from my garden. ANNOUNCEMENT: Beginning September 3rd I'll be instructing a beginners still-life class for 10 Thursday evenings. Hours are from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Class will be held at the VIVA gallery in Sherman Oaks. Please e-mail me for more info if you would like to attend.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-1015504261671935412009-07-21T17:43:00.000-07:002009-10-04T17:19:31.785-07:00

Demo for still-life class I teach on Thursday mornings. Sold

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-47946348456394458622009-06-23T11:05:00.000-07:002009-06-23T11:52:01.073-07:00

18x18 o/c, head study. John Tucker was our model at the Animation Guild yesterday. Funny, I was thinking Sunday night how much I would love to paint someone that is wearing a hat. Yippee-kayay.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-57729834164124973242009-06-15T12:00:00.000-07:002009-06-15T21:24:19.796-07:00

Marie Fox chose "something shiny from the kitchen" as this month's Moses Botkin Challenge subject.Serving Spoon, o/c 8x10 Silvina DayPress Event, o/c 7x5 (c)2009 Diana Moses BotkinFlour Scoop and Silver Cup, o/c 8x10 (c)2009 Marie FoxFace Off, 8x8 o/c (c)2009 Michael NaplesGravy Boat and Cherries, pastel 8x8 (c)2009 Mike BeemanSpoons, 6x12 o/linen (c)2009 Robin CheersSteel Cut Berries, o/b 6x12 (

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-27422363244473194792009-05-15T12:00:00.000-07:002009-05-15T12:27:35.208-07:00

The Moses Botkin Challenge subject for May was chosen by Mike Beeman. It is "Pig Party". Mike wanted to see what we would come up with given a concept rather than a specific object to paint. Soon after he announced his idea to the group, the newspaper headlines read; "Swine Flu Pandemic!". Pig Party, o/c 11x14 Silvina DayPiggie Party of Five, o/c 4x6 c2009 Diana Moses BotkinPiggy Bank Picnic, o

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-67808918287221504802009-05-12T10:29:00.000-07:002010-06-10T11:32:20.381-07:00

The Studio Tour was a wonderful success! I was told that these sort of things start slow and build up momentum over the years. Anticipating long periods of inactivity, I had set up a still life to paint but I never got the chance to pick up a paint brush. Thankfully there wasn't an overwhelming crowd of people but a very comfortable, steady stream of visitors. I thoroughly enjoyed talking to

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-45302757345656489572009-05-05T10:50:00.000-07:002009-06-26T10:22:31.912-07:00

Announcing Acton & Agua Dulce's first Artist Studio Tour.The Acton/Agua Dulce Arts Council is inviting art lovers from nearby communities to come enjoy a day of perusing fine art, tasting good food and fine wine in a peaceful and relaxed country atmosphere.Who: local artists from our high desert communities Where: private studios & designated local businesses in Acton & Agua DulceWhen: Saturday,

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-74636401105654763782009-04-27T20:04:00.000-07:002009-04-28T08:54:03.026-07:00

16x20 o/c. Head study. Same model as last week. Different approach. I found the nose to be a bit of a challenge at this angle. Karl came to the rescue.Yuko gave me this origami bunny that she made during a break in class.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-13098253080926607932009-04-21T14:06:00.001-07:002009-04-21T14:55:44.523-07:00

18x18, o/c. Study of Japanese model in Chinese dress. 

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-49135827077228983792009-04-15T08:54:00.001-07:002009-04-16T19:51:12.829-07:00

This month's painting subject for the Moses Botkin Challenge group is a pair of shoes. My idea. Turns out the popular choice for shoe color was red or a derivative of red.I apologize for not being active in the blog community lately. I'm currently inundated with art related responsibilities and, ironically, can't find the time to paint.Red Silk Espadrilles, 11x14 oil/panel Silvina DayKnights in

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-9057505983359717192009-03-14T16:20:00.000-07:002009-03-15T20:27:51.442-07:00

Our group's subject for March is the eggplant, chosen by Vicki Ross. I've always wanted to try painting an eggplant. It's one of my favorite vegetables, for grilling and for its ultra deep hue.Eggplants, 8x10 oil/canvas Silvina DayAttack on the Eggplant, 6x8 oil ©2009 Diana Moses BotkinIt's Just a Big Ole Eggplant, 14x10 oil/canvas ©2009 Dianne MizeHuddled Eggplants, 11x14 oil/canvas ©2009 Marie

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-87350531706365515662009-03-10T10:50:00.000-07:002009-03-10T11:06:30.380-07:00

20"x24" o/c. Detail of figure study.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-39134469596571285742009-02-24T11:35:00.001-08:002009-02-24T12:14:06.491-08:00

Knowing, 36"x48" o/c.This is one of 90+ paintings that recently showed in Seattle and are now on exhibit in Dallas, Texas at Galleria Pierra. The show opened Friday and will run through March 29th.Featured artists include Frank Ordaz, Chris Hopkins, Thomas Blackshear, Mick McGinty, Michael Dudash, Tim Solliday, Daniel Gerhardt and many more.I feel very honored to be included in this traveling

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-81692737553364510402009-02-10T16:56:00.000-08:002009-03-14T16:30:05.776-07:00

Eight of us are participating in a monthly paint Challenge proposed by Diana Moses Botkin. Diana's subject choice for February was a l-e-g-o man. But we later found out that we are not allowed to use the brand name in the title. So these are the results of our concerted efforts toward depicting our "plastic figures". "Call Me Plastic Figure One More Time" 8"x10" oil, (c)2009 Silvina Day"Snow!

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-39610431741002688712009-02-09T11:49:00.000-08:002011-06-30T12:18:22.565-07:00

This morning I drove approx. 50 miles in heavy rain to the Gnass studio, unpacked, started to sketch the model then got a text from my son who was gazing out his school room window at big snow flakes coming down. Text; "It's snowing really hard right now!". I packed up and headed home because they close the freeway when we get the rare snowfall. No figure painting today. ROBOT 9- Alan at Robot

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-74292565868362919682009-02-03T21:28:00.000-08:002009-02-03T21:41:18.650-08:00

18x24 figure study.Fabulous costume, no?

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-7008874074239391402009-01-20T13:22:00.000-08:002009-01-20T13:48:13.332-08:00

18x24 figure/composition study.Composing shapes and values all the way to the edge.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-33430607188829914262009-01-13T19:29:00.001-08:002009-01-27T11:56:06.033-08:00

I'm painting figure studies at the Karl Gnass Studio for a few short weeks. Karl gave me some great advise about composition. When deciding where an object should go in relation to the rest of the picture, think about how it "feels" if you leave more space between the elements. What does it "feel" like if you bring it in closer?He said much more, but this 'feeling' thing really got my attention.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-76456171142106450982009-01-06T15:36:00.000-08:002009-01-07T10:44:12.992-08:00

Portrait study, 16x20It's been a while since I've concentrated on painting heads and figures. At some point I'll hit my stride and begin painting with confidence and freedom of expression. I keep hearing and reading; before beginning the painting, figure out what you are trying to say. What's the message? What do you feel? What are you trying to convey? What's the story here? This study

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-18337588155596915412008-12-23T10:13:00.000-08:002011-04-14T20:14:34.492-07:00

"God entered into our world not with the crushing impact of unbearable glory, but in the way of weakness, vulnerability, and need. On a wintry night in an obscure cave, the infant Jesus was a humble, naked, helpless God who allowed us to get close to him." Brennan Manning author of The Ragamuffin Gospel  Wishing all of you love, joy and peace shared with family and friends. Merry Christmas!

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-70064089574045659332008-12-16T09:53:00.000-08:002008-12-16T13:03:54.266-08:00

For two months I've been eagerly awaiting a slide presentation and painting demo to be given by Steve Huston. I don't know how it happens, but every art instructor I've learned from has come at just the right time in my developmental stage. Does it just seem that way? I like to believe that that's how it's happening. Don't burst my bubble, k?The evening before the much anticipated presentation I

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-27094374264140557042008-12-06T16:50:00.000-08:002011-06-30T12:23:29.166-07:00

YESSSSS! I figured a way around my image posting problem. I can upload the image directly from my computer to blogger for the first time. So happy. This is a portrait I started last year around this time, then because of the holidays lost my momentum, then lost interest. I don't know if I'll finish it, but it's the image I chose to experiment with for this uploading snafu. Thanks guys for all

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-42407591461902791162008-11-24T18:53:00.000-08:002008-11-25T09:57:43.932-08:00

I've been tagged thrice. Melinda, Frank and Marian got me. I'm it. I had to ask my family for unusual things about me. Opinions and memories abounded. 1. My mom said  "You eat your fingers". Excuse her charming take on English. She means I bite my nails (but only during times of extreme duress. Or mild anxiety, excitement, boredom or when I can't get the Thalo blue out from under there).2. My dad

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-34782067826675655042008-11-21T10:01:00.000-08:002008-11-22T10:39:43.341-08:00

There's a hill in my town that the locals call Parker Mountain. Anyone with a dirt bike or a horse makes the treacherous climb to the top at least once. I've done it a couple of times on my ATV (all terrain vehicle).This painting is a little piece of the top of Parker Mountain.  It's currently covered in Rabbitbrush and Buckwheat that is in bloom. Our version of Fall color.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-12023629679394939462008-11-08T15:13:00.000-08:002008-11-08T15:39:12.712-08:00

colonial soldier, costumed figure study, 16x20magenta silk, costumed figure study, 12x16Discovered a new fine art studio in Pasadena, called 3Kicks. They have some really exceptional artists teaching there, one of which is Gary Meyer. I attended his brief, weekend workshop. Felt so very good to paint a figure again. It's been a long time.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-8258398327839354322008-10-27T09:39:00.000-07:002008-10-27T17:08:59.709-07:00

“No More In A Moment,” 12” x 12”, Oil on panel, by Eric MerrellI recently had the pleasure of studying plein air painting with Eric Merrell. Also had the privilege of visiting his studio and viewing his amazing landscape paintings in person. Through Eric's website I learned about Hensche's theories that stem from what Monet started. One of my lessons was painting from color blocks outdoors, to

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-56158018927499931082008-10-14T09:03:00.000-07:002008-10-14T14:27:50.366-07:00

Last Sunday I attended a California Art Club paint-out. The event was held to support the renovation of a once beautiful but now crumbling 1920s movie theater called The Rialto located in South Pasadena. That evening, in the Rialto, I watched the sneak preview of Local Color. The director, George Gallo, was there to say a few words about his film before the screening. Gallo and his business

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-45290422242498541712008-09-30T17:03:00.000-07:002008-09-30T17:22:31.069-07:00

Timing myself for an upcoming quick-draw event. Have to make certain these look like pomegranates in under an hour.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-80873093003439855672008-09-15T21:58:00.000-07:002008-09-16T21:00:09.508-07:00

8x10 o/c Did you guys see last night's moon?!! It was amazing! I was out for a walk when suddenly I saw this huge amber orb peeking out from behind the foothills. I cut my walk short and ran home to get my paint box and car. Sitting in the car, I painted my first nocturne.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-64165859372993195582008-08-26T10:53:00.000-07:002008-08-26T12:14:50.764-07:00

canoes by lakeside, 5x7" o/c. When I was setting up to paint these rental canoes, a smiling couple came and rowed away in the one canoe that made the composition so dazzling to me. I wanted to scream, but I restrained myself. poplar trunks, 5x7" o/c.As the sun was setting and the mosquitoes were dining (on my legs) I caught this pattern of light and shadow on the grassy hill.A quick critique of

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-16407700704077556162008-08-17T23:52:00.000-07:002008-08-18T00:05:56.198-07:00

Got my reading material, got my sunblock, got my plein air gear.I'll be back in a week!

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-36923483982291186052008-08-11T10:53:00.000-07:002008-08-11T11:29:21.878-07:00

rocks in surf, 4x6" o/cThis is the most I've enjoyed p.a. painting so far. I had to paint really fast because things were in constant motion. All I could do was get down an impression of the subject. No time to fuss.surf fishing, 4x6" o/cIf you don't live close to the coast you might be under the impression that 'surf fishing' is done while riding waves on a surf board. But, no. You just stand on

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-32558473256983649252008-08-07T13:12:00.000-07:002008-08-07T13:33:11.291-07:00

6x8" o/cThird bird... we can start calling it a series now.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-72307524699305436042008-07-28T13:47:00.000-07:002008-07-28T14:21:16.854-07:00

12x12" oil/canvas.Last bird I posted merely touched cadmium red. This one seems to have fed on it from birth. Detail. click on image to enlarge.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-32032762582785450062008-07-25T21:09:00.001-07:002008-07-25T22:24:02.339-07:00

Finally! Somebody noticed me. Thank you Mr. Lobenberg! I kept seeing this award bounce around from art blog to art blog. Yet I remained Arte y Picoless. But no more!Arte y Pico is a blog from Uruguay who's blogger has come up with this award. It is being passed from blog to blog and is a nice way of telling a fellow artist that you like their work. Arte y Pico, loosely translated from Spanish to

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-32238916940429294312008-07-21T10:23:00.000-07:002008-07-21T10:42:36.617-07:00

6"X8" oil on canvasI had a baby dove in my studio for a while. Until it flew onto my palette and dipped it's tail feathers in cadmium red. He was promptly evicted. You have to behave when you're in my studio, no matter how cute you are.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-1581631368195824292008-07-16T10:41:00.000-07:002008-07-16T10:46:39.193-07:00

14"x11"This is my son Nicholas. He's too cool for words. I've said too much already.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-82293825432510698422008-07-14T14:41:00.000-07:002008-07-14T16:57:55.784-07:00

11"x14"Twins, Dominic and Nathaniel Fierro, born on Christmas day, 2007. These delightful (and extraordinarily handsome) boys belong to my cousin Natalie.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-3650262134695737652008-07-01T10:01:00.000-07:002008-07-01T10:11:17.866-07:00

18"x 24"Is it just me, or does this 'girl' have some attitude.Maybe I'm spending too much time alone. I'm beginning to assign human traits to flowers.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-5776694167340225432008-06-30T09:43:00.000-07:002011-06-28T19:19:32.020-07:00

I'm currently obsessed with artichoke blossoms. They lose that blue glow under incandescent lights. Looks more violet. Does everyone know that Robert Rauschenberg died last Monday? While painting this I listened to the Charlie Rose/Rauschenberg interview on utube. That episode is shown together with the Chuck Close interview. Both extremely interesting. 

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-61109630322855546432008-06-26T15:17:00.000-07:002008-06-26T15:46:14.113-07:00

11x14 plein air study. I planted artichokes in my backyard two years ago. If left on their stalks they become striking blooms that glow in a magnificent purple/ blue. Edible and ornamental. While painting this, a hummingbird made it clear that I was in his territory.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-87059070610872705012008-06-17T20:49:00.000-07:002008-06-17T21:12:03.744-07:00

8"x10"I set this up outside in the shade and painted for about an hour. I also photographed the subject so that I could continue painting inside. Once in the studio, it was a real struggle to keep that plein air look. I'm sure I lost quite a bit of it. I wish I could have experimented a little more, but the rabbit wouldn't keep fresh in this ninety degree weather. Everything is so much more

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-18631926767305564842008-06-15T21:08:00.000-07:002008-06-16T09:23:25.819-07:00

Not a painting, but I wanted to share this. My Yorkie, Cosmo, caught a rabbit in the vegetable garden this weekend. I don't think he gets the 'go for the jugular' concept. Maybe when you're hunting prey as big as yourself, you strike wherever you can.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-70423264006278650232008-06-13T22:40:00.000-07:002008-06-13T22:49:49.771-07:00

6"x 8". Super quick study. Wanted to catch the sunset light on the hills. I blinked and the orange glow was gone.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-57257928404754756322008-06-05T21:21:00.000-07:002008-06-05T22:02:01.117-07:00

4"x 6" oilA couple of blocks from my house there's an old cemetery. I call it the cowboy cemetery, because it's very rugged. There are no manicured lawns or large shade trees. Some of the grave markers are from the 1800's. It's the perfect place for me to experiment with plein air painting. This is a quick sketch of the entrance.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-59634764766306565362008-05-27T14:19:00.000-07:002008-05-27T15:49:23.758-07:00

Spent Monday at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Must do this from time to time to recharge the creative battery. I was thrilled to come across this magnificent figure painting by Thomas Eakins. Love the drama and luminous flesh tones. Excellent.Wrestlers, 1899This portrait by Alberto Giacometti made me stop in my tracks. Technically speaking, it isn't nearly as impressive as the Eakins, yet

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-45811957391255216102008-05-19T13:57:00.000-07:002008-05-19T14:25:59.050-07:00

8x10 plein aire studyI managed one quick little study while in Oregon. At one point I handed my brushes to Tim Solliday who made some wild gestures toward my canvas, like Zorro marking a villain; WHOOSH, WHOOSH, WHOOSH! Then dashed off leaving my canvas looking better.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-26443761077411346702008-05-12T15:06:00.000-07:002010-08-18T21:40:41.812-07:00

Last week I attended a five day artist's conference at the box R ranch. It was well worth the 1,400 mile roundtrip drive to Ashland Oregon. The artists teaching workshops were Chris Hopkins, Frank Ordaz, Dennis Lewis and Tim Solliday. This conference was specifically targeted for Christians who paint and want to create fine art to impact our culture in a positive way. The ranch sits on over

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-16698439497253148052008-05-01T19:11:00.000-07:002008-05-02T15:17:12.513-07:00

Returned to Santa Barbara this week for an anniversary celebration redux. No emergencies this time, just pleasure. The blurry photo below is of three ladies discussing John Singer Sargent's Perseus at Night. I hung around and overheard that William Merritt Chase painted his canvases black before beginning a portrait. Is that true? His paintings are to the extreme left and right.The SBMA is also

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-68104551652447504852008-04-27T21:24:00.000-07:002008-04-27T22:17:52.429-07:00

emergency roomafter surgeryA week ago me and Steve took off to spend a few days in Santa Barbara to celebrate our anniversary. On the second evening of our trip I had to rush Steve to the hospital with what I thought was food poisoning. After blood tests, an ultrasound and a CAT scan, (from 6:00 pm to 2:00 am in the emergency room) the doctor tells us Steve needs an emergency gall bladder

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-12678737406449796802008-04-10T13:37:00.000-07:002008-04-10T13:48:25.996-07:00

20 minute charcoal sketch on newsprint20 minute charcoal sketch on newsprintcharcoal on newsprintSome of the work I've done in the figure construction class taught by Rick Morris (instructor extraordinaire) at LAAFA.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-59598092992202511042008-03-17T12:48:00.000-07:002008-03-17T14:27:50.165-07:00

The artist's reception at the Crystal Cathedral was a great success and a wonderful experience. The show was kicked off with a brief speech by Robert Schuller the pastor of the Crystal Cathedral and world renown motivational speaker. Quite an honor.While there, I mentioned to the coordinator of events, Jim, that the welcoming center building (where the exhibit is) reminds me of a mini Getty

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-28680899725429466782008-03-03T14:53:00.000-08:002011-06-28T14:33:35.509-07:00

Knowing, detail International Tour Premier at the Crystal Cathedral Welcoming Center Garden Grove, California Opening: March 14 - April 20 Everyone is invited to the artist's reception on March 15th, from 4:00 to 6:30 pm. There is no charge for admission and the event is catered. I will be there, along with many of the very accomplished artists in the show. There will be ninety one pieces

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-6967000136153041342008-02-26T08:14:00.000-08:002008-02-26T09:34:46.888-08:00

Sam Francis, Base Mural I, 1956R. Diebenkorn, Berkley #24, 1954V. Kandinsky, Heavy Circles, 1927Last Saturday I visited the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, California. I went there in search of inspiration. Lately I've been feeling like there has to be more to painting than faithfully copying what I see in front of me. I think we need to learn accurate representation when we are learning to draw

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-76508611756440337242008-02-18T23:52:00.000-08:002008-02-19T11:22:43.618-08:00

I looked for Ralph on Sunday and found him in front of the gas station having a bite to eat. We sat and talked awhile and I found out that he wanted a better pillow. I said I'd drop one off at his 'camp'.At home I grabbed a pillow, the first Ralph portrait and reading glasses. When I got to Ralph's spot he was waiting for me. He put on the reading glasses and looked over his portrait. He said, "

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-88071073173981081092008-02-16T16:27:00.001-08:002008-02-16T16:47:31.802-08:00

oil on canvas, 16x20"A little departure from the norm. Don't be alarmed, this could be just temporary. Checked on Ralph recently. His 'camp' is still intact. Neighbors have seen him at the local restaurants and gas stations. I don't know how much I'll be able to paint in the coming weeks. I've enrolled in three new classes at L.A.A.F.A.. It all depends on how much homework I get.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-40355990805531776122008-02-11T11:10:00.000-08:002008-02-11T11:19:35.503-08:00

6x8" oil on canvas boardExperimenting with different techniques. Keeping the canvas at arm's length to encourage loose strokes and avoid details. Loading the brush with plenty of paint. Mixing the colors directly on the canvas.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-4859719002516411722008-02-07T22:26:00.000-08:002008-02-07T22:48:05.542-08:00

oil on canvas, 11X14"Experimenting with landscape... not my forte. The flesh tones photographed lighter and warmer than I painted them. I'm still debating if this is finished.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-6263124743375931062008-02-02T11:10:00.000-08:002009-08-21T17:22:32.338-07:00

I brought home a homeless man on Wednesday. Wait, let me explain.While driving, I spotted him crossing the street. His white beard caught my attention. I thought, 'that would be a terrific character to paint'. I pulled over and watched him while mustering up the courage to approach him. What a beautiful white beard.Ralph is 78 yrs old. He told me all about himself while I sat with him and took

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-40218785752685347762008-01-28T09:44:00.001-08:002008-01-28T11:31:32.683-08:00

My birthday was last week. I spent it in a NyQuil induced stupor, nearly comatose in bed. During my cold and flu week, I made a couple of futile attempts to paint, but have nothing to show for it. When I awoke on Saturday the 26th I knew instantly that the germ had run it's course. We took off for a day in Santa Monica to glut ourselves on fine art at the 13th annual L. A. Art Show.Many of the

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7163128928820145164.post-76943414958427737662008-01-18T16:23:00.000-08:002008-01-18T16:32:21.560-08:00

60 minute skull study. 6x8" oil on canvas board. The quest for skull mastery continues.

silvinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02392089405662846127noreply@blogger.com23