the Painting Activist

11″ x 14″ oil on masonite
SOLD
See all paintings available for sale.

I spent a short 2 days in New York City this past weekend and collected some terrific urban street scene shots. Although, much to my surprise, it was more challenging to find images that fit into my new social activism theme. I suppose Soho is not the place to find impoverished people mingling among the wealthy shoppers. Of course the streets were infinitely full of eye candy for a painter, and I do plan to have 3 or 4 more pieces from this trip. This first image took priority as I did like the juxtaposition of the street vendors each resting under a pricey cocktail dress. I wonder how close the price tag on one of those dresses is to all of their merchandise put together. Personally, I prefer to buy the $5 scarf from one of these gentlemen, and save the glitzy store for a restroom break.

I’m back in Louisville and finally over a nasty spell of jet lag after my 30 hour return trip from Australia. Now that I’ve readjusted, I’m focusing my attention on my artwork again (a new painting coming very soon!) and my philanthropic interests. Although my latest efforts will be to marry the two. The idea is to shift the theme of my subject matter to previously skin-deep images to narrating, illustrating and addressing the issues tackled by those organizations I chose to work with. That’s just the beginning of this train of thought, but the plan in certainly in its infancy stages so I will give it some time to mature before I go into details. Thoughts and ideas welcome.

Alternatively, on a much broader note, for anyone looking for to find their own way to contribute to someone or something in need, check out www.volunteermatch.org. Just about everything under the sun is covered. You’re sure to find the perfect fit at this do good-er matching making site. And for those of you in the ‘Ville, YPAL is hosting their second “Community Connections” event in October. I attended their spring event which was a huge success. It’s exactly like speed dating for non profit to volunteer, verses lonely heart to lonely heart. Louisville has a myriad of outstanding non profits in need your help and this the perfect opportunity to really dig deep into what some of them are about. I highly recommend it (YPAL and the event).

20″ x 48″ oil on canvas
SOLD
See all paintings available for sale.

My four weeks in Brisbane are quickly coming to a close. I have been fairly productive in intermittently painting in between catering to the kids’ needs. Actually, art and childcare have merged several times and the children have created some beautiful artworks themselves. As for my work, the first painting from this trip was a street scene of Paddington, a charming neighborhood in West Brisbane. Sights to be seen are an eclectic mix of clothing and book stores, cafes, antique malls and stunning view of the city from atop a San Francisco-esque hilltop.

16″ x 20″ oil on masonite
SOLD

My second painting was commissioned by a friend of mine who is property developer. This house is his latest project. The original portion of the house was lifted up on supports and another floor was added below it. It’s in unique neighborhood in that you might see an occasional racehorse and rider trot by passing to and from the nearby racetrack.

My third piece is in the works and will most likely make its debut when I’m back home. Until then I will be soaking up the pilly lillies, aussie hospitality, and outstanding Laska soup!