Reeds and a Stork

Reeds abd a Stork
Reeds and Storks, watercolor, 18 x 24 cm, 7 x 9.5″ on Fabriano 300 gr watercolor paper

We have been mooring in the deep countryside of Friesland, a province of the Netherlands. Reeds, still used for making thatched roofs, line the canals. Among the wildlife are storks, who nest on the tops of trees. Their black tails help make them more visible from a distance. They have even made some special nesting spots for these large birds.

At a Restaurant, painting (ode to Hopper)

at a restuarant  sm
At a Restaurant, acrylics , 57 x 38 cm/ 22.5″ x 15″ on Canson 300#

This is another in my series of paintings inspired by Edward Hopper. This is based on In a New York restaurant. While the general design is Hopper’s, there are many variation of the design and changes to the characters in the set, in addition to a much different painting style and technique. For example, with regard to the characters, the central figure’s face is fully exposed and is an auto retrato. The cloaked figure’s face is showing. There are three red headed figures and a figure behind the revolving door.

Click https://garyjkirkpatrick.com/category/art/hopper-inspired/ to see the other paintings in this series.

Mona + X

My take on two famous portraits. I gave Mona a gaunt look with a square jaw. I interpreted the profile of Sargeant’s fabulous Madam X.

mona + x  sm
Mona + X, acrylics on Canson 300# paper, 70 x 50 cm, 28 x 20″

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Woman with a Pearl Earring

Woman with Pearl Earring
Woman With Pearl Earring, acrylics on Canson 300# paper, 70 x 50 cm, 28 x 20″

Vermeer’s Girl With A Pearl Earring inspired this painting. My reference reminded me of his fabulous and famous piece. However there are major differences. He bathed her face in light, but here it is gently swathed in shadow with highlights produced by the light coming from the side. The background is lighter and more varied than Vermeer’s traditionally dark surface.

Purchase from https://www.saatchiart.com/art/Painting-Woman-with-Pearl-Earring/664581/13533551/view

The description on Saatachi

This captivating painting offers a fresh perspective on Vermeer’s iconic Girl With A Pearl Earring. This piece takes a different approach to light and shadow. Instead of a brightly lit face, the woman’s features are softly veiled in shadow, with delicate highlights that accentuate her beauty.

The artist skillfully employs acrylic on canvas to create a rich and textured surface. The background, lighter and more varied than Vermeer’s traditional dark backdrop, adds depth and dimension to the composition. The woman’s hair is depicted with luxurious detail, showcasing dramatic highlights that catch the eye. She faces opposite, inviting the viewer to contemplate her gaze and inner world.

This striking statement piece will add a touch of elegance and intrigue to any room. Its timeless quality and unique interpretation make it a conversation starter and a cherished addition to your art collection. Bring this compelling artwork into your space and let its beauty captivate you every day.

Lidereses- Live Your Dreams, painting for Spain’s Woman’s Day

The annual Day of the Woman is March 3. In Picanya, a small town on the outskirts of Valencia, the Dones de Picanya (Valencino for The Women of Picanya) organize an annual street art event. My contribution is called Lidereses, Women Leaders, consists of five paintings of women engaged in leadership activities.

When I was young there was little information about potential careers. At that time, women became mothers, teachers or nurses. There were very few doctors, lawyers, scientists, etc. You have to talk to young people, especially girls, about the opportunities that can be their’s. You start with a dream. I want to be this or that. Then you learn about what it takes to become what you want to be.

Lideresas
with Nuria at Dones de Picanya
With Nuria in Picanya. She appears in the lower right painting.

Last year’s contribution, Live Your Dreams, is here https://garyjkirkpatrick.com/live-your-dreams-art-on-the-street-fair-in-valencia/