Visual Language Magazine Contemporary Fine Art Vol 2 No 9 September 2013

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V I S U A L L A N G U A G E 

contemporary fine art 

Artspan . VL 

September Volume 2 No. 9 

Heather Lara 

HeatherLara.com 

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Contemporary Fine Art 

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September 2013 Vol 2 No 9 

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Heather Lara 

Expressions of our Living World 

Southwest Art Magazine, Artistic Excellence 2012 

Third Place, feature in December Issue 

San Diego County Fair, Fine Art Competition 2012 

Best in Show 

First Place Drawing - Color 

Second Place Drawing - Color 

Second Place Drawing - Black & White 

Second Place Pastels 

Honorable Mention Drawing - Black & White 

People’s Choice Award 


Second Place Drawing - Black & White 

Honorable Mention Drawing - Black & White 

Sponsor Award 

Peoples Choice Award 

Orange County Fair, Fine Art Competition 2010 

Division Award 

Second Place Illustration 


San Diego Award 

First Place Drawing - Black & White 

Peoples Choice Award 

Irving Art Association, 8th Annual Wildlife Juried Art 

Competition 2009 

Second Place Award 

Orange County Super Fair, Fine Art Competition 2009 

Second Place Award Pastels 

Third Place Award Illustration 

Honorable Mention Pastels 

Employee Choice Award 

Pastel Society of San Diego, 26th Annual Juried 

Exhibition 2009 

Second Place Award 

Audubon Artists, Inc. 66th Annual Exhibition 2008 

Art Students League of New York Award 

Atlanta Artist’s Center National Juried Exhibition 2007 

Sponsor Merit Award 

RFAL & NMMAS 24th Annual Juried Show 2007 

People’s Choice Award 

Sponsor Recognition Award 

VL Cover Artist 


artspan 


Amy Hillenbrand 

amyhillenbrand.com 


content VL 

Painter’s Keys - Robert Genn 17 

ARTSPAN New Works - 30 

CFAI Colors on My Palette 36 

Nancee Jean Busse and Carmen Beecher 

Read the up close and personal interviews from two 

CFAI.co artists. Find out more about what they use when 

painting and things that are special in their lives. 

Hall Groat II 

Daily Painting in the New Millennium 50 

Hall Groat II covers the topic of daily painting 

tracing it back 32,000 years. Discover the 

differencetoday with the technology age and its 

effects on daily painting. 

VL Studio Visit with UK Wildlife Artist Robbie Graham 58 

Robbie Graham is a UK based artist born in 

West Germany and currently living in 

Tenterden, Kent,UK. 

Artspan Studio Visit with American Wildlife Artist 

Heather Lara 74 

Heather Lara was born and raised in New England 

where she developed an appreciation for nature at 

an early age. She’s lived many places since her 

childhood but now happily resides in Temecula, 

California with her husband, two small daughters 

and too many critters to mention them all. 


VL Studio Visit Terry Lee 92 

Capturing his animals in a moment of time and in all of their 

majestic beauty, his impressionistic style, along with his 

magnificent sense of color, gives new meaning to Africa’s 

spectacular scenery and wildlife. 

Artspan interview Benjamin Cheshire 102 

Enjoy the latest Artspan Interview with 

Wildlife Artist Benjamin Cheshire. 

VL/AOT Studio Visit Pamela Blaies 116 

Pamela is a native Texan. She was born in Irving, raised 

in the Houston area and attended high school in 

Georgetown. After graduating from Baylor University with 

a degree in Business Administration, she was ready to 

spread her wings and experience more. 

VL Studio Visit with Willd Life Artist 

Diane Whitehead 128 

My dream had been to be juried into the Western Masters 

show in Great Falls, Montana and acceptance into prestigious 

juried shows throughout the United States. My dream has 

come to fruition and I continue to dangle my own 

carrot in front of my nose and challenge myself daily. 

Artspan Spotlight Dara Oshin 146 

I begin my process by creating a rock sculpture 

working within the physical limitations of gravity 

while balancing the rocks visually and in space. 


content VL 

WAOW Betty Gates 150 

Betty Russell Gates: Born on an oil lease in Oklahoma in 

1927. Her art career began with John Frank, Frankhoma 

Pottery in Sapulpa, Oklahoma. After a brief time at 

Arkansas A&M, Gates graduated from Art Instruction Inc. 

in commercial art. 

Charles Spinetta Winery and Wildlife Gallery 154 

Wildlife art is an ancient artform shared by all our world’s cultures. We 

preserve this heritage in the modern age. Visit, enjoy a glass of wine, and 

view hundreds of pieces of artwork in the 3,000 square foot gallery. 

ARTSPAN Photographer Pauline Fowler 164 

Zoos are now Arks of huge import for the wildlife of this world. 

I have been to many now over the years, and when I photograph 

the animals within I try to create with the ensuing images a 

rapport with the viewer, something to make them really look. 

CFAI.co Art Challenge “Tropical Days” 172 

Best of Show, Judy Batterson, “Paradise Found” 


Artist of the Day 

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” ― Edgar Degas 

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Aspen S P A C E S 

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email: lelija@lelija.net 

Available from: 

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Breckenridge, CO 

www.artonawhim.com 

(970) 547-8399 

James Ratliff Gallery 

671 State Route 179--The Hillside 

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www.jamesratliffgallery.com 

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Niki Gulley Do 

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uble Page 

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VL 

VISUAL LANGUAGE MAGAZINE 

Contemporary Fine Art 

Visual Language Magazine Staff 

Editorial 

Editor -in-Chief Laurie Pace 

Executive Editor Lisa Kreymborg 

Consulting Editor Nancy Medina 

Consulting Editor Diane Whitehead 

Consulting Editor Debbie Lincoln 

Feature Contributor Robert Genn Painter’s Keys 

CFAI Contributor Kimberly Conrad 

Feature Editor Art Reviews Hall Groat II 

Feature Writer Barry Scharf 

Feature Writer David Darrow 

VL Sponsor ARTSPAN Eric Sparre 

Advertising 

Contact: VisualLanguageMagazine@gmail.com 

Marketing and Development 

Executive Director Business/Management Stacey Hendren 

All Artwork is Copyrighted by the Individual Artists. 

Visual Language Vol 2 No 9 

http://TheresaPaden.com 

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Painter’s Keys 

with Robert Genn 

The cold-easel syndrome 

July 30, 2013 

Dear Artist, 

Robert Genn’s 

Studio Book 

The complaints are so widespread as to suggest there may be an epidemic. While many mention the word 

“obsession,” the malaise takes many different forms. 

Here’s one from yesterday’s email: “I’m compulsively watching art instruction DVDs in place of doing actual 

paintings. I’m obsessed! What can I do” 

Others include, “I spend all my time preparing to work, sharpening pencils, cleaning brushes, etc.” “I’m completely 

occupied with my aquariums and all my fish. They keep breeding.” “I go to the beach every day and 

hang out with girls.” 

It’s called “The cold-easel syndrome” (CES) and it happens sooner or later to most artists. Fact is, these complaints 

and excuses expose a variety of natural human frailties. The examples above indicate fear of failure, 

need for nature’s nourishment, and loneliness. There are lots more. 

Painter’s Keys - Robert Genn 

Afflicted artists need to self-examine. 

In studying my own distracted periods and those of others, I’ve often found one or two minor setbacks that 

have derailed the progress. The overly-sensitive artist may be tripped up by an insignificant rejection or misunderstanding. 

Ambitious projects can bog the artist down. Not-wanted or difficult commissions can block 

the will to work. After such events, CES can fester for months, even years. Unexamined trip-ups can lodge 

invisibly in the subconscious where they are difficult to dig out. 

My advice: Dig them out early. 

Unlike painters, the vast number of workers work for someone else. Self-employed easel-work requires a 

self-directed problem-solving approach and a few self-taught skills. One such skill is “pump priming.” In our 

case--Squeeze out. Get started. Get involved. Make mistakes. Let the work tell you what it needs. Find the 

joy. Fall in love again. 

Best regards, Robert 

PS: PS: “As long as you can start, you are all right. The juice will come.” (Ernest Hemingway) “You don’t have 

to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” (Zig Ziglar) 

Esoterica: “I’m restoring my ‘52 MG.” “I spend most of my time just looking at my sterile work.” “Now that I 

have my new studio, I never go in it.” “Since I won a prize in a Signature show, I don’t feel the need to paint 

anymore.” “I’m a workshop junkie--I only paint at workshops.” “I tape and re-watch episodes of Honey Boo- 

Boo.” “I’m finding my church more fulfilling for the time being.” “My boyfriend is teaching me backgammon.” 


Nathalie Kelley 

nathaliekelleyart.com 


Fine Art Watercolor 

website.com 

nathaliekelleyart.com 



Dyan Newton 

Colors of Life 

DyanNewtoncom 

Visit my website for workshops and class schedules. 

Val Travers 

valerietravers.artspan.com 


Carol Smidt 

Caroljosmidt.com 


Richard Levine 

Pastel Painter - Landscape and Figurative 

www.richardlevine.net 

contact: artisanrichard@gmail.com 


24 | VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com 

Jodi And

erson 


Nancy Medina Fine Art 

Put a little joy in your brush and join award winning artist Nancy Medina for a flower painting 

workshop. Named one of today’s best floral and botanical artists by American Art Collector, 

Nancy is an instructor for the Dallas Arboretum whose paintings are collected around the 

world. Nancy teaches a loose, bright technique, and shares all her favorite tips and shortcuts 

for making flower paintings sing with color. Upcoming workshops include: 

Visit Nancy’s workshop page to sign up today! 

http://nancymedina.fineartstudioonline.com/page/1929/workshops 

Flower Painting Workshops 

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Tennessee . Florida . San Diego 

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Nancy Medina Rose of Sharon and Hydrangeas 16X20

Breakfast Nook Hydrangeas and Oranges 16 X 20 Oil 



Rare Gallery Fine Art 

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Laurie Justus Pace 

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artspan 

Newest Works 

Julie Plasketes 

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Sarah-Lou Newman 

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Cathy Berg 

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Olive Trees 

Eric Bodtker 

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| 35

CFAI.co Colors On My Palette 

Nancee Jean Busse 

http://www.nanceejean.com 

http://www.cfai.co/colors-on-my-palette/nancee-jean-busse 

When did you realize you loved art and wanted to be ‘an artist’ 

I don’t remember a time, EVER, when I wasn’t an artist! Some 

of my first memories were of drawing and coloring. When I was 

in elementary school in Peoria, Illinois, we had art class only once 

a week. I would get SO overwrought with anticipation before art 

class my hands would shake. Once I got so excited waiting for 

the time to arrive, I couldn’t stay in my desk and was apparently 

jumping around and being disruptive. (me!) My punishment was, 

oh no!, that I had to skip art class that week. Now, I get to paint 

whenever I want (well, almost). My studio is full of wonderful 

paints and brushes and canvases and light and color and all of the 

things that make my art sing. 

Who has been the greatest influence from your past to mentor you to this career 

My other “vice,” besides painting, is reading. My father was an avid reader as well, and filled my childhood 

home with all kinds of books. My earliest influence was the illustrations I pored over in those books. 

We had a fabulous copy of The Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám, packed with vibrant, rich vellum color plates. 

I loved the combination of pure primary color and realistic subject matter elaborated with eastern decorative 

themes. We had a copy of a turn-of-the-century period novel titled “A Mouse Is Born,” illustrated 

by Aubrey Beardsley. His Art Nouveau blackline illustrations were inspirational. I loved the detail, the 

contrast, and the fact that he never broke up a mass! We also had several huge old leather and gilt books 

illustrated by Gustav Doré, Don Quixote, Paradise Lost, The Bible Gallery, Fontaine’s Fables, and more. 

Doré’s ability to render realistic detail and use of line were a HUGE influence!! And the mood he could 

set!!!... I could go on and on about how those book illustrations rang bells and blew whistles for me! 

Who is your mentor today, or another artist you admire and why 

About 12 years ago, after a long career of illustrating, I took a pastel painting class at our local art center. 

My teacher was Bev Lee, an incredible portrait artist (and now my dear friend). Bev helped me to get out 

of my illustrator’s headset and begin to think more like a painter. (I still have lots of work to do there.) 

Most of my illustrations were blackline; very graphic and tight, with no color information. I had to start at 

square one with color and color theory. Bev helped me to begin the process of loosening up and lightening 

up. I was inspired to begin painting because I live in one of the most beautiful spots in the world: western 

Colorado. I wanted to paint that beauty; as much of it as possible. Because of that, I have been inspired by 

painters of the American West: from Charles Russell to Jill Soukup, with a myriad of others in between. 

Bill Anton, Clyde Aspevig, G Russell Case, Ralph Oberg, Daniel Smith, Jim Wilcox... and the many other 

painters of the American West who successfully strive to communicate the beauty of this incredible place 

we are privileged to live in. 

Who would you love to interview 

I would like to visit with one of the great illustrators, like Maxfield Parrish or Arthur Rackham or Kaye 

Neilson. I deeply admire their ability to render the landscapes of their imaginations with such a brilliantly 

realistic approach. 

Read more at http://www.cfai.co/colors-on-my-palette/nancee-jean-busse/ 


Read more at http://www.cfai.co/colors-on-my-palette/nancee-jean-busse/ 


CFAI.co Colors On My Palette 

Carmen Beecher 

http://www.carmenbeecher.com 

http://www.cfai.co/colors-on-my-palette/carmen-beecher 

When did you realize you loved art and wanted to be ‘an artist’ 

When I got my first crayon. I can think back to my childhood and still 

smell what a new box of crayons smelled like. 

Who has been the greatest influence from your past to mentor you to 

this career 

Even though my mother died when I was ten, the last Christmas gift she 

ever bought me was an easel. It was a child’s easel, but I had it until I moved 

away from home. She set me on my creative path. 

Who is your mentor today, or another artist you admire and why 

Richard Schmid is an absolute master. I study his book “Alla Prima, or Everything I Know About Painting,” 

constantly. He has that elusive ability to paint impressionistically yet make things look very real. I also love the 

work of Qiang Huang. He is a wonderful instructor with a gentle spirit and a scientific mind. He provides a 

wealth of information and creates vibrant paintings that just knock me out. 

What is your favorite surface to paint on Describe it if you make it yourself. 

I like Panelli Telati canvas panels, as well as Raymar panels. For large paintings, linen is wonderful. 

What brand of paints do you use 

I use mostly Winsor Newton and Gamblin paints. 

Do you have a favorite color palette 

Yes: Titanium White, Lemon Yellow, Cad Yellow Medium, Yellow Ochre, Cad Orange, Cad Red Light, Alizarin 

Crimson, French Ultramarine, Cerulean Blue, Burnt Sienna, Sap Green, Viridian. It varies sometimes, but not 

much. 

What is your favorite color in your closet 

A coral color, sort of the color of a Spoonbill. 

What subject appears the most in your paintings and why 

The ocean; I live across the street from it, and I love painting it. It changes every day in movement, shapes and 

color. Today it is a cool, misty gray with big surf. 

How often do you paint How many hours a week 

I paint three or four days a week, two to four hours a day. I spend way too much time on the computer, but if I 

am painting to sell, that is a necessity. 

How would you like to be remembered 

As a good person, then as an accomplished artist. 

Read more at http://www.cfai.co/colors-on-my-palette/carmen-beecher 


Read more at http://www.cfai.co/colors-on-my-palette/carmen-beecher 


Daily Pain 

http://www.dailypainters.com/artists/artist_gallery/527/Lori-McNamara 

DailyPainters.com 


ters 


Sheila Bledsoe 

Realistic Wildlife, Landscape and Floral Fine Art 

A Mother’s Love 14 x 20 Watercolor 

“I traveled to Africa last spring and took a photo of these two elephants. They are a 

mother and daughter. It just seemed so sweet I had to paint it.” Sheila Bledsoe 


SheilaBledsoe.com

Shirley Anderson Art 

Painting Landscapes and Florals in Pastel 

Maryland Artist 

Lakeside by Shirley Anderson 

shirleyandersonart.com 

email: sranderson0930@sbcglobal.net 


Marti Leroux 

MartiArtStudio.com 


Linda McCoy 

lindamccoyart.blogspot.com 

Commissions Welcome. 

Landscapes, Figurative and Still Life 


www.cfai.co/hallgroat 

http://www.nyartguide.net/groatii/ 

HallGroat.com 


Pocket watch with Lemon & Creamer 11x14 in. Original Oil on canvas Hall Groat II 

HallGroat.com 

American Fine Artist 

Hall Groat II 


David R. Darrow 

so many things to paint. so little time. 

Man of Renewal 

Hoping 

Ashton’s Morning 


Kenyan Daughter 

The Wanderer

www.DaveThePaintingGuy.com 

facebook.com/davethepaintingguy 

Portrait of Anne Gillum 

Juno 

David R. Darrow 

Realistic Impressionism 

Accepting Commissions 

david@darrowart.com 

www.DarrowArt.com 

Subscribe to Private Mailing List: 

Etta 

www.DarrowArt.com/list/ 

VisualLanguageMagazine.com - VL Magazine | 49 

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VL Hall Groat II 

Daily Painting in the New Millennium 

By Hall Groat II, 

Professor and Chairperson, 

Art and Design Department, Broome Community College 

___________________________________ 

Hall Groat II Distant Learning Painting School, DVD Instruction Series 

http://www.HallGroat.com 

The tradition of “daily painting” began long before modern day oil paint was invented, and many 

speculate that the first paintings were created 32,000 years ago within the cave walls of Grotte 

Chauvet in France. These early paintings depicted men hunting animals and were conceived 

using natural Red ochre pigments that were dug from the earth. Painting as an expressive art 

medium has been embraced and revered by millions of people throughout the centuries as a 

form of visual communication intended to be physically experienced. If the theatrical culture of 

Ancient Greece only knew that we modern day people now watch drama on televisions, 

computers and Ipods, what would they say In what ways have these new digital mediums 

altered the expressive nature and message of traditional theatre 

The new millennium has brought with it an exponential growth in cutting edge Internet 

technologies, such as the blog, message board and video sharing web sites that have required 

people to learn how to communicate with one another in new and challenging ways. American 

artist, Duane Keiser, in 2004 was one of the first to chronicle the tradition of “daily painting” and 

the creative process within the context of the blogosphere for people to experience and learn 

from globally. This innovation inspired thousands of other artists to do the same, which has lead 

to the emergence of what may be deemed as a cyberspace culture of artists that embrace fine 

art painting. 

What is daily painting For many artists it is the discipline of completing a single painting each 

day in solitude, away from the confusion of life. The painter must designate a time daily time to 

complete the painting, and often is unable to wait for that ideal moment of inspiration. It’s an 

essential time each day that the painter both embraces and savors. Many regard it as a 

meditative “expression of the moment” and enlightenment. Others regard the completion of the 

painting in a single session as a means of chronicling their spiritual diary. The ensō. Then there 

are those who perceive it as an artistic obsession or welcomed daily struggle that forces them to 

complete a painting to be placed into a virtual exhibition. Why does this motivate artists There 

exist various reasons, and perhaps the desire to be socially interconnected with like-minded 

artists and art connoisseurs from diverse backgrounds and cultures is one rationale. Indeed, the 

daily painter craves admiration for their work, to mature as an artist through honing their skills, 

and maybe even to learn from studying and reading about other’s paintings archived on blogs. 


It is undeniable that there exists a new and refreshing sense of ethos among painters. The art 

museum, gallery, and critic are of less concern to the painter who independently exhibits their 

work daily to a global audience, for it is the digital facsimile of the painting that is free to speak in 

diverse tongues—cross-culturally on its own, independent of an overarching political machine, as 

in a gallery or a museum. Painters are now able to discuss their work with others residing clear 

across the world, and have developed extensive e-mail lists that enable them to both expose 

and teach people to art through sharing images and their personal written commentaries on a 

regular basis. Quite often the people who receive the daily images are geographically or socially 

marginalized, and have never been granted the opportunity to learn about art or cross paths with 

an artist. This also holds true for the beginning artist in many instances, especially the ones who 

reside within countries that impose restrictions on the public exhibition of art. 

The painting and the creative act are being digitized and presented together as one to divergent 

cultures. May it be that creativity is now being channeled into a more holistic expressive art form 

that has been set free The modern day “blog,” coupled with video sharing technologies has 

broadened the tradition of painting into a new communicative virtual reality world. Cyberspace is 

rapidly evolving and the potential social ramifications are not completely understood. What we do 

know however is that artists are strategically working together globally to use these new technologies 

in a manner that is promoting constructive dialogue about art and life. The conversations 

about paintings are “building new bridges through breaking boundaries,” and perhaps these dialogues 

will inspire others to join in the mystical healing nature of painting. 

At this point there exist several on-line organizations that collectively exhibit the work by daily 

painters, and also serve as platforms for discussion. These include, Dailypainters, The Artist 

Network Forum, Daily Artist, Daily Painters Community, Daily Painter’s Guild and Daily 

Paintworks. Dailypainters, the largest of these organizations, was the first to curate an exhibition 

revolving around a central theme. Artists painted and wrote about their perceptions of the natural 

environment, and many were instrumental in eliciting meaningful global discussion regarding the 

current state of the earth. 

The paintings being produced by the artists affiliated with these networks are prolific, reflecting 

the current pluralistic tone of the art world. The predominant mood of expression, however, is 

rooted in ala-prima representational painting that strives to reveal the extraordinary within ordinary 

daily life. The work is often both humble in nature and scale, reflecting the genuine perception 

of the artist. Aesthetics, along mastery of craft and truth of form and idea are tenets that daily 

painters seem to embrace. The work certainly does not echo the shortsighted and often disingenuous 

nature of contemporary shock and sensationalist art that is directed towards provoking 

political debate. 

It is without question that the daily painting Internet phenomenon or “social movement” has 

touched the lives of thousands internationally, and is currently challenging the viewpoints of conventional 

artistic establishments. It is both liberating the painter and democratizing the manner in 

which art is exhibited and being deemed critically noteworthy. A global view of fine art painting is 

emerging at a time in history when we must reevaluate the infrastructures of our societies. 

Perhaps, what Albert Boime, Art Historian, University of California, Los Angeles expresses is now 

emerging Boime states, “An understanding of imagery will show that we are not yet too fallen 

and depraved to be able to reform the world in the name of suffering humanity 

http://www.HallGroat.com 


Gail Faulkner Watercolors 

www.gailfaulknerstudio.com 



International Exhibits 

Benjamin Cheshire 


BenCheshireArt.com

KAZUKO STERN 

WAOW Associate Member 

Musicians at Central Park Oil 24 x 36 

www.kazukostern.com 


Dyan Newton 

Colors of Life 

DyanNewton.com 


DyanNewton.com 

Visit my website for workshops and class schedules. 


VL 

Studio Visit Wildlife Artist 

Robbie Graham 

58 Robbiegrahamart.co.uk 

| VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

http://www.marineartsgallery.com/ 

VisualLanguageMagazine.com Robbiegrahamart.co.uk 

- VL Magazine | 59

VL 


Robbie Graham 

Robbie Graham is a UK based artist born in West Germany and currently 

living in Tenterden, Kent,UK. Robbie served in the R.A.F before joining 

Kent Police, where he served for twenty two years. Robbie left the police 

this year to follow his passion to create his photographic like paintings 

and at the same time, support a number of conservation programs. 

Robbie had an extremely interesting career as a police officer, having 

served his last eight years as a detective chief inspector. He was the 

borough commander at Maidstone, the county town of Kent. Robbie said, 

‘It was a great place to work and as the commander of the station I had 

the privilege of hanging lots of my wildlife paintings all over the building. 

It made the station bright and very different from the norm!” Robbie also 

spent five years as the Head of Kent Special Branch where he was responsible 

for all counter terrorism operations across the county of Kent. 

Robbie said ‘I found this time in career the most challenging.’ In 2009 

Robbie was selected to undertake a secondment in South Australia for 

three months. There he was sworn in as an uniformed Australian police 

chief inspector and headed up operations in Port Adelaide. 

Robbie said ‘I really enjoyed my time in Australia, having never been 

there before. It also gave me a wonderful operation to explore the wonderful 

wildlife there in my down time’. 

Whist in the police, Robbie held a number of fund raising solo exhibitions 

where he raised much needed funds for Children Victims Of Crime and 

big cat conservation programs. 

Robbie began painting approximately 10 years ago and since then his 

work has become so popular that he decided to ‘make the leap’ from 

police officer to professional wildlife artist. His work can now be seen in 

collections world wild. He is a signature member of Arts For Conservation 

and also a featured artist for Daler Rowney, one of the world’s largest art 

material suppliers . His art work ‘ Always Alert’ is used by Daler Rowney 

for their header boards displaying their designer gouache range. 

Robbiegrahamart.co.uk 




VL 


Robbie Graham 

PHOTO ‘ Always Alert’ this painting can be seen in most art material suppliers across the world above 

the Daler Rowney Designer range . 12 x 7 inches, gouache on mount board. ( Private Collection ). 





VL 


Robbie Graham 

PHOTO ‘ The Connection’ Gouache on mount board . Gouache on board. 14 x 22 inches. (Private 

Collection) 

This painting was completed by Robbie after visiting a zoo in Europe. Robbie said, ‘I recognize the 

need for well kept zoo’s where animals can flourish in safety and remain protected, but on this occasion 

I felt extremely sorry for this wonderful tiger and decided then and there to paint him. In this 

piece I wanted to capture the almost helplessness of this magnificent creature.’ 



Robbie has travelled the world to secure good reference material. Robbie said 

‘I also enjoy photographing wildlife and building my knowledge in relation to 

conservation issues, I have a particular interest in the big cats, as can be seen in 

many of my paintings!’ 

PHOTO . ‘Watching’ Goauche on board. 16 x 30 inches. 

Robbie is self taught and extremely passionate about conservation. He has provided a number of 

originals to fund raising charities in order to support them. Robbie said ‘I am always inspired by the 

many wonderful wildlife artists across the world. Art to me is about creating something that ‘connects ‘ 

with the viewer and seeks to make them stand back and really appreciate the wonderful creatures we 

are all so privileged to share this world with. Capturing the true spirit of nature is so important to me. I will 

always make the eyes the focal point in many of my paintings’. 



VL 

Robbie Graham 

PHOTO ‘Intensity’ Painted in gouache on mountboard. (20x30 inches) 



Robbie’s work has been used to promote conservation programs 

such as Wild Cats World in Africa and his art can also 

be seen in most art suppliers across the world, having been 

selected as the header board for Daler Rowneys designer 

gouache range. 

PHOTO ‘ Into The Light’ Acrylic on masonite. (18 x 24 inches) 

Robbie says, ‘My art is not about the application of paint , 

It’s about making a connection between the viewer and the 

subject of the painting’. I started using gouache having 

been inspired by Cark Brender’s a true master of wildlife art. 

Robbie’s work can be seen by visiting 

www.robbiegrahamart.co.uk 

or Robbiegrahamart on Face Book or Twitter. 



Kelley MacDonald 

Kelleymacdonalddailypaint.blogspot.com 


Vickie Guthrie 

vickieguthrie.com 


Theresa Paden Fine Art 

theresapaden.com 


Theresa Paden Fine Art 

theresapaden.com 


Susan Ketcham, PSA 

Signature Member of the Pastel Society of America 


SusanKetcham.com

Paintings in Pastel 

“I want my paintings to remind you that beauty often resides in the tiniest corners and in the simplest 

of circumstances. I want you to experience a moment of wonder that so simple an object as a 

pudding cup, a bird’s nest, a rusty bucket of daffodils, or an old tabletop covered with apples and 

grapes can be beautiful. For me, painting is actually seeing what I am looking at, knowing it intimately. 

To capture the wetness of an eye, the distortion of glass, reflections in brass, the fragility of an Iris, 

the down of a feather is just a wonderful way to really see the world.” 


SusanKetcham.com

VL 

Solitude 8x10 


HeatherLara.com

artspan 

Heather Lara - Wildlife Artist 


HeatherLara.com

VL 

Heather Lara 



artspan 



VL 

Heather Lara 

Heather Lara was born and raised in New England where she developed an 

appreciation for nature at an early age. She’s lived many places since her 

childhood but now happily resides in Temecula, California with her husband, 

two small daughters and too many critters to mention them all. 

A volunteer job with the Animal Department at the Living Desert in Palm Desert 

introduced her to a career as a serious artist. 

Kiss of Death 8 x 12 

“When I was hired by the Graphics Department full time. I expanded my resume 

by working freelance for the American Wilderness Experience, helping them 

open their zoo from the ground up by creating many of the exhibit graphics. 

When we moved to Argentina it was a sharp detour from my rising career path 

but I spent my time down there collecting dogs and honing my craft - I even had 

my first solo exhibition at the Centro Cultural Fisherton. 

Though I don’t have an art degree, the Scientific Illustration classes I attended 

at the University of California at Santa Cruz helped me develop the techniques I 

use now and my Biology Degree has given me the necessary knowledge of form 

and structure to create the extremely lifelike depictions of my subjects. 

My painstaking attention to detail has created a portfolio rich in the diversity of 

life, from landscapes and portraits in pastel and watercolor to meticulous wildlife 

scenes in colored pencil. But what I’m sharing with you here is my love of 

scratchboard, a unique and challenging medium that really lets me showcase my 

attention to minute detail. I believe that all of nature has beauty, even the 

smallest insect, and I hope to share this with others through my art.” 



artspan 

A Glimpse of the Past 8 x 10 



VL 

Heather Lara 



Izu 3 8 x 10

artspan 

Where did you study art Though I have no Art degree, I’ve gathered education from 

a number of sources. I went to the University of California, Santa Cruz as an Art major 

and came out with a BA in Biology instead. The art program was a little creepy for a 17 

year old kid away from home for the first time. The few classes I took involved a lot of 

nude models - picture not-so-pretty hippies and homeless people, if you’ve ever been to 

Santa Cruz you know what I mean! I did find some graduate courses in Science Illustration 

that they let me take as an undergrad and it was here that I really learned interesting 

techniques like scratchboard, carbon dust on cronaflex and stipple. These courses taught 

attention to detail, following fur patterns, muscle structure, skeletal structure down to the 

tiniest biological detail and it seemed to fit in with my degree. Over the years I’ve just practiced 

my art and never shied away from new things. I’m a bit of a hoarder when it comes 

to art supplies, well who am I kidding - I’m really one major tragedy away from being on the 

show but I have a very supportive husband that keeps me reigned in and organized. 

If I read about a new art technique or medium I have to go out and buy ALL the supplies 

for it and try it, I teach myself through trial and error. Sculpture, woodworking, stained 

glass, pastels, you name it I have it in my over packed studio and I love it all. I read 

every art magazine I can get my hands on and I ask a lot of questions from artists that 

inspire me, some have ignored me but others have been an invaluable part of my 

education, it never hurts to ask but it can really pay off.   

How would you describe your style Obsessive compulsive neurotically focused on 

detail. I’ve tried to lighten up, loosen up, let go and sketch out something free and quick 

but I always end up going back in again and again until its hours later and looking like a 

photograph. I have great respect for artists who can take a subject and create something 

artistic and interesting from it and yet looks nothing like real life. I just draw what I see.   

What is the one thing most people don’t know about you Everybody knows 

everything about me - I’m a consummate over-sharer. OK ... dolls and clowns 

freak me out. 

Why do you paint animals I’ve always loved animals since I can remember. 

Anything-creepy crawly, scurrying, running or slithering I liked to pick it up and play with 

it. My sister received a “How to Draw Animals” book when we were in grade school and 

somehow it ended up in my room and I copied every page. I loved it! I did my first solo 

art show in the library of Kelly Lane Elementary school (all of my pictures were done with 

crayon) and I’ve been drawing ever since. I’m the kind of artist that really has to connect 

with my subject - it can’t just be a picture in book for me. When I travel I try to visit a zoo or 

animal sanctuary in whatever city or country I’m in and I spend a lot of time photographing 

particular animals that I make a connection with. I contact the animal keepers where I can 

and get the background story for the animal and I feel like it helps me get that extra little 

bit of inspiration I need. If I do a pet portrait -which is rare - I like to meet the animal and 

take my own photos if possible. I’ve learned from experience what I need to do to create a 

magical piece of art, it’s not always possible of course but every once in a while the stars 

align and you even surprise yourself.  



VL 

Heather Lara 

Narmada 3 10 x 10 



artspan 

Why Scratchboard I’m a detail-oriented artist. I’ve tried to loosen up and I find myself going 

back to the picture again and again to add this little detail, this little fluff of hair, this little highlight. 

Scratchboard is one of those mediums where you have to fill your board with lines, there are no 

short cuts. I started like most artists just drawing with pencil and I found I could never keep the 

tip sharp enough for the detail I wanted. I graduated to mechanical pens and found myself going 

smaller and smaller until I was struggling with a 00000 pen tip (I was never very good at cleaning 

it. Scratchboard gave me the surface and tools to finally get that detail I was striving for. I’ve dabbled 

in other mediums as well but I particularly love pastels. They speak to my messy side and I 

think working with all the different colors and blending and highlighting, it taught me enough about 

color to try coloring scratchboard. I have little patience for anything in my life but when I sit in front 

of my easel to work I could be there for 12 or 14 hours straight. It’s very cathartic for me. 

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received I’d like to say it was the art teacher who had the 

whole class bring their most prized work of art to class to share only to tell us all to rip it up. The 

message was supposed to be - you could always do it again and do it better. Well that’s a great 

thought and it would be nice if it’s the truth but I’m certainly never going to try and find out!! NO, 

I’d have to say the best advice I got was from an artist residing in Washington DC, can I say her 

name Jodi Walsh if I can. She said, very simply “get over it”. What if people steal my work 

and use it as a screen saver or print it out and hang it in their cubicle at work and she said - so 

what Get over it. The likelihood that someone will take a tiny file and pirate it somehow and 

make millions off your work is pretty small, and if they do then you have something you can actually 

sue them for! In the age of the Internet theft is inevitable, look at it as free advertising because 

if they think it’s cool enough to swipe it they’ll also show it to their friends. In the end this isn’t what 

we should be worrying about as aspiring artists, if you’re too afraid to put yourself out there then 

you won’t BE out there and no one will see you at all.    

What is the one thing you will never paint Dolls and clowns 

What’s the most meaningful recognition you’ve received for your artwork The second 

picture I ever sold is still the most meaningful to me. I’ve received dozens of awards and ribbons 

- 2 best in show even! But this young girl in her twenties, who worked in an office somewhere - 

didn’t make a lot of money, made payments to buy my picture and she told me that when she saw 

it displayed at the show it made her cry. All she could do was stare at it and feel complete emotion 

and connection to what I created and it touched her so deeply she stood there in the crowd and 

cried. Now this just happens to be MY favorite piece as well, of which I have a very close and 

emotional connection to, and I thought as I walked it to her door to deliver it that I was going to cut 

and run away at any moment screaming mine! You can’t have it! But I’m glad I didn’t. I handed 

it over and felt content that it was going to hang in a modest home for someone who was buying it 

not because it was a good investment or because they are an avid art collector but because, well, 

she just loved it. I think as artists we all want to evoke some kind of reaction in our viewers that is 

deep and visceral and it’s a great validation of your work when you see it happen.  



VL 

Heather Lara 

What are your goals for the future I’d like to expand my audience, get represented in a few more 

galleries and actually pay my husband back for the hoard of art materials I’ve amassed over the years. 

Above all my goal is to keep having fun. I’m blessed with two beautiful little girls and they deserve the 

bulk of my attention right now, I figure I’ll have plenty of time to devote to my art career when they’re in 

their teens and hate me.  

What galleries represent your work Celebration Fine Art Gallery, San Diego, California and Metalography 

Gallery, Temecula, CA 

Elusive 8 X 10 



artspan 

Seeing Double 8 x 10 



N J Busse 

Painter of the West 

nanceejean.com 


njovmc@gmail.com 

970.261.2028


Sandy Moser 

Specializing in Wildlife Art 

SandyMoserart.com 

SandyMoserArt.com 

SeaCoastTrailArt.com 


artspan 

SandyMoserart.com 


JANICE WARRINER 

janicewarriner.com 

See my new line of work represented by UGallery 


ugallery.com/janice-warriner

Tatiana Roulin 

tatiannaroulin.com 


VL 

Terry Lee 

TerryLeeArt.com 


Wildlife Painter and Sculptor 



VL Studio Visit Terry Lee 

Painter and Sculptor 

Capturing his animals in a moment of time and in all of their majestic beauty, his impressionistic 

style, along with his magnificent sense of color, gives new meaning to Africa’s spectacular 

scenery and wildlife. 

Terry believes that traveling to Africa and seeing these animals in their native habitat helps him to 

see with “African Eyes”. Terry feels that “I do my best to create a sense of energy and action. 

I capture emotional moments using color and light, sweeping brush strokes and bold swaths of 

color, drawing the eye into the scene. I want the viewer to feel the intense light and heat of the 

sun, creating atmosphere and mood”. 

For twenty years Terry was the owner of a large sporting goods business in Coeur d’ Alene Idaho. Along 

with the gun and fishing departments, he also included a ski and scuba section. He was a certified scuba 

instructor for 18 years (N.A.U.I. & P.A.D.I.). 

Deciding that he needed a change, Terry headed for sunny California. It was there that he went through 

that “what do I want to be when I grow up” thing. 

Realizing that his life long interest was actually a passion, he turned to pursue a full time art career. He 

returned to Idaho and set up his studio in the same building, where the sporting goods store had been. 

Recognizing the value to himself and other artists in the community, he opened his large studio four nights 

a week to Life Drawing and Sculpting sessions, providing the model and space to those who are interested in 

working with the human figure. 



Terry has created a truly unique style. It reflects a combination of the old masters and a lot of 

“Terry Lee” bringing a new energy to wildlife art. Terry’s collectors experience a bold usage of 

color that is refreshingly different from anything they have ever seen. As one admirer quoted 

at a recent gallery showing, “You are a breath of fresh air in a world of sameness”. 

Terry enjoys working on large canvas and many of his pieces are five to eight feet long, with some 

as large as ten feet. These unusually large canvases are perfect for the many corporate collectors 

he has. 

Terry Lee’s work can be found in Galleries in Montana,Colorado,California,Washington and Idaho. 



VL 

Studio Visit Terry Lee 

Terry Lee - 1-208-659-4182 

http://www.TerryLeeArt.com 

TerryLee@TerryLeeArt.com 

All Rights Reserved. 





VL 

Studio Visit Terry Lee 

TerryLee.com 


Terry Lee - 1-208-659-4182 

http://www.TerryLeeArt.com 

TerryLee@TerryLeeArt.com 

All Rights Reserved.

TerryLee.com 


Darla McDowell 

“Daddy’s Boys” 

Granny’s Mixing Bowl Oil 18 x 24 

DarlaMcDowell.blogspot.com 


connie dines 

"Artistic exposures one frame at a time" 

conniedines.com 


ARTSPAN Artist Spotlight 

artspan 

Artist Interview 


When did you realize you loved art and wanted to be an artist I I was very young and started 

drawing on walls, grocery bags and anything that would take a mark so long ago that I think there were 

only 49 States in the Union at that time. I believe I may be dating myself, but when I think back to a point 

in time that could answer the question I only remember enjoying drawing and painting things that were 

not there. 

Who has been your mentor, or greatest influence to date I was mostly self taught. It was the comic 

book artists that first attracted my attention, I wanted to draw just like them. Then in High School I was 

introduced to the Classical, then the Gothic and Renaissance artists. But if I was to name an artist of 

influence, I would have to say Leonardo da Vinci. I know that he is not alive in the world, but his joy of 

understanding and creating art is very much alive in my studio. 

Who has been your mentor, or greatest influence to date There are several living artists that I 

admire, some of them live nearby. But I would have to list Daniel E. Greene and his very talented wife, 

Wende Caporale as the persons that steered me to the art of pastels. The reason is easily seen in their 

works. 

Who is another living artist you admire and why Lately I’ve followed the works of Tibor Nagy and 

David Shevlino. Their brushwork is amazing and they both have a spontaneity and looseness that speaks 

to me. I know that there is a certain amount of abstraction there that I would like to start incorporating 

into my own. 

What is your favorite surface to paint on I love paper, all kinds of paper. I have boxes and shelves of 

paper. Graphite, pen, pastel and watercolor. I just love the feel of paper. 

What is your favorite materials to use Graphite and pastels are my materials of choice. Although I 

am now learning oil and acrylic painting. 

Do you have a favorite color palette I use so many pastels, that I do not really have a palette. With my 

incursions into oil painting I have been using Daniel Greene’s palette. I like his set up and mixing. 

How often do you work on your artwork How many hours a week Pastels and graphite fit into my 

busy life very well, I can stop at a moment’s notice and pick up again quickly. I try to work 4-6 hours every 

day. Even when I suffer “blank page” I will sit in my studio with a cup of coffee and look at books and 

magazines. I have a lot. 

What is the one thing you would like to be remembered for Simply, for being a good person. 

There are many culprits that can crush creativity, such as distractions, self-doubt and fear of failure. 

What tends to stand in the way of your creativity All of the above, I am never happy with any of 

my work. This sometimes gets in the way of creating new pieces. But, I get over it and paint. 

How do you overcome these obstacles I close the door to my studio, and then everyone leaves me 

alone. There are no phones in my workplace. 

http://www.bencheshireart.com/ 


What are your inspirations for your work I find inspiration in everything around me, foxes running through the 

forest, early morning light through the trees. Just life in general. 

What is your favorite way to get creative juices flowing It’s figuring out how to flush my brain of all the aforementioned 

distractions. Sometimes I will hop the Metro into D.C. and walk through the Art Museums. 

Which work of yours is your favorite So far I like the pastel “Red Wolf”. 



artspan 



Wildlife Artist Benjamin Cheshire in studio. 



Up Close and Personal 

What is your favorite color in your closet Greens, blues and the required artist black. 

What book are you reading this week Dan Brown’s “Inferno” and “Operation Barbarossa” by David Glantz. 

Do you have a favorite televison show I rarely watch any television. 

What is your favorite food Just about anything Italian, I love the colors, smells and the appearance 

of those wonderful Italian dishes. 

What color sheets are on your bed right now That is an interesting question, they are pale blue. 

What are you most proud of in your life My three adult children. They are everything to me. 

Do you have a passion or hobby other than painting/sculpting I love to work on and drive my 1971 Triumph. 

But I am very careful with my hands. 

If you were an animal what would you be and why That is easy, a cat, they are totally cool. 

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only take three things, what would they be My pencils, 

paper and of course my wine. 

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live Bermuda, the reason being, just enough English, 

with a hint of American and beaches 



artspan 







Pol Ledent – Belgium 


ledent-gallery.be 

A Summer’s Welcome” 14” x 18

JUDITH GOOLSBY 

Acrylic Narrative Paintings 

RAINBOWS 48”x36” Acrylic on Wood 

judithgoolsby.com 


Brian James Kluck 

brianjameskluck.com 


Abstract Collage Paintings 

brianjameskluck.com 


Sarah J Webber 

“I paint animals with passion. Spontaneous, textured 

brushwork, rich color and a loving expression are the hallmarks 

of my work. I am inspired by artists of the past. I 

admire simple shapes and interesting design. I paint 

animals of all kinds, but especially farm animals as they 

speak of better times.” 

sarahjwebber.com 


Ann Hoffpauir 

artworkbyann.com 

http://artworkbyann.com/ 


DUTCH A 

DutchArtgallery.net 

dutchartgallery.net 


RT 

DutchArtgallery.net 

dutchartgallery.net 


VL 

Studio Visit with Texas Artist Pamela Blaies 

Studio 

Studio 

Visit 

Visit 

Texas 

Texas 

Artist 

StillLife 

David 

Artist 

Forks 

Pamela Blaies 

DavidForks.com 


DavidForks.com 


VL 

Studio Visit Pamela Blaies 

Discovering a Passion 

Pamela Blaies discovered her passion for painting a little later in life. She was married with two 

toddlers and an infant and they had just moved into a new home. For her and her husband it 

was exciting. The new house was larger and they could see that with a little renovation here and 

there, it would become their dream home. However, her little ones did not feel the same. They 

were sad about leaving the familiar, cozy nest of the only home they’d ever known to stay in a 

strange new place. To lift their spirits Pamela began to create murals on their bedroom walls. 

She found herself anticipating each morning filled with painting. After covering the walls of three 

bedrooms, two bathrooms and a playroom with scenes from Winnie the Pooh, princesses with 

purple and pink hair, rainbows, clouds and bubbles…wall space ran out. Compelled to explore 

this newly discovered part of her, she decided to try painting on canvas. This has evolved into a 

lifelong commitment to the pursuit of painting. Pamela has had the opportunity to study with 

talented and accomplished artists and has also discovered that self-study and experimentation 

work well for her as she continuously strives to grow as an artist. 

“Because I started a little late, I sometimes think with regret of the additional years I could have 

been developing as an artist if I had found my passion earlier. However, each time a non-productive 

thought like that enters my mind I remind myself that I can only go forward and take each day 

at a time. All of my experiences have brought me to the unique place I find myself and I wouldn’t 

trade a thing. But, I guess I still sometimes put a little pressure on myself to play ‘catch up’ along 

my art journey. A single lifetime doesn’t seem to be enough to fit in all I would like to learn and all 

of the ideas I would like to explore. “ 

PamelaBlaies.com 


Rose Garden Bounty 

Between taking care of a busy family with teenagers and keeping up with a full time art career, she 

admits that keeping balance in her life is one of her biggest struggles. “For years I would paint in our 

sunroom, which has great north light windows and is located right in the heart of our home. I loved 

being accessible to my family when they needed me, but it often caused problems for my creative 

process and for our home life.” 

Finding studio space outside the home did not seem like the best solution, so she began designing 

and preparing construction for a new 400 sq. foot space to be a dedicated home studio. The project 

was finally completed last September. “I still get a rush of energy, excitement and inspiration each 

time I walk into my studio. It is a wonderful place to be and I feel so blessed to have it!” 

Now that she has a dedicated art space to enter at the beginning of each day and leave behind each 

evening, she finds she is able to more consistently carve out creative time. She recently completed a 

Petite Painting Project, where she created 100 paintings in 100 days. “I wanted to challenge myself. 

Kind of like a self-imposed ‘art boot camp.’ I just wanted to see where it took me. It was amazing! 

After painting every single day for several months, I learned some interesting things. Creativity 

breeds creativity – instead of running out of ideas for compositions, my inspirations seemed to increase. 

Setting a routine for creating made me feel less stressed about organizing my life in general. 

Also, by intensely exploring color, value, composition and technique on a day-to-day basis, I saw 

incredible growth toward where I want to be as an artist.” 



VL 


Pamela enjoys exploring the new inspirations she finds each day. She prefers to paint from 

life, so she can see the full spectrum of color and values as she works to capture the light 

effect. She often uses Chiaroscuro to create dramatic light on her canvas. But black paint 

is not part of her palette. She uses color mixes and complements for shadows and lowering 

color intensity. Pamela paints Alla Prima style, finishing a painting in one sitting. The time 

limitation of this wet-on-wet technique motivates an energetic pace to her work and helps 

to keep her inspiration fresh. 

Having Friends to Tea 



Pears on a Chair 

“When I am asked what inspires me, I can’t say that it is a certain subject or theme. Inspiration is an 

abstract concept and is difficult to explain or describe, but I guess for me it could be simply stated as 

‘light.’ I am captivated by the effects of light and shadow in the world around me.” 



VL Studio Visit Pamela Blaies 

Through dedication, study and hard work, Pamela pursues her art with enthusiasm. She is a 

member of Oil Painters of America, American Women Artists, Contemporary Fine Art International, 

Artists of Texas and Professional Artists in North Texas. You can see her work at the Dutch Art 

Gallery, in Dallas, Texas, Stinger Studio, in Georgetown, Texas, and at various solo and group 

exhibits throughout the year. Visit her website www.pamelablaies.com for a full listing of upcoming 

events and contact information. 

Elegant Pear 



Oranges and Cobalt Glass

Dusk 



VL 


Cooper Teapot 



One Blue Bloom 

Pamela is a native Texan. She was born in Irving, raised in the Houston area and attended high 

school in Georgetown. After graduating from Baylor University with a degree in Business Administration, 

she was ready to spread her wings and experience more. She skipped the graduation 

ceremony to catch the first flight to Europe to continue the fashion modeling career she enjoyed for 

over a decade. She is working toward becoming fluent in Spanish and loves to travel, but home 

is where her heart is - Texas. She now lives with her husband of 16 years and their 3 children in 

Colleyville, Texas, located in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. 



The Spirit of the Wild 

Mary Jo Zorad 

ZoradArt.com 



ZoradArt.com

Diane Whitehead

VL 

Painting in the Wild 

Diane Whitehead 

Life’s journey finds me surrounded by crystal clear sea foam 

green water, pthalo blue skies, crimson Indian paintbrush flowers, 

and still de grain brown tamarack. I live and work in the 

mountains in Montana high above the small town of Ovando. 

How did I get here My story is blessed with twists and turns 

and as I believe in fate, this is exactly where I am supposed to 

be. 

Born second of eight children in Spokane Washington I was of 

the generation that when you finished breakfast in the morning, 

you left the house and were not expected back until dinner 

time. By foot or by bicycle no one worried about where you 

were or what you were doing. My brothers and I never left the 

house without our towels and our swimsuits, ready for the local 

public swimming pool to open, as this was where we spent 

most of our days in the summer time.Years later I learned that 

my husband to be happened to be at the same swimming pool 

most days as well. 

My teenage years surprised me with a desire to paint with oils. 

A relative happened to give me a set of oil paints and some 

Walter Foster “how to paint” books in grade school. Following 

the instructions I found that I became an individual in the 

process instead of just one of eight kids, fighting for their own 

identity. I continued to paint anything I could think of until I got 

married and had my daughter. Working in the pharmaceutical 

field and then in Real Estate, 26 years later I found myself 

no longer “found”. My individuality and my soul seemed to be 

scanning the horizon for something meaningful. Still raising four 

kids at the time, I bought some paint, 100 blank canvas and 

told myself that if #100 was not significantly better than #1 then 

I had to find something else to do besides paint. 

They all sold, and at the time eBay was the best online site to 

sell. While listing paintings on eBay, I could continue to paint 

and teach myself better skills. A workshop with Carolyn Anderson, 

Reid Galey and Jove Wang really opened my eyes to 

impressionistic style of painting and my work seemed to evolve 

with each painting. 

DianeWhitehead.com 

57 




VL 

Painting in the Wild with Diane Whitehead 

Moving from Spokane to Park City, Utah became the shift that 

changed the way my work became available to the public – From 

online sources to a Gallery presence. 

My dream had been to be juried into the Western Masters show 

in Great Falls, Montana and acceptance into prestigious juried 

shows throughout the United States. This has all come to fruition 

and I continue to dangle my own carrot in front of my nose and 

challenge myself daily. 

Today I am a full time resident of Montana, walking a short path 

to my studio on the water, and when I sit at my easel my heart 

bubbles up with joy and gratitude for I have been blessed with 

the ability to determine my every moment of my every day. I think 

I can contribute my determination and my drive and the fact that 

I realized early on in life that I was always at choice. I was not a 

victim and only I could be in charge of my daily life. I never could 

succumb to the tyranny of immediacy, having a boss who was 

himself having a bad day or hated his life, which did then affect 

mine when all was said and done. 

I have fought to find my own words in my images and my work. 

Painting is like your signature and your fingerprint. Others can try 

and copy, and believe me they do, but they cannot be the same 

being that you are when you paint. Your “stuff”, your “story”, your 

own personal history will come out. You can try to emulate another 

artist, but when you boil everything down to just you, the paint 

and a blank canvas, that’s when the truth comes out. 



My major in college was veterinary medicine and business, of which both were essential to my love of 

animals and the skill you need to run your own business as an artist. I love the eyes of the animals. I often 

encounter bear, coyote, wolf, fox and mountain lion in this area- I have a critter cam and my camera 

handy at all times. but most bears I have encountered are not aggressive or worrisome. 



VL 






VL 




I am currently represented by galleries in Jackson Hole, Park City, St George, Sundance Resort, 

Dallas Texas, Crested Butte Colorado, Big Timber Montana and PawsUp! Resort in Montana- I often 

paint live for groups at PawsUps and Sundance Resort and am preparing for the Western Masters 

show in March. I have been selected for the 16th American Women Artists annual national juried 

competition for a November show, as well as the quick draw at the Fall Festival in Jackson Hole, 

Wyoming in September 



feliciamarshall.blogspot.com 


Felicia Marshall 




CFAI.co 

Summer Juried Show 

“Abstraction” 

Brenda York 

$500 in total cash prizes 

Open to 2D visual artists worldwide 

www.cfai.co/juried-shows 


International Exhibits 

Montecarlo, Italy August 28 - September 9 2013 

Rheinbach, Germany October 7-14, 2013 

Jones 

Michal Ashkenasi 

michalsart.com 

vinartmontecarlo.com 


Lady L 

www.cfai.co/ladyl 


www.cfai.co/ladyl 


Carol Schiff 

Nancy Medina 

Palette Knife Artists 

www.paletteknifepainters.blogspot.com 

Hallie Kahn 


Deb Foxen

Marion Hedger 

Roxanne Steed 

www.paletteknifepainters.blogspot.com 

Karen Tarlton 


Dara Oshin 

I begin my process by creating a rock sculpture working within the physical limitations 

of gravity while balancing the rocks visually and in space. The shapes and 

personalities of each stone begin to fill the air with soothing rhythm and comforting 

melody as I strive to capture the vibrations of the light and the subtle changes of 

colorful earthly hues. I work uniquely from life without the use of artificial lighting. 

DaraOshin.com 


artspan 

DaraOshin.com 


Dara Oshin 

DaraOshin.com 

The paintings shown here were created in a studio with either southern exposure or 

northern exposure. I find southern light to be warm and intoxicating, seductive yet 

elusive and fleeting. This intense light embodies two distinct and opposing worlds, 

one of light and another of darkness. Northern light on the other hand is diffused 

and reflective. It is gentle, calm, quiet and cool. Yet, at the same time, it is expansive 

and revealing. It is an intimate light that I can breathe deeply into my soul. 

I like to believe that collectors use my paintings as a starting point to ponder. 

Please visit daraoshin.com to find more rock paintings (and to ponder...). 


artspan 

DaraOshin.com 


Betty Russell Gates: Born on an oil lease in Oklahoma, in 1927. Her 

art career began with John Frank, Frankhoma Pottery in Sapulpa, 

Oklahoma. After a brief time at Arkansas A&M, Gates graduated from 

Art Instruction Inc. in commercial art. After ten years as a commercial 

artist, she went with her first gallery, Merrill’s Gallery in Taos in 59. 

Gates studied with Dutch Painter Dirk Van Driest, Paul Strisik, William 

Henry Earle, and Ray Froman. Sorolla, Sargent, & Fechin influenced 

her style. 

Gates has exhibited in places such as Canyon House Rotunda, House 

of Representatives in Washington, D.C., Broome St. Gallery, Cork Gallery, 

Lincoln Center, Jacob Javits Building, in New York, and Sen Yet 

Sen Museum in Taiwan. 

Her awards include: “A.A.P.L.”, Award , American Artist Professional 

League, Catherine Lorillard Wolf Art Club Award. “Still Life Award” , 

“Anna Hyatt Huntington Bronze Metal” , and “ Katherine T. Lovell Memorial 

Award” in Catherine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club exhibitions in N.Y. 

C., New York, and “Best of Show” and “ Special Award” in the National 

League of American Pen Women, Dallas, Texas. 

Gates has earned Signature Status in KA, OPA, AAWA, WAOW, CL- 

WAC Signature 16, ACA, and APA. A US Coast Guard Artist since 

1987 she has three paintings in their permanent collection. 

A reputable gallery artist since 1957. Dunn & Bradstreet rated. 

150 http://www.b-r-gates-art.com/ 

| VL Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

WAOW 2013 BEST OF SHOW – “Spring Water” – Betty Gates 

http://www.b-r-gates-art.com/ 


“End of Day” 

Oil 24” x 30” 

“General Store” 

Oil 5” x 7” 

152 | VL 


Magazine - VisualLanguageMagazine.com

Betty Gates 

“Three Cousins” 

Oil 30” x 40” 

“The Boss” 

Oil 24” x 30” 



Charles Spinetta Winery 

and Wildlife Art Gallery 


Our family owned winery released its first three wines in 1984 and 

opened its tasting room in 1989. The tasting room includes one 

of Northern Cailfornia’s largest wildlife art galleries with original 

watercolors, sculpture, pottery, and hundreds of framed prints from 

dozens of artists. We are located forty five miles east of Sacramento 

near the town of Plymouth and dozens of boutique wineries. 

Gold rush era towns such as Volcano, Sutter Creek, Amador City, 

and Jackson are nearby. 

Shortly after releasing our first wines, we realized that we needed 

a unique label that would draw attention to our wines on crowded 

shelves. Charles Spinetta, the winery owner and founder, was 

introduced to renowned wildlife artist Joe Garcia by friends during 

a hunting trip, and the two men readily agreed to creating wine 

labels that featured watercolor paintings by Garcia. Garcia also 

suggested creating a series of limited edition prints to accompany 

each label art image, and the winery’s wildlife art gallery grew 

from offering prints of its own labels. Sherrie Russell Meline was 

commissioned to paint waterfowl for Spinetta’s wine labels just a 

few years later, and the two artists each created several labels for 

Spinetta in the years that followed. 

Tasting room visitors enjoy their wine while exploring over 3,000 

square feet of wildlife art. Large bronze sculptures grace the 

tasting room bartop, and dozens of panels are covered with limited 

edition prints. An assortment of original watercolors graces the 

wall behind the tasting bar, and smaller items like raku pottery and 

woodcarvings peek out from nooks and display cases. 

The interior of the gallery is an improvisational work of Philip Giurlani, 

a contractor from Jackson, California, and Charles Spinetta. 

Spinetta procured a large truckload of redwood from his brother in 

law, and with Giurlani’s expert carpentry, a subtle, yet distinctive, 

background formed to showcase the gallery’s assortment of art. 

Large panels are suspended from the rafters for hanging art, and 

diagonal wood panels boldly disrupt the symmetry of the cement 

block building’s walls to present larger prints, watercolors, and oils. 


A selection of rare first edition prints by Carl Brenders and Charles Fracé currently occupies part of 

the gallery’s second floor. Spinetta recently purchased an assortment of unframed mint condition 

prints from a collector, and this special offering of bright, vivid 30-40 year old prints draws lots of attention 

from guests. 

An onsite frame shop fulfills the needs of the gallery, and we also take in custom work. All of our 

framing is conservation grade, and we frame family treasures everyday. Dorothy Tiquet has worked 

in our frame shop for over twenty years, and each piece demonstrates her personal flair as well as her 

delicate touch. 

The winery’s case production is limited, and our wines are only available in our tasting room. We ship 

direct to customers in forty three states, but tasting room visitors purchase nearly all of our wine while 

visiting in person. 

The tasting room and gallery are open five days a week (closed on Tuesday and Wednesday) with the 

exception of major holidays. Shaded picnic grounds are available, and the surrounding towns feature 

an assortment of inns, restaurants, and local attractions. 

Monday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday 

Charles Spinetta Winery 

12557 Steiner Road • P.O. Box 717 

Plymouth, CA 95669 



Daily Painters Abstract Gallery 

http://www.dailypaintersabstract.blogspot.com 

Carol Nelson 

http://www.carolnelsonfineart.com 

Nancy Eckels 

http://www.nancyeckels.com 


Barbara Van Rooyan 

http://www.barbaravanrooyanabstractart.com

Daily Painters Abstract Gallery 

http://www.dailypaintersabstract.blogspot.com 

Carol Engles 

http://www.carolengles.artspan.com 

Theresa Paden 

http://www.theresapaden.com 

Andrew Barlow 

http://www.andrewbarlow.net 


LISA McKINNEY 


www.cfai.co/lisamckinney 

Lisa-McKinney.com 

Lisa-McKinney.artistwebsites.com 


Kimberly Conrad 

Contemporary Abstract Artist 

“Pouring Color Into Your Life” 

“Red Sky Warning” III 30x30x1.5 Acrylic on Canvas 


http://www.KimberlyConradFineArt.com

“Change is Coming” 16x20x1.5 Acrylic on Canvas 

“Rolling In” 12x16x1.5 Acrylic on Canvas 

http://www.KimberlyConradDailyPaintings.blogspot.com 


VL 

Photographer Spotlight 

Pauline Fowler 

The Past - 

Born in Liverpool UK, I grew up in Africa reading The Jungle Book, Doctor Dolittle and EVERY- 

THING Gerald Durrell ever wrote encouraged by my wonderful father. When we got back to the 

UK again I think I wrote every week to London Zoo asking for a job, but at 11 years old I may have 

been a trifle optimistic! 

Life steered me in the direction of the Arts, and I first did a BA in Ceramics in Cardiff making fantasy 

porcelain creatures, and then my Masters Degree in the Royal College of Art; again based 

around animals, this time much more anthropomorphic(Johnny Morris was my idol - he who could 

make the animals talk). 

The next 28 years saw me as Co-Director of a company in the film business making (surprise, 

surprise!) animals for films. I became a sculptor in clay, mainly because I had no facility for drawing, 

however hard I tried. I do a lot more than that now but I am still mainly a 3D person. However, 

about 5 years ago I had a bit of a crisis with my work, someone suggested I get a camera, a proper 

one, (not just a point and shoot of the sort that I was used to for taking reference shots) to try 

and refresh and re-inspire me. The first picture I took was embarrassing, mainly because I had the 

lens cap on, actually in all honesty the first YEAR was embarrassing, mainly because I was still 

taking ‘reference’ shots but with a more complex camera - sadly the point and shoot shots were 

better! 

I genuinely don’t know when something clicked, but gradually I started to actually create with my 

images, and after I started teaching myself how to do textures and layers in Photoshop, well, everything 

simply changed! 

The Present - a reason and a purpose- 

I am a self taught photographer and editor. What I bring to my animal photography is years of 

looking and studying form, character, and how the play of light affects atmosphere on shape and 

emotion. I have re-studied the Old Masters, and their use of natural light. I use multiple bursts with 

my camera to try and capture a glance, a fleeting reaction, a subtle nuance of body language that 

changes a simple shot into a story that tells a thousand words, enhanced with softly shaping hints 

of light and background. Textures must never detract from the main character, but should caress 

and highlight. 

Zoos are now Arks of huge import for the wildlife of this world. I have been to many now over the 

years, and when I photograph the animals within I try to create with the ensuing images a rapport 

with the viewer, something to make them really LOOK. 

I find that sometimes I get the strongest reaction when there appears to be a human emotion 

within the glance of the animal, and because of that I still find anthropomorphism a fascinating and 

powerful thing, and feel I have only scratched the surface of what I can investigate and create. 

It is not only the endangered exotics though - if it breathes I love it, and domestic animals are as 

wonderful and complex and characterful as any wild creature. 

The more I photograph and watch animals, the more I see play and humour and incredible family 

values within their groups that I want to capture. I see solitary beauty, I see unrestrained pleasure....and 

I am lost in the wonder of it. I hope you will be too. 

http://www.paulinefowlerphotography.com 


artspan 



VL 

Pauline Fowler 



artspan 



VL Pauline Fowler 



artspan 



THE COLORS OF TEXAS 

artistsoftexas.org 


THE ARTISTS OF TEXAS 

artistsoftexas.blogspot.com 

dailypaintersoftexas.blogspot.com 


CFAI.co Art Challenge 


July 2013 “Tropical Days” 

Best of Show - Judy Batterson 

http://www.cfai.co/art-challenge-july-2013-tropical-days 

Best of Show 

Paradise Found 

Judy Batterson 

www.cfai.co/judybatterson 


First Place 

Shopping Mall in Paradise 

Carol Hein 

www.cfai.co/carolhein 




Second Place 

Emily 

Barbara Jones 

www.cfai.co/barbarajones 


CFAI.co August Art Challenge - “Hot August Nights” - $100 Cash Prize! 

Open to all 2D visual artists! 

Enter now - 

www.cfai.co/art-challenge 

Painting by Barbara Haviland 


Third Place 

Harbour View 

Carmen Beecher 

www.cfai.co/carmenbeecher 


Submit your portfolio to join 

Contemporary Fine Art International 

www.cfai.co/register 


VL OilPaintingDVD.com 

Step by Step Demonstrations 

OilPaintingDVD.com 

hrgroat1@stny.rr.com 


Hall Groat II 

OilPaintingDVD.com 


The Five Graces 

Lincoln ~ Pace ~ Togel ~ Whitehead ~ Zorad 

the5graces.com 

Diane Whitehead 

Mary Jo Zorad 

Laurie Pace 

What makes The Five Graces special/unique 

All members of The Five Graces create bold, vividly-colored artworks with an inspirational flair. Several of the group are excellent 

teachers and writers. They work energetically toward touring exhibitions that showcased their artworks - shows to the US 

and to Europe. All five artists are spread out over the US. 


Who are The Five Graces 

Debbie Grayson Lincoln (the steady grace), Laurie Justus Pace (the heartbeat grace), Conni Tögel (the wired 

grace), Diane Baird Whitehead (the business-minded, directly spoken grace) and Mary Jo Zorad (the quietly 

inspired grace) have as many similarities as they do differences. Their artwork demonstrates a common commitment 

to a high standard of workmanship. To speak with any one of the five women reveals a commonality 

in what inspires them and how they choose to live their lives, with integrity and a commitment to doing their 

work for a higher cause. Each feels her creative inspiration as a passionate and natural calling. 

thefivegraces.blogspot.com for daily updates 

Debbie Lincoln 

Conni Togel 

the5graces.com 


http://davethepaintingguy.com/podcast/

Visual Language Magazine Contemporary Fine Art Vol 2 No 9 September 2013

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