Behind the Scenes with Susan Abell

What lights you up or inspires you?

As an artist, I am often on the lookout for inspiration for my latest artwork or future paintings.

Decidedly, inspiration comes in many forms. It could be from taking a walk outside. Other times it could stem from someone's comments. As a painter of nature, it isn't hard to find inspiration on a regular basis. More often than not, I have more ideas than hours in the day!

Wherever inspiration comes from, it is really important to be open to those inspiring nudges.

Case in point. ...at recent art festivals, upon seeing my artwork on displayed in my booth, visitors  often commented on the consistent theme of light.

It was gratifying that my desire to "capture light" in a painting was evident and appreciated without me having been first to offer an explanation. Some even felt compelled to purchase the pieces they found most inspiring!

Whether obvious or not, painters are always seeking to convey a message through their artwork and connect with viewers.

If you were to analyze my paintings, you would no doubt recognize light as the main source of inspiration. The two images below illustrate that point from two differing settings.

The first image of light peeking through trees on a winter's day was the focus. Light bounced off the pond while the bare trees seemed to glow, very inspiring!

                                                                                                     Winter Light I   Susan Abell

The second image was based on a photo I took while hiking around Cumberland Island, Georgia. I was struck by the mystery of that compelling light,beckoning at the end of long path.
It really is a metaphor for life...taking steps toward the light. Light is another word for hope in my opinion. Landscape artists and photographers alike often have the compulsion to capture nature's remarkable light.

                                                                                      Trip through a Maritime Forest I Susan Abell

Changing atmospheric conditions and seasonal changes bring  about fascinating variations to the light.  That explains why many painters often paint the same scene repeatedly. Claude Monet, most notably applied his genius in this manner.

Hopefully, you have gained a little insight into what inspires me in the creation of my artwork. What inspires you in your endeavors?

During this season of light, may you find hope and inspiration in light in whatever form that may be.

The richness I achieve comes from nature, the source of my inspiration.      Claude Monet   

Ever wonder if you are on the right path?  Is this the way to go?

If you are like most folks, at one time or another in your life you've had that very question.

Difficult decisions to consider?

Maybe your own backyard provides the respite you seek or even a golf course when you also need the break being outside offers.

Whatever it is you may be contemplating, you likely have your own go-to place, unique to you to work through your thoughts.

Back on the path.....the painting featured is a really metaphor for the uncertainties in life.

All were inspired by the pathways throughout a favorite place of mine, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia.  Not only does this environment provide countless natural inspiration, but somehow after a long walk my creative insight is clearer.

A number of paintings of mine have been directly influenced by the unique filtered light through the trees in the garden.  Capturing the glow of the sunlight between the branches is both fun and challenging.  Just walking along the varied paths is energizing and inspirational.  In the spring of the year, color is everywhere.

After a visit to the State Botanical Garden, refreshed and renewed, I usually can't wait to get back to painting!   Hope your place offers the same kind of inspiration for you.

Thanks for reading!

The Art of Discovery: Marsh Life

“I have an immoderate passion for water; for the sea, though so vast, so restless, so beyond one's comprehension; for rivers, beautiful, yet fugitive and elusive; but especially for marshes, teeming with all that mysterious life of the creatures that haunt them. A marsh is a whole world within a world, a different world, with a life of its own....
― Guy de Maupassant, The House of Madame Tellier and Other Stories

In a previous post I shared the stages of the oil painting process for depicting a salt marsh. On this post are the results of the completed painting entitled Marsh Life. Much like the quote above, I have a passion for marshes!

You can see from past posts, the coast of Georgia has been a prominent subject. You may wonder why I have written about the same subject repeatedly.

I suppose the secret lies with discovery. There is always something new to uncover even in familiar surroundings. To begin with, my particular affinity for the coast of Georgia stems from family trips to the region during my youth. Later, my husband and I  vacationed here  with our  children years ago. Many happy times were spent riding bikes and exploring all aspects of the island.

Flash forward several years, my trips to Jekyll Island became more educational experiences with my fifth grade students to the 4-H Center, including my own son one year. Along with my students, I rediscovered many amazing features of Jekyll Island, including the maritime forests, marshland, beaches, mud flats, and tidal creeks, as well as the plethora of creatures that inhabit this barrier island.

http://www.goldenisles.com/jekyll-island

More recently, my husband and I have taken several trips to the island (minus the kids!) since my retirement from teaching a few years ago. Certainly our curiosity for nature was peeked long ago, but there is always something new to discover here.

With so much natural beauty abounding, I am never lacking for painting inspiration. As a landscape painter, the coastal region of Georgia is among my favorite subjects.  Most notably, I have a preference for the soothing color palette of the coastal landscape. It seems lots of people feel the same. Perhaps it is a reminder of those best-loved times of discovery at the beach.

Discovery of our surroundings leads to discovery of ourselves.

I have now taken so many reference photographs during such island exploration, I would need to paint day and night to capture all those images! If I just need a little inspiration to spur me on, I only need to reflect on the memories and times of discovery. Subtle nuances...the varied shades of green in marsh grass, the sparkling waters, and the array of colors evident in sunsets. As a painter, I am always eager to begin a new coastal artwork- it is a discovery of the many attributes of Georgia's coast all over again!

What is your favorite coastal retreat?

Do you have a favorite vacation place?  Think about where you feel most centered.

If you could relive memories everyday of that special location, would you do it?

Upon reflection, if your favorite place involves a beach certain words may come to mind.

Blissful. Relaxing. Carefree. Serene. Calming...

These words may describe that the sense of the experience you get from "your place".

If you are like many people, like myself, the beach easily fits the bill. The color palette alone of the coastal environment evokes such a sense of calm and well-being, don't you agree?

The featured work  is an example of a coastal color scheme connection to our emotions. Case in point: ever notice how interior design experts often recommend the soothing neutrals for bedrooms? It seems the cool blues, greens, grays, and taupes make for a restful room.

The beach painting, Destiny, was based on a morning stroll on the beach of Jekyll Island, Georgia.

It was a fairly typical beach day- the sun was shining and a gentle breeze was blowing. When I glanced down the beach I noticed this lone cumulus cloud hovering vertically-Interesting and worthy of being captured in painting. The whole scene was particularly captivating.

The other thing that intrigued me about the setting was the contrasting color palette from the darker waters to the varied shades of sand.

It was fun to get lost in the scene while painting. Who wouldn't want to revisit nature in this way? I call that destiny for sure!

Hope you find it equally welcoming and relaxing. Perhaps you are now thinking of a favorite spot you like to vacation.

If you have seen any of my other paintings, you may notice a common theme of paths or trails as a large part of the composition.  View these as hopeful signs for whatever journey you are on toward your own destiny. 

The title of this work says it all-the fulfillment of a calling, a destiny.

*Destiny is displayed in the Reciprocal Exhibition, University of North Ga, Oconee Campus, Watkinsville, Ga. March 2018.

“Cat: Where are you going?
Alice: Which way should I go?
Cat: That depends on where you are going.
Alice: I don't know.
Cat: Then it doesn't matter which way you go.”

Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

Do you ever feel like Alice? A little directionless…like a ship without a rudder? I would venture to say we have all felt uncertain at one time or another in our life journeys, especially if we are endeavoring to "branch out" in some way.

For many of us creative types, the uncertainty as to which step to take next is a large part of an entrepreneur's everyday life.  Why like Alice, I have felt perplexed on occasion several times a day....and that is only before noon!

Quite honestly, it does take a lot of fortitude and determination to forge ahead on a given path even when there isn't much guarantee of success. But if you are like me that just fuels you to not give up. Remaining positive and keeping the faith in the midst of challenges is key.

As we near the end of another month in a new year, it might be easy for some to harbor regrets with regards to those unfilled New Year's goals or dreams. Take heart, the year is still young and you can always "begin again" as many solo entrepreneurs, like myself, do every day. Besides,there are many ways to be successful and every step toward a goal is something to be celebrated.

Recently, I began a new painting series with a journey theme in mind. The inspiration behind this collection might seem a bit mundane at first. As my husband and I were traveling down the interstate on a rather seemingly gray day, I was struck by the clouds moving ahead. The usual storm clouds were in the foreground, but every so often a glimpse of the sun would peek through, clearly a hopeful sign.

Sounds a lot like life's ups and downs, doesn't it? While observing the clouds and snapping pictures of the scenes, I was reminded of the reason for the trip. My mother-in-law had passed away a few months earlier. We were journeying once again to her home to work on the clearing out process along with other family members.

Observing the clouds reminded me of her and her constant positive, faith-based outlook throughout her life, despite health difficulties and personal tragedy that clouded her life. Her lasting impact is monumental as she stayed true to her purpose in throughout life's journey.

After reviewing my photos of the day, I knew I wanted to paint a series based on this uplifting journey and message.  I can just imagine her  saying quite emphatically, "Journey On!" 

Thanks for reading!

The Enlightened Path to Art Understanding

Have you ever viewed a piece of artwork and just didn't understand it?

You may have wondered, "What is the artist trying to say here?"  "I just don't get it."

Perhaps a little direction might help. Come with me down this sunny path as I offer a little insight into this piece.  Any tips you acquire along the way would easily apply to most any other art you encounter as well.

As you can see, a tree-sheltered path meanders through the woods.  Simply put, you're "walking in sunshine". The inspiration for this painting stems from walks throughout the State Botanical of Garden of Georgia and my own neighborhood.  You can see it's fairly straightforward.  Springtime, trees, pathway, direction, sunshine.....

However, there are a few things to note. Think of deciphering a painting like unraveling a mystery.

Use these basic questions and follow the clues.

The Enlightened Path

I 24 x 36 gallery wrapped canvas I Susan Abell 2017[/caption]

• What is happening?
• What time of day does it appear to be?
• What colors are used? Are they light or dark?
• Is anyone in the painting?
• Where could the path lead?
• Why do you think the path seems to curve then fade into the light?

If you noted the purple shadows in the foreground...good for you.  If you saw the tree on the left and judged it to be slightly sheltering and leaning in, you were correct. If the sunlight outlining the path seemed to direct your eye to back of the background or focal point...now you are on to something!  Actually, the path appears to end, but is actually fading into the distant light, just beyond the curve.  Does that mean anything to you?

While paintings are subjective for the viewer, you likely can discern a few things I may have been conveying.  The path is certainly a metaphor for hope, promise, and perseverance at the very least. If you were to see any of my other works, you might observe a common pathway theme.  As an artist, I endeavor to connect with viewers on some level, however each work is open to interpretation.

At recent art shows, I was amazed to hear how differently booth visitors responded to my paintings. Some visitors made a quick connection to place. In those instances, I liked to see if they had an idea as to the inspiration before I jumped in to tell them where it was. Other visitors noted a common color scheme in many paintings.  Many others identified my emphasis of light. The individuals who made immediate connections to place or memory through a painting had found the right fit for them.

When you are considering artwork for your home, think about what speaks to you on some level.  Understanding and choosing art shouldn't be complicated.  After all, you are enlightened viewer on your own unique path!

You can learn more here. understanding art

If you liked this post, feel free to share with others on ‘your path'.

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Reaching for the Light

                                                                              Follow the light unflinchingly.  J.R.R. Tolkien

                                                                          Artist Susan Abell finding inspiration on Jekyll Island, Ga

Have you ever watched a sunrise over water?  Maybe you described the experience as spectacular, awe-inspiring, or simply amazing.

It may have seemed as if the light was reaching out directly to where you were. That it is the premise behind this painting in progress.

On my trips to Georgia's coast, I like to rise early, just before dawn.

Waiting for the dawn is exciting when you are in anticipation of  the glorious light show to come.

What might seem a mundane daily event is greatly heightened with the aspect of light over water.

To adequately represent a beach sunrise on canvas required a few steps.  Thinking ahead with the end result in mind, that is.

In this case, I used a layer of golden yellow first since that was the point after all.

Marshes are among my most favorite subjects to paint.  There is just something about the way light is reflected within the marsh grass.

I like how the shadows of the marshes in water contrast with reflected light.  It seems to add a hint of mystery.

Using an oil palette of cool and warm colors alternating applied with brushes and palette knife, the 'light story' takes shape.

I wanted your eye to follow the reflected light through the marsh, transitioning from sky to foreground.

A primary goal of this piece was to create a simplified work that allowed the light to be the emphasis- a serene luminosity in other words.

Hopefully, the final details will complete the effect of capturing the essence of marsh morning light.

Reminding myself that in this case, less is more and restraint in adding details may be required.                           

Finding Inspiration and the Art of Reinvention

Imagine you have at long last retired from a lengthy career. As an empty nester you no longer feel the suburban home meets your needs. What would you do if given the opportunity to live as you choose? Would you really make such a change?

A friend of mine embraced such a situation with real gusto recently. Very inspirational, all things considered.

Artists are always seeking inspiration for that next work. As a nature-inspired painter, it isn't hard for me to find. In this instance, it was the background story in addition to the surroundings that were particularly compelling.

After retiring from a long career as an university administrator, my friend jumped at the the chance to relive her childhood dream. That is, she bought the farm-literally. The best part is her "little bit of heaven" came complete with a horse, donkey, barn, and pasture.  It was inspiring to hear the excitement in her voice during each stage of the process of finding and purchasing her farm. When an initial deal fell through, she was undaunted and resumed the search with her realtor. At long last, the new rural adventure began, and was  embraced completely.

I paid a visit to the little homestead not long ago to meet the horse and donkey with such definitive personalities I had heard so much about.  When I asked if she had grown up on a farm, she recanted early experiences of visiting her grandfather's farm.  It seems those lifelong dreams had at last been realized, complete with two new furry friends.

Second phases of life do bring fulfillment and offer much inspiration. Just being receptive to new opportunities is the key. Being willing to accept new challenges has its own reward. Case in point-my friend has fully embraced the country life by even beginning horseback riding lessons in retirement. How exciting!

My visit inspired the painting featured.  Actually, I can't wait to visit my new friends again soon for even more inspiration. Perhaps they will even agree to sit for individual portrait painting sessions next. :)

*The unfettered rural countryside in Georgia was the inspiration for this original acrylic painting on canvas. Call it horse sense (or donkey) if you like, this painting featuring "best buddies" might remind you of visiting a favorite farm. Suitable for that home office if you need an occasional nudging to knock off work early to join your animals and enjoy the great outdoors.

*Original has sold, but available as prints. #rural #landscapepainting

As a visual artist, there are many tools at my disposal. Part of the appeal of the creative process is choosing what to use when. With regards to choosing materials, it can be both overwhelming and exciting when a beginning a new artwork.

Have you ever viewed an artwork and pondered, "How did they do that?" Or even, "What was used to create that?"

The 'secret sauce' can often be found in the materials an artist uses as well the technique involved.

In this post blog, I will offer a little insight into my own method to the madness. Hopefully, it will provide more understanding into the possible materials utilized for many artists. Good to know whether you are an artist, art collector, art aficionado, or just one who appreciates what they see.

For all artists, the cost of the materials involved is a large component of the overall artwork pricing formula.

First of all, some clarification...media refers to the type of paint used and the base where it is applied. A medium refers to the materials that are used to create a work of art. The plural of medium is media, so the words may be used interchangeably.

Since I enjoy painting with water media: watercolor, acrylic, and water soluble oil paints, there may often be additional items to include during the process.  "Why, you may ask, do I paint in three different media?"

Essentially, the type of painting/subject to me dictates which I paint I may include for the process.  Certainly, there are countless fine artists who have perfected their skill with one particular type, but for me I enjoy the experimentation and even integration of more than at a time.

What  may be advantageous to the painting process for one artist might not appeal to another artist. Creating art is very similar to the cooking process-the tools and techniques can yield varied results and are dependent upon personal preference.

The Art of the Matter

With so many media readily available, the options are endless. The commonality for my choice of painting media is water-based.  It is also important to use the highest quality products for the best results. The type of materials used in creating a compelling work is an primary consideration. Experimenting with a variety of media enables me to capture the natural light in a variety of ways

Method to Media

Watercolor- free flowing, but can be quite challenging to manage the amount of water and reserve the white areas. It is always helpful to remember the paint will dry lighter. The impressionist results make it very appealing. Different techniques and different archival papers, such as wet in wet, dry brush, rubbing alcohol, negative painting, and detail work can alter the results. I have found it ideal for painting buildings, pet portraits, and small botanical paintings. Watercolor pencils are often included for intricate detail work. All watercolor paintings are completed on the highest quality Arches watercolor paper for its "tooth" and ability to hold up to the water application. The watercolor brushes used have short handles and natural fibers that can be reshaped easily.

Acrylic- dries quickly- can be a good and bad thing if en plein air. The paint is quite pliable, allowing many possibilities to enhance canvas with texture. It can be thinned or thickened as needed with water and numerous products. A medium applied with palette knife and blended with paint can yield realistic or impressionist effects.  Applying acrylic inks with acrylic paint is a fun way to create very vibrant landscapes.  Most acrylic paintings are completed on the highest grade gallery wrapped canvas. Occasionally, works are completed on acrylic paper, canvas panels, or watercolor paper. Subsequent layers of paint can be applied over previous ones, always mindful that acrylic paint tends to dry darker. A final layer of clear varnish is applied to preserve the end result.

Oil-  water soluble paints have many advantages- still has the look, feel, richness, and depth of color like regular oil paints thinned with solvents. It can take many days for a painting to thoroughly dry. Since the paint itself stays soft longer, a painting session can be continued later. The same brushes and palette knife used for acrylic painting can be used for oil painting. My preference is flat brushes and rounded tip ones, usually synthetic. I am also a fan of fan brushes in all sizes.

The Art of the Process

The next time you look at any type of artwork, think about the process that was involved. If possible, ask the artist about their choice of media.  They would no doubt be delighted to let you in on the process!

Escapism: Island Adventure Awaits

Have you ever wanted to just escape the routine of your daily life, albeit temporarily?

Do you sometimes find yourself wanting to simplify? 

 Dungeness Ruins on Cumberland Island, Ga

Would a trip to a remote island fit the bill?

While such a venture may not truly be possible, perhaps some brief escapism would. Come along with me on an imaginary escape. Daydream about warm sand between your toes with  the sounds of the ocean to fill your senses. Imagine pristine beaches and virtually undisturbed sand dunes.

Recently, my husband and I had the opportunity to explore the the unspoiled beauty of Georgia's coast. Artists by nature are always looking one place or another for inspiration when often it is right in front on you. This time called for real adventure- a bit of a departure from a typical beach trip with only a stay at a fine hotel. The Golden Isles on Georgia's coast offer many exciting opportunities, but if you really want to experience an unspoiled barrier island you have to visit Cumberland Island.  Here, the occasional neigh from a horse or the sight of an unusual bird seem commonplace.

Cumberland Island National Seashore at 18 miles in length, is the largest of Georgia's barrier islands. With the Atlantic Ocean on the eastern end and inlet rivers, sound, and marsh bordering other sides and throughout, the island abounds in history, natural beauty, and architecture. A plethora of feathered and four-legged inhabitants reside among the limited number of humans, including loggerhead sea turtles, wild turkeys, hogs, horses, and birds.

The only way to reach Cumberland Island is by ferry or private boat from St. Marys. Visitors can choose to go for the day or extend your stay and book an overnight campsite. There is also lodging available at the Greyfield Inn, a Carnegie mansion.

Once you arrive, you can either take a guided tour or follow any number of trails around the island. While not exactly deserted, there is an immediate sense of being "far from the maddening crowd"and civilization for that matter. Naturally, we chose the latter to begin our island exploration. The park rangers are very emphatic with their directives ahead of time. Particular cautionery point-avoid getting too close to the horses that roam freely. Despite appearances to the contrary, they are wild animals!

Want to know more?

https://www.nps.gov/cuis/index.htm

Surprises along the way

Despite the ferry being filled with people on the trip over, we saw few on our hikes around the island over several hours. Many times,  the only sounds heard in the maritime forests were our feet softly padding on the trails and the rustle of an animal nearby. Daunting to say to the least at times as you wander along. It is easy to imagine residents from long ago trodding these same paths.

What else can you do on Cumberland Island besides hiking?

Fishing, beach combing, biking, bird watching, swimming, wildlife watching, star gazing for campers, and plenty of photo opportunities

If you go...

If you are in need of an escape or break from the daily grind-consider a trip to an less-inhabited island. Undisturbed, unspoiled, natural beauty is a wonderful respite. If you go to Cumberland Island, be prepared with water or water bottle & snacks, wear insect repellant, and soak up every bit of scenery.

Even if you can't leave your physical surroundings, you can imagine.

Follow these tips by the National Park Service for a great experience.Cumberland Island,

You may never pass this way again, so tread carefully. As the park rangers remind, "Take nothing from the island with the exception of seashells... leave nothing behind so that this special place will continue as it is.

Thanks for reading! Happy island escape.

Marsh Memories

Have you ever found yourself wanting to make a special experience last?

Think about it.

If you could find a way to relive that favorite vacation memory everyday, would you want to know more?    

Certainly, in this digital age, we can easily capture and record any moment anytime we choose.

But what if you really wanted to incorporate that vacation memory into your daily life and surroundings? Imagine all the colors and textures involved.

What would be the best way to instantly relive such a blissful experience? Frankly, it seems that the best approach would be the use of art. Why you may ask?

With a piece of artwork, you can instantly relive the "vacation experience". And with vivid colors and realistic detailed texture.

Actually, the scenario described above fits my own experience too.  You see, My husband and I took a vacation a few years ago without the kids. Despite being grown, they were a little indignant that we would even consider a trip without them!

It gets better. On this return trip to Georgia's coast sans kids, we took in many experiences we had enjoyed when the kids were younger. During our visit to Jekyll Island, we decided to take an early morning bike ride around the island. Just the two of us. Just imagine.

Not to mention all the wildlife we spotted along the way. On this particular bright morning, we paused on the walkway to just observe. After snapping a few photos, I knew immediately I wanted to capture this experience in a painting.

The image below depicts the result of many layers.

It really takes me back.

Marsh  View Jekyll Island, GA  Susan Abell 

Can you relate? Do you have a special place you connected with on vacation?

You can relive that time in your home with art that speaks to your unique experience.

What's your favorite vacation memory?

The sights and sounds on an early morning, teaming with life connect you to the salt march. Painting depicts the coastal marsh of Jekyll Island, Georgia during the morning. Acrylic paint, gesso, and paper applied in layers to canvas to achieve textural effect, so you can always feel like you're near the marsh.

You can check out Marsh View on my website here, along with other paintings in my Coastal Collection.