Thursday, January 1, 2009

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!




Well, 2008 is now gone and we embark into another new year. I have a lot of exciting teaching opportunities lined up in Vermont and Pennsylvania for 2009. They should prove to be very memorable experiences indeed, and Glenda and I are looking forward to them. ( Please refer to my website for details and schedules - http://www.wilsonbickford.com/ )


Herein, I have included the last two paintings to come off my easel for 2008. The cardinal should come as no surprise to those of you who know me. Birds are one of my very favorite subjects and I never tire of painting them. Very recently, I sold a couple of cardinal originals ( Xmas gifts, I assume ), so I always try to have at least one or two on hand for the next customer.


Also, as stated in previous posts on this blog, I enjoy doing a nice floral now and then, hence the lilacs.


I'm actually considering some plein air painting for this Winter, as crazy as that may sound. I know of other artists who do it, so why not give it a try? Obviously, the key is to go out when it's "warmer" ( 30 degrees ) and not sub-zero. Also, I would think that a sunny day would lend a modicum of "solar" heat, however minimal. Not to mention that it would also enhance the drama of all the snow shadows. Bundling in layers would be a must. I'm definitely intrigued with the idea.

14 comments:

Mikes1024 said...

Hi Wilson..I seem to be having trouble leaving comments. Has anyone else reported this issue? Great job so far. Looking forward see reading more.

Wilson said...

Hi,
So far, no one has mentioned any problems with leaving comments. I've had a few remarks from some of my earlier posts, but none very recently. So, I'm not sure whether folks just aren't leaving any or simply having trouble doing so.
There are no "technical difficulties" that I'm aware of.

Wilson

Anonymous said...

I love this piece!!! Great work, found another blog to follow :) Have you checked out Tim Gagnon? He does really good bird paintings too.

Dawn

Wilson said...

Hi Dawn,
No, I'm not familiar with him, but I'll check it out.
I noticed from your profile that you're an artist, too! I'd love to see some of your work sometime.

Wilson

Mikes1024 said...

Hi Dawn...I also follow Tim Gagnon and I believe you are also following Kathy Herbert...she is my art teacher. I also love Wilson's work...he has some tutorials on YouTube which are awesome.

Wilson said...

Thanks for the compliment, Mike. I plan on doing more youtube vids, but just haven't decided what topics to highlight.
I don't really want to get into an 8-part painting, 'cause I don't think anyone watches every section anyway. I know I don't. I'll probably just stick with tips & techniques.

Wilson

Mikes1024 said...

Hi Wilson...from a previous post I get the impression you teach. Do you ever get to MASS?

Wilson said...

Well, I've been to Gloucester area before for vacation, but not in a teaching capacity. For the past 7 years running, I've done a week-long seminar for Alexander Art in Oregon. I've done workshops in Florida, and I'll be in Vermont
( twice ) and Pennsylvania this summer and fall. Never taught in MA yet, but would love to. I'm always open to new territory, though I try to keep my "long trips" to about 3 or 4 per year.
My book comes out in April and I think that will open the door to a lot more exposure and opportunities.
If you haven't been to my website, you'll find a ton of info, paintings, class schedules, etc. there.
www.wilsonbickford.com

Anonymous said...

Hi again!

Feel free to visit my blog :) I don't work professionally as an artist, I'm actually a fulltime dental receptionist ;) But I have sold 3 paintings since Sept this past year...possibly 4 as of tomorrow. I'd love to hear your comments :)

Mike, yes I actually just started following Kath's blog courtesy of your post on Tim's site :) Your lucky to have a great teacher! So when are you going to show your work :D Don't be shy!

Dawn

Anonymous said...

I plan on checking out your vids on youtube Wilson! Watch out for my friend request :)

Dawn

Wilson said...

Hi Dawn,
I did indeed visit your blog. Nice work! I especially like "Blue Light" and all of your "Sky Series". You have a broad range in your "style". Good luck on your fourth sale!
p.s.....I enjoyed your Dad's music, too!

Anonymous said...

I'm glad you liked my work :) And my dad's music. He and my brother are quite entertaining, they are trying to get more video's up on youtube...nothing on there yet. :)
Have a good day!

Dawn

Dion's Decorative Designs said...

Wilson, love the lilacs! It is great to see you doing florals and hope to do some with you soon!


Pam

Wilson said...

Hi Pam,
Yeah, I go into "floral mode" every now and then. It's funny how different subjects come to your mind on different days. I guess it's all dictated by mood. Who knows where inspiration comes from?