Art Weekend- Michigan

[artmidwife]

Hey all! I live at the edge of the thumb in Michigan. I would love to host a weekend (we have room for 8 to sleep). We live on a 450 acre (prior working up to the 80's) farm. I'd like to do it in the fall because the colors are unbelieveable. There are hot air balloon races that go right over our house. There are deer, turkey, pheasant, many different birds, and the foliage is amazing. The Hunt Club goes right by our house on their fox hunts--in full regalia! What a site, and sound!

If anyone is interested let me know. I am out in the "Boonies" so I'll understand if I don't get any takers. But think about it.

Lisa:cat:

[Emilia]

Originally posted by artmidwife
Hey all! I live at the edge of the thumb in Michigan. I would love to host a weekend (we have room for 8 to sleep). We live on a 450 acre (prior working up to the 80's) farm. I'd like to do it in the fall because the colors are unbelieveable. There are hot air balloon races that go right over our house. There are deer, turkey, pheasant, many different birds, and the foliage is amazing. The Hunt Club goes right by our house on their fox hunts--in full regalia! What a site, and sound!

If anyone is interested let me know. I am out in the "Boonies" so I'll understand if I don't get any takers. But think about it.

Lisa:cat:

It sounds real great! Good luck!

[TinaLee]

Lisa,

I live too far away to attend, but I grew up not far from you, in Port Huron. Had no idea your town was there at all! Michigan can be really beautiful, especially with all of the different bodies of water running through and around it. And you're right about fall being a pretty time of year. Is it flat or hilly where you live? Much of southern Michigan is flat, but there are hills, and nice, steep riverbanks in some places.

Haven't been there in over four years, and I really miss the Lake (Huron) and being so close to Canada. Sigh.... I don't miss those overcast winter skies, though!

Tina

[artmidwife]

TinaLee-
My Mom lived in Port Huron for a few years (actually Lakeport). It is wonderful there. I live farther west, in horse country. Yes, the waterways and fall colors are great!:D Thanks for writing.

Emilia-
It will be fun. Think about it.

Lisa

[Helen]

I'm on the other side of the state and may be able to make it if it's in the fall. Summer is incredibly busy over here.

And Michigan is not all flat -- visit West Michigan some time, we have lots of rolling hills and sand dunes.

Helen

[artmidwife]

Helen--That would be great. I am starting to look forward to this. I hope someons shows up. If not, I'll paint and take pictures anyway.

Lisa

[pinkbubelz]

Lisa, I understand that you may have already done your weekend thing but I'd be interested for the future.
I'm from the Detroit Area.

:-)

[pampe]

You should talk to Larry Seiler about possibly coming to do a workshop...he's not THAT far from you!

[pinkbubelz]

I just saw on another thread that they are doing a huge weekend event in Big Rapids this weekend. Sure wish I had joined (and found) this board earlier in the year!)

I'd love to meet up with some other local artists!

--Iris

[artmidwife]

Sorry about not holding the art weekend, maybe something this spring?
Pampe-who is Larry Seiler, and what types of workshops does he hold? More info please.

artmidwife

[Krayim]

West Michigan is a wonderful place for artists...many have studios in the area that are open to the public. We have it all...rolling dunes on Lake Michigan, orchard farming further inland...it really is inspiring.

[gcooper]

Boy am I sorry I found this site late in life. What a marvelous idea. I would have gone....is it driveable from New Jersey, I don't know. I am a Missouri girl moved to NJ 10 years ago and still learning how to get around. A Michigan art trip does sound pretty good to me. I am so sorry I didn't find this wonderful site earlier. I am addicted. I go read and then go paint, read, paint, read and paint. What fun.

[irish artist]

Lisa, I'd like to be on the list for a Art Weekend if you plan to have another in the new year of 2004. Let me know.

[pinkbubelz]

Now that the new year has started, I think we should make plans for something this spring or summer!

There are all sorts of cool places to travel in Michigan! Is anyone up for getting something started?

--Iris

[artmidwife]

:clap: :clap: I'd love to host the art weekend. I live on a large farm in Metamora, MI which is near Flint, MI. Let's get some suggestions of dates!!

Lisa

[Meloncollie]

Hey Helen, Krayim - where are you at in West Michigan? I live in Greenville, in Montcalm county ^-^

[leverettfinn]

:clap: :clap: I'd love to host the art weekend. I live on a large farm in Metamora, MI which is near Flint, MI. Let's get some suggestions of dates!!

Lisa


Fun! I'm in Oxford....close to Metamora!

[artmidwife]

How cool!! Maybe we can host the weekend together. Or maybe meet. Don't worry, I'm not an axe murderer. I have 6 cats, 4 dogs and ducks and chickens. :angel: Let's keep in touch.
Lisa

[leverettfinn]

How cool!! Maybe we can host the weekend together. Or maybe meet. Don't worry, I'm not an axe murderer. I have 6 cats, 4 dogs and ducks and chickens. :angel: Let's keep in touch.
Lisa

Sounds like lots of fun! any Detroit area folks want to just meet for lunch or dinner in the near future???
Lauren

[LarrySeiler]

Just as an introduction...(since Pam mentioned my name here in this thread), first of all, I am a moderator of a number of forums here at Wetcanvas and been part of this community a long time.

I live in NE Wisconsin, have a cabin in the Marquette, Michigan greater area by Lake Superior.

I painted wildlife competitively for the past 20 some years, and that stuff can be read about on my website. For the past 7 years or so I have been painting primarily plein air alla prima.

I am a member of NAPPAP, the "National Academy of Professional Plein Air Painters" and my posts carry signature links for all things.

Northern Wisconsin, and Michigan have frustratingly been well kept secrets in the country for the pristine beauty it yields for painters. For one, the area does not offer many ammenities for the affluent...few $14 million dollar homes going up, and much of the economy here is by blue collar (hard) workers. As a result, there are few artist hubs or communities where the affluent frequent such as Laguna Beach, CA or Taos, NM...Sedonna, AZ or Jackson Hole, WY for example. Such places draw tourists from around the country while at the same time someone building an $8 million dollar home in the affluent surrounding area looks for a $10,000 painting to put on their walls next to a $30,000 bronze sculpture.

Western Michigan bordering Lake Michigan has a relatively cool string of galleries, and upper Door County in Wisconsin has a pretty decent hub, but the really really big consistent presence of art culture and money spent has eluded the region as compared to coastal cultures.

I refer to my own area as a football/beer culture...and given the average Wisconsinite has the choice to spend $45 on an art print or makings for a football tailgate party.

My work is in a number of galleries, with most patrons being tourists up from Illinois, (Chicago), from Minnesota and abroad.

The mountains are impressive out west, no denial...absolutely breath taking, though for those of us familiar with the midwest...the color, shape and form of a mix of pine species, deciduous hardwoods, popples, birch...you name it, often with rolling hills, and the many many fresh water bodies of lakes, rivers and streams presents a palette to the eyes few understand.

I live in the Nicolet National Forest 30 miles south of upper Michigan, surrounded by dense forests, mega waterfalls...a total of 1200 lakes, rivers and streams as example.

I've painted a great deal in northern Michigan.

I do try and get a feel for a universal beauty that patrons can connect to throughout the country while at the same time respond to the intimacy of that which we experience and know best.

I've been attempting for a couple years now to assemble a growing list of names of serious painters that paint from nature via plein air (to paint on location) here in the northern Midwest which includes Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota. I even have a few that want to come up from Illinois and Iowa to paint.

Like my NAPPAP association, I envision eventually an apprentice level and professional.

We actually have a late 1800's Impressionist history that is for the most part unknown. Early German immigrants living in the Milwaukee area of Wisconsin worked in a company to produce gigantic painted backdrops for movies known as the Panoramic Painters. They would get together on free time to paint plein air abroad, many having had Impressionist type training in Europe prior to coming here. From this the Wisconsin Painters and Sculptors group evolved from.

Perhaps the best known link back to this period, a child of this movement, was Richard Earl Thompson
http://www.impressionistprints.com/biographythompson.htm

Check out my site if you will...and I enjoy good conversations about painting outdoors, responding to nature's beauty...spiritual rejuvenation (joy) thru the celebration of the vehicle of painting, you name it.

I am busy working on a CD Rom e-book on painting...and look forward to a time when an association evolves for occasional and even frequent get togethers for painting. It is a matter of time. Trends of the coastal areas (east and west) do tend to trickle down to us in time...and it would be great to be at the forefront of all this when it does, don't you think!
peace,

Larry

[artmidwife]

Larry, thanks for all that info. We'd love for you to come and show us some tips and techniques. What time of year do you feel is best? All of them. I know!! The Marquette area is incredible, though I've only been there when there is snow on the ground. I'd love to host this weekend. Let us know if you are interested in attending. Your art is very lovely.

artmidwife

[leverettfinn]

Wow Larry...I love your enthusiasm...I have only painted plein air a couple of times...I would be very interested in your midwest plein air gatherings...

Lauren

[pinkbubelz]

Hey all,
I'm in Northwestern suburbs of Detroit. :-)

I've actually been to Marquette once and have been up to Houghton, Copper Harbor and near the Lake in the Clouds in the Porcupine Mountains.

AND, I have also been near Metamora before! :-)

Yes, northern Michigan is GREAT!!! :-)

I work until May and have the summers off...Let's get some buzz about a spring/summer retreat... :-) I love going to the Traverse City area, and near the Sleeping Bear dunes, (I don't mind Camping) but other areas are open to me as well...

I'm primarily an Oil painter and love to do photography, also drawing and stone or terracotta sculptures... Pretty much a bit of everything! Recently, I've gotten into doing more digital photography and manipulations...

More, Later!

--Iris

[LarrySeiler]

summers would be best for me...

I've been playing with the Pictured Rocks area as well, our own tract of National Park...or lakeshore, which is fair area for the National Arts for the Parks competition scenery. Anyone spent time up there?

We have a bit of time...I have to sit down with a calendar and give it some serious thought, and no saying a couple times to perhaps get together might not be nice. In time a northern midwest connection??

Up front I know that I have a couple exhibitions and festival dates...June 19-20 out, July 8-11, and August 28-29 are also filled. I'll have some blues/folk gigs too that I play, but those fill in and around my painting schedule and are more flexible. Ohhhh....and I'm planning to meet some WC artists in Chicago sometime this summer to take in a Seurat Impressionist show at the Art Institute, visit some galleries and paint.

I think it might be fun if any were interested if we initiated a Michigan reference photo file to highlight and feature areas we've visited to inspire potential lurkers! Whatcha think? :D

Larry

[artmidwife]

Larry- Great ideas--especially the photos in the image library. I have some of mine there, in a couple areas. I also have some at Webshots.com under the name betbegin1.

How does the beginning of August sound for everyone? I have an artist friend in Traverse City. And I've been to 'Broken Rocks' in the tip of the thumb area. We have a place there, too, and there are lots of campgrounds there. But, I'd love to host it. Metamora is great. Horse country. :clap: And we have loads of room for sleeping and/or camping.

Lisa

summers would be best for me...

I've been playing with the Pictured Rocks area as well, our own tract of National Park...or lakeshore, which is fair area for the National Arts for the Parks competition scenery. Anyone spent time up there?

We have a bit of time...I have to sit down with a calendar and give it some serious thought, and no saying a couple times to perhaps get together might not be nice. In time a northern midwest connection??

Up front I know that I have a couple exhibitions and festival dates...June 19-20 out, July 8-11, and August 28-29 are also filled. I'll have some blues/folk gigs too that I play, but those fill in and around my painting schedule and are more flexible. Ohhhh....and I'm planning to meet some WC artists in Chicago sometime this summer to take in a Seurat Impressionist show at the Art Institute, visit some galleries and paint.

I think it might be fun if any were interested if we initiated a Michigan reference photo file to highlight and feature areas we've visited to inspire potential lurkers! Whatcha think? :D

Larry

[Helen]

:clap: Hi All, I've been away for awhile and have missed all this interest in Michigan... great! I'm actually in two areas of Michigan... I live in Grand Haven which is another potential painting spot... beaches, marinas, sand dunes, old houses, wonderful gardens. And, at least once a month I'm on the eastern side of the state with my mother who lives on Union Lake -- that was once a picturesque place but it is now overrun with huge houses -- however, nearby Milford is still quaint, and horse country like Metamora. I'll have to wait and see what dates you pick. I already have a week planned in Traverse City but am not sure what those dates will be -- I'm at the mercy of my brother -- it's his place and a friend and I go there for a week to paint every summer -- have to wait for him to decide which week he's willing to give it up.

I also like the idea of a Michigan reference photo file. We have so many beautiful spots between the two peninsulas! No idea how to set it up but if someone sets it up I'll add photos from my area.

[pinkbubelz]

Ohh a reference photo area would be great!!!

I loved the pictured rocks area!!!

I have always wanted to do plein air but seem to carry WAYYY too much around with me (paints, brushes, etc...) and am not sure how well oil paints can travel.. Usually, I have a toolbox on wheels (I got at the local K-Mart) that has all sorts of little compartments to carry stuff in.... I also just bought a french easel... (although it seems quite heavy to me!)

I have recently invested in some artist colors vs. the student grade paints.. since the pigments are supposed to be denser and the tubes are smaller, perhaps I will learn to manage without having 50 lbs. of gear to lug around!
I've also invested in a digicam, although I realize that that still isn't the same as looking at the real location...

I'd love to learn about plein air-- I have done very little in terms of landscapes, my main focus has usually been people or still lifes (mostly people!)... so this would be a fresh change for me!

I'm also off in the summertime, so I'd be up for a day trip to the thumb area for anyone else who would be interested..

--Iris

[LarrySeiler]

I'm workin' on trying to find out the proper protocol to initiate a new category or a personal one for the reference photo library...will let ch'all know...

Larry

[LarrySeiler]

I'm workin' on trying to find out the proper protocol to initiate a new category or a personal one for the reference photo library...will let ch'all know...

Larry

okay...done deal.

Click on Image Library link above...

then click on "Search" listed among links just below recent images shown.

you'll see categories come up, but don't bother as my stuff won't be listed there. Just type my name (no space), "LarrySeiler" in the user name search and hit go...

perhaps this link will work-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/RefLib/showgallery.php?cat=&mcats=all&si=&what=allfields&name=LarrySeiler&when=&whenterm=

I put up about umteen pictures today of some of my jaunts around upper Michigan...enjoy!

Larry

[Shelley Grund]

Hello, all,
I live in NE Wisconsin - near Green Bay/Appleton... and would really be interested in a painting opportunity with like minded individuals in the beautifyl country being discussed :clap: ! I'll keep reading this thread... and I hope to be informed if/when something is scheduled... at this time my calendar is very flexible.
Shelley

[Helen]

okay...done deal.

Click on Image Library link above...

then click on "Search" listed among links just below recent images shown.

you'll see categories come up, but don't bother as my stuff won't be listed there. Just type my name (no space), "LarrySeiler" in the user name search and hit go...

perhaps this link will work-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/RefLib/showgallery.php?cat=&mcats=all&si=&what=allfields&name=LarrySeiler&when=&whenterm=

I put up about umteen pictures today of some of my jaunts around upper Michigan...enjoy!

Larry


I checked it by using the link you put in; also tried going at it by typing your name in and searching and didn't have much luck. That may be my computer; it's acting funny lately. I love the images you have of your area. I hate assumptions so I'm asking -- do we put our Michigan images in your folder?

[LarrySeiler]

Yes...so folks know, I've been going back and forth with Ivyleaf, and she has been extremely generous with her time helping me.

We now have an official "Plein Air" category where scenes can be shared of good places to paint. Within that category are subfolders or the potential for such.

Ivyleaf only asks that we detail where the scene is and not something as simple as, "out my backyard"...(wherever that might be...for example)

So...as I understand it then, all Michigan images should go in the Michigan folder. Ivy also asks that if we start a new sub folder of another state that at least a dozen images go into that folder to initiate it....

take care!!!

Larry

[LarrySeiler]

Hello, all,
I live in NE Wisconsin - near Green Bay/Appleton... and would really be interested in a painting opportunity with like minded individuals in the beautifyl country being discussed :clap: ! I'll keep reading this thread... and I hope to be informed if/when something is scheduled... at this time my calendar is very flexible.
Shelley

Hey Shelley...welcome. I am two hours north of you or so in the Nicolet National Forest. Lived 26 years in Green Bay, and yes...a season ticket holder! hahahaha.... nice to hear of your interest to join along in a paint together.

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

Bumping this up-- We should start planning soon for this spring! :-)

BTW-- I will be in Lansing on May 2nd for my first one-woman art show! I'd love to see a few other WC artists stop by and say hello!

--Iris

[LarrySeiler]

I've been asked privately by a few folks to consider holding a workshop somewhere up in Michigan as well....and it might best work for everyone if a few of you just choose a date to get together and whoever can make it fine.

In the meantime, I will look into the greater Marquette area...and begin dialog with proprietors for lodging, food...and other details. There are beaches of great opportunity, waterfalls, lighthouses, you name it.

I don't know already being February if I can do justice to put together a workshop with what might amount to so short a notice for everyone. Then again that might be more a problem for those out of the region but if perhaps a few Michiganites would be interested and the Marquette/Munising area did not seem so far away it might yet work for this summer. We'll see....
For lurkers...you can check out my own website to see some of the cool places up there that I paint.
peace

Larry

[Shelley Grund]

So - Mapquest says I'm approximately 4 hours and 13 mins from Marquette, MI. Close enough for me ... guess we might be talking a weekend... but weekdays may be easier to schedule as far as hotels at this late date... What do you think?
Shelley

[pinkbubelz]

Marquette is quite a drive from the Detroit Area...especially if the weather is bad...
However, I'd be open for doing something during the summer, depending on the dates... I've also camped up in that area with my hubby, so we would enjoy going back sometime....

Keep us informed!

OR, if we can meet somewhere near the Taquamenon falls, that might be better for everyone (equally far away from Detroit and Wisconsin... ;)

--Iris


I've been asked privately by a few folks to consider holding a workshop somewhere up in Michigan as well....and it might best work for everyone if a few of you just choose a date to get together and whoever can make it fine.

In the meantime, I will look into the greater Marquette area...and begin dialog with proprietors for lodging, food...and other details. There are beaches of great opportunity, waterfalls, lighthouses, you name it.

I don't know already being February if I can do justice to put together a workshop with what might amount to so short a notice for everyone. Then again that might be more a problem for those out of the region but if perhaps a few Michiganites would be interested and the Marquette/Munising area did not seem so far away it might yet work for this summer. We'll see....
For lurkers...you can check out my own website to see some of the cool places up there that I paint.
peace

Larry

[Helen]

Bumping this up-- We should start planning soon for this spring! :-)

BTW-- I will be in Lansing on May 2nd for my first one-woman art show! I'd love to see a few other WC artists stop by and say hello!

--Iris

Where is the show going to be in Lansing?

[LarrySeiler]

Marquette is quite a drive from the Detroit Area...especially if the weather is bad...
However, I'd be open for doing something during the summer, depending on the dates... I've also camped up in that area with my hubby, so we would enjoy going back sometime....

Keep us informed!

OR, if we can meet somewhere near the Taquamenon falls, that might be better for everyone (equally far away from Detroit and Wisconsin... ;)

--Iris

teaching a workshop would more or less necessarily be the summer for me if I were to travel. Not familiar with Taquamenon....one disadvantage- only been as far east as Grand Marais...still, Munising, Castle Rock, Miner's Falls, lighthouses....Pictured Rocks...beaches are all within an hour of the falls area.

Having driven just this past summer...its a long barren stretch to Grand Marais from Munising. Not real familiar with what is available for accomodations farther east...but there is not much 'till you get to Munising. Paradise is about 12 miles east of the falls....then there is Whitefish Bay...any idea what is there?
Miners Falls-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-minersfalls.jpg

Castle Rock-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-small_vertical.jpg

Forgot the name of the lighthouse for the moment, not too far west of Grand Marais. I was there two summers ago, and the park ranger there was trying to interest me in applying for an artist in residence right there at the light house. I could paint and such..but would be required to give a number of tours and such. Would be interesting. Unfortunately...to paint there is not for the feint of heart, as its about a 1-2 mile walk carry in.
Larry

[LarrySeiler]

as for the Marquette area...here's some of what you can expect to see there-

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-beach_rock_trees.jpg http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-pocket_beach.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-rocks_water72.jpg

here is a view of Presque Isle, and a 16" x 20" plein air I did on that spot-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-presqueisle.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-presque_isle_view.jpg

and a little 6" x 9" pochade oil study I did on the public beach of Marquette of the coastguard station there-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-marquette_coastguard_station.jpg

just some ideas...

I have lots of pics of this area...and the Pictured Rocks...

Larry

[Helen]

Looks like a great place to paint Larry; however, I don't think I will be able to get away long enough to go that far. At least not this summer. I already have to spend time at least once a month on the other side of the state caring for my mother. And, I do a couple art fairs and a week retreat.

If someone plans an outing somewhere down here I will certainly try to make it.

[irish artist]

Larry's photos are great! I'm just a newbie oil painter but I'd love to go to an outdoor paint-get-together, so count me in if you set up an event, Larry

[irish artist]

Where is the show going to be in Lansing?


to Helen, Are you entered in the Winterfest Art Show at the Gallery Uptown in Grand Haven? I've love to go see your art. I'm the "Iris Summer" watercolor. Anyone in Helens area of Grand Haven would love to go and paint the town, it has it all, beach, lighthouse, quaint shops, forest areas

[Helen]

to Helen, Are you entered in the Winterfest Art Show at the Gallery Uptown in Grand Haven? I've love to go see your art. I'm the "Iris Summer" watercolor. Anyone in Helens area of Grand Haven would love to go and paint the town, it has it all, beach, lighthouse, quaint shops, forest areas

Yes, I'm in the show... "The Minstrel" I'm a regular in the gallery too so have work there all the time. I'll check your's next time I'm downtown.

You're right, this is a great place to paint. If I can ever get my photos organized I'll put up some images which may intice people

[pinkbubelz]

Where is the show going to be in Lansing?


THE SHow WILL Be at a little gallery in the "old Town Lansing" area.

About 3 or 4 miles West of East Lansing (Michigan State University) and on Grand River Ave. and Turner street.

The name of The gallery is called "Absolute Gallery" I don't think they have a website yet.

However, I have a yahoo group, where I email an "update" on my works monthly.

If you'd like to be included, let me know-- I will be sending out invitations via email and snail mail in April.
(only 1-1/2 months away!)

Send me a PM (Private Message) and I'll add you to my yahoo group.

--Iris
:-)

[pinkbubelz]

as for the Marquette area...here's some of what you can expect to see there-

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-beach_rock_trees.jpg http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-pocket_beach.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-rocks_water72.jpg

here is a view of Presque Isle, and a 16" x 20" plein air I did on that spot-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-presqueisle.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-presque_isle_view.jpg

and a little 6" x 9" pochade oil study I did on the public beach of Marquette of the coastguard station there-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Feb-2004/532-marquette_coastguard_station.jpg

just some ideas...

I have lots of pics of this area...and the Pictured Rocks...

Larry

Lovely pictures Larry-- The paintings definitely reflect the scene!

I have some photos I took up there in Black and White... I haven't really done much in terms of landscapes (mostly figurative and some abstract works). I just got back some of my slide from when I went to Yellowstone Nat'l Park. I hope to be able to create some paintings from them soon.

By the way, how long did it take you to paint these 2 pictures?
I just bought a french easel I haven't used it yet. I would love to get some tips as to how to best use it on the spot!

---Iris

[Helen]

to Helen, Are you entered in the Winterfest Art Show at the Gallery Uptown in Grand Haven? I've love to go see your art. I'm the "Iris Summer" watercolor. Anyone in Helens area of Grand Haven would love to go and paint the town, it has it all, beach, lighthouse, quaint shops, forest areas

I worked at the gallery today so had a chance to see "Iris Summer," very nicely done.

[LarrySeiler]

By the way, how long did it take you to paint these 2 pictures?
I just bought a french easel I haven't used it yet. I would love to get some tips as to how to best use it on the spot!

---Iris

about 1-1/2 hours each...one being larger made not much difference as one uses larger brushes and larger piles of buttery thick paint.
thanks for the comments...

just remember...it takes about 120 bad paintings to learn something about painting so the best thing is to be kind to yourself and not over expect from yourself. See it as celebration, the paint as a vehicle to celebrate, and have fun. Observe, see...paint and imitate....

later

Larry

[LarrySeiler]

Larry's photos are great! I'm just a newbie oil painter but I'd love to go to an outdoor paint-get-together, so count me in if you set up an event, Larry

I personally enjoy oils...but, as an educator and artist that loves variation I have developed cross over with various medias over the years; a default of age I suppose. Watercolors, 20 years with acrylics. I also do pastels..but do them over acrylic underpaintings.

What I'm saying is...if things work out where I'm doing a workshop, you won't have to feel restricted in your choice of medium. I'm interested in students learning to see, bringing them from where they are, what they are comfortable with and good at to becoming better.

I apologize showing these in a way..because this forum and thread is not really all about me and don't want to appear as if I'm desperately trying to drum up students. I'm not. If it works out we get together or not, I'm fine either way. Just want people to understand though...I'm versatile; don't feel you'll be limited to oils.

Here's a watercolor sample of mine-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Feb-2004/532-peshtigo_earlyfall72.jpg

AND a pastel-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Feb-2004/532-wetmore5.jpg

Tell you what is important to me as an alla prima plein airist...and that is NOT having to think about my medium. I want to be SOooo comfortable with my medium that all my focus is on my subject.

If someone wishes to try oils...and it might be a first time effort, sure I can help. There is no this or that though when it comes to medium. Experiencing nature...discovering the root of your impression and why you respond as you do...and then nailing down those few essentials that will make your statement an optimum one for you is where I am coming from.
peace

Larry

[irish artist]

I don't think anyone in this site has thought that Larry was promoting himself, or trying to set up a workshop by using this thread. We have all looked at the photos, art samples with the idea of an open air get-together. I'm glad Larry said that we could use any mediumn and he's also offering a selection of sights that we would enjoy. Larry has gone out of his way to promote the idea and to try to interest people. Thanks Larry, we all appreciate it.

[Helen]

I don't think anyone in this site has thought that Larry was promoting himself, or trying to set up a workshop by using this thread. We have all looked at the photos, art samples with the idea of an open air get-together. I'm glad Larry said that we could use any mediumn and he's also offering a selection of sights that we would enjoy. Larry has gone out of his way to promote the idea and to try to interest people. Thanks Larry, we all appreciate it.

Amen!

[artmidwife]

I'm thinking the end of May and/or September. What does everyone else want? :cat:

artmidwife

[Helen]

I'm thinking the end of May and/or September. What does everyone else want? :cat:

artmidwife


Both would be good. I'm not likely to be able to join you all in the UP in May but if it's down here somewhere I will. By September I may be able to get away for a trip to the UP and I have a friend who may want to join us. In fact, she may want to join us either way... she's recently retired from her day job and will now have more time to spend making art.

[pinkbubelz]

I'm thinking the end of May and/or September. What does everyone else want? :cat:

artmidwife


I work from September through May, so I would prefer something over the summer....

Beginning of June or End of August might work for me... :-) actually, pretty much any time during summer would work as well! I just need to know at least 6 weeks in advance to to my involvement with other community activities.

--Iris

[Shelley Grund]

My son's wedding is in May - would like it any other month than that one!
Shelley

[irish artist]

Anyone planning a weekend in the UP in May, June or July and better wear heavy outdoor, insulated clothes. I was in the Porcupine Mts. National Park in late July and It was COLD. Another time I went to the Straits of Mackinaw in July, same story.

[Shelley Grund]

How about the end of June or there abouts. Here in Wisconsin the bugs come out in August so would want to avoid that month. Cool weather is fine with me - can always wear more clothes! Besides, would be nice to sit around with the group getting warm in the evening discussing our painting experiences. I'll throw a date out - how about Friday June 25 - Sun. June 27. I'd like to make it longer - say start on Wed or Thurs. - but I know work and family may not make it possible of many. What do you guys think?
Shelley

[LarrySeiler]

Anyone planning a weekend in the UP in May, June or July and better wear heavy outdoor, insulated clothes. I was in the Porcupine Mts. National Park in late July and It was COLD. Another time I went to the Straits of Mackinaw in July, same story.

Might depend where in the UP you are actually...I have a cabin six miles from Marquette and spend much of June, July in the UP...and do not find this the case at all. August can get quite hot, and referred to as dog days like anywhere else.

Mid to late June is some great small mouth bass fishing...and usually I wear shorts, and maybe a lined windbreaker toward the evening. I often trout fish and find myself sweating in my waders despite chilly trout stream waters.

July sees 80-89 degree temperatures and many locals are swimming on the beaches regardless of the fact that Lake Superior's waters never rise about 53-57 degrees.

Many people are kayaking around islands...a great deal of roller blading and mountain biking and so forth.

After one of my painting demos painting a plein air near Presque Isle on my webpage...(if you checked it out I have a couple mpegs), I was so hot and fried in the sun I went and dove in the nearby Lake Superior.

I found it quite warm in the summer along the national lakeshore of Pictured Rocks as well. People in shorts riding their mountain bikes along campground trails.

Nights can get chilly...

Larry

[Helen]

How about the end of June or there abouts. Here in Wisconsin the bugs come out in August so would want to avoid that month. Cool weather is fine with me - can always wear more clothes! Besides, would be nice to sit around with the group getting warm in the evening discussing our painting experiences. I'll throw a date out - how about Friday June 25 - Sun. June 27. I'd like to make it longer - say start on Wed or Thurs. - but I know work and family may not make it possible of many. What do you guys think?
Shelley


I'll pencil it in; depends on where it is. I would love to do the UP with Larry but I won't be able to do that in June

[pinkbubelz]

I think Late July might be good!
End of June as well.
I just need to know enough ahead of time so that my hubby can get the time off of work.

--Iris

[LarrySeiler]

I'll throw a date out - how about Friday June 25 - Sun. June 27. I'd like to make it longer - say start on Wed or Thurs. - but I know work and family may not make it possible of many. What do you guys think?
Shelley

I noted the dates in my handheld..
I might have an arts/music festival to attend where I speak in seminars and demonstrate...Lifest, Oshkosh....I'll check their dates.

Okay...I checked, Lifest is July 8-11...another fest is July 1-4...and I have Artstreet in Green Bay on August 27-28. Good grief golly all mighty, summer's not even here and startin' to feel as though its already done!
:)

There is another event..."Gallery Days" that was held last year weekend of June 21-22...and they've been wanting me to participate. Trying to find the date for this year, but it will probably fall close to the same, I imagine third weekend, 19th-20th. So far this last weekend of June seems safely open....

Larry

[irish artist]

Sounds good to me, anyone else?

[Shelley Grund]

Hey - this just might happen ??? Anyone else out there good for those dates?

[nancymae]

Larry, you are right about Gallery Days being the third weekend of the month...which would be June 19 and 20th. However, as much as I would LOVE!!! to be out there, I have already been accepted for a show the next weekend in Menomonie MI. :-( If you guys decide to change...I'll be checking back, but other than that...I WON'T BE ABLE TO MAKE IT!!

Welcome Shelley to our "little" group!! I know you...met you last summer when I got in the Wisconsin Painter's and Sculptors group!! Met your little horses too!! I'm sure you will LOVE this group....much learning here!!!

I'll be watching this thread for possible "other dates" that may be thrown out there!

Nancy

[Emilia]

Ohhhhhhh "G" I wish that I was closer to you guys. It sounds as a great artist together.

Anyone going to the Internatonal Art Exhibit in New York this month?
I will be there on Sunday Feb 29 2004 just to look around. May be next year will exhibit.

(Hey what happen to the spell check) I miss it! I need it!

[leverettfinn]

June 25-27 sound good to me! Where???

Lauren

[pinkbubelz]

By the way, I'd like to invite the "locals" in Michigan to come and attend my gallery show (my 1st one!). I'm still getting the details together, but here is the basic info... Right now, I think the website for the gallery is "under construction, but at least you will get an idea of the locatin.

Artist Reception for Iris Shen-Van Buren
Sunday, May 2, 2004
12pm - 5 pm
Absolute Gallery
307 East Grand River Avenue, Lansing, MI 48906
(517) 482-8845 (gallery phone)
http://www.absolutegallery.net/

If anyone's interested, I also have a Yahoo Group email list where I send out info periodically about my work (about once a month)... My yahoo group is also still "under construction", but there are a couple of samples of my work there as well.... :-) All you have to do is to send an email to the following and I can add you to my list:

IrisSVB-Art-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

***********************

I'm looking forward to meeting some of my fellow WC artists this summer! :)
Right now, my schedule is pretty wide open, but who knows how it will change in the next few months...

[LarrySeiler]

Figured since we have the attention of Michigan painters/artists here I might share with you how we have been working bit by bit to create an association for plein air painters in the northern Midwest.

Two possibilities exist, one to create something that establishes a professional level and an apprenticeship level similar to some of the national associations...or rather, two- an umbrella online website that gives room for independent smaller pockets of artist groups to exist but one collective site online to share information on exhibitions, shows, paint outs, invitationals, member webpages and so forth. I will paste a letter I sent out this morning which is the equivalent I suppose of an unofficial newsletter.

Those artists in southern Michigan are close enough to Indiana perhaps to come under their umbrella if Indiana is so inclined, and I don't want to presume uninvited to this point that Indiana is far enough north to consider a larger extension of a region to be represented. At any rate...here is that letter, and if we are to discuss this further I wonder what forum might be more appropriate? A moderator might at such a time consider moving us properly where such discussion should take place, but would no doubt leave a forwarding link here for people to follow.

Here's that paste with few edits to make sense, for your interest-

- - - - -
Let me share some of what has been happening on the national scene of plein air of recent. A couple years ago...Linda Blondheim and David Johnson created a website and newsletter for Florida plein air painters...as Linda says herself-

"We have wisely limited PAF (Plein Air Florida) to an internet group only. Every Group in Florida joins, but we do not interfere with the actual management of area groups. We let them run their own show, preferring to be a clearing house for plein air information for the at large plein air community in FLorida. We also have an invitational group for painters who live in other states but travel to Florida. I am happy to say that we have been far more successful than we could have imagined in the beginning."

I remember Linda reporting on a 4 day paint out event they held, with about 23 or so painters participating. It was a well planned event, advertised, and sales were reserved for the weekend (if my memory serves me right), and they enjoyed excellent sales. A nice way to really kick an association off to be sure!

To check on Plein Air Florida and their website, I provide a link here-
http://www.pleinairflorida.com

speaking with Marilyn Witt of Indiana, she reports the following about their plein air association there-

"I wanted to tell you we here in Indiana have had an organization
IPAPA, Indiana Plein Air Painters Assoc. for 7 or 8 years now.
We have, I think, 300+ members now. We have paintouts nearly
every month, except December, sometimes two. Sometimes 50
or more show up somtimes 30+. We have some lasting 3 or 4 days,
some one. We have competitions, sales, meetings, bonfires (not for our
paintings) (we discovered some play music too and have a great time),
classes, workshops and other happenings. We have about 6 on the board,
I was a board member a year or so ago."

Indiana's plein air association website- http://www.inpainters.org

NAPPAP (National Academy of Professional Plein Air Painters) is a professional national scene plein air association that I am member to, with 35 professional painters and nine apprentices. This association has a high standard set for excellence and works to make its mark on the national scene. Potential membership must be discussed and voted on by existing members. This is similar to the PAPA (Plein Air Painters of America)...however painters must attend two PAPA event paintouts by invitation and thereby be elected to membership.
http://nhstudios.com/NAPPAP/NAPPAPFrameSet.html

Closer to home...we have a small group of ten plein air painters in the Chicago area currently...Kathie Newman appears to be a spokes person for the group and gives us this information-

"...we have a group here in Chicago (PAPC) that has been painting Saturday mornings even throughout the winter! Of course, not everyone is equally adventurous but we send out an email for the location and see who shows up. We've been enjoying city parks, Chinatown, Michigan Avenue and excursions further out to the country. This weekend we've been invited indoors to paint in the Lincoln Park Conservatory ~ a warm, humid place to hang out for a change.
Maybe we could put the word out and get a larger paint out going every once in awhile. I know the Great Lakes Pastel Society has had an annual event. Last year they painted around the beautiful Lelanau Peninsula I think in July.
Let me know if anyone is interested in being contacted for a future event in Chicago! We're thinking of hooking up with area conservationists to host a possible fundraising competition. Kathie Newman"
www.kathleennewman.com

Basing information from the "Events" forum of Wetcanvas.com...we have been planning a paint get together with painters in Michigan's UP for this up and coming summer, tentatively planning on Friday June 25th thru the 27th.

In the image resource library of Wetcanvas...we have begun also folders based upon states showing photos of areas, thus giving painters an idea what one can look forward to in traveling to an area to paint. We began with Michigan...and will expand. I'll be starting a Wisconsin one very soon.

Gigi reports having a small group of plein air painters in Minnesota and South Dakota that would be interested in pulling into our association with these words-

"As you know, I would dearly like to find fellow Minnesota artists for regular paint outs. If you would keep me in the loop with your plans for an organization, I think I could bring a half dozen people to the table from Minneapolis and South Dakota."

Also a Mary Beth from Minnesota has a few painters. In various parts of Wisconsin, I know of three in the Milwaukee area, three close to my area in NE Wisconsin, and then a half-dozen reputable wildlife artists that paint plein air that have stated interest to me.

The issue is...what might best serve our area? Heaven knows with my responsibilities as an art educator and as an artist always with ten irons in the fire (including my agreeing to be a writer for an upcoming plein air magazine for our NAPPAP association), I am not looking to lord over or be "head" cheese hoping for control. I do believe and have for quite some time that we need an association and our work and genre would be better served.

Plein airists in the state of Georgia have taken Linda and David's model site of Florida to develop now one of their own called, "Plein Air Georgia" which exists as an umbrella site... http://www.pleinairgeorgia.com

I'm not sure we need a pleinair Wisconsin, a pleinair Minnesota, a pleinair Illinois and so forth until we grew so stinkin' big for our britches that it would have to be necessary. I think we can create a larger umbrella such as the Northern Midwest Plein Air Association or "Plein Air Northern Midwest"....following the model of Floridas where smaller groups exist yet independently.

As such, information could be sent in or gathered to be listed on the umbrella site calling attention to shows, exhibitions, special features, artist of the month and so forth. As for paint out events...where the public is being asked to come, watch, learn and purchase...or for nonprofit charitable hosts considering to put on such an event, some criteria that sets a standard of excellence for the more professional level plein airist might be good to hold to which then moves the greater umbrella association closer to being taken serious on the national scene. Just some thoughts there anyway.

Hearing from Delores Marusarz of LaCrosse, Wisconsin-...Delores and her group of about 25 plein air painters is planning a paint out event in LaCrosse, Wisconsin this May the 8th. Do visit their group's site for more information-
http://pleinairwisconsin.tripod.com/

If we agreed to some umbrella association, we would need to discuss or consider whom would host the site....(Delores appears to have a good one now, but won't presume her interest to expand that, but such a site would be an example model) how we might collectively help to pay for that sight; perhaps any nonprofit possibility representing a regional contingency, and so forth. One nice feature of an umbrella association too, is having a page on the home page that provides member's website links.

thanks for your time...and looking forward to hearing from you.

Oh...before I forget, mention too that your members should check out the International Plein Air Painter's association that has its own website and listserv email digest participation thru the Yahoo group's. Here is that home page-
http://IPAP.homestead.com

Last year we had an international paint out date where we all reported where we would be painting on that date, and forwarded such information to media. This year's paint out dates will be... September 10-11-12, 2004

the yahoo groups membership for IPAP is-
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/plein_aire/

- - - -

and that's it folks.....

Larry

[Emilia]

Thanks Larry for all the info you posted here. It will take me forever to go through it all. But I love it. I read when I take a breake from my painting.
As a matter of fact it took me longer to go through your step by step directions then it took time for you to paint it, because I don't just look, I study it.
Thanks again
Emmy

[pinkbubelz]

Hey all, I'm bumping this back to the top in hopes that we continue to talk about things!

--Iris

[pinkbubelz]

June 25-27 sound good to me! Where???

Lauren

Is this the final consensus?
I'd like to find out more, if we've come to any other details!

--Iris

[Shelley Grund]

I really would like to do this... went on line today to look for lodging... just don't know where to begin - I'm not familiar with the area. Does anyone know of a place to stay in the area we're talking about (Marquette, etc). If we can come up with a place to stay I think we could get more commitment...

[LarrySeiler]

I'm in Green Bay visiting...but I'll look more into it too when I get back home after tomorrow.

I was under the understanding some might be looking to meet about 30 minutes south of the Pictured Rocks somewhere. I am not real familiar with that area. As for Marquette though (west of the Pictured Rocks about 45 minutes to an hour)....if that is what people might have in mind...I can do some digging. Between Marquette and Munising, there should be some locations, and great painting sites.

talk to you later

Larry

[Shelley Grund]

Thanks, Larry,
Doesn't matter to me... I only said Marquette because I remember the name back earlier in this thread. The closer to good painting sites the better. I think cabins would be fun... but I also have a tent if camping works out...

[LarrySeiler]

Okay...took a bit of time to check some things out in Marquette...
there are quite a few motels, lodges and so forth from Days Inn, Ramada, Travel Lodge, Holiday Inn and so forth...here's a few links...

http://www.haveanicestay.com/hotels/Marquette/MI/US/

there a few bed and breakfast places and resorts-
http://www.fishweb.com/maps/marquette/marquette/lodging.html

rom travelMichigan.org comes these-
http://travel.michigan.org/lodging/?m=6;4&city=G3695

from besthotelbargains.com
http://www.secure-reservations.net/hotels/hotels.mv?action=hotel_list&city=Marquette&state=MI&country=US&agent_id=9127

which shows rates...but these sites show basically some of the same places.

My wife and I will be up there the week before...scout a few places to paint, I'll do a few paintings...and a bit of fishing/R&R...and so forth.

We could paint along Presque Isle, Wetmore Landing, travel along the Superior shores...head over to Munising for an afternoon...paint at Castle Rock or various places. For the venturous there are some nicely groomed trails that bring you to breath taking falls.

I have some favorite places along the McClure River (six miles west of Marquette)...such as where I did this quick plein air, and then this studio piece-

6"x 9" alla prima oil...1 hour..
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Mar-2004/532-bridge_deadriver0802.jpg

12"x 24" oil
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Mar-2004/532-deadriver.jpg

Larry

[LarrySeiler]

ahhhhh...wad da hey...might as well show y'allz a couple composites of work I've done around the Marquette and Munising area...kinda give ya an idea what to expect. Its been I think, good for me...

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Mar-2004/532-upcomposite1.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Mar-2004/532-upcomposite2.jpg

Miners falls is about a 1-1/2 mile walk in from a parking area, just south of Castle Rock. It is about an 80 foot drop falls...very pretty...

acrylic
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Mar-2004/532-minersfalls.jpg

Here is Castle Rock...seen from above from a nice position in the park. Absolutely breathtaking. Castle Rock is part of the Pictured Rocks national lakeshore...

oil
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Mar-2004/532-castlerock.jpg


hopefully these works of mine will do enough justice. Those of you that have been up there would no doubt know best...
peace

Larry

[irish artist]

Right you are Larry, hard to do the area justice, its sooo beautiful. And the Pictured Rocks..........ah, The Creator must have turned "artist" that day! What about a meeting place? I'm planning to leave Thursday, spend a day driving and be there some time Friday and would like to have Friday night dinner with you?

[leverettfinn]

Wow Larry...thanks for linking us to those sites....I'm looking forward to this!

Lauren

[Shelley Grund]

Ok - :clap: I'll get this started... if anyone has a better location please post it and I'll go along with it....
I have made reservations for myself at the EconoLodge (2050 U.S. 41 South Marquette Michigan 49855 1-906-225-1305 1-800-435-2502). I found them on the link from Larry "TravelMichigan.org" - I chose it because it's on Lake Superior and it has a large restaurant on site where we could meet for meals etc. if we want to... (and the rates don't seem to be too bad).

[leverettfinn]

Thanks Shelley...Just reserved my room there too! Really looking forward to this!!!

Lauren

[Shelley Grund]

SUPER, Lauren - Looking forward to meeting you!
OK everyone else - we want to hear from you - This is for June 25, 26, 27 this summer... I'm getting so excited - this should be FUN!

[irish artist]

I'm going to find a room when I get there or just go camping. You folks keep this site posted about a meeting place. Everyone want to meet for Friday dinner? I've asked Larry the same question.

[Shelley Grund]

Friday dinner would be great - once we get closer to the date and we know how many to expect we can decide on the logistics of where and when.... I hope to be there by lunch Friday, June 25.

[leverettfinn]

Friday dinner sounds good to me too...

Lauren

[Shelley Grund]

Good - so far for Friday June 25th - dinner:
Shelley
Lauren
Irish Artist
Larry ?
OTHERS _____________

[LarrySeiler]

Would like to bring my wife along for dinner...

We have a favorite Chinese food place on 41...about 1 mile from the main street turn into Marquette....anyone like Chinese? Moo Shu Pork is my favorite...my wife gets Moo Goo Gai Pan, (Authentic quaint atmosphere...real Chinese owners and help) or we could eat at the Econo Lodge if that's what folks are interested in.

A little bit of finer cuisine and atmosphere which was a favorite of my family's up there is the Northwoods Supper Club located here roughly 3 miles west of Marquette- http://tinyurl.com/2f2de

we've got time to talk....

I was thinking too...last summer, I took a walk around, and discovered that there is a local art group that holds monthly meetings in the Marquette area. Should I attempt to drop a note to a coop/artist's gallery there and the art association to invite any to join us or let them have a heads up on our being in the area for the weekend? Does anyone see any advantage or disadvantage to doing so? From what I've heard, there might be only one artist that might paint plein air up there.

Also, Nita Engles has her work and base in Negaunee, Michigan which is six miles west of Marquette. Many of you might know her as a watercolorist of national reputation with several books out in Northlight publishers. I have chatted with her several times...and maybe I should drop her a line. Would be fun if she decided to join us one day. Never know...it could happen.

I could contact the chamber of commerce and see if there are any unique events going on in the area that might be worth checking out for a morning or afternoon session painting.

I might have to buy a Wetcanvas t-shirt now to wear one of those days!
:)
Larry

[leverettfinn]

Hi
Any of the restaurants sound good....I'll be bringing either my husband or another painting friend....I'm getting excited about this!
I think it would be nice to let the co-op and other art groups know....the more the merrier!
Lauren

[irish artist]

I'm agreeing with Leverittfin, bring along a buddy or a spouse, you don't want to paint in a strange place alone. Also I feel that I should talk about clothing, it's something that I mentioned before. When I was in the area it was WINDY, a cool wind blows across the Lake. Larry says it can get hot, so not to worry but I've been there in June, July and August, if it's windy it can also be cool. If the weather reports indicate a rain, it will be cool and wet, don't let this spoil your trip. Be prepared. I'd also suggest easel support of some kind. I've seen articles about hanging a small bag of sand from the easel for support. Bring rubber bands, clips to keep things from blowing away.

[LarrySeiler]

June can still be brisk...and depends from which direction winds blow. Also as one gets closer to dusk. Lake Superior's water never really gets warm. Even in summer kayakers often wear wetsuits...47 to 53 degrees. IF winds come across the lake toward the beaches, it will feel cool.

Its best to be prepared as Irish says, for sure...

Between now and June...we can work on putting a list of things to consider bringing, ideas/suggestions for a number of painting sites. Also...I'll work on trying to find an indoor site to work in the event of inclement weather.

Two summers ago...later summer, I was painting up in the Pictured Rocks area. Was a good hike I'll confess, but it was prime blueberry season. Talk about dilemma...paint, or pick...paint or pick. Well...needless to say I did my share of picking and eating. YYyyyuuuuuum yum!

Larry

[TurtleBay Jewelry]

Hmmm, I just saw this when I was flying through the main WC home page, and I'm actually a wire artist/jewelry designer, but my hubby is stationed on the Us Coast Guard cutter Hollyhock in Port Huron, and we live down at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

I'm always looking for fellow artists to hang with, especially since I'm at home with our little one most of the time...although I spend chunks of the day at the old workbench. :p

I just got the "Wearable Art" forum up and running here on WC, so feel free to poke in there and yell a Helloooooooo at me or see my work.

If anyone's interested in getting together or something, feel free to PM me. I do also paint and draw (graphic design major), I do some beginners sewing, god, the list is endless. Aren't we creative types into a bizillion projects/mediums? :)

Anyhoo, I'll shut up now! Hope to hear from all the local ppl!

:clap:

~Danielle

[irish artist]

turtlebay, are you saying that you want to meet with fellow artists but you are not coming to the UP meeting? You want to set up a seperate meeting on the South of Michigan?

[TurtleBay Jewelry]

Unfortunately, coming up to the UP is out of my ability atm, since the hubby is gone and I've no one to watch Ian for me. (18 month old sea urchin that clings to my legs...heheh)

But yes, I'd love to get together w/ some of the folks down my way, or even just do a lunch or something where we can plan something larger for a later date. :)

~Danielle

[Shelley Grund]

Current numbers UPDATE:
Shelley
Lauren & husband/friend
Irish Artist
Larry & wife

Friday dinner - I love Chinese! Great idea!
I don't think I have anyone to bring with me - husband thinks he'll be bored... But hopefully I can tag along with one of you guys coming... Looking forward to a list of possible painting sites.
Yes - the local art group should know we are in town... the more the merrier.
TurtleBay - sorry you can't make this one... hopefully we'll meet up next time.
Larry - what's your wife's name?
That's all FOLKS...

[irish artist]

Shelley, I'll tag-a-long with you too. My hubby's coming as photographer, chauffeur,and fellow camper. He'd be relieved to know that I won't be alone if he wants to go hiking.

[LarrySeiler]

as an option...an aesthetic fulfillment...if we go and spend one day painting near Munising, Castle Rock and Pictured Rocks...there is a two hour boat tour with a number of boats that leave throughout the day. Covers about 30 miles of the 40 miles of the Pictured Rocks.

If the water is calm...they get quite close to the caverns and cliff edges. Great opportunity for unbelievable photographs. The boats are rather large with ammenities and such. My wife and I took the ride two summers ago, and cost $28 per adult. Again...remember this is our equivalent to the National Park...and paintings of this area is acceptable for entrees into the Arts for the Parks national lakeshore.

Might be a good way to end a day...
here's a boat passing us heading down the shore while we were headin' back in...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Mar-2004/532-three.jpg

and here are a few scenes along the way for a taste...one is a very old historic lighthouse on an island...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Mar-2004/532-composite.jpg

When my wife and I went...hee heee...(God bless my wife!) the tours had been cancelled all day due to rough swells/seas, and wind. The water settled down to the minimum requirement for them to go out, which was 4-6' swells. I got my wife dramamine tablets just in case...and myself, well... I'm an old Navy sailor so I summed it up as all fun.

It wasn't bad at all other than attempting to get up and go down to grab a bag of chips or soda. I had lost my sea legs since being out of the military. It was comical trying to walk. I got great pictures though.

That is not the norm with respect to the waves and rough ride...I was simply THAT intent and desperate to go.

Okay...well...'nuff on that. Just lettin' ya know what could be taken in if you want...I'm willing to go with the flow and enjoy.

Larry

[Helen]

I won't be able to make the trip to the UP in June but will keep track of what's going on in the event things change here

[Shelley Grund]

Irish Artist - I look forward to meeting you and your husband.
Helen, Sorry you can't make it... hopefully we'll do this again some day...
Larry - sounds ok ... but i want to spend as much time painting as possible ... I guess such a break would be welcome after a full morning/afternoon of painting.

[LarrySeiler]

Irish Artist - I look forward to meeting you and your husband.
Helen, Sorry you can't make it... hopefully we'll do this again some day...
Larry - sounds ok ... but i want to spend as much time painting as possible ... I guess such a break would be welcome after a full morning/afternoon of painting.

sure...I understand, no problem.

I am up in the UP frequently. No need for me to go on such a tour...though my wife and I might take one in again regardless another time. Just depends if anyone considered it a benefit. Perhaps even in future other time get togethers....

Whatever the consensus and interests are.

Larry

[irish artist]

Larry, I'm with Shelley, land-bound to paint. I have taken the boat twice, really enjoyed it but never got a chance to draw or paint the area. I just can tell you how much I appreciate the effort that you have put into this event, the photos, advice, .........there should be a "above and beyond award" just for you.

[PierceClark]

Did I read that there is a problem with blackflies or something like that at that time of the year? If so, please advise as I just might be able to talk my hubby into coming to this beautiful place!

[LarrySeiler]

much is cyclic as concerns pests...for one, flies and caterpillars we just heard that have been a nuisance in upper Wisconsin for a few years will be down or minimal this year.

When it involves Lake Superior...it has much to do with winds, coming off the lake or coming from inland towards the lake...
...secondly, June tends to be a bit cooler and breezier, so that should reduce much of the threat. I'll try and get hold of the department of natural resources up there for their predictions for this year...and the seasonal cyclical nature for such pests.

There has been only one time that I set up to paint where it was nuts for me. I did practically an Irish jig the whole time...but as a group of course, we would have a backup location to paint.

The black biting flies, if a nuisance on the shores of Lake Superior would not at the same time be a problem elsewhere...go 1/2 mile inland and they're gone for example.

[PierceClark]

Well, I just checked my schedule and I am teaching a three day acrylic workshop near the Dayton, Ohio area July 22, 23, 24; BUT, if Dennis (hubby) and I drive straight through on the 25th, we could be there for at least two of the days you all are going to be there. Am I looking at my calendar correctly? You all are planning July 25, 26, and 27th? And that would be a Sunday, Monday, Tuesday? Am I reading that correctly? :confused: I'm going to mapquest as soon as I sign off here just to see the distance. I have been reading about this for a while and it just sounds so beautiful. Ohio is nice, but the area we are in leaves much to be desired in the way of beautiful geography. I like cliffs, water, etc. WE are in the middle of OHio. Not too much here. Oh, don't get me wrong, OHio is beautiful, but...........no cliffs, no Lake Superior, ya know?!

[LarrySeiler]

Well, I just checked my schedule and I am teaching a three day acrylic workshop near the Dayton, Ohio area July 22, 23, 24; BUT, if Dennis (hubby) and I drive straight through on the 25th, we could be there for at least two of the days you all are going to be there. Am I looking at my calendar correctly? You all are planning July 25, 26, and 27th? And that would be a Sunday, Monday, Tuesday? Am I reading that correctly?

according to my little trusty Tungsten handheld (I don't think anymore, I've been reduced to a small palm!)...the 25th begins on a Friday...thus running thru Sunday...

would be nice to have you drop in even for a couple days...

Larry

[PierceClark]

"My bad" as the kids say. I was looking at July! We will have to look at that really closely because I have a class the 24th till 11:30 (if enough kids sign up for it), and then it meets again on the 28th at 10am. That might be kinda close!

Oh, but I love the looks of those photos and your paintings. Oh, well. Maybe another time. Just sounds a bit too close to have fun, relaxing and painting. But, for the record, would there be fishing for my husband (because if not now, we will come later)? He has also remarked that it might be boring for him (but, I also know that he has lots of wonderful talent in him, too, and as soon as I can get him trying it, --- I've told him, he will be better than myself).

[sbsander]

Hi all,

I'm interested in the art weekend in the U.P. Is there an official sign up somewhere or do we just show up? I haven't done much plein aire painting, but want to get over my fear of being "out there" and painting.

-Susan

[leverettfinn]

Hi Susan....that would be great if you could join us! I've lived in Michigan most of my life and can you imagine...I've never been to pictured rocks! We are just making reservations and showing up...trying to gather for dinners and painting etc....I haven't done much plein aire either....looking forward to it!

Danielle....I would be game to meet with a group for lunch or painting ...I'm in Oxford...about 40 minutes from Flint and 40 minutes from Detroit....Really busy right now...but in a couple of months it should slow down.

Lauren

[irish artist]

Susan, We' d love to have you show up and add to our little group. I'm not much of an outdoor painter either and just began oils this winter, so don't feel like you won't fit in. We have an "old pro" Larry, who is personally experienced with "en plien aire" as it is called, painting and is also experienced with the area. In the event Larry would have to cancel, then I could be the area expert and could help us all locate good painting spots.

[LarrySeiler]

But, for the record, would there be fishing for my husband (because if not now, we will come later)? He has also remarked that it might be boring for him (but, I also know that he has lots of wonderful talent in him, too, and as soon as I can get him trying it, --- I've told him, he will be better than myself).


I grew up with a father that was a sportsfishing guide....and, I myself won our state's trout fishing stamp competition six years ago...so, guess what one of the things I enjoy doing that is similar to your husbands??? :angel: :clap:

Michigan has a three day license for fishing, might be about $7...not sure. I tend to buy an out of state annual license. June is a great time for small mouth bass fishing, but that is usually small boat fishing on smaller inland lakes. That's one thing I'll be doing the week prior to our paint together, let your husband feast his eyes on this smalley I caught near our cabin six miles west of Marquette several Junes ago....
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/23-Mar-2004/532-dad_smalley3.jpg

and this this one...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/23-Mar-2004/532-smallmouth_ashley02_72dpi.jpg

also...upper Michigan has some of the finest trout streams...and I could share a couple personal favorites....but heh, I'm not going to blab it here. Don't want anyone to feel bad...but, well if anyone knows a trout fisherman, well...some things can't be told!

Last but not least...are the half day excursions for going out on a Lake Superior charter boat for lake trout, browns, salmon...you name it.

Larry

[LarrySeiler]

*doink doink...(hitting head on keyboard!)

don't know why I didn't think of this earlier...perhaps I assume too much with my website, but for those that have not checked it out, I have a demo page and have painted a number of paintings in upper Michigan with step by steps.

On this particular one though, and the reason I mention it, I have a couple mpeg video clips....one showing you the spot the demo will be done on, another after my intial raggin. I pan the spot so you get an idea...

It is an isolated little private beach just north of the Wetmore Landing beach, 3 miles north of Marquette. Found it walking along a trail with my equipment and slipped down to enjoy. There are a number of spots like this...and admittedly those that find hiking and roughing it difficult or not good for health will want to probably avoid such.

Of course...Wetmore and many places offer great view painting opportunities without fear of physical duress. At any rate...check out a few of the pages of this demo and click onto the video clip samples provided....(you'll hear this strange voice, which happens to be mine! hahaha)

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Articles/Larry_Seiler/137/

Larry

[Shelley Grund]

Hi
Donna - sorry you're schedule is too tight to join us... Maybe next time...
Susan - No official sign up ... I'm trying to keep a count. Let us know when you know for sure that you are joining us and your name will be added!
Larry - every time you post you make the area sound better and better. I'm not a fisherman... but love to paint them!

Current numbers UPDATE:
Shelley
Lauren & husband/friend
Irish Artist
Larry & wife

[LarrySeiler]

should mention too...that I have golfed on some lovely courses up there in that area in case hubbies enjoy that as well. Just south of Marquette about 15 minutes is KI Sawyer which used to be an active US Airforce base. Nearby is very nice, challenging course of rolling hills, dog legs and wooded trouble.
Larry

[sbsander]

Ok, sign me up. My husband will be around,too.

-Susan

[Shelley Grund]

HEY - WONDERFUL, Susan!

Current numbers UPDATE:
Shelley
Lauren & husband/friend
Irish Artist
Larry & wife
Susan & husband

[LarrySeiler]

I'm making up some postcards...will feature a painting of mine from the Marquette area. I will be sending one to most of the local galleries in the Marquette/Ishpeming area announcing our getting together to paint plein air.

I don't care how often I go back to upper Michigan and paint, it always amazes me the beauty of the area, that there is so much beauty that seems untainted, unmolested...isolated,

I have gone in a number of the galleries, and it amazes me that amongst the efforts of artists to make art and cater....very little of the art represents their greatest resource which is their back yard beauty. One gallery representing local artists had not heard of plein air before. I should be more empathetic having myself been a studio painter for near 20 years prior to taking it outdoors...but it is just hard to imagine so much beauty to one's self at what appears a disregard to others.

The area reminds me of Wisconsin's upper Door County...where Fish Creek, Ellison Bay, Sister Bay, Egg Harbor are all arts towns. Chicagoians bring their yachts up during the summer and other tourists arrive by car. Just hoards and hoards of people enjoying the galleries during the summer.

Marquette's Chamber of Commerce should of course welcome what we are doing with open arms....I will drop them a card as well. There is a wonderful art show at the end of July...rated as one of the top 200 in the country, "Art on the Rock"...

I will announce our plans to paint plein air, invite artists that are interested in joining us to check out this forum thread for info.

For those planning on attending, if you would like me to send you a postcard just for fun, you can give me a mailing address thru private messaging.

Larry

[leverettfinn]

Hey Larry....Got my postcard yesterday....looks great...well written too! I'm really starting to get excited about this....Did a plein air today in fact...even in the dreary weather we had today...45f and spotty drizzle...

Lauren

[LarrySeiler]

Hey, that's cool Lauren....you'll have to be brave now and share your plein air in the Plein air forum....

surprising how fast the cards found their intended destinations.

I printed them up on my Epson 2200...but, need to really get a heavier stock for cards. Glad you liked it though. I thought the printer printed nice color.

should be fun for us for sure!

Hey...I checked out your website...enjoyed your Ivan and Hester...
As a wildlife artist for near 20 some years, I like your style on these. It has a simplicity that really draws one into the character. Like how you are capturing light and handling form.

Saw your watercolor...and early year is difficult with snow just out. I like those subtle neutrals as they are, with hints of what is yet to come. A nice time to paint...challenging. Really calls upon your sensitivities to feature nuances. Nothing like stretching oneself and gearing up for much color to come....

take care

Larry

[leverettfinn]

Larry....
thanks for your kind comments...I gots lots to learn!

Do you like your epson 2200??? thinking about buying one....Have heard good things about them...nice to know your card was printed on it...color is nice.

Lauren

[LarrySeiler]

Larry....
thanks for your kind comments...I gots lots to learn!

Do you like your epson 2200??? thinking about buying one....Have heard good things about them...nice to know your card was printed on it...color is nice.

Lauren


oh yeah...Going from my Sony Mavica CD300 digital camera of plein airs and instudio work, enhancing images on Photoshop 7.0 to look closest to the originals as possible, then printing on Velvet Fine Art paper (100 % acid free stock similar to a soft watercolor paper). Inks allegedly have 80 year life, prints being kept out of direct sunlight.

Printed them up...and then off to the galleries. A more affordable alternative for the galleries to offer from my originals. Don't have to inventory large stocks of prints like I used to. Color is very nice...

In fact...I could take some of my reference photos...desaturate color or go to grayscale and sell as black and white photos. Could even alter images to have that sienna old era look. Many possibilities....

I think well worth it...

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

Hi Everyone,
I haven't been in here in a little bit and sounds like things are starting to shape up!!!

I will probably go and bring my hubby along for the ride. He can bring his guitar and entertain us around a fire if people opt for camping :-) (We will most likely be camping)...

as for restaurants, I'm pretty picky about Chinese restaurants, (it's in my blood) but I'm open for anything else-- :D

I will also post my info about my upcoming Gallery show!!! (I'll do that tomorrow... my opening is on May 2nd in Lansing, I hope a few of the Lower Peninsulans can come by and visit and say hello! :-)

--Iris :-)

[Shelley Grund]

Hi Iris - let me know when you are sure you'll be joining us and I'll add you and your husband to the list!

Lauren - Did you post your plein air piece yet? I'll jump over to the plein air forum and check!

Current numbers UPDATE:
Shelley
Lauren & husband/friend
Irish Artist
Larry & wife
Susan & husband

[rhmusa]

:D hi,
Friend Lauren told me about the site and the weekend. Sounds like fun and am checking calendar to see if it would work out.
Larry have checked your site :clap: and love everything there...but especially the video clips with sound.......I want to tape the lapping water and have it by my bedside........ :D Also really enjoyed your artists statement...think you surely have your head together.
Sister and family come almost yearly from Germany and go to Grand Island off Munising but as I am prone to "needing" electricity and toilets which flush. :rolleyes: .only visited one day...but agree the area would be great.

Am a foodie like Lauren so chinese etc. all sound good--what no pasties? :D and can we have s'mores by the campfire while Larry serenades us :music: ?
This is sounding better and better...maybe we should stay for two weeks,eh?
When I'm sure of tagging along, will add my name........but certainly sounds like fun.......AND NON THREATENING.......... :rolleyes:
sue schultz
rochester

[leverettfinn]

Yay Sue!

Lauren

[LarrySeiler]

Hey....very cool...!!! Will be glad to have you Sue, hope you're able to confirm a go. We're gonna have a great time!
:clap:

Larry

[cindyjames]

I may be able to join you there. It's only 1 1/2 hours north of me. I probably can't get off work on Friday but could still get there for dinner. Sounds like fun. It's definitely something I need to learn to do. I would stick with my acrylics I think.

Cindy James

[Shelley Grund]

Sounding GREAT!
Sue Schultz - YES - S'mores would be wonderful. Hope we can add your name to the list SOON!
Cindy James - Glad you are considering joining us - waiting to add you name!

Current numbers UPDATE:
Shelley
Lauren & husband/friend
Irish Artist
Larry & wife
Susan & husband

[Emilia]

OHHhhhhhhhhhhhhh this is so tempting guys. I just feel like taking the plane, Hmmmmm.... :(

[pinkbubelz]

Hi Everyone,
I just wanted to let people know that I am hoping to attend the weekend art gathering... :-)

Also, here is an invitation to my upcoming show in the Lansing Area--if you are nearby, please come and visit me!

--Iris

****************************

Visions from Iris: Works of Art by Iris Shen-Van Buren
Exhibition Dates: May 2 - May 31, 2004
Absolute Gallery
307 E. Grand River Ave., Lansing, Michigan, Ph. (517) 482-8845

Artist's Opening Reception
Sunday, May 2, 2004 ~ 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Light refreshments will be served. In addition, there will also be a gallery walk at other local galleries in Old Town Lansing on the same day. Call for specific directions to the Absolute Gallery or PM Iris on Wetcanvas at: pinkbubelz for additional information.

The Absolute Gallery is located in "Old Town Lansing", a few miles West of Michigan State University Campus and on the North Side of Grand River. It is on the Corner of Grand River and Turner St. and Across from the Brenke Fish Ladder.

About the Artist:
Iris Shen-Van Buren is a graduate of Michigan State University. With a B.A, Studio Arts (1990), as well as a B.F.A., Studio Arts (1991), Iris has participated in numerous art fairs and exhibits over the past 14 years, including exhibits in St. Joseph, East Lansing, Lansing, Southfield, Grosse Pointe, Interlochen and Detroit, Michigan. In recent months, she has also been involved in several international art exchanges with artists from the U.S., Australia, Europe, South America and Asia via the online artist community of www.wetcanvas.com.

The exhibit at the Absolute Gallery is her first one-woman solo exhibit of her works of art. Works of art include oil paintings, drawings, Gocco prints, photographs, digital works, sculptures and mixed media works. Also to be included will be a collaborative watercolor, which will be circulated through several countries and sold online after its completion by WetCanvas artists.

Artist Statement:
"As an artist, I believe that it is important to bring a positive energy to my audience. Too much of this world has been focused on negatives; crime, war, abuse, hatred, anger, poverty and depression. I chose to focus my energy in another direction--that of an uplifting nature, much like the motto of my home State of Michigan, "Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam circumspice (If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you)." I hope to find the spark of optimism within the drab and dreary humdrum of the city and often use vibrant colors to visually excite my viewer. It is my hope that my audience can find a way to lift up their moods and feelings from whatever image I chose to present to them." ~ Iris Shen-Van Buren

Contact The Artist:
If you are interested in learning more about Iris' art, please PM her on Wetcanvas at: pinkbubelz

To subscribe to her online email list, please send an email to:
IrisSVB-Art-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

[pinkbubelz]

I haven't been in this forum for a while-- I have decided that we WILL go to the art gathering--does anyone know if there are nice camping areas nearby? My hubby and i love to get back to nature and would like to camp with others if they are up to it!

Oh, and I have a friend who's brother flies a small plain near the shores of Pictured rocks... if anyone's interested, I'm not sure when he goes up north, but I might be able to have him fly a group to take photos.. :-)

[Shelley Grund]

Pinkbubelz (Iris) - :clap: SUPER - looking forward to meeting you there! Irish Artist says she may camp - check with her... Friend with airplane - sounds INTERESTING! Let us know what he thinks...
Emilia - are you going to fly in from New Jersey??? This should be a fun time!

Current numbers UPDATE:
June 25, 26, 27, 2004
Shelley (EconoLodge)
Lauren & husband/friend (EconoLodge)
Irish Artist & Husband (Camping?)
Larry & wife
Susan & husband
Iris & Hubby (Guitar & Camping)

[pinkbubelz]

I'll ask my friend (his sister) what he charges-- I know he's had less flights in recent years due to the economy...

If anyone's interested, let me know and I will see what happens.
I, personally am afraid of flying and haven't ever been in a small plane, so I will have to see if I can muster the guts to try it out!

--Iris

[pinkbubelz]

BTW-- I recently purchased some Alkyds...Larry, what is your thought on using them? I've only used true oils and acrylics before, never any alkyds or even the water-miscible paints. I also plan to bring my oil pastels, watercolors and pastels... I'm wondering if that is all too much? I like to try different things...

[Emilia]

Pinkbubelz (Iris) - :clap: SUPER - looking forward to meeting you there! Irish Artist says she may camp - check with her... Friend with airplane - sounds INTERESTING! Let us know what he thinks...
Emilia - are you going to fly in from New Jersey??? This should be a fun time!

Current numbers UPDATE:
June 25, 26, 27, 2004
Shelley (EconoLodge)
Lauren & husband/friend (EconoLodge)
Irish Artist & Husband (Camping?)
Larry & wife
Susan & husband
Iris & Hubby (Guitar & Camping)

I said that it is tempting. I haven't commitet myself to this temptation yet? Will see.
Larry do the TICKS bite there? because they just love me. As a matter of fact I am on the medication right now and not the first time. :mad:

[LarrySeiler]

I said that it is tempting. I haven't commitet myself to this temptation yet? Will see.
Larry do the TICKS bite there? because they just love me. As a matter of fact I am on the medication right now and not the first time. :mad:

I haven't found ticks nearly the problem in the UP as in northern Wisconsin, and I have done a good deal of hunting and fishing up there...but that doesn't mean there aren't any. Of course...one painting along the beaches one is less likely than if one is hiking back in and thru tall grasses.

A trick is to wear white pants, wear white socks...and tuck your pant's cuff into your socks. this way any ticks crawling up the outside of your pants could be seen and dealt with easily enough. I don't recall, to be honest... the last time I've seen a tick up there.

Larry

[irish artist]

Larry and all the great folks going to the En Pienaire Michigan, I've reserved a room at the Day's Inn in Marquette, Mich. I couldn't resist the advertising for the pool, free breakfast-beats roughing it any time!

[Shelley Grund]

Irish Artist - Okey-doke!

Current numbers UPDATE:
June 25, 26, 27, 2004
Shelley (EconoLodge)
Lauren & husband/friend (EconoLodge)
Irish Artist & Husband (Day's Inn)
Larry & wife
Susan & husband
Iris & Hubby (Guitar & Camping)

[LarrySeiler]

BTW-- I recently purchased some Alkyds...Larry, what is your thought on using them? I've only used true oils and acrylics before, never any alkyds or even the water-miscible paints. I also plan to bring my oil pastels, watercolors and pastels... I'm wondering if that is all too much? I like to try different things...


all medium is a conduit for your creative energies to flow uninterrupted. Those newer to painting will find various mediums and techniques a challenge in and of itself, the goal of course is to arrive where you are unconscious about your medium. Where you slip into a zone or groove and 110% of your focus is on the subject and your response.

I've not worked with alkyds. Oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels...yes. Since I am so comfortable with the latter I mention, there is no real purpose to try alkyds...that is, speaking only for me.

I can't see why alkyds couldn't be absolutely wonderful. From what I know, you can use regular solvents, and mediums with alkyds that you would with oils, (though I would think if one actually did...that would put the paints into another category than clean up with soap and water).

Experiment, have fun...prepare yourself to learn. I will bring my oils, and prepare to have my acrylics and watercolors on hand in case it is of value to show something to anyone. A few have mentioned to my via pm...of interests in maybe a short demo. We'll see how that goes and what sentiments are as the time arrives.

I plan on keeping an open mind on how the time goes for all of us. How everyone's stay at motels go....ammenities and so forth, because from this experience I might just plan on putting together a full fledged annual painter's plein air workshop up in that area. I realize this time together we will be as peers, friends, comrades of the arts. It will give me some hindsight that will lead to greater foresight...and am looking forward to everyone's opinions at the end of the weekend. I think its going to be a great time.

Larry

[Emilia]

Larry EtAl,
How many hours drive is that from Chicago? I have some close relatives there. Chicago was once my home town. I will try to talk my husband to come with me, I hope he will say yes.

[LarrySeiler]

my artist son is from Chicago...and my sister lives down there as well. She'll be coming that weekend to spend some time with us at the cabin, and extend her stay that following week up there. They drive it all the time.

If you drive like me...(get everyone mad because you pretty much stick to the speed limits)....its roughly 4 hours to Green Bay, and 2-1/2 to 3 hours more to Marquette, Michigan. Now...on the other hand it takes my sister and brother-in-law about an hour less!

You'd love it up there...I'll guarantee you.

Here's one of me painting tonight just 20 minutes south of Iron Mountain, Michigan....on the Wisconsin side-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Apr-2004/532-artist.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Apr-2004/532-finished72.jpg

I have more details in the plein air forum on this one tonight. Was suppose to be a date with my wife....but, well...just a little stop on the way couldn't hurt anything, right??? A dab here....dab there.

Just keeps gettn' prettier the farther north ya go...

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

Hi Larry,
Great. I will have to figure out what to bring! :-)
Your photo of the UP is making me really jealous! :-) Such nice wooded areas! Cannot wait..

Just another question--what happens if it rains?

:-)

--Iris

[irish artist]

[QUOTE=pinkbubelz

Just another question--what happens if it rains?

:-)

--Iris[/QUOTE]

Come on Iris.......Larry can't control the weather! I've been to the area and it can be rough: windy, cold, rainy ect. We already talked about that in earlier posts-be prepared. Bring a rain coat, think about having to paint in the car, or be patient and wait for the storm to pass. Don't you paint outside where you live now?

[leverettfinn]

Just another question--what happens if it rains?

:-)

--Iris

We'll be wet :D

Lauren

[cindyjames]

Hey, I am still thinking about coming along! There are alot of places along the back roads to camp if you like roughing it. You just find an old logging road, go aways until you see a spot you like and pull in. There's alot of public land and paper company owned land that is not regulated for camping, no fees. All you owe is respect for the land! ATV's are alot of fun along these back roads. Actually you can travel faster that way on these back roads too, they are ROUGH! There's alot to explore. Of course, it's not all backwards! There are some asphalt roads! And Marquette has all the luxuries of hotels, restaurants and shopping malls! Here are some pictures I took in the U.P. (that means the Upper Penninsula of Michigan). It's beautiful country!

Cindy James

[LarrySeiler]

Hi Larry,
Great. I will have to figure out what to bring! :-)
Your photo of the UP is making me really jealous! :-) Such nice wooded areas! Cannot wait..

Just another question--what happens if it rains?

:-)

--Iris

we have options...
for one, we can paint. Especially those that paint in oils. I paint in snow... rain, you name it..and I don't even have an umbrella yet. I need to get one. It is a pain when the rain drops pitter patter spatter matter on your palette! :D

However...the library of Marquette hosts some art work exhibits, has some summer arts and craft things...and has several community rooms. I actually thought about this...because I don't know everyone's propensity for roughing it. I do things most in right mind would not do. You should have seen my wife's face where I took her in my truck to do this painting of the falls above!

Went thru 12" mud ladened wet ruts, and had to go in four wheel drive. Other folks wanting to get to the falls had pulled over....some in vans driving all the way up, but couldn't muster the nerve seeing how rough the road got. But...I rooster tailed the mud and kicked 'er in high gear.

My wife agreed after that...that it might not be a bad idea for her husband to invest in a cellphone. Looking at the one you buy with CDMA tower connections...and you buy time cards for...just for emergencies.

At any rate...in the event of inclement weather...lightning and so forth... we could possibly set up a still life and paint live if we could find a cooperating community space room. Alla prima is the next best thing to plein air outdoors. I was going to mention it to you...and then attempt to contact some places in Marquette.

Between 6-8 of us....we could probably each chip in $10...and stop at a floral place and buy a pretty decent flower arrangement...throw a cloth on a table, perhaps a couple pieces of fruit..whatever.

I'm flexible....

Larry

[LarrySeiler]

Hey, I am still thinking about coming along! There are alot of places along the back roads to camp if you like roughing it. You just find an old logging road, go aways until you see a spot you like and pull in. There's alot of public land and paper company owned land that is not regulated for camping, no fees.

Cindy James


The Yellow Dog...is a trout stream that has a wonderful series of bluffs and falls...Big Bull Falls...and is about a 15-20 minute drive north off of Hwy 41. The turn is about 3-4 miles prior to hitting Marquette, coming from Negaunee direction. It is a popular place for people to visit. Trails lead to the falls..and its about 1/8th to 1/4 a mile walk. If you pack light...there are wonderful wonderful wonderful places to paint there. Inspiring...and awe filled...

[LarrySeiler]

For camping...there are these rustic cabins about 3-4 miles north of Marquette..called Harlow Lake Cabins. Might have to contact the area Department of Natural Resources up there...or chamber of commerce to see how to reserve one. There are only about four or five...but they are pretty cool...

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

my hubby and I do tent camping, but we've never "roughed it" to the point were we just plop a tent in the woods. I think that might still be a little too adventuresome for us! (if we still had our Ford Ranger, we might consider it, but not with just a small car.)

the cabins look neat. We've done a lot of State Campground camping... so I will check after my show starts in May. :-)

I've never painted in the rain. I am terrified of thunderstorms and obviously won't be outside when ANY lightening is striking (Trust me, I nearly jumped out of my skin when camping in a really bad storm a few years ago.)

I guess if I'm using straight oils, it won't matter if there's rain or not.. only if we are painting with water-soluable medium! :-) (or we could call it a natural abstraction? LOL)

Oh, and NO, i've never painted outside. Mostly taking photos and taken them home to paint. I bought a french easel this past winter and want to definitely explore nature painting-- I've never really done much of it--mostly figurative works and abstracts... :-) I LOVE nature photography, so I'm sure this will be a natural extension for me!

--IRis

[Shelley Grund]

Oh MY GAWD - How will we EVER decide where/what to paint (if the weather is good) - ONLY have THREE days... well, really only TWO days and so much natural beauty.... Can we rely on you, Larry, to help point us to maybe 5 primary spots for us to target????? I'll be driving my 4 Wheel Drive Expedition so I should be able to get to almost anywhere....

If inclimate weather (thunder and lightning) your suggestion for us to gather around a still life or two sounds great! Always so pleasant to be surrounded by other artists, no matter what we are working on.... Another suggestion.... the EconoLodge has that large restaurant with a big window facing the water... wonder if they would let us set up during the lull between either breakfast and lunch or lunch and dinner.... would probably have to use orderless turps for us using oils ....

Cindy - should I add you to the list???? Great photos you posted!

Current numbers UPDATE:
June 25, 26, 27, 2004Shelley (EconoLodge)
Lauren & husband/friend (EconoLodge)
Irish Artist & Husband (Day's Inn)
Larry & wife
Susan & husband
Iris & Hubby (Guitar & Camping)

[pinkbubelz]

you're probably right about using the odorless turps inside-- although that may still have too much odor to be painting in a dining room...

Well, I will keep my fingers crossed that we will NOT have bad weather!

I'm thinking that my hubby and I will probably be there more than the 3 days-- especially if we have to drive 8-10 hours to get up there... :-) Maybe some people who are interested can continue to stay for a few days in the U.P. I visited the Porcupine Mountains a few years ago, but (almost literally) only had a few hours-- not enough by a long stretch!!!!

I went to Presque Isle and took some fabulous "B/W" photos (actually the special film that can be processed in a color lab). It was almost impossible NOT to get a good photo! I'd love to go back and paint the rocks--they were really beautiful!

--Iris

[irish artist]

Passing on the word- I blew Larry Seiler's postcard up to 8 1/2 by ll size and plan to pass it around the oils class and post it at the Kalamazoo Art Institute bulletin board.

[pinkbubelz]

Just wondering..
Is anyone planning to stay longer or to head up sooner?

I would love to stay up there for a while longer, but hubby has to work on the following Monday... our current plan is to drive part way up on Thursday night, and the remainder of the drive on Friday morning.... Stay Saturday and Sunday and probably drive back part way on Sunday and the remainder on Monday morning or something like that.....

If someone's going up earlier or staying a few extra days, I would love to stay and do more painting/art with other people and have my hubby come up later that week... but I just don't want to stay up in the UP by myself... :P

Let me know, thanks!

--Iris

[irish artist]

Iris, Check the past posts, I remember Larry saying he was going to be there before anyone else, checking out painting spots :) I scrolled around and found it on page #5-Larry says he's going to be there one week before we're all planning to show. How did your show do?

[LarrySeiler]

Yep, I'll be up there with my wife and our two dogs. We have a cabin about six miles from Marquette that has been in the family near 50 years...and the plan is to vacation, do a bit of fishing..resting and such. I'll paint a few pieces no doubt...but I have no plans to have any schedule 'till the weekend comes up. We'll have a phone up there...which gets hooked up each summer but is a different number each summer. When it gets hooked up, (usually the beginning of June) I can pm and give the number to whoever wants or needs it.

I'd be available if something dire happens...but so you know there is no answer machine. Possible to get together one night or so...who knows. Maybe a cook out one night at the cabin even. A chance to talk, talk about art...and so forth, about gearing up for the weekend. talk to you later...

I'm hoping to scout a few spots during that week, and secure an inside spot (talking with whoever is in a position of authority) in case of inclement weather.

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

FYI:
A group of Michigan Artists are gathering at Cranbrook Gardens on Woodward Avenue in Bloomfield HIlls Michigan
on Monday, May 16 at 1 p.m. to meet and do some Plein Air painting.....

(I can't go, but sure wish I could)

I think LeverittFinn (Lauren) knows more about the details.....

:-)

--Iris

[leverettfinn]

FYI:
A group of Michigan Artists are gathering at Cranbrook Gardens on Woodward Avenue in Bloomfield HIlls Michigan
on Monday, May 16 at 1 p.m. to meet and do some Plein Air painting.....

(I can't go, but sure wish I could)

I think LeverittFinn (Lauren) knows more about the details.....

:-)

--Iris

Oh! It's true It's true! Good heads up Iris! I didn't even think to post it here....A few of us that are watercolor forum regulars are meeting at Cranbrook Gardens at 1:00 on Monday afternoon...(tomorrow)...It is a $6 fee to enter the beautiful 40 plus acre gardens.....Let me know if you can join us....and I apologize for not mentioning it here before....DUH!

Lauren

[Yorky]

Hi everyone, I am now in Novi, Michigan staying with my son for 3 weeks. Yes, we organised a get-together at Cranbrook Gardens tomorrow afternoon with Lauren, Char, and Darla and we would be thrilled to meet even more wet canvassers.

Intention was to meet at the entrance Lodge at 380 Lone Pine Road, Bloomfield Hills at 1pm then go into the gardens to paint. There is some doubt as to whether this entrance is still open, but we'll meet there anyway.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-May-2004/1046-CranbrookMap.jpg
Look forward to meeting you.

Doug

[leverettfinn]

Cranbrook Get together...
You can still enter off Lone Pine Rd...Cranbrook House is on the North side...across from Christ Church (You can't miss this beautiful church) There is a small parking lot up there....but overflow cars park at the church...and not too bad of a walk up the hill....I thought we could meet at the entrance to Cranbrook House...there is a fountain there if I remember correctly....

Lauren

[Helen]

Oh drats... I thought this was all about the UP trip which I can't make; could have made Cranbrook but not at this late date. I guess I had better check the watercolor forum a little closer.
Helen

[LarrySeiler]

well...here's to all the best for this May's get together. May it not only be most enjoyable but fester an epidemic of ongoing things to come for the northern midwest! :clap:

Larry

[Shelley Grund]

So - how'd it go?? I jump over to the watercolor forum and see if you guys have posted any info!

[pinkbubelz]

The Cranbrook gathering is today at 1 p.m. I hope those who go will post their paintings-- It looks like it will be a nice day today!

I wonder if anyone would be interested in planning some other outings during the summer-- maybe once a month or once every few weeks? (probably will just have to play things by ear. :-) I will be on vacation after the first week of june and would love to meet with other artists!

--Iris

[Helen]

The Cranbrook gathering is today at 1 p.m. I hope those who go will post their paintings-- It looks like it will be a nice day today!

I wonder if anyone would be interested in planning some other outings during the summer-- maybe once a month or once every few weeks? (probably will just have to play things by ear. :-) I will be on vacation after the first week of june and would love to meet with other artists!

--Iris

I recently joined the Great Lakes Plein Air Painters Assoc and they have some outings planned. Most of them are pastel artists -- it is a group from the Great Lakes Pastel Society that formed the Plein Air Assoc. However, it's a group of artists who do plein air and that is what I want to start doing so I joined. They have outings planned around the state (lower penninsula) once a month through October. I'm going to try to get to the May 26 session at the Dave Hart Farm in Clinton County. Won't be able to do June -- Vineyards of Berrien Co. or July, Leelanau, because I have conflicts but then August is Lake Michigan Lighthouses and that's in my back yard so will do that. September is Kensington Park and October is Marshall, Michigan. I'll know more about the group after the May 26 session. Their June 12 and July 30, 31 sessions are dates I can't make but I may be able to do some other times.
Helen

[pinkbubelz]

Helen,
please post any details you might have about the local activities--I think I might like to join in if they meet on a weekend... :-)

Kensington is only 30 minutes from me...

I'm on vacation from my job from June through September, please post any info you have and perhaps some of us can join you sometime soon!

--Iris

[irish artist]

Hey...this is very do-able! I'm agreeing with Iris and would like to meet everyone on an outing also. The Lighthouses sounds like fun, I'd like to go.

[Helen]

Great... I'll keep you posted. The lighthouses on the list include ours here in Grand Haven and Big Red in Holland but they also list White Lake, Little Sable, and Big Sable. They are planning 3 days, August 27, 28 & 29. I should be getting more information on that one in a few days. Don't think they have the details on Kensington Park yet.

[LarrySeiler]

I like the idea of a Great Lakes Plein air group.

A few of us here in northern Wisconsin and throughout parts of Illinois, Minnesota, upper Michigan and so forth have been trying (but with only small strides thus far) to create a northern midwest association of some sort.

The thing about your description though is it might be a little misleading for a lower Michigan group to take on a name that would suggest a much larger region unless they were planning to grow in scope. That being said then, I wonder if they are not then planning such? After all...those that paint along the shores of Lake Superior would be viable, as would Erie and so forth. When you get together with them...it might be interesting for you to inquire as to if they have taken on that name with anticipation of the group expanding, like smaller chapters? Cool...

okay...peace

Larry

[leverettfinn]

Hi all....Here are a couple of links to see some of the photos from our Cranbrook outing yesterday.....Weather didn't cooperate very well....but I guess that's plein aire!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2328180&postcount=34

http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2329190#post2329190

Lauren

[Helen]

Yes Larry, the group does plan to extend the outings into the UP. There was something about that in the newsletter I received when I asked for information about the group. Unfortunately, the form I sent in to join was on the other side of that information so I don't have it anymore... but I believe it said something like starting closer to home base (down here in trollville) the first year but scheduling some events in the UP next year. I know you all have a beautiful shoreline up there but down here we think of anything that is Michigan is Great Lakes... you may have the biggest one but we have more of them (LOL) I'll let you know more as soon as I know more. I do plan to go to the outing next week.
Helen

[pinkbubelz]

Hi Everyone,
Just checking in for today--I was up at a golf course taking photos for a golf outing--and decided to try a plein air painting... I will scan it in later tonight and see what you think about it... :-)

Tried it in water colors, so it's not my forte, but I guess it's okay for a few minutes!

--Iris

[LarrySeiler]

I know you all have a beautiful shoreline up there but down here we think of anything that is Michigan is Great Lakes... you may have the biggest one but we have more of them (LOL) I'll let you know more as soon as I know more. I do plan to go to the outing next week.
Helen

actually...I have more personal history and intimacy with Lake Michigan on its west side. My father was a licensed state sports fishing guide and every weekend for many years pre-teen on up I was on the lake assisting him, and out of many ports and harbors. I was born in Sturgeon Bay, and had work in a number of upper Door County galleries. I hope to spend some significant time up there this summer working.

Well...good to hear then. I'll worry less about an association, more about maintaining contacts...keep working, and teach my workshops. The association by the sounds of it will grow eventually to be more all inclusive. Good! Until then....
peace

Larry

[irish artist]

There's a Van Riper State Park just west of Marquette, about 35 miles, and it has 1200-acres. There are four trails that are loops that connect each other by the Old Wagon Road Trail. If you hike it all its a four mile trek with the best part at the end. Therre are bridges that cross creeks, it follows the Peshekee River, ect. Some one want to hike? :D

[Lisa Olivarez]

Hi, when is your weekend and is there still room???

[Shelley Grund]

Hi, when is your weekend and is there still room???


Hello Lisa! Yes - would love to have you join us!
Current numbers UPDATE:
June 25, 26, 27, 2004

Shelley (EconoLodge)
Lauren & husband/friend (EconoLodge)
Irish Artist & Husband (Day's Inn)
Larry & wife (private cabin)
Susan & husband
Iris & Hubby (Guitar & Camping)

[pinkbubelz]

Hey Larry,
Do you know what time we will be meeting each day of the weekend?
Will it be early or late on Friday?
Should I try to drive up a day before?

--Iris

[LarrySeiler]

No one here has really presumed to take charge so to speak, Iris, of this event. It has come together in a true WC community fashion.

Perhaps it is time to begin to talk about specifics on times.

I will be using some of the time up there the week before checking out my usual haunts and other possibilities. Also...a few have asked me for a demo, but yet this has not come together as my thing or anyone elses. I've mentioned to those couple that asked its possible...but I think we can be flexible so no one feels pressured to be part of anything that might come off feeling as a platform for my agenda.

I will, in all honesty...be looking forward to everyone's opinions, input and such on the area...on their accomodations...and so forth as I will be thinking in the future of offering a bonafide painter's workshop in the area starting perhaps next year.

Perhaps as a start though...we might discuss and agree where we should like to meet on Friday and around what time...

...anyone?

Larry

[irish artist]

Well put, Larry! I got excited when I read the part about you having a real workshop in the UP sometime. That would be something I'd sign up for; but that's not what this is, I agree. Its a meeting WC! style. As far as a Friday meeting, whatever the group wants to do is fine by me. Could you also post an alternate meeting for any late arrivals for Sat. morning?

[cindyjames]

Hi Everyone,
I just got back from a couple of days in the U.P. I tried my first PleinAir! It was difficult. I probably painted about 3 hours...well, actually less because you'd have to subtract the time I spent applying bug spray. The tiny black flies were horrible. The good news is they will be gone by middle of June. I'll post the not-so-great painting results in the landscape forum. I'm used to putting hours and hours into a painting and it's HARD to work fast and get the results you want.

About the painting weekend coming up, I would probably just show up for Saturday's painting. For a suggestion on where to paint, I saw the falls on the Yellow Dog river Larry talked about in a previous post. (at least I think they were the same ones, by a bridge on 510, north from Hwy 41?) They would be a great place to set up and paint for a day. They are awesome!!!! I attached a picture of them. They would be easy for everyone to get to. I would recommend a picnic lunch as it's a ways to go to town and back.

Cindy

[leverettfinn]

Mapquest tells me it will take me about 7 to 8 hours...and I can't leave here until Friday so I'll be there some time late Friday afternoon...Why don't we try to arrange a dinner spot?

Lauren

[LarrySeiler]

I suggest the Northwoods Supper Club just off hwy 41 ...located between Negaunee and Marquette. Driving east from Negaunee toward Marquette, it would be an exit off to the right. A large billboard gets your attention, and the road is a couple miles from entering Marquette itself.

I have condensed a long Bigbook.com url to a small Tiny url link, and using this you can see a map, jot down the phone number of the restaurant.
http://tinyurl.com/2h2p5

The restaurant is quaint, and my family has eaten there on a number of occasions. Seafood, steaks...and so forth. Nice atmosphere. There is an outdoor path, a creek, floral setting and so forth outside the restaurant for viewing while dining and for people to enjoy walking.

I could try and reserve a couple tables during the preweek I'm up there, and if that sounds good to everyone, we just need to agree on a time, perhaps around 7pm? Remember upper Michigan is in another time zone...an hour ahead of say Wisconsin.

Larry

[irish artist]

Sounds good, I've been there in a previous trip, its a neat resturant. I'll be in Marquette hours before that since I'm leaving Thusday morn/ Weds night.

[LarrySeiler]

There had been some road work on 510 north...as the road had washboarded a bit. That work has been going on a couple years now. Probably fine now, and I'll probably be trout fishing up there one day out of the week so I should know ahead of time if the route to Yellow Dog is good.

They were widening some parts of the road, and asphalting a section of it.

Yellow Dog would surely give you artists a sense of the many falls upper Michigan is known for. Physically...you would be carrying your equipment in about 1/3rd of a mile or more on a fairly easy trail. Its a popular visiting spot, though moderate to low traffic. Might be 2 or 3 vehicles parked there whenever I'm there.

I'd say then to balance out the area too for paintings...the beaches along the Wetmore Landing tract 3 miles north of Marquette leading up to Presque Isle would be greatly enjoyed with plenty of room to spread out.

Another possibility is painting the Marquette Coastguard/lighthouse that juts out into the lake.

Here's a couple quick (one hour) 6"x 9" oil pochade studies I did there. The first is on the public beach side...and there are rocks and bluffs that jut out and lead into the lake which are interesting too. Just the station caught my eye on this one. The other is the other side of the station...and done on a very windy storm threatening day.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/31-May-2004/532-marquette_coastguard_station.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/31-May-2004/532-mrqt_cstgrd_station2.jpg

Cindy... great to hear you got out and took a stab at it!!! I'll check it out, landscape forum? You'll probably get more encouragement and suggestions posting it in the plein air...let me know if you'd like it moved, but I'll comment where you have it.

I painted and developed my reputation instudio for near 20 years...and instudio was where I could labor and control everything at my pace and comfort. Many works took 200 to 300 hours to complete. Those were the wildlife art works, some posted on my website.

I won't go into here all that led me to getting outdoors about eight years ago but I did have to go thru a period of giving myself permission to do this. It is at first difficult, yes and humbling for an accomplished painter to face his or her obvious ineptness at this thing, and inept is exactly how I felt. I get stubborn though when I want to do a thing and find out at first I can't.

I felt I needed to observe natural light...and so did many pochades, which are studies afield. Their only purpose is as a reference, and my intent was never that they should be seen. Therefore I could be as spontaneous and direct with the method I saw fit to get visual info down. These then I brought indoors for reference to color correct any photos I took as well.

It was my agent at the time that came into my studio/gallery and saw a stack of these against a corner of my wall. She insisted on taking a bunch to some galleries in the Minneapolis/St Paul area...and I greatly protested.

I finally relented, and several days later she stopped by again because she had sold all of them.

I was shocked, because in my wildlife art years I had been used to judges counting the rows of scales and rays of fins on my carvings and paintings to see if I had various species of trout right, or counting primaries and secondaries and feather groups on birds and so forth. So, in my mind the spontaneity thick strokes of paint would prove to be an abomination.

To my amazement, there was a whole other patronage out there that had keenly developed aesthetic appreciation for the direct honest statements for which artists purely responded in paint. Soon...there was more demand for my little studies than the larger pieces. People could more afford the smaller ones...but even those were selling at that time $250 to $450 for roughly 2 hours effort. My prices have advanced proportionately to my experience and what the market will bear...but, its all good.

The thing is though...just think of it as celebration. In time..as the work progresses, you will find patrons celebrating right along with you.

Another way to think of it is like asking great basketball players to play a game of horse. Same ball. Same hoop.

It doesn't mean one is no longer a basketball player because they were caught playing horse. Its just a different game, a short one, and for fun.

However...I'll bet some basketball players would consider becoming predominantly "horse" players if suddenly sports fans developed and they made a good amount of money to do it.

Just have fun, and other than the black flies...it sounds exactly like thats what you did! I encountered black flies one day on the beach up at Lake Superior..and it wasn't fun. If they are out...its a matter of which direction the winds are coming from. I did finish that one, but I did nearly an Irish jig the whole time! hahaha....egads!

Larry

[irish artist]

Sounds funny Larry!! I like hearing about such stories because most of us rarely get to look into the life of another artist. You write so well, have you thought about putting some of this into a book? It could have your paintings as illustrations-I presume you have kept a photographic reference of your works?

I think the Yellow Dog that Cindy mentioned and the photo enclosed, its a great idea and the light house is even better. There are so many good spots in this section of the UP. Its going to be hard to decide. And to choose which medium to use!! Headaches, Headaches. I'm leaning towards watercolors and am thinking about buying a watercolor journal just for this trip. Any other watercolorists going? Anyone?

[leverettfinn]

One Watercolorist here....but might bring acrylics too....Journal is a great idea....I really am going to try to fight my nature and keep it simple ...having said that....I will bring only watercolor :D .....and my camera.... and my.....:rolleyes:

Lauren

edit...wanted to add this link....for inspiration...and a terrific idea for a homemade watercolor sketchbook/journal!
http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=118395

[LarrySeiler]

I'm flexible with mediums...but find oils the greater challenge thus, I do more of them and fight on. They have been my bread and butter in galleries.

Watercolors are fun...and I love bold little dashes of color in the Sargent style outdoors.

With pastels I lay acrylic underpainting down and build up over the top...but I need to get a second easel set up that I'll be happy with for more of that.

I do have a book coming out, hopefully by June's end...in a CD Rom version format...Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0...which will have a version of Acrobat in it for easy install for those that do not have Acrobat. If things all work right, about 200 pages in length.

Then I have one other CD Rom book in mind....and after that I begin to approach publishers to produce a hard copy book format, but no doubt that will take a couple years to put into the making.

When the first one is done...I'll have a banner ad announcing it at WC...and available on my forum in the Industry Partners...

funny Lauren...because we can and often do haul lots of stuff to a site to paint, while the whole idea of the painting itself is reducing much complexity to a simple statement! :D

I used to have a painting partner on the west side of the state when I lived there....but I have worked so isolated, that its going to be much fun painting with other artists from WC. Really looking forward to it. I plan on taking a bunch of digital pictures and then sharing here on WC...of course, not to embarrass anyone but just share our fun!

Larry

[Shelley Grund]

It's exciting to hear plans!
I'll be there early Friday - probably around lunch time - but dinner at 7:00 p.m. at the restaurant noted is a good place for us all to meet.
May I recommend that we decide upon 2 locations on Saturday, both fairly close in proximity of each other? A picnic lunch is ok - if there's a way to get one or make one - I'll be at a hotel, guess I could pack a cooler... but lunch would be good time to take a break and compare notes.
ANYWAY - do we plan on a sunrise plein air event - maybe on Sunday morning? If so, what location would give us the best lighting effects?
And, those who can remain for the rest of Sunday we'd need one more location - SO - I see that we need 4 spots planned out.... love the waterfall on the Yellow Dog river Cindy posted (love the name of the river!) and of course we will want at least one painting session on the beaches of Lake Michigan (oops- I mean Lake Superior) somewhere.... And then I'd love to see a demo by you Larry....
Those are my thoughts.....
Cindy - I've put you on our list:

Current numbers UPDATE:
June 25, 26, 27, 2004

Shelley (EconoLodge)
Lauren & husband/friend (EconoLodge)
Irish Artist & Husband (Day's Inn)
Larry & wife (private cabin)
Susan & husband
Iris & Hubby (Guitar & Camping)
Cindy - Saturday only

Would we all be too exhausted to try an evening interior still life satuday night??? Yeah, I suppose so....

[Shelley Grund]

The Lake Superior Bike Fest is happening in Marquette during the weekend we are there. Sounds like stuff starts Friday evening with an evening bike race downtown.... I'm not a fan, but just thought we should be aware.
Details:
http://www.superiorbikefest.com/bike_web_events.html

[leverettfinn]

Now there's a plein aire challenge! a bike race :eek:

[LarrySeiler]

If Cindy is coming Saturday only and we wish to paint in close proxmity to a second site...(Cindy mentioning her interest in the Yellow Dog) then a run to Marquette back and forth might be consider a marathon. From the McClure Dam river bridge on hwy 510...Yellow Dog is perhaps a 15 minute's drive north. From that bridge to say the beaches into Marquette...15 minutes. Just depends how people feel about a 30 minute drive or so.

I have done a number of paintings around the bridge itself...this one on the west side...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/31-May-2004/532-mcclure_bridge4wc.jpg

here is an instudio piece developed from a pochade oil study on the east side of the bridge-

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/31-May-2004/532-deadriver.jpg

I like backlit subjects as you can tell from this one...and the sun of course rising all up toward noon. In later day...sun is then behind you.

the problem logistically with the bridge is there may be room for 2-3 painters on a little shore's edge aside the bridge...and more limited to the other side.

There is a steep hill down to our family cabin...but if a few painters wanted to hop in and take one vehicle, there would be room to paint on our shore, the dock and back area of our sauna overlooking the deadriver. (that's if my sister with her two kids are not up from Chicago which would disturb the pristine sense of the place that weekend!) I did these three from there...showing them here just to give you an idea what you might encounter-

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/31-May-2004/532-westernpoint_deadriver3.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/31-May-2004/532-deadriver_clouds.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/31-May-2004/532-mcclures_southshore.jpg

Again though...if a 30 to 40 minute drive from Yellow Dog to Marquette is not considered a long drive...we could stop to eat our lunches at one of the parks near to the shores of Lake Superior, and paint. If we did that...I'd suggest painting near there first in the morning, then eat, and then the Yellow Dog. The reason being that the falls environment has a lot of trees surrounding the river...and the sun being higher closer to early afternoon might make for more ideal painting conditions.

One other possibility if painting near the bridge appeals to people. We could split up...and a few take the bridge location while the others go to the Yellow Dog spot; then meet up for lunch and swap locations.

thoughts.....??????

See...these are some of those details and experiences I'm going to be mentally noting...so I'm glad this isn't any kind of workshop event! Looking forward to the hindsight experiences we'll all gain.

Larry

[irish artist]

I like that, paint at the Park Saturday and Yellow Dog later. What about a car-pool for me? My Hubby wants to drop me off in care of the group so that he can fish or hike. He could come back and pick me up for Yellow Dog if necessary. Others may want to car-pool also, if so speak up and maybe someone has a SUV? If not, I'll have the hubby return and pick up several of us for a ride to Yellow Dog because we have a SUV and can fit in six plus gear. Of course all this could get decided at the Resturant on Friday but I wanted you to be aware of it-that I'd like a car pool or will provide one myself. Whatever the group wants..........can't wait. Can't wait for your book either Larry, congradulations. :)

[irish artist]

One Watercolorist here....but might bring acrylics too....Journal is a great idea....I really am going to try to fight my nature and keep it simple ...having said that....I will bring only watercolor :D .....and my camera.... and my.....:rolleyes:

Lauren

edit...wanted to add this link....for inspiration...and a terrific idea for a homemade watercolor sketchbook/journal!
http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=118395

Oh Boy! Yep, that's a great idea!! Thanks Lauren. I have experience with making a journal, I made one of my trip to Montana and the Canadian Rodeo-Calgary Stampede. It was SO much fun to make, didn't contribute to "bread and butter" as Larry says but I open it and instantly am transported back in time two years age when I went to Montana, passed through Glacier National Park, drove on Going-To-The-Sun Road, drove always north-ward to Canada.
We sneaked in the Black Hills, the Badlands, Wyoming's Devil's Tower-heck of a trip-and it all comes back in the journal.

[Shelley Grund]

As it looks now I'll be arriving alone - my husband isn't interested in joining the group.... I'll be driving my Expedition - room for 5 and gear. Would enjoy company...

30 Minute drive is do-able for me. And, I appreciate all your insite, Larry, concerning the best locations for our painting sessions in regards to the day light and how it will effect the locations.

Yes - Lauren - a bike race would definitely be a challenge ;)

[cindyjames]

My husband will be dropping me off with the group also, so I will need a ride if we're at more than one location Saturday.

County Rd 510 to the falls at Yellow Dog was in good shape, no construction. They replaced some areas of the gravel road with blacktop. We came down from the north, we had been camping further west near the Yellow Dog, 510's good all the way through.

I saw the falls in early afternoon, Larry's right, that would be the best for painting there.

Looking forward to it!

Cindy

[LarrySeiler]

thanks Cindy...that's good to hear about 510...! :clap:

I got a report from my brother in law tonight...up at our cabin opening it up that a guy that built a new home on a hill high up above us and back created major ruts and mud in part of our access road to our cabin. Evidently our access is an easement arrangement...but we have to get him to level, grate and repair our road. I have a 4 whl drive, so I'm not worried...but I have a solution. He wants a place to put his small boat in by the lake....so, perhaps a carrot on the stick. Fix and keep the access road in good repair and condition...and perhaps we'll offer lakeshore access when we aren't using the cabin... (hee heeee....) :angel:

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

Hi Larry,
How about something near Presque Isle?
My hubby and I are going to try to get a cabin there... :-)

Or do you have any suggestions for places to camp? (preferably a "modern" vs. rustic site-- I have to have a shower! :-P )

RE: oils vs. Water colors vs. alkyds....

I haven't ever done plein aire.... How can I keep my canvases from smudging up my whole car if I use oils? I don't have one of those nifty canvas board-holding boxes... , any suggestions (or should I bite the bullet and get one??

How about using oil pastels or oil paint bars? Do you think that would work (with some turps to do some touch ups? I have oil bars, but I haven't ever tried to manipulate them with turps... I do know that they are much like oil pastels, only they will "skin" over in a day or so.

Has anyone used alkyds enough to know how quickly they dry?

I have a french easel but it seems VERY heavy... any suggestions for how I might lighten my load? in the past, when carting around my oils, I have a "tool box on wheels" that has a handle, but I imagine that that will be way to heavy and cumbersom to drag down any kind of trails or dirt roads....

Unfortunately, I am not known for packing lightly... LOL

--Iris

[LarrySeiler]

Hi Larry,
How about something near Presque Isle?
My hubby and I are going to try to get a cabin there... :-)


I'm hoping most definitely painting near Presque Isle...yes.

I have one plein air, 16"x 20" done on a small isolated beach in a pocket (one of many) just north of the Wetmore Landing-
http://www.artlandishconcepts.org/presque_isle_series3.htm

Presque Isle can be seen to the right in the distance of this area, out into Lake Superior.

Check out this past demo I did on one of these pockets, and you'll see pics of the walk into the beach area...one of the beaches looking south toward Marquette and Sugarloaf Mountain. There are a few mpeg sound/video clips you can check out as well...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Articles/Larry_Seiler/137/



Or do you have any suggestions for places to camp? (preferably a "modern" vs. rustic site-- I have to have a shower! :-P )

I have a Marquette area recreational tourism/Chamber of Commerce brochure at home. I'll try and look tonight at it and see what info I can glean as for types of camping places, facilities and such.



RE: oils vs. Water colors vs. alkyds....

I haven't ever done plein aire.... How can I keep my canvases from smudging up my whole car if I use oils? I don't have one of those nifty canvas board-holding boxes... , any suggestions (or should I bite the bullet and get one??

A simple, do-able easy affordable method is to stop at a Pizza Hut or some place like that and ask to buy a number of empty pizza cardboard boxes. The largest probably holds a 16" pizza, which would be ideal if you had some 12" x 16" panels. Get a few smaller boxes for smaller ones. Put a wet painting in one, stack 'em, use a bungee cord to go around them.

One of my devices are a couple metal ammo boxes I bought at Army & Navy Surplus stores. They are heavy metal with rubber seals in the lids that clamp down. Keeps moisture, dust out...and holds smells in. Nice for travel.

What I had to do was take pine boards, create grooves in them on a routing table for panels to fit in...and I glued them to the inside ends of the boxes. One holds 6"x 9"s and the other 12" x 16"s...

There are also a number of outlets now that you can buy affordable plastic wet paint panel holders, and even cardboard. I'll try and dig that info up later too for those interested.


I have a french easel but it seems VERY heavy... any suggestions for how I might lighten my load? in the past, when carting around my oils, I have a "tool box on wheels" that has a handle, but I imagine that that will be way to heavy and cumbersom to drag down any kind of trails or dirt roads....

Unfortunately, I am not known for packing lightly... LOL

--Iris

For one...you might try and paint with a limited palette. I have two palettes at the present, one is a split primary which focuses on warm and cool color concepts. A cool and warm blue, cool and warm red and so forth.

that palette is Ultramarine blue, phthalo blue, alizarin crimson and cadmium red medium, hansa yellow or cadmium lemon yellow and cadmium yellow medium. I use Naples Yellow for many earth tones/values and for tinting instead of white. White tints...but it is a cool color and robs color of its high key chroma that imitates the strength of the sun. Also...I add viridian to that palette and make nice darks. I don't use black. I mix the blues with alizarin or cad red....or viridian with the reds. It gives me great darks with character for varying contrasts and effect.

My limited palette is French Ultramarine blue, Cadmium Lemon Yellow, W&N Bright Red, and titanium white. I still like my Naples Yellow for all the forementioned reasons.

A limited palette choice might lighten your load and be instructional on what you can do with such. You can see what I have done the past month or so with the limited palette here-
http://www.artlandishconcepts.org/currentworks.htm


Medium (alkyds, watercolors...) really the advantages and disadvantages vary among artists. Alkyds dry faster than oils...watercolors can be good for plein air studies and ideal for travel. When dry...they are dry. One pizza box could hold all our efforts. Carry one masonite board, tape your watercolor paper on and put the masonite panel into your french easel.

In fact...you could gesso heavier watercolor paper...tape that down and paint alkyds on it. Endless possibilities. What's best is as varied as the artists themselves.

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

Hi Larry,

My usual pallette consists of:

Cadmium Red
Cadmium Orange
Cadmium Yellow Pale
Viridian
Cobalt Blue
French Ultramarine
Dioxazine Violet
Permanent Magenta
Quinacridone Magenta
Titanium White

I don't use black at all in my oil painting palette, and do a lot of mixing on the canvas...of course my normal subject matter is currently abstracts based upon music. Haven't done many landscapes, so this will be a new adventure for me.

I also have a nice little Cotman watercolor set (with about 30 WC paints) as well as tubes of the Artist quality water colors that I put into a little palette that has "paint containers" on it (that can be sealed). However, I'm not that confident as to my abilities with the water colors... so I'm not sure if I would feel comfortable using it as my medium...

I love the pizza box idea and also I HAVE some ammo boxes... never even thought about converting them! (I use them to store my sculpture (wood & stone carving) tools.) I will have to see what I can come up with between now and then!

This is going to be so much fun! My hubby and I are driving up on Thursday evening-- we will stay in Gaylord Thurs. Evening (at a KOA Kamping Kabin) and then head up to Marquette on Friday Morning from there. I am going to have my digicam fully loaded and ready to shoot a lot of reference photos! I have some B/W photos from a visit to Presque Isle a few years back... will call on the cabin @ Presque Isle tomorrow... wish me luck--is it close to where everyone else is staying?

--Iris

[Shelley Grund]

This is going to be so much fun! My hubby and I are driving up on Thursday evening-- we will stay in Gaylord Thurs. Evening (at a KOA Kamping Kabin) and then head up to Marquette on Friday Morning from there. I am going to have my digicam fully loaded and ready to shoot a lot of reference photos! I have some B/W photos from a visit to Presque Isle a few years back... will call on the cabin @ Presque Isle tomorrow... wish me luck--is it close to where everyone else is staying?

--Iris
Iris - I'm a little confused. Are you saying you will be staying at Presque Isle during the weekend? I'm not familiar with the Michigan, so I looked it up on the map and I found Presque Isle on Lake Huron on the mainland of Michigan. Our get-together is going to be in Marquette on Lake Superior in the Upper Pennisula of Michigan... is there another Presque Isle I don't know about?

[LarrySeiler]

Iris - I'm a little confused. Are you saying you will be staying at Presque Isle during the weekend? I'm not familiar with the Michigan, so I looked it up on the map and I found Presque Isle on Lake Huron on the mainland of Michigan. Our get-together is going to be in Marquette on Lake Superior in the Upper Pennisula of Michigan... is there another Presque Isle I don't know about?

Beginning on the north end of Marquette is a park, called Presque Isle park. It has bike and foot walking trails that go north (don't remember how far but well past Wetmore Landing). This tract of shoreline is the Presque Isle tract.

As I showed in previous paintings... standing on an isolated beach accessed from the Wetmore Landing parking lot...I painted beach, rocks and pine with an itty bitty island seen off to the right. This island is called Presque Isle... and from the mainland shore is about 100 yards away. Shallow enough that many wade calf to waist deep across. Some carry gear over their heads to spend the day and I think even camp. So, there is a Presque Isle there, yes. Some call it plain ole "Presque Isle"...some "Little Presque Isle"...

Not the same as the more well known...

Here is a link of "little Presque isle...and the Harlow cabins nearby available for rent...
http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10365_24196-66754--,00.html

I found this picture online of the little island off the mainland, this being about 3-4 miles north of Marquette...
http://www.lakesuperiorphoto.com/marquette/little_presque_isle_looking_east.html

Larry

[Shelley Grund]

Thanks, Larry!
I thought there had been a reference to this Isle earlier in this thread, but couldn't find it - I obviously didn't look hard enough :) Beautiful spot... I probably would like to rent a cabin there someday, but think I prefer to have running water for a nice hot shower during this stay...

[pinkbubelz]

LOL or if you want a really refreshing dip, just take a quick jump into Lake Superior (icy cold - 34 degrees year round (or something like that), I hear... deepest & coldest of the Great Lakes)... I have to check into the cabins, I understand they may be "rustic"... I don't mind being in a cabin, but I will want at least a real toilet around and some sort of running water.... LOL so, I will have to check into the cabins that Larry mentioned. I wonder if they are the same ones I found on the State of Michigan campground list?

Presque Isle is gorgeous! My hubby and I even saw deer -- a doe and her fawns... we were only about 20 feet away (yes, MUCH TOO CLOSE for safety reasons... but we didn't even realize it until we were practically on top of them!) I LOVE the rocky coast and it is just plain beautiful in the early fall, so I'm sure it will be really gorgeous in the spring as well!

I only hope that it is no where nearly as rainy as it has been in the Metro Detroit area!

--Iris

[pinkbubelz]

BTW-- I found some of the new "watercolor canvases" that are made by Fredrix. I am going to play with them this weekend and see how I like them-- if they seem to work, I think I might grab a few and bring them with me up north.

Has anyone else experienced this product?

it's called "Archival Watercolor Canvas Board" by Fredrix. supposed to be 100% cotton artist canvas with a special gesso just for water based paints (Acid free) and on a hardboard core. I saw them at the local Utrecht art supply store in Detroit... I'm going to see how I like working with it. we'll see... :-) I think I'm going to cross post this inquiry at the water color forum and see what others think...

--Iris

[irish artist]

BTW-- I found some of the new "watercolor canvases"

Has anyone else experienced this product?

it's called "Archival Watercolor Canvas Board" by Fredrix. supposed to be 100% cotton artist canvas with a special gesso just for water based paints (Acid free) and on a hardboard core.

--Iris

Oh, they are the best!! You should bring at least half a dozen, plus watercolor paints and the other thing-alykd will work on them also. Canvases in pizza boxes, great idea. You could do another dozen in oils, I can tell you're going to inspire all of us with your recreativity. Way to go, Bubbles!

Why don't you post the plien-aire painting that you did at the golf course just to show us all what we can expect in plien-aire painting-you know the one you spoke of back several posts ago. I couldn't wait to see a sample painting as I've never seen your art on WC!

What do you think of a show-and-tell session for Sat. eve. group?

[Shelley Grund]

LOL or if you want a really refreshing dip, just take a quick jump into Lake Superior (icy cold - 34 degrees year round (or something like that), I hear... deepest & coldest of the Great Lakes)...



BR-R-R-R-R... :)
A cool dip is fine for a hot day, but not first thing in the morning :)
The only cabins I found were the rustic ones... good luck - keep us posted.

[LarrySeiler]

Hi Larry,

I don't use black at all in my oil painting palette, and do a lot of mixing on the canvas...of course my normal subject matter is currently abstracts based upon music. Haven't done many landscapes, so this will be a new adventure for me.

You Know, Iris...I spent so many years instudio on labored works of 200 to 300 hours in a single work geared for competition, and prided myself on hyper realism. Taking outdoors eight years ago helped me realize that we are all abstract painters really. I have actually shared several of the following with people that held some prejudice against realistic works and artists that paint them asking what they thought of my abstract work-

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Jun-2004/532-closeup_darks2.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Jun-2004/532-closeup_darks3.jpg

the abstract nature here is obvious..and responses are good until I then show the painting these smaller closeups were taken from-
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Jun-2004/532-presque_isle_pleinair.jpg

So...my advice is...relax...a painterly spontaneous realistic painting is an interweaving of abstract parts, and seen from a number of steps back comes together like good friends of unique background to form a good community!

Squint your eyes..judge what you see as your little abstract heart desires. Trust your intuitive and instincts...and put it down. Watch the magic come together and have fun because of it!


I also have a nice little Cotman watercolor set (with about 30 WC paints) as well as tubes of the Artist quality water colors that I put into a little palette that has "paint containers" on it (that can be sealed). However, I'm not that confident as to my abilities with the water colors... so I'm not sure if I would feel comfortable using it as my medium...

I have a cotman too...and at least it doesn't take up much space. Mine is a smaller fold up variety with about a dozen colors.

With watercolor...I do not do traditional stretching of paper...no spraying with a bottle...no major washes. I will anticipate where I want some white to poke around and thru forms and lay down some masking fluid. Start with a pencil sketch, and then use bold little marks of color. I highly recommend getting a copy of the book out that focuses entirely on Singer Sargent's watercolors. That got me going, in part because I never thought of myself as a watercolorist.

I used to teach painting workshops thru a university extension summer program, and I'd walk thru the room during breaks where the watercolor workshop was going on and see all this stuff everyone brought. I mean, it looked official!...and people using salt for effects, you name it. So, it seemed too over my head to bother with. Seemed so much simpler back in high school when we used the little prang kits.

Well...the Cotman and Sargent's book brought that little sense of "it can be simple" back. These were done on Cotman W&N watercolor paper pads, which sat on my lap and my little kit held in my hand. Nothing could be simpler-

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Jun-2004/532-peshtigo_earlyfall72.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Jun-2004/532-winteroffroad_wtrclrsketch.JPG


This is going to be so much fun! My hubby and I are driving up on Thursday evening-- we will stay in Gaylord Thurs. Evening (at a KOA Kamping Kabin) and then head up to Marquette on Friday Morning from there. I am going to have my digicam fully loaded and ready to shoot a lot of reference photos! I have some B/W photos from a visit to Presque Isle a few years back... will call on the cabin @ Presque Isle tomorrow... wish me luck--is it close to where everyone else is staying?

--Iris

The Harlow cabins are only a few miles north of Marquette...so, nothing is really far. I haven't had a chance yet to really look over (find) my Marquette recreational brochure...but I'll try yet.

take care

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

LOL...
Actually, I used to be a realist painter-- mostly figurative works, a few stil lifes, too. However my figures were not "lifelike" in color-- I tended to use a lot of color purples, reds, yellows, greens, etc. and to make my figures be rather sculptural in nature.

I've since gone into a more abstract realm--trying to combine abstracted figures with broad strokes indicating color and music and light. Sometimes a "landscape" might creep into my paintings, but mostly, I'm letting my canvas lead me where it will in my current works...

I have one watercolor posted in the Round Robin II project at the Water Color forum....

I have to scan in my golf course plein air painting, so that I can show you what I did. However, I "cheated" and worked on it a bit more after the fact at home... :-D

I've been doing a lot of glazing right now with watercolors at home. Work on about 6 mini paintings at a time (4 x 6 Strathmore Watercolor Postcards.) They are the perfect size for my little masonite drawing board. :-)

I tried to do some plein air before, but I felt very intimidated, because usually there were other people around me and then I get self-conscious because watercolors are not my primary media.... That's why I bought the french easel, but it weighs a ton! I will see about practicing at home (our house faces an empty lot next door with trees and such.) and see what I come up with... One thing for sure, I'm probably going to end up with a much more colorful landscape than what we will see... :-)

Still haven't had a chance to check out the cabins. Maybe tomorrow.

--Iris

[pinkbubelz]

Here is my little painting!
Let me know what you think.... it's about 3.5 x 5.5 big.

edit: Hmmm, the colors seem to have darkened when scanning, the original is slightly brighter, but you should get the gist of it.

--Iris

[irish artist]

That is nice!! Why didn't you post sooner? We've heard so much from you in this thread; your art show, all the experience you have in art, ect. You shouldn't be so shy, give us the benefit of your advice.

How long are you planning to stay, I think about two dozen canvas, different kinds ought to do it. You can use the watercolors on the special canvas. If you do as well as the posted art, you shouldn't have any problems bringing anything you want to try. Larry sounds like he's going to be your guide, give you the tips, so, instant success.

Shall we have a Sat. evening show-and-tell gang? We can all view the art Bubbles is going to present us. She can give us all tips about how she did it.

[Shelley Grund]

I'll be using my oils during the weekend.
LOL - 2 doz canvases - boy is that ambitious!
I went to a local art supply store today and bought 2 sheets of 300# Winsor & Newton Watercolour Paper. I plan to gesso the sheets and cut them into small manageable sizes for plaine air. I'll also bring some small canvases. I think the pizza box idea is SUPER and will be making a run to a pizza place to get my suppy.
Larry - the store I went to is in Green Bay, named Tradewinds. The lady there told me to tell you *HI* - I feels so embarrassed - I go there all the time - she knows me, but I have never gotten her name... so I'm afraid you don't know who I'm talking about! She works the cash register all the time.... Said she went to the same school as your step mom.... Anyway - she thinks you're GREAT!
A Saturday evening "show & tell" would be fun!

[irish artist]

LOL - 2 doz canvases - boy is that ambitious
A Saturday evening "show & tell" would be fun!

Bubbles is talking about oils/watercolor/alkyds and bringing a wheeled cart to tote it. She has all the experience-a one-woman show in Detroit, a teacher's job, an art career. Just look at what she posted that was painted at a simple golf course, she seems well qualified to show us some superior works that can be dashed off, so she should bring more supplies than the rest of us would need. Besides the experience she talks about knowing what the area is like and is renting a cabin, so she's experienced in that also. We should all expect her to SHINE during this weekend. If we have highly-skilled persons there (beside Larry) we could all benefit from watching them create masterpieces-en-plien-aire.

Thinking about supplies again, you mentioned making do with two sheets of WC paper and some small canvas, but with Bubbles' experience 22x26 canvases should be just right for her.

[LarrySeiler]

Larry - the store I went to is in Green Bay, named Tradewinds. The lady there told me to tell you *HI* - I feels so embarrassed - I go there all the time - she knows me, but I have never gotten her name... so I'm afraid you don't know who I'm talking about! She works the cash register all the time.... Said she went to the same school as your step mom.... Anyway - she thinks you're GREAT!
A Saturday evening "show & tell" would be fun!

hahaha....her name is Nancy..! A very wonderful generous person with her time and in promoting art and artists. She works with the art league down there, and they brought me down a couple years ago to demonstrate and talk about plein air with their group. I've known Nancy for quite sometime...

Next time you are in there...please give her my regards!

A show and tell would be fun. I'll see what I can do about finding a place where maybe we could get together. You know...some of you staying in motels might find a lounging area or place we could gather within the motel.

I'd bring my wife for that...she'd enjoy all your company and seeing what everyone has done. :clap:

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

Hi Irish Artist,

Um... I really hope that you are kidding about me! :-P I actually work at a university in the admissions office... and think of myself as a life-long student... always trying to learn new things. I hardly think that my experience in landscapes is anything to share at this point! :-P Still a newbie there! I definitely do not think of myself as an expert!

I'm going to try to condense my stuff into my french easel and see if I can practice toting it around to see if I can narrow down my art supplies....I also just went out and got a small supply of Sennelier oil pastels to bring-- the box set I bought didn't have as many of the colors that I usually use... :-)

Oh, and here's a cool little tip:

I've been using the Strathmore watercolor post cards (4 x 6) to practice water colors on...
I use the blue painters tape to tape the edges down and work mostly on a dry paper--I don't usually wet it first...
I use a masonite sketch board and can tape about 6 postcards down at once... :-)

I use the water colors as well as some water color pencils...

When I'm done with my pictures, I use one of those small "ITOYA" art profolios... that can fit pictures up to 5 x 7 in size. It's acid free, so a good way to protect your small watercolors... :-)

I may try the pizza boxes on some small oils, but definitely going to try it in my back yard first, so that I can work the bugs out of what I need to carry around... :-)

--Iris

[pinkbubelz]

Oh, and I think a "show & tell" would be great! Part of what I like about working with other artists is the ability to bounce off ideas....

By the way, I'm asking my dad if he and my mom will come and join us-- My dad's an architect and he's the one who can paint really nice landscapes--I guess it has a lot to do with his architecture background... I think he might have a lot of fun working with other artists if given the chance! (for Christmas one year, I bought him some Winton oil paints to paint with on his spare time... :-) )

If he decides to come, I'll let everyone know!


--Iris

[pinkbubelz]

Oh!
and, do you know if pizza boxes are any cheaper at Sam's Club or Costco? I understand that Sam's club carries pizza supplies, so I imagine they might have the boxes as well.

--Iris

[irish artist]

Hi Irish Artist,

Um... I really hope that you are kidding about me! :-P I actually work at a university in the admissions office... and think of myself as a life-long student... always trying to learn new things. I hardly think that my experience in landscapes is anything to share at this point! :-P Still a newbie there! I definitely do not think of myself as an expert!

I'm going to try to condense my stuff into my french easel and see if I can practice toting it around to see if I can narrow down my art supplies....I also just went out and got a small supply of Sennelier oil pastels to bring-- the box set I bought didn't have as many of the colors that I usually use... :-)

Oh, and here's a cool little tip:

I've been using the Strathmore watercolor post cards (4 x 6) to practice water colors on...
I use the blue painters tape to tape the edges down and work mostly on a dry paper--I don't usually wet it first...
I use a masonite sketch board and can tape about 6 postcards down at once... :-)

I use the water colors as well as some water color pencils...

When I'm done with my pictures, I use one of those small "ITOYA" art profolios... that can fit pictures up to 5 x 7 in size. It's acid free, so a good way to protect your small watercolors... :-)

I may try the pizza boxes on some small oils, but definitely going to try it in my back yard first, so that I can work the bugs out of what I need to carry around... :-)

--Iris

Iris, Not at all (not kiddding, I mean). I figure you're a shy person, because with all the supplies you are familiar with, you seem to know alot about making art, more than anyone here has spoken of. You know the area, you said so, and are renting a cabin? So what was I kidding about?

More experienced artist can paint more and faster. My instructor last summer (Carol Rhodes) thought artist who worked with more paper (or canvas) and faster were more likely to leave their inhabitations behind and do better work. And of course we want to see it (the masterpieces-en-plien-aire). Now you just said that art runs in the family-so I figure you know more than you're letting on.

As far as supplies, you asked about canvases, and I told you what I thought you should bring. Depends on how long you are staying. If someone else wants to paint smaller because they aren't as experienced as you, you shouldn't let that stop you doing what you are experienced with. Which is what I'm doing--taking what I'm experienced with and painting the way I know that I can be most comfortable with. But I'm not as experienced as you. So bring on the materpieces-beginners need to see the pros at work in order to learn. :D

Let's see you're bringing oil/watercolor/alkyds/oil pastel/....................I can't wait to see your masterpieces Sat. evening. I'm sure you're going to dazzle us with brilliance.

[Shelley Grund]

Really looking forward to this! Will be fun AND educational to see how each of us tackles the plein air challenges! Myself - I tend to concentrate on one painting at a time, 2-3 hours for each, since the light changes so quickly. I haven't really tried "color sketches" which could take a shorter period - guess I should plan on doing that during at least one session. Anyway - that's why I said the quantity of canvases seemed ambitious... If there's about 4 sessions during the weekend I'm guessing I'll be lucky to have maybe 4 paintings all in different stages of completion considering set-up times and just enjoying the environment :)
Thanks Larry - now that you've given me her name I believe I did get introduced to her a couple of years ago - I am just so BAD with names! Will be such a relief to walk in the shop and actually say "HI Nancy"! I agree - she is just wonderful! I do enjoy her! I'll be sure to tell her you say hi (she thought you might not remember who she was!) She was very interested in our gathering in Marquette.
Iris - I'll probably do a few "dry runs" myself. I live out here in farm country in NE Wisconsin so should be able to find lots of material to paint.

[leverettfinn]

Ohhhh ! Love the idea of a show and tell!

I am a "fly by the seat of my pants" kind of gal so haven't thought too much about what I'm bringing........but have decided to only bring watercolor....and maybe some tubes of casein....(opaque)..... Pizza box idea is awesome....

Hubby is not coming....trying to convince non-artist (but creative) friend to come...but if not...I'm still there :D

Iris...sam's club probably has pizza boxes....but you might have to buy 200 :D

Lauren

[LarrySeiler]

Ohhhh ! Love the idea of a show and tell!


Iris...sam's club probably has pizza boxes....but you might have to buy 200 :D

Lauren

If you just stop by a Dominos...maybe a couple Pizza Huts and have your I'm an artist storyline prepared, you may very likely find a number of them more than happy to give if not charge just a very little for some empty boxes. They come flat, and you just fold 'em together. Give that a try before looking to buy them...

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

If you just stop by a Dominos...maybe a couple Pizza Huts and have your I'm an artist storyline prepared, you may very likely find a number of them more than happy to give if not charge just a very little for some empty boxes. They come flat, and you just fold 'em together. Give that a try before looking to buy them...

Larry

HI Larry,
That sounds like a good idea... better something for nothing than to have to pay for it, I always say!

By the way, for those needing 'painting rags" for cleaning brushes, etc., Here's a tip I use-- I save old cotton tube socks that have holes in them, etc. (we have a rough tile on our kitchen floor and go through lots of socks... :) ) They are just the right size and very absorbent for both oils and water colors, etc... And, they are small enough to get rid of easily when you are done. I often have a few old tube socks that I wipe my brushes on... Plus, they don't really cost you anything! Other places to get old rags-- how 'bout going to garage sales? Lots of people get rid of old towels for pennies on the dollar! :-)

Oh, and my friend recently had a baby and gave me lots of little glass babyfood jars--good for holding a small amount of turps and other medium (for oil & acrylic painters).

I also heard someone mention in the water color forum about using the containers from powdered drink mixes (like countrytime lemonade or Tang, etc.) The tops are like the size of a small saucer--and you can put fresh water in the body of the container.

There are lots of people on "freecycle" sites on the yahoo groups area-- sometimes, if you put a request for things like the old socks and baby food jars, you will get lots of them for free!

--Iris

[pinkbubelz]

LOL-- I'm not really a shy person in general, but I guess when I compare myself to other artists around me, I'm not as confident about my own works.... I feel like there are others far more mature in their works and who have defined their own niche.... It took me 14 years of painting before I'd even sign my own paintings!

It's kind of funny--- I usually work big, so the guess at size of paintings isn't that far off-- when it comes to oils, I feel like I'm restricted if working on small canvases--many of my paintings are at least 18 x 24 up to 30 x 40.... The largest painting I ever did was about 56 x 72 or something like that. I made the canvas and it stood blank in my studio for 2 years before I actually painted something. (The final painting was a painting about 9-11 and done in acrylics--I think I'd go crazy waiting for something that size to dry in oils.)

But, like the Mural artist, I like to work for longer period of times on my paintings. Usually a few hours to days to weeks on some of my "finished" works. I am looking forward to trying to do as many quick sketches as possible over the weekend, just to get an idea as to how to lay down the colors and block in the shapes as quickly as possible. (kind of like doing 30 second and 5 minute figure drawing exercises.) I think it will help me not to get so involved in the detail of the scenes and to get the broader feel of the landscapes....

I'm really looking forward to meeting everyone over the weekend-- Might even convince my hubby to try his hand at drawing. He's more of a scientist, but he also has a musical background--so maybe I can convince him to bring an acoustic guitar--if anyone else is a singer/musician as well, please bring your instruments too! ;) )

If we end up staying at a cabin, it might be fun to build a fire and just relax (maybe cook a little something over the campfire.) after a long day's work in painting? :)

[Asterea]

OH OH OH I just discovered this thread. Can hubby and I come too??
This sounds like so much fun!

I havent done a lot of Plien Air painting . Oddly enough considering our lifestyle:) But that is probably because I do have a slight problem with walking great distances now. ?

Larry, If there is even space in the group for us, could you tell me if there are more easily accessible where the group is going to paint? If it involves a lot of hiking then I doubt that I can do it :(

We would be camping so no need for a hotel.

[irish artist]

LOL-- I'm not really a shy person in general, but I guess when I compare myself to other artists around me, I'm not as confident about my own works.... I feel like there are others far more mature in their works and who have defined their own niche.... It took me 14 years of painting before I'd even sign my own paintings!

It's kind of funny--- I usually work big, so the guess at size of paintings isn't that far off-- when it comes to oils, I feel like I'm restricted if working on small canvases--many of my paintings are at least 18 x 24 up to 30 x 40.... The largest painting I ever did was about 56 x 72 or something like that. I made the canvas and it stood blank in my studio for 2 years before I actually painted something. (The final painting was a painting about 9-11 and done in acrylics--I think I'd go crazy waiting for something that size to dry in oils.)

But, like the Mural artist, I like to work for longer period of times on my paintings. Usually a few hours to days to weeks on some of my "finished" works. I am looking forward to trying to do as many quick sketches as possible over the weekend, just to get an idea as to how to lay down the colors and block in the shapes as quickly as possible. (kind of like doing 30 second and 5 minute figure drawing exercises.) I think it will help me not to get so involved in the detail of the scenes and to get the broader feel of the landscapes....

:)

Now, that's what I thought. Here's an excerpt from a mag. I was reading this afternoon: Watercolor Magic, August, 2004: page 67 (written by Cathy Johnson) title of article: "Shapes made simple............Work Large. You won't be as likely to tighten up or overwork the painting if you have a large surface to cover. Use your whole arm, not just your wrist and hand, to paint. If you like you may choose to develope details more in one area than others to lead the viewer's eye to the center of interest. Use the largest brush you have--at least a 1-inch flat or a No. 12 round--for as long as you can. Don't niggle;save the No. 3 brush for final details, if at all."

I believe in K.I.S.S.--Keep it simple, stupid. But that's just me. I tend to focus on details and leave the bigger picture for others. My practice has been to sign up for sassybird's Spring Sketchbook Project and samples of my work can be viewed there, on the thread in WC!. But that's just how I work, I don't expect others to like to focus on details and this is what WC! is all about-encouraging others to do their thing. So thus, do I encourage you, Iris, to do your thing. If your thing is variety, large works, fast and loose brush work, then I say "Go For It" :clap:

[pinkbubelz]

OH OH OH I just discovered this thread. Can hubby and I come too??
This sounds like so much fun!

I havent done a lot of Plien Air painting . Oddly enough considering our lifestyle:) But that is probably because I do have a slight problem with walking great distances now. ?

Larry, If there is even space in the group for us, could you tell me if there are more easily accessible where the group is going to paint? If it involves a lot of hiking then I doubt that I can do it :(

We would be camping so no need for a hotel.

Asterea, where are you from? My hubby and I are considering camping, too. :-) Maybe we can camp in the same area! :-) I'm not sure if you do rustic or more modern camping. We prefer modern ourselves, we were also looking into some nearby small cabins...

Larry will have to answer the question about where exactly we are painting.

--Iris

[leverettfinn]

OH OH OH I just discovered this thread. Can hubby and I come too??
This sounds like so much fun!


The more the merrier!!! :D

Lauren

[Asterea]

Hi Pinkbubelz
OH modern definately. I will be bringing my own house with me :) We did some checking and there is only one campground within 20 miles of Marquette that shows up on Microsoft streets and trips at least. Except the one in Marquette itself. The city park right in town.

The campground is called Horseshoe Lake Campground and it is 18 miles from the center of Marquette. Luckily it is one I get half off the price on too. Whooooo Hooooo !!

I will have to call and make a reservation to be sure there is space in the park I think. We rarely do that for camping, but this time I think I will check. It is about 8 hours from Standish to Marquette.Thats a hike to get there and find no place to park this rig.

The phone number from off the web is 906-346-9937

We would love to have company camping!

Where are these cabins that you are looking at?

[Asterea]

Leverettefinn , thank you !:)

[Shelley Grund]

Hi Pinkbubelz
OH modern definately. I will be bringing my own house with me :) We did some checking and there is only one campground within 20 miles of Marquette that shows up on Microsoft streets and trips at least. Except the one in Marquette itself. The city park right in town.

The campground is called Horseshoe Lake Campground and it is 18 miles from the center of Marquette. Luckily it is one I get half off the price on too. Whooooo Hooooo !!

I will have to call and make a reservation to be sure there is space in the park I think. We rarely do that for camping, but this time I think I will check. It is about 8 hours from Standish to Marquette.Thats a hike to get there and find no place to park this rig.

The phone number from off the web is 906-346-9937

We would love to have company camping!

Where are these cabins that you are looking at?

Hey - WELCOME! I've added you to the list (and I put the list alphabetically):
Current numbers UPDATE:
June 25, 26, 27, 2004

Asterea & husband (Camping)
Cindy - Saturday only
Iris & Hubby (Guitar & Camping)
Irish Artist & Husband (Day's Inn)
Larry & wife (private cabin)
Lauren (alone?)(EconoLodge)
Shelley (mural-artist)(EconoLodge)
Susan & husband

[Asterea]

Thanks Shelly!!! OH this is gonna be fun;) Oh my gosh, I just found out that my internet wont work in the UP!! Hmmm no phone, no email, mabey thats not so bad afterall :D

[pinkbubelz]

Thanks Shelly!!! OH this is gonna be fun;) Oh my gosh, I just found out that my internet wont work in the UP!! Hmmm no phone, no email, mabey thats not so bad afterall :D

More time to paint, less time to surf the net! Sounds like a good combo to me!

BTW-- where are you from?

I'm down in the Detroit Area.

--Iris

[Asterea]

I am from the thumb, about 30 minutes from port huron. Right now I am in Standish. Did you decide where you are camping yet? I wish there were something closer to Marquette, but with bike week I really am not sure about camping in the city park in town.

[pinkbubelz]

I am from the thumb, about 30 minutes from port huron. Right now I am in Standish. Did you decide where you are camping yet? I wish there were something closer to Marquette, but with bike week I really am not sure about camping in the city park in town.

At the moment, I only know where we'll be on Thursday night--we are camping at the KOA Kampground in Gaylord, we'll drive the rest of the way the next morning... :D

If you want to give me a call, PM me and I'll give you my phone number.

Tomorrow I'm going to call around and see if we can get anything near Marquette. If not, we'll probably end up at the local hotel with everyone else.

--Iris

[pinkbubelz]

Asterea,

Here's the scoop on camping.

Tourist Park in Marquette (Modern facilities.)
For a RV site-- it's $20/night (plus a $4 reservation fee.)
I understand that they have a lot of site still available.

I've reserved the last tent site available at that park. (It's $12/night plus $4)

I think it will be fun if you're able to camp there so that we can all gather in one place! (We can have guests, but only 2 cars per site--others have to park at the centralized parking area.)

--Iris

[Shelley Grund]

Asterea,

Here's the scoop on camping.

Tourist Park in Marquette (Modern facilities.)
For a RV site-- it's $20/night (plus a $4 reservation fee.)
I understand that they have a lot of site still available.

I've reserved the last tent site available at that park. (It's $12/night plus $4)

I think it will be fun if you're able to camp there so that we can all gather in one place! (We can have guests, but only 2 cars per site--others have to park at the centralized parking area.)

--Iris

Iris, is there more info on the park? Maybe something on-line?

[Shelley Grund]

Never mind... I found it...
http://www.mqtcty.org/departments/parksrec/touristparkcampground.htm
I'm workin' on getting a trailer for the weekend... Not sure yet. I may still end up at the Econolodge, but camping sure sounds fun! My husband and I went tent camping quite often while our two boys were growing and I really enjoyed it... but I think a trailer would be a nice luxury! Back in the early 60's when I was really young, I traveled with my parents and 3 sisters across the U.S. from California to Maryland in a station wagon and a trailer that barely slept the 6 of us. The trailer I'm planning on bringing is old, but not quite as old as the one I traveled in in the '60's and it has a full bathroom, unlike the one my family had.
So, I'll keep you posted... hopefully I'll get this all worked out in time to get one of those RV spots at the Tourist Park.

[LarrySeiler]

Remember those postcards I sent out....to galleries and such in Marquette?

Just received an email from an artist in Marquette that is interested in joining up with us. The postcard was passed on to her from the Studio Gallery, her name is Diana.

She has invited us to her home on the evening of the 25th...having a house not far from Presque Isle...

I will let her know of our plans to eat at the Northwoods and invite her...but I'm thinkin' it might be very pleasant having a local artist join us...with ammenities of a friendly home location. Ideas????

I'll also ask her about ideas for a place during inclement weather to perhaps paint a floral stilllife set up...

This is turning out to be pretty cool...and I anticipate good things to come of it on into future years. Perhaps an eventual paint out and show in the area. They have this wonderful annual show called ARt in the Park last weekend of July...and I've been thinking as each year goes by how it might be beneficial to take part. Perhaps...in time they would be interested in a plein air segment feature to add aesthetic spice to the festive atmosphere....

My wife and I are going to a retirement party for three teachers in just a few moments...so, I'll check back here of course before sending her a response to her email. In case you have ideas....
Larry

[Shelley Grund]

Just received an email from an artist in Marquette that is interested in joining up with us. The postcard was passed on to her from the Studio Gallery, her name is Diana.

She has invited us to her home on the evening of the 25th...having a house not far from Presque Isle...

I will let her know of our plans to eat at the Northwoods and invite her...but I'm thinkin' it might be very pleasant having a local artist join us...with ammenities of a friendly home location. Ideas????

I'll also ask her about ideas for a place during inclement weather to perhaps paint a floral stilllife set up...Larry

I was wondering if anything had come from your super post cards... I'd enjoy meeting a local artist. We can't invite ourselves for dinner so I'd assume the Northwoods restaurant is still on. Definitely invite her to join us. We can remain flexible - after she meets us all she may not want us in her house :evil: Seriously, this will give her a chance to spend time with us in a neutral location. Whether we move on to her house afterwards or not totally depends upon how things go at the restaurant.

[Asterea]

I am definately camping :) I will call the campground in Marquette tomarrow. Thanks for the link murel artist:)

OH boy looking at the work you people do makes me feel totally inadequate.

I had given up painting some 20 yrs ago and only got back to it in the last year. I have forgotten soooo much technique that I used to do effortlessly.

Now I just sit beating my head on the canvas and saying "I cant remember ! blast it ! my filing system is broken"

Todays delimma was trying to remember how to paint a screen in a door in water colors. It finally came to me , but by then I had just about pulled my hair out! LOL

The good news for me is, by the time I wade my way thought all the information on this web site I think I might have most of my memory back:)

[LarrySeiler]

I agree Shelley...

It will be more professional for Diana at this point to hear concrete plans are in order and that she is welcome to join us. The option of course to visit even the next night is open...who knows? I will have my guitar along and my blues harps just in case...for fun. I'm a go with the flow kinda guy...just lookin' forward to meetin' everyone.

I'll give her the official invite...
also, I'll call the northwoods with as big a group as is growing here and see if they can set some tables up for us...or what they might have in mind, and reserve our dinner time at 7pm...

Diana is quite a professional illustrator, having illustrated about 70 children's books. Here's her website so you can get a chance to know her-
http://www.dianamagnuson.com

With that said...I just want to invite people to celebrate what we are doing here. I've seen a few now express doubts and fears of personal talents and what not. We have some very fine artists among us..and some might be newer to plein air..but we are all artists, and we all know what it means to work in isolation. Come expecting to learn, to celebrate, to enjoy company of others.


Larry

[Emilia]

I have beed quietly following this thread.
You Guys are going to have such a great time!!! While you are enjoying meeting each other. Please take a lot of pictures and post them here as well as your paintings.

Please include me in spirit. Have a drink on me as I will be thinking of you.

Have a great, great time. In a mean time I am having a booth here in town Visual Art Celebration next week. Artists are from NJ. Con. NY. and Pen.

[Shelley Grund]

I agree Shelley...

It will be more professional for Diana at this point to hear concrete plans are in order and that she is welcome to join us. The option of course to visit even the next night is open...who knows? I will have my guitar along and my blues harps just in case...for fun. I'm a go with the flow kinda guy...just lookin' forward to meetin' everyone.

I'll give her the official invite...
also, I'll call the northwoods with as big a group as is growing here and see if they can set some tables up for us...or what they might have in mind, and reserve our dinner time at 7pm...

Diana is quite a professional illustrator, having illustrated about 70 children's books. Here's her website so you can get a chance to know her-
http://www.dianamagnuson.com

With that said...I just want to invite people to celebrate what we are doing here. I've seen a few now express doubts and fears of personal talents and what not. We have some very fine artists among us..and some might be newer to plein air..but we are all artists, and we all know what it means to work in isolation. Come expecting to learn, to celebrate, to enjoy company of others.
[QUOTE=LarrySeiler]
I will have my guitar along and my blues harps just in case...for fun. I'm a go with the flow kinda guy...just lookin' forward to meetin' everyone.
Larry
Sounds super!


I'll call the northwoods with as big a group as is growing here and see if they can set some tables up for us...or what they might have in mind, and reserve our dinner time at 7pm...
Larry
Good idea!


Diana is quite a professional illustrator, having illustrated about 70 children's books. Here's her website so you can get a chance to know her-
http://www.dianamagnuson.com
Larry
Wow - some wonderful work. I'd really enjoy visiting her studio if it works out!

I've seen a few now express doubts and fears of personal talents and what not. We have some very fine artists among us..and some might be newer to plein air..but we are all artists, and we all know what it means to work in isolation. Come expecting to learn, to celebrate, to enjoy company of others.
Larry
I agree... I've heard that little voice in my mind telling me I must be crazy thinking I could paint with the likes of you and others.... Will take me a lot of courage to follow through - have already had a few internal arguements to shut that voice up. Have almost cancelled a couple of times. I'm basically pretty shy so this is quite a growth period for me! I just keep telling myself "THIS WILL BE FUN!" Too much of my art is done in solitude - The weekend is just what I need!

Please include me in spirit. Have a drink on me as I will be thinking of you.
Emilia - Wish you could join us - will lift a glass/bottle in your honor!

Asterea - I know exactly what you mean - time does have a tendancy to make our skills rusty! WC is a wonderful place to wander to remind us of why we do our art and how to do it - the people here just make it happen!

MARQUETTE - here we come!

[LarrySeiler]

If anyone is planning on bringing watercolors to work with...I found a thread of mine started last year January. It was sitting at a computer instudio as a response to being asked to demo...not plein air...but I did use a photo from some places I've painted along the Picture Rocks shore east of Munising.

Shows my simple Cotman Field Kit setup, my use of mask to suggest and paint trees, clouds and so forth...some trying to get a sense of going about doing this and not having done it before might benefit...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=83973

also...in my own WC forum, I have listed many many past threads with WIPs, demos, articles of demos and so forth for convenience in assisting artists here.

A pastel demo....acrylic, many oils...some watercolors. There are discussions on what to think while painting, to look for...you name it. Please take advantage of what is there to be gleaned.

Also...I was out a couple days ago when we had our hottest day yet this year, sun shining. Forgot my sunscreen!!! I posted my simple set up for watercolor as well as the work, the scene...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=194290

I paint mostly oils these days...did acrylics for near 20 years...but should do some more watercolors as well. Variety is nice for gallery space.

take care

Larry

[Asterea]

Hi everyone:)
Iris and Shelly I booked our campsite today in Marquette tourist campground.

And I decided well may as well give this a shot(famouse last words but I dont know who said them LOL) sooo I took myself and just my watercolors down to the lake here.

Did I mention it turned hot today??

Well after having eveything blow away a few times, and the sun bake me ,

(did I mention it is hot here today?? 90+ degrees in the shade)

and I had forgotton a bucket for water

(did I mention how hot it was today? I finally got a sketch done and gave up before I fried myself too bad,

did I mention no sunscreen ? LOL.

Oh yes did I mention that my paper almost blew into the lake even though I had it weighed down?>

Did I mention that I had a fun day ?? Well I did :) Hope you did too!

[leverettfinn]

ohhhh! I can tell we're gonna have the best time :D !

glad you got your site booked Asterea.....

My friend did indeed decide to come along...her name is Heather and she is a doll! We each have a room at the Econo Lodge...have no idea how far that is from your campsite....

I am also going to remind my friend Sue Schultz (painter) about the trip...she expressed some interest...and if she is available...maybe i can nudge her....

Lauren

[irish artist]

With that said...I just want to invite people to celebrate what we are doing here. I've seen a few now express doubts and fears of personal talents and what not. We have some very fine artists among us..and some might be newer to plein air..but we are all artists, and we all know what it means to work in isolation. Come expecting to learn, to celebrate, to enjoy company of others.


Larry

I agree with Larry, this should be done in the spirit of fun and companionship. I'm willing to laugh at the goof-ups, praise good work, and learn from what the others are doing, that's why I like the idea of a show and tell after we finish painting. After all we may split up and go to different locations. It doesn't matter what size you want to paint or even what medium you want to use. Larry is offering tips about all of it to whoever wants to read it.

Note of Interest: Kalamazoo is sponsoring a special event to honor the exhibition of "Millet to Matisse" at the Kalamazoo Institute of Art where I go to school. It's called "Bastille Day Plien Air Event" There will be prizes, food, and judging with the idea that you can sell the art afterwards. I will PM infro to any wanting to go. Its free to accepted artists, they are trying to recreate the French custom long ago of artists getting together to paint and enjoy the company of other artists. Its dated for July 14 and you must sent the application by June 25th. If you don't sign up why not join us and view the art? You can to go the exhibit also (there's a small fee) and its a good chance to see up-close work of famous artists. This exhibition is traveling from Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow.

About doubts about talent, I really don't think anyone cares whether the resulting art is top-of-the-line, so to those who have doubts : RELAX :)

[Asterea]

From what I gather , the campground is a city park.Therefore I assume it is right in the city of Marquette. It should be close enough to be convienant and Iris is camping there too.

Yesss this is gonna be fun!

Referring to my last post there iis something that I forgot to mention, do you know when you paint outdoors, that the coners of the picture you are working from are missing??? NO boundrys!! HMMMM That makes things interesting.

I had to crop the heck out of the sketch when I got back to get rid of the extraneouse stuff that I saw and didnt want in my painting.

Ok so I cheated ;) Did I mention that It was really really hot today?? I did finish up some of it back in the air conditioning:)

[pinkbubelz]

Very Cool!
If you're in a RV, I guess you won't be close by to me, but at least we'll be in the same park! :-) Maybe we can exchange names and ask for each other when we check in! :-)

Depending on how hot or cold it is, I volunteer to do a campfire one night! :- ) I can accommodate another tent on my site if anyone else is interested in tent camping (we can split the cost of the site--each site can have up to 2 tents and 2 cars.) If anyone's up to it, we could even do a night of "camp cooking", too: (roasted ears of corn, maybe some hot dogs, chicken or sausages or something like that--we could even "potluck" it... :) ) Nothing better than a hotdog or sausage roasted over an open fire with a fresh ear of roasted corn or a baked potato or roasted veggies... :) )

I think that would be kind of fun for 1 evening, don't you?

BTW-- today was hotter than hot!!! My "baby" brother graduated from Med School today-- the graduates had to wear those heavy graduation robes! I practically sweated through my outfit... (and I really don't like the heat & humidity!) on top of that, my car was overheating, so I had to keep turning up the heater... (in 90 degree weather - 95 degree heat index). I can't imagine how hot it would be in the sun with no hat or sunscreen!

:D

--Iris





From what I gather , the campground is a city park.Therefore I assume it is right in the city of Marquette. It should be close enough to be convienant and Iris is camping there too.

Yesss this is gonna be fun!

Referring to my last post there iis something that I forgot to mention, do you know when you paint outdoors, that the coners of the picture you are working from are missing??? NO boundrys!! HMMMM That makes things interesting.

I had to crop the heck out of the sketch when I got back to get rid of the extraneouse stuff that I saw and didnt want in my painting.

Ok so I cheated ;) Did I mention that It was really really hot today?? I did finish up some of it back in the air conditioning:)

[LarrySeiler]

goodness Iris...a graduation horror story!

We have reprieve today with cooler weather...but, no sun.

So, I'll finish cleaning my art room today at school...get other work done.

Hope you get your thermostat fixed. Sounds like its sticking on you, and not wanting to open up.

Larry

[pinkbubelz]

goodness Iris...a graduation horror story!

We have reprieve today with cooler weather...but, no sun.

So, I'll finish cleaning my art room today at school...get other work done.

Hope you get your thermostat fixed. Sounds like its sticking on you, and not wanting to open up.

Larry

Actually, it's worse than that-- the car also has rod knock. Been told by the dealer we need a new engine. We'll drive the other car up north. Of course the cars are only JUST paid off...Murphy's law... LOL

--Iris

[Shelley Grund]

Ok - I've made arrangements to join the camping group with an ol' 20 foot travel trailer I'm borrowing! I've arranged for a site next to you, Asterea - hope that's ok.... Iris - we are allowed one RV and one tent (and two vehicles) on each site ... maybe you'd like to cancel your reservation and join us - then all three of us will be together - and the bathhouse looks to be pretty close (although your site is close to the river and ours are on the totally opposite side of the park). I'll PM you the site numbers... I plan on arriving Thursday evening - I've begged my husband, Scott, to come and help me get it set up. We plan to bring our two German Shephards - but only for Thurs night. Scott will take them both back home with him Friday morning. Then, Scott will return Sunday (by himself) to help get me out of there (I just don't know how to tow trailers - no experience in hooking them up or any of that stuff).

YES - It was terribly HOT & HUMID the previous 2 days and the mosquitoes were fierce! UGH - YUCKY! But, last night big storms came through and this morning ii's a lot cooler and less humid! Saw more storms this a.m and understand more are coming. I don't mind the rain - hate that heat & humidity!

Asterea - I enjoyed reading your woeful plein air painting experience! Have you posted a picture of the painting??? I want to see P-L-E-A-S-E!

Lauren - glad to hear your friend Heather is coming - I've added her to the list.

Current numbers UPDATE:
June 25, 26, 27, 2004
Asterea & husband (RV-Camping)
Cindy - Saturday only
Iris & Hubby (Guitar & Tent-Camping)
Irish Artist & Husband (Day's Inn)
Larry & wife (private cabin)
Lauren & Heather (EconoLodge)
Shelley (RV-Camping)
Susan & husband

My home away from home....

:clap:

[LarrySeiler]

You know...

I haven't spent much time reading the threads of other get togethers throughout other parts of the states organized here in the event forum, but I wouldn't be surprised if this thread doesn't become a model for how it can all come together.

So, my appreciations go out to Shelley for continually updating our list, keeping us on track...to every one really that has had a part in this.

Sure, maybe too soon to hand out congratulations for we don't know yet how this will ultimately turn out, but I know that behind every successful event that does happen is this orchestration and foundation.

:clap: :clap: :clap: Cheers one and all...


Larry

[Shelley Grund]

Larry and all - it's my pleasure to participate in this whole thing. For me it's easy to sit here at my computer and keep it focused... if you asked me to do it in front of a bunch of people... well... that would be a totally different matter :o

I simply can't wait to meet you all and start throwing paint around :D I'm really hoping this works out!

[pinkbubelz]

Mural--
I'm terrified of big dogs... :( I asked my hubby, and he prefers to be on a tent site-- usually they are a bit more wooded than the RV sites... It was the last tent site available, so who knows where they are putting us! I'll ask him again if he doesn't mind an RV site-- it will be up to him because he's coming more as a favor to me... ;-) (We have to leave from his class in Detroit on Thursday night, so we won't get to Gaylord KOA until about 11 pm at the earliest. We will drive the rest of the way on Friday morning.

We can definitely hang out around the campfire! :-) I'm already getting out my favorite "camping shirt" (a fuschia & black checked Flannel that I've had for years... :-) and ready for the trip to the UP... Been up to Marquette about 4 yrs ago-- his grandpa is from Houghton so we drove to Copper Harbor and also for a couple of hours to the Porcupine Mtns. (that will have to be a much longer trip in the future.)

I LOVED presque Isle and have great pix of the area in B/W... Now that I have an awesome digicam, I can take a zillion pix for my own reference!

Cannot wait to actually meet everyone--it is always exciting to meet other artists in whatever stage of their development!!!

I also want to "pick your brain" about painting murals-- might have a commission for the summer... :-)

--Iris

Ok - I've made arrangements to join the camping group with an ol' 20 foot travel trailer I'm borrowing! I've arranged for a site next to you, Asterea - hope that's ok.... Iris - we are allowed one RV and one tent (and two vehicles) on each site ... maybe you'd like to cancel your reservation and join us - then all three of us will be together - and the bathhouse looks to be pretty close (although your site is close to the river and ours are on the totally opposite side of the park). I'll PM you the site numbers... I plan on arriving Thursday evening - I've begged my husband, Scott, to come and help me get it set up. We plan to bring our two German Shephards - but only for Thurs night. Scott will take them both back home with him Friday morning. Then, Scott will return Sunday (by himself) to help get me out of there (I just don't know how to tow trailers - no experience in hooking them up or any of that stuff).

YES - It was terribly HOT & HUMID the previous 2 days and the mosquitoes were fierce! UGH - YUCKY! But, last night big storms came through and this morning ii's a lot cooler and less humid! Saw more storms this a.m and understand more are coming. I don't mind the rain - hate that heat & humidity!

Asterea - I enjoyed reading your woeful plein air painting experience! Have you posted a picture of the painting??? I want to see P-L-E-A-S-E!

Lauren - glad to hear your friend Heather is coming - I've added her to the list.

Current numbers UPDATE:
June 25, 26, 27, 2004
Asterea & husband (RV-Camping)
Cindy - Saturday only
Iris & Hubby (Guitar & Tent-Camping)
Irish Artist & Husband (Day's Inn)
Larry & wife (private cabin)
Lauren & Heather (EconoLodge)
Shelley (RV-Camping)
Susan & husband

My home away from home....

:clap: