Not a Goddess

I have been studying the history of some of my favorite artists--first saw Manet's work years ago at an amazing exhibit at The Art Institute of Chicago. My goal is to go back and study many of these artists who were so strongly influenced by each other. It has been a lot of fun so far and extremely motivating!

This painting was inspired by Edouard Manet's painting "The Luncheon on the Grass" (without the foreground). Manet was not dependent on the sales of his paintings, so was able to really push the boundaries of the time. Initially, I just thought she was really beautiful, but learning the stories behind paintings makes them so much better!

The process I used to paint this was different. Normally I sketch in my painting with light transparent paint, but this time I did a dark wash and wiped out the woman's form. It was interesting and felt strange, forcing an uncomfortable looseness.

12x12 on 1/8" museum quality panel
www.halliekohnart.com

Degas Inspired Dancers

The fourth in my series of master's studies. This one was inspired by Edgar Degas and his many, many dancers paintings. Love his looseness and use of color, so considered to be one of my very favorite artists.

12x12 on 1/8" museum quality panel
www.halliekohnart.com

Van Gogh's Bedrooms

Went to the amazing Van Gogh "Bedrooms" exhibit at the Chicago Art Institute. It was so well done and so interesting! I was inspired to attempt my first master's study, which I have never done before. Didn't focus on perfection of duplication, but tried to paint in my own style. Went for the colors as best I could, and really just enjoyed it so much. 

After viewing the exhibit, we purchased a book giving even more information. I started reading it after I finished my painting. I think it would be cool for ME to paint a second (third??) of this painting, as Van Gogh did, especially after reading the history and all of the details about his color and other choices in each painting. If you have the opportunity to see this exhibit, or even purchase the book, I highly recommend it.

11x14 on 1/8" museum quality panel
www.halliekohnart.com

This photo shows the three bedroom paintings side by side.

Here the museum has set up a replica of Van Gogh's bedroom.

The book "Bedrooms" goes into further detail.