studiowasteland

Laura

2012-01-31T16:42:00.000-08:00

Beautiful ballet form and great poses made for a good night of drawing Monday. Laura H was our model and did a super job on her first go at it. This was a 10 minute sketch that I liked even though it's not really a great likeness. Conte and pastel.

Final

2012-01-22T11:33:00.000-08:00

Still working on a title but I've finished the painting of Robin V in red. 20x30. Still needs to be stretched and a better photo taken of it.

Progress

2012-01-20T18:39:00.000-08:00

Untitled painting nearing completion. A lot accomplished today and this evening. Still need to work on the hands and dress and some other minor details...and oh yea, need to come up with a title. Check back in a couple of days or three for a final.
20x30. Model, Robin V.

Study

2012-01-17T11:47:00.000-08:00

I don't do a lot of studies for gallery paintings. I prefer to jump right in while the idea is fresh and have at it. From time to time, however, I'll do a quick sketch or color study. This is a conte and pastel study for a painting I'm planning. Dramatic pose with bold red outfit should look nice against a dark background...maybe even in the woods? Not sure of the background at this point. Model-Robin V.

Christina

2012-01-17T11:44:00.000-08:00

Quick sketch of Christina K from last nights class. 15 minute, conte and pastel.

Erin

2012-01-07T13:31:00.000-08:00

Just finished up this dancer painting...Erin H, model. I'm going to work on getting a better photo of the art. The dark backgrounds are difficult to shoot. Erin posed as the black swan for the drawing class recently and this painting was done from that series of photos and sketches. I like the warmth of the colors and the light.
24x30.

"Road to Pokey's" Final

2012-01-07T13:26:00.000-08:00

Finished up this landscape.

Progression

2012-01-03T14:29:00.001-08:00

Unfinished but moving along. Abandoned house along a dirt road near Hartsville, SC....at least I thought it was abandoned. A gentleman met me and my wife as we neared the house and asked if he could help us.(He lived in a trailer behind the house) I explained that I was interested in painting the house and fields...he was kind enough not to shoot me. His name was Pokey. Come to find out, he knew my wife and her family from many years ago...his house is just across a field from where she grew up.
14x30 oil.

2012

2012-01-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

Kicking off the new year by starting a landscape. The underpainting is shown here. This is a revisit to an earlier painting of a scene near Hartsville, SC. My vantage point is a little closer in and there is a slightly different look to the landscape. Both are from December shoots but this one has a little more green in the fields and not as much of the fall color. Would love to see this scene under a cover of snow. I'll post a final later on. Happy New Year to all!!
14"x30".

Hurry Down the Chimney...Tonight

2011-12-19T20:20:00.000-08:00

Christmas party at the drawing class. A good group gathered for coffee, good treats and Erin H as the model. Beautiful black and silver dress and red heels...really nice outfit...a 15 minute sketch does not do it justice. I liked this one with her holding Santa's hat. Conte and pastel. $185.

Emily at the Barre

2011-12-05T20:17:00.000-08:00

Loved this pose tonight at the drawing class...great lines and expression. 15 minute drawing in conte and pastel. Model, Emily T, stretching at the barre. $225. 18x24 paper.

8 X 8's

2011-11-29T12:00:00.000-08:00

Small studies for sale...original art at a great price. These 8"x8" oil on panel studies are $165 each. Shown above: "Minnehaha Falls", "North Georgia Falls", and "Apple Tree". Unframed panels look great in a small shelf easel or hanging on your wall.

Tiffany in Black and White

2011-11-14T19:26:00.000-08:00

Well, she was dressed in a bold black and white striped sweater. Model Tiffany M is back in Newnan after having been away. Great to have her pose for the drawing class again. This 15 minute conte and pastel was my favorite.

Fashion Studies

2011-11-13T12:54:00.001-08:00

Some mixed media fashion drawing studies from older photo reference. Model, Erin H.
One of these is like an earlier life drawing. These done later in the studio with pencil, colored chalk and pastel.
Pair- $325.

The Cheerleader was Here but She had to Split

2011-10-27T16:34:00.001-07:00

Another first for the Monday night drawing class...Cheerleader night. Give me a "C" for conte. I forgot my pastels and only had a small speck of flesh tone to give a little color in the face and hands. This was a 15 minute split...amazing that there are people that can do that..and still walk. Model, Caroline W.

Ballerinas Gone Bad

2011-10-17T19:41:00.000-07:00

Not really, but sort of. Erin H as the "Black Swan" tonight at drawing class....lots of fun. Erin and I came up with different pieces of the outfit and it turned out great. Something old, something new, something borrowed and something black. Erin did her own makeup...super! Great poses sealed the deal. Two 15 minute sketches shown, conte and pastel. Look for a painting soon. Most drawings posted are for sale...that includes these two. $225 each.

Holy Batskirt Batman

2011-10-10T21:35:00.000-07:00

Are you kidding me...Batgirl at the drawing class! That's what I'm talking about. Frank Sinatra on the CD with Batgirl posing...a near zen moment. Her secret identity is Laura B, but you didn't hear that from me...great job posing...lots of fun. 15 minute pastel and a 2 minute gestures shown.

The Witching Hour...and a half

2011-10-04T11:49:00.000-07:00

October is costume month at the drawing class. We're starting with Bracey P as a witch...gotta have at least one witch in Oct. Close up, 15 minute conte and pastel. Also shown is a 3 minute gesture done with fat sharpie on newsprint. Next week, Batgirl!! Same Bat-Blog, Same Bat-Internet.

Katie Fans

2011-09-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

Small crowd at drawing class but we were all "fans" of Katie C. This drawing shows her holding a fan and sitting on an un-drawn stool. The long tutu was bright yellow with black borders but this is as far as the 15 minutes would allow me.

Solitude

2011-09-20T14:31:00.000-07:00

This started as a painting of a bride running through a forest...seemed like a good idea at the time but it never panned out. I made some changes in the trees and added the female figure in red, sat on it for a while and here it is. Being alone in the middle of a large forest is an amazing experience...a little scary but a bit euphoric as well. 24x30.

Goin' Home

2011-09-13T18:36:00.001-07:00

Final art for an earlier post. This painting is currently hanging in my Civil War show at Newnan's Centre for Performing and Visual Arts. A lone confederate soldier is wounded and cut off from his army. One way or the other he is going home, possibly very shortly. He's prepared to take someone with him with his Colt army revolver and his Bowie knife. Perhaps a last minute appearance by the cavalry will save him from certain death.
Oil on canvas...30x48.

Christina's World

2011-09-10T19:05:00.000-07:00

Nearly finished painting from a previous life drawing(New Kid in Town). Model, Christina, posed for the class in a black tutu and took some really nice reclining poses, including this beauty. 20x30.

Aftermath

2011-08-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

The painting, "Aftermath" was unveiled last night to a good crowd here in Newnan. The painting shows Civil War nurse, Fannie Beers(model-Laura Bradley) at Brown's Mill battlefield the afternoon of the battle. The scene is described in her journal, "Memories". It will also be the centerpiece of an upcoming one-man show of Civil War paintings and drawings that I will be having at the Centre for Performing and Visual Arts. The painting is 4'x6'.

There's a New Kid in Town

2011-08-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

New model, Christina K and The Eagles...great combo. Christina was super and took some really nice poses. Several may become paintings or involved studies later. Two drawings are shown here. The second one was a 5 minute sketch. I started from the front side of this pose and after 10 minutes I realized it was going nowhere. I moved to the back side and quickly tried to get the main gist of it all. I guess it's really a gesture drawing. The first drawing shown is 15 minutes.
Conte and pastel.

Sounds of Silence

2011-08-15T18:55:00.000-07:00

We were forced to draw in another room tonight at drawing class. We were without our model stand and without our CD player. I "almost" sang for the group there but thought better of it. We drew in silence for the most part...pretty strange actually. Model, Katie T, had to sit on the floor for this pose. The keen observer will notice that the angle is a bit different than past drawings. Good class though, Katie came in a fun outfit complete with cool hat, cool sandals and wouldn't you know it, a cool vest.
15 minute conte and pastel.

Progress

2011-08-03T19:55:00.000-07:00

New progress on this 30x40 of Mary N and a globe. I'm liking the colors and feeling of this. Working currently on feet, hands and the soft fleece blanket she's sitting on. Still a way to go on this. I'll post a final later.

OPA Regional Bound

2011-07-26T20:17:00.000-07:00

I posted this work earlier just before a show in the town of Hartsville, SC, where I went to Jr. Hi and Hi School. Just found out that it was accepted into the 2011 Oil Painters of America Regional show in Orleans, Mass. A landscape in a show is unusual for me but I entered it because I thought it was strong. The scene is one I used to drive by on my way to pick up my best girl(now my wife). This field and house were just behind her house. I liked how the winding road led the way to the house, barely visible in the dense tree group. I also really liked the subdued colors of a December day. The show opens September 17 and runs about a month. More info below.
Addison Art Gallery
43 Massachusetts 28
Orleans, MA 02653
September 17 - October 15, 2011
"Hidden House"
12x36

Dancer Study

2011-07-22T16:13:00.000-07:00

I shoot photos at my life drawing class to do this...a study beyond the 15 minute sketches we do from life. This study may lead to a more involved painting but I really like the feel this has. 20x24, though smaller than most of my figurative paintings, ended up being a great size. I also experimented with a different canvas, it's a smoother surface and worked really well for this. Robin V was the model.

Fashion 2

2011-07-16T20:00:00.000-07:00

Another conte and pastel fashion sample. These are on 18x24 drawing paper and take up most of the page. Colors are blended with a stump or with my fingers. $250.

Fashion Roots

2011-07-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

One of my first job offers after Ringling was as a fashion illustrator in Atlanta. I would have taken it but for an offer from Brown Dog Studios to do more of the type of illustration that I wanted to do. This is a recent sample piece for a company looking for some original paintings and drawings for a new space they're designing. They want a bit of a contemporary edge to the works. I'm trying to introduce the contemporary edge in the actual clothing since my work is fairly traditional. The drawing is influenced by a dress by a designer, Yohji Yamamoto. Very cool, simple, bold.

Small Crowd, Big Poses

2011-07-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

Dancer Emily T is a terrific model. She takes nice poses that aren't always "safe"...even when they're 15 minutes. This is a pretty good example. Arms out from the body, leaning off balance, most of her weight on a small area, in this case, her knee. It usually makes for a fun, lively drawing. $185

Goin' Hollywood, Again...Maybe?

2011-07-08T20:47:00.000-07:00

Recently sold this drawing to a set designer for the TV show "Parenthood". I signed a release so it could be shown on the set. We'll have to see if it makes the cut! Watch the new season and keep an eye out for it. Tuesday, Sept 13, NBC, 10pm, the new season of Parenthood is scheduled to start.
The drawing sold through my Etsy site where I have other original drawings for sale. Check them out at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/martinpate
The drawing was done in Atlanta at a life drawing class I used to go to but have not attended in a couple of years. 15 or 20 minutes, conte and pastel. Reminds me of "The Thinker".

Baby Bump

2011-06-30T17:06:00.000-07:00

A first for the drawing class...the model was "with child", about 6 months or so I believe. Ashleigh V, excellent as always. Shown here in a side view, seated. 15 minutes, conte and pastel.

Location Studies

2011-06-26T19:10:00.001-07:00

Been in the Myrtle Beach area for a couple of weeks...R&R and some plein air painting. We went up to Sunset Beach NC one day and I painted an 11x14 study of the marsh area. It was hot but our location was in the shade and a good breeze kept it comfortable. A fawn ran by at one point and checked my work out...didn't stay long enough for me to get a photo. The dunes were painted down the coast at Huntington Beach State Park. We set up on the beach and I turned around and painted this 11X14 study of the dunes.
$350 each.

Mary's World

2011-06-10T20:02:00.000-07:00

Detail of a 30x40...early stages. Mary N with large globe. A chair and part of a window will be visible. She is looking toward the window. I'll show some progression on this one and a final shot later on.

Dark Side of the Tutu

2011-06-06T20:15:00.001-07:00

New model, dance instructor, Katie M posed for the class tonight. We listened to some Pink Floyd. Excellent poses...nice, black tutu. I really liked my angle on this pose even though I might have liked to have been back a bit and a tad higher. Model was sitting on a stool, leaning against the bar, away from my vantage point. I think it's a winner. 15 minutes, conte and pastel.
Only $225.

Mr. Blue

2011-06-05T10:27:00.000-07:00

New painting of dancer Chelsea S in a sky blue tutu...aka blutu. I also just heard ELO on Pandora, hence the title of this entry. Smaller painting than normal for me...18x24. Similar background to a recent painting..."Hidden". Full art and detail shown.

Etsy Highlight

2011-06-02T20:09:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite life drawings in recent years. This 15 minute conte and pastel of dance model Chelsea S has really nice form and lines. I like pretty much everything about it. Did a painting from this pose but it lost something in the translation. See more original drawings for sale at:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/martinpate

Girl by the Window

2011-05-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

Painting of young model Mary N. This is a situation where I did not know the family very well but felt compelled to paint this child. Many times I've seen someone that I wanted to paint, for various reasons, but did not approach them...always regretful. This is one of several I have planned of this model. The painting ended up being a little more "portrait-like" than I planned but I love the pose, expression and setting. Also love the contrast between the darker, somewhat somber background and her vibrant, colorful dress. 24x30

White on White

2011-05-17T04:43:00.001-07:00

12 minute sketch of dance model Sarah from last nights class. All white tutu and leotard. Might do a longer study of this later...some other nice poses were inspiring as well. Conte and pastel.

Progress Continues

2011-05-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

I'm going to sit on this one for a while and decide what else it needs. I'm mostly happy with it but it will get some more detail work later. Still working on a title..."Charging an Unseen Enemy"..."Into the Unknown"...something will come to me. 30x48 oil. See other interpretive art paintings that I've done at:
www.pateart.com

Civil War Show

2011-05-05T19:23:00.000-07:00

I've been working on pieces for a show of my Civil War work in September. It will be here in Newnan at the Visual and Performing Arts Centre. Most of this type of work is for commission so I don't have much of it on hand at any given time. I'm working on several large new works just for this show, a handful of smaller works and I'll be borrowing two or three commissioned works. This is part of the commemoration of the 150 anniversary of the war. Newnan,like many small towns was directly touched by the conflict with a local cavalry battle and many, many wounded and dead brought into town to the temporary hospitals that were in homes, businesses, churches etc. The image shown is a confederate infantry unit charging into a heavy cloud of smoke. The image is unfinished. When the soldiers are mostly finished, I'll obscure part of them with the smoke. 30x48.

Bridal Portrait

2011-04-26T18:52:00.000-07:00

It's wedding season! I've planned for years to do a sample bridal portrait and just never got around to it. Well, I've done it. I would think there might be a good market for that something extra that some folks might be looking for. What a gift, a painting of the bride on her most beautiful day! Something like this could even be done after the fact, even years later...of course, there'd be nothing like having it displayed at the reception. This painting is a 24x30, 3/4 but a full view would be larger, up to full size.

Crouching Tiger

2011-04-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

Loved this pose...it had a great "shape" to it. Difficult to hold but dance model Emily T stuck with it for close to 15 minutes. I think the actual drawing was around 12 minutes. Conte and pastel.

Tutu Funk

2011-04-18T18:21:00.000-07:00

Ashleigh posing for tonight's drawing class in a tutu inspired outfit. Loved this pose but not sure the left leg reads. What do you think? It's turned out...away from the viewer...a bit hard to pull off without showing the thigh. 15 minute, conte and pastel.

Cloud Shadow

2011-04-16T17:17:00.000-07:00

Another in a series of paintings of scenes in and around Alcott, SC. This one a quick study, 11x14, oil on panel. $425.

Do Zombie Artists Draw Flies?

2011-04-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

It was Zombie Night at the drawing class last night! No model was harmed in the creation of this blog. Akom T was in zombie mode while Ashleigh F was his victim. Make up by artist/filmmaker James Sizemore. James is currently working on an independent film full of demons, monsters and zombies. Last night was a fund raiser to help with his costs. See links below for more info. Drawings shown are conte/pastel...15-30 minutes. Drawing two models is a challenge but it's really good to give it a try once in a while.

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/louprah/the-demons-rook

http://www.plainjames.com/

Etsy Shop

2011-04-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

My daughter has set up an Etsy shop for me to sell drawings. Gonna give it a try! It's called "Life Study". Right now I have three categories...drawings of dancers, drawings of nudes and a $50 bin of mixed life drawings. All are original drawings, all are signed. All are drawn on the better part of 18x24 acid free paper but vary in actual size of the image. Set up for Paypal or checks. Let me thank you all in advance for your many, many purchases.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/martinpate?view_type=list

Everybody Get Together Try to Draw One Another Right Now.

2011-04-04T18:38:00.000-07:00

A couple of drawings from tonights drawing class. Threatening storms and spring break week here in Coweta County took it's toll on the crowd but we had a good time. Dance model Emily M posed...awesome as always. Both drawings 12-15 minutes. Conte and pastel.

Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo and all that jazz

2011-03-28T20:07:00.000-07:00

A special night at the drawing class. Actress Laura B posed in costume as Cinderella. Several poses as "peasant Cinderella" and two in a ball gown and crown. After posing, she sang "In my own little corner" a cappella. That's what I'm talking about!
Shown are two "peasant Cinderella" drawings...approx 15 minutes. My favorites from the night. Now, as if that wasn't enough, get this...Laura was proposed to, as Cinderella, on stage, by Prince Charming...for real, this past Saturday night! She said yes. This is the kind of stuff you miss if you're not coming to the Monday Night Drawing class.
$250 each. $400 pair.

Hidden

2011-03-24T10:52:00.000-07:00

Final on the 30x40 painting of dance model, Robin V. Strong mood in this one when viewed in person. The minimal use of color and background give the figure more impact. Still has a reverence about it but I chose not to call it "Penitence" or anything along those lines...went with "Hidden" instead...referring to the unknown thoughts or emotions of the subject. Click on image to see a larger file.

Return of the Fern

2011-03-22T06:00:00.001-07:00

No, that's not the title of a low budget Sci-fi movie, that refers to the tutu that our model had on last night. New dance model Sarah Ann posed for the drawing class in a borrowed tutu that I had previously called "the fern". She did a great job. I liked this drawing...12 minutes, conte and pastel. I also like the outfit...very nice.

Praying Ballerina

2011-03-17T17:56:00.000-07:00

In progress painting of Robin V. Large, 30x40. Under-painting shown. I've thrown a frame on it just to see how it frames up with something big. Trying to finish it for next week's art walk here in Newnan. Looks sort of "prayerful" but I'm not sure what the title is going to be.

Better Than Da Vinci

2011-03-17T06:52:00.000-07:00

I recently spoke to an exceptional group of kids at Elm St Elementary. I showed art school work, early illustrations, recent illustrations and some fine art pieces. This is always a good time and you never know what you'll be asked or what comments you might get. One observant student declared that I was better than Da Vinci...well, I'm paraphrasing a bit, but I'm going with it.

LaGatta Studies

2011-03-09T18:03:00.000-08:00

John LaGatta, 1894-1977, was a superb draftsman of the figure. I'm not sure if there was ever anyone better. Awesome illustrator/artist. Here are a couple of quick studies that I did from drawings of his. There is much to learn from those whose work you admire and the best way to study the subtleties, for me at least, is through studies. These are conte and pastel.
Dancer- $285
Woman in Yellow- SOLD

Looking Back

2011-03-08T19:11:00.000-08:00

Another scene, nearly finished, from the Alcott community, near Bishopville, SC. As I was going down this particular dirt road, I turned around and saw this scene...I told my wife, whoa...look at that. I almost missed it...sometimes, it pays to "look back".
22x28.

Black Creek Show

2011-03-05T17:35:00.000-08:00

The show in Hartsville opened Thursday night to a big crowd. Many old friends and family were there as well as art enthusiasts from the area. The Black Creek Arts group did a great job setting up the art and providing food and drink. I was proud to be in the show with my grandmother, aunt, parents, brothers, children, nephews, and niece! The show will be up through most of April if you're in the area. Hartsville, SC.

Moon Hanger

2011-02-28T17:56:00.000-08:00

New painting of dance model, Chelsea S. Not sure where I was going with this...just wanted to paint something wondrous...magical. 24x30. Debuts at the Newnan Artwalk, March 25th. I'll be at Flint Gallery...featured artist!

Paintings Delivered

2011-02-25T17:31:00.001-08:00

All the work for the upcoming Pate family show has been delivered. Just got back from a trip to Hartsville SC to drop off mine. Nice gallery space and some exceptional work there. 12 family members will be showing paintings, drawings, photographs, architecture, animation, stained glass and jewelry. The opening is next week, March 3rd. The show will be up through the end of April. See more at one of the following links
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=152880711436669
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=149781028413025
http://www.blackcreekarts.org/cms/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=33%3Athe-pate-family-exhibit&catid=2%3Aevent-descriptions&Itemid=3

Emily Sings...Finally!

2011-02-14T09:58:00.000-08:00

I started this painting 8-10 years ago...if memory serves. It has gone through a series of changes over that time...white dress, black sweater, several choir robes, white background, all dark background, hands, no hands, and on and on. I always loved the face, however, and that's what kept me going back to it. The model, Emily S, sang in church one Sunday and I asked her if she'd pose for some photos..singing. She has since graduated from high school and college, gotten married and had a child. I'm just glad this wasn't a demo...I think I would have lost my audience some while ago. 24x30 oil.

Byrdtown

2011-02-11T17:41:00.000-08:00

Landscape of a scene in Byrdtown SC...just outside Hartsville. This is right behind where my wife lived when we were dating. I titled it "Hidden House" as the house is barely visible from the road. It's a mid winter scene...I kind of like the subdued colors. Painted for a family show coming up in March in Hartsville. 12 family members including a painting by my grandmother will be displayed at the Black Creek Arts Council gallery,116 West College Avenue Hartsville, SC. Opening is March 3... show runs through April.
12X36 oil
$1850

Say Yes to the Tutu

2011-02-08T05:39:00.000-08:00

New dance model, Melinda S, did a great job for us last night. A couple of 12-13 minute sketches shown here. Conte and pastel. Motown music from "The Big Chill" kept us entertained as we drew. Good turnout.
Top sketch- NFS
Bottom sketch- $225.

Take it Easy

2011-02-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

The Eagles provided our music last night as we drew Ashleigh F. Outstanding poses and a fun outfit made for a good night. This conte and pastel wasn't drawn in a New York minute but 15 minutes goes pretty fast. I guess that's life in the fast lane. Ashleigh, the girl from yesterday, definitely does not need to learn to be still...excellent composure. OK, I'll quit.

Hair!

2011-01-25T07:28:00.000-08:00

Dance model Katie C sitting on stool, leaning against the bar. Detail of a 15 minute conte and pastel. Delightful poses last night and a good group of 7 artists. Music by the 5th Dimension, hence, the "Hair!" title. Here's a little music trivia:

In 1969, the musical "Hair" was on Broadway. It was interesting how the Fifth Dimension ended up recording "Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In". Florence said, "It was a real fluke. We were performing in New York City and Billy lost his wallet in a taxi. The man who returned it invited us to see a play he produced. The play of course was Hair. Well we heard Aquarius and we all just looked at each other and said ‘We’ve got to sing this song. It’s great.'" It was producer Howe who suggested splicing Aquarius together with lyrics from another number in the musical which became "Let The Sunshine In". He got together with arranger Bob Alcivar & put the two songs together, making them work as one single. "We recorded that song in Las Vegas, in this small studio," says LaRue. "Our voices were all tired, we’d been performing there for over a month. It was the quickest thing we ever recorded and it was one of our biggest hits." They were very close to the railroad tracks, and while they were singing the final chorus, a train rumbled by. You can still hear the locomotive, though, just barely, on the final master.

Last Dance

2011-01-19T11:36:00.000-08:00

Final on the painting of Robin V and Chelsea S. 24x30 oil on canvas.

Life Portrait

2011-01-17T20:25:00.001-08:00

Montage portrait of Jessica C. I like to call something like this a "life portrait" because if shows a person at different stages of their life. Jessica is shown as a baby, as a child with her grandfather, and as a 16 year old. Also shown is a scene from an annual trip she takes to whale camp. Oil on alpha mat(museum board). Painted for her grandmother. Beautifully framed in Newnan by Perfect Composure. Approximately 28x28 image area. Click on images to see a larger version.

I may have been a Jeopardy Question!?

2011-01-13T17:22:00.000-08:00

My mother-in-law told me some time back that she saw a painting of mine on Jeopardy...as part of a video question. It was about Custer's Little Bighorn battle. I've not been able to confirm it but she knows my work pretty well and described the painting shown. The painting shows the Indian village from the vantage point of the bluffs where Custer first saw it. Anybody know somebody connected with Jeopardy??

Snow Day Free Offer

2011-01-10T07:59:00.000-08:00

My daughter has revamped and renamed her Etsy/blog. Check it out. Links below. It'll go quick, but first person to make a purchase from her, $35 or more, also get's this drawing. "Boots". Conte and pastel.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/braceypate
http://braceypate.blogspot.com/

Embracing the New Year

2011-01-05T19:40:00.000-08:00

New, unfinished painting of embracing dancers. Chelsea S and Robin V were the models. Love the emotion here as well as the pyramidal design. "Last Dance" is the working title. 24x30 oil

Ch-ch-changes

2010-12-30T15:20:00.000-08:00

Hey, everybody...make a note of an email address change for me. New one is:
pateart60@gmail.com

Here Comes Santa Claus

2010-12-21T14:51:00.000-08:00

Erin H in a reclining pose. 12 minutes. It was our Christmas party night. 2nd annual playing of Bob Dylan's Christmas album and 1st annual Christmas trivia contest. I discovered it was difficult to draw and run a trivia contest at the same time. Good time.

Peace, Love and Pastels

2010-12-18T20:14:00.001-08:00

Between computer problems and a lot of work that I can't post(Christmas presents), I've been a little slack in keeping up with the blog. Here is a drawing I liked from our last life drawing class. Model, Ashleigh F posed as an awesome hippy girl. I like the entire drawing but wanted to highlight a detail. 15 minutes, conte and pastel. $225.

Tis the Season

2010-11-29T19:05:00.000-08:00

2 minute gesture drawing and a 15 minute drawing of dancer Emily T from tonight's class. The gesture is drawn with the large chisel tip Sharpie on newsprint. The other is conte and pastel on drawing paper. We were entertained by the Mills Brothers Christmas CD and the Home Alone soundtrack.

One good turn....

2010-11-22T18:26:00.000-08:00

15 minute drawing of model Alex G...I really liked the turn of the head here. Good poses and a nice, classic outfit...black dress with a white scarf. I added some green for interest.

I Draw the Line

2010-11-15T18:57:00.000-08:00

A couple of drawings from tonight's class. James S, terrific as usual posing with a walking stick. Approx 10-15 minutes on these. Conte and pastel. Johnny Cash was our featured musician.
$185.- $200.

On Your Newstand!

2010-11-04T07:48:00.001-07:00

Check out the November 2010 "American Art Collector" magazine..pages 38, 105 and 110 for some of my work. The article on the OPA 2010 Eastern Regional is quite good and starts on page 100.

Welly, welly, welly, well.

2010-10-26T07:49:00.001-07:00

Erin H posed for the drawing class as Alex from "A Clockwork Orange". Fun costume, great poses as we all tried to recall images and scenes from the movie...no one had seen in a while...some had never seen it. This pose was 15 minutes, conte and pastel.

Country Fair

2010-10-25T04:37:00.000-07:00

Small painting...11x14. Inspired by a painting I saw many years ago at the Ringling Museum in Sarasota...I forget the artist but it was a real gem. One of the smaller works in the museum. This work, painted on masonite panel in oil.

Merle Haggard and Hobbits

2010-10-19T09:19:00.000-07:00

I didn't think about it at the time but Merle has a little hobbit in him...a little on the short side. He's the man though. We listened to part of his "Down Every Road" boxed set last night while Ashleigh posed in hobbit attire, complete with pointy ears. Here's a 15 minute conte and pastel and a 2 minute gesture drawing. I decided to really go wild on the gestures and draw in marker instead of lead or conte.

Cherry Grove

2010-10-18T06:01:00.000-07:00

Just to prove that I occasionally get out of the studio and paint, here's a photo of me taken by my friend David Boyd. We painted recently at Cherry Grove Beach, SC. I worked on an 11x14 Masonite panel...gessoed and toned with a wash.

God's Eyes

2010-10-12T18:38:00.000-07:00

I don't know Josiane and her English is not perfect but her expression of praise for the OPA Regional show in Wilmington, NC (opening this Friday) is as beautiful as you'll see. She was speaking specifically about the online pictures of the show. I particularly love, "They all get God eyes inside they art". Josiane really has me eager to see this show...hope some of you can make it!
Josiane's comment:
*Those picks, do not give justice to the beauty of the paintings. I had the chance to see the exhibition yesterday. I am going back today Sunday. I hope to find open doors.
From all i have seen in Wilmington and New-York, and for many years , this is the most amazing paintings i ever seen in 10 years. Some of them reminded me of Jan Vermeer.
I thought i was a good painter compare to what I see in exhibition some times. I guess i was not looking at the right place. Mayfaire exhibition will make you wonder: ” is it a photo or a painting”. Then as you’ll get closer to the canvas…. oh my gosh…. this is oil painting !…
As a painter, I was in admiration. There are not all famous artists…. Art lover this is your chance to own the next generation of Vermeer, Degas or maybe Rembrandt….
They all get God eyes inside they art.
Merci du fond du cœur pour cette extraordinaire exposition.
Josiane.

Yippee Ki Yay...

2010-10-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

October is costume month at the drawing class. Alex P came tonight as a cowgirl. 2 minute gestures shown. Drawn with a 6B lead on newsprint. 18x24 paper.

Mood

2010-10-10T11:24:00.000-07:00

11x14 study of dancer Robin V...this could possibly become a larger work later. From a photo shoot this summer...tutu was changed from blue to red.

Back in Action

2010-10-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

After a week out of town, I'm back and the drawing class has resumed. Bekah R modeled tonight. Very nice job in modern dance attire. 15 minute drawing shown.
$175

Etsy Time

2010-09-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

Hey, my daughters "Safety Pin Bracelet" got chosen as a feature on this Etsy page...check it out! Also, check out her Etsy store...great ideas for holiday gifts!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c98eb8a94f06d91f8c980ff/color-connections?index=0

Bracey's shop.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/braceypate?ref=top_trail

And Tutu Too

2010-09-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

Katie's tutu tonight at the drawing class needs it's own facebook page...it makes quite a statement! I'd sign up as a fan. Great dance poses tonight...despite a few limbs going to sleep. Drawing shown is 15 minutes. Long stretched out pose...I ran out of room for the hand.
Conte.

One Good Turn Deserves Another

2010-09-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

Small crowd at the drawing class but the usual great poses by Erin H. I liked several of my drawings and have posted one here. This drawing shows a standing pose from the rear. Really nice lines here...loved the turn of the torso and the positioning of the feet. Conte and pastel...15 minutes. $250.

Old Glory

2010-09-11T07:48:00.000-07:00

I had hoped to be finished with this painting by now but just not quite there. Detail of a large, 4'x6' painting of Fort Gordon GA circa 1942...in progress. Soldiers in formation before the old headquarters building...Old Glory flying. A memorial park and plaque now stand where this building was.

Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous??

2010-09-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

Well, not rich or famous but I'm in "Lifestyles" magazine this issue. Atlanta area magazine highlights "life around the perimeter". Dogwood Gallery in Tyrone has an ad in this issue featuring my painting, "The Girl in the Red Hat", as well as works by photographer Gary Gruby and painter Olga Mosina. The magazine is free at various locations. Good read...very nice quality...great ads! Dogwood Gallery is located behind the Legacy Theater in Tyrone, GA.

What a Crowd!

2010-08-30T19:28:00.000-07:00

14 at the drawing class tonight...close to a record! Outstanding...thanks to all that came. Ashleigh F was super...great poses...great outfit. Army style boots, a black tutu inspired skirt, black vest and black, sheer, disconnected sleeves that probably have a name but I don't get out much. Drawing shown here was a 15 minute, reclining pose.
$185.

NC Bound

2010-08-27T13:49:00.001-07:00

I posted this painting of dancer Robin V before but I found out this week that it was juried into the Oil Painters of America 2010 Regional Exhibition in Wilmington, NC. The show opens October 15 and runs through November 13. Based on names I saw on the acceptance list, this should be a very good show. The show will be at Walls Fine Art Gallery in Wilmington.
"Quiet Power" 24x30

Ride On William

2010-08-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

I first knew William as "The Bicycle Man". I noticed him shortly after moving to Newnan. It was then that I first realized that every where I had ever lived, especially small towns, had a William...local individuals that lived by their own rules...danced to the beat of a very different drum. William could be seen everywhere on his bicycle...and what a bike. I couldn't begin to tell you everything he had on that bike but the painting accurately depicts the display. I decided to approach William and ask him if he minded if I took some photos so that I could do a painting. I've often seen folks I'd like to paint for one reason or another but usually can't get up the nerve to ask them. I approached William in the parking lot of the First Methodist Church where he frequented a senior citizens group. It did'nt take but a moment to realize that William was special. William was both deaf and mute. He could neither hear my words nor speak but somehow we understood each other. I did my best to act out my wish to take his picture and William came to life. He was a very animated gentleman...very good at expressing himself. Over time, I painted the picture and found William so I could show it to him. I did not expect his reaction...he cried...crossed his arms over his heart...signed the "love" sign and more than any speaking person, showed his emotions and joy at the image. The painting has hung for years in a local downtown restaurant called "The Redneck Gourmet"...a place of honor among other local personalities and memorabilia. In July, while I was on vacation, I got an email that William had died. I really barely knew William but felt like we had a connection through the painting. The past few years I had seen less and less of William as he grew older and unable to ride. William was a piece of the unique fabric of Newnan...he'll be missed.

Red Heels

2010-08-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

Drawing of Erin H from the drawing class. 15 minute pose..conte and pastel. This drawing recently sold at Flint Gallery(Panoply) in Newnan...always blog worthy!

Do You Draw Like We Do?

2010-08-16T20:22:00.000-07:00

Peter Frampton fans will get the title. That one song lasted this entire drawing. Pretty cool. I like to tell life drawing students that instead of avoiding areas they have trouble with, instead, they should seek them out. Foreshortening is one of those areas a lot of people avoid..why? Because it's difficult! Still is...even after many years of life drawing. This pose had some challenges in the legs arms and even a little in the torso. Super pose...Emily M model. 15 minutes. conte and pastel.

Pre Egg McMuffin Breakfast

2010-08-11T20:11:00.000-07:00

Here's a final look at the painting for Charles Pinckney National Site in Mt. Pleasant, SC. 1791...George Washington and his entourage visited the farm of Charles Pinckney near Charleston. The painting will hang in the home/visitors center and is to be unveiled September 17...for anyone in the area that's interested. The painting is a large one, 4'x6'

Mucho Mucha

2010-08-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

Alex G posed for the drawing class and recreated 4 poses from works of one of my favorite artists...Alphonse Mucha. The interpretations were loose but a lot of fun. Alex did a great job of adding something extra to the norm. I believe this pose was from a work titled "Spring"...we also did Summer, Fall and Winter. We tried to represent a blowing wind by positioning the lower part of the dress on a box. 15 minutes, conte and pastel.
$225

Come Together

2010-08-03T19:04:00.000-07:00

Well, not too many of us "came together" to draw James last night...too bad...some cool poses. Late summer is always a little tough on numbers. Our small group had a good time drawing and listening to Abbey Road. Two drawings, one a detail...both 15 minutes or so. Conte
$185 each.

Lookin' For Johnny Reb

2010-07-26T19:49:00.000-07:00

I've been asked to have a show of Civil War art next year here in Newnan. I rarely do a painting like this unless it's a commission...takes too much time to research and paint unless I know for sure there's a paycheck coming. So, I've decided to do a few and borrow a few and hopefully, come up with a decent amount of works. This is one that I've wanted to do for some time. The idea is that the sole survivor of a group of confederate soldiers is behind enemy lines and is being hunted. The end may be near but he's not going down without a fight. With his Colt cocked and ready and his Bowie knife drawn, he's ready for the approaching enemy. 30x48...in progress.

Julie and Julia Remix

2010-07-25T18:56:00.000-07:00

A friend sent this still from the movie Julie and Julia showing the Yuchi-town poster (I did the painting). I posted about this last year when the movie was coming out. It's now available for rental or purchase...good flick if you didn't get to see it.

New Web Site

2010-07-22T19:27:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a new website...still have a ways to go. Some older work some newer work. Linked here is the fine art section...paintings and drawings done for galleries, for sale or personal works. I'm also working on a new site for interpretive art and portraits. More on that later.
www.martinpate.com (or click on the link to the right Martin Pate Fine Art)