Sandi Whetzel's Contemporary Fine Art

Sizzling Art Update: A Sneak Peek at Sandi Whetzel's most recent wine painting, "What's in YOUR Goblet?"

2011-11-21T16:58:00.000-08:00

"What's in YOUR Goblet?" 20x20 acrylic ©Sandi Whetzel

I'm always asking myself, "What feelings do people associate with wine and how can I express those feelings in exceptional ways in my art?" I want my viewers to connect and engage emotionally with my paintings. I'm always looking for the "Wow Factor". I'm finding that a sentimental, romantic hook has been fun and effective.

My most recent painting will probably have most appeal to women, but I hope that men will also appreciate the sentiment this painting evokes. I've set the stage very simply for a little poolside delight. It's a wine fantasy from a woman's perspective.

She's grasping at the goblet of red wine. Can you imagine his surprise and his reaction to her when the wine settles and he opens his eyes? Does he know he's being watched as he splish splashes in the wine? Does he even know her? Does she know him or is he just some dream hunk she's conjured up in her mind? What does she look like? Can you imagine her anticipation? You get to complete the fantasy.

What's in YOUR goblet? Do you want what she's having? Are you smiling now? How would this guilt-free pleasure look on your wall? Wouldn't it be a great conversation piece? How will it make you feel whenever you look at it?

Too see more of Sandi Whetzel's art, click here

ALTERNATIVE ART VENUES AND LOCAL ARTISTS RESPOND TO ECONOMIC TIMES: AFFORDABLE ART & HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW IN MEDFORD, OREGON

2011-11-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

What's in Your Goblet? 20x20 acrylic ©Sandi Whetzel

Local artists and savvy shoppers looking for affordable, exceptional holiday gifts have a rare opportunity to connect in Medford, Oregon during the Affordable Art and Holiday Gift Show, Friday and Saturday, November 18-19, 2011. Artists will display reasonably priced art works to respond to these economic times and encourage people to buy locally created art items with suggested price points under $100 and $200. A special venue will host these participating artists in the Higher Education Center located at 101 S. Bartlett Street. The hours of this special sale are 5-8 pm Friday, and 10 am-5 pm Saturday. The Opening evening coincides with Third Friday Art Walk in Downtown Medford, plus a Holiday Boutique at the Rogue Gallery across the street, and the Annual Gingerbread Jubilee at the nearby Craterian Theater.

Encore! 24x20 acrylic©Sandi Whetzel

One of the artists featured at the Higher Education Center, Sandi Whetzel, caters to wine enthusiasts, as well as uplifting contemporary flora inspired art. Her popular wine paintings have been used to promote the wine industry in Oregon. Whetzel will offer a few reasonably priced, stunning flora originals and some high quality reproductions of her wine inspired art and floras. Sandi also has classy wine inspired apparel for men and women. There will be something for every budget.

Be sure to also check out Sandi's paintings across the street at the Rogue Gallery and Art Center. Whetzel has a painting, "Grape de Chine", featured in the Main Gallery as part of the "Smaller Than a Breadbox" exhibit, running through December 23. Opening reception for that exhibit is Friday evening from 5-8, coinciding with the 3rd Friday and the Affordable Art and Holiday Gift Show. Sandi wishes she could be both places at once, but she hopes to meet many visitors at the Higher Education Center. The artist also has three contemporary flora paintings hanging in the Members' Gallery space at the Rogue Gallery through April 28, 2012. Be sure to pull out all the innovative sliding walls in that area to see all of the art. You can see more of Sandi Whetzel's art here

KALEIDOSCOPIC EXHIBIT, Intimate Views of Foliage: Romancing the Curves--Seven Feathers Convention Center, 10/15/11

2011-10-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

"Kaleidoscope" 30x24 acrylic ©Sandi Whetzel

A seductive flirtation with captivating, curvaceous shapes and vibrant color sparks my passion for creating contemporary acrylic paintings. I embrace the nuances in forms, color and patterns drawn from the plant world.

My fascination with engaging designs in nature entices me to play with the subjects in preliminary thumbnail sketches to enhance their formation. Part of the seduction is discovering how to integrate the figures and emphasize their tantalizing contours. The decision of where to crop the images makes them intimate with the edges of the canvas. The resulting spaces surrounding the objects become intriguing configurations in the design. I toy with the elements until I've coaxed them into a pleasing arrangement of energy and rhythm that accentuates their distinctive qualities.

My excitement builds as I brush the concept on canvas, anticipating how exquisitely the objects can be embellished with luscious color, sculptural brush strokes and tangible textures. My hand and the pigment-loaded brush become graceful dancing partners, tracing the silhouettes to reveal their structure on canvas.

I savor the freedom and the challenge of going beyond merely reproducing images; to paint them as I choose to visualize them. I hope to achieve an animated, sensuous or playful quality with the graceful motifs that are a recurrent theme in my art. When things are going well, the brush strokes express flourish and a sculpted, carved quality, softness or energy; whatever is needed to convey the character and emotional energy of the structures. Viewers are escorted through the paintings; impregnated with the emotions the configurations and colors convey. I consider my work to be most successful when people express how my paintings make them feel.

I hope the celebration and interplay of forms, patterns and colors in my art provides joy, inspiration and sanctuary to individuals during stressful times of their lives. I create because it gives me pleasure to discover and embellish beauty in nature. I delight in having some degree of control in this one aspect of my life where I can see and render subjects as I choose to visualize them.

You can see Sandi Whetzel's upcoming exhibit, KALEIDOSCOPE, thirteen intimate views of foliage, during the South Douglas County Festival of Arts, Saturday, October 15, 2011. This one day festival will be at Seven Feathers Casino Resort Convention Center in Canyonville, OR. Admission is free and the hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The festival features Douglas County's finest painters, jewelry designers, potters, artisans and live music.

Sandi is very excited about showing this body of work because she rarely gets to share her flora genre. Whetzel is also known for her popular wine images that have promoted the wine industry in Oregon. The popularity of her wine series preoccupies available booth space at most of her exhibition opportunities. In addition to the floras, Sandi will also display reproductions of her popular wine series and her classy wine inspired apparel for men and women.

Currently Whetzel's wine series is hanging at Liquid Assets Wine Bar, 96 North Main, in Ashland, Oregon through November 11th. First Friday Art Walks at that venue are from 5-7 pm, October 4 and November 7th. To see more of Sandi's art, click here.

A WINE ODYSSEY: The Wine Painting that Started an Artistic Wine Adventure

2011-09-08T13:25:00.000-07:00

"Wine on the Vine" 28x22 acrylic©Sandi Whetzel

My wine odyssey emerged from my love of curvaceous lines and shapes. Early in my art career I was strongly attracted to curvilinear, graceful shapes and patterns in my sensuous flora subjects. After several years, I took a slight artistic detour when I entered a painting competition to promote the "Greatest of the Grape", a premiere wine event. They wanted a painting to illustrate the theme of "Wine on the Vine" and reflect the 'elegance of the evening'. To win, I knew I'd have to create a concept that said, "Wine on the Vine" better than any other.

This painting challenge was pivotal. I had limited experience inventing paintings from my imagination and I had not painted anything related to wine. I started thinking about all things wine--grapevines, vineyards, wine bottles, goblets toasting, grapes, cheese wedges, finely set tables, formally attired maitre d's, etc. However, I was looking for an exceptional concept.

I honed in on the curvaceous shapes of wine bottles; thinking I might paint some abstracted wine bottles nestled among grapevines. I sketched five robustly curved wine bottles in a group of three and two others hanging from grapevine stems. The graceful bottles were placed at slightly different angles; gently swaying in the wind. More ideas for the concept presented themselves as I continued the sketch. When I was satisfied with the arrangement of the wine bottles, it suddenly occurred to me that I could add a big cluster of grapes growing inside each bottle; each cluster of a different hue.

I gathered fallen, dried grape leaves to observe their wind-twisted shapes and vein patterns. I sketched many leaves before determining their arrangement in the painting. To reflect 'the elegance of the evening' , I was inspired to place a golden moon rendered in a pearly pigment with upraised texture in just the right spot above the grapevines. I chose to paint the glow of the moon radiating out in circular brush strokes of a blue evening sky. As I gathered dried grapevine tendrils for observation, I was fascinated with their twisting, winding structure. I strategically placed a few tendrils in the painting.

The ideas for the painting continued to flow as I got deeper into details of the painting. I added glistening highlights, colored reflections and shadows to the grapes, bottles and leaves to show the sparkle of moonlight and reveal form and transparency. The wind-blown grape leaves and the climbing tendrils, the angled placement of the bottles, all following the radiating pattern of the moonlit sky, created an elegant, rhythmic movement that was appealing to many viewers.

The painting was a success because it came entirely from my imagination. I devoted much thought to every element of the design to express "Wine on the Vine" as well as it could be stated. This experience of creating something from my imagination to illustrate a predetermined theme was very rewarding. It will always remind me of what can be when you trust your imagination to lead you in your creative endeavors.

The response to this first wine painting was so great that I was inspired to enter other competitions to promote wine and other events. Each competition resulted in paintings of subject matter that I might never have tackled without these challenges. The wine paintings were selling more than my other graceful subjects. Wineries and wine enthusiasts were popping up all over the Umpqua Valley in Oregon where I reside. Between wine events, I started dreaming up other ideas for wine paintings to fit my own wine themes of whimsy, or elegant celebration, or romantic fantasy. My wine odyssey continues. For a slideshow of my wine series, click here

With each painting my goal is to outshine the previous one. I aim to impress and connect with wine enthusiasts emotionally. It's almost as if I am creating commercials for the wine industry. In my wine frame-of-mind, I ask myself, what feelings are associated with wine and how can I convey those feelings in ways that are exceptional? If I can add a romantic hook, all the better. My passion for curvy shapes easily creeps into graceful wine goblets and wine bottles and the things I associate with them. Bold, stimulating, eye-catching color and novel subject matter, fluid lines, movement and rhythm are all part of the design to draw the viewer into the wine odyssey experience.

My wine series will be exhibited at the Umpqua Valley Wine, Art and Music Festival, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 10 & 11, 2011 on the Umpqua Community College Campus, Roseburg, Oregon, exit 129 off I-5. My booth is located across from the food court and at the rear of the entertainment seating. Festival hours are Sat., from 11-9:30 pm and Sun., from 11-5:00 pm. For a schedule of events, click here

Genie in a Bottle 24x12 acrylic ©Sandi Whetzel

2011-08-26T20:22:00.001-07:00

Genie in a Bottle 24x12 acrylic ©Sandi Whetzel
Originally uploaded by sandiwhetzel

What's your wine fantasy? Romance in a bottle? Wine is many things to many different people. I hope this most recent of my wine series enchants all who view it.

She's been waiting a long time for the right man to make all her dreams come true and she's wondering if he's up to the challenge. He's finally found the right vintage. Wishes can come true.

I'm always looking for ideas to hook wine art enthusiasts. It occurred to me that a lady inside a wine bottle would be worth pursuing. I felt that all was needed was her in the wine bottle and a pair of man's hands opening the bottle. The challenge of rendering her so small was plenty and his hands opening the bottle was just enough to tell the story without a lot of other distracting details.

"Genie in a Bottle" will make it's debut at the Umpqua Valley Wine, Art and Music Festival on Umpqua College campus Sept. 10 & 11th, 2011 in Roseburg, OR.

ALTERNATIVE ART VENUES: 3RD FRIDAY MEDFORD ART WALK, AUG 19, 2011

2011-08-17T11:25:00.000-07:00

"...and Let There Be Wine!" 30x24 acrylic ©Sandi Whetzel

A balmy summer evening in Medord, OR and there's plenty to do. From 5-8 pm you can wander through dozens of venues participating in this month's 3rd Friday Art Walk, August 19. Numerous businesses up and down Main Street and surrounding areas of historic downtown Medford stay open to participate in the 3rd Friday Art Walks each month. The locations are approximately within a six block radius of one another. In addition to the art displays, there are always musicians, dining and shopping available.

Many forward-thinking artists are stepping outside the box to put their art physically in front of people's eyes. They want to give their audience the opportunity to get up close and personal with the art; to see it, touch it and have opportunity to interact with the artist. That is not always possible in a traditional gallery situation. Regularly scheduled monthly art walks hosted by city businesses are a good alternative. The events draw onlookers to the downtown area one evening each month to experience dining, music and shopping at the businesses, as well as experience great art. It's a win for attendees, businesses and the artists.

This month a contemporary artist from Douglas County, Sandi Whetzel, of Days Creek, Oregon will exhibit under one of the10'x20' tents placed in Vogel Plaza, a spacious park-like setting at the corner of Main and Central and next to the Craterian Ginger Rogers Theater. Each of Whetzel's acrylic paintings have curvaceous, fluid movement in common. Some of the pieces are fanciful, while others suggest elegant, sensuous qualities. The radiant chroma, stimulating motifs and rhythmic movements throughout Sandi's art works are sure to tickle your senses.

Whetzel is also known for her signature paintings to promote Oregon wine industry events. This month Sandi will introduce Medford to her stunning acrylic wine series originals, high quality reproductions, art magnets, greeting card art and exclusive art inspired wine-theme apparel for men and women. Wine enthusiasts are in for a memorable experience because Sandi's art stands out. Her colors will grab viewers and her content is unforgettable.

Recently Whetzel has shown her art at nearby Ashland, Main Street venues. She currently has art at Ashland's new LOVE Revolution boutique and gift gallery. Some of her wine series will exhibit at Liquid Assets Wine Bar in Ashland mid-September through mid-November and at Ashland's Pangea Restaurant next Spring. You can see more of Whetzel's art here or view a slideshow of her art here.

Although Medford is an hour and a half drive from her home, Sandi Whetzel is anxious to share her art with Medford during the 3rd Friday Art Walk August 19th.

A few years ago a small group of dedicated artists and downtown business owners launched Medford's 3rd Friday Art Walk to help draw more patronage to the downtown art scene. Their vision was to create an event which would revitalize downtown Medford into a vibrant, prosperous place by bringing culture, art and more commerce to Main Street. The hopes and aspirations of these merchants and artisans has grown into a monthly event which has transformed downtown Medford into a walkable art gallery featuring art from many different spectrums, such as paintings, sculpture and performing artists.

Downtown Medford's 3rd Fridays are a production of the Heart of Medford business association and the Arts Council of Southern Oregon. The Art Walks are sponsored by Premiere West Bank, US Bank, Lithia Motors, Old Town Medford and Southern Oregon University. The mainstay of art in Medford is the Rogue Art Gallery which is always open during the Art Walks, plus there are occasional shows at the Higher Education Center just across the street. An additional venue for art will debut in the buillding that housed the former Neoglassic studio, on Middleford Alley this month. In the Middleford space these artists will display:

Cauker, acrylics and watercolors, Chris Licata, mixed media paintings, and prints and Peter Van Fleet, wood assemblage w/ paint and other materials. In addition to Whetzel's art in the Vogel Plaza, will be art by Linda Evans, oils and pastels; Children's Advocacy Center paintings, ceramic, sketches and music by G.R. Nelson. Come see what Medford has in store for you in your stroll through the 3rd Friday Art Walk August 19 from 5-8 pm.

ART, ROMANCE AND LOVE: A REVOLUTIONARY ART VENUE IN ASHLAND, OR

2011-07-31T16:20:00.000-07:00

Earth, Wind, Fire 30x24 acrylic©Sandi Whetzel

LOVE Revolution ٠ Art and Gifts is a new innovative gallery and boutique presenting an enlightened approach to romance and relationships. It started as a love affair between two people who met in Ashland, Oregon and continues to be that 'once in a lifetime' relationship.

Brenda and Mitchell's expansive love cannot be contained. They have been inspired to inspire. Through a collaboration of artists and wise counsel, they have created a space to uplift our souls, get our minds to wonder "why not?" and inspire the body to dance, sing and celebrate this precious moment in life. Their revolution is about loving the unique being that is you and finding that irrepressible inner joy that must radiate to the world.

LOVE Revolution is located on the downstairs level of the building complex at 111 East Main Street, Ashland, OR, next to Paddington Station.

One of the featured artists at this new gallery space is Sandi Whetzel, of Days Creek, OR. The gallery at LOVE Revolution is a great example of the artist's willingness to think outside of the box regarding exposure to her engaging art. Her sinuous, vibrantly colored abstractions of plant life and trees lend an animated, buoyant feeling to the gallery. Each of Whetzel's acrylic paintings have curvaceous, fluid movement in common. Some of the pieces are fanciful, while others suggest elegant, sensuous qualities. The radiant chroma, stimulating motifs and rhythmic movements throughout Sandi's art works are sure to tickle your senses.

Sandi's contemporary paintings are distinguished by breath taking, harmonious color and her passion for graceful, curvilinear forms. The artist is also known for her signature paintings to promote the Oregon wine industry. Recently Whetzel has shown her art in other Ashland venues; Liquid Assets Wine Bar, the Key of C, Boulevard Coffee and Lithia Springs Resort. Part of her wine series is scheduled to exhibit at Liquid Assets Wine Bar mid-September through mid-November and her art will exhibit at Ashland's Pangea Restaurant next Spring. You can see more of Whetzel's art here or view a slide show here

The art works of eight other local artists, two of which are sculptors, are also gracing the well-lit gallery space. All art is themed on LOVE Revolution's business model of love, sensuality and spirituality.

LOVE Revolution's products include original works of art, love-themed gifts and educational material. As an important and distinguishing aspect to the business, the management will host educational talks and events presented by doctors, therapists and educators on topics including relationships, lifestyle, feminine empowerment, communication and sexual health. LOVE Revolution is intended to uplift the community, bolster neighboring businesses and provide much sought-after products and services from reputable sources.

Ashland's newest gallery and gift boutique will celebrate their grand opening Friday, August 5 with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 3:00 pm. The management at LOVE'S invites you to start off your First Friday Art Walk early to share in the celebration and be the first to see the compelling art at Ashland's newest gallery. The celebration will continue throughout the First Friday Art Walk that evening with wine, music and opportunities to meet the artists. Most First Friday Art Walk participating locations close at 8 pm, but Ashland's newest Art Walk gallery destination will remain open until 10 pm. LOVE Revolution will be the place to wind up your stroll in your quest for enchanting art.

Your Wine Fantasy, "Moonlight Rendezvous", or "What's in Your Goblet?"

2011-06-14T14:51:00.001-07:00

Moonlight Rendezvous 30x24 acrylic©Sandi Whetzel
Originally uploaded by sandiwhetzel

When you are with the one you love, you can't fight the moonlight under a lover's sky. This perfect wine pairing of two moonstruck lovers has all the seductive elements for a romantic encounter. A romantic beach, a beautiful moonlit sky and elegant wine with a sweet finish that lingers. It's liquid bliss. What's in your goblet?

This painting, like its predecessor in sultry reds, “A Toast to Love and Wine”, engages viewers on several levels. Both paintings present viewers with the prospect of triggering their own personal fantasy of love and wine, or creating their own version of what each painting represents. While both paintings set the scene for wine fantasies, they leave viewers with questions that only the viewers can answer as to what is about to happen or has occurred.

Viewing “Moonlight Rendezvous”, one might think that the man in the water has just discovered the lady in the goblet, marveling at her beauty and deciding how to get to her. Is it a chance meeting? Do they already know each other, or was their meeting prearranged? His position in the water with his shoulders facing the viewer might lead to other conclusions. Maybe they have already been together and it is time for him to go. Maybe, in his reluctance to leave her, he lingers for one last gaze at her; basking in the afterglow of their experience. What do you think?

The response to the first painting was so powerful that I was inspired to create another one with equal impact. I could have used the same passionate reds, but since both paintings share similar elements of a lady in a goblet, a man in the water, and a sky scape, I felt I should vary the composition of this second painting. In fairness to my art collectors, neither painting should be too similar to the other so that each painting has its own uniqueness, even though they share a theme. Each one stands distinctly on its own and will not be confused by the other.

The sizzling sunset of the first painting was changed to a tranquil moonlight. The placement of the man in the water is completely different. The woman's pose was altered and she is a blonde, instead of the slimmer, dark-haired lady in the first painting. I used a more intimate close-up view of the lady in the goblet. She is more prominent and more visible in the twilight than the lady in the first painting. I managed to keep the men in both paintings as a secondary surprise element. The seductive blues in this painting create a dreamy, sensual ambiance that will make it at least as compelling as its predecessor. Here's to living your fantasy!

This painting and others in my wine series will be on display at the Umpqua Valley Arts Association Annual Summer Arts Festival, June 24-26, 2011 at 1624 W Harvard Ave, Roseburg, OR. Look for me and my art in booth #84. I'm doing my best to live up to this year's festival theme of "Paint the Town". For festival hours and events, click here: This arts extravaganza is one of the largest of its kind in the Pacific Northwest and considered to be a premiere community event.

“NAME THIS PAINTING” CONTEST: Artist Seeks Help Naming Most Recent Painting

2011-06-01T01:30:00.000-07:00

Not titled yet©Sandi Whetzel

Have you ever named a painting? As an artist I give considerable time and thought to picking a title for my paintings because I feel that viewers of the art will connect more to it if it has a clever and fitting title. I usually don't have a title in mind until after the painting is finished. Then, hopefully, it reminds me of something that helps me arrive at a title. The finished art makes me feel a certain way about it that often leads me to its title.

Some paintings are harder than others to title. The blue painting pictured here is one that I'm struggling with, so I've decided to hold a contest or a poll to see what the majority of respondents think is the most fitting title for my most recent painting. If you pick a title for the painting that I haven't already considered and I like it enough to use it, I will award a free 8x10 reproduction of the painting to the first responder that provides the winning title. The winner will be responsible for shipping charges only. Be sure to read the titles I am already considering later in this post to see if you can come up with something I like better. If you can't think of anything better to suggest as a title, I would appreciate you emailing me your vote for which of the titles I have suggested so I can see which is the most popular title for this painting. (See "Email Me" link under "Contacting Sandi Whetzel" heading at top right sidebar of this page.)

This tastefully sensual moonlit scene of the beautiful lady nestled in the wine goblet is a sequel to the last very popular one that I did of very similar subject matter. You can see that one, titled, “A Toast to Love and Wine” here:

"A Toast to Love and Wine"©Sandi Whetzel

In both paintings I intentionally rendered the men in the paintings less obviously so that you would not see them at first sight. You should notice the beautiful woman in each painting first and then be pleasantly surprised at the observation of the male counterparts in the paintings. Both paintings are a wine fantasy involving lovers. In each of these two paintings the women seem to be having their own private thoughts or dreams; almost oblivious to the rest of the scene.

Lately I've been expanding my wine series of paintings because wine has become a really big thing in the Umpqua Valley where I live. There are many wine lovers in my area and they have made significant connections to my imaginative wine themed art. My wine paintings are very different from the wine paintings you see elsewhere. People are drawn to the paintings because they remind them of how they feel when they drink wine. I've kept those feelings in mind to help me come up with concepts for the paintings. Sometimes I feel almost like I'm creating commercials for the wine industry but that's what it takes for me to create paintings that draw people to them.

OK, now here are the titles I've been considering for this most recent blue wine painting:

“A Romantic Wine Pairing”, “A Perfect Wine Pairing”, “Moonlight Reverie”, “Wine Lovers”, “A Wine Affair”, “Moonlight Rendezvous”, “Wine Buffs”, “Basking in the Afterglow”, “Hope Floats”, “Wine Fantasy”, and “What's in Your Goblet?”

Can you think of a title you like better? If not, which one of the above do you vote for? Email me your suggestions to compete for the winning title or vote for your favorite of my suggestions. (Use the "Email Me" link at the top right sidebar of this page under the heading of "Contacting Sandi Whetzel". This should be fun and I'd love to know what you think.

If you'd care to leave comments about the painting, click the "Comments" link below this post but I will not be able to contact you directly from there. If you want to be notified if you are the winner, then you must use the "email me" link at the top right on the sidebar under the "Contacting Sandi Whetzel" heading to enter your title suggestion(s) and/or vote for one of my suggestions. (The post comments are subject to moderation.) I look forward to hearing from you.

Grape de Menthe 30x24 acrylic©Sandi Whetzel

2011-05-27T11:01:00.001-07:00

Grape de Menthe 30x24 acrylic
Originally uploaded by sandiwhetzel

These grapes have earned their stripes, literally. In my quest to capture the interest of grape and wine lovers, I wanted to do something really different and fun with grapes. I liked this sketch of a cluster of grapes because it had so many different shapes of grapes; some round and some showing off the oblong side views of grapes.

I had decided to paint the background of large violet stripes even before I knew how I would render the grapes. After a while it became apparent that the grapes could be striped as well. I finally resorted to using a magic marker to stripe a chicken egg so that I could observe what would happen to the stripes on it when I viewed it from various angles. As a result, each grape assumes its own personality.

The grapes situated in the rear of the cluster recede because I used cooler colors to set them back. The grapes take on even more dimension with the addition of shadows cast below them and a warm, golden light at the top of the grapes exposed to direct sunlight.

It was a challenge to come up with a title for this painting. The striped grapes reminded me of mint candies. Then I remembered that there is a liqueur, creme de menthe, that is a sweet, mint-flavored alcoholic beverage. It was fitting that these striped minty grapes destined for wine lovers should be called "Creme de Menthe". It was fun and challenging to dream up this new fun twist on grapes.

A Love Triangle and Tryst: Art, Wine and Posh Nosh

2011-04-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

The Unveiling 20x10 acrylic ©Sandi Whetzel

Like great food and wine, art is a pleasure of the senses. These three sensual delights come together like players in a seductive love triangle, finding their tryst at Liquid Assets Wine Bar in Ashland, OR. The willing participants in this triangle are an ample assortment of wine varietals paired with seasonal French-inspired cuisine. This complementary duo shares a cozy ambiance with a seductive and stimulating art exhibit. Sandi Whetzel, contemporary acrylic artist from Days Creek, OR, is a refreshing, recent addition to Ashland’s art scene. Her vibrant succulents and other flora are on display now at Liquid Assets Wine Bar, Bottle Shop and Restaurant through the evening of May 12.

Luscious colors and graceful shapes inspired from the plant world are a recurrent theme in Whetzel's art. Fantasy blends with reality in Sandi's contemporary, surrealistic and frequently sensual delights--succulents, abstract flora and trees and her most recent passion to expand her wine series. The artist is also known for her wine-themed paintings that have been used to promote the Oregon Wine industry. Marsa Morse, curator for Liquid Assets art exhibits, has invited Sandi for a return engagement to exhibit a sampling of her wine series paintings at the wine bar in September.

In addition to participating in the First Friday Art Walks, Liquid Assets will host Rogue Creamery’s pairing of their cheeses with “Heydon Road” wine during the annual “A Taste of Ashland” weekend, April 30 and May 1^st. Whetzel’s captivating art will be gracing the wall during that event also.

Top off your cruise of Ashland’s hot art stops during the First Friday ArtWalk, May 6 from 5-8 pm, with a rendezvous at Liquid Assets. The food, wine, ambiance and the tantalizing art will tickle your senses. Sandi will be delighted to visit with interested visitors. The wine bar is located at 96 N Main St., adjacent to the Bard’s Inn and the Plaza Inn and Suites and just a short walk from many of Ashland’s quaint Bed-and-Breakfasts.

You can view more of the artist’s work here:

"A Toast to Love and Wine" Premieres at the 2011 "Greatest of the Grape"

2011-03-20T17:28:00.001-07:00

A Toast to Love and Wine 30x24 acrylic ©Sandi Whetzel
Originally uploaded by sandiwhetzel

It's a very romantic "wine pairing". It's a wine fantasy. It gives new meaning to red, red wine...

My original concept for creating this painting was for the viewer to see a beautiful sunset through the wine glass placed on the beach. As you are drawn closer into the scene to take in more detail, you eventually discover just the simple, basic highlighted silhouette of a lovely lady nestled in the glass. The intention was to obscure her more by the shadows in the wine so that you didn't see her at first glance.

However, after all the effort it took to render her graceful form so well in preparation for a perfectly highlighted silhouette, I didn't have the heart to obscure her in the wine shadows at all. And if I were to obscure her more, there would have to be more interest in the sky to hold the viewer's interest before discovering her.

Finally, the man climbing up the stem of the goblet was to be the second element of surprise. To carry that off, I probably should have indicated a beach line to ground him to the beach. Well, maybe these are ideas for another painting. Sometimes in the painting process, you just have to go where the painting leads you.

As it turned out, I think there are just enough elements in the painting as I rendered it; creating a little seductive mystery for viewers to draw their own conclusions. The viewers decide if he is on the beach, climbing up the goblet to get to her, or, if he found her under the sea and is scooping her up. Or is it all a dream? And what about her? Is she dreaming of him, too, or is she totally oblivious to what is taking place? That's totally up to you, the viewer. You decide. Maybe that's partly why this painting has had so much appeal—each individual viewer gets to participate in the fantasy; imagining their own story line for the painting.

“Here's to love and wine!” Enjoy!

And now a post script: This original painting sold to a new private collector during its debut showing at the 41st Annual "Greatest of the Grape" event, March 5, 2011. My art booth was very busy and sales were really good. A high quality reproduction of my other recent painting, "...and Let There Be Wine!", see it here, was used as the theme and promotion piece for this event. Another private collector and his wife were determined to win the silent auction bid for that hand embellished reproduction on canvas. Now they own three of my paintings. Love those collectors!

Umpqua Valley Winegrowers Association Chooses Sandi Whetzel's Painting, "...and Let There Be Wine!" to promote the 2011 Greatest of the Grape Event

2011-02-02T20:44:00.001-08:00

"...and Let There Be Wine!" 30x24 acrylic ©Sandi Whetzel
Originally uploaded by sandiwhetzel
I envisioned the concept for this painting to reflect the fertile valleys, rivers and vineyards that abound in the Umpqua valleys here in Oregon. I imagined the huge goblet suspended in a rose-colored atmosphere. I enjoyed directing the heavenly wine streaming from the bottle down into the goblet. The force of the wine landing in the bowl of the goblet caused the flow of the wine to separate; swirling up both sides of the glass simultaneously and then rippling back down again as the wine continued to pour. This energetic movement of the wine resembles terrain with lush vegetation on both sides of the goblet. A river gently cuts through the wine and the vineyards on the three hills spring forth.

I had no idea what I would title the painting until it was finished. Then it reminded me of the firmament at the time of creation when God said, "and let there be light" and there was light, and it was good. After he separated the water from the firmament and brought forth land and vegetation he might have said, "... and Let There Be Wine!"

The painting was created to compete in a contest for a new logo for the Umpqua Valley Winegrowers Association. The Winegrowers liked the painting and the title so well that they decided to use the image and it's title for the theme of the 2011 "Greatest of the Grape" event. The image of my painting appears on posters all over the county. The organization ordered a high quality giclee reproduction of the painting to be auctioned off to the highest bidder at the event, March 5th. This is the second time that organization has used my art to promote their annual event. The first time was in 2006 when they chose my painting, "Uplifting Spirits" to illustrate their theme of "Over 100 Cork Poppin' Years."

Sandi Whetzel's Art Featured at "Henry Goes Halloween!" Oct 30, 2010, Henry Estate Winery, Umpqua, OR

2010-10-19T10:05:00.000-07:00


R.S.V.P. Requested©Sandi Whetzel

I am very pleased to be invited back to Henry Estate Winery to display my art during their Henry Goes Halloween! party all day Saturday, October 30, 2010 from 10 am - 10 pm. I've had a great time showing my art and meeting wine tasters on several Sundays during Henry Cafe's Fall Concert Series. And soon Henry Estate Winery will be offering my wine-themed apparel with their logo on them in their gift gallery. The first of the wine series on shirts will be of the image displayed with this post. How cool is that?

This family oriented winery event is located at 687 Hubbard Creek Road in Umpqua, OR. There will be live music all day, free food favors, wine tasting, a best carved and decorated pumpkin contest, a Pumpkin Rumble with 500 pumpkins and 500 great prizes, a special kids tent with music, balloons, face painting and magic. There will be adult and children costume contests with prizes. At 5 pm the adult dance, Monster Mash, featuring Flashbak will start and the partying will continue until 10 pm. There will be lots of vendors and I will display my art, too. The event will be held rain or shine. If there's a chance of rain, it will be held in the completely covered back landing area of Henry's with additional large tents. For a complete schedule of events please click here

Sandi Whetzel's Art Featured at Seven Feathers Convention Center, Canyonville, OR: the South Douglas County Festival of Arts

2010-10-05T14:51:00.000-07:00

Sandi Whetzel's contemporary art will be on exhibit at the Seven Feathers Casino Convention Center as part of the first ever South Douglas County Festival of Arts, October 16, from 9 am to 5 pm. Admission to the event is free and in addition to fine art there will be wine tasting hosted by Delfino vineyards in the afternoon, live music by four different musical groups, live demonstrations, door prizes and free hands-on art activities for adults and children. KPIC TV of Roseburg will be airing commercial advertisement of the festival on Wednesday, October 6 and one of my painting images will be shown. How cool is that? There will be access to food at the entrance to the event, so you can plan to spend as much of the day as you like checking out everything at the festival. Also in the building in a separate section will be Stampfest 2010 for stamp collectors and the Jefferson State Antique Bottle and Collectibles Show. All events are free to the public. For more information about these two events click here .

I am really looking forward to this lively event. I've heard some of the music and it is easy on the ears. I am also excited because I will have the first of my wine themed apparel available for sale. I've received a lot of very positive feedback regarding the first image, "R.S.V.P.", (photo above). I will have men's and women's polo style shirts, women's scooped neck with cap sleeves and a few spaghetti strapped tops for women. All shirts will be solid black with the image of this very popular painting at the left side of the shirt from the shoulder down across the chest and will float against the black background of the shirt. It has a very classy, elegant look for both men's and women's attire. It is a very unique, one of a kind image. You can be one of the first to wear one of these shirts and everyone will ask how they can get one. If you cannot attend this event but are interested in purchasing one of these black shirts, email me at the email link to the right of this post or call me at 541-825-3525 for pricing and availability of each of the three shirt styles and sizes.

Umpqua Valley Wine, Art and Music Festival 2010

2010-09-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

What a great time I had at the 2010 Umqua Valley Wine, Art and Music Festival held on the lush grounds of the Umpqua Community College campus Sept. 11 and 12 in Roseburg, Oregon. The painting pictured here is Jewels for Wine, which I used on my postcard invitations for the event. I met many new friends who came to my art booth and I even sold a good amount of art. Much to my delight, many people expressed interest in my up-coming line of wine-themed art apparel. It has been a challenge to get crisp, clean representation of my brilliant colors printed on fabric at affordable prices but I am hopeful that it will all come together soon. Then I can post about that.

During this wine festival I unveiled my latest painting, "...and Let There Be Wine!" It was conceived and created to submit to the Umqua Valley Winegrowers Association as a possible new logo for their organization. The winegrowers committee has met once but will not convene again to make a decision until after the October grape harvest. I am still in limbo regarding the logo contest, but that painting was very well received by viewers at the Wine Festival.

This summer has been a very busy one for me. I have had art displayed at the Umpqua Valley Art Association's ARTrageous Annual Summer Arts Festival the last weekend of June in Roseburg, at La Bagette Cafe in Ashland, OR during the months of June and July, at Organicos Natural Cafe, 226 E Main St., Medford, OR, August through October and in the vacant storefront on Jackson St, Roseburg during the months of July and August. On Saturday, September 25, I will exhibit my wine-themed art next to the Clay Potential shop on Main Street in Riddle, OR as part of the Riddle Harvest Festival. That event will be from 10 am to 5 pm and the admission is free.

I also attended an opening reception for my art Sept. 3rd at the Gallery at Lithia Springs Resort, 2165 W Jackson Rd, in Ashland, OR. It was a part of Ashland's diverse First Friday Art Walk. I met some wonderful people who showed up for the wine tasting reception and I even sold a painting. That exhibit will run through the end of October so I will be attending a second First Friday Reception at Lithia on October 1st. But it doesn't end there. I will exhibit at the Seven Feathers Convention Center, 146 Chief Miwaleta Lane, Canyonville, OR on October 16th as part of the South Douglas County Festival of Arts. I started exhibiting on Sundays at Henry Estate Winery September 26 and October 3rd and I'll be there again Sunday, October 10th to exhibit inside the winery as part of their free wine tasting and concert. And just this morning the owner of Brix 527 restaurant on Jackson St., Roseburg, asked me to display my art in her restaurant during the months of January and February, 2011. Whew! I'd better get back to work.

Art in Vacant Storefronts: Exploring the Possibilites for Artists and the Business Community

2010-08-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

Great exposure to my art at no cost to me, the artist! What"s not to like? I was excited to be invited to display my contemporary art in a local vacant storefront at 465 Jackson Street, Roseburg, OR from June 28 through August, 2010. That street gets a good amount of traffic because it is located near the county courthouse, library, city offices, post office, a bank and other thriving businesses downtown. As a bonus, it gets lots of exposure during Roseburg's annual Graffiti Weekend which occurs during that time frame.

The Art Windows Exhibit Project is a relatively new idea to Roseburg. This project mirrors the efforts of other cities across the nation to activate lifeless, empty buildings with the energy of lively, attractive art. The art changes every two months and engages the citizens and city visitors who view it. The addition of the art enlivens and improves the street scape, with an eye pleasing alternative to the bleak emptiness of vacant storefronts, a result of the economic downturn. Too many empty stores for an extended period seems to send a negative message to the whole business district. Perception is powerful. Transforming vacant storefronts into free exhibition spaces for artists enables the property owners to present their spaces more attractively and may even be a means of attracting people to take a look at the space for a business venture. Adding art to empty spaces brings art to people who might not otherwise be exposed to art, thereby expanding the art community. It seems to be a win-win for the artist, the art community and the storefront owners, as well as enhancing the view for the remaining businesses operating in the area.

I would encourage other artists to look into this type of project in their local area. These alternative art display spaces give artists unique opportunities to showcase their creativity in free exhibition spaces, garner public recognition for their work and generate sales. Some things that the artist should consider are inspecting the proposed areas to make sure they get good traffic and lighting and make sure the building and neighboring buildings appear to look respectable and not run-down or unkempt. As with all art display venues, you have to decide if you would be proud to have your work displayed in any particular venue. You don't want the venue to devalue your art. Take a look at the security issues involved and how they will be addressed. I feel good about the location I was given for my art. Hearing comments like, "I see your art everywhere," is good and raises your creditability as an artist.

I just wish I had thought about asking the project manager to make my space and the other art spaces available to be open to the public for a pre-determined special day event; a one day open-studio type event or art walk at the respective storefronts. The artists could agree to host their space for a special one day event at which the public would have a chance to meet the artist, see them in the act of creating and get to know the artist. The publicized event would attract more traffic downtown and give visitors the chance to get up close and personal with the artist and the art.

This kind of art walk event would present security issues for the building owners and the artists because the buildings would be unlocked for that event. Even so, I think these issues could be addressed easily if such events were scheduled on regular business days. As an artist, I face some of those same security issues in other public display venues. Yet, having to be responsible for the building itself and liability issues that could arise from that is a little scarier for the artist. Perhaps the realty agents and/or storefront owners could consider it to be an open house day for exposure of the properties to prospective business owners. Something to explore, I think. Such events would bring more traffic and exposure to storefront spaces and the existing businesses in the area on those days; a plus for all the businesses in the downtown area. It would give the artists a chance to get direct feedback from those who admire their art. We artists thrive on opportunities to interact with our viewers.

I hope this project continues in the Roseburg area for as long as there continues to be a need for it. Artists interested in participating can contact Virginia Elandt, Planning Intern at the Community Development Department of the city of Roseburg, 541-440-1177 or visit the website by clicking here

SIMPLIFIED COLOR MIXING FOR OILS & ACRYLICS: Sandi Whetzel, Colorist,, Takes the Mystery out of Mixing Vibrant Chromas

2010-07-08T10:42:00.000-07:00

Learn an economical system for consistently mixing the colors you want, while avoiding trial-and-error mishaps. Whether you work in oils or acrylics, beginner through advanced are encouraged to participate in these hands-on exercises to create vivid chromas, complementary neutrals, lively blacks and various flesh tones to suit your individual style. We'll explore color without pressure to perform. With over 13 years of instructing and painting experience, colorist Sandi Whetzel takes the mystery out of color mixing. Raise your paintings to the next level with eye-pleasing color choices.

ALL PAINTS ARE PROVIDED for this class. Just bring a canvas tablet pad, a brush, palette knife, (if you have one) and mixing palette or shallow glass baking dish 9x13 or larger to mix colors. Call Sandi Whetzel at 541-825-3525 for details.

Total cost for the class is $49, payable to Umpqua Community College. To register, visit or call UCC at 541-440-7744 and reference class #10316. The class will meet Wednesday and Thursday, July 14 & 15, 2010 from 9:30 am - 12:30 pm in the Roseburg Senior Center located at 621 Madrone St., Roseburg, OR.

My art is brimming with bold, vivid, clean, beautiful colors. I learned to mix all my own colors from a very talented artist and instructor who became my mentor, Bonnie Hill of Roseburg, OR. After seeing her students struggle to mix clean predictable colors, Bonnie spent many hours exploring pigments to find the cleanest, strongest pigments to to mix the purest, most intense chromas of all twelve colors of the color wheel spectrum. This method makes it possible for students to achieve universal results every time.

Bonnie and I use only eight pure pigments. This is the most economical and most efficient way to go. We don't have to lug around too many tubes of paint, some of which might only be used rarely. The specific pigments are the least toxic versions of the gambit of pigments to choose from. We can make virtually almost any color, including rich, beautiful, harmonious blacks and any flesh tones desired. Another bonus with this method of mixing is that we always know which partiular pigments were used to make all of the colors of the spectrum. This is invaluable when going back into a painting to rework it and match the original colors.

I am looking forward to meeting and working with anyone living close enough to attend this class. Students had a great time and learned a lot the first time I instructed it last summer. If you can't attend this class I do cover the same material briefly in my regular classes, Painting with Oils and Acrylics, Fall, Winter and Spring Terms. For information about those classes contact UCC or the class schedule for each term.

Happy Hour : A Contemporary Abstract Painting of Cavorting Wine Goblets by Sandi Whetzel

2010-06-12T13:06:00.001-07:00

When it comes to wine, why should the imbiber have all the pleasure? Shouldn't the goblet that contains and delivers the wine to the drinker get in on some of the pleasure, too, by becoming intoxicated and reveling in the moment? I approached the creating of this painting with that thought in mind.

I have some tall, elegant cone-shaped goblets that became the inspiration for the shapes of the goblets before they came under the influence of the effects of the wine they were to hold. I had fun sketching the goblets, purposefully exaggerating their shapes with curvy contortions to suggest their dance-like cavorting. The idea of letting the center goblet get so tipsy that it started to spill some of it's wine contents was an afterthought to the original sketch, but I succumbed to it. The addition of the flying, spiraling cork and the oversize bubbles effervescing from the goblets added even more whimsy and merriment to the scene. I chose the stimulating palette of reds to help convey the giddy, gaiety of the painting. The curvy strokes echoing the movement of the cavorting goblets added to the lively, playful flavor of the piece. Even before it was completed I knew the title of the painting had to be Happy Hour.

Inventing paintings from my imagination is challenging but rewarding, as I learned from the first wine painting I dreamed up to fit an imposed "wine on the vine" theme. That painting became one of my most successful paintings and inspired me to use my imagination more. It was the beginning of a wine series. That was a great learning experience and showed me what real creativity is. Real creativity is having to come up with something from nothing other than what you can imagine in your mind to illustrate an idea.

I'll be displaying Happy Hour at the annual Umpqua Valley Arts ARTrageous Summer Arts Festival the last weekend of June and the Umpqua Valley Wine, Art and Music Festival in September, 2010.

Sandi Whetzel's Art Displayed in 12 Cubed: A Small Works Exhibititon and Art In Bloom Exhibit at Umpqua Valley Arts Association, Roseburg, OR

2010-05-04T18:52:00.000-07:00

I am happy to have one of my art works, Succulent Delicacy, juried in to 12 Cubed: A Small Works Exhibition at Umpqua Valley Arts, 1624 West Harvard Avenue, Roseburg, OR. Artists living in Oregon were invited to submit up to three entries in any media, except photography. Framed art could be no bigger than 12" in any direction. A total of 140 images were submitted for consideration. Ken Roth, a well known regional artist from Central Oregon, juried all the submissions to decide which entries would be accepted for the exhibit. He selected 65 pieces by 45 artists for the exhibit in the main gallery, the Hallie Brown Ford Gallery. Roth is a Central Oregon artist who is currently featured in the Guild Sourcebook of Architectural and Interior Art and in Art Business News, June 2009, as an Emerging Artist.

I'm also proud to have three paintings included in the Art in Bloom exhibit in the corridors of the same building during the same time frame. All these paintings are by the students in my art instructor/mentor's class, as well as three paintings by the instructor, Bonnie Hill.

The opening reception for the events was well attended on April 30, 2010. The exhibits will hang for six weeks, concluding on June 11th.

Tip for the Day: How to Get Rid of IncrediMail's MyStart Page

2010-05-04T11:48:00.000-07:00

I have been using IncrediMail's free version as my email client for several years and really like it. Recently IncrediMail gave me the option to upgrade to their free version Incredimail 2 which has many cool things added to the program. When I upgraded I saw that the upgrade would make IncrediMail's MyStart page my new homepage. I wasn't sure I wanted that because I like FireFox as my homepage. As a novice pc user I timidly chose the advanced option of upgrading to make sure that I could control my homepage options. Well, some where in the process, I neglected to uncheck the box that makes MyStart my new homepage and MyStart became my new homepage instead of Firefox.

I googled " how to get rid of Incredimail's MyStart homepage" and found all sorts of complicated procedures for removing MyStart which were way too technical for me. I read comments from perplexed users that stated their efforts to remove Incredimail's My Start were fruitless because whatever they did the MyStart home page kept coming back. Some "wanna be" tech advisers commented that MyStart was a virus. I was pretty sure that wasn't true because IncrediMail makes money by selling their more deluxe version of the email application and they would be shooting themselves in the foot if MyStart was a virus. I even read that the only full proof way of getting rid of MyStart was to uninstall IncrediMail. I didn't want to give up IncrediMail just to get rid of the MyStart homepage option.

I decided to email IncrediMail technical support and I received a fairly timely response which was easy to implement. I got rid of IncrediMail's MyStart and restored FireFox as my home page. So far it is working swell. For anyone who does not wish to make IncrediMail's MyStart your homepage, and would like to set something else as your homepage, please follow these steps from IncrediMail's incredible support team:

1. Go to your desired home page.
2. Once the page is loaded, select the 'Tools' drop-down menu and select 'Internet Options'.
3. Click the 'Use Current' button to set the web site you are currently viewing as your home page.
4. Click the 'OK' button.

In addition, to prevent IncrediMail from alerting you regarding the change you have made in the future, please do the following:

1. Open IncrediMail.
2. Select the 'Tools' drop-down menu and select 'Options'.
3. In the window that opens, click the 'Security' tab and uncheck the 'Notify me about changes in my homepage settings' checkbox.
4. Click the 'OK' button.

I think the second part of instructions regarding the 'tools' option within IncrediMail might be very important in keeping the home page you want. In my search for a solution I read that a person had tried resetting the internet options of their desired homepage as described above, but the change was not permanent. MyStart kept returning as the homepage. Maybe telling Incredimail not to notify you about changes in your homepage settings is crucial to keeping the homepage you desire. I hope somebody finds this information helpful. If so, commenting about this post will be appreciated. I normally use my blog more as a portfolio of my art, but will occasionally share tips I have found to be helpful just because it seems like the right thing to do.

Umpqua Valley Winegrowers Association held its 40th "Greatest of the Grape" March 20, 2010

2010-03-21T17:14:00.000-07:00

I exhibited my art at the Umpqua Valley Winegrowers' 40th annual Greatest of the Grape on March 20, 2010. This was the third time I have participated in that event. The first time I exhibited was in 2004 because I had submitted a painting to the organization to compete for the poster promoting that event. That painting was Wine on the Vine which illustrated their theme very well. It was not selected to promote the event but I sold it to an individual a few months later for a very good price. That painting was the start of a whole series of wine-themed paintings. I enjoyed the challenge of coming up with an image to illustrate that theme. That impetus stoked my creativity. It forced me to dream up an idea from my imagination to illustrate the imposed theme; a painting that I would not have attempted without taking up that challenge. Prior to that, I had not thought about painting wine-related subjects. Little did I know how involved I was to become with all things "wine".

I attended the Greatest of the Grape again in 2006 when my painting, Uplifting Spirits, (pictured here), became the image for the promotional poster illustrating their theme of "Over 100 Cork Poppin' Years". I exhibited at this event again this year. This time I sold a high quality giclee reproduction on canvas of the Wine on the Vine painting to the married couple who had also purchased my Uplifting Spirits original at auction during the 2006 Greatest of the Grape. That was exciting because now they are "collectors" of my work.

During the evening of this event I met many people who were interested in my work and I was even approached by some wineries to have my work displayed in their wine tasting rooms and gift shops. One wine representative suggested I print my art on higher end apparel. I have been working on that project ever since and hopefully, I will be posting about that soon.

Artist, Sandi Whetzel Featured at SUVA Gallery: Gala Grand Opening Celebration in Canyonville, OR, March 5, 2010

2010-03-03T22:36:00.000-08:00

SUVA Gallery, (South Umpqua Valley Arts) is the new tourist attraction located in downtown Canyonville, Oregon at 525 Main Street. The First Friday Artist Reception and Grand Opening Celebration of SUVA Gallery is Friday evening, March 5, 2010, from 5-8 pm at the SUVA Gallery. Refreshments, Hors d'oeuvres and live jazz music will be served against the backdrop of amazing art by some of the area's local artisans. This is a great opportunity to take in the art and meet the artists, while celebrating the opening of the gallery. SUVA Gallery's normal business hours are 10 am-5:30 pm, Tuesdays - Saturdays. For information, call 541-839-4282.

The Bead Mecca, next door to SUVA Gallery, will also be open the night of SUVA's opening and is having a 25% off sale. Bead Mecca is a retail Bead Store committed to providing quality beads and beading supplies with superior customer service. They offer a creative and supportive environment for learning the art of beading and jewelry making with free tutorials and beading tips. You can visit Bead Mecca's website here . That makes two storefronts brimming with creativity and curiosity, side by side on Main Street, Canyonville.

A number of artists are represented in SUVA Gallery. Among them is Sandi Whetzel of Days Creek, just 10 minutes from the gallery. As you walk into the gallery, Whetzel's vividly colored abstract works nearly pop off the wall opposite the entry door. Her current exhibit is in keeping with the focus of the gallery: contemporary craft that makes you feel good--Colorful, whimsical and nature inspired. Her current exhibit is all of that and more. Anchoring her graceful, playful abstract series of dancing trees is a a larger painting of a curvaceous trio of trees swaying in the wind; rooted in a brilliantly colored swell of earth and silhouetted against a scarlet blazing sunset. It lives up to its title, Earth, Wind, Fire. It is a painting that stimulates your senses.

Sandi is excited to be involved with SUVA Gallery which is practically in her back yard. She will be hosting the gallery on the first Saturday of each month as her schedule permits in between other exhibitions. "I always enjoy meeting the art viewers, getting their feedback about my work and answering any questions they have. This will be a unique opportunity to meet new people and be involved with the sales process in a completely different venue. How many artists get to be part of the gallery experience? I hope to learn a lot in the process," Whetzel stated. "It is exciting to think that Canyonville may become an even more popular hub of tourism. Canyonville needs a gallery to entertain visitors from Seven Feathers Casino and RV Resorts that border our town and to contribute to the culture of our community. This is a great opportunity to help Canyonville prosper, " Sandi continues.

Canyonville is a small historic town in Oregon, located 98 miles North of the California border and 25 miles South of Roseburg on the I-5 Corridor With easy access off and on the freeway, Canyonville is the perfect stopping point for travelers. Stroll down Main Street through the historic and picturesque downtown and shop for antiques and gifts, or visit Pioneer Park. The quaint 4 block downtown has a nice mix of retail and service businesses, including a Post Office, Bank and restaurants. Canyonville is a pedestrian and bicycle friendly community. The charming city is also home to Seven Feathers Casino and RV Resort. Seven Feathers is a luxurious resort, Indian casino and versatile conference center. The RV Resort offers a quiet and pristine setting for RV guests, located in Southern Oregon's beautiful "Land of the Umpqua".

How to Mix Clean, Pure Colors in Oils and Acrylics: Colorist, Sandi Whetzel Revals the Nitty-Gritty of How She Takes the Mystery Out of Color Mixing

2010-02-19T22:37:00.000-08:00

My original intent in this post was to generate interest in an upcoming color mixing class scheduled for July, 2010 to be held in Roseburg, Oregon. While I'm at it, I may as well divulge some nitty-gritty details about how I mix colors later in this post.

You will learn an easy, economical system for consistently mixing the colors you want for the broadest range possible, while avoiding trial-and-error mishaps. Oil and acrylic painters beginner through advanced are encouraged to participate in this hands-on opportunity to mix accurate, vivid chromas, complementary neutrals, lively blacks and an endless variety of flesh tones to suit individual painting styles.

With over thirteen years of instructing and painting experience as a colorist, I will take the mystery out of color mixing in this two day class. ALL PAINTS AND SUBJECT MATTER WILL BE SUPPLIED WITH YOUR CLASS REGISTRATION FEE. Details for registering will be disclosed in the Umpqua College Summer Class Schedule around the first of May, 2010.

Now for the nitty-gritty specifics of fool-proof color mixing. My artist mentor, Bonnie Hill of Roseburg, OR, has shared her method of color mixing with me. After seeing her students struggle to mix clean predictable colors she spent many hours exploring pigments to find the purest, most intense pigments to mix the purest, most intense chromas of all twelve colors of the color wheel spectrum. This makes it possible for students to achieve universal results every time.

I use only eight pure pigments; a warm and a cool of each of the three primary colors, (red, blue and yellow), Titanium White and a transparent Indian Yellow. This is the most economical and most efficient way to go. We don't have to lug around too many tubes of paint, some of which might only be used rarely. We can make virtually almost any color, including rich beautiful, harmonious blacks and any flesh tones desired. Another bonus is that we always know which particular pigments we used to make all of the colors of the spectrum. This is invaluable when going back into a painting to rework it.

Besides the white and transparent yellow already mentioned for oils, the other specific warm pigments are: Cadmium Red Light, Cadmium Yellow Medium and Pthalo Blue. The specific cool pigments for oils are Alizarin Crimson, Lemon or Zinc Yellow and Ultramarine Blue. In acrylics some of the pigment names are different. I happen to prefer Golden brand Acrylics. The warm yellow in Golden Acrylics is Diarylide Yellow, the cool yellow is Cadmium Yellow Primrose and the warm blue is Thalo Blue Green Shade. You should find the other colors in acrylics by the same name as in oils. Different brands of acrylics will have the equivalents of the eight specific pigments. (You may email me at the link to the right of this post for more specifics of color names in particular brands of acrylics.)

I've listed all the specific pigments I use, but for the real nuts and bolts on how to mix the purest colors of the color spectrum using these purest of pigments you'll need to read my next post about color mixing simplified. I hope to get around to that before too long.

Succulence, Too! A Painting So Three Dimensional It Casts its Own Shadow on Itself!

2010-02-06T00:01:00.001-08:00

Succulence, Too! 30x30 Acrylic
Originally uploaded by sandiwhetzel
Succulence, Too! is the companion to an earlier painting, Succulence! in which I really went three dimensional with one leaf that actually physically extended outward from the canvas. I really got carried away with this sequel. The two lower leaves actually come out of the canvas and fold up to themselves as they near their tips. The biggest leaf in the center actually folds down and dangles free of the canvas, casting its own real shadow below it on the painting.

First I poured the shape of the three dimensional leaves with a co-opolymer pour on a sheet of glass. After the poured leaves dried on the glass sheet I pulled them off the glass and glued them to the canvas, shaping them into the folding positions. I allowed the end of the leaf in the center to dangle free from the canvas. Then I applied molding paste texture with a palette knife to a number of the leaves. The glazes of color came last. The two large three dimensional folding leaves near the bottom cast their own real shadows on the leaves at the very base of the plant. This delectable succulent outdoes its predecessor in succulence!