"Field of Joy" is underway!

ArtPrize 7 is on the horizon and I have been working on my submission "Field of Joy" which will be on display in Grand Rapids, Michigan at DeVos Place September 23 thru October 11. For those of you not familiar with ArtPrize, it is a competition that attracts over 1500 artist entries, 500,000 visitors and awards over $400,000 in prize money. The prizes are awarded by public vote and by a jury. You can get more info at ArtPrize.org

My painting is in process and I can hardly sleep for wanting to paint. It is my largest to date at 5' x 16'. It incorporates processes and materials that I have worked on for years and I cannot wait to show the world... or, at least the Midwest!

I have been posting my progress regularly on Instagram where you can find me at #kimrhoney. Those posts also appear on my FaceBook Fan Page under Kim Rhoney. 

The work barely fits in our great room!

This first phase is all underpainting for the wax and knife work. The underpainting allows me to finalize the composition and begin to determine values and perspective. Sometimes I tint the surface first and then draw my subject, but this piece is so large and complex that I felt this route would give me a better result. Next week, I will begin heavy paint application of color that will be closer to the finished product using painting knives to apply oil paint which is mixed with cold wax medium (bees wax & resin). Stay tuned and thank you for your interest in my work.

Kindly,

Kim

Maumee River Commission - "Maumee Stroll"

This piece is truly monumental at five feet square. It was made for the wall that it hangs on and reflects the grounds between the house and the river. The Sycamore trees are painted with silver leaf in between the layers of cold wax and paint. This process was conceived during an earlier painting that I posted with this project in mind. I was really pleased with the result. Take a look at the close up to see some of the playful sgraffito (drawing back in to reveal the lower color) that I felt added a little needed whimsy.

A Trip to Tuscany Remembered

This commission started out with a college friend and a handful of vacation photos from a special trip with her daughter. I do a fair number of commissions, but rarely work from others trip pic's. Fortunately I had been to this region of Italy and felt like I had an authentic response to the subject. I could close my eyes and remember the quality of the light. A very magical place! Thank you Kari for the opportunity!

 The painting measured 30" x 24" without the frame.

Several photos were referenced and the sketch is a bit of a montage. Here is the progression of the piece:

Here is a view of the installation:

On my easel - a little side work for Santa!

It is a special surprise for someone. I love being part of a secret and helping to spread a little joy! 

Getting ready for my Open Studio Event June 7 and 8!

Here is a little glimpse into my process. The ipad has an image of Pink Thistle that I photographed last summer along Stoney Creek Road just a few miles from my house.
The first image shows the subject after I have sketched my composition and washed in a cool red tint. Next come many layers of oil and cold wax applied with brushes and then finished with the knife. I plan to finish this one today...and yes, there are bee's much to my kids' delight!

Wrapping up: Loose Bees

I love the looseness of these little guys! It's time to pull them off my easel before I over work them. The cold wax makes my knife painting really fun.

Nest Series continues...

The background color in this piece was inspired by my 8 year old who said "Momma, your nests are all floating in the air, you should put in some grass or leaves." So imagine these greens are grass or leaves.  Below, there is a close-up that shows the surface texture. I have been adding Cold Wax Medium to my paint which gives a little stiffer body to the paint and really enhances the knife strokes.

Also notice the coffee from Milan Coffee Works who just opened shop in our little town. MCW is a nano-beanery that roasts fresh beans in small batches. You can buy brewed cups or fresh roasted beans. It is a very cool place located at 508 County St., Milan Mi next to Original Gravity Brewing. You can find them on Facebook.

Robin's Nest Progress

This is a really fun subject to paint. The nest is very conducive to the texture that the knife yields.

Lelanau County September Vines

It was a warm September week in northern Michigan in my studio these last few weeks. Ah, the ability of art to transport us!!

This commission was inspired by a wine enthusiast couple  from southeastern Michigan. We both shared memories of Lelanau County vineyards and in my mind, Lake Michigan was destined to be part if the piece. Can't wait to hang it in their home! 

Size: 40" x 60"