If your looking for inspiration I have the place for you.  Carolyn Guild has an amazing array of black and white photography.  The patterns, textures, and lights all come together in Carolyn Guilds photographs to inspire and ignite the imagination and love of the natural and phenomenal.

Black and White photography can be one of the most finicky medias out there.   To much light, and your photograph is washed out, to little light, and you have a beautiful black, well lets face it, you wont be happy.  But in Carolyn’s work you can see that neither of these two issues seem to plague her at all.  The natural spires of mountain tip that peer out of the snow, and the bubble glass textures of icicles that grace the edges of plant, and structure are just a couple of the amazing examples of Carolyn’s work.  I invite you to take the time to visit her site.

My personal favorites begin with, “Quiet Storm”.  The way the mountain just seems to appear out of the wisps of clouds, and blinding sun soaked snows is almost mystical.  Just knowing that at any moment the view will all disappear again, is enough to want to hold onto it as long as possible.   Islands of trees only serve to remind you that you are still attached to land, and not floating away in the mass of white.  And there is this urge to share such a beautiful view with everyone you can.  (This photograph can be found in the portfolio ”photography in high places”.  It is the first photograph.)

Then we have, ” Snowpatch”.  This mountain seems to come so close to touching the stars that you can just imagine only seeing this through the eyes of the extreme adventures and maybe only the eagles.  The wrap of cloud that brings the background from it’s cold fingers in to comfort is a beautiful compliment to Carolyn’s work.  Add to that the vastness of the snow field in the fore ground, and suddenly you have art.  Like Ansel Adams, and Charles C. Ebbets.  You can see the “signature”.  (Snowpatch can also be found in Photography in High Places.  It is the 5th photograph in the series.)

Now we have, “The Clear Spirits”.  These are a group of photographs showing the shy yet beautiful nature of ice.  The textures of frozen water are compelling, and stirring.  They inspire me to go out and find similar ice sculptures, for my own photography.  They might inspire you to imagine other worlds, or fantastical realms.  Maybe even wood sprites would be a part of your imaginings.  What ever the case, I’m sure you can see what I am referring to when I mention the “signature” that is prevalent in all of Carolyn Guild’s work.  I know that I want to see more, and will be spending more time here on her site.  I hope you will to. (The “Clear Spirits” can be found in the portfolio “The Romance of Nature”.  There are several in this series.  I invite you to spend some time here, and throughout the rest of the gallery.)

For more artist highlights, or to see my work, make sure you take a minute to browse here.  artbystaci.com.  You can also find me on Face Book at artbystaci.  

There is something to be said about the “Great Outdoors”.  The magnificent greens, blues and bronzes all lend to the beauty of the open spaces, climbing vistas, and outstretched sky’s.  And that is just the landscape.  What beautiful landscape would be complete with out  at least the thought of creatures, both great and small, lumbering or waddling through the grass, shrubs and trees?

Luke Frazier show cases his talent in the many creatures that he paints.  From the Lumbering Bull Moose to the quiet and sneaky virtues of the fox.  The colors seem to dance together in their own way.  This artist makes effort and talent seem effortless.  The paintings are so endearing that they draw in the viewer, and do not want to let go.

Imagine being able to stand only a few feet away from one of these magestic creatures and not being in any danger.  To stand next to one of these beautiful paintings, will be the absolute best way to accomplish that.

To prove my point, lets start with “Old Timer“.  This beautiful Bull Moose, in all of his aged glory, seems to know that the best wallows are at the edges of the still waters.  Where the grasses grow the thickest under the waters surface.  He is in no rush to get to his destination, simply because there are few creatures that would dare bother him.  Even the giant lily pads seem to make way for this massive creature.

Next we have, “Call of the North“.  I love the way the light graces this Bull Elk.  The efforts that this elk will go through to show off for all the cows in the area are no small feat.  Defending territory, and holding the right to carry on his lineage all will take their toll.  But as a proud Bull, he will do his best to hold fast till the end of the season.  There is a quality to Mr. Frazier’s work that embodies the meaning of life in the Rocky Mountains.

Then we have, “Soaking it Up“.  Who could pass up this awesome sight.  Imagine being able to lay out and soak up the sun with out any other care in the world.  The impressive agility and beautiful white fur give the Mountain Goat a unique niche in the Rocky Mountains.

Luke Frazier has been able to capture, through his talent, a natural life that is often times only seen through the lens of the photographer.  It is so easy to become tangled in the scenes.  To lose yourself.

Finally, we can’t forget about that sly little fox.  ”Sounds of the forest“, in this painting he looks easily found.  But what the painting can’t betray, is how quickly this same fox could slip in to the undergrowth never to be seen again.  Even with that bright fur, the speed at which these beautiful creatures can hide is amazing.   Mr. Frazier’s painting shows off the bright colors, and cunning that IS the fox.  A wonderful tribute for an amazing creature.

I invite you to make the time to really look at all of Mr. Frazier’s available work.  I’m sure you’ll agree that all his work brings us a little closer to the wilder side of life.  From the large seemingly carefree grazers and foragers, to the strong and constantly hunting predators.

To see more artists, or to see my work, please visit me here at artbystaci.com.  You can also find me on Face Book at artbystaci.   

Aaron Peterson, a new artist, this one from Michigan, has peaked my interest.  The color, and vibrancy that are a part of each of his photographs, is un-nerving and at the same time exciting.  Right, yes, I said un-nerving.  Odd choice for sure.  But I say it because, I can immediately see myself standing on the shoreline of the Marquette beach, or shivering while trying to get the color captured just right in the snow lined trees.

I fell quickly in love with the bright and seemingly unforgiving colors of the sunsets.  Then had almost a change of heart for the brilliant greens that make up the forest and waterfall edges.  I’m sure your going to see what I am talking about, within just a few minutes of viewing this beautiful photography.

We’ll start with, the “Marquette Lighthouse”.  (Unfortunately there are no direct links.  But I will do my best to describe the photograph, and then direct you to the correct area on his website.)  The hues of red, orange and purple, do their best to intimidate the viewer.  Their striking colors, and contrast against the Michigan sky, could be a warning, or a romantic interlude between day and night.  The colors hold order, only to the silhouetted lighthouse.  And any who have had the opportunity to witness such a beautiful sight with their own eyes, can attest, that it shouldn’t be missed, if it can be helped.   (Once at Aaron Petersons Website,  Click on Galleries, and then, “Marquette Michigan Art Prints”.  This photograph is the first one in that list.)

Another one of Aaron’s photographs that really grabs my attention is, “The Devils Island, Sandstone sculptures”.  The dark colors, and the contrasting blue come together to show off the fascinating and mysterious side of nature.  The strength of each of the tendrils that supports this mount seem to be testing the waters that they sit in.  (Go to “Galleries” and then Apostle Islands Stock Photography.  This is located near the bottom of this gallery page.)

Finally, there is the “Maple Leaf”.  It sits quietly and tenuously in the flaking bark of the white birch.  The beautiful scarred red of the leaf holds the viewers attention easily.  The precarious position will last only until the next breeze teases the leaf from its roost.  The bark of the tree brings a sense of comfort.  As if protecting the leaf.  The bright red seems oddly passive.  Both are a beautiful combination.  ( This photograph is found in the gallery, “Fall Color Art Prints”.  It is found in the first third of the gallery.)

I’m sure you’ll agree, there are many many beautiful portraits, and landscapes in Aaron Peterson’s galleries.  The love of space, and nature really shine through lending to the artists signiture.  If you ever have the opportunity to visit this beautiful place, you’ll be able to compare the beauty of nature with these elegant photographs.  I’m sure you’ll see the similarities are uncanny.

To see other artist highlights, or view my work, click artbystaci.com.  You can also find me on Face Book, at artbystaci.

This is a little bit of a change in artists, but, I was immediately attracted to the new and unusual.  There is a mysterious quality to Nathan Florence’s paintings.  And I think you’ll agree, they really grab your attention.  The use of color and shape come together in a unique way, that emboldens the viewer.

The first portrait, “Sleeper“, has a mystical or dream like quality.  I love the idea of being able to “see” the dreams and wants of a child.  As if a whisper of the child’s inner most thoughts will give us the secrets he holds most dear.  Or is it that the starry atmosphere makes us believe we are capable of reaching out to our inner most hopes and wishes, in a way that will make them tangible?  Which ever way you look at it, I’m sure you will appreciate the provoked images that lie just beyond your fingertips.

The next portrait, “Gardening at Night“, with it’s dark yet luxurious mood brings romance, and passion into light.  The reds and dark shades of blue are sensual against the skin of the figure.  The combination of colors and textures adds to the romance.  To the quiet and sultry nights.  This figure IS the dream of many people, both male and female.  Either because they desire what they cannot be, or what they cannot have.

Finally in “Just Like Heaven“, You are, or should I say, I am over come buy the beauty and night time elegance of the southern style garden party.  I love the thought of being enchanted with an evening of classical music, and dining with friends, or a lover.  An atmosphere of violins and dancing, just what the doctor ordered.

I love the uniqueness, the quality, and the attention to the mood.  There is always something new to see with each new painting, from the contemporary, to the whimsical, and fanciful.  I believe this artist will have at least one painting that will speak to you.  But I am sure it will be more than one.  I invite you to see what else Nathan Florence has in store for you.  I know you will see a renewed romantic in yourself.

I encourage you to spend some time on the rest of my website, artbystaci.com.  I would love to hear from you.  You can also find me on Face Book at artbystaci.  Tell me what you think.

If you want a view of the American Midwest and West, I’m not sure you’ll need to look farther than Joni Flint.  Just the first page of her website show cases an understanding and love of this life style.  From the young girls and boys learning the ropes, to the talented handlers and riders that move livestock along the pastures, and prairies, you can see a story that has been built over a life time of experience.

In this first painting, “Binder“, a team of black draft horses pulls hard on a cart to bring in the wheat from the field.   The colors are vivid and wonderfully combined.  The light brilliantly shows off these beautiful, dark beasts of burden.  Their cadence seems effortless, but as anyone who works with these animals knows, it takes time, patience, and training.

Next there is “Going for a swim“.  This sweet painting of a mother goose and her little goslings reminds me of the easier times of life.  The times when you could spend a lazy day next to the neighborhood pond, as a child, chasing the frogs, and occasionally throwing in a line to catch that one elusive fish.  When nature was refreshed with the new year, and spring.  When everything seemed to have a fresh start, whether it needed it or not.

Finally, Joni Flint has, ‘Gaylene“.  This is an action packed painting.  If you’ve ever been to a rodeo, you know the pace of the barrel racers.  They live for the run.  They run like they’re chasing the wind.  I love the strong colors in this painting.  They translate the pace to the viewer.  The feeling is well established, you can hear the crowds cheering this rider on.  You can see the horse feeding on their cheers.  It’s a beautiful tribute to a lifestyle common to the Midwest and West.

The appeal of the “West”, the cowboys, and trick riders, the lifestyle in general, is something that appeals to a wide range of audience.  Joni’s paintings remind me of the romance of this life.  Anyone who lives this life knows how tough it is.  I think Joni Flint has captured the romance.  No matter which you think, I know you’ll love her work.

For more of my work, please check out the rest of my website, artbystaci.  You can also find me on Face Book.

Today I have found a great artist.  His paintings show a confidence that often is not the first thing seen by the observer with other artists.  Paul Ferney, has a body of work that seems to tell a story.  So often a story is romantic, or time encapsulating.  But not always both at the same time.  I believe that Mr. Ferney has found a beautiful combination for both.

For example, this first picture, “Pacific Sunset“, shows off the waning lights in a fashion known for “striking a mood”.  I love the way the sun in this painting, has that last Hoo rah, before slipping behind the treeline for the night.

Next we have a painting called “Golden Signs“.  The beautiful trees draped in gold are one of the major calling cards for fall here in Utah.  Some years we go with barely any color, while others are magnificent like this painting.  These beautiful Elms, or maybe they are Cottonwoods, are a beautiful example of the exciting last show before winter envelops the landscape.

Finally this painting, “Untitled“, of fields and mountains, shows of the new beginnings of spring.  The mountains are beginning to throw off their veil of white, and prepare for the coming flowers, and new life.  Soon new little creature will take their first timid steps toward growth, and new cycles of life.  I love the way this painting in particular show cases, the majesty of the mountains coupled with the efficiency of a prosperous land.  Working in harmony with the seasons, can sometimes be the most challenging aspect of life on the land.  But the little moments, the breaks, and the stopping points of life allow us all to take in scenes like this.  I hope you enjoy Paul Ferney’s work as much as I do.  Please take the time to visit.  And say “Hello”!

If you enjoy this work, I invite you to look around my site.  artbystaci.com.  It’s a passion of mine.  Don’t forget to share.  You can also find me on Face Book.

By now I’m sure you know that I have a special affinity for my home state, Utah.  Having lived here most of my life, I have had the opportunity to see a side of this state, that the average tourist is not privaledged to see.

This is key when I am looking at artists that showcase my state.  Sooo, with that in mind…

Todays artist is Bret Edge.  The style and warmth that surround his portraits define Mr. Edge as an artist.  His “signature” is obvious.  Now for those of you who don’t know the reference.  A “signature” is not the pen in the corner of the painting, or portrait.  It is the style which is unique to the artist.  It is something that you notice right away when viewing their work.  Sometimes you can immediately pin point that “thing” sometimes, it’s a feeling.

Rather than linking specific portraits or landscapes this time, I thought I could speak specifically to my favorites and then direct you to Mr. Edge’s website.

To start, I’d like to talk about, “Horseshoe Bend sunrise, AZ”.

The warm colors, and cool waters give the viewer an impressive insentive to make their way down the steep slopes and cliffs toward the refreshing waters. The perspective reminds me of all the times, as a kid, that I spent playing in the sandbox making my own canyons and cliffs.  Epic adventures that could last all day.  This photo, has a way of taking me back to those carefree times.  When adventure only needed to be as big as your own back yard.  Now as an adult, this IS my back yard.

If you go to Bret Edge’s Portfolio and then landscapes, you’ll see this photograph as number three.

Next is “Landscape arch and Juniper Frame”.  The beautiful warm colors.  They are a favorite for me.  Perhaps that’s one of the biggest reasons I love my state so much.  The orange, yellow, and reds that make up a significant portion of the southern parts of the state are so warm, and penetrating of the soul.  They are images that stay with you, even without a camera.  Then add to the reds and warm colors the cool colors in the Juniper pines.  The twisted ancient bark and limbs of each of these trees is unique.  Their scarred exteriors have stories that only the wind knows.  The same wind that has carved it’s face into the sands of each of these ancient dunes and beaches.

On Bret Edge’s portfolio, go to “landscapes”, and then photo number 6.

Finally there is, “Virga Above the Boneville Desert”.  The cracked salt laden flats dried and shriviled in the sun are a common sight in this stretch of Utah.  But what isn’t necessarily common are the tendrils of rain promising a sound drenching, only to pass by without any hope of quenching the eternity of thirst.  The dust blown stretches of weeds eeking out a living on moisture only a few months of the year keep wary travelers from venturing to far into this unlikely place of life.  The dual between life and death, is played out daily in these deserts of Utah.  To capture this dance, amazing.

Go to Bret Edge’s website, into his portfolio.  Click on “Black and White”, and then Photo number 3.  This particular photo is the second in a set. 

For more information about my work, feel free to visit me at home on artbystaci.com.  You can also look me up on Face Book at artbystaci.

This is an artist who’s work was introduced to me late last year.  The detail and story of his work sings through in ever brush stroke.  From both a spiritual, and from a political aspect, Mr. McNaughton’s work is inspirational, thoughtful, and thought provoking.  I can’t wait to share his work with you.

This first painting, is a beautiful rendition of one of Utah’s popular mountains.  “Timpanogos Shadow“, shows off the beauty of this particular mountain.  The snow capped peaks are a beautiful site to any visitor.  The high cliffs, and steep slopes seem impenetrable, and hold secrets yet to be discovered.  To be blessed with the ability to capture this mountain, and it’s many secrets in a painting, is a magnificent gift.  I am grateful that Mr. McNaughton has chosen to share his talents with us.

Next we can see “Catching the Light“.  The greens and blues that grace this canvas, seem to come to life as easily as you and I breathe.  The light graces each leaf, and brings into view a myriad of creatures that remain accessible only in the details.  Having lived here all of my life, I believe the snow and low standing clouds serve to make the mountains stand taller.  Larger than life they rest majestically above the peaks of the clouds.  Once you witness the beauty captured in Mr. McNaughtons mountains, you eye will finally settle on the fisherman diligently trying to catch that last elusive fish.  This painting, like so many in John McNaughtons collection catch your eye and then reel you in to see what else might be there.

Now we have “Golden View“.  This beautiful fall portrait shows off the extreme color that is so prolific here in the Utah mountains.  The aspens sway and “sing” in the wind.  They remain a bluish green color though out the spring and summer and then turn a stunning shade of gold as the weather turns cold.  Their colors are unmatched in most of the natural world.  There are few colors of gold that can compare to the golds of the aspens in fall.

This selection of paintings is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the talent, and amazing selection of portraits in John McNaughtons collection.  The studious care that is obvious in Mr. McNaughtons work does not happen occasionally.  It is a theme that plays out through all of his work.

For more information on John McNaughton click any of the links above.

It has been a great pleasure to highlight all of these works.  To see my own work click here, artbystaci.com.  I look forward to hearing from you soon.

I do believe I have found my new favorite portrait artist.  The skill needed to make the human form become a part of the viewer and not just a good attempt at life is not easily achieved.  Skill is one thing, but then add to that a love of the subject.  The combination of those two elements, brings an ease to the task of portraiture.  I believe, at least with in my own work, that people can be one of the hardest subjects to create, or capture.  With buildings and structures, there are definitive rules that add to the value of the painting, or rendering.  In nature there are some very strict rules, but rules that can be broken.  With people there are very strict rules that are usually broken.  This is wonderful in the real world, because it gives a personality to each individual.  However, capturing that personality, can and often does, prove elusive.

With that in mind, I invite you take a look at Damon Denys’ work.  In particular his ability to capture “personality” with in his classical technique.  In “Catching dewdrops“, you can see a child like view of life in the expression in this characters face.  The act of catching a few dew drops is one of the most innocent acts of a child.  To capture that expression is a most sought after, and difficult skill to obtain.  Damon does a wonderful job of translating the expectation of innocence into the viewers reality.  With several other portraits on display, I’m sure you can see what I am referring to.  Tangible doesn’t begin to convey how these portraits make the viewer feel.

Damon Denys has an ability to convey emotion in all of his work.  Including in his landscapes.  This is evident in, “A Storm Breaks off the Coast of Wells“.    The landscape, as amazing as it is, would be nothing with out the impending drama of the storm.  The balance between peace and disaster is achieved in this beautiful painting, with the suggestion of territorial space.  The storms impending doom, seems only to be a matter of seconds, before it over takes the coast and reeks havoc across the land.  But even with this impending doom, the thought of temporary drives through the storm.  As mighty and as noisy as this storm may be it will be short lived.

Sometimes life can be found in unexpected places.  Often times the infiltration of mechanical structure runs in offense to our senses.  But in ”Study for October Eve“, there is less of an “infiltration” and more of a feeling of accomplishment.  A non sterile look at the dreams of the initiators of life.  I love the way these buildings sit against the sky, as if holding it up rather than standing alone.  Almost a support system.  There is something familiar about the way the skyline is embedded with structure, and support.  On the side of progress it is awe inspiring.  The endurance and audacity of the human spirit sometimes gets forgotten in the me-lay of everyday life.  But the spirit itself, the human capacity for initiative, freedom, and creativity, is evident when ever you want to see it.  This painting in particular is a hint of that capacity for invention and success.  A beautifully orchestrated testament to creation even in steel and cement.

This world of Damon’s seems to be more than just at the fingertips.  The tangible, touchable aspects of his work make art more approachable.  Approachable in a way that provides access to viewers of all walks of life.  The scope that Damon’s work takes is also familiar in a way that many artists have a hard time achieving.  To be able to reach such a broad audience via a paintbrush is a talent that is hard to achieve even with the most diligent of work.  I ask that you take a look and see what this artist has to offer.  Drop Damon a note and let him know what you think as well.  I know as an artist that I love hearing from the people who have taken the time to look at what I do.  Throughout this article there are links that allow you to quickly connect to the artist that has been highlighted.  Please feel free to click on any of the links above, or even my link here.  artbystaci.com.  I would love to hear from you on the article or my work.

Thank you,

Staci

This is a little bit of a change for the posts I have already done.  The artist is still a Utah artist.  He still has beautiful work.  The difference you ask?  Well, this is photogragphy rather than paintings.  However, once you get the chance to see the work I am about to show you, I’m sure you’ll agree, The artistry that is rendered in these beautiful photgraphs is fine art.

Jeff Clay has an array of photography.  From black and white to color, landscape to city scape.  This is the work of someone that not only loves what he does, but knows how to make the viewer “feel” the photograph, not just see it.  An excellent example of this is, “Rocky Ford“.  The light that comes spilling over the landscape contrasts uniquely against the shadows and darker sky.  There is an ethereal glow to the rock that makes up this beautiful landscape.  I imagine that the water stops flowing just beyond the edge of the view, and maintains it’s presence only here in this photograph.  There is a magical quality that makes the viewer want a closer look, or maybe even a visit to this wild landscape.

Next we have a beautiful mountain scape.  I believe this is a view of the Tooele mountains on the East side of the Tooele valley.  The clouds that are slowly making their way over the peaks, while at the same time raining into the cracks and crevice’s seem so peaceful in their white billows.  Who knows however, what those same clouds will do once they get to the other side.  The reflections of mountain and cloud make the scene familiar and comfortable.  This is a view often witnessed from I-80 east.  Except how many would ever think to take the time and capture this on film?  There is much more to this photographer than being able to just push a button on a camera.  It takes timing, talent, attention to detail, and sometimes standing in the muck to get these beautiful photographs.  I hope you can see what I see.

Finally we have, one more beautiful salt flat mountain scape.  The gold line that brings your eye to the peeks and clouds gives the feel of eternity.  As if there is peak after peak that is just beyond the viewer’s grasp.  The salt layden ponds look more valuable in this photograph than they do in reality.  I think my favorite part of this photograph is the golden grasses that line the edge of the water.  They are so bright they almost seem intangible.  Or at the very least, just beyond reality.

I am certain that when you get the chance to see Jeff’s work you will fall in love as I have.  Have a look and let me know if you agree.

For a look at my work, click here for artbystaci.com.