J Hardesty Art

Take 5

2012-01-16T16:22:00.000-07:00

Take 5, Oil, 36x36.

I have been asked to paint live... a performance, action piece. At first, I was somewhat reluctant as I've previously never done this. I then thought I needed to see others paint live. I watched an LA artist friend, Vera Aruntyunyan and became enthralled. I then went on to Youtube and watched other performance painters.

I began to practice in the studio without an audience. I next wanted a small audience and drafted a group of some artist friends. There were five of them. I took approximately an hour to create the painting posted here and named it "Take 5" in their honor.

I painted with my hands (using latex gloves for protection). As I talked about what I was doing, we shared back and forth. Occasionally, I asked the group for suggestions... color choices primarily. Their involvement added to the excitement.

Now, I am still getting prepared for the big performance on March 3. I would like to do one for a non-artist group. In the meantime, I do feel more prepared than before and I will continue to practice with or without an audience. I need to videotape a performance; however, don't have a video camera.

"Language of Abstraction"

2011-05-23T10:30:00.003-06:00

Art at the Main Gallery in Salt Lake City is sponsoring my show, "Language of Abstraction," through June 11, 2011. An artist reception was held Friday evening, May 20. It seemed like a party to me. There was a steady flow of viewers from 6 to 9 p.m. The evening flew... and I wasn't ready to close. My wonderful wife, baked some goodies and provided veggies and fruits for attendees. My good friend Keith Callister sang and accompanied himself on guitar. Many other friends also lent their support and encouragement. Most patrons, however, were gallery strollers. Whichever category that fits you, thank you for coming.

If you were among those not attending the reception, you may still view the show through June 11.

My painting "Crescendo to Rage" (pictured above) garnered the most attention. A number of viewers asked about it's creation and the story behind this painting. The painting is covering a failed painting. The original work included sand and gold leaf. I allowed some of the gold leaf to show through and the sand help create a wonderful texture.

Now the rest of the story, as the saying goes. In 2008, my sister (my only sibling) died of lung cancer. She was only 67, way too young. I was very upset and miss her terribly. Last September my Mother died from Alzheimer's. I could not accept the fact that my sister died before Mom... not that I wanted Mom to die, I didn't. Her disease prevented her from having any quality of life however. I was pretty angry. Furthermore, at Mom's funeral the preacher called her by another person's name - not once, not once, but twice. This further fueled my rage. I therefore, came home and took out my rage on this canvas, hence "Crescendo to Rage."

2010-08-16T11:45:00.010-06:00

I painted "Circles" for Salt City Artists' League. The League's mission is to bring the arts together and to develop and provide more venues for artists. The League has sponsored an arts festival during the first three week-ends in August at Library Square in downtown Salt Lake City. Plywood sheets painted white, size 48x48, were provided. The League provided some latex paints.

I painted the substrate an acrylic green and began spray painting circles.

I continued to add more circles

Once I had enough circles, I then added lines.

More lines.

Artist with the finished painting.

Finished at last.

Evolution of a Painting

2010-06-27T18:09:00.003-06:00

Desiderata, 50x40x1.5 inches, Mixed Media

After first stretching the canvas, I painted it black. I then created quadrangles in the upper left and lower right corners - the one in the lower right is still somewhat visible.

In the upper left quadrangle I painted a round white circle to represent the face of an unnamed person. I then painted the five red squares on the right (I like geometric shapes).

All of this was being accomplished in Studio Window, an annex to Art at the Main Gallery in Salt Lake City, Utah. I was spontaneously adding white and blue acrylic paint to the canvas when a young lady entered to watch this process. The public is able to watch and interact with artists in Studio Window. Unfortunately, I did not get her name so I will call her Tatted Girl. Tatted Girl suggested the face in the quadrangle in the upper left should fade away down through the canvas, and further suggested to entitle the painting "Fade." I noticed that she had several lines from the poem, "Desiderata" tattooed on her right forearm; I therefore, suggested that I might title it "Desiderata" in her honor. She stated that those lines on her arm helped keep her balanced.

Later that day, I took the painting home to finish it there. I did some internet research on the poem and not only decided to call the painting "Desiderata," but also to place the title in the painting. Since I am not proficient in free-hand lettering, I used a stencil.

I then painted one of the squares a solid red to add more interest - I chose the fourth square down to draw the viewer's attention in that direction. I then added three handprints - one at the top which I subsequently painted out, a blue one to represent Tatted Girl reaching for her desiderata, and a white one grasping the side of the canvas to represent Tatted Girl hanging on to former values. I painted over the white face to represent Tatted Girl.

I love lines and added lines over lines over lines, seven inches in length. These lines are in an early layer of the painting and not all visible in the finished painting. Viewers may have to get close to see them. At some point I added the outline of the Gothic cathedral. The white area above cathedral appeared in an early layer of the painting and I chose to preserve it.

I returned to Tatted Girl's face in the upper left quadrangle as it didn't appear to be a part of the painting. I placed a mask on her face, but it didn't tone it down enough, so I applied red tissue paper over the face. She still peaked through, so I added red and blue paint over the tissue paper.

I then added thick paint with a palette knife to random areas. I repainted the red square to create a more impasto effect.

After each of these steps, I added more and more lines and more and more layers of paint. At some point during the process, I learned of a New York City artist who mixes acrylic paints with water and future acrylic shine floor wax. I adopted this technique and used it throughout the painting. My next to the last step was the addition of more lines of various thicknesses and lengths. I should also mention that in some areas before the paint dried, I sprayed it with water to create the drip effect all the way down the canvas, especially under Tatted Girl's face thereby creating the fading effect of her face.

My final step was to place the metal cross atop the Gothic cathedral.

I hope you enjoy this explanation and appreciate my process and "Desiderata."

What Was I Thinking?

2009-11-02T12:47:00.002-07:00

A lifelong friend (we went to kindergarten together) recently asked what I think when I am creating abstract paintings. I hastily answered, but now believe I need to elaborate further. There is no easy answer. Not only do everyday activites affect the outcome of my art, but changing emotions also affect it. With affectations or distractions, I usually start with an idea - I am often awakened around 3:30 or 4:00 am with ideas creeping into my consciousness. When this occurs, it is impossible to return to sleep. I often develop these ideas further as I shower and as I become more alert often receive new information.

After breakfast (I cannot work without eating), I develop my idea into a plan which may or may not include a sketch. From the sketch, I can then begin painting/creating. At this stage, I paint to jazz (without the jazz music, I feel empty). Prior to actually painting, I think about the technique and the medium which I will use, for example, brushes, size of brushes, palette knives, chopsticks, items pressed into wet paint that leave a textural impression; use of oils or acrylics, house paint, antiquing glaze, gesso, gold leaf, and pigment colors.

When actually painting/creating, I am thinking about the plan and about color, texture and form. I like bright colors but also love black and white paintings; texture that causes the viewer to linger; and form to suggest organic shapes. And of course, I am thinking about the outcome. Most of the time, I hate the piece I am working on but keeping working until I like it. I am always asking myself if a piece is finished - usually if I hate it, that means it is not. Once I like it, however, then I can decide if it is finished or not. I have to feel good about it. If I don't, I keep working until I do or I discard it or destroy it.

Finally, I then decide if I need to frame the piece. If so, I consistently take it to the same framer who is also an abstract artist and usually gives me good recommendations for picture molding. Lately, however, I have been painting on gallery stretched canvas (canvas stretched over a 1 1/2 inch stretcher) - these are normally not framed but I paint the canvas sides black or paint them to match the painting.

At long last, they are ready to hang and hopefully sell. I do have difficulty parting with some though. A friend of mine suggested I keep my favorite ones until I paint one I like even more; and so, my work evolves and keeps growing.

Eye Candy

2009-10-23T10:54:00.002-06:00

Eye candy? What's that? The Wikipedia definition of "eye candy" is attractiveness. Eye candy then could include anyone or anybody who is attractive. How does eye candy relate to art?

First, let me explain that there are some collectors who scorn, sneer, ridicule, criticize and perhaps who do not even view a work of art unless it makes a social or political statement. To them, I say "Bah Humbug." They are missing so much. Art is meant to be attractive. It is meant to be hung and admired and enjoyed over and over.

When I first heard the term "eye candy," as an artist I felt belittled. My reaction has since changed and to those who originally intimidated me, I now say "SCREW YOU!" I am proud of my eye candy. I am an neo-abstract expressionist. I use color, texture, and form to create a painting that appeals to me - that excites me and appeals to my own emotions - and I hope appeals to the viewer. Most of my paintings could categorically be labeled "eye candy." So what? As a viewer returns to one of my paintings, I want them to appreciate it anew each time and see something different each time. If I can create a work of art that brings the viewer back again and again, then I have succeeded as an artist.

Artist's Reception, Sorpresa

2009-10-17T16:31:00.002-06:00

The greatest compliment an artist may ever receive is to be collected by another artist. Last evening, at the reception for the opening of my show "Sorpresa," another artist made a purchase of one of my pieces. A second piece sold to the father of an artist. To top it off, another artist wishes to make a trade. Wow! What a blessing.

The reception was eventful. "The Precinct" provided excellent music. My wife provided excellent refreshments, and viewers were excited about my work. What more could I ask for?

With the exception of purchasing a large canvas (it was 40% off at Utrecht), I spent the day in relaxation. That canvas is calling to me however. It's preparing me for continued painting next week.

Finally, you can check out my new work at my website www.JerryHardestyFineArt.com under 'Current Works'. Happy viewing.

My Upcoming Show Featured in Sunday Paper

2009-10-11T06:57:00.003-06:00

My upcoming show, "Sorpresa," was featured in this morning's issue of the Salt Lake Tribune under the Visual Arts Notes. See Abstract passion - even with pictures. See attached URL:

http://www.sltrib.com/features/ci_13516884.

Sorpresa!

2009-10-05T07:50:00.002-06:00

I am preparing for my featured artist show at Art at the Main in Salt Lake City. I'm hanging the show on Sunday, October 11 after which I will be posting a number of new paintings on my website and also on Facebook. In the meantime, I'm painting every day; at one time, I had started eight new paintings (part of those are now complete).

I am especially excited about my show that I have entitled "Sorpresa" (Spanish or Italian for surprise). I'm hoping that viewers will find a surprise in each painting, whether it is the painting as a whole, the title, the material used to create it, the subject matter, the technique - you get the idea. I'm combining music, poetry, language, collage items, and of course paint to create these surprises.

"Sorpresa" will run from October 12 through November 14 with a reception during Gallery Stroll from 6 to 9 pm on October 16. Music; will be provided by "The Precinct." Refreshments by my wife, Pam. If you're in the area, please come and enjoy. If not, pass this on to those who might be. "Sorpresa" is at Art at the Main, 210 East 400 South (ground floor of the SLC Main Library), Salt Lake City, Utah.

See you there.

Controversial Artist

2009-09-23T11:27:00.003-06:00

Can you believe it? I am now a controversial artist. Does that mean I have arrived? Arrived where?

Allow me to explain. I have had an exhibit of eight paintings at Acme Burger Company in Salt Lake City. My wife, my son and his girlfriend and I had lunch there Sunday. I noticed that one of my paintings was no longer hanging. Did it sell? I doubt it as no one called to verify the price. Was it stolen? What a compliment that would be! We had lunch and I didn't mention the missing painting. Monday morning, however, I went to Acme and found my painting in the wine cellar - hmmm, I thought about staying there and enjoying a bottle; however, it was a little early in the day, even for me. But in the wine cellar, not even hanging on the wall! Artwork should not be hidden away in a cellar or a storage unit (just remembered all those landscapes I recently placed in storage).

With painting in hand, I ascended the stairs and met up with the owner. He informed me that he had received too many negative comments concerning the piece and therefore removed it from the wall. Now what am I going to do with this piece I call "Battle," (battle between the genders)?

Art in the Garden

2009-09-21T15:18:00.002-06:00

On Saturday, October 19, the Utah Artist's League (of which I am a member) held an event, "Art in the Garden." Music was provided by the Stratford Street Big Band (they were fantastic). The garden was provided by Dr. and Mrs. Scott Smith. Refreshments were served (I pigged out on sweets).

I was the only contemporary artist present among 14 landscape artists. At first, I thought no one would be interested in abstract art, but I talked all evening (my poor throat was dry - I needed some wine, but that was out of the question). One lady asked me to explain my artwork as she didn't comprehend abstract expressionism (after talking, she said she understands it better). I sold one piece. I'm always excited even if just one sells.

Another event and another experience behind me. Now, it's back to painting for my show and reception as featured artist at Art at the Main in Salt Lake City October 12 with the reception on October 16. See you there.

Peach Days

2009-09-14T18:57:00.002-06:00

Peach Days in Brigham City, Utah were just "peachy" (sarcasm). Actually, I had peach cobbler twice and was disappointed that it was made with canned peaches. I had peach fritters - hmmmm! And I had peach pie made with fresh peaches - YES! I wasn't there, however, just for the peaches. Another artist and I shared a booth; unfortunately, most attendees were there for the peaches and socializing, not for fine art.

I had decided beforehand that Brigham City wasn't ready for my abstract expressionism and took my landscape paintings. They weren't ready for those either. My friend and I did not sell a single painting. Woe is me! I cannot continue to spend money on these events and not even break even.

Since wall space and storage space is at a premium in our home now, I packed the landscapes in plastic tubs and placed them in a storage unit. Now tell me, shouldn't art hang on someone's wall? Not tucked away and forgotton in a storage unit? I still have a number of landscapes on my website, www.JerryHardestyFineArt.com - I might make you a deal if you really want one.

Meanwhile, I'm back working on my abstracts for an upcoming show in October as Featured Artist at Art at the Main in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah.

Beyond the Border, San Diego

2009-09-07T16:27:00.002-06:00

Beyond the Border International Contemporary Art Fair was held in San Diego, California September 2 - 4, 2009. It was a first in many ways. First time ever held. First time for IAO Gallery to participate and first time for many of the IAO artists to participate in such an event, including myself. First, we had to get there. Have to give credit to Albert Wang for having the vision and making application. Thanks Albert. Have to give him credit as well for selecting a diversified stable of artists to participate and attend. Again, thanks Albert.

After that process, however, we had to physically get there. That in itself is an adventure. I volunteered to drive my SUV and take as much art as possible along with Albert and Brian Staker, our drafted journalist for the event. Twas a long, arduous trip - 13 hours in a cramped SUV. Took an hour to get through Las Vegas; took an hour to bypass an accident on the interstate. We were ready to climb out of that vehicle upon arrival. Took three hotel luggage carts to remove bags, artwork etc. from the vehicle to our room.

Other artists began to arrive: David B. Smith from NYC; Mindy Kober from Houston; Darren Breen from Provo; Mark Phelan from Boston; Andrew Wrigley and Rachel from Philadelphia; Jamison Sarteschi from NYC; Kay Tuttle an Tom from Denver; Stacy Wexler from California; Amy Caron from Salt Lake City; Mason Fetzer and Carlee from Salt Lake City; Circlegal from Salt Lake City with Zach from Canada; along with qi peng, Brian Staker, and myself from Salt Lake City. At one point we had eight people in our hotel room (four on the floor and four in the beds). A whole lot of rhythmical snoring invading the silence - wait there was not silence. We took turns inhaling and exhaling. Sounds of sleeplessness filled the atmosphere.

Wednesday, we set up the IAO booth. It was exciting and electric with everyone scrambling in the ballroom to put the finishing touches on their booths. Wednesday evening was the VIP opening. Our booth garnered much attention and was perhaps the edginess booth present. Along with the VIP event and Thursday and Friday, I passed out at least 500 of my own business cards. And even though, IAO Gallery only sold two pieces, we were in good company - most galleries sold nothing. We made some excellent contacts though.

Speaking of contacts, I, personally, had some excellent encounters, and received some excellent advice concerning my art. One young lady was enamored with my work and chose to spend at least a half hour looking through my portfolio - that in itself was worth the whole trip as she inspired me. Another gentleman plans to come to Salt Lake City for a studio visit (awesome). And Mr. Allen (that's his first name) advised me to paint my life events (2 strokes and 2 heart attacks) into my work. Now, how am I to do that - that's for me to determine, I suppose. So far, nothing; although I've been thinking about it.

We experienced wonderful food, tasty wine and vodka; oh, and unforgettable laughter. It was very entertaining, and I thought I was too. Circlegal drew my picture based on a story I told. Thanks Circlegal.

The IAO artists became a family, perhaps a dysfunctional family; but what the heck, aren't most families? Saying 'au revoir' was sweet sorrow (ugh, I used a cliche). Some left Friday evening. For qi, Brian and myself, it was packing up Saturday morning. I don't understand it, 3 hotel luggage carts going down, four on the return. We left San Diego about 11:30 mountain time. Made several stops for gas and potty breaks. We stopped in Primm, Nevada; I was walking around looking for a candy bar and someone slapped me on the butt. Would you believe, it was Circlegal who had stopped at the very same location. Small world.

We rolled into SLC about 11:30 pm. I don't know about Albert or Brian, but I've been pretty exhausted ever since.

Artrepreneur

2009-08-14T08:17:00.002-06:00

Artrepreneur - I have decided that label describes me best. I wish I could take credit for having coined that word; unfortunately, I believe I read it somewhere. You may be asking yourself "What's an artrepreneur?" Yet, you may possibly be ahead of me. Whatever, I will tell you anyway.

As an Artrepreneur, of course first, I am an artist. Duh! As an artist, do I want to sell my work? Duh, again! What artist wouldn't want their work hanging in homes other than their own. I'm assuming in a collector's home or a wannabe collector's home. I love looking at my own work, but I have limited wall space. Once the walls are covered, the storage space fills up quickly. What's an artist to do? Duh! Sell!

Anyway as an artrepreneur, I am an administrator, bookkeeper, publicist, marketer, salesman, webmaster, blogger, photographer, purchaser, maintenance, carpenter, framer, creator, writer, painter, sketcher, student, reader, speaker. You get the idea. I'm not saying I'm good at all these responsibilities; however, I have to do them; otherwise, my work would be banished to the garage and I do like parking my car there.

Happy viewing at www.JerryHardestyFineArt.com.

Ciao, Jerry

A Day in the Life of an Artist

2009-08-10T15:34:00.003-06:00

A day in the life of an artist - that's ludicrous - there is no typical day. With that said, I try, but I'm not always successful. I'm up showered and had breakfast by 8 (have read the paper too, and finished the crossword). By the way, I'm sure some artists who work in a home studio like I do probably don't get dressed - I do, I dress casually, jean shorts and a tee that I don't mind splattering with paint (my wife minds, she thinks she has to get it out - I can hear her now, "You're ruining all your clothes!"). It's been said that artists have two kinds of clothes, "those with paint" and "those that will have paint."

I then spend about an hour on the computer, updating different sites to which I belong and checking emails. I start painting about 9:00 - this is when it becomes atypical. How can it not be? I work on several paintings at the same time - you see, I become easily bored. Furthermore, I paint on one, wait for it to dry then on to another and so on. I failed to mention even though I don't usually get up before 6:30, I'm very often awake at 4 with a number of creative ideas for the day. When I paint I listen to jazz - I rarely hear anything else. I get in the "zone." My mind is jumping from idea to idea, from painting to painting, from sketching to painting and back again. At times, I stop to photograph a finished piece, and also to have a mid-morning snack. Then I paint until 12:30 or 1:00 when I stop for lunch after which I paint until about 3:00 or 3:30 when I am painted out.

Now it's wine time and back to the computer. The evening is spent reading and watching crime shows or Jeopardy.

Is this typical? For me, perhaps, but not always - there are other mundane chores that I hate. Running to purchase art supplies. Preparing canvases. Accounting (ugh!), I hate that. Marketing - now that's a big one! But then if I didn't market myself, no one would know or care.

Remember, my favorite quote is by Cecile D. DeMille, "Creativity is a passion I cannot live without."

Ciao, Jerry

Addiction, Obsession or Passion

2009-08-06T18:56:00.002-06:00

Utah Artist's League met this morning at Melodie's cabin to plein air paint and have lunch. One of the discussions focused on addictions (you know, caffiene, smoking, drinking ). We did not, however, reveal our own addictions. Assume for a moment though that addictions are bad, and they are. What's the difference between an addiction and obsession (equally bad) or is there any difference? I won't bore you with dictionary definitions, but to paraphrase an addiction is a dependency on something (you cannot live without it) and an obsession is a preoccupation with an idea or feeling.

And art or any aspiration for that matter? I like to think of my art as my passion. It is a driving force in my life - I have to do it or I am unhappy - unsatisfied. A friend stated that I go at it.... "with my balls against the wall." Hmmm.... like gangbusters. Nothing gets in my way. If I were unable to paint, I would be depressed. Is this a normal approach to a passion or aspiration? Or is this a part of my Type A personality? To wrap it up, I would have to say, I have an obsessive addiction for my passion. My wife would say I'm just addicted.

Blog Changes

2009-08-04T16:17:00.002-06:00

I am certain that you can see I have changed my blog. I've deleted previous posts (for some reason there are two former posts I cannot delete). Instead of being a showcase for my artwork, the blog will now be informational - posts about how I am progressing artistically, and what I'm doing in my studio (home studio). If you want to view my artwork, please go to my website, www.JerryHardestyFineArt.com. The website is more user friendly for viewing a number of pieces in a short time.

Unfortunately, I have also had to eliminate the monthly drawings - sorry! I may, however, do something different in the future. I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, enjoy both the blog and the website.

There is a number of things I want to share with you; however, I don't want this post to be too long so I'll share them later. In the meantime, thanks for your loyalty and friendship.