Characters, Color and Whimsy

Have you ever asked yourself how artists come up with their ideas, or the images they represent in their art? Ever wondered why they choose the colors they choose? Or why they place things in certain areas? Believe it or not there is a method to the madness as it were. (Or at least there should be) It is quite a cerebral undertaking and when done thoroughly, leads to wonderful results.

The process of creating a visual representation of a fantasy story or theme was the topic of a class Eva taught this past weekend at the Everson Museum of Art. Telling a story through artwork can be a very enjoyable process, once one masters a few steps. With that said the students in the class got to work and rolled up their sleeves to begin the practices being taught.

Any guesses as to what they were being shown? Well, since the class was about creating a fantasy story painting using a narrative approach; character development would be an important step to understand. An exercise to practice this skill is to borrow from caricature artists. Take some time to think about the level of exaggeration you can manipulate to achieve an interesting character. Or maybe you can morph parts from one type of animal for example onto an unexpected creature. When you allow yourself time to play with this concept and sketch your ideas you will soon see your very own unique characters coming to light.
Another practice used to help develop their ideas was to answer in pictures, who, what, when, where, why and how are all these ideas relating to one another in their painting.

Understanding color and how to use them is a class that is usually a whole semester or two of college. Trying to understand it all in a weekend class or workshop is unrealistic. We delved into the basics and came away with a place to start.

Did someone say, “Whimsy”? Why, yes that was me; Eva, I LIKE whimsy and it’s important to include a bit of whimsy so as not to take ourselves so seriously. I mean, isn’t there enough of that already? Adding some whimsy and joy into your art will help spread the joy and we need more of that these days.

In a nutshell that’s a little bit about how artists get to work on creating their painted stories. It really is up to the individual artist to use the practices that work best for them. As your skills develop over time, you’ll see improvement in your art. Get a sketchbook and draw every day, take notes, find resource images, save them, daydream, play and enjoy the process.

Secret Passage is part of the Happy Little Treehouse Series

Taking an art class can help in so many ways. Not only do we learn from what the instructor is sharing, but we learn from the other students in our class. Maybe you’re a little nervous about taking a class with a group of other artists. It happens. We compare our work to others and worry we’re not good enough. I’m going to tell you to stop right there and give yourself a break. Don’t compare your art to other art. It’s not fair to yourself and prevents you from moving forward. Consider starting with a private lesson. You’ll get Eva’s undivided attention and a lesson designed specifically for you. When teaching a new skill or technique, she will give you a demonstration and guide you through the process. Each stroke of the paintbrush is a step towards improving your technique and skill. She’s also pretty nice and very supportive.

If you’re interested in learning how to create your own fantasy painting Eva is offering a studio workshop on Thursday, Aug 15th, from 5:30-8:30pm. Pre-registration is required. Register here

Additional upcoming classes being offered in Eva’s Art Studio include Palette Knife Technique Aug 14 and/or Aug 16 Register Here Pastel Painting Class Aug 19 and/or Aug 21 Register Here Small Group Watercolor Classes July 29, Aug 8, Aug 12 Register Here

Textural Abstract Acrylic Master Class Saturday August 24, 10:30-2:30 Eva is teaching this class at The Art Store Register Here all materials provided for the Art Store classes. See details pertaining to each class offered in Eva’s Art Studio regarding supplies and materials. Most are included in your lesson.

Psst, here’s an insider scoop! Eva will be offering a watercolor class based on painting like Frida Kahlo! Save the date Sat. Sept 28th, 11am-3pm. It will be offered via the Art Store. Stay tuned for a link next time! …..aaannd upcoming to the studio will be classes offered in Cold Wax & Oil paintings! Woo-hoo!

As Promised...

Fantasy Story Painting: Using A Narrative Approach to Create Art

Thursday, July 18, 2024, 6:00-8:00pm and Saturday, July 20, 2024, 10:30am-3:00pm (half hour lunch break). Classes held at The Everson Museum of Art 401 Harrison St, Syracuse, NY. $50 Members/ $65 Non-Members. Register

This two-part class taught by Eva Hunter will take students through the process of creating their own fantasy story painting. Using techniques in composition, character development, color theory and skill development, students will paint with acrylics on canvas to bring their stories to light.

And A Big Thank You to everyone who came out to see me at Crazy Daisies Summer Art Market this past Saturday! Wow! What a wonderful day. The weather was perfect, the crowd was amazing, and the venue was rocking with the live music, food and beverages! I am truly thankful to have participated in this event and share my art with new friends. One of my most recent watercolor paintings, “My Colorado” sold, along with a bunch of prints, cards, ties and jewelry. Time to make some more!!

Latest from the studio of Eva Hunter, Art

Hello again! I am happy to see that as I begin this month’s blog post; it’s not snowing this time! I’m pretty sure I haven’t jinxed us all too, June seems like a fairly safe month to not have to worry about that cold, white stuff. So, here’s the latest news from the studio….

My solo show is up and doing great! Haven’t seen it yet? Well; get yourself to the Marcellus Library and check it out. It’s up until June 29th. When I set it up, I was happy to see that the library has a dedicated hanging system for art and a very large space to accommodate several pieces of art. With that in mind, I am showing a large collection of works never shown in public before.

Classes have been going well too and selling out fairly quickly. I thank you for attending them and for all your encouragement! It’s been great sharing my techniques and knowledge with you all. The pictures you’re sending me of your finished pieces have been wonderful. I’m so proud of you!

Here’s where to catch me next….

Saturday, June 15th 9:30am-4:00pm I’ll be bringing a collection of small works, jewelry, bowties, ties, scarves, prints and cards to the Crazy Daisies Summer Art Market event. Please stop by and check it out. They have a wonderful set-up, great food and beverages, beautiful flowers and live music!! In honor of this being my first time as a Crazy Daisy vendor; I created a new painting. It’s not only a new painting, but also in a completely new style and technique for me! So, because I love all you wonderful Eva Hunter Art Fans all so much, here’s a sneak peek at it…

View fullsize

Saturday, June 29 10:30am-2:30pm I’ll be teaching a painting class that will show you how to use my technique of using alcohol inks and oils together in a painting. Held at The Art Store 935 Erie Blvd E There’s only a few spots left, so sign up soon. All materials provided! Here’s a link for you: Register Now

Stay tuned for more info regarding my new class to be offered at The Everson Museum of Art in July!

As always, please reach out to me via email or phone if you are interested in any of my art or lessons with me. Please note, if I don’t pick your call up it’s because I’m most likely giving a private lesson or am up to my armpits in paint. Leave me a message and I’ll get back to you as soon as I clean my brushes.

I’m off for a visit to one of my most favorite places on Earth (Colorado) and will be soaking up as much inspiration as possible. Enjoy your days, weeks, and month. Get outside and paint something (I know I will!)

It's Getting Busy Again

I note that the last time I sat down to write my blog that it began snowing and kept snowing the entire time! A girl could get a little discouraged about that kind of thing. This time I waited a few days for the snow to melt and I’m pretty sure we’re safe now. (You’re welcome) In addition to delivering amazing weather reports I want to share some news about upcoming classes and exhibits. Seems like there’s an awful lot of artistic activities going on around here. Hmmmm could be this is my life and I love it!

Please consider stopping in to see the art exhibits I’m showing in. In addition to art by yours truly you can see art from other local artists. How cool is that? A whole bunch of artsy stuff to look at in one place! Spring Fine Art Show & Sale Presented by the CNY Art Guild, April 13 & 14 Aspen House 8550 N Entry Rd, Baldwinsville, NY (Radisson) Eva will have new paintings, jewelry, cards and prints available. Artist Spotlight-Eva Hunter Hosted by Karl’s Custom Framing, May 1-31 Address 134 S Peterboro St, Canastota, NY *Demo & Reception May 29 6-8pm Fine Art Show & Sale Presented by the Onondaga Art Guild, May 4 & 5 Emanuel Episcopalian Church, DeWitt Feathers and Petals Solo exhibit, June 1-30 Marcellus Free Library 32 Maple St, Marcellus, NY

In addition to the private and small group lessons offered in my studio, you can find me teaching in a variety of local venues. Here’s where I’ll be…

Watercolor Master Class I sold out but we added a second date! Watercolor Master Class II Fri, April 19 11-4 Art Store 935 Erie Blvd E. Scarf Dye Class Wed April 24 1-2 Westcott Community Center Watercolor Basics Fri April 26 12-2 Art Store Watercolor Painting Thurs May 23 6-8pm NOPL N Syracuse Pastel Master Class Sat May 25 11-4 Art Store Oils & Inks Sat June 29 10:30-2:30 Art Store Fantasy Story Painting Thurs & Sat July 18 6-8pm & July 20 10:30-3 this is a new two-part class to be held at the Everson Museum of Art. Save the date, more details in future news.

Click here to register for any of the classes held at the Art Store. Please note that all materials are included in classes held at the Art Store and you receive a 20% discount on purchases the day of your class! How cool is that!

Thanks for all the fun we’ve been having in classes! Recently I taught an alcohol ink class at the Clay Senior Center. I met some wonderful people and am looking forward to offering some more art classes there. Stay tuned for dates and info. Last weekend I taught a Water Marbling Class at the Art Store and wow, what a riot! Talk about color explosion; my favorite kind!

And, yes even with all these fun classes and art shows I’m still creating new pieces of art! My most recent pieces are a combination of alcohol inks and oils, and I just love the way these mediums look together! Check out the Rose of Sharon image below. This piece is 14 x 14-inches and when it’s done drying it’ll be framed and available. I’m hoping it’s dry by the time the 1st art show comes around! Here’s looking forward to the arrival of Spring. I hope to see you around!

Upcoming Classes and Exhibits

Hello from the art studio! As I sit here typing on yet another snowy morning, I can’t help but be excited for Spring to get here! Yes, I’m aware of how mild our winter has been, and I’m not sorry for wanting warmer weather. There’s much going on in the Spring and I’m excited to share some new things happening……………..

First please save the date for my SOLO Art Exhibit! I’ll be the featured artist all of June at the Marcellus Library. Woo-Hoo! I’m secretly hoarding images of my new artwork in case you’ve noticed a lack of them on my social media pages. I’ll have a ton of new work available during the show, be sure to stop in for a looksee!

Second, I’ve got new classes lined up at The Art Store on Erie Blvd. All materials are provided for the classes at the Art Store. Sign up in person or online at theartstore.com Classes being offered there are as follows…

#1: Ultimate Watercolor Masterclass Sat. April 13, 11:00-4:00,

#2: Basics of Watercolor Friday April 26, Noon-2pm

#3: Water Marbling on Paper Friday March 22, 12:00-2:00pm

New Classes in my studio are online now. Check em out here! We’ve got a small Weeknight Painting Group getting started, Color Theory workshops, Watercolor Painting, Pastel Painting and as always small and private lessons are available!

Coming up in the warmer Spring and summer months will be a class to dye a bathrobe! Be sure to keep an eye out for that one as space is going to be very limited!!

Eva will also be participating for the first time in the Onondaga Art Guild Fine Art Show the weekend of May 4th. More details to follow, but please save the date.

Stay warm and enjoy that white stuff if that’s your bag. As for me, I’m going to fire up my encaustics and warm up with a little hot wax painting.

Art As Meditation

A meditative state is when your body and mind are in a deep state of relaxation. It’s not about the absence of thoughts, but more about not getting tangled up in them. If you think about it, you might think that the process of creating art is rather stressful and completely NOT relaxing. I wouldn’t hold it against you if that’s what you thought; but I will tell you that you’ve got it wrong.

I’ve been working on a special commission piece for a client, (heck all my pieces are special; there I said it). At first it was a challenge to think about all the things that needed to go into it. Talk about getting tangled up in my thoughts! The process of creating new artwork begins with a discussion with the client. We discuss things such as: subject or theme, reference photos, specific requirements, budget, timeline, deposit, framing, etc.

After listening attentively while the client shares their ideas, I ask questions and take copious notes, look at their reference photos and thank them for the opportunity. This meeting usually takes no more than an hour or so. Then the fun begins.

Once I’m able to begin working on the piece, I go through a process of drawing quick studies of the subject and thumbnails of the composition/concept. This is where all those tangled thoughts start to really dance and tangle even more. Sometimes they get a little knotted and frayed and need to be weeded out. Too much of a good thing can be bad, and too much of a bad thing can be, well; bad. Then the color testing begins, and I won’t bombard you with that kaleidoscope of fun this time. Suffice it to say that there tends to be a few days of moving things around and making decisions. It’s all good though because something truly amazing happens. As I work through these processes, I find my awareness is heightened, decisions seem easier to make, I can “see” the piece in my head and that tells me how to bring it to light. Doing the actual work of putting brush to canvas fills me with a sense of inner calm and allows the clients’ idea to emerge through the tip of my paint brush.

The process of creating art is truly a meditative state for me. I’m in my studio most days 10-5 and am always surprised when my husband opens the studio door at 5pm to inquire about my day (and what’s for supper?) It’s not that my time has flown by, but rather that I was in each of the moments that make up my day so deeply that time seemed irrelevant. Now if I could only figure out how to apply that to those little lines on my face.

When you’re ready to discover your inner calm, consider taking a class with me. Art can be used to create calming environments too, take a look at the image below. Look how inviting and comfy that sofa looks. Soft blues and violet are soothing colors, swirls give the eye a place to wander in the painting, leading to a sense of peace and relaxation. The room looks cozy, and the poppy painting adds to the feeling of comfort and calm.

On A Cold Winter's Day

Hello, it’s me Eva; Happy New Year from the studio! Ever wonder what I do on cold winter days? You know, the kind of day where you just can’t make yourself go outside in all that white stuff? I hear yah and totally get it. Even if it meant I’d get to go to my art studio and make art; my heart says yes but those freezing fingers and toes say no way. Leave the snow scraping for another day! The studio is warm and dry and conveniently connected to my home. Every winter when we get our first real snowfall, I am so thankful for this wonderful space. I am thankful for all of you too and looking forward to another great year of art, classes, shows and events!

I’ve spent a few days updating my website, adding classes, New Art on my shop page Prints and notecards. I’m excited to share with you that I’ll be offering a new subject this year: Intro to Color Theory! Everyone can benefit from understanding color theory, no matter what your medium or experience. There is also a new Weeknight Painting Group being offered, and some surprises TBA. Register for these new offerings via the Classes page.

Winter in the studio gives me a chance to regroup and organize for the coming warmer months. Like taking care of techie things, which I tend to put off and am finally able to check off the to-do list! Love that feeling. It’s also a time of re-stocking items for shows and festivals that I’ll be participating in.

Oh but what about art making and actual painting you ask? Well, that never ends. There are currently five paintings in the “work in progress” stage on my easel. There’s also a list of painting ideas that I want to create. This list is added to on a regular basis. It is a practice that I highly recommend to all my students and art friends…

Make a list of the projects you want to create. Do it in a sketchbook! This way you can add notes like details, color, and your inspiration. Draw several compositional studies of your idea. This will help you with placement of the components that you want to put in your piece. Do color swatches and test out your palette colors. Sometimes the colors we think we want to use don’t actually work when we start painting with them. Save yourself the frustration and cost of making color mistakes (yes, that was a shameless plug for Intro to Color Theory class)

Cold winter days in the studio are filled with artistic activities. By keeping busy and continuing to create; I know that I’ll have whimsical art that brings you joy. And that my friend brings warmth to my soul. Happy painting!

How To Seal Alcohol Ink Paintings

Have you discovered the delightful results you can achieve with alcohol inks? Those highly saturated colors and swirling blooms are amazing! The artwork created using these inks deserve to be protected so you can enjoy them for a long time.

If you’ve ever taken an alcohol ink class with Eva, you’ve heard her review and demo the steps to care for and protect your masterpieces. After classes she usually sends out an email reminder with written instructions too (how nice of her).

She thought it might be useful to other people to share those instructions and so here you go; How To Seal & Protect Your Alcohol Ink Paintings…

Be sure to let your alcohol ink piece dry completely before trying to seal it; give it a day or two.

Step One

Krylon Kamar Varnish is a non-yellowing, acid free spray, and vital in protecting your alcohol inks from interfering with any other product. Apply in thin, even coats, making sure to dry well between each layer. This is the most important thing you can do to protect your artwork.

Step Two

Krylon Gallery Series UV Archival Varnish matte (or glossy if you prefer). After you’ve got at least 3 layers of the Kamar varnish, then spray several thin, even layers of the UV protection over that, drying between each layer.

Step Three

Krylon Acrylic Crystal Spray- Once you have both the Kamar varnish and UV sprays completed, you can add a non-yellowing clear coat to finish your project.

These are the steps that Eva follows to seal and protect all of her alcohol ink artwork. She also frames them under glass to add another layer of protection. If you are interested in learning more about painting with alcohol inks please consider taking a lesson with Eva. She offers private and small group classes in her Clay, NY studio. Come with your friends and share the fun!

Take A Class

The Best Place to Hang Art?

Howdy and hello from the arctic snowy realm of Clay, NY. Today is a blustery day and cold reminder that winter is still here (even though it never really felt like it actually arrived). Wherever you are, I hope you are warm and safe.

As I sit here in my nice cozy studio trying to figure out what to write for this blog; I remember a comment made to me awhile ago. It was basically, “I love that piece of art! But, I can’t purchase it right now because I don’t have the perfect place to hang it.”

Whaaaat?

This isn’t the first time I’ve heard that comment. It’s a common observation at art shows, festivals, pop-ups and events. Always involves someone just ooh-ing & ahh-ing over a piece of art they just love. There’s usually a bit of excitement as they exclaim how much it’s so perfect and blah, blah, blah they just don’t know where they’d hang it….Many an artist friend of mine and even myself have been left wondering what the perfect place to hang art is for these people. I’m here to let you in on a little secret….

There is NO perfect place to hang art. I’m gonna give you a moment to calm down and think about that.

The secret is to purchase art you love and hang it where you will be able to enjoy it the most! Think about it. Is there a room or place where you spend the most time? Hang art there, because you’ll be able to enjoy it the most when you’re in that space. Art can help us create moods and enhance how we feel. When you’re looking at art that you love, ask yourself why you like it. How does it make you feel? Is it calming and relaxing? Buy it and go hang it in the room you like to chill in! That would be perfect!

Still need to know the perfect spot? Ok, here’s an idea. Look for places to hang art that you might not expect, like a small horizontal piece above a door or a tiny print at the dog’s/cat’s eye level by their water bowl.

Just buy art that you love, from local, living artists (the dead ones don’t need to pay bills). Be unique. Unlike the mass produced stuff you find at big box stores original art allows you to show off your personality and your own uniqueness.

Image above is a watercolor painting I did recently while staying in a cabin for an extended weekend. The bent birch trees where fascinating to me and I just had to paint them. It’s a smallish painting roughly 6 x 9 inches, done on Arches 300GSM paper. Where would you hang a piece this small? If it were up to me, I’d suggest matting it with a 1 1/2-inch mat board in maybe a blue-gray color mat, and popping it into a nice wooden frame. Now you’ve got a painting that’s roughly 10 x 15, which would fit almost anywhere. Hang it where you’d enjoy it the most. Perfect!

Where've I been? Good Question...

Yep, I know, I know; I did it again. Missed a month to post my blog. August came and went in a whirlwind of activity, and it was impossible to get to the keyboard. My apologies, really. I do appreciate you taking the time to read my posts and I know you look forward to them. Thank you for your indulgence. So, what’s kept me away? Plenty………………….

In July we traveled to Georgia to celebrate our grandson Leon’s first birthday. He’s such a cutie pie and you will most likely see him in a painting of mine before too long! We spent about a week or so there and although we loved spending time with family the blazing sun and high temperatures were a bit oppressive. After a few days rest back home, we packed up and flew to visit more family in Colorado.

Happy Birthday Leon! (Told yah he was a cutie pie!)

As you may recall, Colorado is one of my most favorite places on the planet. Tons of artistic inspiration!! Hikes are like eating eye candy for me! The western landscape with its reds and golds are absolutely stunning. Yes, I did some painting while there. Did a bunch of studies to use in studio as reference materials and worked up a few more detailed paintings. They’re not quite finished yet though, so you’ll have to stay tuned. Returned home in the middle of August and took a nap (LOL)

August was spent prepping materials for a fresh new batch of my funky bohemian style bowties. The whole process takes about two weeks and since I was sold out during Art Mart last holiday season, I wanted to get going on them. Before I can hand marble each tie, they need to be scrubbed and prepped with a mordant. While they dry, I whip up a couple 5-gallon buckets of goo (that’s what I call it anyways) the goo lets the colors float on the surface. I clean out my 7-foot marbling trough and poor in about 2-inches of goo. Once it settles, the fun can start! I add the colors one at a time, and manipulate, twirl and create designs into the paints. Then I carefully place the tie over top, picking up the design first on one side and then flip it to catch the design onto the reverse side. A quick rinse to remove most of the goo, and then they dry and cure for a minimum of 10 days. This is to ensure good adhesion of the designs. Then I wash them in a mild soap and add fabric softener, another dry on the line, a quick ironing and finally they’re ready! Once I take their pictures both tied and un-tied versions, I post them to my website.

I’m STILL taking pictures of this current batch. Not only did I do 36 new ties, but I also added 12 pocket squares and 12 lapel pins to the mix! Can I just say, they look gorgeous!

August is also the time when I hand paint glass bulb ornaments. These were also wiped-out last holiday season for which I am grateful. I really enjoy painting these and was happy to have the chance to refill my stock. If this is something you are interested in learning how to do, I offer classes both in my studio and at the Art Store.

So, now we’re into September and I’m still working on getting all those tie photos done, sealing ornaments and carding my jewelry. Oh, yeah, I forgot to add I’ve been making new jewelry too! Earrings, necklaces and bracelets, oh my!

September is also the time when my returning students resume their private lessons, and when I schedule new group classes outside my studio. SO, here’s your insider scoop on where you can catch me teaching

1. Alcohol Ink Painting Class on Sat. Sept 17, 2-4:00 at the Art Store, Erie Blvd. Call 315-474-1000 to register ($25 all materials included)

2. Pan Pastel Painting, a four-week seminar for beginner and experienced art enthusiasts, Begins Sat Oct 8th 10:30am-12:30pm, runs Oct 22, 29 and Nov 5th Classes held at the Art Store (See #1 for info) All materials provided, fee is $25 per session

3. Alcohol Ink Ornaments Sat Nov 19 Session 1 from 11am-1pm, Session 2 from 2-4pm all materials provided fee is $25, held at the Art Store

So, thanks for hanging in there with me, I had a lot of catching up to do. I appreciate you very much! Have a wonderful day!! Stay healthy and enjoy the rest of our nice weather before that white stuff starts falling!