swallowstudios blog

Water tank studies

2012-02-15T19:18:00.004-06:00

Lately, one of the first things I do at the studio is make a paint pen drawing to loosen up. Specifically, I've been doing studies of water tanks in black and white. First, I prime the mat board surface with some gesso and tinted with a little paint. Once the paint dries, it's ready for me to draw on.

I've been creating the water tank studies based on photographs that I took in Chicago, New York, Portland and Minneapolis. Once it's a little warmer, I'll head outside and draw some water tanks in person. Here's a photo of what I've done so far:

water tank studies, acrylic and oil paint pen on mat board

New Show of Screen Prints - Scot's Bar

2012-02-08T11:47:00.001-06:00

I started working with an art rep recently to have my work placed in different venues. The first show is now up at Scot's Bar in Ravenswood, just off of the Montrose Brown Line stop.

I'm showing a mix of my screen prints featuring rooftop water tanks. There are several pieces from each series included in the show:

Kingsbury St. Water Tanks

Stencil Tanks

Water Tanks and Birds

Rooftop water tanks are a unique architectural feature in cities - especially Chicago and New York. They are a link to our industrial past and a disappearing element of the cityscape. Due to the decline of these structures, I've been making it a point to photograph them when I see them. These photos are then used for reference in my cityscape paintings or as the main focal point of my screen prints.   

My screen prints are created using multiple layers of ink and paint. I like to work quickly, so screen printing lets me create many images at once. They are created as part of a series, but each piece is unique and one-of-a-kind. I enjoy the multifaceted process of screen printing and the experimental nature of the medium that sometimes leads to happy accidents, contributing to the unique quality of the print.

Video view of West Loop commission painting

2012-02-01T20:19:00.003-06:00

I'm about 75% done with the West Loop Cityscape commission painting. I shot this video to give a closer view of the details, colors and texture. Today and added many more layers and introduced some purples and blues that didn't exist previously. For some of the details, I used conté crayons which give some of the marks a sketch-like quality.

West Loop Cityscape, acrylic on canvas, 2012

Studio Peek

2012-01-27T22:33:00.003-06:00

Here's a peek inside my studio this afternoon. Lots of random paint, supplies, brushes. Finished art on the walls and the commission painting in progress sitting on the easel.

Cityscapes - new youtube video posted

2012-01-27T13:58:00.001-06:00

I started a new youtube channel today: KevinSwallowArt. This is the first video - really just a slideshow of some paintings set to music by the band Tortoise. In the future, I'll be adding more slideshows but also videos from the studio.

Snow day!

2012-01-20T13:44:00.001-06:00

Lots of snow coming down this afternoon, and after 7 days straight in the studio, today I'm taking a day off. Gotta refresh -- plus, I need to work on some office and business projects.

I'm now about halfway done with my West Loop commission painting. More layers, some colors changes and details to be added. I'm looking forward to having the collectors come for a studio visit next week so they can see where it's at in person.

West Loop Skyline - painting in progress

Water tanks - studio installation

2012-01-10T21:18:00.001-06:00

I didn't do any painting today, but was able to hang some water tanks on one of my studio walls. Most are finished but a couple still in progress. Looking to get some inspiration for my West Loop Cityscape commission painting...

I also hung some screen prints of bicycles on the back red wall of my work bench.

The start of the West Loop Cityscape commission painting

2012-01-08T22:08:00.005-06:00

A long and productive studio day - forging ahead with the commission painting...

Today, I painted over the charcoal sketch outlines in order to keep the composition as close to what I initially envisioned. If you look close, you can see that I also added the Lake Street El Train in front of the old grain silos just to the left of center. I also added a little color to add depth and to start playing with ideas for color scheme.

Sold painting - "Dreams Never End"

2012-01-05T10:10:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I sold this painting - special thanks to my friends and art collectors, Bill and Laura!

This painting is the first time I worked to combine city imagery with portraits. I'm looking to do more of that down the road and I'll look back to this piece or inspiration. The title is taken from a song of the same name from New Order's album, Movement.

It's one of my favorite paintings from my people series and I'll miss it, but I know it's going to a good home! I hear it will be given a prime spot over the fireplace mantle...

Dreams Never End, acrylic on canvas, 30x40, 2003

Sketch transferred to canvas

2012-01-03T23:29:00.002-06:00

The photos have been taken and sketches done on paper. The next step in the commission painting was to get the composition down with charcoal on canvas.

West Loop Cityscape, composition sketch, charcoal on canvas

New Commission Painting

2012-01-02T23:10:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year! Looking forward to what 2012 brings...

So far, the art projects are falling into place: a couple of sales, a commission painting as well as a potential art reproduction project for a hotel.

I've started working on some sketches for the commission painting. The collectors live in the West Loop area of Chicago and requested a cityscape featuring rooftop water tanks. Below are the initial sketches done with charcoal and graphite on paper, along with some photos I shot for inspiration and compositional ideas.

Sketches:

Photo references:

Three new water tank paintings

2011-12-26T13:15:00.004-06:00

These paintings were just completed in the last 2 weeks while I worked on some new ones. All are based on photographs I took in New York and Chicago. I also just started on a commission painting featuring the West Loop skyline and its water tanks which has helped fuel my new-found energy for painting cityscapes and water tanks.

The Village - Bleeker St., acrylic on canvas, 24x30, 2011

Tribeca, acrylic on panel, 24x24, 2011

Pencil Tank - Roscoe Village, acrylic on canvas, 24x30, 2011

10 New Colored Cityscape Photographs

2011-12-26T12:54:00.004-06:00

I've been taking a lot of new photographs lately and working on some digital imaging for a hotel reproduction project (more to come on that soon). Below are some results where I've added different effects, textures and colors using Photoshop. Some photos are brand new and some are older photos that I recently digitally enhanced. These are all part of my colored cityscape photo series and available in various sizes.

Towering Heights, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

Fire Escapes, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

Arches, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

Fine Arts Building, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

Wrigley Building, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

West Loop Skyline, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

The Blue Tank, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

Marina Towers - River View, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

Hancock and Skyline, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

Pencil Factory, digitally enhanced photograph, 2011

A couple of water tank paintings in progress

2011-12-26T10:42:00.002-06:00

Continuing my series of water tank paintings with these two works in progress. They're at the beginning stages, building up the layers quickly and trying to keep them loose.

I'm inspired by my recent trip to New York where I took a lot of photographs of water tanks in SoHo, The Village and the Lower East Side. In the past month, I have also done some Chicago walkabouts, taking photos of water tanks and architecture in River North and the Loop to provide some inspiration.

Chelsea - NYC painting in progress

2011-12-11T14:48:00.001-06:00

Worked some more layers into this painting the last few days. Definitely more to go, but I'm liking the color palate and the looser feel.

Previously, I haven't incorporated many fire escapes into my paintings, but I'm liking it so far. It brings a more urban feel to the composition, creating strong diagonal shapes that lead your eye across the canvas.

The start of a new water tank painting

2011-12-08T16:05:00.003-06:00

This new painting (another in the water tank and cityscape series), is based on a sketch I made from a photo in Chelsea, NYC. I'm getting back in the groove with this series after a year-long hiatus. I was also asked to do a commission painting of the West Loop and its water tanks which I'll be starting soon.

New paintings finished

2011-12-08T16:05:00.001-06:00

I put the finishing touches on these paintings this week. The one in the middle is acrylic on panel and the other two are acrylic on canvas. For some of the detailed work I used conté crayons. Available soon on my website.

Paintings: faceless people -- lost in a crowd

2011-11-22T23:43:00.001-06:00

What I like about this series of paintings is the quick, loose brush strokes I used. They are based on photos and sketches of people on the street in New York City. I tried to capture the frenetic energy and movement of being on the street in Manhattan. This is also the first time I've used multiple people in a painting. Faceless people -- lost in a crowd. Usually, I just feature one person, so this was also an experiment in subject matter.

Painted most of these in late 2009. I am currently working on a new series of water tanks/cityscapes where I'm looking to bring back some of this looseness and immediacy.

There She Goes Again, acrylic on wood panel, 20x20, 2009

Times Square Crosswalk, acrylic on panel, 18x24, 2010

Yellow Dress, acrylic on canvas paper, 12x16, 2009

Blonde Cell Phone, acrylic on canvas paper, 12x16, 2009

Heading to the Subway, acrylic on canvas paper, 12x16, 2009

Headphones and Crowd, acrylic on canvas panel, 14x18, 2009

Abstracts on record album cover

2011-11-22T23:00:00.001-06:00

These are four abstract aerial landscapes painted on record album cover. Almost done...

Productive studio day

2011-10-30T22:34:00.003-05:00

A good fall weather mix of sun, clouds, slight breeze followed by dark clouds and rain made for a productive day at the studio.

I'm working on a series of water tanks. I have 3-4 in progress. This one is a painting from a photo I took near Leonard and Varick St. in Tribeca, NYC. More layers and details to go but starting to take more shape. The conté crayons are allowing me to alternate between sketch-like marks and paint. Fun process so far!

This next one is a small sketch on paper with conté crayon painted over an inkjet photo; a viewpoint near Chelsea off of the High Line in NYC. The walk along the High Line is one of the best views you'll get in Manhattan.

This sketch is an attempt to get the composition and cropping down, which explains the various border markings. I will eventually be turning it into a large-scale painting on a 36"x36" wood panel.

I haven't touched this next painting for about a year until today. Using conté crayons, I sketched over areas of the painting to create more depth and to give it a more immediate feel. Still more to go but it's feeling a lot closer to being done now. This is based on a close-up up Boticelli's Birth of Venus.

Thanks to those supporting local artists

2011-10-22T11:02:00.003-05:00

Earlier this month I sold these three water tank paintings along with a screen print and photo at my studio during Ravenswood Art Walk. It's always great to sell some art but nice to have the support during this downturn in the economy. My wife and I decided that we needed to add more art to our collection so we took the money and bought a few pieces ourselves recently.

CBGB's Photos - 5 years closed

2011-10-20T22:00:00.000-05:00

CBGB's - home of underground rock since the early 70's closed 5 years ago in October 2006. I was in NYC shortly after it closed and took shots of the exterior. The next day, I rode by in a cab on the way to the airport -- and the sign and graffiti were gone -- just painted white as if it never existed. But it did, 30 years of punk and alternative music blasted away on its stage. I was there a few times in the 90's -- way beyond it's late 70's and early 80's heyday -- but it still was cool. Dark, dingy, loud, smelly. You felt the musical history oozing out of the speakers and dripping down the walls.

More progress - NYC watertanks

2011-10-17T15:51:00.001-05:00

I've added some more colors with art stix and paint. Building up the layers and trying to keep it loose. Working to give this new series a more immediate and sketch-like feel. Striving to capture the frenetic energy of the city. The painting below is based on a photograph I took in New York in The Village off of Bleeker St.

Art Walk + Open Studios This Weekend

2011-09-30T11:54:00.002-05:00

It's the 10th Annual Ravenswood Art Walk this weekend, October 1-2. The Cornelia Arts Building (where I've had my studio for 5 years) is celebrating 25 years as a working artists' building.

Lots of art to see + food, drinks, live music. Come by the art walk and be sure to stop and say hello.

Ravenswood Art Walk
From Cornelia north to Lawrence
website

Cornelia Arts Building
1800 W. Cornelia
Studio #201
map

Here's a studio sneak peak:

water tank paintings in progress

2011-09-30T11:45:00.002-05:00

Here are a few water tank paintings I've been working on this week. Combining acrylic and prisma stix. Two are on canvas and one on panel with a collaged map.

Stop by the Cornelia Arts Building Open Studios and Ravenswood Art Walk to see in person.

The Village, New York City

2011-09-18T16:46:00.001-05:00

A new painting in progress based on one of my photos. On the Village/SoHo border, near Bleeker St.

New water tank and L tracks painting

2011-09-18T15:23:00.001-05:00

Took a walk today near the studio. This painting is based on the photo I took on that walk. Still a work in progress but gets me back to painting city scenes and water tanks.

New Aerial Landscape Paintings

2011-09-16T12:54:00.000-05:00

These five new paintings were finished a few weeks ago. They are part of my aerial landscapes series based on maps and overviews of the landscape. This particular set of paintings took on a new color palate with shapes and colors that resembled various reptiles, which is where the names came from. Enjoy!

Gecko River, acrylic on canvas, 36x36, 2011

Tortoise Delta, acrylic on canvas, 36x36, 2011

Turtlehead Lake, acrylic on canvas, 36x36, 2011

Rattlesnake Ridge, acrylic on canvas, 20x20, 2011

Snapper Islands, acrylic on canvas, 20x20, 2011

RAWednesday DIY Art Marketing Event

2011-09-14T14:29:00.002-05:00

I'll be participating in a panel discussion tonight about DIY Marketing. It's part of the RAWednesday series of events. It's free and you can still sign-up!

Sign-up here: http://rawednesdaysept2011.eventbrite.com/

Ravenswood Event Center
4011 N. Ravenswood Ave.
2nd floor (follow the 2010 posters once inside)
Chicago, IL 60613

Art at Transistor

2011-08-28T22:22:00.005-05:00

As of last weekend, I have a some screen prints on record album up now at Transistor. The shop just moved locations from Andersonville to Ravenswood/North Center (on Lincoln near Trader Joe's).

I just moved back to an apartment in Andersonville but the new Transistor location is, coincidentally, three blocks from my art studio. I'm excited to be a part of this great space with its mix of art, music, books, electronics, live music, DJ's, film screenings and art classes.

Thanks to Andy and Rani for inviting me to show at Transistor! Here are some photos of my art on the wall behind the DJ area:

Rooftop Water Tanks 
Rooftop water tanks are a unique architectural feature in cities - especially Chicago and New York. They are a link to our industrial past and a disappearing element of the cityscape. Due to the decline of these structures, I've been making it a point to photograph them when I see them. These photos are then used for reference in my cityscape paintings or as the main focal point of my screen prints.   

This series of screen prints created on record album covers uses a photograph I took of a water tank on Kingsbury Street in Chicago. I used acrylic to paint over record album covers, then screen printed the water tank image on top, allowing some of the original album art or text to show through.

I enjoy the multi-faceted process of screen printing and the experimental nature of the medium. I like to work quickly so screen printing lets me create many images at once.

going back to nature

2011-06-30T23:58:00.023-05:00

Just realized that I didn't post in June. So, here's one in just under the wire...

I've been getting inspiration from nature lately. For about the last month, I've sketched trees in a forest preserve on my lunch hour. Took some photos too. Then started some paintings (still in progress). It's been fun starting something new. I'm also enjoying how the three mediums are influencing each other and the way I work.

Some paintings in progress

2011-05-25T16:46:00.000-05:00

Still working on the aerial landscapes but breaking out into a different color palate...

Once these are done, I think I'll move on to a different subject matter. Been sketching out some ideas...

Open Studios - Tonite @ Cornelia Arts Building

2011-05-13T12:39:00.002-05:00

Open Studios
Cornelia Arts Building
May 13th 6-10pm
1800 W. Cornelia
Chicago, IL 60657

I'll be showing new paintings and photographs.

Stop by my studio #201 on the second floor for a drink!

corneliaartsbuilding.com

Interview with neotericART

2011-05-13T12:31:00.001-05:00

I was asked to do an interview from neotericART a few weeks ago. It's now posted along with some images of my art. Great site full of interesting articles and interviews with artists. Read interview here.

Interview - neotericART

Open Studios - Sneak Peak

2011-05-11T11:10:00.000-05:00

Got everything hung last night at the studio. Some work in the hallway too. I'm showing a mix of new abstract paintings and cityscape photography.

Cornelia Arts Building Open Studios
Friday May 13th, 6-10pm
1800 W. Cornelia
Chicago, IL 60657

Stop by my space upstairs - Studio #201

Art, drinks, food, and live music throughout the building!

corneliaartsbuilding.com

new business cards

2011-05-09T21:47:00.000-05:00

Got some new business cards printed and received them this weekend. They'll hold me over until I do a website redesign and update my logo, etc... VistaPrint.com = cheap!

Abstract Aerial Landscape Painting in Progress

2011-04-30T14:08:00.001-05:00

I started working on this last week. It needs more texture and lots more layers but the composition is starting to come together. I may also change the orientation of it since it looks good a couple different ways.

abstract aerial landscape (work in progress), 2011

Creator Camp Chicago

2011-04-29T16:08:00.001-05:00

Creator Camp Chicago is coming soon. This is a new half-day event focused on creativity, ideas, and sharing knowledge. Early bird registration ends soon - sign up today! A lot of great info and it's only $15 bucks. $20 after May 1.

More info: http://creatorcampchicago.tumblr.com
Registration: http://creatorcampchicago.eventbrite.com

New Abstract Aerial Landscape Paintings

2011-04-23T09:18:00.007-05:00

New paintings finished and framed. Part of my aerial landscapes series I've been working on over the past year or so, they are inspired by travel, maps and the natural landscape.

Bottle Cove, acrylic on artist board (framed), 6x8, 2011

Jawtown Lake, acrylic on artist board (framed), 6x8, 2011

Beach Point, acrylic on artist board (framed), 6x8, 2011

Nose Island, acrylic on artist board (framed), 6x8, 2011

Tube Bay, acrylic on artist board (framed), 6x8, 2011

New Photo on Canvas

2011-04-19T21:59:00.002-05:00

I received my new photo printed on canvas today in the mail. Looks pretty good large scale. I took it in Amsterdam in September 2010 during an early morning walk. Such a great city and everyone riding bikes everywhere is pretty cool...

Spiderbikes (Amsterdam), photograph, 16x20, 2010

This photo will be on view at the Cornelia Open Studios - Friday May 13th.

More info: http://www.corneliaartsbuilding.com/press.html

Hope you can make it!

Right side up or upside down

2011-04-13T12:38:00.001-05:00

I'm working on a new abstract aerial landscape painting but can't decide on orientation. Still some more layers to go -- as I paint I shift the orientation periodically. It will probably be obvious later as to how it looks better...What do you think?

Right side up:

abstract aerial landscape, acrylic on canvas (work in progress)

Or, upside down:

abstract aerial landscape, acrylic on canvas (work in progress)

Chicago Skyline photo featured at Sheraton Suites

2011-04-06T13:26:00.005-05:00

Several years ago, I was contacted by Atlanta art consultant, Faulkner + Locke requesting to license my art for one of their clients. It turned out that they wanted one of my photographs for a remodeling project for the Sheraton Suites Elk Grove Village, IL hotel featuring Chicago-specific art.

I finally dropped by the hotel this week to check it out. My Chicago Skyline photograph is hanging in all 250 suites along with other Chicago art! It's a large scale giclée print on canvas about 2 feet by 3 feet in size. I even received my own print which I recently had framed by Blackbird Gallery + Framing.

Here are some shots from one of the suites:

And outside:

Cityscape Photos @ Urbanest in Andersonville

2011-03-30T21:47:00.001-05:00

My new cityscape photos are up at Urbanest in Andersonville. Check out the new Urbanest website!

These photographs of Chicago, New York, and San Francisco are from my cityscapes series, where I digitally manipulate the images to create new colors and textures of cityscapes and architecture. I travel frequently and it's always inspiring to discover a city (or new area of familiar place) by walking around taking photos.

Info: All photos are 16x20 archival prints, matted, signed, framed.

Chicago Ave El Stop, digitally enhanced photograph

Chicago Skyline (Salmon Sky), digitally enhanced photograph

New York Skyline (Midtown), photograph

San Francisco Skyline, digitally enhanced photograph

Empire State Water Tank, photograph

Urbanest, installation view

New Photos Printed and Framed

2011-03-26T10:34:00.000-05:00

I received the large cityscape photos from iprintfromhome.com this week. Great print service! They're now framed and ready to go. Bringing them over to Urbanest today to have hung in the store...

Detailed views of new paintings

2011-03-20T22:04:00.006-05:00

These are close-up details of the new paintings I just finished. All are acrylic on canvas. Will be added to swallowstudios.com and available for sale soon...

bikini beach (detail)

shoreline (detail)

clawhead lake (detail)

neck river valley (detail)

waterfall (detail)

New Aerial Landscapes - Finished

2011-03-20T21:13:00.002-05:00

Five new aerial landscapes paintings. Acrylic on canvas. Sides are painted and got them all varnished today. Here are the working names of these:

Bikini Beach
Clawhead Lake
Shoreline
Neck Valley River
Waterfall

I'm also working on a bunch of others. Here's another two in progress - lots more layers to go...

New abstract aerial landscape paintings in progress

2011-02-27T23:43:00.000-06:00

abstract surfaces. lines, dots. new color palate. traveling paintings of the inner landscape.

I have 23 abstract aerial landscape paintings going right now. They are all in various stages but these five are the largest and most complete so far.

Lots of layers and textures that I keep adding to each week. Should be done by spring; or June - whichever comes first.

Ravenswood PinkWalk - Locations and Schedule

2011-02-26T14:53:00.000-06:00

I'll have a photograph and some abstract paintings up at Blackbird Gallery. There are several other venues and over 100 artists - come check it out tomorrow Noon-5pm.

Sponsored by House Beautiful Magazine and a portion of the proceeds from any work sold will go to the Ravenswood Elementary School art program.

More Info:
http://www.ravenswoodartwalk.org
http://www.housebeautiful.com/powerofpink

Hope you can make it!

Art Featured in Ravenswood PinkWalk

2011-02-23T18:21:00.000-06:00

In addition to my Chicago cityscape photograph, I was able to add a few abstract pieces at Blackbird Gallery for the Ravenswood PinkWalk sponsored by House Beautiful magazine.

Pulmonary Embolism #1, acrylic on record album cover (framed), 12x12, 2010

Pulmonary Embolism #2, acrylic on record album cover (framed), 12x12, 2010

Pulmonary Embolism #3, acrylic on record album cover (framed), 12x12, 2010

Ravenswood PinkWalk
Sunday, February 27 from Noon – 5 P.M.
along Ravenswood Avenue near Montrose

There will be giveaways of pink chairs randomly placed on the streets in Ravenswood for anyone to take. Check out House Beautiful magazine for more info.

See you there!

Ravenswood PinkWalk - Feb 27th

2011-02-19T16:29:00.001-06:00

Chicago Skyline (pink salmon), photograph

I've been asked to show a piece of art in the Ravenswood PinkWalk sponsored by House Beautiful Magazine. The theme ties in to their March issue featuring the color pink so I figured the above photograph would be a good choice.

My piece will be featured in a group show at Blackbird Gallery 4428 N. Ravenswood Avenue, Chicago, IL 60640. Stop by if you can! Brown Line to Montrose.

Ravenswood PinkWalk
Sunday, February 27^th from Noon – 5 P.M.
along Ravenswood Avenue

There will be giveaways of pink chairs randomly placed on the streets in Ravenswood for anyone to take.

Paintings in Progress and Cornelia Open House

2011-02-03T21:33:00.000-06:00

Before the blizzard of 2011 and everything grinding to a halt, I added some more layers of paint to these works in progress last weekend.

The Cornelia Arts Building Open House happens this Saturday Noon-4pm
Unfortunately, I won't be attending but studio #201 should be open. Stop by, say hello to Eric and Jeff and check out all the new art happening in our studio!

abstract works in progress, acrylic on canvas, 2011

works in progress on canvas, 1.28.11

2011-01-29T15:54:00.000-06:00

works in progress on canvas, 1.28.11

A good Friday night painting session. Pizza, beer, music cranked while my studio mate, Eric painted figurative narratives across the room.

These paintings in progress are from my continued abstract aerial landscape series. They're starting to take more shape now as I add more layers and introduce new colors. It's also been fun to paint on the wall again instead of the floor or easel.

Abstract works in progress

2011-01-16T22:10:00.003-06:00

These paintings are part of my new series of abstracts done in a square format. Travel plays a roll in this series -- referencing maps, aerial landscapes, nature and the figure. My goal with these paintings is to convey more immediacy and to not overwork them. I'm going for a looser quality with less detail and more focus on the larger shapes and textures. Right now I have about 17 paintings going at once.

abstract works in progress on canvas, 1.16.11

abstract works in progress on record album cover, 1.16.11

New year, new painting in progress

2011-01-02T19:27:00.000-06:00

My first new painting of 2011 is a continuation of the series of figural abstracts I started recently. More to do, but the basic shapes and composition are there.

Figural Abstract #4, acrylic on canvas, work in progress 2010

End of the year paintings

2010-12-30T21:57:00.004-06:00

Today will probably be my last painting session of 2010. It was a good one -- productive; just about finished three paintings, started four more, and began a new figural abstract series at the same time. I also shot some video which I'll post later.

These paintings are partially figurative-based and partially based on landscapes from above. I purposely tried to work fast and loose in a sketch-like expressionist style. I used various tools to create textures and layers to develop a depth when viewed up close.

Figural Abstract #1, acrylic on canvas, work in progress 2010

Figural Abstract #2, acrylic on canvas, work in progress 2010

New Water Tanks paintings

2010-12-05T13:09:00.002-06:00

These water tank paintings on loft buildings are based on photographs I've taken in Chicago and New York. I painted them at the same time going back-and-forth using the same color palate. They're on canvas paper and framed with a black wood frame.

Bookstore Loft on Broadway, acrylic on canvas paper (framed), 12x16, 2010, $125

Downtown Water Tanks, acrylic on canvas paper (framed), 12x16, 2010, $125

SoHo Tanks, acrylic on canvas paper (framed), 12x16, 2010, $125

Rooftop Water Tank, acrylic on canvas paper (framed), 12x16, 2010, $125

New Installation at Urbanest

2010-11-28T20:39:00.001-06:00

Water tanks, Urbanest Installation, November 2010

I recently switched out my paintings as Urbanest. Up now in the store are three new water tanks finished in October 2010 along with one from 2008.

Green Water Tank, acrylic on canvas, 2010, $350
Red Water Tank, acrylic on canvas, 24x24, 2010, $350
Pink Water Tank, acrylic on canvas, 24x24, 2010, $350
Water Tank Blues, acrylic on canvas, 36x48, 2008, $850

Stop by this weekend for LATE NITE ANDERSONVILLE!

Urbanest
5212 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60640

View Larger Map

Large Abstract Painting in Progress

2010-11-28T20:24:00.003-06:00

I've been working on this on and off for about a month, using paint left over from some other paintings I have going. It's been an experimental canvas to work on (actually paper). It started off with a screen print pattern which you can still see in some areas. It has now morphed into a combination of my aerial landscapes and abstract pulmonary embolism paintings. I began the painting with it on the floor of my studio. Now it's tacked and taped to the wall. A fun piece to paint so far. Let's see where it goes...

Paintings in progress + open studios

2010-11-17T22:51:00.006-06:00

I have a couple of works in progress: one is a large abstract on paper and the other is a face painting on canvas. Get a preview before they're finished - this Friday night at the Cornelia Arts Building Open Studios. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend. However, my studio will be open - drop by and see my studio mate's art:

Eric Weinstein and Jeff Bryner.

Cornelia Arts Building - Studio #201
1800 W. Cornelia, Chicago, IL 60657
http://corneliaartsbuilding.com
http://www.facebook.com/CorneliaArtsBuilding

Some studio pics are below...

New iPhone Painting: The Crosswalk

2010-11-07T23:55:00.001-06:00

The Crosswalk, digital iphone painting, 2010

This was done from a sketch compiled from a couple photos I took of people in a crosswalk in downtown New York. Part of my new iphone paintings series.

Painting in Progress: Sad Eyed Lady

2010-11-07T22:14:00.004-06:00

Sad Eyed Lady, acrylic on canvas, 36x48, 2010 (work in progress)

This painting was started a week ago and still has a ways to go. Need to build up the layers and details of her face some more. The hair needs more depth - like in Botticelli's Birth of Venus.

The working name of it is "Sad Eyed Lady", inspired by Dylan's song Sad Eyed Lady of the Lowlands from my favorite album of his, Blonde on Blonde.

Overall, I'm happy with the composition but I think it needs more contrast between the face and background. Gotta add in some more highlights and lighter tones to give more three dimensionality to her face.

More to come...

New: Digital iPhone Paintings

2010-10-31T12:28:00.002-05:00

I've been experimenting with the Brushes app on the iPhone. Here are my first digital iphone paintings derived from sketches and photographs.

Golden Gate Bridge, digital iphone painting, 2010

Chicago Skyline, digital iphone painting, 2010

Field of Trees, digital iphone painting, 2010

Spider Tree, digital iphone painting, 2010

Two Tanks, digital iphone painting, 2010

New Painting: Green Water Tank

2010-10-28T22:32:00.000-05:00

Green Water Tank, acrylic on canvas, 24x24, 2010

This is my most recent finished painting. Part of my city by the lake series. I'm working on some other ones in a similar palate but smaller size.

Art Walk + Open Studios - This Weekend

2010-09-30T13:50:00.004-05:00

Hope you can make it out this weekend to the Ravenswood Art Walk and Cornelia Arts Building Open Studios. Lots of new work to show including the below paintings.

Pulmonary Embolism #1, acrylic on record album cover (framed), 12x12, 2010

Pulmonary Embolism #2, acrylic on record album cover (framed), 12x12, 2010

Pulmonary Embolism #3, acrylic on record album cover (framed), 12x12, 2010

October 2nd-3rd, we're having open studios at the Cornelia Arts Building. It's the 24th annual open studios and part of the 9th annual Ravenswood Art Walk.

There will be plenty of art, music, food, and drinks - stop on by!

OPEN STUDIOS + RAVENSWOOD ART WALK
October 2-3, 2010 - 11am-5pm
Cornelia Arts Building
1800 W. Cornelia, Studio 201
Chicago, IL 60657

MORE INFO:
Cornelia Arts Building - #48 on the Ravenswood Art Walk map.
Ravenswood Art Walk - get a map and check out all of spaces in the Ravenswood cooridor.

New paintings + open studios

2010-09-28T23:09:00.004-05:00

Pink Water Tank, acrylic on canvas, 24x24, 2010

Red Water Tank, acrylic on canvas, 24x24, 2010

OPEN STUDIOS + RAVENSWOOD ART WALK
October 2-3, 2010 - 11am-5pm
Cornelia Arts Building
1800 W. Cornelia, Studio 201
Chicago, IL 60657

Many new paintings on display including these water tanks!

Cornelia Open Studios - October 2nd-3rd

2010-09-26T23:53:00.007-05:00

This coming weekend, October 2nd-3rd, we're having open studios at the Cornelia Arts Building. It's the 24th annual open studios and part of the 9th annual Ravenswood Art Walk.

There will be plenty of art, music, food, and drinks - stop on by!

OPEN STUDIOS + RAVENSWOOD ART WALK
October 2-3, 2010 - 11am-5pm
Cornelia Arts Building
1800 W. Cornelia, Studio 201
Chicago, IL 60657

MORE INFO:
Cornelia Arts Building - #48 on the Ravenswood Art Walk map.
Ravenswood Art Walk - get a map and check out all of spaces in the Ravenswood cooridor.

Also coming up soon...

ANDERSONVILLE ARTS WEEKEND
October 8-10, 2010
I'll be showing paintings at Urbanest - 5212 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640

Hope you can make it out!

-Kevin

Abstracts for NextWave Art Salon

2010-09-05T23:08:00.004-05:00

I'll be showing these five abstract paintings as a work in progress during the NextWave Art Salon, in Elgin, IL September 10-11. The theme is "working" and all artists were asked to create two pieces. I'm definitely working toward something new with these paintings. Some of the shapes are based on charcoal sketches I've been doing of nature and maps of aerial landscapes. I'm also dubbing these my "work stress" paintings since my day job has been stressful lately.

New Painting: River Running Over

2010-08-29T23:15:00.007-05:00

River Running Over, acrylic on canvas, 30x40, 2010

This new painting bridges my abstracts series and aerial landscapes series. I created it specifically for my new show of abstracts at The Writers WorkSpace in Chicago.

I hung the show over the weekend - it features abstracts from 1999-2010. Hopefully the paintings will inspire some of the professional freelance writers, authors, and novelists that work out of this space.

The show runs through the end of the year (maybe beyond). Starting to think about plans for a fall event. I'll post some installation pics soon...

Some Recently Sold Paintings

2010-08-29T10:48:00.010-05:00

I'm excited to announce a few recently sold paintings. I consider myself very lucky to be able sell art in this bad economy. A special thank you to my Chicago and Minnesota collectors - your generous support means a lot!

Sunset on the Brown Line, acrylic on wood panel, 80x30, 2009

There She Goes Again, acrylic on wood panel, 20x20, 2009

Times Square Crosswalk, acrylic on panel, 18x24, 2010

Three Water Tanks - works in progress

2010-07-18T21:42:00.004-05:00

Three Water Tanks, works in progress, July 2010

Pink Water Tank, work in progress, July 2010Red Water Tank, work in progress, July 2010

Yellow Water Tank, work in progress, July 2010

These acrylic on canvas paintings are my start of a new series of water tanks based on photos I've taken mostly in Chicago and New York. I've also referenced some images found on the internet to sketch out some different compositions.

I'm trying to keep these looser - heavily textured but still in my style. I'm also working to expand my palate by introducing some new colors while developing a more immediate sketch-like feel.

While not totally complete, they were done quickly - in about 3 hours today. Probably have about another hour total to go until they're finished.

Painting in Progress: Manhattan - July 2010

2010-07-08T22:35:00.004-05:00

Manhattan, acrylic on canvas, work in progress, 7.08.10

The aerial landscape of Manhattan is close to finished. A couple more layers in some areas and some highlights and it'll be done. I have a couple more paintings just at the beginning stages - one is a larger view of the NYC area and the other is a close-up of the mid section of Manhattan.

Manhattan, acrylic on canvas, painting in progress, 2010

2010-06-13T21:48:00.007-05:00

Manhattan, acrylic on canvas, painting in progress, 2010

This painting in progress is the farthest along of my New York series of aerial landscapes. I recently returned from a long weekend in NYC, so this is a good time to paint my impression of the city. Manhattan is the focus in this piece but you can see parts of Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island, and New Jersey.

I'm trying to keep this piece looser and more abstract with a thicker application of paint -- adding more detail and texture as I build up the layers. There is now green space around 3/4 of Manhattan along with Central Park and the other parks in Lower Manhattan. As cities increase their populations, it's becoming more and more important to preserve the parks and outdoor space. If you've ever laid on the grass in Central Park on a Sunday afternoon, you know how relaxing it can be.

I'm also working to highlight the importance of the waterways in this large metro area. You can also see elements of industry in the outlying boroughs which is still an important aspect of New York's infrastructure. One of my next steps will be to add the bridges...

Aerial Landscapes - Urbanest Installation, June 2010

2010-06-13T21:28:00.003-05:00

Aerial Landscapes - Urbanest Installation, June 2010

Urbanest has hung some additional aerial landscapes to include the Chicago series. It's now a mix of Chicago and Michigan aerial landscapes.

This series of paintings explores the colors and shapes of landscapes and waterways from above. They are based on images from Google maps as well as photographs I've taken from an airplane while traveling. They were painted mostly lying flat on a table so that I worked above the canvas as I painted them.

While these images relate to a universal travel experience (looking out an airplane window), they also draw attention to water in our environment - something that is abundant but is becoming a much more valuable and scarce commodity around the world. Living near Lake Michigan and in the Great Lakes region highlights water's impact on our day-to-day lives - whether we live in the city or rural area. It's something that we often take for granted but cannot do without.

New Painting: South Branch - Chicago River

2010-05-31T21:59:00.002-05:00

South Branch - Chicago River, acrylic on canvas, 2010

Newly finished but still need to shoot some better photos, paint the sides, and varnish it. Ready for hanging soon...

Urbanest May 2010 - Aerial Landscapes

2010-05-25T21:33:00.005-05:00

Urbanest has moved a few doors down to a new location at 5212 N. Clark St. in Andersonville. I'm debuting my new Michigan aerial landscapes. These are a few installation shots...

Urbanest May 2010 - Aerial Landscapes, installation view

Studio Peek - May 2010

2010-05-25T21:18:00.001-05:00

Studio set up for the May 2010 Cornelia Open House

Open Studios This Friday

2010-05-17T21:58:00.002-05:00

Cornelia Arts Building Friday Night Open Studios!

Friday, May 21st, 6-10pm
1800 W. Cornelia
Chicago, IL 60657

Special feature: A curated hallway exhibit featuring CAB artists inspired by Chicago's Latin motto, "Urbs in Horto" meaning City in a Garden.

More information and art preview available on the Cornelia Arts Building website: http://corneliaartsbuilding.com.

Stop by studio #201 to see my recent aerial landscape paintings of Chicago and Michigan.

Hope to see you!

Painting in Progress: Chicago River

2010-05-14T23:04:00.005-05:00

Another aerial landscape painting in progress featuring the Chicago River. It's probably about halfway through and still needs some more layers and texture. I'm also working on a few other smaller studies on canvas paper that you can see in the foreground.

Chicago River (Aerial Landscape), acrylic on canvas, work in progress, 2010

New Painting: Goose Island (Aerial Landscape)

2010-05-11T21:13:00.003-05:00

Goose Island (Aerial Landscape), acrylic on canvas, 24x36, 2010, $550

Newly finished painting this week. It's the third in my Chicago series of my aerial landscapes. I'm working on a fourth one which is at the beginning stages along with some smaller studies. I'll post some shots of that soon.

Painting in Progress: Goose Island (aerial landscape)

2010-04-26T21:35:00.002-05:00

goose island (aerial landscape), work in progress, acrylic on canvas

This new 24x36 acrylic on canvas is starting to come along. I've been building up the higher values with pinks and greens. It's abut 75% there and will be ready with a little more layering of colors, some darker contrasts, and re-painting the borders of the water.

Drawing in the studio

2010-04-21T21:58:00.006-05:00

In the studio working on some preparatory sketches for my Chicago aerial landscapes series.

New Paintings: Chicago Aerial Landscapes

2010-04-18T20:34:00.005-05:00

I finished these two paintings this week. They are the first in the Chicago series of aerial landscapes. The first one is the north side with a view of Montrose and Belmont Harbors. The second one is a view of South Chicago and Lake Calumet along the Illinois/Indiana border.

Montrose and Belmont Harbors, acrylic on canvas, 18x24, 2010

Lake Calumet-South Chicago, acrylic on canvas, 22x28, 2010

Painting in Progress: Goose Island

2010-03-28T21:59:00.005-05:00

Goose Island, acrylic on canvas (work in progress), 2010

This is the second painting in progress in the Chicago aerial landscapes series. It's a view of Goose Island, River North, and the lakefront north of Navy Pier.

Here's what it looks like together with the Montrose Harbor one I have going too.

Chicago aerial landscapes in progress, 3.28.10

New Painting: Montrose Point

2010-03-24T00:05:00.002-05:00

montrose point, acrylic on canvas - work in progress, 2010

This is a start to a new aerial landscapes series based on Chicago - specifically Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. This particular painting is a view of the Belmont and Montrose Harbors area on the north side. It's a great spot along the lake - beach, harbor, dog park, soccer fields, golf course, tennis courts, bike trails, bird sanctuary, and nature preserve. It's probably my favorite area along the lake with some of the best views of the skyline that you'll get.

New Paintings: Aerial Landscapes - Studio Installation

2010-03-15T21:58:00.016-05:00

Aerial Landscapes - Studio Installation, acrylic on canvas, 2010

These aerial landscapes are my first completed paintings of the new year. I ended 2009/started off 2010 working on cityscapes with people, but deciding a few weeks ago to switch to abstracts of aerial landscapes. I've been kicking around this idea for a while - combing my environmental concerns with my interests in maps and travel.

This series explores the colors and shapes of urban and rural landscapes from above. These paintings are based on photographs I took from an airplane of the Lake St. Clair and St. Clair River along the Canadian/Michigan border while while flying from New York. I also like the idea of painting an impression of a place I've never physically been - just flew over. They were painted mostly lying flat on a table so that I worked above the canvas as I painted them.

While these images relate to a universal travel experience (looking out an airplane window), they also draw attention to water in our environment - something that is abundant but is becoming a much more valuable and scarce commodity around the world. Living near Lake Michigan and in the Great Lakes region highlights water's ubiquity and it's impact on our day-to-day lives - whether we live in the city or rural area. It's also something that we often take for granted.

Click here to view the aerial landscapes paintings

Cornelia Arts Building Open House - This Friday

2010-03-10T19:29:00.002-06:00

Cornelia Arts Building Open House

WHEN: Friday, March 12th from 6-10pm
WHERE: 1800 W. Cornelia, Chicago, IL 60657

Stop by my studio #201 and say hello.

Featuring more than 30 local artists (and FOTA members) working in a range of media, the regular Open House at the Cornelia Arts Building is a family-friendly event that highlights the contribution of local artists to Chicago’s cultural scene.

Open House events offer an inside-look at working artists studios, and an opportunity to view up-and-coming talent as well as work by established arts professionals. Artwork on display includes paintings and drawings, sculpture, photography, print making, ceramics, mixed media, and jewelry. This is a FREE event.

http://corneliaartsbuilding.com

New Paintings: Aerial Landscapes

2010-03-10T19:25:00.003-06:00

The first aerial landscapes series is finished. About two weeks and 30-40 hours of painting time. The photo doesn't really show all of the layers and colors. Come check out the details up close at the Cornelia Arts Building Open House Friday night.

New Paintings: abstract aerial landscapes

2010-02-28T21:10:00.004-06:00

abstract aerial landscapes (works in progress), acrylic on canvas

I spent more time working on this new series today. I painted them at the same time so that they all have consistent color harmony. The earth tone color palate for this series is slightly different than what I usually use. I will be adding a little more texture on the water and the finishing up some of the lines. 90% finished with these four pieces - still time to do one large one before the Cornelia Arts Building open studios.

New direction - abstract aerial landscapes

2010-02-27T23:51:00.004-06:00

water series (works in progress), acrylic on canvas, 2010

This is a new direction for me. A similar color palate that I normally use but the rivers and lakes imagery and abstract style is different for me. I haven't done abstracts for a long time so it feels good to explore - focusing more on the colors and shapes vs. image details.

The rivers and lakes are based on aerial photographs I took from an airplane somewhere over Michigan/Canadian border. So far, there are four paintings in the works with more to come. I'm shooting to have these done in time for the Cornelia Arts Building open house on March 12th. If I can, I'll thrown in a larger-scale piece too.

Painting in Progress: paris - latin quarter - grass

2010-02-11T00:03:00.002-06:00

This painting based on a photo from the Latin Quarter in Paris, now has grass and a park-like setting. There is no park in the original photo. I added it in because there are so many parks and open spaces or plazas in Paris. Along with the short buildings, it doesn't feel as dense as it really is. I'm thinking I might embellish this scene further by changing the street to the Canal St. Martin - a great place for a picnic in the afternoon.

Painting in Progress: paris - latin quarter - color

2010-01-31T21:43:00.004-06:00

This is the initial color stage of this new painting, paris - latin quarter. It's acrylic on canvas and size is 24x48 inches.

Painting in Progress: paris - latin quarter

2010-01-24T22:06:00.004-06:00

paris - latin quarter (work in progress), acrylic on canvas, 24x48

This is another new painting based on a photograph I took near La Sorbonne in the Latin Quarter in Paris. I just started it today. It needs a little more compositional tweaking but I'm happy with the large figure in the foreground, especially his right eye.

This brings me to six paintings that I'm currently working on of street scenes. I think I'm starting to hit a stride with this new direction. It should keep me busy between now and the next Studio Open House, March 12th: 6PM-10PM.

New couch in the studio

2010-01-24T21:58:00.006-06:00

The latest addition to Studio 201...a new couch:

Thanks to Alley, a fellow Cornelia resident artist who was giving away this couch! It fits well in the space by the window and adds a nice pop of color.

Painting in Progress: In the field (1.17.10)

2010-01-17T22:44:00.004-06:00

In the field (work in progress), 1.17.10

This painting is morphing into something a little more sculpted with thicker paint. It used to be flatter and looked like this. I erased the old, busier background by trying to bring in brighter colors with more subtle changes in tone. I think I have the composition down now, but want to add some detail while building up more textured layers of paint.

Abstract Paintings at Urbanest

2010-01-10T13:08:00.003-06:00

I'm currently showing some abstract paintings at Urbanest in Andersonville. 5228 North Clark St. in Chicago. They hung them nicely and look pretty good with their home furnishings. I'm also happy to announce that they've given me a permanent display wall to showcase my art.

Stop by or click here to view more shots.

Cornelia Arts Building - Snow!

2010-01-07T23:15:00.004-06:00

In the studio: prepairing a painting

2010-01-07T16:19:00.004-06:00

Some recent shots my wife took of me in the studio as I prepared a canvas for a new painting...

This is a partial shot of my main display wall.

Painting in Progress: Montmartre - latest update 12.27.09

2010-01-07T13:29:00.004-06:00

montmarte (work in progress), latest update - 12.27.09

Making some more progress and adding depth to the background. Will be tackling the foreground and adding more detail to the people. Haven't spent a whole lot of time painting the last week or two since I've been focusing on re-organizing my studio space.

Painting in Progress: Montmartre - Paris

2009-12-18T00:02:00.003-06:00

Montmartre - Paris, acrylic on canvas, 30x40 (work in progress)

This is continues my new series of paintings based on street scene photos I've taken. This particular one is based on a photo from my first visit to the Montmartre district in Paris. Cobblestone streets, greenery, people out and about taking in the street life and cafes...

montmartre photo reference 2009

Painting: Midtown (work in progress)

2009-12-18T00:00:00.003-06:00

Midtown, acrylic on panel (work in progress)

This painting is coming along but needs some detail added. Originally, I wasn't going to include the details on the faces but now I'm leaning toward adding a little something.

swallowstudios blog

Water tank studies

New Show of Screen Prints - Scot's Bar

Video view of West Loop commission painting

Studio Peek

Cityscapes - new youtube video posted

Snow day!

Water tanks - studio installation

The start of the West Loop Cityscape commission painting

Sold painting - "Dreams Never End"

Sketch transferred to canvas

New Commission Painting

Three new water tank paintings

10 New Colored Cityscape Photographs

A couple of water tank paintings in progress

Chelsea - NYC painting in progress

The start of a new water tank painting

New paintings finished

Paintings: faceless people -- lost in a crowd

Abstracts on record album cover

Productive studio day

Thanks to those supporting local artists

CBGB's Photos - 5 years closed

More progress - NYC watertanks

Art Walk + Open Studios This Weekend

water tank paintings in progress

The Village, New York City

New water tank and L tracks painting

New Aerial Landscape Paintings

RAWednesday DIY Art Marketing Event

Ravenswood Event Center 4011 N. Ravenswood Ave. 2nd floor (follow the 2010 posters once inside) Chicago, IL 60613

Art at Transistor

going back to nature

Some paintings in progress

Open Studios - Tonite @ Cornelia Arts Building

Interview with neotericART

Open Studios - Sneak Peak

new business cards

Abstract Aerial Landscape Painting in Progress

Creator Camp Chicago

New Abstract Aerial Landscape Paintings

New Photo on Canvas

Right side up or upside down

Chicago Skyline photo featured at Sheraton Suites

Cityscape Photos @ Urbanest in Andersonville

New Photos Printed and Framed

Detailed views of new paintings

New Aerial Landscapes - Finished

New abstract aerial landscape paintings in progress

Ravenswood PinkWalk - Locations and Schedule

Art Featured in Ravenswood PinkWalk

Ravenswood PinkWalk - Feb 27th

Paintings in Progress and Cornelia Open House

works in progress on canvas, 1.28.11

Abstract works in progress

New year, new painting in progress

End of the year paintings

New Water Tanks paintings

New Installation at Urbanest

Large Abstract Painting in Progress

Paintings in progress + open studios

New iPhone Painting: The Crosswalk

Painting in Progress: Sad Eyed Lady

New: Digital iPhone Paintings

New Painting: Green Water Tank

Art Walk + Open Studios - This Weekend

New paintings + open studios

Cornelia Open Studios - October 2nd-3rd

Abstracts for NextWave Art Salon

New Painting: River Running Over

Some Recently Sold Paintings

Three Water Tanks - works in progress

Painting in Progress: Manhattan - July 2010

Manhattan, acrylic on canvas, painting in progress, 2010

Aerial Landscapes - Urbanest Installation, June 2010

New Painting: South Branch - Chicago River

Urbanest May 2010 - Aerial Landscapes

Studio Peek - May 2010

Open Studios This Friday

Painting in Progress: Chicago River

Ravenswood Event Center
4011 N. Ravenswood Ave.
2nd floor (follow the 2010 posters once inside)
Chicago, IL 60613