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  • Links to other sites
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  • Price List
  • But I digress...
 
 Latest Works
*2025*


In this section, I'll post my most current sketches and paintings. Sometimes they will be slightly unfinished and will be followed up in a day or two with some adjustments. To see the difference the changes have made, I'll leave the original image in place for comparison. When I am content that a work has been completed (and sometimes it is difficult to know exactly when that is), I'll move it to an appropriate page elsewhere in this website.

The very most recent are at the TOP of this page...it works something like a BLOG. 
​
You may notice my digital images are occurring more frequently. These are not for sale but may be downloaded for your personal use.


Your comments continue to be much appreciated.

CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE
 


​
Picture
Woman in Gallery (draft)
Digital application of acrylic painting
20" x 16" with attachment

I've broken several rules here that most painters follow. For example, I've created a wonderful background - yet incomplete. No paintings have been hung and no one is viewing them. The woman is a cutout of a drawing to check on a figurative placement.
The plan of this work has been slowly evolving. Usually a plan is developed and then sketched out on paper and finally a painting is roughed out on canvas. My bad.


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​

Picture
  Mysterious Climb
 
Acrylic on canvas 20" x 16" &     attachments

This is an accident.
Earlier in the day I was expressing an idea that the 2 climbers would disappear gradually into the distance...
In photographing the work in progress, the flash in my phone/camera erupted unexpectedly creating this ephemeral effect.
​
I rather like the idea of a happy accident.

For the moment it can stand as it is.







Picture

 YELLOW PREVAILS 2025

Acrylic on canvas  30" x 36"

I liked the colour yellow in 2024 and I still feel a connection to it.

I plan to explore it further.

The psychology of the colour yellow is complex and perhaps suits my celestial sign - Gemini.

Let's see where this takes us.






​

*2024*

Picture
Diane's Sunrise
Smart Phone Photo

Diane travels the world and documents her journey with exotic images captured with her phone.
She has a creative sense of balance and overall design. This wonderful photo was taken from her balcony overlooking the Toronto Islands.






Picture
Coming and Going
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


I'm definitely in my 'Yellow Period'.
I think this portrays my conflict with ideas around 'galleries'.
Colliding gallery concepts without completion... Perhaps people walking in a circle would have                                                         been a more accurate portrayal.  
                                                     







Picture
Gallery Scene
Acrylic on canvas 24" x 36'

For the past few months I've been carrying around several mental images relating to galleries.
This is still unfinished and it may be as far as it goes (for now).
It portrays an 'opening' sans art and customary beverages.





Picture
SUNSET: yet another
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


Many artists paint the same image repeatedly. Why?

Perhaps it's a search for perfection.

Maybe it's some underlying compulsion for the subject matter.

In my case - I simply like sunsets reflecting off water.







Picture
Orchids on Windowsill

acrylic on canvas board
24" x 20"

I surprised myself in powering through a work that was doomed from the start (see below).

It was (and remains so) a tiny personal victory.













Picture
Orchids on Windowsill

Photo of my original draft work
acrylic on canvas   24" x 20"
in progress


As the paint dried, it became obvious that the canvas was flawed forming deep wrinkles that did not respond to stretching. While preserving it for the moment, I decided to continue working on the concept.
It may be a lost cause...
We'll see where this goes?










Picture
Ecru
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


Qu’est-ce que c’est 'ECRU'?

A word-a-day arrives on my computer every morning. Often some words appear quite esoteric.
In this case ecru derives from an old French
word referring to the colour beige or Taupe.

An image came to mind depicting what I perceive captures its flavour - somewhat like coffee and cream.












Picture
Hot & Cold
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

A fundamental aspect of Colour Theory includes contrasting warm and cool colours. Bright colours are considered 'warm' in relation to Dark colours which are seen as 'cool'.

In everyday life, this contrast is exemplified by observing a person dressed in black clothing on a hot sunny day. Compare this to someone wearing white clothing on a similar day.

You may 'feel' the difference.










Picture
 Heat Dome
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

This week, temperatures and humidity rose to extraordinary heights in Toronto and much of North America. The speed of change from moderate to  hyper hot was breathtakingly fast.

This week, an explanation was offered to account for this rapid weather shift...
'Heat Dome'.

... a cool term









Picture
Sunset on the Harbour
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

I'm fortunate to live in a place where my backyard is the Toronto Harbour.
Every season brings fresh images.
'Nuance' here is more than about choice of words. After a while one can notice even subtle changes in the harbour.
Then there are ones that nearly knock you over...like this.








Picture
Branches in Vase for Nancy
Charcoal & Pencil on Paper 7" x 5"

Sometimes a thank you note just won't do...






















Picture
In the Rain
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

The idea for this image came from a recent article about Guillermo del Torro's film "The Shape of Water"and the closing scene of a woman wistfully looking out towards the harbour at night.
It's complicated... and a great film.

















Picture
 The Eclipse
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


Having witnessed the great eclipse in the 1960s, I suspect this is what many people will see during the process of the partial Eclipse.
I was on the beach in Toronto's east end where several astronomical societies had set up their telescopes and tracking equipment. The atmosphere was as exciting as if a flying saucer had been spotted.

I bet April 8th 2024 will more than rival this early experience.







Picture
 Big Bird
Acrylic on canvas 8" x 10"

A bird symbolizes new beginnings.

This was painted in red and white.

In all honesty, some of the  content was unintentional - as if the brush had a mind of its own. I look forward to more paintings on canvas. There is nothing like pushing paint around.







Picture
Dark Island
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

The last of an unintended series.

An impatience with lingering Winter as the feeble entry of Spring commences. Spring heralds a time for brighter colours and more joy.

Who knows - maybe crazy images.

Whatever shows up, it'll be fun.










Picture
 Dark Mood
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Stuck indoors with the worst cough of the 21st century.

Sleep deprived and little motivation to do much of anything.

When an island of energy strikes, I have to move quickly before it disappears.











Picture
 Once There Was a Winter
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch + AI

Here, by Toronto's harbour, there was very little in the way of winter.
The harbour froze over for a couple of days. There were no fearless ice skaters that I saw.
It made getting around fairly easy, aside from the growing volume of traffic and endless construction.

So I "made up" a winter.










Picture
 Sunset in Orange
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Who needs blue when you have beautiful ORANGE?
​
This colour symbolizes warmth and boldness - ideas that are almost orthogonal to each other.
Each contain and display energy differently.








Picture
 Orange Field
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

It's so easy to become overwhelmed with the world around us.








Picture
 SPRING
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Late this afternoon on a mild winter's day in February, I heard the distinct song of a bird outside my window. A robin?- I'm uncertain.
The day before it was obvious that some of the surrounding vines and bushes had buds showing promise of life.

I'm beginning to understand what Vivaldi had in mind - definitely a quickening of the pace.








Picture



Horizon 2
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch + AI

Without words, I'm trying to express an attempt to find a direction in the midst of chaos. My thoughts are unclear as I try to formulate my next move, image-wise.












Picture
Horizon 1
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


In this New Year, I've decided to make a few changes. One of them is to avoid the use of the colour BLUE. When I look back at my years of art creation, the primary colour blue has tended to play a significant role.
Let's see where this goes...









_______________________________________________________________________________

*2023*



Picture
 City on Edge
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Thoughts of a city struggling with housing and food prices...
Solutions seem impossible in the short run - when it's needed the most.
Does 2024 look better?






Picture
 Late Autumn
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch & A.I.

Part photography, part drawing, part Artificial Intelligence.
Hand guided technology can produce a beautiful work of art.
Artists have been employing various kinds of technology since Leonardo da Vinci, if not even earlier.
Something about A.I. often elicits an emotional response.
Share your thoughts with me.






Picture
 Exploring Colour Theory
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

 After a quiet stretch
and a reconfiguration of my studio,
I'm back at joyful  work once again.
I thought I would begin by refreshing myself with some basics in colour. It's amazing what you can forget simply by not using what you've learned. It's interesting for me to view emotions from the point of view of the colour theory model.
I'm looking forward to more physical painting in the new year.



 


Picture
 A Painterly Sunrise
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

When I started painting, I was told I had a "loose" style. So, I tried to "tighten up" and paint as if I was more like a camera - recording details. So wrong headed of me. I'm happy to embrace my true nature and preference of being painterly along with imperfections. That's how I am.
Nevertheless, I'm still blown away by artists who are able to capture reality with a myriad of details and perfection. That's who they are.







Picture
Coming Fast
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

The past few days have been perfect for sailing in Toronto's Harbour - steady westerlies with occasional light gusts.
This work is based on a similar painting I did years ago. At that time I had sailing friends who urged me to be more accurate re the sails.
This time I threw accuracy aside and attempted to capture the feeling of sailing.
                                       I think this says more about that experience.









Picture
 The Skating Party
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

While the planet boils and Toronto swelters, we may find ourselves reminiscing about cooler times...
A whimsical projection into the near future. Stay cool...

                                                                          Winter will soon return.







Picture
DAY'S END
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


Despite the issues we read about in the daily news, summer for many signals fun and good times.
In Toronto, we are drawn to the                                                harbour and the lake.









Picture
 Good Times on the Water
 
Digital Art
 Microsoft Sketch

 Sunshine, a breeze, sailboats & laughter
 Canada Day was a delight at Toronto's    lake front.









Picture
 Coming Closer

Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Hundreds of years of natural landscaping are about to be altered in a few minutes.
We watch...in sadness...speechless.












Picture
The Fires Continue
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Warnings of major air pollution abound as  forest fires throughout the nation vent their worst...

Fire fighters from around the world join in the struggle to quell the flames week after week.








Picture
 Canada Burning
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Gasp! Lots of cities were hit with dreadful air quality this past month (June). For several days in Toronto many of us stayed indoors to avoid stinging eyes and sore throats from forest fire smoke drifting across the nation.
For many, it was a rude awakening to environmental issues that we usually just read about.  We had a taste of a dystopian world that must never be.








Picture
 Singing the Blues
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

The genesis of this work springs from a torch song "Where or When" (Rogers & Hart) performed in a 1937 film "Babes in Arms".
The opening line: "It seems we stood and talked like this before...can't remember...When or Where..."
There is a profound sadness which I found moving and attempted to capture here.
The background is inspired by the stained glass found in the College St United Church at Bathurst & College St, Toronto.








Picture
An Experiment
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

For this image, I employed an "ancient" digital camera and worked off a print which I altered , then digitalized the resulting image once again.
I quite enjoyed mixing old and new processes.

Att'n artists: Take a moment and let me know what you think of this process...and comment if you have tried something similar.
[email protected]












Picture
 Another Dream Image
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch



Where did this come from? ... and what is it? An ephemeral bridge?
Sometimes a compelling image floats to the surface and demands to be seen. Was this influenced by yesterday's ballet performance that bombarded the audience with disturbing digital stimuli?









Picture


Just Pile Them Here
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


Funny how one reminisces about past experiences.
As a kid, my job was to clear the table after family meals. I may have taken a few short cuts...
While you can stack bowls, fine china cups are different.
I recall running a shoe lace through the handles of several fancy tea cups and carefully bringing them into the kitchen in order to save a couple of trips.
Sadly, it was noticed!













Picture
What's in a Night
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


So much is happening in the city and it's spilling over to the quiet waterfront.
Unhappy experiences are being reported everywhere. Yet there are also wonderful episodes that are occurring but not so visible.
The contrast can be confusing...













Picture
 Coming Home
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


Sailboats on my mind - 'tis the season - on Toronto's waterfront as weekend sailors and a few pros prep for the sailing season ahead.

I'm also celebrating my youngest grandson's 1st sailboat...
When I was his age, I only got as far as sketching sailboats on paper.

                                            Wishing him fair winds...









Picture
  Dream Boat
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch


Once again a dream points the way.
Recently, my dreams have been about disturbing incidents on the TTC where I have been the aggressor. What????

Finally I dreamt about something way more calming ... but look at the colours. Not like my usual white and blue nautical images...


"If you could read my mind, love
What a tale my thoughts could tell"

Gordon Lightfoot RIP 








Picture
Sunrise at Water's Edge
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

​An impression of how a great city might be seen from a particular view point.
Can you see the large boat navigating through the                                                                                      
                                                                  morning mist     
                                                                  towards the city?        



​


                       Fireflies and Stars
Picture
Picture

Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Is there magic in the air?
Has Spring heralded in a period of optimism and positivity?
The best times seem at hand...







Cool Sun
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

We are in deep winter.
The sun takes on a certain attitude in relation to the Toronto Harbour.
Edges appear sharp.
Watch your step.


...or as Shakespeare might say
with help from CHAT.GPT app:

"In the depths of winter we doth reside,
The sun so casts its beams with new found pride,
Upon our Harbour it shines,
its edges sharp, with precision we define.”


________________

 * 2022 *


​

Picture
CATTAILS
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

While walking along a waterway on a cold wet December morning, I passed a pond that used to have a large clump of cattails.
The patch had been flattened during a construction project. I wondered if they would ever grow back? I recalled the phrase from the film Jurassic Park - "Nature will find a way".
I'm optimistic...




​



Picture
Late-Autumn
acrylic on canvas  20" x 24"

It is sometimes said that in music less is more. A simple theme can run loose around the world. It can haunt the listener for months. In painting, does the same principle operate? I don't know the answer but I thought I would investigate this in my artistic practice. I think the trick                                                                     is to identify the nature of "less".






Picture
BIG BLUE
acrylic paint on canvas  36" x 24"

This is my first "real painting" in several months...and it's BIG. I originally set out to demonstrate that I could use digital art (see below) as a model for creating a duplicate painting.
​Size does matter.
Instead something else emerged and I like it. It's warm and expansive and I think it stands alone as is (I may change my mind...).
Right now it dominates my living room and I find it inspiring.







Picture
SAILBOATS in BLUE
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

September heralds in autumn. It is a time of lengthening shadows and a time just before sailboats disappear from the lake.
Walking along the water's edge is often characterized by a sense of nostalgia.








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Picture
 WATER'S EDGE 2
 Combined acrylic painting
 (9" x 14" on board) and   Digital alteration
 
 This is an original sketch   completed late at night.
 By enhancing with digital   tools, It took on a life of   its own resulting in an   intriguing image.
 So, the question   remains: What sort of                                                                          art  is this...a hybrid?




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Picture
 BREAKER
 
Digital Art
 Microsoft Sketch
 After introducing my process for   creating digital art to someone, I   decided to take this work further.
 Once concluded, I entitled it "Sea Breaker" until I googled it. I                                                                             thought it best to drop                                                                       the "Sea" from the title.




​

Picture
ALONG the BEACH
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Following a walk along the edge of Toronto's harbour, it was satisfying to capture the sense of the experience.
What I left out completely were the excited dogs that sniffed at everything... perhaps in the  next one?











​



Picture

The CLARINETIST
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

This summer I'm having a love affair with my clarinet. I'm studying and playing with a group of fine musicians at the Royal Conservatory of Music.
It's a challenging and terrific experience.






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Picture
ENDLESS
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

What began as another rainy day in the city turned into a dystopian image that has become all so familiar in 2022.
A minor inconvenience in my personal life took on unexpected dark overtones.











Picture
  OCEAN STORM
 
Digital Art
 Microsoft Sketch

 Idea springs from a restless   night..."an   ocean storm in a bottle"?
 A viewer has since informed me that I've   stumbled into a "Conjuration and Druid spell".
 No offence intended - simply expressing a   dream sequence. Interesting connection...





​

Picture
CALLING IT A NIGHT
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

A warm humid night by the lake has a life of all its own. Colours and shapes tell a story of what was and what may still be ahead. The air seems to feel and smell differently as the sun goes down.




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Picture

​PORTRAIT IN COLOURS

Digital Art
​Microsoft Sketch

It is a fascinating experience to modify an earlier work with digital tools. It adds an additional dimension to an artist's ability to control the outcome, permitting sweeping adjustments.








Picture

 THE DIVER
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

I've spent hours watching my youngest grandson as he swims underwater, fetching objects at bottom of the pool. Pleasant memories of his earlier visits.

The image below is bereft of colour but still captures the dynamics of underwater movement. Do you have a preference?
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Picture





















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Picture
REFLECTIVE MOMENT
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

A young person pauses during a lakeside dip amidst the beauty of nature. 
What are the thoughts about?






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Picture
JUSTICE
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Each year I'm moved by the very sound and sight of June the 6th.
It has special meaning for my generation. It reflects a concept of moral rightness based on ethics, rationality, law, religion and hope.





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aw, natural law, religion, or equity. 

Picture
DREAMSVILLE
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch

Restless nights and flashes of imagery signifying ... ? 
Does this reflect the struggle facing our environment? Is it about personal desire?...or just an idea?





Picture
NIGHT LIFE
Digital Art
Microsoft Sketch 

After examining new wave works at the Graduation Art Show at OCAD, I was encouraged to bounce off the enormous energy of the new grads and try something new in expressing my ideas. So refreshing!



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Picture
   REVOLUTIONARY SPIRITS
 
acrylic paint on canvas 36" x 18

  A commissioned work depicting African           women breaking away from traditional dress.
 Dangerous times for expressing independent   thinking and behaviour.









     



​                                   COMMISIONED




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Picture
The Thaw Begins​ ?  
Charcoal & Ink on paper  8" x 10"

While walking along the shore of the harbour I saw open water following a week of minus 20 degrees. Later it became apparent that ice on tree branches was melting in the bright sunlight.
​Is this "spring" thaw? or is it more wish fulfillment on my part?
I have a feeling that I'm rushing things.





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Picture
 Rainy Day Downtown
Charcoal & ink on paper  8" x 10"

This sketch is based on an earlier series of works which highlighted a wet day in front of Eaton's Centre (Toronto).
Why now? When it's 15 below zero...?
Maybe it's about wish fulfillment - warmer weather.






​

Picture
 Sunny in Deep Freeze

Digital Art
Microsoft Paint and Image Maker

Gazing out over Toronto Harbour in blazing sunshine at minus 20 C with no wind is a unique experience. For moments at a time there is no sense of cold, just blinding light.
Everything changed when I tried getting up from a bench. The bottom of my parka had melted a bit of ice which abruptly                                                                           froze again...STUCK!





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Picture
Collapsed
​
Digital Art
Microsoft Paint and Image Maker

I find myself vacillating between "painting" and digital sketching. At 80+ yrs, sitting at a computer is easier than hustling about in a studio and all that entails while working with paint, brushes and canvas. This approach is a quick way to prove whether or not a concept works. The ability to manipulate elements so rapidly has considerable power.






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Picture
 Ascension
Digital Art
Microsoft Paint and Image Maker

We all continually search for meaning in our lives.
I feel blessed that I have an active imagination that responds to snippets of my dreams before they coalesce into a fixed idea or event.
This makes it doubly hard for me to express the meaning of what I've created. How I title my work is a bridging element to understanding the image.










____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
​
                   

              * 2021 *
​

Picture
 Christmas in   Northumberland   County
 acrylic on board 18" x 24"
 This painting has served as a   device to rally the family at   Christmas time. Each year we   add 1 or 2 additional features.   This year it includes a late   afternoon sun and a white   rabbit.
 The painting represents an   idealized image of Christmas in   the family's early history.



               NOT FOR SALE



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Picture
Revisiting Hudson River School Image
Digital Art
Microsoft Paint and Image Maker

It is a fascinating process to alter a previous image that salutes the Hudson River School (mid 19th century) and subject it to a 21st century digital treatment. Undoubtedly the viewer may struggle along with the artist in terms of assigning value to the outcome. I like the idea of making changes that would hardly ever occur with the original work.




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Picture
 Summer 2021 is Gone

Digital Art - an experiment
In the image making process all options are open to the artist…all options. Picasso and the neo dada artists demonstrated this with their assemblages in the 3 dimensional analogue universe. They pushed opened the portal to other possibilities for today’s artists and viewers.

​The Times They Are a-Changin' 
(Bob Dylan)






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Picture
The Holiday Tree

acrylic on watercolour paper 30" x 24"

It's beginning to look like Christmas.
​Cities everywhere like Toronto and New York are preparing to raise up their iconic and enormous cut trees for display in public places.
Given the urgency and call to action expressed at COP26, I wonder why cities wouldn't grow and groom a large, elegant tree in that same space for annual use...?

                                          SOLD

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​  

Picture


ISLAND SUNSET


acrylic on canvas  9" x 12"

I've watched the sun go down over the Toronto Islands for more than 20 years.
Here's a composite impression of an                                                   experience I've enjoyed all these years.







Picture
The MIKVAH

acrylic on canvas board  24" x 20"

Historically and currently, women from various cultures immerse themselves in a prescribed bath for ritual cleansing that has strong spiritual overtones. Biblical references may be found in the book of Genesis or its equivalent. It marks a transition in the lives of a family.



 SOLD
  

​
​  immersion as a way to mark transitions in their lives.  as a way to mark transitions in their lives. 

Picture

​BEING PRESENT
acrylic on canvas  18" x 24"
Balloons still on my mind. This work was influenced by watching two US tycoons roar into space as well as the launch of the Van Gogh balloon in Toronto - the latter fizzled.
There is the beginning of a renewed spirit of adventure and risk taking.
NOTE: This work was a collaborative effort with my youngest grandson who carefully prepared                                                              the canvas and painted the background.
                                                            That's him in the foreground.





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Picture

3 Balloons
acryic on canvas board 24" x 30"

This work has been retouched and varnished for entry to AGO's call for submissions expressing resilience in the midst of a pandemic. If accepted, it will appear on their online gallery.
I found this whimsical painting reassuring for a bright future.


CURRENTLY ON VIEW AT AGO'S WEBSITE:  RESILIENCE PROJECT
                     Accepted by AGO, April 5th, 2021
​             __________________________________________





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Picture
           Kayaking at Cherry Beach
  Pencil on Paper Sketch  7" x 8" approx

 A friend invited me on an expedition to a   beautiful site at the bottom of downtown   Toronto. I chose to stay dry and sketch the scene.
 Since it is vacation time, I decided to have fun and play with the resulting image. See it through different filters below...
 Ahh summertime - I forgot about   the   pandemic  for a few hours.


                                                                               GIFTED

Picture
Picture















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Picture
Toronto Island in the Fall
Watercolour on paper  12" x 16

Rediscovering an image that began a popular series of conceptual, large canvas works.


                                                    
SOLD






Picture
Toot Toot
charcoal on paper  10" x 8"

Dream of the month! After several weeks of almost no sketching, this image popped out of my head and I felt compelled to capture it.
Whimsical? Symbolic? Get away???
Whatever the genesis, it was a relief to do something at my studio table beside gazing out the window.

SOLD







​
Picture
All The World's A Stage...
acrylic on canvas   24" x 18"

"...and each of us are merely players"
(to paraphrase Shakespeare)
From the stuff of dreams - often many of my painting ideas seem to flow from a state of semi- wakefulness. They may incubate for a couple of days and if they stick - voila! 
From a few small conceptual sketches, a painting emerges.
What they represent is quite another matter.

                                                                                                         SOLD





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Picture
Atmospheric 
acrylic on canvas   8" x 10"

Having re-examined the Hudson River School, a mid-19th century art movement, I decided to emulate it with its compelling atmospheric treatment of landscape. It works quite well on a small canvas. I was surprised by its power.

                                                                               SOLD





Picture
Autumn
acrylic on canvas   9" x 12" 

There remains a tantalizing taste of summer as the temperature teeter totters daily. While I suffer a bad cold, I am still able to catch a glimpse of pure joy from my window...so encouraging.


​
                                                                                  SOLD



Picture
Nude Etude
acrylic on canvas  12" X 16"
​

It's been a glorious autumn and like a fine orchestra, the colours and timbre have been exceptional.
Here we see the trees standing out from the forest. Like musical notes, the leaves have almost disappeared.




​

Picture
Revising a Muse
acrylic on canvas  16" x 12"

This work has been difficult to complete to my satisfaction for some time.
However, as frequently happens, a dream pointed the way.
The slight alteration in colour against an abstract background seems to make it work well.


 
                                                                                        SOLD





​

Picture
First Snow
Charcoal on paper  8" x 12"

Here we are mid-October at a sunny 18 C in Toronto. Edmonton has already been hit with snow.
We'll be seeing this in a couple of months...
​




                                                                            SOLD



Picture

​In Memoriam
acrylic on canvas  20" x 16"

My brother passed away on August 29, 2020.

A white floral bouquet and a hug was lovingly delivered to me by my granddaughter.

​We all miss him.


SOLD







Picture
Self-Portrait
acrylic on canvas  12" x 9"

Having recently been reminded of my roots in portraiture, I decided to paint myself...a terrible model who fidgets.
The colour scheme is drawn from an enormous 3-D art installation of van Gogh that sits across the street from Toronto's AGO...whimsical but striking.







​

Picture
Victoria
acrylic on canvas  12" x 9"

Victoria is a world class physical trainer who I am fortunate to have as a significant member of my healthcare team whom I rely upon to keep me functioning in my 80+ years.
For the past 1 1/2 years, Victoria's face has been a mystery to me. Her eyes tell a completely different story and I've come to realize she sees "everything".



                                                     GIFTED


​

Picture
Rapid Sketch
charcoal on paper   12" x 9"
What a pleasure to capture a likeness while sitting on a friend's balcony with Toronto Harbour as the backdrop.
Socially distanced and what seems like a continent of fresh air with no virus to contend with. 
I'm reminded of the importance of daily sketching to maintain one's drawing skills. This quick sketch did not come                                       easily. I ruined my eraser!


                                                                         Gifted




Picture
    A Sad Day
 
acrylic on paper   15" x 12"
 An outbreak of covid-19 was reported    following a funeral for 3 Hutterite girls lost in a boating accident. I found this tragic loss to a cloistered prairie community overwhelming.
After ruminating for several days resulting in dozens of sketches, I found a way to express  my sorrow.



      NFS





​

Picture
  Sky and Water
 acrylic on canvas 28" x 36"

 Travelling on the ferry to   Toronto Islands is a surreal   experience after being   cooped up during the   pandemic. At some point   the sky and water become   interchangeable and   uplifting.




​


Picture
The Road
acrylic on canvas  9" x 12" 

What's in a dream? Sometimes tough to put into words...and find meaning...and if it's only an image? What then?
A friend sees a road in the Congo.
What do you see...feel?


                                                                                          SOLD
                                                                                             




Picture
Sunrise
acrylic on canvas 14" x 18"

What to do when it's too muggy to go outside?
My answer...let the mind wander and try to capture another place or a different time or a feeling.


                                                                                                           SOLD




​

Picture
Fathers Day Extravaganza
acrylic on canvas 28" x 36"

This day of celebration seemed to create an extra jolt of excitement and creativity that resulted in this image.

It's said that a painter reveals something of themself in every work.
Kind words from my two children and remembrance of my own father undoubtedly had much to say in the creation of this piece.

                                                                                               SOLD



​

Picture
Le Grand Masque
Raw canvas and cable mounted on acrylic painted support  20" x 30"

For weeks we have been instructed to wear all sorts of masks in various situations.
I decided to make a giant mask for my studio/apartment...just a bit of silliness in dangerous times.




​                                       SOLD


Picture
  Additional detail
  As a result of lively debate regarding how best to permit sipping a drink or stealing a kiss, it was decided to add an enabling zipper to the mask.
The silliness continues...






​


Picture
Serenity Now
acrylic on canvas  16" x 24"

The comedic actor JERRY STILLER passed away over the weekend.
As the bombastic father in the Seinfeld TV show, he would loudly exclaim "SERENITY NOW" whenever there was a stressful situation. It was a great catch phrase then and still is. This work attempts to echo                                                       his refrain.

                                               
​                                               SOLD





Picture

Are we there yet?

acrylic on canvas  18" x 16"
A very loose work expressing hope.
Are we seeing a light at the end of the tunnel?
As the city loosens up a bit, there is a sense of optimism...or are we about to fall into the abyss?
I choose hope and recovery.



SOLD





Picture
 Social Distancing at the Lakeside
 Acrylic on canvas  20" x 16"

 During the pandemic, we yearn for the  things we care about...including the  boardwalk at the waterfront. We are rightfully constrained from mingling in a crowd on a sudden warm day in Spring. Still we can dream of the days ahead.


                                        SOLD



​




Picture
Lockdown
Acrylic on canvas  16" x 20"

Toronto is besieged on all sides by a terrible viral attack. The population is weathering this invasion by laying low. 
The city has never been this quiet or the streets so empty. It's as if we've become collateral damage in a horendous war.

                                       SOLD






Picture

Girl on Beach
Acrylic on canvas  3' x 2'

This work completes a trilogy on women. The first two speak to refugees...and their uncertainty in a new world. Here is an upbeat image of a carefree young woman who has escaped to a sunny place...even if it is only for a week's vacation. When one views the original, it will be noticed that the sunbather is wearing "rose-coloured" sunglasses (see detail below) ...and why not!




Picture
Girl on Beach...DETAIL
See above image
















Picture
. The Last Straw
 
12" x 7" x 3" approx
 I received this straw at a local coffee shop.     
Surely it must be about the end of an era.

This is a unique joint project of my son, grandson and me.




Picture
Rusalka Connection
acrylic on canvas  10" x 8"

This small piece was the result of a fascinating evening sponsored by COC at the Four Seasons Centre (Toronto).
Hosting the event was the magnificent soprano/artist  Lauren Eberwein who sang excerpts from "Rusalka"...set in the watery underworld. She asked us to paint images that came to mind... What a brilliant experience.



                           SOLD




Picture
Tulips in January
Edited photo 6.1 mega pixels

Sometimes a photo says it all and simply can't wait to be painted...refreshing!

A gift from my youngest grandson.






                 ________________________________
 
                                        2020
          ________________




Picture
  OPEN TILE CAPSTONE

Plaster capstone  16" x 16" x 1/2"
painted in acrylic

Results of a project commissioned in latter part of 2019.





  SOLD
          



Picture
  Water's Edge  DETAIL

 acrylic on canvas: fragment from     original image (below)

 Sometimes there is a painting     nestled within a painting.



​


Picture
Water's Edge - The big Picture

acrylic on canvas   3' x 2' 

A view of Toronto from the Island Airport during a harvest moon...leaving the viewer the task of filling in familiar details of the city's profile.





      SOLD





​


Picture
  Big Pond
  acrylic on canvas   20" x 16"

  Earlier this summer, I was struck by an       unusual site on Toronto Island. Flood   waters had created a large pond that   seemed like a lake divided by a narrow   stretch of land with sandbags. It was   unusual and somewhat haunting.




    SOLD







Picture
 ALONE

acrylic on canvas  3' x 2'

​Refecting the uncertainty facing newcomers.












​

Picture
Mother's Day

acrylic on canvas   36" x 24"

May 12th is Mother's Day
​
... perhaps not everywhere.












​

Picture
Bay of Fundy Inlet

acrylic on canvas  18" x 24"

A typical image a traveller to Fundy Park in New Brunswick might see as they approach the coast.
Breathtaking!


                                                                                                          SOLD



​



Picture
The 3 Balloons

acrylic on canvas board  24" x 30"
This painting refused to be "completed" for a good part of a year
.
Viewers offered many suggestions until early one morning, the solution clearly presented itself...VOILA... I think it works!







Picture
Water's Edge

acrylic on canvas 
18" x 36"
​Finally, after 9 weeks of rehab on my painting arm, I can paint once again.
What a thrill...!



​


Picture
Fruit Bowl Sketch

pencil and paper   !0" x 8"

A friend arranged a bowl of fruit and the challenge was to sketch it in 20 minutes.
A great way to refresh drawing skills for the new year!
​I'm amazed at how hard it was to locate a sheet of paper and a 4B pencil.










Picture
WINTER 2

acrylic on canvas   36" x 24"

As winter approaches, older people watch for snow and ice with some trepidation...fears of slipping...
At the same time, incredible beauty is displayed by nature as cold takes hold of the land. 
I hope my series reveals something of this aesthetic experience.



sold
​

  

​

Picture
ANTICIPATING WINTER
acrylic on canvas  36" x 24"

We are once again on the cusp of a change in seasons. Memories of the shapes and subtle tones of snow and ice influenced this image. This romanticized feeling may shift dramatically by February...!

​


SOLD









Picture
Distant City
acrylic on canvas  24" x 36"

Continuing an earlier structural theme, a distant city looms at the edge of a lake...





​


Picture

​Waters  edge series - #1
Morning Mist

acrylic on canvas  24" x 36"

Based on a recollection of a view from an East coast shore, I was able to build on the bones of the Tundra series (below).

 SOLD
​

​

Picture
  Tundra series - #1
  Acrylic on canvas  24" x 36"
 
  This piece resonated with a        visitor to my studio. It was a      moving experience for both  the viewer as well as the artist.

​                                                       
                                                                    SOLD







Picture
  Seasonal Transformation

  acrylic on canvas   20" x 24" x 2"

  The forest prepares for yet another              change of season.

   This painting is offered in support of a         fund raising evening (November 18 at         Koerner Hall ) for the ongoing                     work of the 
Canadian Abilities            Foundation. 
   
www.abilities.ca

          I am pleased to support this important endeavour.


​

Picture
Here I am at Koerner Hall in Toronto just before the draw for the painting with Michelene, the Managing Director of Maguire Marketing Group.
The event was kicked off with a stirring speech by Raymond Cho, Minister of Seniors and Accessibility. 
It was a wonderful evening!

                                                                                                           SOLD 

​



Picture
  Water's Edge at Sunset

 Charcoal on styrofoam sheet
 20" x 30"

 On a cold dull day with the first     snow flakes in the air, my     thoughts turned to past warm       summer evenings.
 Remember!


  sold

​





Picture
 Water's Edge 2
variation on a theme
Charcoal on styrofoam sheet
20" x 30"

Same approximate scene as above from a slightly different vantage point (elevation and proximity) and a change in lighting.








​

Picture
  Morning Light

  acrylic on canvas   20" x 16"

  Looking eastward as the Toronto ferry approached
  the Island elicited this image. I was attempting to 
  capture the golden glow of diffuse light.







   sold





​

Picture
Summer's End

​Acrylic on canvas board  24" x 30"

Summer is coming to an end and everything appears different. Even the trees seem stressed with anticipation of a changing season.




sold






​

Picture
Evening View

Acrylic on stretched canvas   18" x 24"

As the weather began to become less hot and humid, the desire to be outdoors and paint intensified. A boat ride in the harbour was the stimulus for this work.











Picture
​
​  It Rained on Sunday

  Charcoal on styrofoam sheet   30" x 20"

  The day looked like a write-off with steady rain falling.

  Sketching is a fun way to make time move quickly.       
​   By mid-afternoon, sunshine broke out.
















​

My Muse - 2 views
Picture

Picture
Two Images of my Muse of 10 years ago just resurfaced. It's always a pleasure to bump into early, unrecorded works. In this case these were both painted in oil on canvas approx 15" x 22".
​





​
Picture
FIFA - Final Game 2018

Acrylic on canvas  28" x 20"

To catch the excitement of this final game was an amazing experience. It just seemed the right thing to express the joy of this game with an explosive abstraction.











                            SOLD

​
​

Picture
A Beautiful Face

 Pencil on paper  10" x 8"

 Just a quick sketch while waiting for a music   class to commence.














​




Picture
​Sailing on Canada Day

Charcoal on styrofoam sheet   24" x 20
(with a touch of acrylic paint)
​
It's a hot and sunny day with a great breeze on the lake. The harbour is packed with a myriad of sailboats.
Here's one that caught my eye.














​
​

Picture
 Downtown - a sketch

Charcoal on archival paper  101/2" x 12"

A bit of fun while waiting for the varnish to dry.









Picture
  Distant Trees - a sketch

Charcoal on archival paper 101/2" x 12"

With Spring firmly arrived in the city, we salute Winter's departure.
Please don't hurry back!











Picture
 Nature's Way
​(Island View)


Acrylic on canvas board   24" x 28"

Memories and images of nature's landscape flood my mind as Spring unfolds more fully. A portion of Toronto's western skyline appears in the background.





      On view at Toronto Western Hospital's Patient Library





​


Picture
Spring Flowers

​Charcoal and acrylic on styrofoam sheet  30" x 20"

When the sun shines in April, "ya just gotta have some pretty flowers in the house"
















​

Picture
 What the..? or Island Rain
 Acrylic on styrofoam sheet  20" x 30"

  A whimsical piece:  
  With the advent of Spring, the sunny       dry cool weather is bound to give way     to dark, wet days. After a lingering         winter, some rain will be welcomed.







​

Picture
 Thaw Time

Charcoal on styrofoam sheet  20" x 20"

Mid- February thaw. The rise in temperature sends a signal to every living thing and elicits an atmosphere of possibilities...mystery.





NFS





​

Picture

Resonance

Acrylic on styrofoam sheet  20" x 30"

This is a further elaboration on the abstractions entitled "Island Colours" and "Emergence" - see several images below.


sold




​

Picture
Regatta

Acrylic on styrofoam sheet  20" x 30"

An abstraction based on a series of photos of sailboat races in Toronto Islands harbour.
Painting on a styrofoam sheet is tricky and should be avoided by artists unless they have experienced considerable disappointment and heartbreak in life!
Yes...it's that difficult!


SOLD





Picture

Autumn Poplars

Acrylic on canvas board  24" x 30"

This is the somewhat more complex image that I had in mind when I constructed the work below. Its meaning has taken on greater importance to me given my recollections of 1978.
(See image and note below)






​

Picture
 Dufferin Fields 1978
 Acrylic on canvas board  24" x 30"

 I had planned a more complex work than   this but I stopped here as it elicited   memories of earlier days in Toronto while   driving north on Dufferin Street towards   Highway 7.
 I recall so vividly the vast fields of   mustard and sunflowers in late summer.



​




​

Picture


The Pond

​Charcoal on styrofoam sheet  30" x 20"

​The first mild but dreary wet day this winter elicited a sense of melancholia... and time again to bring out the "darker" media.
​The nice thing about charcoal is that it works faster than paint...leaving more time to reflect over a cup of tea.
















​

Picture
Emergence 2

acrylic on canvas board  24'" x 30"

An abstraction of how I've begun to explore the world around me. I have several ideas I want to further explore on this theme - I'll do it in additional paintings since I don't want to lose the immediate concept.
​I noticed that this work first began to emerge in a screened piece I created in 2011 (see "Abstract Works" - this website).







Picture

​Emergence

​acrylic on canvas board  24" x 30"

An abstraction based upon the watercolour image below. After a year, it's good to return to the bold use of colour as a medium of expression.




SOLD





​
​

Picture
Island Colours

watercolour on paper  12" x 16"

Viewing the Toronto Islands from high up.

Autumn is in the air and there is colour about! 








​

Picture
Mountain Trees
​Charcoal on canvas board  24" x 30"

Sometimes mental images are so powerful that they need to be preserved. I recall describing this work in considerable detail at a cocktail party even before sketching it.
I like the result!



  SOLD








Picture
Etude Nouveau
8" x 8" pressed chalk on watercolour paper

An experiment with a new medium by "Prismacolor" (Mexico) that worked fairly well. I thought it would be interesting to try a way of including colour in charcoal sketches without straying from the same genre of materials (charcoal and chalk).

















Picture
Invasion of York - War of 1812
Charcoal and white chalk on canvas board
24" X 30"
The 150th anniversary of Canada put me in mind of the 1812 war. Early settlers of York (Toronto) and Indigenous people along with British troops were unsuccessful in repelling American naval and ground forces in a fierce battle.






Picture

Tree line in charcoal
Charcoal on canvas board
24" x 30"




 SOLD




______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________




Picture
The Family

acrylic on canvas  16" x 12"























Picture
August Sunflowers
acrylic on canvas  16" x 12"
Even though I've painted dozens of sunflowers over the years, it's both a delight and a challenge to address this amazing flower. When sunflowers arrive in my studio, it's cause for celebration!









Picture
Going Home
watercolour on paper  20" x 30"
Based on a photo of a group of kayakers returning from the Toronto Islands.


Based on photo by Daniel Fromstein

  SOLD



Picture
  Spring 2
acrylic on canvas board  24" x 30"
Informed by sky above and water below seem to collaborate in celebrating Spring.


SOLD






Picture
  Salute to Spring
  acrylic on canvas  30" x 36"

Winter seems to have reached its conclusion for the year. In my mind, I'm sensing nature has shifted to the warmer end of the spectrum..no ice in the harbour.


 SOLD



Picture
Christmas in Northumberland County
acrylic on canvas board  22" x 28"

A family Christmas painting used as seasonal decoration
annually.


                                                                                                                                                      NFS




Picture
 Tree Lines

Watercolour on paper  40" x 30"

This large work resulted from experimenting with a technique I hadn't used for some time. Whether it is a musical instrument or art, practice is a continuing requirement.

I quite enjoyed this process and interesting outcome!



NFS






Picture
 In Hot Pursuit 1


Watercolour on paper  !2" x 10"


This is a prototype for a larger work.
It is based on a memory of a recent sailing experience and the excitement of the PanAm games held in Toronto (2015). I was able to view the sailing races that took place in Toronto's harbour.
With this work, I am attempting to capture the energy of the event.






Picture
 Elements of Hot Pursuit 1


In this image, I'm exploring 3 dimensional elements to the original concept underlying "In Hot Pursuit". It may enhance the final image when combined with the system of flat angles.






Picture
The Enigmatic Woman


Acrylic on canvas  16" x 12"


Sometimes I find a painting that I simply forgot about. This one recently appeared when I was reviewing images of previous works.


Not sure where the original is but I was happy to see it again.

NFS










Picture
   

A Dancer's Flight Check

watercolour wash on paper

8" x 61/2"

With a wonderful opportunity to observe ballet students, I've noticed the "warm-up" period is fairly intense, as if each dancer is checking to see if all body parts are working effectively.

Dancing is a beautiful but                 
 tremendously intense experience!                                                                                                     



Picture
   
A rapid sketch with graphite on paper with watercolour wash

7" x 5"

This was an outcome of a pleasant Sunday afternoon's sketching session














Picture
                                                                                                           Sketch with watercolour washes                                                                                 Graphite on paper  7" x 5"

Following an interview with a Toronto executive,
I was able to complete a sketch and later add some watercolour washes.

Practicing rapid sketches has a useful payoff!

Picture



Blue Vase and Tangerines

acrylic on canvas  20" x 16"

An interesting still life can have an inner life that is as exciting and complex as a portrait. This is one of my most favourite works. It has an intensity which surprised me!









SOLD






Picture
    The race is over

watercolour on paper   16" x 14"

This work came about through the generosity of a friend who managed to take a photo of a sailing event in Toronto's Harbour. It is an image after the race has been run and its time to pack it in and discuss in every detail over drinks!

SOLD



Picture
    Rapid sketch  Jaro

Pencil on paper   11" x 9"


Another fascinating Sunday afternoon sketching fellow portrait artists.

He has a wonderful face of considerable character.













Picture
 
Rapid Sketch   Ms Judith

Pencil on paper   11" x 9"

This sketch seemed to flow from the pencil all by itself.

Sometimes a model has that sort of effect!










Picture
Paper Mache Poppy
acrylic paint

approx 15" diameter and 5" high curve from centre

This has been commissioned as part of a Remembrance Day project honouring the Canadian chaplains who served in all the wars over the past two centuries.






PictureSide view












Picture
Rapid sketch of older man

Sanguine conte on paper

12" x 8"

I find it fascinating to explore the face through the ages. The effects of gravity and changing muscle plasticity are easily visible yet have a wonderful rhythm and flow.













Picture
3 Sketches in 90 minutes
Each one is 12" x 9" 
Charcoal on paper


Some sketching afternoons are better than others.


This was a terrific afternoon!









Picture
Picture
Picture
3-D Head exercise  large thumb size clay

I think it is good practice to remind art students what we are attempting to achieve in sketching. We try to interpret 3 -D objects by recreating them into a 2-D plane. 


I've decided to occasionally try sculpting objects in order to see and feel all the planes.






Picture
Art session participants

Pencil on paper  12" x 8"


Capturing images while they are painting with someone else weaving back and forth between me and targets is a challenging task. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the experience.













Picture
Rapid Charcoal Sketch

on paper  11" x 9"


This caught the model's likeness very accurately.


I employed my charcoal dust method for the rapidly emerging features.








Picture
A beautiful natural bouquet

acrylic on canvas  12" x 16"

During summer months, a group of artists gather once a month to
practice their painting skills.

It's a great time to renew acquaintances
and exchange a few painting tips.

                                             SOLD





Picture
On Toronto Island

The things we do when you have visitors and show them the sights!











Picture
    
A Commemorative Gift


Acrylic on canvas with attachments
20" x 16"


A visual story board with items identifying significant links to a family's history.


To preserve privacy, image has been altered. 










Picture
Receiving community service award

It was a very satisfying occasion to be in the company of distinguished service award celebrants who received governmental recognition for their societal contributions.









Picture
Emerging visage 
conte on paper  12" x 8"

This was the result of an experiment with three objects: sanguine conte, paper and an eraser.

First I lightly covered the paper with  a thin layer of conte. Then began the task of separating the lights and darks with an eraser until
the model's face emerged.

Something to practice again...and again!





Picture
Luminato & TSO

Here I am heading over to the ACC with my clarinet to play Bolero with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Peter Oundjian.

This was part of the Toronto festival "Luminato".

What a proud moment! What a blast!



PictureA salute to a Volunteer institution
REMEMBRANCES   acrylic on 20" x 16 canvas with attachments

An assemblage of meaningful items reflecting the history of the Volunteer Programme after 30 years at Harbourfront Centre on Toronto's waterfront. In addition to commemorating the work of this organization, it aims to create an ongoing dialogue among the volunteers and to connect them to its rich history over 3 decades of service.
On view at Harbourfront Centre






Picture
Lady with Beret
Charcoal on paper  12" x 9"


This is a 20 minute skech of an artist from the Sunday group of portrait artists. We take turns posing for rapid sketches.

This sketch seemed to catch her likeness plus her open gentleness quite nicely.










Picture
Life drawing in 15 minutes

Pencil on paper  12" x 9"

Some mornings are better than others.

This was a very good morning!



Most of nude series below have been SOLD








Picture
Pencil on paper  8" x 11"

This is a 15 minute sketch with a rubenesque model who was a pleasure to sketch. She posed rock solid in classical poses.






Picture
Rapid sketch 
conte on toned paper   9" x 12"



Here the trick is to capture the rhythm of the model within 10 minutes.

It's a challenge!
No time to sharpen drawing tools or attempt the head.








Picture
Ben
vine charcoal on paper  12" x 9"

Here's a complex pose to try in 10  minutes.

The model is sitting on his right foot with his left arm falling across his lap.


Ben is known for his amazing poses and is often referred to as "spiderman".










Picture
Sanguine & white conte on toned paper  12" x 9"


A wonderful classical pose and a bit of  chalk made for a very nice quick sketch (about 15 minutes).

Obviously no time to attempt the head.









PictureBrief sketch 1
Pencil on paper  11" x 8"


Classic poses by a creative and well read model. Some of her poses were extremely difficult to draw due to foreshortening and perspective.















Picture
Brief sketch 2
Picture
Pencil on paper  11" x 8"

The human figure is equally as difficult to draw as a portrait. A myriad of subtle shapes and contours make it an enormous challenge.
















PictureRapid sketch
Pencil on paper  10" x 8"


I find the mature face is most interesting to sketch.

















Picture
Pencil on paper  8" x 10"


Rapid Sketch

I'm always amazed what can be achieved in 20 minutes or so.








Picture
Pencil on paper   10" x 8"


Rapid Sketch




















PictureEarly Spring
acrylic on canvas   16" x 20"


In keeping with the spirit of "Exploration" as my guiding theme for 2014, I chose a late winter/early spring landscape theme.

I've attempted to capture the concept of the warming and beginning of a new season
.                                            It's neither one nor the other, but BOTH!





PictureFleeting Thoughts
acrylic on bookbinding with assemblage  20" x 16"


I employed a process that combines painted abstraction along with a conceptual style of art first introduced by Picasso in 1912.
This is like exploring the past and moving it a bit further along.   The idea of capturing the elusive notion of fleeting thoughts or the whisper of ideas is intended to reflect an established sense of  meaning developed over time and place.

             Toronto Western Hospital's Patient Library





Picture
Christine

Pencil and paper   10" x 8"


This likeness was achieved in 45 minutes and both the model and I were quite pleased with the outcome.













Picture
Frank

Crimson ink on paper   10" x 8"


Here's a rapid sketch over looked from a recent Sunday afternoon practice session.

The interesting thing about drawing with ink... "don't make an error!"








PictureGong Xi Fa Cai
Year of the Horse

French Grey chalk on archival paper in a silver frame   9" x 7"

Each year I sketch an image commemorating the Chinese New Year and give it away for "good luck" .


Congrats to Jay, who won the raffle!








Picture
Exploration is the Word

Acrylic on canvas   18" x 14"


Some of my colleagues are choosing "one word" as a theme for the New Year 2014 instead of a list of resolutions.
This idea appeals to me on many levels thus my chosen word
:    EXPLORATION... and here is the first result of this strategy!!!!!

SOLD




PictureJaro


Pencil on paper  10" x 8"

While other images (above and below) are perhaps more exciting - figurative work is by its very nature terrifically interesting!

However a rapidly drawn portrait (30 minutes) is the most demanding of all image making activities.

Why do I do it? To paraphrase a U.S. president, "We do it, not because it is easy, but because it is hard" (from J.F. Kennedy's Moon speech in 1962).



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Picture


Acrylic on canvas   16" x 12"

What a pleasant way to end the year 2013 !

Wondering what's ahead fills me with hope and a dollop of excitement.

Happy New Year to all.
Larry

SOLD




Picture
Sketch of Jane

Pen & watercolour on paper 
10" x 8"


A pleasant pre-Christmas sketch of a lovely lady who offered to pose.

The first sketch was a bit too rough and spontaneous. This one worked much better with  better control of the pen.



SOLD





Picture
MARCO (20 minutes)

pen and paper  10" x 8"

The first 10 minutes were really a warm up to this exercise and I soon realized that the next 20 minutes could be best served by turning the page and starting over.

A wise move!

Picture
Frank (30 minute drawing)

!2" x 9"  Fine pen on paper

Every Sunday afternoon, an extraordinary group of portrait artists meet to practice their craft. It is my privilege to occasionally join them. We take turns posing for 30 minutes.
It is an amazing experience!


PictureRecycled Still Life


As I get older, it has become increasingly difficult to carry a variety of still life objects to various painting classes around town. To lighten the load I have begun collecting disposable plastic water bottles and altering them so they make for an interesting array.

Don't be surprised if you find me checking out your water bottle!

Picture



DEMO for Art Class

watercolour paint on canvas board   10" X 8"

A group of art students were exploring portraiture with pencil and paper when I decided to create a painted sketch from a photo of the model later that evening.
I think I caught his striking appearance fairly well.


GIFTED to model















The Island's Edge

Picture
16" x 20"  acrylic on canvas

Having found some trees at various stages of growth by the water's edge, I was able to glue some thin sheets of found tree bark to a canvas and let the paint flow. With only minimal guidance from my brush, interesting details emerged along the bark's natural occurring lines.

                                            SOLD



Clouds over Island View

Picture
30" x 36"  acrylic on canvas board
A typical summer skyline as observed from Toronto's Harbourfront. I've employed four shades of grey and a touch of pure white pigment for highlights. I find it to be a relaxing image...with the possibility of a refreshing rainfall.

                                                             SOLD




Antiquity in the Rough

Picture
20" x 16"  acrylic on canvas

Having recently completed a complex and demanding piece of work, I felt the need to play and experiment with some loose ideas (also see below). Here is a strong representational vase with light bouncing off its right side and an abstracted floral arrangement. It's as if I needed to cut loose from being restrained...a sense of freedom...release.



Birch at water's edge

Picture
20" x 16"  acrylic on canvas

An expression of joy on a warm summer's day. The big conflict is my desire to keep painting versus the draw of sunshine and the beckoning lake...!






SOLD


Radical Floral

Picture
20" x 16"  acrylic on canvas

A very loose representational work based on a bouquet in a non-descript sort of vase sitting on my coffee table.
I'm enjoying a weekend of playful experimenting with ideas and application techniques. This one (and the one above) are spontaneous expressions - both left partly unfinished and just enough structure to be understood.



Nathalie

Picture
10" x 8"  graphite on paper

A sketch of my granddaughter based on a recent photo. Looking forward to seeing her when she comes to Toronto.

While it is of course possible to draw and paint from a photo, the process is greatly enhanced when drawing the "real thing"...and much more fun!



I also mend shoes!

Picture
Brand new pair of shoes got scuffed? Who you gonna call?

How disheartening to wear a pair of dainty heels for the first time...and you scuff the heel of one.
Local artist comes to the rescue.
How exciting to do something in the real world!




Candle Stick and Fruit - a demo

Picture
Pencil sketch  9" x 12"

Following a series of lectures and demonstrations, participants were presented with an attractive still life.
I know they enjoyed it as much as I did!


The Portal

Picture
Installed in Toronto Western Hospital
acrylic on fabric  30" x 36"
The building of a new  Patient & Family Library has lead to the creation of this work. It includes a shout out to the panels on each side of the entrance. The central theme of "portal" refers to the interaction of knowledge and practice while serving the public.



Light against Darkness

Picture

acrylic on canvas  
16" x 20"

This is what happens when you read Ray Bradbury's  Fahrenheit 451 the night before you do a class demo...a sense of both beauty and a bit of danger emerged.



Floral Spring

Picture

acrylic on canvas  14" x 18"
(detail)

Painting flowers while listening to beautiful operatic areas with very pleasant people  is quite joyful. While it wasn't my best painting day, it was a delight nevertheless.



An advanced stage of Library painting

Picture
Acrylic on fabric 
30" x 36"

This image is faithful to the original concept and includes images of the hospital's central mall with its sweeping arches.




Commission concepts for a Hospital Library

Picture

Acrylic sketch on fabric - drafts

The idea behind these two
images is that a library may be a portal into and from the outside world.

Picture



20 minute portrait

Picture
Pencil on paper 14" x 11"

It's a truly motivating experience
to work along side of highly talented portrait artists. Practice, and even more practice is the
refrain heard when asked how to improve one's drawing skills.





Carnations in Crystal Vase

Picture
Watercolour on Paper   11" x 8"

If you like this image, you would have loved the original drawing.

In a lesson learned time and again, DO NOT RUSH to finish a work.
With a meeting to attend, I did what neophytes often do - just throw the paint on rapidly. Sometimes it works but more often it doesn't. I'm of two minds on this painting.




A Couple Embracing

Picture
Digital Image (Feb 13 at 4:30 pm)

At the foot of Toronto lies the "Music Garden"...at the west end of  Harbourfront. On a balmy day in February with the sun shining, an image appeared of a couple embracing.
This clearly heralds "Valentine's Day".




Sunflowers Reboot

Picture
acrylic on canvas  16" x 12"

As an artistist, I'm sometimes bothered by an earlier painting that appears less than what I desired.

After about 6 months, I returned to an earlier version of this rendition whose structure was good but its finish was not to my liking.

Here it is and I'm finally happy with it!



NFS




A Heavy Use of Watercolour

Picture
watercolour on paper
8" x 11"

I've sometimes wondered what it would be like to use watercolour paints as if they were acrylics.

An interesting effect!




Apples & Oranges in a Basket

Picture
Watercolour on paper 
8" x 11"

A big basket of everyday fruit can make for a wonderful still life.
In a studio with 10 other artists, it's fascinating to see the array of approaches and choice of media.



My Angel

Picture
pencil on paper  10" x 8"

A very good thing to do as an artist is to start the New Year reviewing basics and brushing up on technique.
A crucial skill to re-examine is "seeing" like an artist. It is important to "see" beyond the obvious. In this case, it was initially an exercise in drawing a small figurine.
The following (below) was even more demanding...drawing a silver pitcher and all the reflections on its surface.

SOLD


Picture
The Silver Pitcher
The angel was photographed with a "warm" filter and the silver pitcher with a "cool" filter.

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Latest Works *2012*



4 Portraits in 2 hours
The ultimate exercise in the remaining hours of 2012...
sketching portraits!

The following images are sketches of several volunteer models who each posed for 30 minutes. This is a weekly exercise among a group of very experienced portrait artists. It is not an easy feat ... yet extraordinarily satisfying! See my efforts below:
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture



Violin and wine

Picture
with cool filter
pencil on paper   11" x 81/2"

Here is a detailed drawing of a still life photographed with a "cool" filter.

Note the delicate and diffuse shadows with main light source to the right.

The identical drawing  below was photographed with a "warm" filter. Note how the shadows become even more diffused.

Picture
with warm filter



A few good onions

Picture
acrylic on canvas  12" x 16"

This is a 15 minute demo to help students understand that a large brush with few strokes is far more efficient than a small brush with multiple strokes. The trick is to have a clear mental blueprint (or at least a small drawing) before committing to paint. Also important is starting over if a false start occurs (as in covering painting with gesso).



Red Gardenia

Picture
30" x 35"  acrylic on canvas

With a busy weekend of professional and social events ahead, I found it necessary to deconstruct these events in terms of personal expectations and responsibilities. During this time, elements of the image (Red Gardenia) unfolded and expressed my inner feelings. It reflects both my joy and anticipated demands.


SOLD



Serenity

Picture
Acrylic on canvas  18" x 36"

The final stage of a commission.



Commission



At Montreal's Musee de Beaux Arts

Picture
While visiting this wonderful gallery for a close look at a special exhibition of The French Impressionists on loan from the Clarke Museum, I came across an enormous wood carving by a Quebec craftsman.
Once again I was reminded that creativity has no bounds!

I encourage everyone (especially art students) to see as many art works as possible. Pictures are good but the real thing is a growth experience.



Final Stage (almost) of Commission

Picture
" A Reflective Moment "
acrylic on canvas  18" x 36"

All that remains prior to handing this painting over to the client is a couple of additions and a coat of varnish... and a glass of champagne!



A Quick Watercolour

Picture
Watercolour  9" x 11"

I love the opportunity to welcome a new month (November) with a painting.

This still life was done in about 20 minutes to show a group of students new to watercolour painting that it is a fairly resilient medium.

We often give the impression that it is an unforgiving medium compared to other media such as acrylic. If anything it demonstrates the importance of a good drawing.




Jack-O-Lantern  3D

Picture
Carved Small Pumpkin (about 10" high)

A slightly different approach to carving a pumpkin - leaving the inside untouched and pretending the exterior is clay.
The downside of this attempt is that the usual tools for working with soft clay simply DO NOT WORK! The pumpkin has a tough exterior. Perhaps woodworking tools would be better.
There is always next year.


A Patch of Jack-O-Lanterns

Picture
A wonderful group of art students lent a hand to preparing a pumpkin patch for a children's party.

Lots of variations on a theme!


Stage 5

Picture
acrylic on canvas  18" x 36"

At this stage, colours have been adjusted and more details begin to appear. Foreground is more defined and perspective is more pronounced.

Now is the time to seek more information from the client in terms of including objects (e.g. trees and gulls).


Stage 4 of a Commissioned Work

Picture
Acrylic on Canvas
18" x 36"

Students often ask how one goes about preparing a commissioned painting. I tell them it occurs in about 8 or 9 stages. As the work is finalized, adjustments are made to details including features and tone. The final stage is framing and varnishing. At this stage (4), lots of details are still required.



Preparing a Commissioned Landscape

Picture
pencil on paper  5" x 9"

As a result of discussions with the client, a series of draft sketches are being prepared in order to capture requested features and colour scheme as well as size and shape of canvas to be considered. Commissions rank with portraits in terms of complexity and difficulty. A wonderful challenge!

Picture
!st draft of colour scheme and design (watercolour)



Going Home

Picture
acrylic on canvas  !0" x 8"

This work sprang from an earlier large scale painting that included a beach scene. There is a kind of wistful quality that I wanted to capture. The blurred details add a bit to a melancholy state not unlike a memory that has begun to fade.



SOLD


Lining up for tickets

Picture
Watercolour on paper  71/2" x 10"

Whether it's obtaining tickets for the Ex or TIFF or.... sometimes there can be a quality of resignation to the "system" as we conform to the "process".

The original title for an early draft of this piece was "night shift".


SOLD



Roses in Vase

Picture
Watercolour on paper   11" x 9"

Part of a warm-up exercise following a few weeks off from drawing and painting. Music replaced my drawing time as I focused on studying the clarinet. As I tell my friends, doing both may lead to "less" and that can be disheartening. However, so far so good.

Ahh - summer!

These slower days may soon be replaced with autumn's crisp edge and quicker pace.



Rainy day at Eaton's Centre

Picture

acrylic on canvas  8" x 6"

This painting is based on a series of photos taken from a moving bus during a rain storm. The rain did not appear to deter this shopper.
It was part of a larger painting that I was unhappy with so I simply sliced it from the canvas and framed it (destroying the canvas).
Similarly with the next image that follows.

I'm encouraged to take another run at the whole image.



SOLD

Pictureacrylic on canvas 8" x 6"
  Heavy Rain







SOLD




10 minute Mountain Scene

Picture
acrylic on canvas   8" x 10"

During a west end art class, one of the participants challenged me to paint something without any reference material. I had just declared to someone I had never done that before as I always employed some sort of reference such as a still life or photo. So I thought what the heck...let me try.
WoW! I was amazed at what jumped out of my brush on a still wet gesso'd canvas.
The learning keeps on rolling along.

Not available for sale


5 Minute Sketch

Picture
acrylic on canvas board  10" x 8"

Sometimes everything works well and a surprise occurs.
While demonstrating the utility of a rapid preliminary sketch in order to prepare for a larger painting of a floral study, this pretty work resulted.

I think we were all slightly amazed!




Red Head, NB

Picture
acrylic on canvas  24" x 36"

This is a large framed work reflecting, in part, memories of my early years in New Brunswick while living fairly close to "Red Head" - an inlet of the Bay of Fundy.
I was slow in completing this work mostly because of lingering on the good memories that it elicited from within. I'm very happy with the outcome.

SOLD








The Beat Goes On...and On!

Picture
acrylic on canvas   18" x 24"

This painting depicts a conductor with baton transforming musical notation into musical splendour. Shortly, several bands within the New Horizon Band programme will perform at a concert entitled "The Beat Goes On...and On!". This work will be raffled off in support of the programme.


SOLD





Flowering Cactus [revised]

Picture
acrylic on canvas  12" x 16"

After getting my second wind, I decided to make a few changes that would produce a better painting. I decided to deepen the background with more colour intensity; add a few additional branches to the top center (composition); reshape the earthen ware and add more green and deeper contrasts. Overall, I think I have created a more interesting and better defined image.

SOLD



The Easter/Passover Flowering Cactus

Picture
acrylic on canvas  12" x 16"

This beautiful plant was painted in natural sun light. I chose to approach the canvas in a loose and undisciplined manner which I found uplifting and was quite pleased with the result. Sometimes it is worth the risk to throw off learned constraints (for a while anyways). 
I think it is like stepping outside for a breath of fresh air.




20 minute sketch

Picture
graphite on paper   11" x 9"

On Sundays, a group of highly skilled artists practice their craft by taking turns posing for about 20 minutes at a time. A variety of media are employed from oil paint to conte and graphite on various supports.
This experienced artist sat rock still...not an easy feat!



Inspired by Music

Picture
acrylic on canvas board   24" x 30"

In a series of sketches and paintings to reflect a musical theme for a painting to be used in a fund raiser for the New Horizons Band, this came into being. Immediately (for me anyways), this work elicits feelings of Gustav Holst's "The Planets".
Following this, I'll move towards a representational work reflecting a more light hearted depiction of the Band.



Anika

Picture
acrylic on canvas   16" x 12"

Portrait of a beautiful little girl who has great interest in visual arts and fine cultural activities.

Anika supplied major elements of the background in a colourful abstract painting which I adapted for this work.

She's three and a half years old!


 COMMISSION



Late in the day at 33

Picture
acrylic on canvas  14" x 18"

Completed work (see below)


 COMMISSION


End of Day at 33

Picture
acrylic on canvas   14" x 18"

How the view appeared in 2009...just before the great leap in construction across the road from Harbour Square.

[IN PROGRESS]


 



The Oscarette

Picture
acrilic on canvas paper   approx 10" x 4" (cropped)

Having watched the Oscars yet again (and I'm not complaining - it's an amazing event - all that talent in one big hall !), I recalled an earlier work I did years ago (this image). I mused about what if the academy had decided to fashion a female award statue and what it might look like...thus the Oscarette !


RESERVED



Stream at Lord Seaton Park

Picture
acrylic on canvas   12" x 16"

Based on an old photo while walking through one of Toronto's beautiful parks.
This is the result of sifting through a box of old pictures.


Toronto Western Hospital


Early Winter at the Rouge Valley

Picture
acrylic on canvas  12" x 16" palette knife

Is it "early winter" or "finally winter"?

Yesterday I struggled through Toronto's first snow storm and the very next day all traces of snow had disappeared. Today, I saw people running along the boardwalk in shorts and T shirts. Nevertheless, I was inspired to look through my photos of winter scenes.
This one is based on a photo taken along the Rouge River a few years ago when winter was winter. 
Toronto Western Hospital


The Golden Dragon and Pearl

Picture
acrylic on canvas   12" x 16"

Having observed the works of so many members of a workshop on drawing classical Chinese dragons, I decided to create a painting that I believe captures the essence of a great tradition.

Later, I added a luminescent pearl to the bottom right..."good fortune"!

Gōng Xǐ Fā Cái

SOLD
 

Fierce Benevolence

Picture
acrylic on canvas   30" x 24"

In preparation for the Chinese New Year celebrations - year of the DRAGON - a strong image of a dragon was created. It was interesting to learn that there are generally two kinds of dragons that are culturally relevant. I have depicted a fierce looking Western/European style dragon that is typically reflected in fiction and religious traditions. The notion behind the title reflects as well the benevolence of the Asian dragon and how it is presented in children friendly movies.


SOLD


Paint Ball

Picture
acrylic on canvas  20" x 16"

A study in colour and texture

With the fog rolling in and piling up against the tall buildings on the lake front, it seemed necessary to escape into a world of bright colours.
It's hard not to smile when you stand in front of this painting.




RESERVED


Michael's Paisley Idea

Picture
acrylic on canvas  16" x 20"

Michael (my son) has an incredible world view along with a great sense of creativity and innovation. Recently we were exploring abstract images and how to investigate the concept. His notion of "paisley" as a significant object to study led to this attempt to capture our discusssion. There is nothing more exciting than to interpret a concept with paint and canvas. Interesting work!
RESERVED


Floral Burst

Picture
Acrylic on Canvas  20" x 16"

It's January, Friday the 13th.
Finally a little snow fell on a cold and windy day - is this truly winter?
If so, bring on the flowers and lots of colours!







SOLD


Toronto- a statement of mine

Picture
oil on canvas  20" x 16"

So here we are in a new year - 2012

For some reason, it has become apparent that abstract works and New York's "a state of mind" have been affecting me. It may have something to do with waiting for some snow to fall in the city and its islands.
In addition, I'm in the mood to experiment (not only with abstraction) but also oil paints and other media as well as subject matter. For the first time in years I even purchased charcoal and large supports.

I can't wait to see how this year unfolds artistically.



SOLD


Honey & Happy

Picture
acrylic on canvas  20" x 16"

I've given myself the gift of letting my paints drive the image. With no preconceived idea of an image, my brushes and palette knife are doing most of the work. I find the images surprising and they delight me.


Abstract - Celebration 2

Picture
acrylic on canvas  20" x 16"

 What can I say? Just in the mood!
 It's like a buzz or itch to explore and do something different!


 SOLD


Abstact Floral - Celebration

Picture
acrylic on canvas  16" x 20"

Usually I choose representational work over abstraction but on this ocassion I was moved to construct a piece that I found refreshing. I guess I wanted to express the joy and excitement of the new year.
I hope you enjoy it.



SOLD



Robin in 2 minutes

Picture
graphite and watercolour paint on 140 lb paper  approx  8" x 11"

This lovely model was a joy to paint. The morning was spent in gestural drawings of mostly 1 and 2 minute sketches. I was pleased to catch the general contours of this elegant woman.



Paintings in the Chapel of Toronto Western Hospital

Picture
Paintings - acrylic on canvas

Seven framed paintings varying in size from 16" x 20" to 20' X 26" have now been hung in the chapel of Toronto Western Hospital. They provide warmth and colour to a relatively stark space used for reflective thought and spiritual purposes.
The chapel is located on the 7th floor adjacent to the South Elevators and is available to all.



Late Autumn

Picture
acrylic on canvas   12" x 16"

This is a variation on a theme based on an image from Toronto Island (see below). If "A Bright Autumn Day" is considered to be early November, then this would be late November or early December as evidenced by deepening shadows.


Toronto Western Hospital


A Bright Autumn Day

Picture
acrylic on canvas  12" x 16"

Here I posed the question, based on a photo I took while on Toronto Island during the summer, "How would things look on a bright Fall day?". Memory and fantasy compete with one another.
This is a fascinating and challenging way to enjoy a day of painting.
Results can be surprising!


SOLD

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