Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World: Blog https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog en-us (C)MyersBrothersArt.com (Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Mon, 10 Feb 2025 21:16:00 GMT Mon, 10 Feb 2025 21:16:00 GMT https://www.myersbrothersart.com/img/s/v-12/u725137401-o594028036-50.jpg Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World: Blog https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog 82 120 Painting Trends https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/painting-trends A trend is fleeting—yet often destined to be repeated. With my brush in hand, am I creating a trend or merely recreating one?

At this juncture, I retreat to what I call my Non-Trending Space (NTS)—a sanctuary of sorts. Like the knights of old who sought refuge with monks, I, too, seek a place of safety. But unlike them, I must trust myself enough not to reveal my whereabouts, even to myself. This space exists beyond my soulness, deeper than conscious thought. And like the monks who vowed secrecy, I too have sworn not to disclose the location of my retreat. But I can paint it.

Take, for example, my painting Catmint in the Culinary Gallery. While creating it, I entered my NTS to uncover how cats experience its influence. In that space, I sensed colors infused with the essence of their delight—an aqua-blue haze flecked with pink, enclosed in a greenish-yellow aura. For a fleeting moment, a hint of honey drifted past my nose.

When my visit to the NTS ended, I returned with only my painting—a silent witness to my brief refuge.

Find The Amazing Guide to Growing Catmint by Scott Marilyn on amazon.com 

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Thank you for your support. Comments or questions are always welcome.

Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Abstract Art Artistic Catmint Color Creative Creativity Inspiration Non-Trending Painting Process Sanctuary Soulness Space Theory Trends https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/painting-trends Mon, 10 Feb 2025 21:15:58 GMT
Painting Your Feelings https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/painting-your-feelings What’s your mood today—down, out, indifferent, or rebellious? Often, personal feelings and moods don't matter to a painter when living by what I call the Infinity Vibration (IV). This state of being pulses through every one of my 30 trillion cells, connecting me to all the dynamic energies of human emotion and experience. It’s not unlike how an actor taps into their soul to embody a new role.

When I paint, I tap into this deep reservoir of IV from my cells and channel it into my work. This is how I create the essence of who I am. Both real and imagined experiences live within me, waiting to be expressed.

You can see an example of this in my painting Leaf in the Nature’s Artistry gallery, where I tapped into my IV to bring a universe of emotions to life through the lens of nature. As I travel to this inner space, I don’t just create—I feel the mood, and in doing so, I feel truly alive.

 Thanks to Anatomy: Exploring the Human Body for help with this blog.

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Thank you for your support. Comments or questions are always welcome.

Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Artistic process Channeling energy Creative flow Emotion Human experience Infinity Vibration Inner space Mood Painter's expression Personal feelings Soul connection https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/painting-your-feelings Mon, 10 Feb 2025 21:03:58 GMT
Painting Finished? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/how-do-you-know-when-its-finished When is a painting finished?

This question deserves an honest answer. For me, it all comes down to the Last Brush Stroke (LBS)—the precise moment I know a painting is complete.

I can often feel my LBS slowly approaching, growing stronger as my theme nears completion. The composition, colors, and vision come into sharper focus. And then—suddenly—it happens! I stop immediately, as if a child has just dashed in front of my car to retrieve a runaway ball.

Take my painting Eastern Columbine in the Beneficial Plants II gallery, for example. The moment I exaggerated the stamens beyond their natural length, I knew it was time. LBS had waved the red flag, signaling the painting was complete.

The challenge, of course, is recognizing that moment and resisting the urge to keep going. Overworking a painting can dull its energy and obscure the spontaneity that makes it feel alive. Sometimes, stepping back and trusting the process is the hardest yet most crucial decision an artist can make.

Restraint is key in painting. Knowing when to stop is just as important as knowing how to begin. Each brushstroke should serve a purpose, and unnecessary additions can detract from the initial vision. By practicing discipline and awareness, an artist can preserve the integrity and vibrancy of their work.

So, when is a painting truly finished? Perhaps it's when the work itself whispers, Enough.
To learn more: How to Finish a Painting by Dayakar and Agunta

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Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Awareness Colors Completion Composition Discipline Energy Integrity Last Brush Stroke Overworking Painting Finished Restraint Spontaneity Trusting the process Vibrancy Vision https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/how-do-you-know-when-its-finished Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:44:46 GMT
Creating Meaning in Landscape Photography https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/creating-meaning-in-landscape-photography As a landscape photographer, I’ve found that creating meaningful images isn’t just about capturing beautiful scenery—it’s about being intentional with both place and time. By carefully selecting locations and timing my shots to coincide with dramatic lighting conditions, I can enhance the emotional impact of my photographs and tell deeper stories through the landscapes I capture.

Beyond technical precision, I strive to connect with the environment on a personal level. Before pressing the shutter, I take the time to observe the landscape, noting how elements like light, weather, and seasonal changes interact. This mindfulness allows me to infuse my images with a sense of place and atmosphere that resonates with viewers.

Composition also plays a vital role in storytelling. Using leading lines, framing, and balance, I guide the viewer's eye through the scene, creating a visual journey. Every element within the frame should contribute to the overall narrative, ensuring that the final image conveys not just what I saw, but what I felt in that moment.

Ultimately, meaningful landscape photography requires patience, awareness, and a willingness to immerse oneself in the environment. By approaching photography with intention and emotion, I can transform ordinary scenes into compelling visual stories that leave a lasting impression.

Check out: The Art of Landscape Photography- by Ross Hoddinott (Author), Mark Bauer (Author)

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Peace and love. Dan Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Dramatic lighting Emotional impact Environmental connection Intentional photography Landscape photography Light and weather Location selection Meaningful images Observation Storytelling https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/creating-meaning-in-landscape-photography Fri, 07 Feb 2025 16:35:49 GMT
Is There a Difference Between Light and Darkness? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/difference-between-light-and-shadow Light and darkness are separated by an infinite spectrum of shades. Light exists at one end of infinity, darkness at the other, and in between lies what I call the Illusion Factor (IF)—the ever-shifting gradient of perception.

Is There a Difference Between Light and Darkness?

This question invites a deeper exploration. At first glance, light and darkness seem to be polar opposites: light illuminates, reveals, and symbolizes hope and knowledge, while darkness obscures, conceals, and is often associated with mystery or the unknown. However, upon closer examination, the difference between them is not as clear-cut as it may appear.

In many ways, light and darkness are interdependent. Darkness defines the boundaries of light, and light gives form and contrast to darkness. Without darkness, light loses its context, and without light, darkness is meaningless. They coexist as two sides of the same coin, each necessary for the full expression of the other. This dynamic interplay creates the rich tapestry of perception we experience, both in our everyday lives and in the realm of art.

The Illusion Factor in Art

In my painting Butterflies, featured in the Slide Show Gallery, I depict butterflies as transparent figures suspended between light and darkness. Their transparency embodies the Illusion Factor—the subtle gradations that blur the distinction between these two extremes. By doing so, I challenge the conventional boundaries of perception.

Illusions, by definition, are distortions of visual perception, yet they are widely accepted as reality by most of humanity. Art, much like science, operates within these illusions we perceive as truth. Through the Illusion Factor technique, I reimagine the conventional realities of light, shadow, and the ambiguous in-between, blending them with my own artistic vision. The result is a fusion of multiple conceived realities into a single, dynamic visual experience.

A Continuum of Perception

The interplay between light and darkness is not merely a binary opposition but a continuum that forms the basis of our sensory and emotional experiences. The question "Is there a difference between light and darkness?" ultimately leads us to understand that while they represent distinct qualities, their existence is mutually reinforcing. Light accentuates darkness, and darkness enriches the brilliance of light, creating a balanced dialogue that is both complex and beautiful.

In this dialogue, the Illusion Factor becomes a metaphor for the fluid boundaries of reality. It suggests that our perceptions—what we take to be absolute—are, in fact, malleable and open to reinterpretation. Just as the butterflies in my painting shift between light and darkness, our understanding of the world is continuously evolving, informed by both what is seen and what remains unseen.

Special thanks to Todd Rose author of Collective Illusions.

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Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Art Butterflies Continuum Darkness Illusion Illusion Factor Light Painting Perception Reality Transparency Visual Perception https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/difference-between-light-and-shadow Fri, 07 Feb 2025 16:02:20 GMT
Entering the Unknown https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/entering-the-unknown For me, the unknown is not something mysterious, fearful, or a journey of the soul. Simply put, it's the loneliness of knowing I have no one but myself. The artist's path is often solitary, a journey inward where only the creator and the creation exist. It is a space where external validation fades, leaving only the dialogue between the artist and their work. However, I have an empty surface to paint on, which will become an image unique to me. No school, friend, or spiritual being comes to rescue me. I am alone.

So now, I turn to what I call Imagination's Empty Mirror (IEM) — the self of myself. Here, I feel comfortable and warm. I go behind the mirror, look through to the other side, and see myself looking at myself, looking at me—the self I truly am. Only I see this self.

Looking into a mirror is an act of confrontation and revelation. The surface reflects not just an image, but an inner world, a hidden truth waiting to be acknowledged. It is both a barrier and a portal, a place where the seen and unseen merge. As I stare into it, I see the shifting expressions of my own existence, the flickering emotions I often hide from the world. The mirror reveals not just what is visible, but what lingers beneath—the unspoken fears, the quiet hopes, the weight of solitude, and the depth of self-awareness.

The solitude of the artist is both a gift and a burden. It allows for deep introspection and complete immersion in the creative process, yet it can also feel isolating, as if one exists in a realm apart from the world. My painting, Multiflora Rose in the Dreamscape Gallery, is my IEM. It is colorful, alive, and floating disconnected in space. There, alone, I see my mirrored shadow side and embrace it, truly knowing me- who is me. This knowing can only be discovered when I see myself from the other side of the mirror, creating artworks. Only I can perceive it as I hold the thoughts performing the action of creating me.

Thanks to Dr. Carl Jung: The Undiscovered Self for deepening my self perspective.

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Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Artist Confrontation Creativity Empty Imagination Introspection Isolation Loneliness Mirror Revelation Self-awareness Self-reflection Solitude Unknown https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/entering-the-unknown Thu, 06 Feb 2025 16:27:29 GMT
Backgrounds, Does it Matter... https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/backgrounds-does-it-matter    My backgrounds are often intuitively painted first, naturally becoming the foundation for showcasing the main subject. However, they’re not always set in stone—backgrounds can be altered if they start to overpower the primary subject or create unintended visual tension.

One of the biggest challenges in painting is achieving harmony between elements. Sometimes, a background that initially feels right may later compete with or diminish the impact of the subject. Other times, colors that seemed balanced in the early stages may create disharmony as the painting progresses. When these conflicts arise, I rely on what I call the Painting Partnership Team (PPT).

A perfect example of this technique is my artwork Callery Pear, found in the Other Plants gallery. Originally, I painted the background a darker shade of aquamarine. However, I soon realized that it was overshadowing the delicate white flowers rather than enhancing them. This is where PPT came into play. By adjusting the aquamarine to a lighter shade, I was able to restore balance, allowing both elements to work together harmoniously rather than competing for attention.

The PPT technique helps me resolve conflicts by ensuring that multiple elements in a painting hold equal value, fostering unity rather than competition. Whether it’s color intensity, contrast, or compositional weight, I use this approach to fine-tune relationships within the artwork, transforming individual components into a cohesive and visually pleasing composition.

Every painting presents its own set of challenges, but learning to navigate these conflicts is what makes the process so rewarding. The key is to remain flexible, recognizing when an adjustment is needed to create a truly harmonious piece.

Thank you to: BH Staiger White! Light! Bright!

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Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Art Artistic Background balance Color Composition conflicts decision-making Fine foreground harmony painting Partnership process Resolving Team techniques unity https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/backgrounds-does-it-matter Wed, 05 Feb 2025 18:15:18 GMT
Painting, Obsession or Compulsion? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/obsession-or-compulsion Neither. It started with a sound. A woodpecker’s beak tapping against a tree trunk, sharp and rhythmic, like a hand rapping on a door. Not noise, but music—a message. A pulse that stirred something inside me.

Sounds have always shaped the way I see the world. The hush of wind through leaves, the distant murmur of waves, the electric buzz of cicadas in summer heat. They don’t just enter the ear; they sink into the bones, becoming colors, shapes, movement.

This morning, that woodpecker’s drumming became my brushstrokes—quick, deliberate, unrelenting. I painted the tempo, the energy, the urgency of its call. The tree’s rough bark became texture, the spaces between taps turned into silence woven through the piece. And underneath it all, that restless feeling I know so well—Your Endless Restlessness, YER.

This is how sound becomes art. This is how rhythm shapes vision.

Can you hear the painting? Can you feel the beat?

I recommend: Your Creative Career: Anna Sabino

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Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) auditory inspiration beat birdsong cicadas drumming echo harmony melody Nature's Music pulse resonance rhythm rustling leaves silence Sound and Painting tapping tempo vibration waves wind woodpecker https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/obsession-or-compulsion Mon, 03 Feb 2025 16:45:22 GMT
Red-tailed Hawk Eyes https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/hawks-eyes On a sunny, cloudless Sunday afternoon, while seeking inspiration for a painting in the wooded area behind my home, I heard a loud, piercing screech off to my left. Turning to look up, I saw a red-tailed hawk landing gracefully on a tree branch twenty-five feet directly in front of me.

In this spiritual moment, I stood motionless like a statue, holding my breath and hoping not to be discovered. It was too late—the hawk had already spotted me with its penetrating, sharp eyes. I felt its gaze locked onto me.

Although the hawk's natural colors were striking, I decided to paint this vision in a ghostly manner, with white and bluish feathers. I wanted to capture it in a princely pose, as if surveying its kingdom with authority. You can view my painting, Red-tailed Hawk, in the Birds, Bees, and Butterfly gallery.

Just then, the hawk's head turned, seeming to catch sight of something below. Staring at a nearby thicket, it tensed up, leaned forward, and, like a lightning bolt, swooped down, sailing with wings spread wide, claws at the ready. In an instant, it disappeared from sight as its screech echoed through the trees once more.

Many thanks to Hawks From Every Angle by Jerry Liguor for inspiration.

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Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) claws eyes feathers ghostly hawk hold my breath inspiration piercing screech pose Red-tailed Hawk Eyes swooped walk https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/hawks-eyes Mon, 03 Feb 2025 16:36:38 GMT
Painters Walk Your Own Path https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/walk-your-own-path If only that were true. A path is typically multi-directional, offering at least two ways: coming and going. Every path has its share of curves, blind spots, and intersections with other paths. So, what now? It's time for Self Truth Analysis (STA).

Take a moment to view my painting, Irish Springtime, in the Dreamscape Gallery. This piece represents my STA dreamscape—it is a reflection of who I am. In essence, STA is a personal search for your unique sense of self.

For the creative artist, particularly the painter, STA is expressed through Color—with a capital C. This analysis is distilled into just three primary colors: red, yellow, and blue. Keeping it simple allows for greater clarity and depth.

Now, let’s step off the uncertain path. With our three colors in hand, we embark on the STA journey. This is where the excitement begins. As we engage in this process, the door to self-discovery creaks open, revealing a dreamscape crafted by you, for you—only you.

Using the three primary colors in painting allows for an endless range of possibilities. Red, yellow, and blue are the foundation of all other colors, offering infinite shades and tones when mixed. By blending these colors, artists can create everything from the warmest oranges to the deepest purples. Understanding how to manipulate these three hues provides a sense of control and creative freedom. With practice, a painter learns to use them to evoke emotion, establish harmony, and bring their vision to life on the canvas.

Thanks to Painting Dreams by E.R. Wexler for inspiration.

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Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Blue Color Creative artist Dreamscape Painter Primary colors Red Self Truth Analysis Self-discovery Yellow https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/walk-your-own-path Mon, 03 Feb 2025 14:54:59 GMT
The Artist's Brush, My Friend https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/the-artists-brush-my-friend It is a demanding friend because, in its silence, there is neither comfort nor consolation. No voice of disagreement. No encouraging wisdom to impart. Is this the friend I need? Yes. For an artist, the brush becomes a confidant—a listener. And often, a listener turns out to be your closest friend.

Why? Because my secrets are locked inside its bristles and wooden handle, never to be revealed to the public. Besides, I have many brushes, many friends, in all shapes and sizes. My brushes ask nothing of me. Pick me up or not. Walk away and never return—it’s okay. Love me, neglect me, or refuse to paint with me. But nevertheless, I hear my brush whisper in the silence, "Dip me in aquamarine, and together, we will paint the depths of the ocean."

True friendship, like my brush, asks for nothing in return. It does not demand explanations, nor does it judge. It exists in the quiet moments, offering unwavering companionship without expectations. A real friend listens, not just with ears, but with an open heart, understanding the unspoken words between the lines.

I call this dialogue between my brush and myself Alone At Last (AAL). Only the artist understands the true feeling of aloneness, the isolation, and the brush’s silent yet profound friendship. But perhaps, in this solitude, one discovers the purest form of connection—a bond that transcends words, expectations, and time itself.

Thanks to Paint Brush Set for Acrylic Painting 20 PCS. (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Thank you for your support.

Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com

 

 

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Aloneness Artist Brush Companion Confidant Friendship Isolation Listener Secrets Silence Understanding https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/the-artists-brush-my-friend Sun, 02 Feb 2025 17:41:28 GMT
Be My Huckleberry https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/be-my-huckleberry I painted Huckleberry, as seen in the Fruits & Vegetables gallery, on a dare. I challenged myself to forgo all hues from my watercolor paper except blue. Well, perhaps a little green slipped in.

It was the last Friday in January, early afternoon. Rain beat against my door's large glass windows, and puddles formed along the walkway. The sky hung low and heavy, a somber gray stretching endlessly. Droplets clung to the windowpane, distorting the world outside into a dreamy blur. A rhythmic tapping echoed through the room, a steady percussion that complemented the melancholic mood. I felt a bit blue—but not the kind of blue that sinks you into sadness. Just blue enough to paint a shade that would lift me from my rainy-day mood.

No single shade of blue could quite capture my blueness. So, I began layering two shades to form the huckleberries. Still not blue enough. A third hue joined. Still not quite right. Then came what I call BB—Beyond Blue. A fourth blue. Cobalt blue? Too dark. Maybe a touch of white? Yes. Instantly, this combination of four blues snapped me out of my rainy-day blueness.

I often use this BB technique—layering colors—as a self-healing device, adaptable to all hues. For instance, BG stands for Beyond Green, and BY for Beyond Yellow. I find the Beyond approach necessary, not only in painting but in all things.

Thanks to their book Blue, the History of Color by Pastoureau & Cruise available on amazon.com    
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Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com

 

 

 

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Beyond Blue Blue hues Cobalt blue Fruits and Vegetables Huckleberry Layering colors Melancholic mood Rainy day Watercolor Windowpane https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/2/be-my-huckleberry Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:11:53 GMT
Fill in the Blank https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/fill-in-the-blank To a painter, the canvas or paper is blank. It is a vast, open space filled with endless possibilities and potential. Now what? Creatives always have an image poised at the end of their brush. The imagination sees the image just before the brush touches the surface, usually accompanied by a hint of color. Then comes the point of no return, sometimes called No Going Back (NGB).

A blank canvas can be intimidating, yet exhilarating. It is both an opportunity and a challenge, demanding vision and courage. There is no map, no compass, no global positioning system guiding us to our destination. Yet, we feel satisfied, knowing the design idea is feasible and confident in our ability to accomplish the mission. I had this very thought as I prepared to paint Potato for the Fruit and Vegetable gallery.

Mmmm, I could start by painting the potato with an earth tone—maybe an ovoid shape with a rough brown skin texture. But then I paused. Was I truly at the point of NGB? I reconsidered, retraced my steps, and discarded my original brown potato idea. Instead, I created a painting bursting with beautiful blooms and their life-sustaining green leaves.

In creativity, the point of no return is not always final. Sometimes, it's an invitation to reimagine and embrace a new vision.

With appreciation to author Kelly Scott 44 of the Best Potato Recipes for inspiration.

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Peace and love. Russ Myers

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) artistic vision blank canvas challenge creativity imagination inspiration No Going Back opportunity painting reimagination https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/fill-in-the-blank Fri, 31 Jan 2025 17:31:40 GMT
Artistic style? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/artistic-style As far as a painter's artist style is concerned, it is the expression of a distinctive personality characteristic, unique to each artist. This identity, once discovered, solidifies an important relationship between the artist and their creative self. Establishing an artistic identity unleashes creative freedom, allowing for endless exploration.

An artist's distinctive personality is reflected in their brushstrokes, choice of color, and the themes they explore. This unique signature develops over time, influenced by personal experiences, emotions, and inspirations. It is what makes each artwork a direct reflection of the creator's inner world, allowing them to communicate beyond words and forge deep connections with their audience.

Artistic style is the fingerprint of an artist—the unique way they express emotions, ideas, and perspectives through their chosen medium. Whether in painting, sculpture, digital art, or even photography, an artist’s style is what sets them apart, making their work recognizable and deeply personal.

Take a look at my painting Asparagus Soldiers in the Dreamscape gallery. My modified abstract-realistic style enables me to explore fresh creative possibilities in design, color, and originality. My brother Dan contributed by giving this painting its title, which is also featured on our banner on our Facebook business page, myersbrothersart.com.

Special thanks to Facebook for Dummies, 8th edition. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Thank you for your support.

Peace and love,

Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com

 

 


     

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) asparagus Soldiers brushstrokes color communicate creative freedom identity inner world painting style personality themes https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/artistic-style Thu, 30 Jan 2025 17:15:10 GMT
Color, The Painters Third Eye https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painters-third-eye-blue Often, we hear of our third eye, the pineal gland. It is a small, pea-shaped gland located in the center of the brain, between the two hemispheres, in a groove where the two halves of the thalamus join. It plays a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles by producing melatonin, a hormone influenced by exposure to light.

Some spiritual traditions believe the pineal gland is the gateway to higher consciousness and intuition. Once activated, it can cause a phase shift in our emotions, our sleep patterns and our perception of colors.

To painters, it is important to acknowledge colors, such as blue and its dynamic mood-altering qualities. Interior designers decorating bedrooms recognize blue’s ability to shift moods into a state of calmness, relaxation, and peacefulness. When we go outdoors and observe the blue sky, don’t we immediately feel better? We say, "I'll go outside, breathe some fresh air, look up, see the blue sky, and feel at peace."

Shades of blue are often used in home décor to create a serene and tranquil environment. Lighter shades, such as sky blue or pastel blue, can make a space feel airy and open, perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms. Pairing blue with neutral tones such as white or beige enhances its calming effect, while adding metallic accents like silver or gold introduces elegance and warmth. 

View my painting Rocky Mountain Columbine in the Blue/Green Native gallery. I painted the sky blue along with blue flowers, creating a double blue effect that can produce a calm feeling for the observer.

For more information on this fascinating subject, I recommend Color Therapy Plain and Simple, by Nina Ashby, available on Amazon. (Full disclosure: I receive a small commission if you purchase this book from the above link.)

Thank you for your support.
Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) brain color blue light pineal gland sleep wake cycle third eye https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painters-third-eye-blue Thu, 30 Jan 2025 00:26:26 GMT
I Feel Like Painting Today https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/i-feel-like-painting-today Because I saw a mockingbird land on my deck, look around, and quickly fly away, I was struck by a simple yet profound realization. I thought to myself, "I can't do that." But I was inspired. So, I painted the bird in my mind, carried its image to my studio, and brought its memory to life on canvas.

See my painting, Mockingbird, displayed in the Bees, Birds, Butterflies gallery. How does such an ordinary observation of a mockingbird become a source of inspiration? And for that matter, do painters even need inspiration?

Speaking for myself—yes, I do. Inspiration is essential to who I am, whether it comes from a mockingbird or something else entirely. Inspiration fuels creativity, providing the vision and passion needed to bring a painting to life. Sometimes it emerges from nature, other times from personal experiences, memories, or even a fleeting moment of emotion.

Birding itself is an art of observation and patience. Watching birds in their natural habitats, learning their behaviors, and recognizing their songs can be a meditative and rewarding experience. Whether in one's backyard, a nature reserve, or during a quiet morning walk, birding fosters a deep connection with nature. Each bird sighting tells a story, much like a painting, and inspires those who take the time to notice.

I remember my father, upon viewing some of my paintings while I was attending art school, offering me a simple yet powerful piece of advice: "Son, keep painting." I have heeded his words ever since. That almost off-the-cuff remark carried more weight than he might have realized—it inspired me deeply.

Art is not just about technique; it’s about feeling, interpretation, and connection. Whether it's a bird taking flight, the colors of a sunset, or the quiet nostalgia of an old photograph, inspiration breathes life into art. Painters, like all artists, thrive on these moments of insight. Without inspiration, art would be merely mechanical, lacking the essence that makes it truly meaningful.

For those interested in birding, I recommend Peterson's Field Guide to Birds of North America, available on Amazon.com. It is an excellent resource for both beginners and experienced bird watchers. (Full disclosure: I receive a small commission if you purchase this book from the above link.)

Thanks, Dad. I needed that.

Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com

 

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Art Studio Birding Connection Creativity Gallery Inspiration Mockingbird Nature Observation Painting Wildlife https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/i-feel-like-painting-today Wed, 29 Jan 2025 23:55:32 GMT
Delete That Painting? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/delete-that-painting   Sure, I changed my mind. My first idea didn’t work out, and neither did my second one. Changing my mind isn’t something I take lightly; it’s a process of evaluating, experimenting, and learning. Each shift in direction feels like peeling back layers to reveal something more authentic. So, bring on the white paint and erase those ideas.

But here's the thing—when this happens, I don’t want to completely white out my first two attempts. I leave traces of them in the background; I call this my RMF, or "Remember Me Factor." These remnants are a reminder of where I started and the steps that brought me here.

I try not to view what we often call mistakes as failures but rather as stepping stones. Changing my mind isn’t about failure—it’s about growth and adaptation. And typically, I end up changing my subject matter entirely. Take my painting Camden, Maine Harbor Morning, for instance, in the Dreamscape gallery. A boat, fully underway at full sail, is heading for its destination, gliding over the waves of two failed paintings beneath its hull.

Now, I’ve almost freed myself from the guilt of failure by embracing the RMF. I know I can’t completely forget my past, but I’m willing to rebuild—starting fresh if necessary—to create a new beginning. Changing my mind is an act of courage and resilience, a way to honor my journey while embracing the possibility of something better.

Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Artistic journey Changing my mind Courage and resilience Creative process Growth and adaptation Mistakes as stepping stones Rebuilding from scratch RMF (Remember Me Factor) https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/delete-that-painting Mon, 27 Jan 2025 17:53:28 GMT
Painting, The Unreal https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/paintingj-a-study-of-the-unreal   For example, my painting "Lily of the Valley," found in the Beautiful but Invasive gallery, is what I call an "abstraction of an abstraction." It is composed of feelings bathed in pinks and blues, with a hint of the lily's shape, promoting an atmosphere of foggy distance yet close enough to touch.

By disconnecting myself from the reality of the world, my abstractions seem to come alive, becoming more real than real—almost like clouds on a cloudless day painted in my imagination. Imagination, for me, is a boundless realm where emotions, memories, and dreams collide, giving birth to forms and colors that defy the constraints of logic. It is a place where the impossible becomes tangible and where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary. In this space, I am free to explore depths of meaning and layers of perception that often elude the conscious mind.

However, living in this space is not without its challenges. There is a price to pay because everyone else is rooted firmly on solid ground. The act of balancing two worlds—one of boundless imagination and one of societal norms—can be isolating. It often feels like walking a tightrope, constantly aware of the potential to fall. There are moments when the vivid world of my imagination clashes with the structured reality around me, creating a sense of disconnection. The effort to appear grounded, to conform to expectations, can be exhausting and sometimes leaves me questioning my place in either realm.

But to me, reality is an abstract daydream painted on a surface of illusion, fleeting yet profound. Those moments of creation—when ideas and emotions flow seamlessly—feel like stepping into a timeless void where everything aligns. Time seems to stop, and the act of painting becomes a meditation, a dialogue between the soul and the canvas. Each stroke captures something intangible, a fragment of a dream made real. It’s in these moments that clarity emerges, and the chaos of thought transforms into something tangible, a visual story that holds meaning and life.

It’s okay, though, because those moments of creation become meaningful and crystal clear when the painting transforms into a finished work of art.

Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com


   

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Abstraction Beautiful but Invasive gallery Boundless realm Emotions distance Feelings Foggy Imagination Lily of the Valley Painting Pink and blue Real vs. abstract https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/paintingj-a-study-of-the-unreal Mon, 27 Jan 2025 17:30:49 GMT
Observations From the Toilet Bowl- A Fun Book https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/observations-from-the-toilet-bowl--a-fun-book My sister has always had a gift for satire and irony. I've often called her our family's Erma Bombeck, a title she unquestionably deserves.

Barbie, my sister, was incredibly close to our mother, inheriting not only her sharp wit but also her obsession with maintaining a pristine home. She absorbed our mother’s cleaning tips and tricks, cultivating a deep love for the process of transforming chaos into order. Barbie finds genuine joy in the art of cleaning, taking pride in the satisfying before-and-after results. For her, the crisp, fresh scent of a well-scrubbed home is the ultimate reward.

Eventually, Barbie’s passion for cleaning caught the attention of acquaintances who asked if she’d consider becoming their housekeeper. She enthusiastically accepted, turning her lifelong love of cleaning into a fulfilling career. Her clients quickly realized how lucky they were to have someone so meticulous and dedicated caring for their homes.

Now, Barbie has combined her knack for humor and her professional experience into a hilarious memoir. This book is a delightful collection of humorous anecdotes about the quirks, challenges, and surprises of cleaning and decluttering other people’s homes. It’s an uplifting and entertaining read, perfect for anyone who enjoys witty observations about life’s messy moments—both literal and figurative.

Full disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission if you use this link to purchase her book: Buy Barbie’s Book Here.

Peace and love, Dan Myers

myersbrothersart.com

 

 

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Barbie Nelis book Cleaning Decluttering Erma Bombeck Funny anecdotes Housekeeping stories Humor Life lessons memoir Pristine home Satire https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/observations-from-the-toilet-bowl--a-fun-book Mon, 27 Jan 2025 16:45:07 GMT
Painting, Why Me? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-why-me     

A Question Not Easily Answered

What is it about painting that captivates me? It’s not a simple question to answer. For me, it’s the experience of holding the brush, moving paint within a space, and watching something tangible emerge. It’s a deeply satisfying process—if I allow myself to stop overthinking.

I call this concept Action Without a Purpose (AWAP). My goal is not to create something specific but to discover myself through the act of painting. As I guide the brush and fill the space with designs, I’m transported into a realm of mystery. Even though I might have a vague idea of the final result—perhaps a scene with birds—I’m still venturing into the unknown.

Take my painting, Mourning Doves, as an example. You can view it in the Birds, Bees, and Butterflies gallery. This avian family is depicted feeding together, with one bird standing watch, almost as if protecting the others. Look closely at the background—the environment I’ve created for them. Here is where AWAP truly takes over.

Guided by inspiration, I begin painting without a specific purpose, letting the process lead me. Suddenly, trees, water, and sky emerge—softly blurred yet distinct—contrasting with the ordinary brown tones of the doves. The painting evolves organically, becoming uniquely mine.

Thank you for joining me on this journey of discovery.

Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Action Without a Purpose art artistic inspiration avian AWAP birds brown tones brush canvas creativity discovery gallery Mourning Doves natural environment nature paint painting sky trees water https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-why-me Sun, 26 Jan 2025 17:42:48 GMT
Painting , Utilizing the Art of Introspection. https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-utilizing-the-art-of-introspection  Understanding Human Nature in Art

It helps if the painter is able to deeply engage with and understand human nature, especially the intricate workings of our emotions, as a cohesive and integral aspect of being. This self-awareness and connection enhance the authenticity of artistic expression.

Understanding human nature is vital for an artist, as it allows one to explore the universal truths of existence while delving into the complexities of individual experience. Art becomes a mirror reflecting the joys, sorrows, struggles, and triumphs inherent to the human condition. By empathizing with the shared emotions and stories of others, an artist can create works that resonate deeply and universally.

Equally important is being an acute observer of nature. Nature offers an infinite source of inspiration and wisdom. It teaches us about balance, impermanence, and the interconnectedness of all things. By closely observing the subtle changes in light, the patterns of growth, or the quiet resilience of a winter landscape, an artist can capture the essence of life itself. This attentiveness to nature nurtures creativity and deepens the connection between the artist and the world around them.

I invite you to view my painting, "Winter Steps," featured in the Nature's Artistry gallery. In creating this piece, I stepped back to become an acute observer of my culture. This process required keeping an open mind—embracing past, present, and future timelines—and recognizing the timeless truth that there is "nothing new under the sun."

Some philosophies propose that past, present, and future are not distinct periods but sub-dimensions coexisting simultaneously. This perspective inspires my artistic process. When I paint with this mindset, I call it OOMP: Out Of Mind Painting. It’s not about being out of sight; rather, it’s about existing in a dimension of timelessness, free from obstructions, where clarity reigns. In this state, my psyche is suspended, allowing me to discover and express my individual creative self.

Peace and love,
Russ Myers

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) artistic expression artistic process creativity cultural observation emotions human nature individuality inspiration interconnectedness nature observation OOMP Out Of Mind Painting timelessness universal truths Winter Steps wisdom https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-utilizing-the-art-of-introspection Sun, 26 Jan 2025 01:28:38 GMT
Selling Matted Prints https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/selling-matted-prints So You Want to Start Selling Photographs as Prints

This is a challenging undertaking. Many photographers are trying to earn money from their craft, and the competition can be fierce. However, success is achievable if you focus on the key elements. Here’s how to get started:

1. Determine Your Target Audience

Identify a niche market for your prints. For example, consider selling in places where tourists gather and seek souvenirs from their vacations. Tailor your approach to meet the preferences of these potential buyers.

2. Capture Local Beauty

Take photographs that beautifully depict the area you’re targeting. Focus on iconic landmarks, natural scenery, or unique cultural elements that resonate with your audience.

3. Build a Diverse Portfolio

Assemble a collection of at least 50 distinct prints. A variety of images increases your appeal to a broader audience and showcases your versatility as a photographer.

4. Edit Your Images

Use software like Photoshop or Affinity Photo to refine your images. High-quality editing can make the difference between a good photograph and a stunning print.

5. Start Small

Begin with smaller print sizes, such as 5x7 or 8x10 inches. These are affordable for buyers and easier for you to produce in bulk.

6. Package Professionally

Protect and present your prints well. Package them with mats, backing boards, and clear plastic sleeves to give them a polished, ready-to-display look.

  • Tip: Choose mats that fit standard frame sizes like 8x10 or 11x14 inches. This makes it easier for customers to find frames and increases the likelihood of a sale.

I recommend mats from Golden State Art. (Note: As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn a small commission if you use my link to purchase these mats.)


Stay tuned for more tips on selling prints, right here on my blog. Have questions? Let me know!

Peace and love,
Dan Myers

myersbrothersart.com

 

 

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Affinity Photo Golden State Art local photography photo editing photography business photography mats photography tips Photoshop professional packaging selling art prints selling photography prints small print sizes tourist souvenirs https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/selling-matted-prints Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:13:19 GMT
Who Uses Color? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-uses-color Reverse Subtraction Painting

Everybody chooses shoes, ties, outfits, home interiors, vehicles, and so on by considering color first. Artists, too, work with color, but sometimes, we don’t get to choose any of the colors we work with. This was the case when my brother Dan asked me to create a series of four paintings of a maple tree, each depicting a different season, for our myersbrothersart.com website. You can view "Winter Maple" in the tree gallery section.

Winter poses an interesting challenge. Typically, it’s snowing outdoors during this season, and snow is white. Since I use white watercolor paper to create my paintings, I was faced with a dilemma: how do you paint white snow on white paper? Mmmm, white on white. Now what?
Dan and I devised a technique we call "reverse subtraction painting." Here’s how it works: I began by painting the red leaves, then added the tree branches. What remained unpainted represented the snow. By doing this, the whiteness of the snow was initially “subtracted” from the composition. As I completed the painting, I reversed my technique, revisiting the beginning and deliberately painting in the snow to bring it to life.

Using white effectively in a painting can be both challenging and rewarding. White can represent light, texture, and subtle contrasts. When painting snow, for example, you can use shadows in light blue or gray to define its shape and depth, giving it dimension against the stark white paper. Highlights can also be enhanced by layering transparent washes or adding specks of color to mimic the reflection of sunlight on snow. Incorporating these techniques can help bring out the beauty and realism of a winter scene.

This approach allowed me to create a winter scene that feels dynamic and textured, despite the challenge of working with so much white. Check out the result in the gallery and see how the reverse subtraction technique brings the "Winter Maple" to life.

Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com


   

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) art techniques color selection maple tree art reverse subtraction painting seasonal paintings snow painting white on white winter scene https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-uses-color Sat, 25 Jan 2025 05:59:04 GMT
Who Says, Stay Centered? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-says-stay-centered    Artists Are Trained to Be Off-Center

Many people say, "Get in formation!" But artists are trained to go their own way. While following cultural dictates may have its advantages at times, the artist's path often leads somewhere off-center, exploring uncharted territories.

As I paint, I try to approach each dilemma or problem as though I were blind—not in darkness, but blind to all possibilities. In a sense, artists are all blind—blind to conventions, to limits, and to expectations. Being "blind" allows us to look beyond what is immediately visible, to trust our inner vision rather than relying on what we’ve been taught to see. It’s not about being unaware, but about suspending judgment and embracing the unknown. I challenge myself to see things with fresh eyes, unaffected by preconceived notions.

For example, take my painting "Realto Rainbow" in the Dreamscape Gallery. The colors appear off-center, as if they’re soaring out of the frame, suggesting movement, change, and fluidity. There's no strict formation because the painting, like the artist, is forging its own path.

I wasn’t blind in the traditional sense while creating this painting, of course. My eyes were wide open, but in a way, I closed them to everything I thought I knew. I followed my own feelings, diving into an abyss of the unknown—what some may call emotion. What emotion, exactly? The emotion of yellow, aqua, gold, and my own blackness. An area void of light, yes—it’s dark, but within this darkness, I found a moment of temporary escape.

In that moment, I realized that nothing is real except for the colors in the rainbow of my painting. These colors won’t fade away like the rainbows we chase after when the rain stops. They are permanent, existing only within this space, untouched by time or weather.

The blind path is not one of ignorance but of discovery. Artists are blind in the sense that they have to venture into the unknown with each new piece. We can't always see where our work will take us. But that's the beauty of it—we let go of certainty and trust in the process. We are led not by what we see, but by what we feel, and that is where true creation begins.

 

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Artistic independence Blindness (metaphorical) Creativity Discovery Embracing the unknown Exploration Individuality Inner vision Intuition Preconceived notions https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-says-stay-centered Thu, 23 Jan 2025 21:07:41 GMT
Who invented the Saying "Hang Together?" https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-invented-the-saying-hang-together    

"Icy Tree" – A Case Study in Balance and Composition

The phrase “It is written” often evokes a sense of certainty and finality. Interestingly, the idiom traces its roots to the United Kingdom during the revolutionary war, where the English would say, "United we stand, divided we fall." It’s a sentiment that suggests strength in unity—hang together, or face the consequences of disarray.

Painters often hear variations of this message, albeit in a more specific form: "Balance is key." To an artist, balance represents much more than symmetry; it’s the relationship between design, composition, and the careful placement of elements to guide the viewer's eye toward a cohesive direction. A central theme or subject often provides this direction, helping the viewer to interpret the painting as a whole.

But art isn’t always about following the rules. Sometimes, an artist will deliberately throw the viewer off balance, forcing them into a state of confusion or discomfort. It’s a choice that challenges expectations and makes the viewer engage on a deeper level. In my painting "Icy Tree", however, the composition intentionally seeks harmony. Or, does it?

When you take a look at "Icy Tree" (which you can view in the Tree Gallery section), you may wonder: Does this painting hang together or not? The answer, as I’ve come to realize, is kind of, sort of, maybe. While I certainly followed most of the rules of design and composition, I might’ve strayed just a little too far into abstraction in terms of the colors and layout. The result is a piece that may appear slightly unbalanced at first glance.

But here's where the title makes a difference: "Icy Tree." By naming the painting, I created an anchor, a bridge between the abstract forms and the viewer’s expectations. The title invites you to engage with the work, bringing it down to Earth, so to speak. The ice may be painted in unusual colors, but the title suggests something familiar—a tree, frozen in time. It provides context and meaning to what might otherwise feel like chaos.

In this instance, I turned to my brother, Dan, for help. I asked him to contribute a title that would bring a sense of cohesion to the composition. With just a few words, his suggestion did exactly that. It provided the necessary "hang togetherness" that transformed a fragmented piece into a unified whole.

Sometimes, it’s not just about the brushstrokes or the color choices. It’s about the story we tell through the title, the viewer’s perspective, and the way everything comes together. "Icy Tree" may break a rule or two, but it still manages to convey a sense of unity in its own, unique way.

So, does it hang together? In the end, I think it does. And if you look closely, you might see that even in the abstract, there’s a bit of order waiting to be discovered.

Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) divided we fall Abstract painting Art critique Art design Artist perspective Artistic rules Balance in art Composition Icy Tree Painting analysis Painting title Revolutionary war idiom United we stand Viewer engagement Visual composition Visual harmony https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-invented-the-saying-hang-together Wed, 22 Jan 2025 22:01:14 GMT
What, paint outside the lines? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/what-paint-outside-the-lines Growing Beyond the Lines: A Journey Through "Whorled Loosestrife"

Growing up, I was always told to "color inside the lines," a simple piece of advice meant to guide me toward structure and order. But what if I told you that the lines themselves were never the key? My painting, Whorled Loosestrife, which resides in the blue/green artwork gallery, invites you to question this very concept. In my work, I’ve asked: “Lines? What lines?” And you’ll see, they aren’t there. Instead, I’ve created an illusion that suggests lines, but never actually uses them. This, for me, speaks volumes about how lines in art—or life—might not be as essential as we once thought.

This piece is more than just a painting. It’s a study of color, an exploration drawn from my personal "lost x-file." For me, the x-file is not just a forgotten folder of paper; it’s the collection of memories that linger at the edges of consciousness—memories that I both want to forget and yet, often, cannot escape. These recollections, many of them from a turbulent youth, pop back into my mind at unexpected moments, urging me to reevaluate them.

It’s precisely this duality of recollection and forgetting that inspired my journey into painting beyond the lines. Through painting and coloring outside the prescribed borders, I’ve discovered a form of healing. These creative acts became my refuge, helping me to confront and process the traumas I experienced as a young person. It was through this expression that I learned something powerful: that freedom exists beyond the boundaries we are taught to obey. And in that freedom, I began to understand myself more deeply.

With each brushstroke outside the lines, I unlocked a little more of my own freedom. The act of painting became not just an artistic endeavor, but a survival mechanism, a way to heal and redefine who I am. Whorled Loosestrife is a testament to this journey. When I break the boundaries in my art, I find that I also break the walls that once confined me emotionally and mentally. Art has given me an eternal realm of freedom—an ongoing conversation with my past, present, and future.

For me, painting outside the lines is no longer an act of rebellion; it’s a way of surviving. It’s a path to understanding the intricate layers of my identity, and it’s something I carry with me in every piece of art I create. Through this process, I no longer fear what’s outside the lines—I embrace it. And in doing so, I invite you to join me in this exploration of what happens when we let go of the lines and simply paint our truth.

 Peace and love. Russ Myers   

myersbrothersart.com       

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) breaking boundaries color study creative freedom healing through art lost x-file painting outside the lines self-expression Whorled Loosestrife https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/what-paint-outside-the-lines Wed, 22 Jan 2025 21:48:01 GMT
What is Painter's Power? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/what-is-painters-power   The Power of the Artist’s Vision: Painting Beyond Color

As an artist, it’s not just about color, composition, or theme—it’s about tapping into a deeper truth. The true artist within an artist discovers the power of humanity’s self-truth through the act of creation. My goal in painting is to bring forth something meaningful—not only for myself but for others as well. Through my work, I aim to help viewers connect to a shared vision, to feel something beyond what’s visually presented.

Nature is a boundless source of inspiration. It’s full of life, in all its various stages of growth and transformation. For me, painting from Mother Nature’s treasure trove—be it plants, animals, or the changing landscape—is an opportunity to showcase the cycle of life itself. A simple seed, planted with care, grows into something beautiful and bountiful. It’s a process that nourishes the body and soul. The act of watching something bloom, and then harvesting it to provide sustenance, mirrors so much of our human experience.

Take my painting "Carrots" in the Fruits and Vegetables Gallery, for example. Sure, I want the viewer to appreciate the vibrant color of the carrots. But, above all, I want them to feel the crunch as they chew—an experience that transcends mere visual representation. This sensation isn’t just conveyed through the color and form of the painting; it’s conveyed through the brushstroke, the texture, the movement of the paint itself. Every curve, bend, and detail adds a layer of meaning.

I may only have color to work with, but my artist’s power allows me to imbue my paintings with more than just a likeness. Each carrot in my piece is unique—slightly bent, thicker or thinner, longer or shorter. Some still have their green leaves intact, reflecting how they’ve soaked up the warmth of the sun and the nourishment of rain. These imperfections give the carrot character, and through this, I offer recognition to a humble, everyday food we often take for granted.

Through the brush, I am not just painting a vegetable; I am telling a story. Each carrot is a narrative of life and growth—rooted in the earth, nourished by nature, and ultimately, providing nourishment for the body. As I create, I invite the viewer to feel not just the visual aspect of the piece, but the connection to the experience of growth and sustenance that all life shares.

In this way, the artist within the artist seeks to elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, to allow the viewer to see not just the color of the carrot, but the life it represents. And in doing so, we can all find nourishment in the simplest of things—through art, through nature, and through each other.

Peace and love. Russ Myers
myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Artist's vision carrots Color and composition Growth cycle Meaningful art Nature-inspired painting Nourishment Rooted in nature Self-truth https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/what-is-painters-power Wed, 22 Jan 2025 21:39:39 GMT
Beach Photos- Include the Ocean https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/beach-photos--include-the-ocean  

When photographing at the beach, no matter what your subject, I feel it's important to include the ocean in the composition.

The ocean is not just a backdrop; it brings a unique sense of scale, movement, and atmosphere to your photos. Whether you’re shooting a portrait, a landscape, or candid moments of people enjoying the sand and surf, the inclusion of the ocean creates a sense of place and adds depth to your images.

Here are some tips for effectively incorporating the ocean into your beach photography:

1. Use the Horizon Line

The horizon line is a powerful compositional element. To create a balanced image, consider the rule of thirds. Place the horizon either one-third from the top or bottom of the frame, depending on whether you want to emphasize the sky or the ocean. Keeping the horizon straight is crucial to maintaining a professional look.

2. Capture Reflections and Textures

The wet sand near the water’s edge can reflect the sky, clouds, and even your subject, adding an extra layer of interest. Additionally, the ripples in the sand, waves crashing on the shore, or patterns left by the tide provide dynamic textures that enrich your composition.

3. Embrace Golden Hour

The golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—is ideal for beach photography. The warm, soft light during these times enhances the natural beauty of the ocean and creates dramatic shadows and highlights. The colors of the sky during golden hour also complement the blues and greens of the water.

4. Include Foreground Elements

To add depth and context to your photos, include foreground elements such as rocks, driftwood, shells, or footprints. These details not only frame the ocean but also help to guide the viewer’s eye through the image.

5. Showcase Movement

The ocean is constantly in motion. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze crashing waves or a slow shutter speed to create a dreamy, blurred effect. Capturing movement brings life and energy to your shots.

6. Play with Angles and Perspectives

Experiment with low angles to make the ocean appear vast and imposing or shoot from a higher vantage point to reveal patterns and textures in the water. Changing your perspective can make even familiar beach scenes feel fresh and exciting.

7. Mind the Weather

Cloudy days at the beach can be just as photogenic as sunny ones. Dramatic skies paired with a moody ocean create a different but equally captivating aesthetic. Don’t be afraid to shoot in less-than-perfect conditions—the results might surprise you.

8. Incorporate People or Wildlife

Including people or wildlife in your ocean shots provides a sense of scale and interaction. A lone figure walking along the shoreline, seabirds in flight, or surfers riding the waves can make your composition more compelling.

By thoughtfully including the ocean in your beach photography, you create images that are not only visually stunning but also evoke the emotions and memories associated with the sea. So next time you head to the beach with your camera, let the ocean be your muse.

 

 

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) backdrop beach photography color composition impact include ocean interest ocean https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/beach-photos--include-the-ocean Tue, 21 Jan 2025 15:27:31 GMT
Who Says Colors Vibrate? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-says-colors-vibrate  The Art of Red: Slowing Down to Speed Up the Creative Process

In the realm of both science and art, color plays a profound role in how we perceive and experience the world. Take the color red, for example. Science suggests that red vibrates at a frequency of 432 Hz, a frequency known for its harmonious and grounding properties. However, in the world of painting, red becomes something far more dynamic, something that transcends the limitations of measurable vibrations. For the artist, red doesn’t just sit still at 432 Hz—it can move at light speed and beyond, a velocity our brains are intuitively drawn to.

But here’s the catch: while our minds race to interpret the energy of the color, our brushes can lag behind. This is the paradox of painting—the creative mind operates faster than the tools at hand. So, how do painters bridge that gap? How do we use color, particularly the vibrant reds, to make an impact without losing our creative flow? The answer lies in a technique I call TABA—Take A Breath Artist.

The Speed of Thought vs. the Speed of Painting

For the painter, color becomes a tool of expression that requires both patience and an understanding of the relationship between the mind and the physical act of painting. The colors we work with, such as barn red, fire engine red, or the softer tones of magenta, often seem to demand immediate action. They pull us into a state of quick creative thought, urging us to make bold, fast decisions.

Yet, as we work on a canvas, we often find that the speed of our imagination does not match the speed of our brush. When working with vibrant hues like red, the process can become a bit like trying to catch up with a racecar with a bicycle—an exercise in patience. At times, this can cause frustration, especially when dealing with tricky colors that don’t quite match the mental image we envision. Red, especially, has this power—it can seem too bright, too intense, or even too harsh for the calm, balanced tone we may need in our artwork.

This is where TABA comes in.

TABA: Slowing Down to Embrace the Art

When I’m in the studio and the reds aren’t working for me, I use a simple trick. If the red is not ready-made or pre-mixed, I start with pink. It’s a lighter, gentler color that serves as a base, and from there, I begin adding in red, bit by bit, until I find that perfect shade. The process of layering allows me to temper the intensity of red while giving me the time and space to adjust the balance, the tone, and the texture of the color. It’s like adjusting to the speed of thought.

This method—starting with pink and gradually adding red—is a way of slowing my brain down, so to speak. It helps me align my mind and my brush, to allow the act of painting to become as fluid as the ideas that originally sparked it. I call this process "Take A Breath Artist" or TABA. It’s a reminder to slow down, focus, and let the painting unfold at its own pace.

The Role of TABA in "Torch Ginger"

One piece where I employed TABA is in my painting "Torch Ginger", featured in the herb gallery. The subject of the artwork—a vibrant, fiery plant—required bright, intense reds that needed to feel both natural and artistic. Using TABA, I started with softer tones and gradually built up the colors until I achieved the right balance. The result is a more controlled, deliberate application of red, allowing the fiery quality of the plant to emerge while maintaining a sense of artistic harmony.

By using TABA, I was able to capture the essence of the plant without allowing the intensity of red to overwhelm the piece. This slow-down technique gave me the flexibility to work within the speed of thought, ensuring that my brush was always one step ahead, yet never rushed.

Conclusion: Mastering the Speed of Color

As artists, we’re constantly navigating the gap between the speed of thought and the limits of our tools. The color red, with all its vibrancy and energy, can be both a challenge and a gift. By using techniques like TABA, we learn to slow down and give our creative processes the space they need to develop. In doing so, we can truly harness the power of color—allowing it to work at its full potential without ever losing the rhythm of our artistic flow.

So, the next time you're working with red (or any color), remember to take a breath. Slow your mind, and let your brush create.

Peace and love. Russ Myers  

myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) 432Hz artist color theory painting technique red speed of thought TABA vibration https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-says-colors-vibrate Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:59:17 GMT
Who Are You, Artist? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-are-you-artist     Who are you, artist? I have my own answer, for me, a growing painter.  I paint because I am alive, I'm alive because I paint. 

I paint, in sync, simultaneously with every breath, heartbeat, thought, feeling and emotion in and around me. I am constantly creating and recreating the painting that I am and manifesting myself into the art.

It is a twenty-four-seven-three-sixty-five process of honesty, meaning and being.

Take a walk through my painting "Woodland Trail" in the landscape gallery. At that precise moment in the pristine forest, as an elementary art student, I discovered I am a painter.

Surrounded by nature, I was transformed from a civilian into an artist. I was ready to make a significant commitment and shift my identity and lifestyle. The process can be challenging, but it also provides a sense of purpose and belonging. 

I began a journey of self-evaluation and self-education into the art world of painting.

Encompassing all things artistic, I studied. As I walk on my woodland trail today I continue to grow while learning from nature. I seek the truth of change: summer to fall, fall to winter, winter to spring and back again. The cycle of life.

Peace and love. Russ Myers          

myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) artist commitment growth honesty transformation who are you https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/who-are-you-artist Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:12:34 GMT
What is Bias in Painting? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/what-is-bias-painting     Bias can be defined as a deviation from expectations of a value or the act of modifying an expected mean. 

Painting bias is a natural act that is supposed to take place. I feel this is true because all painting is abstract or an act of summarization. A painter's artistic sensibility for his/her artwork is a filter of design, color, line and theme taken from one's own experience.

Bias comes from repeating favorite techniques from habit. A favorite technique can be done purposefully and consciously. Is that artistic bias? No.

The perceptions of each individual painter is different from any other painter. When a group of painters have the same subject matter, such as a particular landscape, each painting will be seen from a different artist perspective. It is based on the artist location, field of view and as seen through their own filter bias. Understanding this concept can lead to freer expression, imposing less negative self-judgement. Creative freedom is the goal.

Bias creates individuality, uniqueness and the artist own expression of beauty.

It is a cause for celebration. In this way painters create their own style, due to each having a different perspective of the landscape both physically, mentally and emotionally.

There are many shades of gray between abstract and representational art. 

Peace and love. Russ Myers

myersbrothersart .com    

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) all painting is abstract bias in painting perspective shades of gray https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/what-is-bias-painting Mon, 20 Jan 2025 15:05:49 GMT
What is Art Space? Vision within a vision. https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-space     Art space is not the size or area of a painting but the size and area of any creative limitations.

Think or assume in limitations and your vision become limited. Visions are ideas of things yet to be experienced with a brush, paint and a blank surface.

Let's say my subject matter is based in nature, for example, a tree. Am I limited by its form and function or limited by who I am? View the painting "Moonlit Summer Maple" in the tree gallery. I did not place any limits on my theme, moonlight, so I FIRST envisioned moonbeams being projected from the moon passing down through the tree branches. Realistically there are no such things as moonbeams until I create a vision within a vision.

SECOND, according to my vision, I paint moonbeams of light streaming from the moon onto the tree, passing around the branches of the tree planted in the ground. Utilizing this method, two visions, creates who I am as a painter/artist.

Peace and love. Russ Myers      

myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) Art space cvision within a vision limitations limits negative art space positive art space Space in art https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-space Mon, 20 Jan 2025 14:27:21 GMT
Is Blue Really Blue? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/is-blue-really-blue      Paint a small to medium sized color blue on your surface. Next to it paint some pink. The blue you just painted changed. Because by painting the pink next to the blue your mind is now processing blue/pink. Not blue alone. Paint green next to the blue/pink. The blue changed again. Is blue really blue?

Painters are free to intentionally create a new world for ourselves and at the same time affect the perception of others.

Paint yellow next to the blue/pink/green. The blue changed again. Here is where your artistic intuition becomes a top priority. I call this feelings. When under an intentional amount of control, feelings are powerfully dynamic.

Feel the colors being processed as your composition is becoming a work of art. Change the blue you first painted by adding a little white. Paint that on your surface. Next, paint a lighter shade of pink and place that next to your new blue. Do the same to green, make it a little lighter. Now the yellow, make it lighter. Paint the new blue/pink/green/yellow next to each other. Compare the first area to the second area. Do you feel the power of color? Is blue really blue? 

Recommended reading:  Indigo: In Search of the Color That Seduced the World

by  and 

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 
Peace and love.  Russ

myersbrotherart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) color symbolism in art emotional meaning of art colors importance of color in art types of colors in art painting https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/is-blue-really-blue Fri, 17 Jan 2025 23:45:16 GMT
Emotions of Painting Color https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-colors     When painting try not to think so much, if at all. Feel it. Given, subject matter does matter.

To me the most intriguing factor contained in a painting is color. All else aside, color stimulates my emotions. Landscape painting is highly emotional. Imagine looking out over the desert at sunset and you feel nature's song in your heart singing paint me, paint me.

"Saguaro Landscape" in the red and purple gallery is a song, painted, filled with emotional color. Daylight is fading. The sky is multi-colored. The sun will only be in view for a few more minutes. Orange settles around the distant mountains. Greens are muted. Sand turns to gold. A warm breeze blows on my face. The saguaro cacti are cooling down.

This emotion has now become timeless. I have captured the essence of my feelings. 

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 
Peace and love. Russ

myersbrothersart.com   

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) color emotion emotional essence feeling painting timeless https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-colors Fri, 17 Jan 2025 05:10:20 GMT
The Versatile Paint Brush https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/paint-brushes     As there are two sides to every story, there are two ends on every brush. The working end of a brush are the bristles, the opposite end has many other interesting uses. For example, when a painting is wet you can use the rounded handle end to draw lines in the paint without damaging the surface. Making lines in thick paint helps to invent spaces that add feeling to the design. The lines create artistic ridges for a relief sculpture effect in thick paint. Some brushes have a tapered tip cut or molded to a nice edge that's good to smooth out paint, adding variety. A rounded end cannot achieve this effect since it cannot scrape off enough unwanted paint.

Brushes are sometimes useful as a back scratcher. 

Brushes are like keys on a piano. Hard strokes are thick and loud. Soft strokes are thin and quiet. In-between strokes will probably create the fulness that completes your painting.

Brushes are oval, pointed, square, tapered, small or large. Cleaned after every use they can last a very long time. I have some brushes I still use that I bought over 50 years ago.

Artists pallet knives are brush-like tools that create a modern look akin to bricklaying, achieving a look envied by any brush.

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 
Peace and love. Russ

myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) artist brushes brushes draw lines effect" invent spaces knife" paint pallet sculpture thick paint https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/paint-brushes Fri, 17 Jan 2025 05:00:22 GMT
Art History Now https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-history-now     Studying the various styles of images on the internet, TV, movies, photographs, magazines, catalogs and advertising, etc. benefits artists. They help inform our contemporary culture of artistic vision.

Also, art history's vast collection of artwork and associated educational information helps painters explore composition, color, design and feeling. Studying art history can create a comfort level to express yourself in your own unique way by broadening your knowledge.

Many instructional publications are devoted to the history of art to encourage learning about different artistic movements or periods. Studying art throughout human existence builds appreciation of art. I can recommend: History of Art by H.W. Janson, Anthony F. Janson, Dora Jane Janson

Reading biographies about the life and times of individual artists is an education in itself. As you, in your own way, travel into the realm of art history the paintings you create are your own art history. I can recommend: Studio of the South: Van Gogh in Provence.

I believe all painters should study other painters. It seems natural.

Notice my painting "Saint John's Wort" in the Invasive But Beautiful gallery. Never has this bloom ever been painted exactly like this. I call this style of painting "Vision of a Vision".

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 
Peace and love. Russ 

myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) art appreciation art history artist education biographies color composition design explore feeling style https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-history-now Wed, 15 Jan 2025 18:02:06 GMT
White, a Color? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/white-a-color Yes and no. To a painter, yes. To others, no. A bride, more than likely, is the exception.

White has always been a symbol of purity. Painters and different artists use canvas, paper or screens that are offshoots of purity just by the fact of being white.
Many times I utilize the color white to dramatize a painting as a whole or maybe just sometimes in certain areas. Observe the artwork "Rocky Mountain Columbine" in the blue/green gallery.

I've accented parts of the top, middle and bottom of the painting with brush strokes of pure white to create a mood of vibrant outdoor life and sunshine. My favorite tool for doing these strokes is the fan brush.

I have made a study of interior design. Within this artistic medium pure white is seldom utilized. However, a painter finds white indispensable as an accent color or for deintensification of a primary hue. 

White is a "colorful" and wonderful tool, essential to a composition. White creates drama in negative spaces, adds three-dimensionality and accents reflective surfaces.

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 
Peace and love. Russ

myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) accent accent color dramatize fan brush mood pure white purity sunshine tool vibrant white white color https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/white-a-color Wed, 15 Jan 2025 15:13:20 GMT
Art Costs and Freedom https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-costs What does a pencil and a sheet of paper cost? Nothing. Now, draw something. Anything.

Art surrounds us. Even the air. Remember the art inside of you is unique.

Here's a hint on how to begin.

Believe your pencil touching the paper is your individual feelings waiting to be made visual. You will be drawing four faint lines. Move your pencil across the paper dividing the space in a tic tac toe pattern. Top to bottom left to right, dividing the space into thirds. Look at your design. The lines intersect in the middle at four points. At or around one of these points is where you will draw, not to small but in a general way, a simple circle, square or triangle. Notice it's off center. You have now discovered the three secrets of painting.

The rule of thirds, the rule of off center and the rule of artistic psychology.

View my painting "Baja Sunset" in the Dreamscape Gallery. In your imagination see how I divided my surface into thirds. Observe the sun off a little to the right. I painted in a few colors to accentuate my visual theme, a sunset. This is one of many classic designs where you can create many versions of who you are in the space you live.

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 

 

Peace and love. Russ

myersbrothersart.com
 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) art design discovery drawing freedom off center painting paper pencil psychology rule of thirds thirds https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-costs Wed, 15 Jan 2025 14:48:43 GMT
Painting the Oddity of Chaos: Abstract Realism https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-the-oddity-of-chaos That's odd! We say. That's chaos! We say. 

What does that mean to a painter? Simply stated it's "Oddos". A combining of two words (odd and chaos) that defy any interpretation. Except, when visually expressed by the painter.

Many people say artists are a little off in the head. They draw a circle around their ear, point to the artist and snicker. Artist, have no fear, because you were just given a compliment.

The painter's goal is to interpret the behavior of humanity, both odd and chaotic, trying to make artistic sense out of it. In other words be abstract and realistic, summarizing the blurry and sharp attitudes and perceptions of humanity through your art.

Often, in my paintings I incorporate what is termed abstract realism. It's a summarization of form and color with a splash of something people call reality. See my painting "Mist after the Rain" in the Dreamscape Gallery.

Abstract realism was invented during the French Expressionism period around 1900, an art movement that characterized the use of expressive colors and brushwork to convey subjective feelings and experiences.

Abstract realism is an art style that combines abstract art and realism to create a subjective impression of reality. Abstract art uses colors, textures, lines, and shapes to convey emotion or rhythm, while realism aims to capture details of nature and reality. Abstract realism is a modern take on traditional painting that allows for more freedom and creativity. Very often I observe the world in this fashion.

When I mix some abstractness with a little realism I create "Oddos". A window into the oddly chaotic world.

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 

 

Peace and love. Russ

myersbrothersart.com
 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) abstract realism artist artistic sense behavior chaos color French expressionism humanity lines odd shapes summarize texture https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-the-oddity-of-chaos Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:51:58 GMT
Art Sales... Ugh! https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-sales     I approach the subject of selling art like I would when beginning a painting-  with an idea or inspiration... followed by a little research. For example, some of my paintings are of birds. Go to my painting Northern Cardinals in the Birds, Bees and Butterflies Gallery. To research cardinals I begin by asking questions like who, what, when, were and how. Marketing is no different.

Except, if your dead set against selling your artwork. In that case try to rethink marketing your artwork. Maybe do some online research and get inspired.

Earlier in my life I wanted to be a wedding photographer. Wanting to do that, I met with a professional wedding photographer who was glad to help. Gosh, I said to myself, is this marketing? I followed his advice and spent 20 years as a pro wedding photographer loving every second of my photography dream actually coming true. 

My brother, Dan, discovered my wedding photography career. I gave him a book about photography and he started his own photography business. Now we are myersbrothersart.com creating a website and marketing our skills. 

Getting over the thought of rejection is the most difficult part. I believe if just one out of ten people get truly excited about your work- you have the basis for a business! Then it just becomes a matter of getting your work in front of lots of people.

Marketing is developing your style, then getting it out there in front of lots of people. It's important to find a high traffic area to exhibit/sell your work.

Peace and love. Russ Myers   

myersbrothersart.com

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 


    

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) advice Art marketing business career exhibit idea ideas inspiration marketing photography sell selling style traffic https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-sales Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:49:45 GMT
Painting: The Art of Discovery https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-is-communication First, the artist's self. Second, the artist's vision. Third, the artistic message.

Experience teaches artists to feel the colors, design and message without words. To a painter, words can sometimes become a bottomless pit of anxiety. Often I am inspired to start a painting because something has caught my attention, such as, the misty light on a rainy day or an innocent child's voice.

To stay focused with the art of painting it helps to develop a personal technique. Technique for painters are shapes. The size of the shapes. The color of the shapes.

One of my painting techniques I call the "Myers Back Hand". I choose a color and spread it around but not too big. Then I choose another color and paint it next to the first color. Then I proceed to use colors that make smaller or larger painterly shapes that fill my canvas or paper. I try to mix the colors, shapes and sizes into an eye pleasing composition. Now with a small brush I paint black outlines to form the subject composition.

I find this technique keeps my brush moving almost spontaneously. In this way I "discover" the painting hidden on the canvas. It's a technique that rarely fails me.

See my painting "Two Butterflies" in the Birds, Bees and Butterflies gallery as an example of this technique. I continue painting the butterflies one smaller and one larger... keeping the overall composition pleasing. It's okay if the brush enters into another color. Try it.

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 
 

Peace and Love. Russ Myers. 

myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) art art lessons artist color composition design discover discovery message Myers Back Hand painting self technique vision https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-is-communication Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:38:15 GMT
Art as Illusion: Negative Space https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-as-illusion Artist-painters live in a self-made illusion created on a two dimensional surface. It is a medium that often sets artists free of normal conventions to study, feel and explore the imagination.

An important factor in the painting artform is negative space. Negative space, also known as whitespace, is the "empty" space around and between the subject of an image or design.

To a painter this no-thing is a positive addition (subtraction?) to a painting. Human beings need their vision to rest in a no-thing space in order to better see the artists point of view. The subject within the artwork usually needs "breathing space" for the viewer to focus more easily on the artist's subject.

Negative space can improve the "rhythm" of an artwork, improving the overall composition.

Imagine counting to ten when you are frustrated about something or angry. This pause can give you the opportunity to evaluate the situation and relax somewhat. However, with a painting we don't need a ten count because we intuitively feel something is not right or out of balance. Paintings can be too busy and contain information the viewer cannot process logically.

Negative space creates a visual ten-count. I refer you to my painting of "Orange Tree" in the Fruit and Vegetable gallery as an example of the use of negative space.

Not all paintings have or need negative space, depending on the artist's intention. Experimenting with the use of canvas space can yield surprising visual results.

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 
 

Peace and love. Russ Myers     

myersbrothersart.com
 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) art artist composition intention intuition negative space Orange Tree painting rhythm ten count vision https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/art-as-illusion Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:41:08 GMT
Do You Dream in Color? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/dreaming-in-color It's okay. Many people dream in color, especially artistic types of individuals. 

In my youth I discovered that my night dreams extended into the light of day. Back then it was hard to know if I was asleep and dreaming or awake and daydreaming. Mostly, because colors were the same. The colors were very vivid no matter what time it was. As time passed, I managed to separate night dreaming from daydreaming.

Color perception continues to deeply influence my art.

I remember while growing up and attending school I would look out the windows as much as possible so I could see the colors of the sky. Some days the sky was blue, other days gray and sometimes a bright white. Often, I would pick up a pencil and start drawing clouds, birds and trees. I would compose a kind of storyboard and sketch a stormy sky, with an airplane in flight, green grass with a rabbit running by, then add different kinds of landscaping.

I would enter a very subjective world, painted by my imagination.

Now, when I paint, I basically do the same thing, mixed with personal feelings, tastes, experiences and opinions. I let go of the objective reality of time and place, trying to reflect the true perspective of my inner being. However, I learned this requires the ability to perceive the colorful realities of nighttime and daytime equally, in order to maintain a balance of artistic rationality.

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 


Peace and love. 

Russ Myers       myersbrothersart.com

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) art artists color daydreams dreaming dreams night dreams painting perception https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/dreaming-in-color Sat, 11 Jan 2025 16:08:33 GMT
Painting: The Art of Emotions https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-the-art-of-emotions     To me, painting is above all, an emotional experience. While painting, each brush stroke can communicate a feeling based on your emotional state at the time.

When a painting is completed it expresses an overall feeling that gives it impact and a message.

   Intentionally or not, emotions are who we uniquely are. Artists express who they are through the use of color and composition. Emotions tell our story, to others, about how we feel. Mainly, it is the deeply human inner voice of our Self. 

Painting's have color and each color contains several meaningful emotions.

   Let's say, I feel red. This color could represent passion. Let's say, I feel green. This color could represent being at rest. Let's say, I feel black. This color could represent power. Let's say, I feel blue. This color could represent calmness. 

What color or combination of colors are you now? Go ahead, paint how you feel. This now becomes your signature of Self, your Style. 

Artists are on a truly human journey. They are visually answering the question- who am I?

I am available for online one-on-one art lessons. Please click on ART LESSONS on the home page for more information. 

Humbly submitted. Thank you.

Russ Myers       

myersbrothersart.com
 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) art art of emotions artist artist journey artists brush stroke color emotion feeling intention painting who am I https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/painting-the-art-of-emotions Fri, 10 Jan 2025 14:30:32 GMT
Birds, Bees and Butterflies https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/birds-bees-and-butterflies    Of course we are aware that the wildlife within the environment need our help. Here are some options for beginning to help... 

  • Garden with native plants while avoiding invasive plants
  • Educate others about the importance of native plants
  • Do both of the above

Other practices that promote sustainability and improve our environment include:

  • Minimize your lawn area as much as possible to reduce gasoline and chemical use
  • Avoid chemicals, such as Roundup, that negatively affect pollinator insects
  • Allow leaves to remain on your property, they act as a natural mulch, save water and increase biomass
  • Start a compost pile for food, kitchen and garden waste
  • Conserve water in the home and install rain barrels
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle and upcycle
  • Save energy in the home
  • Sustainable shopping
  • Reduce meat consumption, increase plant-based meals
  • Walk, bike, use public transportation and drive electric vehicles
  • Plant trees
  • Support local farmers and sustainable food systems
  • Air dry your clothes
  • Go solar
  • Buy second-hand

Just think, every day we have 1,000's of opportunities to choose something that makes the world a little better. None of us get it 100% right but if we all do the best we can and just think about it, think a little more broadly, then I think we will make a tremendous difference.

myersbrothersart.com
 

 

 

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) bees biomass birds butterflies compost invasive plants landscape leaves minimize lawn native plants nature plant trees pollinators rain barrels recycle sustainability https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2025/1/birds-bees-and-butterflies Fri, 03 Jan 2025 13:13:49 GMT
Who are the Myers' Brothers? https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2024/12/who-are-the-myers-brothers Russ and I were preacher's kids. Growing up we were almost like gypsies, having to move every three or fours years. We are used to challenges. There is a four year age difference between us. Because of the age difference we didn't hang out together very much while growing up. But now we have reconnected with a purpose. We both have developed talents over the years, that when combined make us an unstoppable team. 

So we are both now "retired". Russ has been an airline reservationist, Coast Guard Petty Officer, fine art school graduate, career upholsterer, wedding photographer and Respiratory Therapist. I have been a baker, greenhouse grower/manager, wedding and landscape photographer, Respiratory Therapist and digital editor/fine art printer. 

We are developing this website to inform people about the importance of using native plants in their landscape. Also, to discourage people from using invasive plants. Using native plants will help tremendously in sustaining our balance of nature and ensuring sustainability for future generations. I strongly encourage you to join Homegrown National Park and help our dwindling birds, bees and butterflies.

Thank you for your support. Dan myersbrothersart.com

"In the past, we have asked one thing of our gardens: that they be pretty. Now they have to support life, sequester carbon, feed pollinators and manage water."     

Doug Tallamy, co-founder Homegrown National Park

https://homegrownnationalpark.org/

 

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(Decorative Artworks Celebrating the Natural World) bees birds butterflies invasive plants landscape native plants nature sustainability https://www.myersbrothersart.com/blog/2024/12/who-are-the-myers-brothers Tue, 31 Dec 2024 03:32:33 GMT