Windswept Tide

 Windswept Tide, 20x20" acrylic on canvas
©2024 Helen Read 

More information on this painting can be seen here

Delving into abstract painting is challenging, but it is also invigorating.  As this painting began to make itself seen, I began to imagine something aquatic and powerful.  The blues and greens, quite calming colors, are interrupted by metallic golds and coppers.  And the sweeping composition is less than calming, implying power and force.  

 

(a detail photographed in low lighting to show the metallic parts of the painting)

 

The sides of this painting are painted (as shown below) so framing is not needed.  But should it be desired, a floater frame is suggested so that the sides can be seen. 

Shown in proportion within a room setting. 

Please visit my website to see more art that may be perfect for your home!

Landscape Paintings in a Local Exhibit!

 Your invitation to a vibrant, colorful landscape painting exhibit

December 2 - 29th, 2024
at
Indian Prairie Library
401 Plainfield Rd., Darien, IL  

Ten paintings that mostly come from the geography of the Midwest.
All four seasons are represented. 

You can also see all of these paintings (and more) at my website!

Abstract Experimentation!

 Abstract art has many different "styles".
I'm not a fan of all of them, but some styles and textures and colors really draw me in and engage with my emotions and imagination.   I've been using my studio as a lab in these past weeks -
an opportunity to learn, to try new things, try different colors together. 

Who knows what might come of these ideas! 

Beside Still Waters

 Beside Still Waters
16x20" Oil on canvas
© Helen C Read 

The beauty of still water - even on this hot summer day - reminds me of the 23rd Psalm.
There's a sense of calm and peace... that all is well in the world. 

That's something we particularly need in our time! 

This painting can be seen at my gallery website. 
It is painted around the sides and would be perfect for a floater frame.

Take a Peek! Do you love seeing the artistic process?

 

(Unfinished - still on the easel.  Check out the YouTube video below to see my process so far!)

I always enjoy seeing the artistic process that other artists use.  There are things to learn, and new ideas to try.

This latest painting is still on my easel.  It measures 16x20" and is painted with oil on stretched canvas.  I took the reference picture at Morton Arboretum in Lisle, IL on a hot summer day.

You can see the process I've used in this short 4 minute video that explains how I started and have proceeded so far.  It's not yet finished but when it is, I'll title it and it will be seen on my gallery website (https://HelenCRead.com)

See the Youtube video here!

Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel while you are there!

Today is a Great Day to....

 

Become an Artful Friend!
JOIN HERE

 

When you do, you'll get a once a month colorful arty note from me with something fun I make just for you!   In October, I'll be having a drawing to win this original oil painting!  All the details about how to enter to win will be in that note.   I love sending these small paintings to friends.  They are a FREE gift ~ Over the years, I've mailed them coast to coast and overseas as well. 

 

The drawing for this bluejay painting will be the last Artful Friends drawing of 2024! 
I'd love to include you in the drawing that will occur in early October.

 

 

What else can my friends expect??   You'll see the new work I've been working on during the last few weeks and friendly news from my side of the easel. I frequently give lovely discounts on original art, downloadable and printable artwork that I make, and special offers that are only extended to those who receive my notes.

 

Don't worry, your inbox will not be crowded with email.... who likes that?   I'm busy painting rather than writing email after email!  But, this IS the best way to connect, have dialog, and stay in touch.  (I use a secure provider, so your information is never shared.)

 

You know, social media changes the algorithms and rules of engagement constantly, which makes it very unreliable for actually getting the latest so you don't miss out.   That's why being an Artful Friend is great!   It's FREE, of course, and I always try to make my notes worth opening!   When you click this link, you'll be able to subscribe.  You'll get a welcome email and then look for my note to come to at the first of every month!    Yay!  Let's be Artful Friends!! 

Great Memberships have great value - and are FREE!!

 Become a member of my Circle of Artful Friends! 

 

It's FREE to join!  Once each month, you'll get a colorful, artsy note right in your inbox.  Always included is something special and exclusive just for you!

*Drawings for original art give-aways
*Artful printable downloads

*Inside peeks at the artistic process and artist’s thinking

*Exclusive discounts on art and courses

 

It's a great way to connect and you'll have a personal look at the art process and art from my studio.  It's FREE and a fun way to get to know each other and stay in touch!  Let's be artful friends!

How to Commission a Personal Work of Art!

A commissioned painting is personal and special because it has been created just for  you according to your needs and wishes.  It doesn't have to feel out of reach! 

 

I love to create landscape, floral or still life paintings or drawings with themes from nature. I primarily work in oil paint, but I also create graphite drawings. 

 

To understand more about your commission ideas, I've created a form at this link to ask a few questions about what you envision for a commissioned piece.  Of course, there is no obligation to proceed beyond these general questions. But, I’ll be able to give a more informed email response when I know more about your wishes.

Here are some commonly asked questions about commissioning a work of art:

1. How is pricing calculated?
Pricing is figured according to the size of the project. Shipping is added and will be quoted for the location. For IL residents, IL sales tax will be added.

2. How long does it take to do a commissioned painting?
That depends on the size of the painting, as well as some of the details to be included in the painting. More specific information as discussion proceeds and more information is given. For oil paintings, drying time will also be estimated.

3. How will I know if I’m going to be happy with the artwork before it’s shipped?
As the artwork is progressing, I will be in contact. I’ll send a photo(s) when it is nearing completion for your input. And when it is completed, I will send final photos for approval. After approval and when dry, it will  be ready for shipment. I use USPS insured mail. It’s my goal to be sure that you love the final painting. I make every effort to stay in communication with you as it progresses.

4. Do you do portraits?
I do not do portraiture. Though I can include a figure in a composition, but this would usually be a generalized form which is not central to the idea of the artwork, such as a distant figure or a figure facing away.

5. Do you require a deposit to begin?
Yes. When we have decided to proceed with the commission (this occurs after we’ve had several discussions to be sure we have a complete understanding of what is desired), I will send a memo of understanding that outlines the details and time frame. Then a 50% deposit is required to begin. This is a non-refundable deposit. The final payment is made in order to ship the artwork.

When you decide to proceed with a commission, a memo of understanding will be sent with all the details that are agreed upon. 

Getting more specific information is easy!  Fill out the form at the above link, and I'll be in touch!

This little FREE oil painting has been delivered!

 

In July, this little oil painting was given away! 
One of my news note friends won it!
(She asked me to also frame it and I was able to do so very reasonably)

What a great way to display the gift she won!

Did you know that when you join my exclusive (FREE) email list, you have all kinds of benefits!  My colorful, newsy note comes right into your inbox once each month!  

[You won't be overwhelmed by email after email! Because that's annoying...also because as a studio artist, I don't have time to write a lot of emails! ]

Every month, I do something special just for you! Things like:

• A contest to win a free original painting  (I've sent little paintings from coast to coast and also overseas!)
• Downloadable and printable art that you can frame and hang 
• A special - just for friends - discount
• A first-look preview and first chance to purchase 
• And friendly news, all of which is a great way to stay in touch!
  

 If you love art - if you love a creative life - then I hope you'll join me!  There's nothing to lose and fun to be had!  It's super easy to sign up - and you'll get a welcome email right away :)  Then, look for my newsnote on the first Tuesday of the month in your inbox!  

Join in Here! 

 

Daisies and Lavender

 

Daisies and Lavender
3x3" oil on canvas board 
©2024 Helen Read 

This little original mini-painting is my give-away gift to one of my email friends this month!  Tis the season of flowers in bloom in my garden - and some of my favorites are daisies and lavender!  

Every few months I give away a small original painting!  All you need to do in order to enter to win is receive my once-a-month email which has the easy directions!  http://tinyurl.com/ArtLoverNews. 
I've given tiny paintings away from coast to coast - and even overseas!  You could be next - but you'll need to receive my email, which comes out the first Tuesday of the month.  

Don't delay - get signed up and watch for a welcome email right away, and then my news note on Tuesday! 

Deep Calls to Deep ~ a new abstract painting

 

Deep Calls to Deep
18x24" acrylic on canvas
©2024 Helen Read 

Abstract painting is challenging!  I've heard it said something to the effect that "my 3 year old could do that!"  Well, maybe.... but abstract painting takes a careful consideration of the elements and principles of design into the planning and execution of a work of art - whether representational or abstract. 

That makes it challenging... because there are a number of things to consider.  Harmony of color.  The use of values.  Shapes and lines that work together in a coordinated way. The placement of various lines, shapes, and values to keep the eye interested and moving through the picture.... to name a few.  

This painting came together, as the video shows, stroke by stroke.  I don't often work in acrylic and found that I learned a lot as I went.  This painting speaks to me of things that are not representational in nature.  It references Psalm 42, which speaks of depth of feeling and emotion, particularly in the waiting & expectation of the presence and goodness of God.  

It is currently part of a local exhibit, and has been awarded a Special Merit award. You can see more about this painting:  https://www.helencread.com/workszoom/5691274/deep-calls-to-deep#/   

If you love landscapes and works of art with themes from nature, please visit me there! 

A Giclee Print Sale!

 Giclee Prints are a GREAT WAY to add beautiful art to your home at a very affordable price!  They are professionally printed with archival papers and inks and sent to you matted and framed or ready to frame if you prefer to use your own frame!  

NOW through Saturday 6/15/24 -  Take 15% off all prints!  And, if you order 2 (mix and match) that are sent to the same address (framed or unframed) - I'll send you a beautiful small giclee print as a FREE GIFT!  

You can't go wrong!  But... Now is the time to make the order!  See all the prints here and the details about your FREE GIFT!  https://www.helencread.com/collections/69150 

Prints are a lovely way to add art to your home - or to give as a gift!  

 

Magenta Mum

 Magenta Mum,  7x5" oil on gesso panel
© 2024  Helen Read 

Shown framed in a contemporary black frame (solid wood)
 

I love the beautiful vibrant color of chrysanthemums!  And magenta is a color that sings!
This painting is offset with a supporting cast of less intense colors.
Visit my website to find out more about this colorful painting! 

The video below shows how this painting was made! 

 

Mountain Blooms

 Just Finished!

 

Mountain Blooms
9x12" watercolor on Yupo
©2024 Helen Read 

Once again, working on Yupo paper with its interesting characteristics.
Being a synthetic paper that does not absorb water, the paint naturally pools and dries in beautiful and unusual patterns. 
There are many surprises, and as the artist there is minimal control over how things will dry.
I'm inspired to begin a series of watercolor landscapes, which are imaginative and a little abstracted.
The series name that comes to mind is Magical Vistas

Watch for more to come!

This one will be matted and framed for a 16x20" frame. 

Working on Yupo paper! Watercolor landscape.

 

Watercolor on Yupo paper is so interesting!
Yupo is a synthetic paper and does not absorb water.  Therefore, the colors pool and dry in unusual patterns.  In places they may run together a bit - wet into wet. 
The outcome is definitely watery, and a little mysterious. 

There are really no end to the possibilities!  

A smaller rendition!

 SOLD 

Toward the Horizon
7x5" oil on canvas
©2024 HelenRead 

Planning for a larger commissioned work, I painted a small version - mostly just the figure.
But it is charming in its own right!
I'm happy to say this one sold very quickly!
It was framed in a walnut floating frames - seen below!
It is now in it's new Pennsylvania home! 

Commissioned Painting Finished

 March has been a busy month of studio work!  This painting was a commission.  It measures 12x12" and is painted with oil on canvas.  

It is commissioned to be both a painting to hang and will be used as a CD cover.
It's exciting to be contacted to work on a project with someone; to move through the vision with them, to contribute additional thoughts,  and then to bring about what they had hoped for! 

Toward the Horizon

 Toward the Horizon
7x5" oil on canvas 

SOLD

This little painting was painting in preparation for a larger commission work.
It has had many comments - I think there's a contemplative charm that resonates.

So happy that this one has been sold and will be sent as a birthday gift!

Harmony in Blue

 Harmony in Blue
10x8" oil on gessoed panel
©2024 Helen Read 

Harmony!  Colors that sing a spring symphony in blues, lavenders, and deeper colors of magenta. 
Floral beauty speaks a story of beauty and grace, created not just for their function in nature,
but for our delight.

Bring the fresh beauty of spring flowers in bright, cheerful colors to your home!

 This painting is available for just a few days (until March 9th, 2024) at "new painting pricing"  ~ a special celebratory offer of $60 off it's usual pricing for this size painting.  

Visit this link for all the information, including a framing option! 

(Domestic shipping is included in the pricing, 
IL residents please add 8% sales tax)

Anticipation! February 2024 Flower Sale!

 

Beginning February 1st -
a 1 Painting a Day, 1 Day only Sale on beautiful flowers for Valentines Day!

 

30% off - Just for 1 day!

Make it a memorable Valentine's Day with flowers that never fade!  Each oil painting is an original work of art that brings the color and beauty of nature indoors, brightening your space and your state of mind!  

To receive notification in your inbox each day of the sale, it's easy to sign up!!  

http://tinyurl.com/ArtLoverNews

What a great opportunity and great value!  Don't miss the notifications!