I love the whole process of creating a work of art, but I also love the other processes involved with painting.  I love framing and hanging the piece because it really gives me a sense of accomplishment when I sketch my ideas out and then they become a reality.  I've made my own frames in the past, which is also something I enjoy doing.  This painting wasn't made as a commission, but it was a painting that I'd been wanting to do for a long time.  I painted it over the course of two mornings and let it dry before I varnished it with Gamvar and framed it.  
 Today, I sketched out where I wanted to hang it and measured out the space.  I love working with my hands and using tools so it's all part of the fun.  I guess there's an aspect of interior design also.  Now, the painting is hanging across the room, on the same side from where the original clock hangs.  I love the way it looks and I'm going to enjoy looking at it for a long time.   

  Merry Christmas!  My brother just sat for a charcoal portrait today so I framed it and gave it to him as a gift.  Enjoy your holidays everyone!

  I had a great time at the Ridgewood Art Institute yesterday for the reception of the 2017 Instructors' Show!  I took photos of my pieces to share, but check out the exhibition if you're in northern NJ.
​  My class at the Ridgewood Art Institute meets every Wednesday from 3:30PM to 5:30PM.  It's an oil painting class for young people (ages 8-17) and focuses on figure painting, portraits, pet portraits and animals. Anyone interested in attending can stop by the class or contact me at easantoli@gmail.com  More information about the class can be found HERE!

  I'm officially ready for the upcoming Instructors' Exhibition at the Ridgewood Art Institute!  I've put a lot of effort into these works and I can't wait to show everyone what I've done on all summer.  I've got 4 oil paintings which includes a self portrait, a pet portrait, a portrait of my girlfriend and a figurative painting of a young girl picking flowers.  I also included a drawing of a pet portrait.
  My self portrait and the portrait of my girlfriend are not for sale, but the other 3 works are for sale.  I'm also open again for commissions for anyone interested contact: easantoli@gmail.com!