I did another flower painting today outside just as the sun was coming out.  I'm really excited about these new paintings and I can't wait to do a bunch more!
 This painting and one from yesterday have an elongated format because I found some left over Fredrix oil ground canvas in my basement and it was a long shape so I stretched two canvases in that format.  I have to say that Fredrix oil ground canvas is my favorite.  I've used other pre-made oil ground linen before, but what I really like about Fredrix is that it has very nice texture (not too smooth) and it has a light gray tone to it.  I just ordered a new roll of Fredrix Kent 125 DP (double-primed) from Dick Blick and I'm planning on stretching some larger canvases once it comes this week!
  I also want to say that I encourage everyone to test out a bunch of different materials including canvas, brushes, mediums, paint, etc.  I've tried many different supplies and these are my own suggestions, which I share with everyone as a suggestion.  Go out and paint this week!

  I set up my easel outside yesterday and did a painting of the flower pots outside my house.  I was so hungry to paint after returning from Spain so it was really satisfying to do some painting outside in the sunlight.
 I'm planning to do more of these and I'll put them up for sale in my SHOP in case anyone wants to own one!  This painting is currently for sale in that shop!

"When an artist begins to count strokes instead of regarding nature he is lost. This preoccupation with technique, at the expense of truth and sincerity, is the principal fault I find in much of the work of modern painters." - Sorolla

  I just came back from Spain yesterday and I'm excited to share some photos that I took from the trip and talk about my experience.  But first, I need to thank Cristina and Alex for having my girlfriend and I stay with you; I will never forget your hospitality and kindness.
  I was in Spain for 7 days and I packed as much into them as I could.  I visited several places, including the city of Toledo and Valle De Los Caidos (the Valley of the Fallen), but we spent a majority of time in Madrid, which is where the Prado, Thyssen and Sorolla Museums are.
 I wasn't allowed to take photos inside the Prado, but I can tell you that it was an amazing place filled with beautiful art.  For me, the main draw of the Prado is the large collection of Velazquez paintings, including his large masterpiece Las Meninas.  I'm a big fan of Velazquez because he's basically the godfather of all the other painters I love, including Sargent and Sorolla.
​  I took a ton of photos from my trip, but I want to share some photos from the Sorolla Museum for everyone to enjoy because it's the most wonderful place I've ever been in my whole life.

  I wanted to write a post because I won't be in contact for a week for commissions via my website or Instagram.  I'm going to be in Madrid, Spain with my girlfriend from Wednesday July 4th until the following Wednesday, July 11th.  I'm still accepting new commissions, but this week will be a break for me so I'll respond to any inquiries when I get back.  I'm super excited to travel abroad and get to see some great museums like the Prado and the Sorolla house.
  Last year I was visiting one of my best friends in Chicago around this same time so I'm happy to be traveling again.  I'll be bringing my sketchbook and can't wait to share some photos from my trip once I'm back!