Celebrating a Golden Milestone: My First Solo Art Exhibit

 

As I approach my 50th birthday—a milestone I lovingly refer to as my "golden age"—I reflect on the journey that has brought me here. While I may still feel like the young Rose you’ve always known, my body gently reminds me that time is moving swiftly, much like the vibrant hues of a sunset I’ve grown to cherish.

Over the years, God has blessed me with talents that have fueled my passions for writing and art. Painting has become my sanctuary, a refuge during moments of fatigue, stress, or loneliness. Even in my happiest times, it is through my creativity that I find solace and expression.

To celebrate this significant milestone, I am thrilled to announce that I will be hosting my first solo art exhibit! It’s a brave step for me, and I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of friends and fellow artists who have walked alongside me on this journey. A special thank you goes to Ms. Gem Blanco for graciously opening the doors of The Blanco Art Gallery to host this special occasion.

The Blanco Art Gallery is not just a venue but a prestigious institution known for its commitment to showcasing the rich tapestry of local and international artistry. With its historical significance in the heart of the City of Arts, Angono, Rizal, the gallery has long been a sanctuary for artists and art lovers alike. Its walls have celebrated countless exhibitions, fostering a vibrant community that inspires creativity and connection. I am honored to be part of this legacy, and I cannot think of a better place to share my work.

The exhibit will run from October 15 to November 30, but I would love for you to join me for the opening ceremony on October 20, 2024, at 3 p.m. at The Blanco Art Gallery. I will showcase a collection of both my older and newer works, offering a glimpse into the evolution of my artistic journey. While I’m still discovering my true artistic voice, I hope to share the direction it is leading me in.

Your presence would mean the world to me on this special day. Instead of gifts, I would greatly appreciate your support in other ways—perhaps by bringing extra food or helping to introduce my work to fellow art enthusiasts who might be interested in purchasing a piece.

Thank you for the love and support you’ve shown me throughout the years. I hope you’ll be part of this meaningful celebration as I take this exciting step forward in my artistic journey. I can’t wait to share this experience with you!

Oil Pastel Painting: A Beginner's Journey with Curated Video (ROAM lessons 01)

One of my greatest challenges as an aspiring artist is to find time, space, and inspiration to paint. My job takes me to many places and demands a lot of thought to address the needs of my consultancy job. However, as my first love, I find comfort in painting, and I still do my best to explore this borrowed gift. I want to grow and become a professional artist. I paint to express my thoughts and feelings. It is also my way of sharing the talent I believe God has lent me. So, instead of giving up on painting, and as I also have a passion for writing, traveling, and teaching, I decided to bring my art with me. To do that, I need my art materials to travel along with me.

My current mediums are acrylic paint and oil paint. However, bringing a canvas, brushes, and tubes of paints is not always convenient. I learned that oil pastels can be a good medium for producing vibrant paintings. I remember that my first sold painting was done in a hotel way back in 2012. It was my Moon River freehand drawing, which was seen by my fellow consultant, "Ate Kathy." When she saw my drawing, she offered to buy it. I initially offered it as a gift, but she insisted on purchasing it, telling me that it would be the first of many paintings I would sell. She was right! If I count my sold paintings, I can say I have sold more than 30 artworks already, including 10 large paintings, 17 portraits, 7 hand-painted bags, 4 commissioned works, and a few others I cannot remember. I sold Moon River for just PhP 800.00, which included the cost of framing, and the highest price I've sold a painting for is PhP 27,000.00. Though I don't have a regular income flow from art, it's a promising activity that will help me continue with it until I retire.

Title:  Heartstring, oil pastel on Canson paper (sold)

Title:  The Reader Series 2, oil pastel on canvas panel

Title:  My Moon River, oil pastel on drawing paper 

Our First Step to Unlearning and Relearning with Oil Pastels 
Regarding oil pastel painting, I admit I still don’t know much about how to use it. I need to understand and connect with this new medium. So, to make it fun for me and helpful for those who wish to learn about art, come along with me on my journey as I study Oil Pastel Painting. I will share videos and reading lessons in my blog. All I ask is that you share your output by sending it through my page's messenger and comments and share this with those who would like to learn. LET’S ROAM!!!

LESSON 1 -  A Beginner's Guide to Oil Pastels: Exploring the Basics and Techniques

Introduction to Oil Pastels

I like oil pastels because they are a unique and versatile art medium that produces rich, vibrant colors and a smooth application. Unlike soft pastels, oil pastels are made with a non-drying oil and wax binder, giving them a creamy texture ideal for blending.  It is important for beginners to understand the differences between oil pastels and soft pastels because each has its distinct properties and uses.

Essential Supplies

When starting with oil pastels, selecting the right supplies is crucial. As beginners, we can choose from various brands, considering their price and color varieties. High-quality brands may be more expensive but provide better color saturation and blend-ability.  For practice purposes, we may want to start with cheaper one before investing hard-earned money. It's essential to consider the painting surface along with the pastels themselves. Oil pastels can be used on various surfaces, including canvas, wood, glass, and paper. Experimenting with different surfaces can lead to unique textures and effects.  I started with drawing paper, then moved on using Canson paper, and now I also uses canvas.

Basic Techniques

Oil pastels are amazing for exploring different techniques. One of the coolest things you can do is blending, which can be achieved using your fingers, blending stumps, or even oil solvents. It creates smooth color transitions and adds depth to your artwork. Another technique I love is impasto, where you apply thick layers of pastel to create a textured, three-dimensional effect. Also, layering and scratching techniques can add complexity to your piece by building up colors and revealing underlying layers. You may check one of the free lessons I’ve shared using layering of oil pastels in this blog. The possibilities with oil pastels are endless and make the learning process so exciting and rewarding for beginners like me.

Advantages of Oil Pastels

Oil pastels have so many advantages that make them my absolute favorite choice for artwork. I love using them for landscape painting because they blend seamlessly and create such rich, natural tones. Unlike other mediums, oil pastels don't dry out, so I can continuously work on a piece over time without any worries. Plus, they're really easy to clean and I don't need any solvents for cleanup, which makes them so convenient, especially for beginners like me. Another thing I love is that oil pastels are forgiving, so I don't have to be overly precise. I can easily correct mistakes or even incorporate them into the artwork, which gives me the freedom to experiment and be creative without any fear.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Oil pastels offer many benefits, but they also present some challenges. One of the main drawbacks is their tendency to smudge, making it tricky to achieve fine details. To tackle this, I can use fixatives to set the pastels in place or adjust my technique to avoid accidental smudging. Another challenge is the difficulty in layering, as the creamy texture can make it hard to apply new layers over existing ones. However, with a light touch and by experimenting with different surfaces, I can build up layers and create depth in my work.

I find oil pastels to be a fun and rewarding medium that provides a wide range of possibilities for both beginners and experienced artists. They are relatively affordable, making art more accessible, and do not require extensive know-how to get started. Although there may be some challenges, such as smudging and layering, I believe that practice and experimentation can help me overcome them. Overall, oil pastels offer a great way for me to explore color, texture, and creativity in my art. Their affordability and ease of use give me the confidence to dive in and start creating.

Here's the video I watched tonight. I'm sharing it because it's not too long, and you'll better understand this medium's characteristics and features. I've also included other reading sources below.

References:

1. Pencils Pens & Pastels for Drawing | George Weil Art Supplies. https://www.georgeweil.com/pastels-pencils-pens-ink/

2. 5 Best Cheap Oil Pastels: Affordable Art Supplies Guide. https://www.art592.com/cheap-oil-pastels/

3. Adobe Fresco Vs Photoshop: Which One Suits Your Design Needs? - ITU Online. https://www.ituonline.com/blogs/adobe-fresco-vs-photoshop/

4. Analysis of an artwork: Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. https://www.myfirstcanvas.com/post/analysis-of-an-artwork-mona-lisa-by-leonardo-da-vinci

5. How to use Oil Pastels for Beginners | Find Your Art Medium Ep. 8, by Francis Art Studio. https://youtu.be/2seqHHGb7aw?si=JlENUTo4bT-Xk7Qs

Exploring the World of Pastel Art: ARTipolo Group's Inspiring Workshop with Julius Legaspi

 

On August 4, 2024, the ARTipolo Group, Inc. hosted a captivating pastel painting workshop led by the esteemed artist Julius Legaspi at Balay Pinsel, Unica Hija Subdivision, Antipolo City. This event, part of ARTipolo’s regular Art Aralan series, aimed to enhance the artistic skills of its members by diving deep into the world of pastel art.

A Glimpse into the Event

ARTipolo Group, registered with the SEC since February 2014, has consistently provided a platform for both professional and emerging artists to collaborate, learn, and grow. The group's exhibits are not only a showcase of talent but also a stage where seasoned artists share the spotlight with budding talents, fostering a culture of mentorship and growth within the Filipino art community.

During this particular session, attendees were treated to a free lecture by Julius Legaspi, founder of the Philippine Pastel Art, Inc., and a well-respected figure in the local art scene. Mr. Legaspi, known for his expertise in pastel painting and his impressive body of work, generously shared his knowledge, guiding participants through the nuances of this unique medium.

Pastel Painting: A Brief Introduction

For those unfamiliar with pastel painting, it's an art form that uses sticks of pure powdered pigment bound together with a minimal amount of binder. The resulting vibrant colors and soft texture allow artists to create stunning, lifelike images with a rich depth of color.

One key technique in pastel painting is layering. Artists start with broad, light layers of color, gradually building up to the more intricate details. This method not only adds dimension to the artwork but also allows for the blending of colors to achieve the desired tone and mood.

Pastel artists often use a variety of strokes, from broad, sweeping motions to tight, controlled lines, depending on the effect they wish to create. Additionally, the choice of paper plays a crucial role in the final outcome. During the workshop, participants received high-quality pastel paper from Canson, which provided the perfect surface for exploring these techniques.

ARTipolo's Art Aralan: A Tradition of Excellence

The Art Aralan series is one of ARTipolo Group's flagship programs, designed to continually elevate the artistic capabilities of its members. Through these regular sessions, members gain access to expert-led workshops, fostering both personal and collective growth in their artistic journeys.

The August 4th session was particularly memorable, not only for the invaluable lessons shared by Mr. Legaspi but also for the camaraderie among participants. The event featured a raffle draw, with three lucky members winning a five-day art workshop with Mr. Legaspi at his renowned Atelier De Legaspi in Xavierville, Katipunan, Quezon City.

About Julius Legaspi

Julius Legaspi, a full-time artist hailing from Marilao, Central Luzon, has earned his place as one of the country's leading pastel artists. His works have been celebrated in numerous exhibitions and have even gone under the hammer at prestigious auctions, with pieces like "Pier" garnering significant attention. His deep understanding of the pastel medium and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists make him an invaluable mentor to many.

Lasting Impression

ARTipolo’s Art Aralan with Julius Legaspi was more than just a workshop; it was an inspiring journey into the heart of pastel painting, igniting creativity and passion in all who attended. As ARTipolo Group continues its mission of fostering artistic talent, events like these not only strengthen the skills of its members but also contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Filipino art.

Stay tuned for more updates and future workshops as ARTipolo Group, Inc. continues to make strides in the art community, offering opportunities for artists to learn, grow, and shine

Title: Embracing Art and Community: A Day at CMPC

Date: April 13, 2024

Location: CMPC Office, Cadlan, Pili

As the sun rose on a crisp Saturday morning, I found myself immersed in the heart of community spirit at CMPC. My day began with a gracious stay at the Sakura Hanna Inn, a serene prelude to the enriching experiences awaiting me at the Camsur Multipurpose Cooperative (CMPC).

7:30 a.m. marked the start of a day filled with promise and collaboration. Over a complimentary breakfast at CMPC's diner, I reflected on the privilege of working alongside such a dynamic cooperative. The warm hospitality and sense of belonging set the tone for what would unfold next.

Upon my arrival at the CMPC office, I encountered Ms. Annielyn, who was engaged in an early morning meeting with her team. Despite the hour, their dedication to their work was palpable. Energized by the bustling atmosphere, I ventured into the trading area, marveling at the array of products proudly showcasing the craftsmanship of local producers. It was a delight to support their endeavors by selecting a few unique items as "pasalubong" gifts.

As fate would have it, my path crossed with Ms. Annie once more. Over breakfast, an idea sparked between us: transforming the diner into a small gallery, showcasing artworks alongside culinary delights. Our conversation evolved into plans for a summer art workshop for children, with proceeds benefiting a scholarship fund. Seizing the opportunity to contribute, I volunteered to lead sessions on acrylic painting, eager to share my passion with the next generation of artists.

The momentum continued as Ms. Annie introduced me to her officers, enthusiastically sharing our vision for the art project. Their enthusiasm was contagious, fueling my determination to see our plans come to fruition. With excitement in the air, attention turned to practical matters—securing affordable flights and finalizing dates for the workshop.

As I bid farewell to the office, my heart brimmed with anticipation for the journey ahead. From engaging with local producers to igniting creativity in young minds, my day at CMPC was a testament to the power of community and the transformative potential of art. Stay tuned for updates on this inspiring endeavor as we bring our vision to life.

The Diner

The author with the CMPC Officers

Join us on this journey of art and community at Cascade Art Studio.

"Discovering Triumph in 'My Cityscape Sunsets' by Rose Gob: A Journey of Resilience"

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Introduction:

As the day comes to an end and the sky transforms into a breathtaking display of colors, there's a feeling of victory in watching a sunset. In this blog post, we will explore the beauty and symbolism captured in "My Cityscape Sunsets," a series of paintings by the talented artist Rose Gob. These artworks go beyond simply depicting nature; they embody the triumph over life's challenges and the quest for success amid adversity.

The Inspiration Behind the Art:

Rose Gob drew inspiration from the captivating views from her balcony to create "My Cityscape Sunsets," which encapsulates the dynamic beauty of nature's daily spectacle. Each painting reflects the artist's personal experiences and reflections, capturing the ever-changing colors and forms of sunsets influenced by clouds, sun, and climate. From vibrant oranges to soft pastels, every canvas tells a unique story of resilience and triumph.

Symbolism of Success and Triumph:

At the heart of "My Cityscape Sunsets" lies a profound symbolism of overcoming adversity. For Rose Gob, sunsets symbolize the end of life's battles and the beginning of a well-deserved rest. Through her art, she celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, reminding viewers that success is attainable even in the face of challenges. These paintings serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to persevere and find solace in moments of peace.

Exploring the Series:

The series comprises three distinct paintings, each offering a unique perspective on the theme of triumph. Series 1 and 2, size 24" X 18", draw inspiration from the artist's balcony view, capturing the ever-changing beauty of nature's canvas. Series 3, size 18" X 24", transports viewers to a bustling boulevard where skyscrapers stand tall against the backdrop of the setting sun. Each painting invites viewers to reflect on their own journey towards success, with all pieces crafted meticulously in acrylic on canvas in 2024.

Final Sentiments:

In a world filled with challenges, Rose Gob's "My Cityscape Sunsets" offers a ray of hope and inspiration. These artworks, available for purchase, serve as a reminder of the resilience and triumph that lie within each of us. As the sun dips below the horizon, let us embrace the spirit of resilience embodied in each brushstroke, knowing that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of light waiting to guide us home.