moving along...

Baroque

Acrylic on 30"H x 40"W x 1.5" wrap canvas

Ready to hang

New in house large abstract.

An elaborate piece with many layers of paint creating a richly textured surface.  This one will definitely keep your eye moving!  So much to see.....

.....and more: HERE

mostly, some, a bit.....

Momenta

Acrylic on 24" x 30" x 3/4" wrap canvas

SOLD

By clicking on this instagram link you will be able to see the beginnings of this painting.  Changed a lot! ....and that's ok, just gotta start somewhere and this will lead to more ideas.  I was getting a feel for my colors as the first layers were applied.  Next, I decided to use modeling paste and my texture palette knifes and play with some different surface tensions.  Usually if I apply modeling paste it will be the first layer.  but hey, change it up a bit! right.  Once all this was dry I went in using the flat side of my brushes to the canvas and work with applying layer upon layer of color.  Staying for the most part with the original choices.  Lastly, working with the mostly, some and a bit formula and choosing to work with a hot spot, I lightly feathered in the pinks.

Wondering what the mostly, some and a bit is?  
I love this formula because it is so simple and can be applied to any of the elements of art and it's effective in creating an interesting and strong composition. Color, Value, Texture, Space, Line and Shapes.  Let's take and use color as an example.  It might go something like this, mostly blue, some orange and a bit of red.  Value: mostly black, some white and a bit of gray. Ok..you try a few.

So what about a hot spot?
This is the area in the painting that the eye is drawn to. The focal point, main character, hot spot are just a few of the names I've heard used. Another really simple formula that has stuck with me, is to divide the canvas equally into thirds horizontally and then vertically.  The four areas where these line intersect are places for strong focal points.  You can use just one all four, but would suggest that one stands out the most.  Notice this is where I used the bit of pink in this painting.

With that all said....rules in art are made to be broken!  Great paintings have been and can be created without these.  I don't like to get hung up with the rules while painting, but I will fall back on them when I am needing to resolve a painting. Next time you see a painting that you really like, see if and how either or these formula can be applied.


For any further information regarding my abstracts painting contact me:
elizabethchapman@artlover.com

Elizabeth Chapman
Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Expressionistic Abstract Painting, Large 36" x 36" Blue Abstract, "Zephyr" by Elizabeth Chapman

Zephyr

Acrylic on 36" x 36" x 1.5" acrylic on wrap canvas

To purchase contact me: elizabethchapman@artlover.com

SOLD

The Blues.... and listening to Chopin while painting resulted in this painting.  Just love it when the music almost seems to be directing the painting.  The chosen color palette to work with on this particular day was blue and white.   When the spirit moves....paint!

To see more of my abstract paintings please view my website: HERE

Elizabeth Chapman

Contemporary Abstract Artist

Festive Love, Contemporary "Heart" Abstract Painting, Modern Expressions, Elizabeth Chapman

"Festive Love"

Acrylic on 8" x 8" paper
ORIGINAL sold unframed, $50.00

SOLD

Prints from Fine Art America

I realize these abstract heart paintings will be come more popular as Valentine's Day approaches, but this one does remind me of the joy and festivity of the approaching holidays.  We have so much to celebrate and be thankful for.  This week we are celebrating the birthdays of our grand daughter "Penelope" and that of our daughter "Elsie Larson".  Enjoy!!

www.melizabethchapman.artspan.com

Promenade, Contemporary Abstract Painting, Elizabeth Chapman

'Promenade'

Acrylic on 12" x 12" canvas panel

Original Available, here

I'm sorry I haven't written much lately... a new goal of mine is to work on my blog and write more.  So here it is.... first of all I hope you enjoy the painting!!

I've been reading a book lately in preparation for an art teaching position that I have accepted for next fall.  I will be working at a homeschool co-op on Monday afternoons.  This will be my first classroom situation since having resigned as a public school teacher three years ago.  Actually, never thought I would be interested again in this sort of a position but in all honestly I was attracted to the thought of not grading and working with students that have been taught respect.  I do feel like this is the right move for me and I am excited about it.  

So, I picked up this book that caught my interest and it has been feeding right into thoughts and questions that I have had over the years.  One big question that I've always had as a teacher is the creative process itself and how to or if it could really be taught.  This book has been confirming an idea that I've had all long and that is....should art work be graded or assesed.  The grading or assessing of art puts the emphasize on the end product rather than on the process which is the most important element to creating.  In other words, it damages creativity which is an intelligent form of thinking that applies to not only the visual arts but across the board to many other areas of education as well.  I am now learning that I need to unteach techniques and rely more on allowing their natural intuitions to flow.  (duh, this is what I use when painting!)  Techniques such as perspective, texture, etc... will naturally be learned if children are allowed to experiment and invent on their own. This has opened up much thinking for me on this topic not only as a teacher, but as an artist as well.  I am looking forward to nurturing the creative process without grades.  If your interested in this topic you might like this book. I believe it is a good read for art teachers, artists and parents.  Check it out...."Kids Play" Igniting Children's Creativity by Michele Cassou. 

....."the creative process couldn't be taught as a technique because it is a living process." Kids Play

www.melizabethchapman.artspan.com

Cupcake....Modern Expressionistic Abstract Painting by Elizabeth Chapman

Cupcake

Acrylic on 5" x 7" canvas panel, $20.00


Sold

To purchase this ORIGINAL painting click here.

Sugar Kisses.... Abstract Expressionistic Painting by Elizabeth Chapman

Sugar Kisses

Acrylic on gallery wrap canvas
30" x 40" (1.5")


SOLD

Available for purchase from my web gallery by clicking here or contact: Elizabeth


A very girlie painting!!  Christmas colors and feelings was the intention for this painting, but instead the influence of having baby Penelope Bloom presently living with us is what emerged.  An abstract painting with a feminine flair that everyone will appreciate.

From our house to yours.... Sugar Kisses!
Merry Christmas and  Happy New Year!!

The Mission..... Abstract Expressionism Painting by Elizabeth Chapman

Acrylic on 24" x 48" gallery wrap canvas (1.5" depth) 


SOLD

This is that time of year when we are all sooooo busy...... with all the preparations, shopping, gift exchanges,parties, baking, decorating...and .... well you know how it is.  I did stay up one night to paint a large painting that I will be sharing soon, (haven't photographed it yet) and can't hardly wait to post it!! This is one that I did last summer, an oldie, but..... it's been on my mind lately and thought it would be appropriate to share my thoughts as I had finished and stood back to view this painting while it was still on the easel. Given the time of year that we are in, it serves as areminder of the reason for the season.

The painting was completed in two sessions with the first being an underpainting.   Other than the color scheme, I approached this painting with absolutely NO IDEA of its outcome.  As I was listening to music my hand literally danced across the canvas, as  I followed each new idea that popped into my head.  To me this is such a gift... to be able to be a part of the creative process.

I stood back from the easel... and  I immediately saw a manger scene in a city scape.  I have pondered much about this painting since then, but my first thought was how this babe "Jesus" came and was born in a homeless shelter to live a life even to death in the lowliest of conditions.  Why would the  the God of the universe with all His riches choose to live this way?  Perhaps one of those reasons was to leave us with an example to follow....

You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.  Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to.  Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross.  Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.  Philippians 2: 5-11

 This painting has been a favorite and I always love hearing how a work of art speaks personally to an individual.  For me, especially through all the business lately, it  has helped to focus my thoughts on the real reason for the season and the celebration of Christmas...love... may it help you as well!!!

"Gestural Three" Abstract Expressionistic Painting by Elizabeth Chapman

Gestural Three

Abstract Expressionistic Painting

Watercolor/Gouache on 5" x 7" paper

These little paintings are very child like and so much fun!!  It can be more difficult than it appears in that you must allow yourself to go with the creative flow and ignore the critique within one.  Simply stated that means that when your painting and that next thought or idea pops into your head you go with it rather than stop to think it out.  Very intuitive.  

Big day, our daughter Emma is flying in from L.A. We will be picking her up at the airport today and taking her to her favorite place to eat.  She has been living in L.A for three years now and from time to time we have the opportunity to spend some time together.  Cherished time.  There's also birthday shopping to go do this morning and we're taking care of Elsie's pug, Suki for a few days.  She is sooooo cute and her and Gigi have a great time together.

"Skedaddle" Abstract Expressionistic Painting

Skedaddle

SOLD

Abstract Expressionism

Acrylic on 12" x 12" canvas panel

I haven't posted much this week because I just haven't been painting much.  ....today I got my new liquid paints out and did a little splish splashing. A fun afternoon!!  If you would like to purchase this painting shoot me an offer (don't forget about shipping) and it will be yours!

To see more of my work visit my Web Gallery

Daily Abstract Painter Elizabeth Chapman


To purchase contact: Elizabeth

"Splash" Contemporary Expressionistic Abstract Painting by Elizabeth Chapman

"Splash"

Contemporary Palette Knife Painting

Acrylic on 8" x 10" 140lb. paper

I have started a new blog that can be linked on from clicking here as place to post and sell smaller abstract  paintings.  Some of these paintings are on canvases and are ready to hang. (sides painted) Many of them are on 140lb. or 300lb. paper and sealed with a protective sealant.  They can be framed with or without matting or glass in a ready made or custom made frame.  If I have not posted one that you have seen in the past and would like to purchase it please email me and if you would like you can even make me an offer.  I will be adding to this post on a weekly basis so don't forget to check it out.

Daily Abstract Painter Elizabeth Chapman

To purchase Original Abstract Art:

elizabeth-chapman.blogspot.com

...a special night

Aurora Lights

Abstract Expressionism Painting

Acrylic on 8" x 10" canvas

To purchase contact: Elizabeth

Had a lot of fun with this small painting. It reminds me of the northern lights and hence the name. Seldom do we see them here in Missouri....but every few years on a special night. To see more of my work please visit my Web Gallery.

Daily Abstract Painter Elizabeth Chapman

by the sea...

Beach Bum

Abstract Expressionism Painting

Acrylic on 8" x 10" canvas

Having grown up where going to the beach was a part of life... this must be a longing for some beach life! Anyway... that's what I see....

To purchase contact: elizabeth

To see more of my work please visit my Web Gallery and to see more daily abstract paintings visit the Daily Painters Abstract Blog.

life is good....

Garden Life

Just sold!!!

Abstract Expressionistic Painting

Acrylic 24" x 30" on gallery canvas

Today, I went to pick up art work from Hawthorns Galleries here in Springfield, Mo., as they are preparing for their next featured artist. VERY..VERY ...very thankful for the work that has sold. I am also excited that they are going to continue to carry my work. If you happen to be in Springfield, Mo. you might just want to pop in and see what they have. I will also be carrying a few original works on my daughter Elsie's online store Red Velvet Art .

This painting that I have posted today was one that I brought home today. I painted this last winter during a time that I guess you could say I was making a transition between the realistic and abstract. It began with a photo I had taken at a lawn and garden show. Having worked for many months realistically with transparent watercolors my intent was to paint this realistically with acrylics on canvas. Well, inspiration took over and before I knew it there was this painting that to me represented more of the feeling of the life of these flowers than the actual physical appearance.

Garden Life...... life is good!

Daily Abstract Painter Elizabeth Chapman

My Gallery Website

Daily Abstract Painters Blog

different strokes from different folks challenge....

Sittin' Blues

Expressionistic Abstract

Acrylic on 12" x 16" canvas/unframed

This painting is the result of another blog that I have gotten involved with, in which a challenge is presented about every 2-3 weeks. The same photograph to work from is given to everyone. I decided that this time I would just go with more of an abstract expressionistic style rather than a realistic representation of the photo. I chose to work with the blues and a more gestural approach to perhaps capture more of the inner side of this man. To view this blog started by Karin Jurick called different strokes from different folks, click here.

Daily Abstract Painter Elizabeth Chapman

My Web Gallery

Daily Abstract Painters Blog

finale....

  

 

"Nine"

Contemporary Acrylic Abstract

36" x 48"

Good Morning!  This one will certainly wake you up with lots and lots of bright colors!  This morning I'm going to be packing up the car with the rest of the work for the June show at Hawthorns Gallery.  yay  If you live in the Springfield area, I would love to see you!  The opening night will be with the First Friday Art Walk, Friday June 5th- 6-9p.m.  Otherwise the work will be on display throughout the month of June.  Oh, and as a side note- my husband Don and Jeremy Larson will be providing the music for the opening. Thank you guys!  This is my first solo show so  I'm very excited and a bit nervous about my work being up for others to see.  I'm positive in my thinking, but can't help but have those doubts creeping in. 

I hope that you enjoy this piece- It's one of my favorites so far- I love the color!  It was inspired from a comment by Kendra- in which she had suggested using colors and combinations of red, yellow and green.  I took it as a challenge and began with only these three colors on a black background.  This is  a very large work- 3ft x 4ft.  It began with a curvilinear line and then I began working the shapes and balancing color around it. As it progressed I began seeing the large circle shape as a watchful eye over a city.  Also, not only was there a nine but I can also see a ninety one.  (shapes running through the center of the nine)  One of my favorite things about the pure abstracts is that others see there own stories, so I hope that mine hasn't ruined yours.

Thanks for the comments! as you can see I am reading and taking them to heart.  They really do encourage and inspire me.  I'm taking a few days and then plan on beginning work on a new series of work.  I love creating and painting!!

Today we will be seeing Emma off, back to L.A- sooooooo sad.  I always loooooove it when she's coming in, (just knowing that she's around) but then the leaving again is hard.  I know that she misses us terribly, but also that she is very happy there pursuing her dream.  And so, knowing that she is happy is a comfort to me.

Well, I'm off to get ready. Enjoy today's colors!

Elizabeth

Psalm 91  Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty...........

Just finished....

"Cycles"

Watercolor/Acrylic on Watercolor Canvas

18" x 24"

.....painting the sides on this abstract painting.  A little bit different this time in that I worked with transparent watercolors on a watercolor canvas.   Most often when I paint with watercolors it is realistically, but this time I decided I would try working abstractly with the watercolors on canvas.  That was the only pre-conceived idea that I had!!  The painting has been sealed with a protective varnish, so there won't be a need to matt and frame this watercolor.  Ready to hang!

Spent the day wiring the backs and painting the sides of acrylic paintings.  Beginning to get things ready for the June art show.  I know it's a ways away, but I'm not a very good procrastinator. Besides it just seemed like a good rainy day project.