The SusanArt Newsletter

February 2012 (Newsflash)

admin — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 05:02:46 +0000

Newsflash: February 2012
Hello Everyone!

I have some really exciting news that I know many of you have been waiting for.

There has been quite a buzz awaiting the announcement of our next tour. Here it is:

Portrait of Europe – An Artist’s Mediterranean Odyssey tour is now officially launched!
* Prices in brochure are listed in New Zealand Dollars >>>

This is a life-style tour focusing on sightseeing our favorite European destinations. Richard and I have tailor-made this tour with personally chosen destinations and excursions – we feel they are the best that Europe has to offer. It is also a tour where those who wish to try their hand at painting may like to sit in the ancient village streets or amongst the Swiss meadow wildflowers – surrounded by the Swiss Alps with Susan there to help guide you to capture painted cameos of your journey – or maybe a painted journal along the way.

This is a unique tour not only for the stunning destinations, excursions and painting for those interested – but also for the fun you can have extending your photography skills as well as your wine knowledge with Richard’s expertise and skill at your finger tips. Richard will guide you on how to take spectacular photographs of the breath-taking places you will visit on our Portrait of Europe – An Artist’s Mediterranean Odyssey tour .

We have put together a tour full of everything we love the most. It will be so much fun to share these magical experiences and to watch the awe inspired by each incredible day in our leisurely-paced tour.

We are able to create unique personalized tours of a small number of guests offering hand-picked adventures and experiences which will introduce you to the real flavor of the areas we will stay. There will also be the opportunity to try your hand at Italian cooking under the watchful eye and guidance of star chef Luigi Gandola while we are in stunningly beautiful Bellagio, Lake Como, Italy.

Imagine floating down the Grand Canal in Venice sitting in our own private water taxi. We venture out across the lagoon where an evening full of fun awaits you. All this just as the sun is setting on yet another magical day of our fun-filled tour..

The list of surprises and special treats in store will make this tailor-made tour unique and a tour you will remember forever.

A tour of a lifetime from the Chateaux of the Loire, to Beaune France, Lauterbrunnen Switzerland, Bellagio Lake Como, Venice Italy, Nice France, Monaco, then on to the five star luxury cruise liner Azamara Journey which will glide you to some of the most spectacular destinations on the French and Italian Rivieras: Ports included are St Tropez, Portofino, (Portovenere) Cinque Terre, (Livorno) Florence, Sorrento, Amalfi, Taormina Sicily, Capri and we finish in ancient Rome for two days immersing yourself in this incredible city. Richard and I have been given the opportunity to put together an itinerary and excursions that encompass our favorite places along with the most exciting of all the excursions and adventures we have had in our many years of travel.

Limited to just 18 guests our tour ensures personal attention from two experienced tour leaders who love to share our favorite European haunts.

United Travel is one of New Zealand’s leading travel companies. Kay Rogers is the managing director of four offices and it is our pleasure to work alongside her and her European specialists “on the ground” to ensure this tour is seamless and everything we want it to be.

We hope you can join us! We would love to welcome you aboard.
- Richard and Susan

Click here to read the official brochure:
Portrait of Europe – An Artist’s Mediterranean Odyssey Tour
Please be patient .. this is quite a big file (1.22Mb PDF) so may take a few moments to open.)

If you have any problems viewing the brochure, please contact us at info@susanart.com

January 2012 (Newsflash)

admin — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 02:30:08 +0000

Susan Harrison-Tustain ‘Southern Recollection’ exhibition
Susan Harrison-Tustain Mini-workshop discussion

‘Southern Recollection’ Exhibition:

(Click images to enlarge)

Susan Harrison-Tustain:
Susan’s (once in every four year) two day exhibitions are attended by approx 3000 visitors from throughout New Zealand as well as some visitors from Australia and North America. In a rare move, Susan has agreed to a special exhibition of her works, many of which are inspired by Otago and Southland New Zealand:

Exhibition: ‘Southern Recollection’ – a collection of 12 paintings

Where: Mountfort Gallery, Earl Street, Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand
When: February 10th: Noon – 6pm and February 11th – 29th: 11am – 6pm daily

Entry to Susan’s exhibition is complimentary
Susan will be in attendance from 1pm – 4 pm on 10th February until 13th February.

‘Painting Insights – A talk with Susan Harrison-Tustain’
Sunday 12th February from 4pm – 5.30pm.

Susan is also offering artists a rare opportunity to have a guided introspective into her painting methods and style in a ‘mini workshop’ talk.

This is an exceptional opportunity for you to meet Susan in person – and hear her discuss her work and painting methods and it is where she will also share an insight into what has lead her to an internationally acclaimed career. This will be a talk full of invaluable hints and tips. Susan wants to inspire artists – give them confidence to reach their own full potential – and she will share some of the painting breakthroughs that help her to create paintings that speak to the viewers of her work. Susan believes it is important to give back to the arts.

“Join me on Sunday 12th Feb 4pm – 5.30pm where we can chat and I can share many insights that will help you on your painting journey. I look forward to seeing you!” Susan.

Details:
Discussion: ‘Painting Insights’ - A talk with Susan Harrison-Tustain
* Where: Mountfort Gallery, 7 Earl Street, Queenstown
* When: Sunday 12th Feb 2012 4pm-5.30pm

Booking is essential for the ‘Painting Insights’ talk with Susan. We expect this to be popular so the number of places will need to be limited.
Please confirm your booking for Susan’s talk by contacting:
Richard Blakeley, Mountfort Gallery Queenstown:

Phone: +64 (0)3 4092111
or email: Mountfort Gallery: mountfortgallery@actrix.co.nz or richard@susanart.com

At Susan’s discussion there will be an opportunity to make a gold coin donation which will benefit Susan’s favourite charity: the humanitarian works of Sir Ray Avery’s Medicine Mondiale.

Susan speaks of her work:
“I love to paint subjects that may at first appear domestic every-day objects. These are the subjects that speak of who we are as New Zealanders, how we live, how we do things and what is important to us. I want my paintings to draw attention to these things, to invite the viewer to take a closer look and see a deeper meaning: perhaps a story of struggle, triumph, hope, ingenuity. This is the Kiwi way that I love. The ‘strangers’ I meet and chat with on my subject gathering adventures, often give me in insight into the lives of those generations who were here before us. I love that these stories find their way into my paintings. This is NZ history and I want to capture it before it is lost.”

‘Ophir Past and Present’ is an example of one of the Susan’s paintings that will be on display the Mountfort Gallery, Queenstown, New Zealand.

“Wanting to capture the real Ophir – I wandered along the main street just as the sun was going down leaving a bright orange fiery sky in the west and a dark indigo blue sky in the east. I happened across Old Pitchers Drapery. One window missing I was compelled to look inside. Warm darks enveloped the first room but I could make out the broken floor boards, the torn wall paper and discarded merchant paraphernalia amongst the detritus. The orange sunset danced on the wall of the room behind and captivated my imagination as if being drawn into the past.

Wow! This was a painting waiting for an artist to reveal …. Aware the light was fading, I finally broke the spell and stepped back to view the shop front. There – in the other window was the reflection of the archetypal General Store that stood across the road! I knew I had to capture this moment within my strokes of paint. The ‘moment, the feeling, the excitement’ I felt when I stood awed by what had presented itself to me. I could visit this place many times and not find that magic twilight, flicker of fiery orange and contrast of indigo blue sky.

The General Store has now been transformed into a beautiful restaurant. I wanted to capture the history of this place – Ophir Past and Present”

Exhibition: ‘Southern Recollection’
Where: Mountfort Gallery, 7 Earl Street, Queenstown
When: 10th – 29th February 2012 11am – 6pm
Exhibition entry is complimentary

There is no confirmation required should you wish to visit Susan’s exhibition.

Here are Susan’s contact details should you wish to discuss the exhibition, paintings, giclee reproductions, art instruction DVDs, her mini-workshop or One on One workshops:

Phone: +64 (0) 7 5433 933
Email: susan@susanart.com
Website: www.susanart.com

For the Mountfort Gallery website visit: http://www.mountfortgallery.com

December 2011

admin — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 01:56:30 +0000

Hi Everyone
There are lots of exciting things to share with you in this 2011 Christmas and New Year newsletter, but I would like to begin by thanking you all for your continuing support, humbling kind words and enthusiasm. Passion for art and painting is universal and something that touches and inspires us throughout our lives in countless ways. As our understanding of art and painting deepens, it becomes ever more exhilarating as it unfolds before us.

I particularly love the notion that our art collections, our own paintings and those of other artists we love, will bring joy as well as living history for generations to come. These mirror who we are and how we live, the things that are important to us as well as connecting us to the past, present and future. As we are about to begin a new year, I hope your festive celebrations – and all that 2012 will bring – will inspire your imagination and creativity.

Happy Festive Season to you all.

In this newsletter you will find the following:

Exhibition Thank you
Announcing the Susan Harrison-Tustain School of Painting
One on One Workshops in Susan’s Studio
Christmas ideas

Exhibition Thank You:

Thank you for your kind words, good wishes and, for those able to attend, thank you for visiting my Recollection exhibition in October. The exhibition was everything I wanted it to be and more. I love to create a welcoming, relaxing and beautifully elegant, as well as highly professional atmosphere. Here are some snapshots taken before and during my latest exhibition.

Exhibition Montage (Click to enlarge)

Announcing the Susan Harrison-Tustain School of Painting:

One of the great joys of being an artist is to be able to share the knowledge – the breakthroughs that have made all the difference to my paintings and my journey. I love to help my students reach their full potential and to sense their excitement when they ‘find their wings and fly’.

You will see some exciting opportunities being announced this coming year. The first of which is the ‘crème de la crème’ of workshops: the Susan Harrison-Tustain School of Painting One-on-One Workshop tailor-made to extend each individual artist. These workshops will be tutored in my home studio where I can help lift your work to the next level and beyond. I will share insights into my original paintings that you will be able to see and of course you are welcome to dive into my studio cupboard which is full of books and fascinating things.

I thought this would make an exciting Christmas gift suggestion. Anyone who purchases a workshop will receive a voucher that can be wrapped and placed under the tree. Click here for more in-depth information on this One-on-One workshop opportunity:

Christmas ideas:

A tailor-made Susan Harrison-Tustain School of Painting One-on-One workshop individually designed to your needs. Click HERE for information.

Our three top selling 2-disc DVD sets continue to be very popular. We send them all over the world. Click below for more information and a sneak video preview:
Our Watercolor DVDs

Extended Free Shipping Offer

Our free shipping offer on purchases of three DVDs bought together will be extended until after Christmas. All you need to do to receive this free shipping offer on sales of all three DVDs together is to type this code into the coupon when requested during checkout:
3FREE (This will ensure you receive free shipping anywhere in the world)

More DVD information

Limited Edition fine art giclee reproductions:

There is only one original painting of course but for those who would love to have one of my sought-after images on their walls – I have released five Fine Art Giclée reproductions.

You can view those here: Fine Art Giclées

There will be more great news directly after Christmas. But for now I would like to wish you all the very best for the Festive Season and the New Year!

Kindest regards to you all

Susan & Richard

September 2011

admin — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 01:22:58 +0000

Hi Everyone

This is going to be a diverse newsletter covering many interests: I have exciting Fine Art news to share with you all – and for artists there is the next installment of painting revelations in red.

Topics covered:

Fine Art:

‘Recollection’ Exhibition update
Tauranga Festival of Arts program – same time as my exhibition
Sir Ray Avery to officially open exhibition
New exhibition paintings unveiled and now some are shown with their frames.

Click banner above to go to exhibition page.

For Artists:

How to create a rich, vibrant, glowing red – stage 2
Free world-wide shipping on Susan’s highly regarded DVD sets!
Free world-wide shipping on Susan’s signature brush and paint sets

Recollection Exhibition

http://www.susanart.com/blog/exhibition-2011

My brushes are flying and my head is buzzing with inspiration. It’s only two months until my major exhibition but only two more weeks before my easel is retired and preparation for the exhibition takes over.

Everything is abuzz with excitement as we move closer to this major event. We generally have around 3000 visitors from throughout New Zealand, Australia and some from North America – so you can imagine that I love to make these exhibitions something of an occasion. This exhibition promises to be something you will never forget.

Official Opening Function ticket information

My rare, once in every four year exhibition is almost here! What does this mean for you? At the beginning of October all those on my mailing list will receive a message giving you the opportunity to apply for tickets to my invitation-only opening function for my 2011 Recollection Exhibition. Due to space restrictions there are only 300 tickets available for this opening function, on the evening of Friday 28^th October. The only fair way of allocating these highly sought after tickets is to send out an announcement to everyone on my list (if you receive this newsletter directly from me – then you are on my mailing list). The tickets are then allocated on a first-in-first-served basis. International guests are welcome to contact me now as I am aware flight arrangements need to be made well in advance.

‘Open for everyone to view’ days

Some may prefer to visit the exhibition on the ‘open for everyone to view’ days:

Saturday and Sunday 29^th & 30^th October.

These days are still busy but you have more time and space to ponder the works at a leisurely pace and take in the atmosphere for as long as you wish. Many guests of the opening function like to come back again and again. You are all welcome to revisit over the weekend. My exhibitions are often the last chance to view the work in public before each painting goes on its own journey.

Sir Ray Avery

This exhibition is the culmination of four years work and a lifetime of inspiration. I am honoured to have Sir Ray Avery to officially open my ‘Recollection’ Exhibition. Sir Ray was New Zealander of the Year 2010, Knighted in the last honours list and has recently been voted New Zealand’s most trustworthy person. Sir Ray dedicates his life to help improve the lives of millions of people all over the world. A lesser known fact is that he is also an excellent artist. His book revealing his inspirational life is one that is impossible to put down. I rarely recommend books – but this one is life changing. You can read about Sir Ray and his amazing works here: http://www.medicinemondiale.org/

New paintings unveiled

My latest paintings to be released for viewing on my website are titled:

Kaitiaki. This painting and the inspiration behind it will surprise you…

South Island Tomtit – perched on a lichen-covered branch, this beautiful bird hopped from side to side as if undecided which profile was best.

Stewart Island Robin – this gregarious creature followed us as we hiked across Stewart Island

Over the next month I will be releasing new paintings on my ‘Exhibition 2011’ page:

http://www.susanart.com/blog/exhibition-2011

You can also see the images and read about the inspiration behind the paintings as they are released in my blog:

http://www.susanart.com/blog/

Tauranga Arts Festival

I usually try to coincide my (once in every four year) exhibition with the bi-annual Tauranga Arts Festival. We have managed to do this again. So many who travel great distances for my exhibition will enjoy the opportunity to extend their stay in our beautiful part of the world and perhaps view the World Press Photography, the Grace exhibition of photography, take in a number of the fabulous shows on offer – or wander the streets of Tauranga and enjoy the street performers and the many free to view opportunities that abound at the festival. Tauranga will be abuzz – so do extend your stay if you can. But remember to check my exhibition dates so your Art Festival show bookings don’t clash with the date you choose to attend my Recollection exhibition!

For Artists Newsletter Section

Learn the secrets behind creating a glowing, vibrant red – stage 2

For the artist who wants to unravel the secrets of creating a warm, vibrant, glowing red – the second installment of ‘How to create a glowing red in watercolor’ is now complete for you to enjoy. You can see that here: http://www.susanart.com/blog/

Exploring the Website

My webmaster Doris is an artist herself. We both know what artists would love to see in a
website. So Doris dedicates a great deal of time and much passion into creating a “For
Artists” section on my website that delivers information and inspiration for artists as well as everything we would love to find on a website specifically designed to help artists on their painting journey.

If you are an artist – this section of my website is for you.

Here are four links to pages Doris has created over the last year or so. They are on the site
amongst other pages and could easily be overlooked with the huge amount of other
information on my site. So I have decided to highlight these pages as there may be
information on them that could help you with your painting style. Each page focuses on
teaching, sharing the breakthroughs I have discovered and also talking about the materials I use. They highlight some of the watercolor methods and watercolor techniques I use in all of my paintings.They are designed to be part of my DVD promotional pages so of course they also highlight my DVDs.

Have fun exploring these pages – and do take a moment to check out the links to other
lessons via the links. My website has a wealth of information. It is designed with you in mind so do take the time to explore….

Buy all three DVDs together to receive free shipping anywhere in the world

So many are enjoying our free shipping offer for purchases of all three DVDs, so we have decided to keep that going for a while longer. It certainly is a big saving. Christmas is just around the corner so these offers are certainly something to ponder.

Susan Harrison-Tustain da Vinci Signature Brush Sets and Schmincke Signature Paint Sets

Parkers Fine Art Supplies of Sydney, Australia are offering both of these sets at a special – but short term price – PLUS free shipping anywhere in the world!

Parkers Fine Art Supplies

Greg Daniels is offering a brilliant price on my da Vinci Signature brush sets and free shipping anywhere in the world

Greg Daniels – Susan Harrison-Tustain

Best Wishes and happy inspired painting to you all!

May 2011

admin — Fri, 20 May 2011 06:36:36 +0000

Hello Everyone

It has once again been a while since my previous message – but I hope you will find the contents of this newsletter well worth waiting for.

Apart from links to items that may be of interest to you – you will also find a “Teaching Section” below where I discuss how to create a glowing red in your paintings. Creating a glow in shadowed areas can be tricky – all will be revealed below …

But first a big “Welcome” to the numerous new subscribers who have recently joined my mailing list.

I have recently updated my blog with quite a lot of information that may be of interest to everyone: http://www.susanart.com/blog

The latest blog post covers the following:

• Feedback from article in International Artist Magazine: April/May issue

• Major Exhibition information for National and International visitors

• New painting released: to be unveiled at my October exhibition.

Newsletter bonuses:

* Our world-wide free shipping on my DVDs and prints has been extended until 15th June.

Mini Tutorial: Creating a warm glowing red

This is not a step by step guide of how to paint this subject. What I want to highlight are a number of points using this study as an example.

This Parrot Tulip study will be an ongoing tutorial where I will teach you many of the invaluable lessons that will help you create form – no matter which medium you choose.

Lets take a look at the two steps in this study:

Art-1-1 - Parrot Tulip - Step One

(Art 1-1) Although this painting is predominately red – you can see that I have been able to create form with what is almost a monochrome painting. How did I do that? You can see I didn’t simply rely on tonal value to create form.

The answer is simple – I used warm and cool colors to establish and mold the form: Warm hues on one side of each shape and cool on the other side.

In my next newsletter we will have an in-depth discussion on warm and cool reds. But for now let’s take a look at the layers I used and let’s chat about why I used them. I will show the alternatives and this will help you, not only understand my reasoning, but also help you with your future studies – no matter which color, subject or medium you choose.

Layering

This is the first stage of creating the basic shapes where I use warm and cool colors to help me establish form. You will notice the glow I create in the inner sanctum of the tulip prior to applying my shadow color.

Art-1-2 - Finished painting - Parrot Tulip - Step Two

You can see here (Art 1-2) how the shadow color brings a greater three dimensional feel to the painting. Adding a shadow color will dull the previous washes so we need to compensate for this by creating an exaggerated glow in the initial stages. Throughout this painting you can see my red is vibrant. Read on and you will find out why:

Let’s discuss how to create a glowing red hue:

Art 1-3 - Scarlet Red on white paper

Art 1-4 - Aureolin Yellow Modern underwash. Scarlet Red wash over top

Compare these examples:
Can you feel the warmth of this glowing red tulip? Compare these two examples of red: One has an Aureolin Yellow underwash beneath the Scarlet Red wash (Art 1-4). The other has Scarlet Red (Schmincke) on the white of paper (Art 1-3).

Can you see how the white paper gives the red a ‘raw’ appearance? Conversely the red that has a yellow underwash exudes warmth as well as giving the appearance of substance and a glowing ‘from within’. The degree of glow depends on the depth of yellow underwash we use. More yellow = greater glow

Highlights are generally cooler than shadowed areas
What else can you see in this tulip painting? Have you noticed the outer petals are hit by light – whereas the inner petals and the petals at the top of the tulip are not in direct sunlight? You will have noticed how much warmer these inner and top petals are.

Direct sunlight generally casts a cool light on a subject. This tulip is no exception. You will have noticed how the red hue closest to the highlight is affected by cool light. This is why I have used a cooler red surrounding the highlight. As the petal recedes away from the light – you will notice the red begins to glow. This is how we can use light describe form. Warm and cool colors allow us to create the impression of shape.

Ruby Red for cool red areas
To describe this space where I need a cool hue next to the cool highlight, I choose Ruby Red (Schmincke) which is a Quinacridone hue. It is cooler because it is closer to blue on the color wheel in comparison to the much warmer Scarlet Red we used on the other areas. Scarlet Red is warmer because it is closer to yellow on the color wheel. But when we need our red to emit warmth and glow – using a warm red is not enough on it’s own. We can emphasize the warmth by creating a yellow underwash below our red washes. You will see the difference this makes in the examples below.

Glowing Centre of flowers
Generally in the centre of a flower you can find areas where warm glowing color is bouncing around enhancing the beautiful warm glow that we see in these enclosed areas. This requires a greater depth of yellow in our underwashes. The cooler areas such our Ruby Red passages need to be kept cooler. To achieve this we don’t use a yellow underwash there – or we use an almost unperceivable yellow underwash – just enough to take the raw look from this cool area.

What is the Effect of a yellow underwash under purple/pink?
What would happen if we put our normal strength yellow underneath the purple/pink Ruby Red? Why not try it? Take a look at my mini demo of what happens when you do that. Can you see how the yellow dulls the purple/pink? (Art 1-5)

Art 1-5 - Ruby Red with Aureolin Yellow Modern underwash

Why does a yellow underwash mute and dull Purple/Pink?
Do you know why this happens?

I speak here in general terms. As with most things in painting – there are scenarios – however rare – where we see exceptions to what we mostly know to be true.

For the answer to this question, we need to think about our complimentary colors. Understanding what they do will help you understand why the yellow underwash didn’t allow our purple/pink to glow – instead we see how a yellow underwash will mute a pink/purple hue:

Art 1-5 – Yellow is the complimentary color of purple. This means it is opposite on the color wheel to purple. When we want a muted shade of purple, we simply use a touch of the complimentary color which is yellow. This will dull our purple down a little or a lot – depending on how much complimentary color (yellow) we use.

Art 1-6 - Ruby Red with pale Aureolin Yellow Modern underwash

Art 1-6 - So the converse of this is that if we want our purple/pink hue to look fresh and vibrant – when this is the case we need to avoid using yellow ( or create a very pale yellow underwash).

Art 1-7 - Ruby Red on white paper

Let’s get back to our pink/purple that sits next to our highlight in our tulip painting:
Had I used a strong yellow underwash in this area – I would get a more dull hue as you can see demonstrated above (Art 1-5). But you can see the purple/pink in this painting is fresh and not dulled or muted. Now you know why!

Understanding warm and cool colors and how to use them effectively in our paintings is not an easy thing to grasp initially. So let’s leave it at that for now. Try to recreate the examples of color I have shown above. Experimenting will help you see the logic of it for yourself. Once you can grasp it – you will be amazed by it. It will feel as if someone has turned a light on for you.

As we progress through the lessons in this Parrot Tulip study in future newsletters, I will bring more examples for you to learn from. You will find this awareness will make all the difference to the reality and feeling of presence in your work.

You will find more in-depth information in my DVDs. Being able to listen as well as see something in a DVD – unfold before your eyes – is a far more enduring way to learn and retain the information. But hopefully these mini demonstrations will help you ease into warm and cool color and the huge difference this will have on your future work.

DVDs

The free shipping offer (to anywhere in the world) on the sale of any number of my DVDs will be extended for a month. So many of you are taking advantage of this free shipping offer that I have twisted a few arms and will keep it going until June 15th.

It is very humbling to receive the feedback on my DVDs. I love to teach and my passion for art makes my thirst for knowledge become an amazing journey of discovery. Sharing the knowledge and breakthroughs to you all through my DVDs is such a pleasure because I know how invaluable these lessons are. It has taken me years to learn through trial and error. My DVDs fast track through these learning stages so you can dedicate your time to painting wonderful and timeless pieces of fine art that will bring pleasure for generations.

If you have any questions regarding the content of my DVDs, don’t hesitate to write to:
info@susanart.com

Happy painting!

February 2011

admin — Fri, 20 May 2011 00:18:33 +0000

February 2011

Hello Everyone,
Thank you to everyone for your concern for us in the wake of the horrific earthquake that has devastated New Zealand’s second largest city. Your messages from all over the world have been very much appreciated.

We live half way down the East Coast of the North Island of New Zealand. Christchurch is half way down the East Coast of the South Island so we did not feel the quake. But our hearts and thoughts go out to all of those affected.

We cannot begin to comprehend the devastation and difficulties you are having to deal with this, the second major quake – as well as the numerous aftershocks you have endured since last first the big quake in September. We hope and trust that you and your families are all safe and have not suffered too much damage.

We know there will be much to cope with in the weeks and months ahead. At these times it is heartening that your plight has touched people all over the world and our prayers and good wishes are with you all.

Many people have been awaiting my latest newsletter which I had put it on hold for a few days. Then realized this is an ideal way to reach so many to thank you all for your messages, thoughts and good wishes and to also pass those on to those affected by the devastating earthquake. It is a lovely notion that we are all united and supportive no matter where we live in the world. Thank you to you all.

For those interested – here is the newsletter I had been about to send out two days ago:

SusanArt Newsletter February 2011

February already! Time to send out a quick roundup of news:

Sir Ray Avery to officially open Susan’s 2011 exhibition
Ross Bachelder (The Flute Guy, Boston, USA) to play at Susan’s 2011 exhibition
Sneak preview of two new exhibition paintings
Free shipping on DVD offer
SusanArt Blog – learn how Susan uses her brushes to give her soft painting transitions.

Sir Ray Avery to officially open Susan’s Recollection Exhibition October 2011.

I feel so very honored that Sir Ray Avery has very kindly accepted my invitation to officially open my October 2011 exhibition. New Zealander of the Year in 2010, Sir Ray is an inspirational man in every sense of the word. His tireless work for humanity is incredibly admirable and so very far-reaching.

Sir Ray is a scientist, entrepreneur and inventor whose innovations have benefited millions in the developing world. He is also a wonderful artist, although he has hung up his brushes for the time being as he feels the strong pull to continue to dedicate his time to his family and giving a voice and better life to millions. In 2003 he established Medicine Mondiale, an independent development agency and charity. It creates low cost sustainable solutions that combat global poverty and health issues of the most vulnerable and neglected societies.

If you enjoy reading, his book ‘Rebel with a Cause’ is one you will not be able to put down. A review describes it as follows:

“Today a successful businessman, scientist, entrepreneur, inventor and humanitarian, Ray Avery shares, for the first time, his own heartbreaking childhood and inspirational story of one man’s determination to change the world in this candid and often laugh-out-loud funny memoir.”

Here is the website of Sir Ray’s charity and book ($16 from each sale goes to Medicine Mondiale): http://www.medicinemondiale.org

And click here for a recent newspaper article written about Ray

Previously I have not had an entry fee to my exhibitions. At my October exhibition I have decided it would be appropriate to have a gold coin donation entry fee, with the proceeds going to Medicine Mondiale.

I am also very humbled and honored that Dr Jon Mayson has offered to be Master of Ceremonies at this exhibition. Jon is also a man who has my huge admiration for all he does for New Zealand and the arts.

Recollection Exhibition (October 2011)

I have a story to share:

Ross Bachelder ‘The Flute Guy’ was playing at the Boston Museum when Richard and I were there three years ago. I was captivated by his magical playing as well as the lighting and atmosphere. I stopped and listened and of course being an artist – I watched as the light danced across his face, reflected in his glasses and caught the musical passion in his eyes.

I had to paint him! We chatted for a while and have since been in contact discussing how fantastic it would be for him to play his flute at my exhibition. It is now that I can announce that Ross will be traveling to New Zealand to play at my exhibition in October.

The painting that followed this wonderful meeting will also be released at the exhibition.

My exhibitions are rare – it has been four years since my previous show. You can see this exhibition is going to be something very special.

Below is a sneak preview of this oil painting:

Two new paintings released

We usually see between 3000 – 5000 visitors to my exhibition over the two days the works are on show. Many people travel from all over New Zealand, Australia and North America, so I try to make the exhibition something very special that will remain in the memories of those who visit it.

With all the usual exhibition build-up, I need to back this wonderful drum roll up with some new paintings!

I am very excited about the pieces I have been working on since 2007 so you are the first to see this sneak preview of my latest work:

‘The Flute Guy’
Click image to enlarge

‘Ophir Renaissance – Reflection on the Past’
Click image to enlarge

You can see the previews of the paintings I have previously released and exhibition information here: http://www.susanart.com/blog/exhibition-2011

Special offer on DVDs

We are currently offering free shipping on sales of all three DVDs no matter where in the world you live (three x 2-disc sets). This will give you 11 ½ hours of invaluable tuition on six discs. All delivered to your door with no shipping charges.

Master strokes with Susan’s Brush techniques

I have recently uploaded an article I have written about how I use my brushes. You will be surprised to know I do not stroke – I ‘dab’. All will be revealed in my new blog posts.

Scroll down the blog and you will find informative articles I have written to give a wealth of information for you the artist and/or lover of fine art.

http://www.susanart.com/blog/

Next newsletter
Richard’s much promised article on ‘photography for the artist’ will feature in a future newsletter. He was hoping to have it completed earlier, but has recently undergone some surgery. I’m pleased to report that he has bounced back from that. So watch this space in my next newsletter!

Lots to ponder here so I will leave you with all of the above and wish you all joy in art.

Once again – our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the Christchurch earthquake.

Susan & Richard

December 2010

admin — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 02:17:18 +0000

December 2010

Hello everyone. Happy Festive Season!
I love the notion that there is a special time of year when we can take stock of the preceding 12 months and appreciate the special happenings that have brought joy during this time. I always find it is people who bring the most to our lives. Family and friends – and included in those are the artists and collectors of art who subscribe to this newsletter. Your interest in my work is much appreciated and also humbling. My art has allowed me many opportunities and opened doors through which I have come to ‘know’ many of you. This has been such a pleasure. Thank you so much for your support and interest.

Wow what a year it has been. Busy and full of so many amazing things – many of which I have shared through previous newsletters. The year ahead is looking full of promise with my main focus being my (four yearly) exhibition in October. I am aware there is much international interest too so I have placed the exhibition details below.

Main features in this newsletter:

2011 Exhibition ‘Recollection’ announced
European sight-seeing, painting, photography and wine appreciation Tour 2012
Great News! The Susan Harrison-Tustain Schmincke Signature Paint Set soon to be available in the US!
Gift Giving suggestions
Upcoming article for the Artist: “To layer or to mix?” to be sent in a newsflash in the next week.
The Influence encouragement has on children

2011 Exhibition ‘Recollection’ Officially Announced

The Lighthouse - Click to enlarge

I have some exciting exhibition news I will release in my newsflash later in the week. But for now you can click HERE for details of the exhibition and to view images of the work released for viewing. I will release new works for viewing over the next 10 months. You will see those and any further details of the exhibition in my newsletters and also on this link below:

http://www.susanart.com/blog/exhibition-2011

European sight-seeing, painting, photography and wine appreciation Tour 2012

A fully escorted tour to explore the best of Europe.

Richard and I have travelled extensively and love to share the most fascinating, breathtakingly beautiful and captivating places we have experienced. Richard has had five seasons of leading tours in Europe and we have both enjoyed a lifetime of travel.

Our unique tours offer our expertise, knowledge and a small tour group of ‘friends’ – like-minded people who want to relax and leave everything to us knowing you are going to see the very best of Europe in safe experienced hands.

Part of our creating such a tour is being aware of how to ensure the best of times for our guests. It begins with being familiar with the areas and understanding how the ‘systems’ work in each place we visit, knowing the must-see places and the places to avoid. Knowledge and experience in creating a brilliant itinerary such as this means we can take you on a trip of a life-time.

Our tours are focused on visiting stunning places and introducing you to things that are not necessarily on the typical tourist trail. Our tours are about taking the time to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the feeling of ‘being there’. Time for leisure and time to experience the best each destination has to offer. You are in safe and competent hands.

This tour is going to be fantastic! We are currently working on the itinerary and it is looking amazing. At this stage we are planning on late September 2012 for around 24 days. The details are still to be set, but we are looking at beginning in France’s Loire Valley, staying in a chateau where we will enjoy a cook school with a Michelin star chef, sight-seeing three of the top chateaux, an optional excursion of a balloon ride over the Loire chateaux, visiting ancient villages and their markets, painting for those interested, photography, wine tasting as well as visiting a cheese making factory – enjoying all the magic of the Loire. Leisure time is also important – our tours are designed with our guests in mind. Then it’s on to Switzerland, staying in Interlaken or the beautiful village of Lauterbrunnen. The rackrail train to the Junfraujoch is one of my favourite excursions in Europe. Incredible Alpine scenery, amazing feats of railroad engineering, top ski resorts, Swiss chalets perched on the side of mountains, stunning waterfalls, the longest glacier in Europe, grazing dairy cows with their evocative bells, incredible wild flowers ideal for a little painting cameo in your travel journal – this area has it all. A leisurely few days here with a few surprises you will never forget.

Then it’s on to Lake Como, Italy where we will take a cruise from Como to Bellagio. We visited this gorgeous little village on our previous European tour and I think it was unanimous that everyone would have loved to stay in Bellagio a night or two.

Then to magnificent Venice. I am always fascinated by Venice. The architecture, the art, the history, culture and of course the canals. There is so much more to Venice than the tourist sees. We will show you the essence of this magical place. Once again you have some surprises in store for you here during the three full days spent in this magical place. We will then board our fantastic cruise ship to begin a cruise that will take us to the very best of the Mediterranean.

We have many who have been awaiting another European tour but we like to keep our group small enough to ensure personal attention and lots of fun. Once the details are finalised I will announce the tour officially. For those whose interest has been sparked by the few snippets above – remember that the proposed dates are Sept/Oct 2012.

Susan Harrison-Tustain Signature Schmincke Paint Set soon available in the US!

Fantastic news! You will be pleased to hear we are at last moving closer to having my Schmincke Signature Paint Set of the 12 colors in my palette (and the wonderful Japanned tinned box with flip palettes) available online in the US. As soon as the details are finalised you will be the first to know via a newsflash.

Gift Giving Suggestions:

DVDs: We are offering Free Shipping on any of my three 2-disc DVD sets until the end of January 2011. Just use the word “Susan” in the code space on the order form and you will be given free shipping no matter where you are in the world. At the time of writing (Dec 14th) there is still time to receive these DVDs before Christmas for our USA and New Zealand readers. (See links at the bottom of this newsletter.)

Signed Limited Edition Giclée or Lithograph reproductions of my paintings:

We are also offering Free Shipping on my giclées and lithographs until the end of January 2011. Just use the word “Susan” in the code space on the order form and you will be given free shipping no matter where you are in the world. (For New Zealand readers, there is still time to receive these before Christmas.)

An Article written by Susan:

To mix or to Layer? Which is best?

I have almost completed an article especially written as a thank you to you all for your on-going support in 2010. It will be an excellent reference and will be sent out in a Newsflash in the next week. So do watch this space!

UPDATE: View the article HERE

The Influence encouragement has on children:

My mother was the person who introduced me to painting. Although she passed away when I was a teenager – her love, nurturing and happy nature live on in my heart and also in my art. I paint because she opened a window for me which allowed me to see my potential. That is what I love to do for my children, grandchildren and students.

I love the notion that our encouragement can have a profound and lasting influence on our young ones. I have a small pink fishing tackle box with a few paints and some brushes, a painting apron, pencil and an eraser under our Christmas tree for our little grand-daughter (she is nearly 2 years old). Each visit Imogen walks directly into my studio saying “Painning Nana – painning”. She picks up my weighty fishing tackle box and tries to hand it to me, along with my water pot – saying “water peeeez”. She is so serious about it all and throws herself wholeheartedly into the joy of creating exciting color, strokes and shapes on the paper. Triumphant at the results she leaves at the end of the day with confidence in her ability and a painting ‘present’ in her hand. This will stand Imogen is such good stead and will be a string to her bow should she wish to follow this road later in life. A little encouragement and time goes such a long way with little ones.

So as the end of 2010 is nearly here and the holiday season is about to begin – leading us into 2011, I wish you all the joy of art and painting. Art brings a deeper appreciation of all that surrounds us and it is this that keeps us grounded as well as in awe of all we are privileged to experience.

One of the things we painted on my recently finished NZ workshops were the sky and clouds. Many of the artists who attended traveled Internationally for the workshops. Many wrote that on their flights home they were astonished at all the colors they could now appreciate when looking out of the ‘plane window to the voluminous clouds. That thrilled me because I knew that painting had opened their eyes to a whole new dimension. Their world was never going to be the same again. Exciting! The next time you see clouds – take the time to look and see their incredible beauty, the multitude of colors and how the light affects the colors, highlights and shadows you see.

I wish you all the joy and hope of the season as well as vision to see the everyday beauty that surrounds us all.

Happy holidays everyone!

Susan and Richard

Quote
“A laugh is a smile that bursts”
Mary H Waldrip

September 2010

admin — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 01:05:42 +0000

September 2010

Hello Everyone

We have such a variety of topics to share with you including the announcement of the Title Competition winner.

In this newsletter you will find:

Christchurch New Zealand Earthquake
Painting Title Competition Winner Announced
View new Painting just released (for 2011 Exhibition)
A New Art Supply Discovery
What palette and brushes do I use?
Website news
How to Create the Impression of an Opaque Object When Using Transparent Watercolor

Christchurch New Zealand Earthquake

Thank you for the kind thoughts and good wishes of overseas friends in response to the news of the devastating earthquake experienced in Christchurch, New Zealand on Saturday the 4^th of September. We live in the top half of the North Island, whereas Christchurch is on the South Island, so we did not feel the shake – but naturally our hearts go out to those who have suffered.

Richard and I would like to say we are thinking of all those who live in Christchurch and the surrounding Canterbury region. We can only imagine the terror, devastation and difficulties you are dealing with at this time. We know there will be many ongoing issues to cope with in the weeks and months ahead, but the strength, resilience and community spirit of the people is already evident.

So many messages of concern were sent to us and we thank you for your thoughtfulness. The instant response and good wishes you sent made me realize how small the world really is and how when things go wrong – even for a small corner of the world – people unite and rally with support, help and comforting thoughts and wishes. Thank you.

Painting Title Competition

I truly was humbled by the wonderful response to the Painting Title Competition to provide a title for my painting of the scene in New York’s SoHo Boom Bar. To say I was overwhelmed is an understatement. Thank you to all of you who obviously gave much thought and consideration, then wrote and submitted your wonderful title suggestions for my oil painting. I would love to have written to you all individually to thank you, but sheer numbers made that impossible.

We were thrilled to receive so many fantastic submissions! Often we hear competition judges say how difficult it has been to choose a winner. In this case it was nearly impossible to choose as the entries have been fabulous as so many of the titles would be ideal for this painting. It was particularly interesting to see how different people had interpreted the painting in different ways, bringing their own experiences and emotions to bear on its appreciation.

But I’ve had to choose one and my final choice is:

‘Confidente’ or perhaps I will make it ‘La confidente’

Submitted by Jorge Gonzalez. Congratulations Jorge!

The title is short but I think it conveys quite a lot about the scene and suggests some of the narrative taking place, without revealing too much. The girl with the beret has a French air about her, so I think the French spelling of the title is appropriate. But, there were other titles which were equally as suitable, including:

- Meet me at 7?
– SoHo Rendezvous
– I’ll Be There
– Quiet Rapport
– A Little Bit of Paris in New York
– Paris in New York
– Absent Friends

Congratulations Jorge. Thank you and well done to you. This is a major oil painting in my 2011 exhibition and will always carry this fabulous title you have submitted.

I am very aware of the importance of a title as it needs to challenge and intrigue the viewer, but also invite the viewer to interpret the painting themselves and apply their own history to it. I was thrilled to see so many submissions did exactly this. You are experts at this – so I may ask you all again to put your thinking caps on and help me search for that perfect title for future paintings I am struggling to title. It is lovely to see how you all rose to the challenge!

New Painting Released

I seem to have a preoccupation with timelessness. My paintings have opened my eyes to this fact – rather than the ‘fact’ being the conscious precursor to my paintings.

A good example of this is my painting of a well-used door.

Do you ever ponder the people who have contributed to the history etched on such functional things as a simple door? The worn paint, the bare wood, the scratches, the inventive but crude additions all conjure thoughts of people whose feet are firmly planted on the ground. Hard-working, honest, genuine, practical people. These people were our forebears. What better tribute than to show their lives etched in the structures they created? This is a portrait that speaks of the struggles, the triumphs and the story that says they were here and they made a difference.

A new discovery

Materials
As you all know I am always looking out for exciting new products that I can recommend to you. For some time I have used a color previewer that I made some time ago. Arleta Pech created her excellent color viewer which was mentioned in my previous newsletter. See HERE: Color Viewer

Many of you asked to be notified if anyone commercially creates a transparent color previewer that has large areas of graduated color.

The great news is that Marylka has just launched a color previewer with exactly that. This previewer removes the guesswork from trying to select the ideal color or mix of colors we need to create that perfect final hue we are after.

Not only can you choose which hue you need – but you can also trial many depths of hue before you have to commit to any washes or glazes. Previewers are a fantastic tool I could not be without.

Marylka has created a fabulous set. The colors are generic so the sets can be used for any reds, blues, greens, yellows, oranges, grays etc that are on your palette. They can also be used for any medium: watercolor, oil, acrylic, pastel, colored pencil etc

This glazing tool allows you to determine the next color glaze you need to achieve the hue you want. You can preview the color before you commit to it. You may like to see what a mix of several colors will give you. You can also view how altering the sequence of colors can give you a totally different final hue. The set is waterproof and it has large areas of graduated color so you can see the effect of the glazing in many depths of color from light to dark.

I am sure you will know I accept no financial benefit from the products I recommend. It is important that I remain objective and am seen to be that way.

I know how invaluable a previewer is so I am more than happy to endorse and introduce it to you – just as I did with Arleta’s color viewer Glazing Tool.

You can find out all about Marylka’s Color Previewer here: Color Previewer

August 2010

admin — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 04:03:41 +0000

From the Art Studio of Susan Harrison-Tustain

The NY Boom Bar
Would you like to choose a title for my new painting?
31 ½” x 21″
800mm x 530mm
Oil on Belgian Linen

Hello Everyone
Let’s begin this newsletter with a challenge! I finished this oil painting of a New York cafe scene some time ago. It features the Boom Bar in SoHo New York. Richard and I wandered along the street looking for somewhere characterful to eat and we happened across this stunning restaurant/bar. The decor and the rich, warm, soft light created a moody atmosphere.

I asked the waitress to pose behind the bar and when I returned home I asked Emma to pose for me with a hat I felt suited the style of the day. So now it is time to give the painting a title.

Would you like to make a suggestion or two? Let’s put our heads together – put our thinking caps on and conjure up an evocative title for this large oil painting. You can click the image above for a larger version of the painting, or visit my website for more details here: http://www.susanart.com/blog

Please email your title suggestion to:
richard@susanart.com
Subject line: Your title suggestion
Then simply place your name and email address in the text area of your email message.

The cutoff date for title suggestions is August 31st, 2010

I will announce the choice in my blog on my website and in my next newsletter. This is going to be fun!

In This Newsletter:

* Susan Introduces Arleta Pech

* New Paintings for my 2011 exhibition

* Painting Inspiration

* Color breakthroughs

* How to remove your finished painting from Gator Board

SusanArt news:

It has been quite a while since my last newsletter. Life is always full and never dull! I hope you are all enjoying my new website and all of the practical, useful and also magical features Doris has created. My website is a ‘work in progress’ and currently Doris is working on my Fine Art Prints pages. If you click on the images such as Enchante par la Provence or others such as Echoes of Yesterday, you will see the wonderful pages Doris has created for each print. A close up detail of the painting is a wonderful tool for those looking for art for their walls – but also for artists wanting to see the work in more detail. Not all of the images are finished – but many are – so have fun! My new blog is very popular so keep watching there for news, inspiration and breakthroughs.

Arleta Pech
You will know my time is always stretched too thinly. That is mostly due to the fact that I like to give 110% to everything. The problem is I don’t have 110% of time!

Many of you have asked if I will create an oil painting DVD. Sadly I won’t be doing that this year but I have good news for you…

My dear friend Arleta Pech (Colorado USA) now paints mostly in oil and has developed a new glazing technique that allows her to create the most luminous paintings. She has released two DVDs and a book showing you how she does it. You will be amazed by Arleta’s paintings and methods!

I will let Arleta introduce herself:

Hello Artists,

Susan is such a dear friend to mention my Oil DVD lessons and new book. If I could speak to each of you I would tell you that my career has been in watercolor for over 30 years, so when I moved my gallery originals into oils, I brought my love of watercolor’s luminosity and the white of paper with me! I developed a simple and healthy way to work in oils very much like I worked in watercolor where I save the white of my surface and work with only thin glazes of transparent oil colors, not using any white or opaque’s. This allows me to work from light to dark just as we do in watercolor. The results I think speak for themselves, and this is now the number one selling book by Northlight. So I’m honored that so many artists are excited about this new way to approach oils. And if you’re concerned about health or smells, I use NO SOLVENTS in my oil painting, just a little walnut/alkyd medium to thin the paint and I wash my brushes out with soap.

We have put together a “OIL COMBO LESSON” this includes my Autographed book, two oil DVDs each comes with patterns, reference photos that play worldwide for over 6 hours of learning as I walk you through each project step by step. The included glazing tool comes with a printed lesson and is a great help with the exercise in the book but also is a great way to learn glazing. This combo is $149.00 which is a savings from buying individually; shipping to overseas for first class parcel post is $25.00 since the book is so heavy. Individual Orders without the book, ship for only $12.00 by international priority mail.

(Individual prices are:)
-Radiant Oils $29.99 on Transparent Glazing in Oil
-Transparent Oil DVD $49.00 that compliments the book
-In The Candles Glow $69.00 taking oil glazing to the next level with a few added opaque’s for details
-Glazing tool 14.95 shows you the value and hues that go with the book’s exercises

For more information on my DVDs visit http://www.arletapech.com/ART-DVD-LESSONS.htm

Overseas International Orders this is the link to that secure page to use VISA MC
https://www.arletapech.com/international_orders.htm

US and Canada may use the http://www.shop.art-dvd-lessons.com secure shopping cart

Happy painting everyone!!
Arleta Pech

New Paintings for Susan’s 2011 exhibition
Collectors and artists who enjoy my work like to have a sneak preview of my 2011 exhibition. I am gradually releasing images of my latest paintings in the blog on my website. You will see I have also written about the inspiration behind these paintings. These are new pieces that will become major features in my exhibition. As each painting is announced in my blog – they are simultaneously being released in the gallery which can be found in the ‘Fine Art Site’ section of my website:

http://www.susanart.com/blog/original-watercolor-and-oil-paintings

The latest image to be released is one that I haven’t named yet (seen at the top of this newsletter). You may like to help me with a title? You can see and read about the painting here:

http://www.susanart.com/blog/

Painting Inspiration:
I’m often asked what do I like to paint most? The answer to that is that I love painting so many things and my favorite subject keeps changing. Just as my favorite medium changes between watercolor and oils and back again. But I do notice my work is taking a distinct move toward earth tones and the subject matter is also becoming very earthy. This is not a deliberate thing – these are the subjects that excite me the most at present. An example of this is my painting Liberty which you can see below.

My advice to artists is not to confine yourself by trying to fit into a particular genre. You don’t need labels to describe ‘your style’ or subject matter. Allow yourself to paint what excites you and let that be fluid and let that choice move with your inspiration. You will find the genre that suits you most will emerge naturally. But it will also change as your life experiences change.

Here is another of my 2011 Exhibition pieces:

Liberty
Watercolor on Arches 300 gsm (140lbs)Hot Pressed paper
(480 mm x 280 mm) 19″ x 11″

You can read about the inspiration for this painting in my blog/news on my website.

Color breakthroughs
I have been experimenting with my palette recently and found a wonderful array of fabulous and natural color combinations can be created with a mix of Scarlet Red and Sap Green. We all know that when mixing complementary colors you will create a dulled hue. If you balance the colors so they neutralize each other completely you will ultimately have a gray hue.

I have often used Alizarin Crimson and Sap Green together to give me a grayed red, green or brown hue. But a mixture of these hues can be strong (almost look black if used in multiple layers). There are times when I need a similar hue – but much less intense. So when I recently discovered I can create a more gentle hue using Scarlet Red and Sap Green, I realized I could use this mix for so many purposes including beautiful soft transitions of muted pinks and browns as well as greens. The fabulous combination of Scarlet Red and Sap Green will be one I will use constantly from now on. Imagine the beautiful shadow hues on leaves too!

These colors are already in my magic palette of 12 colors I use to paint everything.

Remember there is a wealth of information on my website for artists – including a list of my palette of colors. These hints and tips and the art materials I use – as well as a list of the retailers who stock them – can be accessed by going to my website. They can be found in the ‘For Artists’ section:

http://www.susanart.com

How to remove your finished painting from Gator Board
These simple instructions will allow you to remove your stretched painting from Gator-Board and leave your board and painting without any damage:

Ensure your painting is bone dry first.

Take a look around your tape to see if you can find an area where there may be a slight lift/air-space in an area where the tape meets the watercolor paper. I like to use a kitchen knife that has a strong but thin blade. Holding the knife at an angle to ensure you dont pierce the board – simply pierce a small hole in the tape so you can gently slide the knife underneath the watercolor paper. Ensure your knife is held as flat to the board as possible so you don’t disturb the surface of the board.

Once you have the point of the knife underneath the w/c paper – you simple slide the knife around the edges of the watercolor paper (the knife point and a small amount of blade is under the watercolor paper). I like to hold the knife reasonably low and flat to the board. It is just like opening an envelope with an envelope knife.

Voila! Now your painting is separated from the board!

Do I remove the tape on the edge of the painting?
You have some choices:

You have now taken your painting from your board and this will leave part of the stretching tape still adhered to the white margin of your painting. (At the drawing stage of a painting – I always ensure I have an inch or more white margin around my painting).

You can cut the tape off if you don’t like it. Or leave it on the edge of your painting for stability. The decision whether to leave your tape on your paper is a choice for you.

One thing to consider:
Is the tape you use archival? This will influence your decision.

If you use Lukas Wet Adhesive Tape:
The Lukas tape I use is archival so it should not be a problem to leave it on the edge of the painting. Click here for retailers that supply this product

If you use Brown Gummed Tape:
I know the brown gummed tape I used to use is also archival. (But unfortunately the tape does not have a brand name or identifiable markings so I am not able to recommend a brown gummed tape).

Because I can’t speak for the numerous brown gummed tapes available - I would recommend you cut the tape off the edge of your white margin around your painting.

How to remove the tape from your Gator Board
The remainder of the tape is of course still on your Gator Board. I throw my Gator Board in the bath with the taped side of the board facing downward. I leave it 10 minutes or so and then simply pull the last of the tape off. Sometimes I may need to use a blunt knife to get the stubborn pieces off – but generally it comes off without much effort at all.

Remember to wipe around the area where the tape had been to ensure you have wiped off any remaining gum. We don’t want your next painting to stick to the board.

This sounds involved but in fact it is very straight forward and easy to do. I have explained it in fine detail to help you understand every scenario.

Now your board is fresh and clean and ready for your next painting. If you look after your Gator Board it will give you years of service. It is a fabulous product.

Have fun!
Happy painting everyone!

The Old Newsletter Archives: March 2008 – December 2009

admin — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 20:33:26 +0000

December 2009

Art Lesson: Molding form using color temperature and luminous shadow mixes.
Announcing my own signature brush and paint sets.
Special Happenings at the SusanArt Forum – “The SusanArt Painting Challenge!”

May 2009

Here is the third and final part of my article on Portrait and Figurative Painting, formerly featured in Australian Artist Magazine … plus links to parts 1 & 2.
My next exhibition announced … and The Impressionists at Te Papa.
How to choose the right frame for your painting … and a special offer.

December 2008

My Christmas message
Capture the intangible’ Part two
Workshops, DVDs, 2 New Books, Forum, Archives

November 2008

Page 1: Fine Art – Travel – Exhibition
Page 2: ‘Capture the intangible’ Part one
Page 3: Stewart Island

March 2008

Announcing – ‘EUROPE: An Artist’s Mediterranean Odyssey’