Gary's Historical Art And Illustration

Stogie

2012-01-13T12:13:00.001-05:00

I've decided to do all of the underpaintings for the first four portraits before painting. The cigar will give "mini" Portrait No 2 a little attitude. It's viewing images like this that make you wonder what these people must have been like in life. Next up will be the first female image.

Portrait No. 1

2012-01-06T15:33:00.005-05:00

Here is the subject of portrait No. 1. Right away you can see why I want to paint this. The guy has a great face. After cropping the photo I made a drawing of it which was then transferred on to Ampersand Gessoboard.

An underpainting done with Burnt Umber acrylic paint to pick out all the patterns of lights and darks. The face looks a bit narrow here. When I took the photo the painting must have been at a slight angle. The close up looks a bit better.

What should I call this series?

2012-01-06T15:13:00.002-05:00

I'm a huge fan of Daguerrotype and Ambrotype photographs. Early photography is the closest thing we'll ever have to a time machine. In addition to hundreds of Civil War photographs I've also downloaded hundreds of Photographs of civilian images. Studio photographs are not only comprised of the wealthy, but tradespeople and common laborers as well. These black and white images are deceiving as well. From the looks of them it's easy to think they were all or mostly clothed in drab boring colors. A while back I thought to do a series of miniature portraits based on early 19th century studio photographs. not only will these "mini" ( 6" X 6" ) portraits give me more practice, it might breathe a bit more life into what appear drab images, though they're far from that.

The four images above have been cropped to only include the head, shoulders, and possibly a hat or some other sort of head covering. After completing these additional portraits will be added between other projects. I'm mostly looking for great faces that have lots of character or clothing that does not appear that common in most photographs.

I'd like to give this series a name but have yet to come up with anything. Any thoughts?

Coming in 2012

2011-12-30T09:56:00.001-05:00

I've been in quite a slump, seeing my last post was in October. I'm working my way through a few old... okay VERY old projects. Hopefully 2012 stands a chance of being a much more productive year. BOTH of my blogs are in need of some serious TLC.

Spayd painting done

2011-10-05T17:34:00.000-05:00

Finally finished this one yesterday.

Another Manassas Commemoration is history

2011-07-28T17:50:00.003-05:00

I'm finally settling back into my normal routine following the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Manassas or Bull Run, depending upon which side of the Mason Dixon line you live on. Over 8,000 reenactors/ living historians gathered to commorate one of the first (don't forget Big Bethel) land engagements of the Civil War. The weekend was characterized by EXTREME heat and humidity which curtailed physical activity. There were some great historical impressions to be seen with several units making the effort to represent those standout units that fought at the battle. Unfortunately I did not take very many pictures as keeping cool and hydrated was the order of the day all day. The weekend did leave me with not only a deeper appreciation for the men that not only fought that day but the entire course of the war.

Fire Zouaves sit and relax before battle Saturday morning.
Note they all wear red overshirts. Civilian shirts as well as

Federal issue donnet flannel were also worn.

The front of the Fire Zouave's shebang denoting members
of the Columbian Engine No. 14. residing inside. This Engine
Company had the largest number of members of any other
Fire company in the Fire Zouaves.

Original paintings for sale

2011-07-21T21:43:00.000-05:00

I'm offering a small selection of original paintings for sale. If you're interested follow the link to Planet figure. Here is what's available.

2nd Virginia

8 X 10

Acrylic on board framed

"The Red Shirt"

8 X 10

Acrylic on board framed

Grenadier, Regiment Von Reidesel

8 X 10

Acrylic on board framed

Sergeant, 18th Line Regiment

8 X 10

Oil on Gessoboard unframed

Private, 33rd Regiment of Foot

6 X 6

Oil on gessoboard unframed

Fire Zouave Uniform

2011-07-15T14:48:00.009-05:00

It will be interesting to see the multitude of uniforms representing both sides that will be at the 150th (anniversary) Commemoration next week. It's interesting to ponder the confusion that took place at times with each side wearing essentially the same uniforms in certain cases.

Pictured above is a red wool flannel over shirt with a black
neckerchief with a Firemen's badge.Topping it off is a red
and blue kepi. The kepi would also have a Company
letter, in this case E with "1Z"standing for "First Zouaves"
under the Company letter. I'll be adding mine at the event.

When Elmer Ellsworth Recruited his regiment in New York City he was specific as to the type of men he wanted for his regiment. "I want the New York Firemen," Ellsworth said, "for there are no more effective men in the country, and none with whom I can do so much. They are sleeping on a volcano at Washington and I want men who can go into a fight now." Given the large number of Firemen in the ranks, many took to wearing their badges on their uniforms. It's those little touches that help to make a uniform stand out. That little touch has been added to today's Fire Zouaves.

Fifty reproduction badges representing
Columbian Hook & Ladder Co. 14 were
specially made for the event.

So you wanna be a Fire Zouave?

2011-07-05T17:25:00.000-05:00

I love a happy accident. By chance I realized a few month's back that I had a week of vacation that takes place on the 150th Anniversary of the 1st Battle of Manassass (1st Bull Run). Within a few days I had contacted some folks and found myself falling in with the 11th New York Volunteers, or more famously the Fire Zouaves". After getting the wife's blessing to go off to war I then had a lot of work ahead of me. The big hurdle was a uniform. By the time of Manassass the showy "zouave" dress associated with the 11th was on it's last leg. A new uniform was issued but was of Government issue not to the zouave's liking. The Government then hastily issued red fezzes and blue sashes which were worn with dark blue issue trousers and red over shirts. A group uniform "package" was put together for those that needed a uniform ( ME ) with the downside in my opinion being the quality of the garments. So I could either go with the $100 kepi, shirt, and trousers ( cost for all) or an unknown amount for top shelf reproductions. I jumped in with both feet and choose the latter. I had a fantastic reproduction of the Fire Zouaves kepi made that coat $85, and that's without the brass "E" company letter and "1Z" which adds another $5 to $10. My choices for a shirt were a red overshirt ( didn't have to be a Fireman's shirt ), Federal issue shirt ( which I had ), or other civilian pattern shirt. I decided to pursue the red over shirt option with the Federal issue as my fallback. I found a young lady that had a small number of red flannel over shirt kits available. After a few weeks and $110 later I have an accurate over shirt. The shirt is also accented with a black neckerchief tied sailor fashion adding another $16.
I still have a pair of dark blue Federal issue trousers on the way ( $185...ouch! ). The neatest touch to all of this is going to be a custom made reproduction Fireman's badge of which only 50 were being made costing $30. I'll do another posting of the entire ensemble once everything is here. There are a few minor things which I may pass on as they won't necessarily take away from my impression.

Participating in at least some of the 150th Commemorations will no doubt fuel some inspiration and drive which is lacking these HOT summer days. Further posts will also include those projects inspired by this event.

A little progress

2011-05-13T20:22:00.000-05:00

After wiping off the face four or five times I'm moving on to Spayd's uniform. There are only two images of Henry Spayd that I've seen. The first is a wartime image of Spayd in uniform. The other is a three quarter portrait of Spayed as an aged veteran on a G.A.R (Grand Army of the Republic) medal. Getting Spayd's likeness is really important so I'll come back to it later when the task is a little more fresh. I did manage to get some paint on the frock and blanket roll. I'm going to darken the coat in a few places once the paint has dried for a few days.

Henry Spayd, 149th PVI color bock-in

2011-05-10T14:48:00.000-05:00

This picture shows the basic colors blocked in. I want Spayd to look like he's standing in the open where there's a lot of sunlight. This painting is going to be 12 X 16, which will be my largest to date.

33rd Foot done...almost

2011-05-04T16:25:00.002-05:00

The painting is basically done. The only thing left is to put more highlights on the musket barrel. It's drying really slow. I think I'm going to start using Liquin to help accelerate drying. the reds turned okay though they could be a bit darker for an enlisted man.

The technical side of my painting continues. I found

studying how artists keith Rocco and Robert Griffing

helpful in getting the red coat to where it's at now.
highlighting red is a bit tricky, but that will come in

time.

A close up of the head.

33rd Foot homestretch

2011-04-22T12:07:00.000-05:00

Things are slowly winding down on this painting. I'm going to let it sit a few days as the red is probably the biggest hurdle on this one.

More work has been done on the coat since this

photo was taken. The red is taking a while to dry

so in a few days I'll go back in and add highlights

and deep shadows.

As in the previous photo more work has been done

on the face and tricorn as well.

33rd Foot update

2011-04-18T14:37:00.000-05:00

I finally got around to making some minor progress on this small study. At some point I'll do this as a larger 12 X 12 painting. The face has been really enjoyable to work on. I still have to tweak some of the features after the oils dry a day or so. I want to be careful here as it would be very easy to run this right into the ground.

The goal is a very British face. Not quite there yet...close.

The painting before starting the face.

33rd Foot tonal painting

2011-03-31T01:56:00.000-05:00

Here's the acrylic tonal painting almost complete. It's a bit overboard as a lot of folks just do what is called a "cartoon" that consists of the transferred drawing that is just brush painted without and lights or darks being noted. I'll finish it off with a very thin even tone of oils. Then the fun of painting begins.

Soldier, 33rd Regiment of Foot

2011-03-27T14:59:00.005-05:00

This 6" X 6" head and shoulders study will give me a chance to concentrate on face painting as well as painting a lot of red. Here's the basic line drawing that will be transferred to board.

Painting done

2011-03-25T14:43:00.001-05:00

I finished this up a few days ago. Despite a few frustrations I enjoyed doing this piece. Aside from a bit of glare the color in the photos is pretty close.

A face...finally

2011-03-16T14:11:00.002-05:00

It's been a chore to get the face done on this figure study. While it may not be a face only a mother could love I'm sure she could at grow to like it. I'm going to do a little more shading and highlighting after this dries. I have to teak the shako a bit too, so that should help. I also had to wipe off the collar and cuffs and hands which need to be redone.

In addition to the hair I also decided to
give the figure a mustache. I think it works.

Homestretch

2011-03-15T15:48:00.003-05:00

This little project is starting to wind down. Overall the face has been the only part that has given me some problems. Hopefully building up the forms will be the approach that finally works.

The musket is the only major part left to do.
After that it's a mater of finishing up uniform
details and completing the grass.

Slow progress

2011-03-09T19:32:00.000-05:00

After wiping off the face three times I turned my attention to the uniform. The coat is not as light as it appears in the photos. The buildings need a little touch up here and there. After the figure is complete I'll finish the grass.

A little more progress

2011-02-23T09:21:00.000-05:00

Still blocking things in although I started to tighten up some parts of the buildings. This painting is coming together really fast. It should slow down a bit once work is started on the figure.

Blocking in

2011-02-22T19:07:00.001-05:00

Here the background is being blocked in. It's quite a difference from using acrylics that's for sure. It was hard getting a decent pictue as the freshly laid oils had a bit of a sheen.

Tonal painting

2011-02-16T15:31:00.001-05:00

After transferring the drawing to the board I do a quick acrylic tonal painting. The board is then toned with oils.

Something a little different

2011-02-04T17:02:00.002-05:00

I've been toying with the idea of doing something other than an American subject, or at least a foreign subject that did not see service in the states. This figure study will represent a Sergeant of the 18th de Ligne, 1809. The inspiration for this piece comes from the work of Detaille, Meissonier, and Keith Rocco. The figure was taken from a photo of a slender reenactor that has a physical build with a period look.

The figure with the grid
it was drawn on erased.

2011-02-04T17:00:00.000-05:00

I next had to decide on a background to set the figure against. In looking through several pictures of old farm buildings and small towns in France I settled on one that would not overpower the figure. Instead of drawing the buildings in the traditional manner I did it on the computer using Google SketchUp 7. This program allows you to do 3D models of buildings, vehicles what have you. What's also neat is you also have the option of giving your drawing cast shadows.

2011-02-04T16:59:00.002-05:00

One of the challenges with this study is how to do the cast shadow for the figure so it matches that of the buildings. I colored the figure in with black using Photoshop and used that to create the cast shadow for the figure. This is not the traditional way to do this, but it does speed things up a bit.

Silhouette of the figure with it's cast shadow. It gives me a better
idea of how the shadow should look though I'll tweak it a bit.

2011-02-04T16:54:00.000-05:00

The figure drawing set against the background. This will be traced and transferred to an 8" X 10" of Ampersand board.

Redemption and Ted Williams

2011-01-07T02:06:00.006-05:00

At some point we've seen people like Ted Williams. I've seen them here in my own hometown. Years ago I sometimes walked by or stepped over people like him on my morning walk to the Art Institute. By now I'm sure a lot of you have seen or heard his story in the news. With politics and war being a constant topic it nice to see and hear a "feel good" story for a change.

Now I know this has NOTHING to do with historical art, not to mention art in general. I do think that it has a little to do with the power that any natural talent or learned skill potentially possesses, and the great changes it could bring into your life. I hope Ted with his (checkered) past behind him is able to make a successful return to his passion for radio with that "golden voice". To say he's been given the second chance of a lifetime is an understatement. Any future professional opportunities should also be backed with the support needed to prevent another downward spiral.

For those not familiar with his story check it out. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6kI_u3ho_c&feature=related

Now back to our regularly scheduled program.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T09:33:00.001-05:00

Christmas illustration done

2010-12-18T13:55:00.000-05:00

Finished just in time for Christmas. I'm not crazy about "speed painting" but it'll serve it's purpose.

Christmas is coming

2010-12-14T15:19:00.001-05:00

Which is why this thing needs to be done by the weekend. For some reason it took several attempts until I was finally satisfied with the final drawing. The finished illustration will only be about 5 X 7 and will be done in acrylics.

I created the drawing by laying a piece of tracing paper over the sketch (or scribble) of the figure. A more refined figure was then drawn using the sketch as a guide.

Tis the season

2010-11-12T02:01:00.000-05:00

I'm long overdue posting some new art. I have a few paintings at various stages of completion that need to be resumed...shortly. Since Christmas is right around the corner I feel like doing an illustration to use for an online Christmas card of sorts. I actually was going to do this last year but time was running too short. Originally the figure was going to depict an Eastern Indian dragging a small pine tree that had just been cut down. I've decided to make him a French Canadian militiaman from around the 1750's instead. Here's the rough concept of the figure (below).

I have another sketch of a French Canadian walking in the snow with a puppy running alongside him. I may add him to the figure here as a cute little touch. Here's the concept figure with some type tohelp better visualize my idea.

Next up will be a much more refined drawing that will then be transferred to a piece of board for painting.

A makeover...sort of

2010-09-02T07:56:00.001-05:00

A thought a makeover of sorts might help get me out of this slump. The drawing looks okay on the header though I'm not crazy about the look of the text. The open space above and below the text bugs me for some reason too. This is more of a work in progress as the NEW design feature on blogger is not that great IMO. It seems more complicated in some respects than the old one.

Drawing finished

2010-07-12T16:14:00.005-05:00

Here's the finished drawing. I'm going to have to study up on photographing drawings, especially those with a white background. I shot this out side and it still seems a bit dark.

In two days Ill be able to walk over the same gound that the "color episode" of the 149th took place on.

Color Corporal Henry Spayd, 149th Pa Vol. "Bucktails"

2010-07-09T13:27:00.005-05:00

I'm currently working on a pencil drawing of Color Corporal Henry Spayd of the 149th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry of Stone's "Bucktail" brigade. This drawing will be part of my display at next week's Artist Preservation Group miniature and art exhibition in Gettysburg, Pa. The APG sponsored the conservation of a flag from the 149th that will be unveiled in Gettysburg next Friday. To read about Spayed and the episode involving the colors of the 149th read HERE. Though I plan to do an oil painting of Spayed I'm going to settle for bringing the drawing instead. The Summer heat and wanting to get the painting right instead of rushed brought about the idea of bringing the drawing instead.

Here is a detail shot of the drawing. I was a bit concerned about the likeness as there is only one period photograph of Spayd that that I'm aware of. The discovery of a Grand Army of the Republic medal with Spayd in relief has me feeling a little better about his likeness.

I plan on doing more drawings and or paintings of the 149th Color Guard and the incident that happened on July 1, 1863.

Last painting of 2009

2010-01-01T09:38:00.004-05:00

I finished this yesterday which makes it the last painting of 2009. The most important thing I learned from this is that it deserves to be done larger. It was more of learning experience more than anything, being that it was my first oil.

2010-01-01T09:38:00.001-05:00

A little metal work

2009-12-15T09:41:00.005-05:00

I did a little work on the gorgets and nose ring/ornament a few days ago. There is just a color or two that needs to be added to punch it up a bit more. A little more color was added to the skin areas also. I hope to have this done by the weekend, but I know better. lol

2009-12-04T16:06:00.003-05:00

Work in progress detail of Bear in the fort

Busy busy busy

2009-12-04T15:56:00.005-05:00

My first oil painting is coming along okay. Though it's not yet finished there are a few things I'll do differently on the next one. The big thing is I'm not going to try and work so fast. In the process of painting this it's clear the subject deserves to be done larger than 6" X 6". Photographing a wet oil painting is pretty tough, so if it looks a bit funky it's because of the sheen. Only three of the fifty or more photos I took survived. So here is the unfinished painting.

I'm also putting together the first posting for my sculpting blog which should be up some time tomorrow. Fun fun fun.

Progress

2009-12-01T07:39:00.004-05:00

The small study of the Indian wearing the bearskin has been started. It's definitely different than working with acrylics. Seeing that it's my first attempt it's too soon to say I like it better than acrylics.

My sculpting blog should be active by Saturday. Though I have other projects in the latter stages of completion I really need to get this thing (the blog)going. I'll still post some step by step stuff on Planet figure and possibly Timelines, but it will not be as in depth as what will be on my blog.

North Carolina Provincial ready

2009-11-24T20:43:00.003-05:00

This one is ready for oils. This is going to be a huge switch from acrylics. The uniform will be a blue coat with red facings and blue breeches. Stay tuned for some color.

Intermission

2009-11-24T20:23:00.004-05:00

I decided to do another tonal painting while I was waiting to get back some pictures I was having processed. This is a small 6" X 6" head and shoulders study of an Eastern Native wearing a bearskin around his shoulders. I'm going to call this one "Bear in the fort". I'm looking forward to painting some metal objects as well as a face covered with warpaint. Paint starts going on this and the North Carolina Provincial this week.

PS, Don't worry that dumbo ear of his will be reworked.

Small bump in the road

2009-11-17T08:29:00.003-05:00

Unfortunately Keith Rocco's painting workshop has been postponed due to a few folks dropping out. Keith needed a minimum amount of folks to attend to make it viable and we just managed to have the minimum (I think 4-5 people) before he pulled the plug. I'm going to go on and start painting the first of two projects I had planned to take with me. The painting will be on 12" X 16" Ampersand gessoboard, which is really great stuff. This will also be my first oil painting. The subject will be a North Carolina Provincial soldier from the 1750's. Here is the in progress "cartoon" or tonal painting done in acrylics. I also plan to put in a full background with possibly a few smaller figures.

I'm also in the process of putting together some material for the first projects that will appear on my sculpting blog.

2009-11-17T08:22:00.003-05:00

A close up.

A little pick me up

2009-11-12T19:19:00.005-05:00

This is not a subject related post, it's more of a heads up. I really enjoy and appreciate folks leaving comments on my blog. I do not however need folks posting comments where they are trying to sell me Viagra. Fortunately I am not yet at the age where I need something to get my mojo back. I hope this added feature does not prevent anyone from commenting. That being said I'm adding a word verification feature to my comments section. Hopefully this will solve the problem.

Painting workshop

2009-10-21T12:54:00.005-05:00

Next month I will be attending a painting workshop being given by Historical Artist Keith Rocco. I had the pleasure of meeting Keith at the APG show in Gettysburg this past August. In addition to being one of the top Historical Artists in the country he's also the most considerate and down to earth person I've ever met. The goal is to work on two pieces over the weekend. In order to dive right into painting each artist (student) is to bring two canvases/ panels with the subject matter ready to be painted. My first subject is a North Carolina Provincial from the 1750s. We're to work no smaller than 12 X 16, which will be the largest I've ever done. That being said this is the largest figure study I've ever drawn. Instead of enlarging a small drawing an enlargement was made drawing it out on a grid. The first photo shows the drawing alongside the black and white photograph it was made from. The second photo shows the drawing head on to better show the figure's proportions. Lastly this will be my first attempt at painting in oils. I plan on doing a full report following the workshop.

2009-10-21T12:53:00.000-05:00

Moving

2009-09-17T08:02:00.003-05:00

No not me. I'm moving most, if not all of my miniature related links to my sculpting blog. What does this mean? At the least that I'm trying to get myself moving on opening this thing up officially. So if you do not see your link here don't think I went and dumped it. I'm preparing a new SCULPTING 101 project for the sculpting blog while I finish up the things that have been sitting around for sooo long.I will post an update by Sunday.

Can you hear me now?

2009-09-12T13:34:00.004-05:00

I sometimes post my stuff on a site called Wet Canvas. It's a great site with artists of various tastes and levels of technical skill. Anyway I posted a few pictures of this painting looking for feedback. I heeded the advice I was given and reworked the ear and darkened the upper eyelid. I thought the ear looked a bit funky anyway and it did not take too long to fix.

Now it's back to sculpting and preparing a drawing for a new small painting. This one might just be done in oils.

Time to work

2009-09-11T07:33:00.002-05:00

I finally finished this 6" X 6" study of a Union drummer relaxing. It was done on Ampersand Gessoboard which is really great stuff. It's basically masonite with a gessoed surface with a touch of texture. It's great stuff and is a lot stronger than the multimedia board I've been using. I hope to not only give this blog a makeover but start my miniature sculpting blog soon. I have a few projects that I'd like to start, and will once a few other get done. These are a lot closer than they were before. I know I'm slow, but I'll take a snail's pace over none at all at this point.Stay tuned.

Artist Preservation Group show

2009-08-12T08:05:00.003-05:00

I would have to say it was a good show. Given that it was the first there is plenty of room for this to grow into something bigger. It was great not only to see the 5th Alabama Battalion's flag, but see it brought back to the field where it was captured 146 years ago. For most of the people attending the show this had to be the highlight of their weekend.

Time to relax

2009-07-28T20:56:00.003-05:00

In a week we (the family) head down to Gettysburg for the Artist Preservation Group show. I'm looking forward spending some time talking shop with those I swap posts with on the net. I think it's going to be a great show and will hopefully be the first of more to come.

Though I'm easing my way back into sculpting I could not resist starting a small study. This one is on 6" X 6" gessoed Masonite. It's great stuff, that may one day partially replace the multimedia board I've been using the past few years. If I happen to finish this one I may bring it with me next week.For some reason I have a devil of a time building up the contrast I would like this to have.

146th New York Volunteer Infantry ("Gerrard's Tigers")

2009-07-08T21:42:00.002-05:00

The 146th went of to war in 1862 commanded by Colonel Kenner Gerrard, a West Point Graduate. The regiment was assigned to General Sykes' Division of the Army of the Potomac, a division composed mainly of U.S. Regulars. The 146th was attached to the only brigade of volunteers in Sykes' Division, joining the 5th NY(Duryée's Zouaves)and 140th NY(Rochester Racehorses) volunteers. When the two year term of service ended for the 5th NY, more than 300 three-year recruits were transferred to the 146th.In June of 1863 the 146th received the Zouave uniform that would replace the New York State uniform they had been wearing up to that time. It is this uniform that the regiment would be wearing during the battle of Gettysburg.The remain regiments of the brigade would not receive their Zouave uniforms until January of 1864.

When I was knocking around ideas for my donation for the Artist Preservation Group's Gettysburg show in August I settled on painting a Zouave. After seeing studies painted on a artist's wooden palette by Alphonse De Neuville and Keith Rocco, I decided to use the same for my painting surface. The palette measures 13" X 9 1/2".

2009-07-08T21:41:00.000-05:00

2009-07-08T21:40:00.000-05:00

Brunswick Grenadier, Regiment Von Riedesel

2009-06-13T17:24:00.007-05:00

This painting was inspired by a figure sculpted by Jason Whitman. Check out Jason's figure here. http://jaywhitsminiatures.blogspot.com/2007/10/brunswick-grenadierregiment-von.html I really liked the forward sense of movement given to the figure. That, along with the fact that Hessian troops just look cool. This painting was done in acrylics on 8 x 10 multimedia board. I plan to bring this to the APG show in Gettysburg this August. Acrylics continue to offer a number of challanges, with quick drying time toping the list.

2009-06-13T17:20:00.000-05:00

A close up.

A posting for May...finally

2009-05-30T18:13:00.004-05:00

This has been a terrible month as far as productivity goes. Things SHOULD be picking up pretty soon on this and my other blog that is still in limbo. I've been doodling here and there trying to come up with some ideas for a couple paintings/ illustrations I'd like to do. I think my favorite stuff comes from just scribbling out whatever comes to mind. Pictured is a very early Revolutionary War colored militia man. I'm going to do about a half dozen of these militia types and then refine the doodles and put them into a finished illustration. Given the various walks of life these men came from it should make for some interesting clothing styles and combinations.

Computer problems

2009-02-28T21:42:00.002-05:00

I've been having computer problems the past couple of days and I'm slowly finding my way back. My computer got whacked pretty good and I lost a lot of stuff that I had stored or things I was working on. I often create disks of picture folders and other projects I'm working on but did not get some of the more important things on disks before disaster struck.

My Mom the hero

2009-02-18T16:03:00.007-05:00

In conjunction with Lincoln's Birthday I had planned on doing the first of at least a few posts celebrating his 200th. This changed last Thursday when I rushed to my parent's house following a frantic call from my Mother. My Father had not only collapsed but stopped breathing. The 911 operator talked my Mom through CPR, That is after Mom (100lbs soaking wet) got Dad (200+ a little) onto the floor from a chair. The "sweet" little lady that saved her Husband with CPR quickly became the talk of ICU. Things are looking up as he was released to the step down unit next to ICU today. It turned out Dad has a large blood clot in his right lung and three smaller ones in his left. Needless to say the Docs are amazed that he survived at all. He's not totally out of the woods yet but each day is more promising. Dad is still trying to process that Mom got his heart going again until the Fire Department and Paramedics arrived. My wife always says of my Mom that dynamite comes in small packages. She's right.

The red shirt

2009-02-09T17:58:00.003-05:00

In addition to issue shirts Federal soldiers also wore various types of contract shirts in order to keep the army clothed. The figure is based on a period photograph with the Sibley tents and drum added to fill out the scene. This 8" X 10" painting was done in acrylics.

Yankee Doodle

2009-01-04T18:34:00.003-05:00

I originally did this doodle on the back of an index card. I decide to spruce it up a bit with photoshop. I should be finishing up a few miniature projects and starting a new painting soon.

Sculpting blog open...almost

2008-12-22T07:48:00.007-05:00

Now that I'm back to pushing Sculpey and putty around it's time to open up my sculpting blog. Though I do not update this one near enough as I should, lets see what happens adding a second one. You can either click on the link here or find it on the menu located on the right side of the page.

http://garyminsculpt.blogspot.com/

Gettysburg's Remmembrance Day

2008-11-27T11:18:00.004-05:00

My wife and I drove down to Gettysburg for it's annual Remembrance Day observance. This year marked the 145th Anniversary of the dedication of the Soldier's Cemetery and Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. Cold is one word that describes our four day stay at our home away from home. The parade that was held on Saturday was pretty nice. Though the authenticity of the groups varied it was impressive seeing a mass of men and women in period dress dominating a parade. This was also a chance to see the battlefield's NEW visitor's center. Though I have many mixed feelings about the whole thing I've decided to NOT comment on it. One thing that was a treat to see was the bottom of the triangular field below Devil's Den without trees. Those guys from the 1st Texas sure had a lot of open ground to cross while under the guns of Smith's battery up on Devil's Den.

2008-11-27T10:58:00.005-05:00

Here is what the Triangular Field now looks without the trees. It really gives you an idea of it's appearance during the battle, though there were leaves on the trees.

A Von Steuben Continental

2008-11-14T13:10:00.002-05:00

Though I've already painted a soldier from the 2nd Virginia, I wanted a different title. This was more of an exercise in painting large areas of color, in addition to sorting out the benefits and limitations of acrylics. The painting is 8 X 10 and is painted on colored multimedia board.

2008-11-14T12:53:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T12:07:00.002-05:00

I wanted to do an illustration but did not have time to do the one I wanted. This old sketch was in a folder of stuff I did when I was into doing gaming type art.

APG Gettysburg "blurbs"

2008-10-20T21:04:00.002-05:00

I came up with the idea of doing these mini write-ups ("blurbs" whatever that is) to be posted between information about the Artist Preservation Group's upcoming show in 2009. The first "blurb" is about the group's 2009 preservation/restoration project. Future postings will feature an illustration and write-up about relevant Gettysburg subjects.

Follow the link to the APG blog these will be posted there and not on my blog.
http://apg-newsletter.blogspot.com/

HARDTACK & COFFEE

2008-10-02T05:31:00.006-05:00

This brief step by step is for a small painting I did that will be on the Artist Preservation Group's blog. The painting is one of a series of small studies and write ups that will be posted there along with information on the upcoming APG Miniature exhibition in Gettysburg, Pa.

STEP A. All of my paintings start off as thumbnail sketches or drawings to figure out the composition. Since I already had a specific idea in mind I only did one small drawing. Then I proceeded to photograph the composition using a reproduction cup. The photos were then used to paint the items in acrylics on multimedia board.

2008-10-02T05:28:00.004-05:00

STEP B. Here is a color photograph of the composition. The cup is an accurate reproduction. Since I did not have a piece of hardtack handy I made one from foam board. I slapped some paint on it and punched in 16 holes like the real thing.

2008-10-02T05:25:00.003-05:00

STEP 2B. This black and white photograph was used to prepare the line drawing for the painting. I also use it to see where all of my lights and darks are.

2008-10-02T05:20:00.003-05:00

STEP C. The basic line drawing based on the black and white photograph. I scanned this drawing and transferred a reversed version of it to my painting surface.

2008-10-02T05:16:00.003-05:00

STEP D. Here is the finished study. I decided to paint a plain flat background verses a more realistic setting.The only drawback is that without any shadows under and around the objects they may appear to be floating.

2008-10-02T05:12:00.006-05:00

STEP D2. I decided to use Photoshop to clean up the lower left corner of the hardtack. I thought that it had a bit of a droop to it that bothered me.

Though this is not a very detailed step by step, it should give you a little insight into the process that was used for this piece. I hope to do a much more detailed sbs on a larger piece later.

Officer, American Light Infantry Battalions

2008-09-16T17:27:00.003-05:00

I finally finished the study this morning. This is the third version that finally worked. The figure represents an officer of light infantry from New Jersey. Though he is not carrying a musket the officer has his hat cocked to the left in the manner of an enlisted man to give him a bit of attitude.

Artist Preservation Group Membership drive

2008-09-10T07:22:00.003-05:00

Want to support historic preservation? Why not join the APG? There are some decent benefits not to mention a chance to win a free night at the Wyndham in Gettysburg where the APG will hold it's first show in August of 2009.

Venue change for APG Exhibition

2008-09-02T12:41:00.003-05:00

There has been a change of venue for the Artist Preservation Group's Miniature Exhibition to be held in Gettysburg, Pa on August 7-9, 2009. Check it out.
http://www.artistpreservationgroup.com/

Officer, American Light Infantry Battalions, WIP

2008-07-25T10:49:00.003-05:00

I originally was going to do this figure study some time ago, but was sidetracked. I'll continue on with some Gettysburg related subjects after getting this out of the way. This 11 X 14 acrylic painting depicts an officer of American Light Infantry. The waistcoat and overalls (gaitered trousers) are the only parts that are close to being done. I like to block in the main areas before moving on to the actual finish work.

2008-07-25T10:48:00.001-05:00

2008-07-25T10:47:00.001-05:00

APG show in Gettysburg

2008-07-10T00:13:00.005-05:00

On August 7-9, 2009 Gettysburg, PA will be the place to be. The Artist Preservation Group will host it first Miniature Exhibition at the Eisenhower Hotel & Convention Center. The rate is $110 a night for double ocupancy.The rate is good for one week prior to and after the show. This exhibition is unlike any other in the country as the proceeds of the APG go to the preservation of historic sites and artifacts.

A few improvements

2008-06-04T15:15:00.008-05:00

There were a couple of things I decided to add or improve on the painting. The right eye (or left if your looking at the painting) seemed to be smaller and sitting higher than the other. I also put a bit of shadow behind the knife and lightened the shadow on the shirt that's across from the hand holding the rifle. Now I can call this done.

2008-06-04T15:14:00.000-05:00

Liberty Hall Volunteers

2008-06-02T17:29:00.007-05:00

This study represents Company I, 4th Virginia Infantry. The company members were largely students from Virginia's Washington College. They were known as The Liberty Hall Volunteers taken from the name of the college from 1776 to 1798. The uniform was worn by the company at the Battle of Manassas in 1861. Like the other "mini" studies this one is 5 X 7 on multimedia board.

I'm not sure how I feel about this piece. There are some things I really like but I do not feel the same way about it as I do the Union soldier study done before this.

Union soldier

2008-05-01T13:34:00.004-05:00

Here's another quickie (3-4 days) 5 X 7 acrylic painting on board. This one is based on a period studio photograph of a Union soldier. I decided to have a little fun and put him in a civilian shirt and plaid cravat. I think it helped to add a little splash of color to a somewhat dull subject. This piece was really practice for a few Civil War paintings I'm going to be working on for the APG show in Gettysburg next year.

Ansbach-Bayreuth Jaeger, 1777-83,

2008-04-20T12:55:00.006-05:00

For me inspiration comes from many sources. It could be a photograph or even a period painting or drawing. The inspiration for this 5 X 7 acrylic "mini" study comes from a scratchbuilt miniature by Jason Whitman. There are about 3-4 of Jason's pieces (so far) that will one day become studies or paintings. Jason has a knack for depicting Revolutionary and Civil War subjects giving them all that period look.Check out Jason's work I'm sure you'll agree with me.

http://jaywhitsminiatures.blogspot.com/

Massachusetts Grand American Army, 1775

2008-03-29T19:59:00.002-05:00

Here is the completed painting, just finished about a half hour ago. I wish I had something to post between both postings of the painting as it's a bit annoying seeing the same picture twice with very little difference between the two.

Latest figure study WIP

2008-03-15T13:55:00.002-05:00

It feels good to post something, even something not yet finished. This study is represents one civilian turned soldier who helped hold Breed's and Bunker Hill in 1775, which went on to force the British to evacuate Boston for good in 1776. I have to finish the grass and fowling piece the soldier carries before it's done. The trees started out green and evolved into Autumn trees. The painting was done in acrylics and measures 8 X 10.

Mini Photoshop projects and getting off my butt

2008-03-14T15:10:00.003-05:00

I've been fiddling around with Photoshop and do these little projects from time to time. I designed these blog headers for two folks that are linked on my blog. I've designed about three for Jason, one of which is pictured here. Matt does not know about his. The parachuting solders in the background of his is actually one photo duplicated twice with the planes "erased" in one copy.

This past year and a half have been horrible in terms of me getting stuff done. Though I'm getting a painting done every so often my sculpting has all but come to a halt. I'd like to open my Miniature Sculpting blog but want to do it with something new. Having said that, I feel the need to finish what few things are almost done before beginning something new. Okay guys let the suggestions and opinions fly, I need to get this other blog underway. Thanks in advance.

Ramblings

2008-03-03T08:09:00.003-05:00

I'm slowly (big surprise) making my way through the Drawing on the right side of the brain book. More than anything I'm curious as to how the lessons will (if at all) affect my work. I have a 8 X 10 figure study that I'm working on in order to try and keep my painting relatively fresh. The main thing that is a little disheartening about historical art/illustration is the small number of folks that are interested in viewing, commenting and or buying it. Though I paint for myself first, it is nice to have someone to share it with. I'm also on a steady diet of looking at the work of other artists, especially those that are of the "painting a day" variety. There are some exceptionally talented painters doing everything from landscapes to still lifes. There is not one that I know of that does historical subject matter. I think given the work that is being done today I'd be hard pressed to sell a painting of a revolutionary war soldier on Ebay. On the other hand, paintings of glass bottles and peanut butter & jelly sandwhiches seem to sell really well. Some thought is being given to possibly jumping on the bandwagon if for anything else to make a few coins while I work on improving the technical side of my art as well as it's historical accuracy. Anyway I wanted something to post and this is the feeble result.

Drawing on the right side of the brain

2008-02-13T20:51:00.004-05:00

When I was in high school my Dad bought Drawing on the right side of the brain. Though I did not complete the entire book, my drawings improved dramatically, especially in drawing likenesses. I've recently corresponded with Historical Arrtist/ Illustrator David Rickman. David has done a number of coloring books in addition to work for the National Park Service. In addition to his style I also admire his meticulous attention to detail and accuracy. In one of his Emails He suggested I give this book a try. Fortunately I still have my copy and will be starting tomorrow. Here is a review I found on the book.

Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain is based on the premise that the left and right hemispheres of the brain process information in very different ways. While this theory has become somewhat outmoded, it is still a useful model to explain the way we function. The right-side concept is referred to continually throughout the book, which focuses extensively on the 'how and why' behind the mental process of drawing, rather than simply demonstrating the techniques.

Right Brain VS Left Brain
In essence, the 'left brain' is logical, rational using words to describe concepts and able to manipulate abstract ideas, numbers and the concept of time. The right brain, in contrast, takes a wholistic approach, sensing relationships and patterns, tends to be intuitive and irrational, and has no sense of time. While some suggest that theories about brain function have moved on from this 'hemispherical' notion, it is still a useful model for how we manipulate information in practice. The first chapters of Drawing on the Right Side are largely devoted to explaining the left/right model, and explaining its relevance to drawing - or more importantly to SEEING. The stages of development in children's drawing are explored, and the impact of the persistence of the childish symbol-system discussed.

I strongly suggest this book to those that feel they can't draw at all or that well. You'll be surprised at the results if you follow the different exercises. A huge thanks goes out to David for his comments and suggestions.

Militia officer sketch

2008-01-27T17:34:00.000-05:00

Here's the subject of my next painting. I also decided to finally include other partial figures in the background. The size of the painting was originally going to only be 5 X 7. The size has since grown to 11 X 14. I'm looking forward to working with larger brushes. I may do a half size color study to help avoid obstacles that may come up with a larger piece.

Lt William Falconer, Grenadier Company, 15th Regiment of Foot, 1777

2008-01-25T07:53:00.001-05:00

To the best of my knowledge there is no surviving miniature portrait of Falconer. This was a fun piece to do.In addition to the great looking hunting sword I was able to play with reconstructing a simpler uniform that he very well could have worn.The only thing I took a bit of license with was positioning the sword a little higher up on the body. An inscription on the throat of the scabbard helped me decide what I wanted Falconer's face to look like.

"The Honorable Lieut. William Falconer of the 15th Regt. of Foot Commanded by Lieut. Colonel Bird was killed in the action at Brandywine Sept. 11th 1777 in the 19th year of his age."

Miniature portrait

2008-01-21T08:56:00.000-05:00

While I'm still working on the preliminary stuff for a larger project I wanted to keep my painting skills (haha) fresh. I decided to to a 5 X 7 portrait of a flank company officer of the 15th Regiment of Foot, c.1777. My inspiration comes from several military and civilian miniature portraits done during the 18th century. Most examples were painted on ivory and are round or oval in shape. The first drawing shows the thumbnail sketch which I then carefully traced and refined. The second drawing shows a larger and more refined example of the smaller cleaned up drawing. A follow up post will show the finished portrait along with some background information on the subject.

Sneek peek

2008-01-18T11:00:00.000-05:00

Here is one of a series of notes I'm putting together that will be used for determining the final look for some figures studies I'll be doing for a Revolutionary war project. I really like doing this type of stuff. Though there are not a lot of notes here I usually also list the book, article, or pictorial reference the sketches are based on.

44th Regiment of Foot

2008-01-17T00:15:00.000-05:00

I just completed my painting of a Corporal from the 44th Regiment of Foot, circa 1755. I'm still working on painting reds. The most difficult part is getting the highlights just right. aside from trying to master acrylics I'm really working on getting the weapons and equipment just right. More 18th century stuff is on the way, in addition to a number of Gettysburg related subjects.

Christmas illustration

2007-12-16T12:47:00.000-05:00

I decided to do another Chrismas illustration as last year's snowman was a fun little break from whatever I was doing at that time. This year it's Valley Forge with a little twist. The painting is on a 8" X 8" piece of multimedia board and was done in acrylics.

A small side project

2007-12-07T06:58:00.000-05:00

While work on the next painting continues I've also taken up a small side project. I'm working on a set of Woodland Indian body painting schemes. These will be part of the instructions for a Bushy Run vignette that is going to be released in the near future. This is a fun little project that easily could have taken a life of it's own. This figure is one of three that I'm doing. The scheme represents a man that has his body painted red with black stripes and dots.