“I wish you could see this light that surrounds you in the night and I almost woke you up”.

Stephen Kellogg and his skilled band held the Ark audience captivated last week.

“I Almost Woke You Up”  written to his sleeping daughters, was among many beautiful original songs they performed.

Kinetic musical magic filled the room.

It isn’t the first time Stephen Kellogg held an audience with his smooth voice and guitar strumming hands.

Theatre spectators sat spellbound during his inspiring 2013 Ted Talk on Job Satisfaction. Click here for 19 min well invested.

SK’s TourdeForty concluded in Boston this weekend (via Instagram)

“This whole tour is my midlife crisis move. I want to show my kids that dreams do come true and art is a viable job if you work at it. I want to show myself that the best is still ahead. I want to give you nights of music and storytelling that will take you out of the darkness that is our daily news. In short I want to fuse my heart with yours.”

He continues,

“I’ve asked my musical friends in this formation of the #SouthWestNorthEast for help with this task. They have responded with talent, dedication & passion.”

Art is a viable job, thou few express this with such absolute sincerity.

Thanks for doing so, Mr. Kellogg.

~

Jackson Pollock answered best. ”My whole Life.”

Thou we discuss it among ourselves, it’s the most difficult question Artist’s face from the public.

Lee Humphries president of ThinkingApplied.com, describes artistic process eloquently: He writes

“…At its core, artistic process blends emotion with the disciplined pursuit of quality.” When you think of creative process on these terms, a question of timing doesn’t seem applicable.

“How long did it take you to paint that?” is stress inducing for artists to answer because:

1.  Establishing value of art/ people often equate with time.

2.  Time in execution does not mean time of creation. ( ie. We may do pre-paintings, studies and apply internal puzzle work first, which may take years)

3. The public’s association of professionalism with efficiency.

~Companies can rise or fall depending on their efficiencies. Big industry depends on it. Associating creation of a handmade original with any other kind of manufacturing process is a dangerous road. And Artists know it.

4. We don’t keep track.

~Imagine making a complicated recipe, then stopping every time you add an ingredient to list the time each step took. It would be labour intenstive and incredibly distracting from your focus. Now imagine this process is a hundred times more difficult than the recipe, because there is no template or formula.

~ We often work on several pieces at once to varying degrees. It would be nearly impossible and inefficient to track time.

“How long did it take to paint that?” may be followed by “Artists only work when they feel like it, or when inspiration moves them”.

Yet, that simply isn’t the case.

Many put in long days, months, years, some with near obsessive rigid schedules. One artist responded, “how long did it take me to paint that?.. it took me 5 years of nervous breakdowns”.  (Read Picasso’s comment and about toil  here.)

Artists who Thrive, state “Artists don’t trade their time for money. We trade value for money. And what value is that? Emotion.”

From Artist Lori McNee “ART in all its forms )(is an accumulation of knowledge. Each painting, novel, poem )( is the embodiment of the artists lifelong experiences, emotions, education, and intuition.

To Lori’s comment I would add: this accumulation of knowledge and emotions are a form of communication to humanity.

Art can emotionally reflect a viewer’s experience which they possibly couldn’t articulate themselves. That’s powerful.

Artists understand when asked this question, the public is either curious or searching for a way to validate the art.

This validation can be assured with quality of work, intention, uniqueness, originality, collective following, and, the spark of emotional connection.

The purpose of art is not a rarified, intellectual distillate – it is life, intensified, brilliant life.~ Alain Arias-Mission

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Creative ideas are often born not in the boardroom, but the shower.

Why? Creative ideas flow while in a relaxed state.

(Click highlighted text for further cool reading!)

New 14×18 oil

Brilliant minds and artists have sourced their creative slumber stream for centuries.

Einstein said “The greatest scientists are artists as well”. If anyone understood the mysteries of the creative mind, it was Einstein, who’s “insight did not come from logic or mathematics. It came, as it does for artists, from intuition and inspiration.” He thought in visuals before he ‘found the words’.

 new 8×8 oil

Quality sleep can improve your memory and make you more creative.

While quality sleep is ideal, you can also nap like Einstein and Dali to access creative rhythm.

 New morning paintings

Artist Robert Genn suggested painting before a “morning cup of joe”.

Routine can be essential to an artist’s productivity. Like a snow globe on a bright sunny day, it’s also good to shake things up to release the sparkle. Recently I have been experimenting with the morning creating concept.

So far, this exercise is quite productive, revving up my brush and quieting my mind.

To spark your creative juice, a few handy tips I have found along the way.

Regardless of your profession:

• Keep a journal bedside for instant morning thoughts, visuals, ideas. Write in point form, key words.
• Work in natural light only, or with as little artificial light as possible. Dress comfortably, or better yet, if possible stay in pj’s.
• Work before breakfast or coffee. I discovered it’s nice to have a warm cup of water with a drop of lemon.
• Write three pages of ‘gibberish’. Julia Cameron author of The Artists Way overcame writers block by writing a series of morning pages daily. Task is to write anything coming to mind, non stop, no punctuation. Julia used this method to purge negativity, and open up ‘space’ for creative thought.

 Artists:

• Have boards etc prepped the night before, so you can begin immediately in the morning.
• Paint non-stop, no fixing mistakes.
• Extra challenge: use left over paints on palette from previous day.
• Thou I prefer to work with music on, for these tasks silence is key.
• For those who usually have electronics nearby, leave the phone/laptop, watch, clocks etc outside the studio. If you are short for time, set the oven timer in the kitchen.
• Time Trial: I love my breakfast and morning run. For me, this exercise becomes a speedy time trial.

If these options aren’t available to you, it’s been proven pacing sparks creativity. Pace in your office, or outdoors, which will increase creative juices considerably.

You can even pace in the shower. :0)

~ “Nap time, the shut down that reboots” Robert Genn

P.S  New work will be titled, I just haven’t gotten around to ‘finding my words yet’. :)) To purchase work, please email. Thank you!

Brand recognition is a strong element in business today.

It’s advantageous if brands are unique and consistent with a clear mission, because we are inundated daily with information.

This is also true in the art world.

“Meadow” New 11×14

Beyond an Artists Signature style, branding may encompass original and recognizable features of their art, personality, or how they work. ( ie: showmanship, tools, unique materials, etc)

Below is my favourite painting by a certain famous artist. Recognize the work?

You may not, because “The Old Fisherman” was painted in 1895 before Picasso evolved to his more recognizable style, founding the method of Cubism.

Landscape painting is highly competitive, perhaps the easiest genre to be lost in the crowd. “You landscapers are a dime a dozen” one dealer told me. Being distinguishable in the sea of thousands is one of the biggest issues professional artists face.

That’s why many are devoting time and attention to their brand.

Last month a new client strolled the studio. “It’s difficult to recognize all of these works were done by one artist. This must be hard for your brand?”

What followed was one of the most exciting conversations I have had in the studio.

By putting me on the spot, I was able to focus on his perspective as a collector and avid supporter of original art. He’s given me insight what may be obvious to me, may not be to the public.

My response was:

1)  I can connect with my subject on a deep emotional level in a short period of time.

I paint a variety of landscapes having been fortunate to live in some of the most beautiful places in Canada as an adult. We were raised in lovely remote provincial parks growing up. Having this unique relationship with the land since I was a child has given me the adaptability to form a very quick connection to natural spaces everywhere.

2) Colour.

I have never used a colour wheel, so my palette is uncommon. I mix all colours by instinct. You will find the use of Cad yellow’s in nearly every single painting. I use a combination of at least 3 yellows to achieve a golden effect.

3). Fresh Air/ Plien Air feel

Thou my technique changes because I use a variety of tools, bare hands, brushstroke in the work, I am told it embodies the raw freshness of outdoor work. Vibrant colour, thick strokes, bold design help achieve this.

4) The largest focal point brought to my attention by dealers, collectors, and the reason I was chosen for the boreal expedition is the way I paint light. I am told this is the work’s outstanding feature.

New logo look highlights the play on my name ~Sunrise~. click here.

In the spirit of branding, I am working with my friend Dayna,  for the “Dawn” art brand, so exciting! Watch for updates in the future!

~Note:  “People say your work is similar to the Group of Seven, I disagree. Seeing their work, I feel cold and traces of (distress)? It makes me want to put a sweater on. I see happy warmth in your work.You don’t have an angry bone in your body, I just feel.. happy”. new Client.

Gazing at waters edge on a summer’s eve, sunset radiating above and below is a magical place to be.

Cushioned between sky and lake bathed in warm milky glow causes one great pause to savour.

.

Perhaps for you, years end ignites reflection and consideration of the year ahead. In your path of ponderings and pursuits I offer wisdom gained from a professional life of creativity.

• Be brave.
• Seek knowledge from children and elders
• Truthful self criticism and self compassion are both necessary for growth
•  Use your skills for good
• What you reflect back to the world is your legacy
•  Your suffering does not define you but how you cope with suffering does.
•  Betterment of humanity & the planet is true longevity
• Make three people smile every day, including a complete stranger
• Riches are found in love we give freely
• Begin and complete each day with gratitude.
•  Offer thoughtful compliments, hearts grow lighter receiving one.
• Maturity may be found stepping outside your comfort zone
• Grow a thick skin, lighten up and laugh.
•  Don’t miss the sunrise. (Mom’s advice).

Without your support collecting and sharing the work neither art nor growth of this artist would come to be. With gratitude I thank you.

Wishing you wellness & peace always. d

“Every sunset brings the promise of a new dawn.”Ralph. W Emerson

~ Note: To purchase original paintings on this post & online gallery, please email me dawn@dawnbanning.com ~ all work is for sale.

I will be in the studio until Dec. 23, returning Jan 20.

“Can you help me?”

A medical illustrator approached me during opening night at my exhibit. She desperately wanted to paint but her attempts had failed miserably, she explained. She wished for a sense of freedom in painting.

Feeling her frustration, my heart went out to her.New~ Waterlilies 22×28 oil on canvas

“Do you wear reading glasses?”

“Yes, of course.” she said.

“Take them off.” I suggested.

Startled doubt cross her face. Understanding, I gently laid my hand on her arm.

“No glasses and trust yourself.”

~work in progress~both  unfinished~

To see the big picture, we may need to focus less on minute details.

Improved ‘vision’ arises with blurry eyesight.

Clarity, friends, arrives in all forms.

 ~NEWS-

Big new work/ small work.

Big work ~ in progress..two five foot canvas’. The lake reflection is a challenge I have been wanting to tackle for awhile, exciting to be finally immersed in it. The northern Ontario piece is inspired by my friend Julia Hargreaves paddling photo. It’s just begun, but has a great feel already.

Small work. Inspired by the 50 project paintings I created 4 new little pieces.( see details below images)

Keeping with the 50 theme this year- oil on canvas within 5×7 mat frame ( poly wrapped) 50$ CAD. Shipping 2$ within Canada. Original gift idea. :0)

2016 pricing in effect thru December.

Stop in to see the amazing December show at Hambleton Galleries in Kelowna! Lots of wonderful gift ideas and incredible array of art. The Hambleton folk are as helpful & kind as they come.

A wonderful aspect of my job is being privy to artist’s personal narratives, often not stories the public seeks to hear.

Yet in these truths laid bare, I find as much inspiration as their amazing work.

They are touching human stories of evolvement and overcoming insurmountable obstacles.

 New “Canoe & Paddle” 16×20 oil

The origin and path of an artist may offer accounts not fraught with mysticism, but rich in resilience, admirable work ethic, creative evolution, and endurance.

Their stories offer hope.

Audiences experiencing his music on the world stage, “Say I have a Divine gift” he spoke gently cradling his teacup. “I believe this has to do with practicing 8 hours a day.”

Music was an avenue to win parents attention and compete with older brothers. “I was driven to excel in competition with them.” It wasn’t until years later he found his creative voice in the guitar.

 New Collection for Hambleton Galleries.

By the time he won the most prestigious writing award in Canada he had been writing for more than 15 years. “They say it’s a calling,” he said with a soft laugh. “Maybe, but I didn’t have a natural knack for writing.” His stories share truths in history designed to better humanity. “I became a writer because I love to read and I found the power of story”. It was a decade of University education, mentor workshops and countless drafts before the award winning book came to fruition.

 “Sun” finally realized & complete.

She found her passion in clay at a weekend workshop in the midst of a successful engineering career. It wasn’t easy learning her craft. She confessed, “I cried the first few years”.

Many creative discoveries are made later in life.

handcrafted chair/ ottoman by Marc

A bright mathematical ergonomist with no creative hobbies witnessed a show featuring a master craftsman. Inspired by beauty and ergo appeal, he decided to build a chair. Thou he hadn’t worked with tools & wood, he evolved skill over years of dedicated work.

Often the case in pursuit of the arts, time & labour are richly rewarded. His creativity awakens as he develops designs fusing ergonomic intelligence and esthetic beauty.

 Marc Banning table

Thou working artist’s pathways vary, they often share a common private grievance, when their hard earned skill is dubbed ‘natural’, ‘effortless talent’. Most are embarrassed to share this with the public. “If we tell them our path was far from direct, or it is hard work, maybe they won’t buy it/collect it/publish it/ play my music.”

The real fear?

“Perhaps it will no longer be special to them.”

 Study 8×10

I encourage artists to share a glimpse of their real journey. Others can apply these lessons to their own personal struggles and pursuits.

It’s a fine line, another artist told me. “Speak of hardships and we come across as ungracious. That simply isn’t true. We are grateful for the work, our fans & supporters.”

Artists with longevity have a healthy dose of grit. They are tenacious with aspiration so deep it over- rides misconceptions, labels, including very negative assumptions. This is as remarkable and inspiring as their work.

Perhaps the ethereal mystery lies not in so-called talent, but in this deeply rooted sense of purpose. It’s in their continual pursuit to capture the essence we feel in their work.

It’s in their bravery.

Humanity united in the midst of greatness in music, story, and art is powerfully transcending. It can open our minds to possibility and our hearts to great love.

~

“Dawn’s canvas’s evoke a world alive with motion, resonating with life that reaches up out of the soil to the sunlight. Her images invite us to celebrate this world, to imagine that which lies on it’s outer edges, and to participate in a world moving in light” D.L

~ All work is for sale & available for purchase. I am so excited about the new work developing! New small collection will be unveiled at the Hambleton December Exhibit in Kelowna BC. Thanks to all the folks at Hambleton for their devoted work.

Canadian history is rich with canoe stories and it remains an important feature of Canadian identity.

First Nations crafted birch bark canoes for transportation. Later, Voyagers used the canoe for fur trading.

Our Prime Minister has been spotted in a canoe more than once.

Among my Canadian collectors, 95% have paddled or ridden in a canoe. The other 5% just aren’t old enough yet.

My Dad was at the helm the first time I sat as a child in a canoe. I was wonderstruck by the unique visual perspective. It was awe inspiring, perched below the water line, lake expanse before me, shorelines shimmering in my sightline, gentle water’s echo surrounding us.

“Early Morning” new 24×30 oil

Many Canadians share canoe stories rich with transforming experiences, bonding friendships, and family history.

I wasn’t surprised Kyra Paterson’s amazing photo of Algonquin was taken on her first paddling adventure with her daughter. (click on highlight text to read Kyra’s post)

Kyra Paterson photo

Thou I rarely ask to paint from another’s photos, hers begged to be explored with a brush. Thanks to Kyra for graciously sharing.

Her photo sparked expedition reflections paddling in the misty morning light, and as a child with my family.

 Dawn & Joanie McGuffin

 People often ask what feeds the art, what inspires it, where do the ideas come from?

“So much of what we do as artists is a combination of personal experience and imagination, and how that all creeps into your work is not so linear. “Diana Krall

Elements that fuel the work can be physical, emotional, intellectual, historical. Influences may be found in daily experiences and interactions, other art forms, like music.

Influences that brought “Early Morning” to life include:

Kyra’s heartwarming story & photo.( above).

The universal love Canadians share of paddling and personal trip experiences/ photos below.

Palette inspired by yesterday’s misty morning nature walk. ( with nature friends) and autumn prairie hills of home last month.

Music in the studio for this painting included:

“Huntsville” Ken Yates

“Serenity and Light” Our Abandon

“What a Wonderful World” Louis Armstrong

“Storms Never Stay” sung by my Dad.

“This Gift” Glen Hansard

“Let the Mystery In” Clarence Bucaro

“Fields of Gold” Eva Cassidy.

~

Looking for a paddling experience in northern Canada?Highly recommended Canoe North is an award winning expedition company recognized as A Canadian Signature Experience.

~“You need not leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. You need not even listen, simply wait, just learn to become quiet, and still, and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked. It has no choice; it will roll in ecstasy at your feet.”  F. Kafka

 New “Clouds” oil on canvas series.

Experts say the human species is ‘young’ enough to recognize our original home, the wilderness. Perhaps this is why even the most non nature buff will feel a sense of peace basking in a sunset, or hearing an ocean’s voice. “C” 6in x6in

Wilderness isn’t just a balm to our soul, it improves our memory, and intelligence. Exercising outside likely doubles the benefits. We are 50% more creative after spending time outdoors. Our heartbeats slow, and blood pressure drops when in nature. Even viewing images of nature can inspire this reaction. “L” 6in x 6in

It may be why millions are spent on ‘nature sound’ playlists, and wilderness photos coupled with motivating quotes are displayed on walls around the world. We humans have a deep emotional, even spiritual connection to nature. “O” 6in x6in

 Painting is finding that essence, and breath of life.

The art I create isn’t about self-expression. It’s absorbing energy in nature, offering it back to you. Sharing a primitive kinship in natures wonder without limits. “U” 6in x6in

Why don’t I include people in landscape paintings?

I do.

I put you there.

Nature art is an open invitation to all of humanity, without agenda. “D” 6in x6in

Have you witnessed visitors in an art museum of diverse cultures and demographics respond similarly to art? It’s an amazing thing, this connection. “S” 6in x6in

The new series celebrates humanity, art & nature connection. Each 6×6 canvas is available for collection individually, or by 2, 3 or 4, but not as a set entirely.

Know that someone, somewhere in the world, will have a selection of this scene as collective. The series reaffirms, in some small, but possibly powerful way, we are all part of a whole.~

No man is an island / Entire of itself / Every man is a piece of the continent / A part of the main. John Donne.~

Each 6×6 canvas shares at title, individualized by a letter. 300.oo $ each.