Can you hear me now?

Talking on the cellphone is such a commonplace (and some might say annoying) act that one would think that it would be the last subject for a painting. But in real life it somehow allows the bystander to discreetly observe the person, maybe even eavesdrop on the conversation, and capture an intimate smile or laughter which he or she didn't mean to share with the rest of the world.


On the phone
8 x10 inches, oil on Masonite

Waiting for summer

When I look at this painting, it transports me to the beach; I could feel the summer sun shining, and the sound and smell of the salty waves crashing onto shore.

At the beach
12 x 16 inches, oil on canvas board

Missing my pants

Painting the fingers for me always takes a while. Although hands and fingers may seem less significant than the face (in regards to figure paintings), they can actually tell alot about the subject. The way they're clenched nervously or opened loosely, close to the torso with both palms on the thighs or an elbow rests languidly on the armrest is all part of the body language.
The bedsheet in the original picture had floral prints, but I left them out as it would take too much time.


Too bright
16 x 20 inches, oil on canvas board

Hairdryer gone wild

Gone with the wind
12 x 16 inches, oil on stretched canvas

Paintings in progress - March '08

I'm currently working on three new paintings. As I have to wait for the first layer to dry before I put on the final touches (highlights, corrections, details such as fingers and lips), I usually work on a few paintings at a time. It takes about 1-2 weeks for a thin layer of oil painting to completely dry.
I just moved to a new place; I'm renting a room in a friend's house. So I've been painting in the backyard! Fresh air, natural light... but you have to watch out for bugs getting stuck on the wet canvas.

Thanks for coming!

My first ever art show went really well! It was a beautiful albeit cool evening so everyone came in their stylish winter boots and scarves. Lots of people attended and many paintings were sold. The most popular painting of the evening is Tibetan Monk, followed by Morning Ritual and Back.

Thanks to everyone who showed up and gave me their support, encouragement and love! I am truly blessed and grateful to have such a supportive and loyal group of friends. See you at the next show!

Art show this Saturday!

The gallery is on the north side of Santa Monica Blvd. near Beverly Glen (Century City area). Street parking in front, on the streets behind the gallery or in the neighborhood south of Santa Monica Blvd.

The reception will be in the back patio, so dress warmly.