A MASTER COPY OF ALPHONSE MUCHA'S "CLIO"

 So, picture this: I'm on a wild exploration journey, diving deep into the universe of Alphonse Mucha, a true legend in my book. As I wandered through his masterpieces, I stumbled upon this gem of an image that sparked an artistic itch in me – could I recreate it? Challenge accepted.

Now, have you ever had music hit you so hard, you're practically frozen in time? No words, just this intense surge of emotion that locks you in a state of pure elation? Well, that's exactly what happened when I locked eyes on this illustration. There's this inexplicable "something" – an emotional symphony – that reaches out and grabs you. His expression, the elegance of his hands, and even the way he seems to float on air – it's like Mucha orchestrated a visual masterpiece that refuses to be ignored.

From the subtle toss of his hair to those playful clouds dancing around him, and don't even get me started on that artistic drapery wizardry – each brushstroke is a note in a grand symphony that has left me absolutely awestruck. It's like holding your breath, as if exhaling might mean missing a stroke of genius. Ever listened to Mozart or Vivaldi? It's that kind of attention-demanding brilliance that sweeps you into its embrace, leaving behind your worries like old news. For a brief, wonderful moment, it's just you and the sublime.

Oh, and guess what? I've got the grand unveiling coming up – a YouTube video showing  how i created it. So stay tuned, my creative compadres, it's about to be one heck of a ride! 🎨🎶

 

MUCHA AND SO MUCH MORE

I ran across this great site that not only has a ton of information on Mucha but has also a great deal of insightful information on another artist that might interest you. Take a look!

https://poulwebb.blogspot.com/2013/04/alphonse-mucha-part-10.html?spref=tw

 

SITTING BY THE DUNE

Originally posted on my website: 4/20/2022 

Ever have those "whoops, I forgot to upload" moments? Yep, I'm guilty too, and this right here is Exhibit A. As I dive into a little artistic introspection, I've come to realize something intriguing. Some of my all-time faves are those babies that practically leap onto the canvas, no sweat required. And this creation right here? Oh, it's definitely in that cool club.

Ready for the good stuff? Brace yourself for some close-ups that'll give you an insider's look at the magic. But hey, the party doesn't stop there. If you're up for a virtual hangout, I've got a little video waiting for you over at: [insert that super long Instagram link you've got there].

So, there you have it – a sneak peek into the world of "I-forgot-to-upload-but-I've-got-something-cool-to-make-up-for-it." Dive in, enjoy, and let's keep the artistic vibes rolling!

 

SMART COOKIE

Originally posted on my website: 4/20/2022 

I had the privilege of taking these pictures of a young attorney graduating this spring. Her future is bright!

The pictures were again a challenge as the day was cold for April. Francesca was a trooper and a total joy to work with. She brought that energy and attitude you can't fake. If you know of anyone looking for a photoshoot, please let them know about me! 

Thank you

https://www.instagram.com/carlos_taylor_photography/

~Carlos

VALUE SCALE STUDY

original posted on my website: 3/27/2022 

So, here's the scoop: I was itching to level up my game on the whole values front. You know, that one aspect that often slips under the radar amidst the artistic hustle. In a quest to give it the attention it deserves, I embarked on a little creative experiment.

My master plan? To tackle an image that would make me confront the very values I've been neglecting. Because here's the kicker: when you start dancing with colors, some of those sneaky hues can totally mess with your value game – making things either lighter or darker. Sneaky, right? But guess what? There's a trick up my sleeve: converting the image to black and white, like your personal artistic time machine. And get this, your phone's got your back for this one.

So, there you have it, my strategic move to sharpen my values game, brought to you straight from my creative headquarters. Feel free to adopt this trick and give your art the value makeover it deserves!

 

THE SKETCH THAT BECAME A PAINTING

 I had a simple plan: whip up a quick sketch on a board for a study. Now, here's where things get interesting – that study turned out to be more captivating than the actual painting it was supposed to prep for. Go figure.

Here's the scoop: I duked it out with that larger painting for a solid year. No matter what I did, it just wasn't clicking. So, I made a call – I packed up the struggle bus and moved on. But you know what? This little study? It earned a spot on the wall.

Funny how life goes, right? What was meant to be a warm-up ended up stealing the spotlight. I liked it so much that I gave it the royal treatment – framed and all, now gracing my living space. A reminder that sometimes the unexpected surprises are the ones that stick around. 

 

DC POWER-COUPLE

I was hired by a great couple to take some engagement pictures in Washington DC. We had a great time because they brought a very positive energy. The funny thing about the photoshoot was it was raining and quite cold for the time of year. I had to fix a ton of issue in post and the magic of it is that you can't tell. 

IT WAS JUST GOING TO BE A SKETCH...

Originally posted in my website: 3/23/2022 

Alright, let's dive into the epic saga of this painting adventure. At the outset, I had this genius plan to knock out a "All Prima" masterpiece in one heroic sitting. You know, the kind where you flex your artistic muscles and declare, "Done and dusted!" But, plot twist, time had a good laugh at my expense. Before I could say "proportions and values," I found myself in a labyrinthine quest to nail down those elusive elements. Did I conquer 'em? Well, they're on speaking terms at least, if not best friends forever.

But here's the gem of it all: the final piece isn't a robotic photocopy of reality. Nope, it's my own spin on things. Now, don't get me wrong, if I had an eternity to spare, I might just conjure up a masterpiece that'd make folks question their own existence. But, hey, that's not the name of the game for me.

Imagine my sketchbook as this experimental playground where I'm tossing around ideas like confetti. This time, I went for a more stripped-down color palette – think primary colors having a sophisticated soirée with white, while black sat this one out. But you know what? I'm thinking of giving black a VIP pass to the next bash, just to see how it shakes things up.

Drumroll, please! Behold, my latest artistic escapade, fresh from the creative oven. It's like trying to tame a wild stallion while juggling flaming torches – equal parts thrilling, a tad unpredictable, and without a doubt, one heck of a ride.

 

SKETCHBOOK ENTRY

Originally posted on my website: 12/13/2021 

I initiated this sketchbook with the intention of exploring a myriad of ideas and mediums, aligning with my perception of the quintessential sketchbook's purpose. However, within this creative journey, there are moments when a creation materializes that compels me to pause and recognize the possibility of a significant breakthrough. The present instance is undoubtedly one of those remarkable junctures.

In the pursuit of this artistic endeavor, I employed household paint to both prime the paper and eradicate the formidable expanse of blank white. Subsequently, I employed colored pencils to outline the composition before wielding oil paints directly onto the surface, unassisted by any mediums. My choice to forego additives was driven not only by their inherent toxicity but also by a curiosity to ascertain whether I could manipulate the paint devoid of supplementary agents. To my delight, this approach yielded exceptional results. The tactile experience of manipulating the paint and surmounting the challenges it presented was immensely gratifying.

Throughout my artistic voyage, I consistently strive to attain a harmonious equilibrium in my creations, ensuring that my portrayals of nudes transcend mere eroticism, instead embodying a profound reverence for the exquisite interplay of form and beauty.

 

I TRAVELLED TO FINLAND 

In 2021, I had the opportunity to visit Turku in Finland. I know what you are thinking, I thought Turku was its own country, and you are thinking of Turkey. I was confused as well because I have never heard of the town before. While there, I had to visit the local museum to educate myself in the local art scene. There were several contemporary art works which were great, however the one image that caught my eye was an older piece. Here is a great link explaining the details of the scene: https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2018/12/05/with-striking-juxtapositions-nordic-art-unfurls-at-the-phillips-collection

However, my attention was drawn to the application of the paint and the texture of the canvas. I was surprised to find out that it was tempera. I love the graphic feel of the work, with the outline contour of each element. The funny story behind this is that the wife of the person who commissioned it was so horrified with the image that she did not want it in her house, to which the artist did not care. He knew it was great and just because of this woman's dismissal was not a reason for him to feel badly about his work. I think this attitude was very cocky and refreshingly self-assured. He knew how good he was, and he did not care if others did not appreciate his work. Here are some close ups for you to appreciate the application of the tempera.

 This is probably the best watercolor I have ever made. I think it has to do with the fact that it's my mother and I took the picture. There were a ton of smiling images that I took but this one was natural as I captured it with my phone while she was not aware. I think she was happy that on a whim, we decided to jump on a train from Madrid to Seville and go for a night during the April Fair that happens every year in Seville. She is 80 years old when I took this, can you believe it?? She came from humble beginnings and raised two boys while may father worked during the day and studied at night. I am truly blessed to have had her as my mom and I treasure every day she is with us.

MOM IN A SEVILLANA DRESS