Cindy Carrillo - Paint from Life

AZ-Eight Artists show in Flagstaff- Mountain Oasis Restaurant

2011-09-20T07:52:00.000-07:00

Opening on Art Walk night Oct. 7, 2011 the AZ-Eight group will show at the Mountain Oasis Restaurant in Flagstaff, Arizona. The evenings are cool, lots of galleries, good food, music and just a real nice way to spend and evening. Each of us has one piece hanging in this show at Mountain Oasis. Work comes down at the end of October. My piece is 16" x 12" oil "Cast Shadows"- $950.00 was painted out at Lost Dutchmen State Park east of Phoenix.

Socalpapa "On Locaton" Judge Jeff Sewell

2011-09-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

What a fun day in Newport Beach at the Socalpapa Gallery. The Opening Reception for On Location was from 4:00pm - 6:00pm. Jeff Sewell was the Judge of Awards so it was really exciting for me to win an Honorable Mention in this show. The painting is of the Newport Back Bay, Ca. The show hangs until Oct. 30, 2011. Check out the Socalpapa website, they are a great group of people will good show venues, well worth the membership for artists.

San Juan Capistrano

2011-09-15T19:06:00.000-07:00

So worth the visit, the San Juan Capistrano Mission is beautiful. The old worn walls, worn walkways, old green bells, lavender, roses, zinnias all in bloom. Finished a nice little 12" x9, here it is in progress. Getting walls to look solid, but falling down at the same time- ugh. Hummingbirds buzzing me all afternoon. If you are traveling take only small canvas, 6"x8", 5"x7"- take only alizeran crimson, ultra marine blue, and any yellow and white. You can get really anything you need from these- keep the painting simple shapes, the colors accurate, the values accurate. Using that and a couple of photos just to get the details and proportions correct and you are all set to create a large piece in the studio. Don't stress that you have to create a show ready piece. With this mind set you will probably come out with a real nice piece. You are putting in paint what you want to remember about the place, the day, the air, the feel of the place. Check out in my blog where I wrote about the little paint box created by Jerry Pond. They are tiny, good for travel. They work well with gouache also if you can't take oils along.

Painting Crystal cove cottages

2011-09-15T08:23:00.000-07:00

Painting the old cottages at Crystal Cove. The old cottages are leaning and broken down. Great subjects. This cottage is one of my favorites. Many are cleaned up and rent-able, something I will do in the future. I would love to be here at sunset and not have to go home! Ice plant covers the sand. Getting the white of the building to look "old white" was hard. More to come.

Laguna Canyon Rd- Big Bend pulloff

2011-09-15T08:15:00.000-07:00

Here was a struggle, some days I feel like I fight through the painting. This is while in progress- the scene is so famous to those of us who study the California Impressionists. It is the view down Laguna Canyon Rd. of the Big Bend. Beautiful spot, oak trees, and mountain lion sightings.

Newport Back Bay Afternoon

2011-09-13T17:28:00.000-07:00

Different angle looking at the Newport back bay from Bluff Rd between Jamboree and PCH. Beautiful white birds- where is my ornithologist when I need him?? Finished one nice small piece and scraped another. Chalk that one up to I learned something.

Laguna Beach California

2011-09-12T18:13:00.000-07:00

Working on the roadside as you head into Laguna Beach. California painters have painted this scene since the 40's. It was so fun for me to be struggling with the same view they did. Hazy mountains in the distance, the winding hwy that leads into town. So beautiful, with oak trees, palm trees, eucalyptus, fresh green grass from the recent rains. Guy Rose, Marion Wachtel, John Gamble, Edgar Alwin Payne.

"Back Bay Delight" SOCALPAPA "On Location" show

2011-09-10T16:48:00.000-07:00

This 8"x 8" oil "Back Bay Delight" was painted on the road that winds through the Back Bay in Newport Beach, California. The water winds its way inland creating a thick marshland full of interesting water birds and sun washed cliffs. The show for SOCALPAPA called "On Location" has a collection of paintings done on location that also include a photograph of the painting on the easel. Opening Reception is Sat. Sept. 17th from 4:00-6:00pm. Located on the Balboa Fun Zone Boardwalk at 600 East Bay Ave. Newport Beach, CA. 92661. It is open Wed-Sun. I will be at the gallery tomorrow, Sept. 11, from 1:00 on if you are in the area. Please contact info@socalpapa.com if you are interested in purchasing this painting. It is framed in a dark wood wide edged frame with gold touched on the inside edge made by King of Frame in Costa Mesa.

Awards at the Women of the West Show 2011

2011-09-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

Here is my good friend Terri Sanchez with her Best of Show award for the cool painting of the Garden of the Gods and shadowed snow. Really nice piece handled well. The opening was well attended and fun. Ann and Ron Wilcock do a great job of promoting their artists.

"Women of the West" Opening Reception-Sept. 2, 2011

2011-09-02T08:34:00.000-07:00

Earthwood Gallery
1412 Pearl Street, Boulder, Colorado 80302
303-444-3838
FB Earthwood
Cindy's Facebook

"Tranquil" ranch scene in Colorado

2011-09-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

This painting is a 10" x 20" oil on canvas, I didn't have time to muddy it up since the bees kept me moving! This area is west of Castle Rock on one of the side roads that parallel Hwy.25. This oil is available at the Earthwood Gallery in Boulder, Co.
Painted out on Pearl St. this morning and other than it being a nice day was a total washout for any painting to keep. Just a big pile of grey from scraping.

Colorado Countryside and old tractors

2011-08-30T12:20:00.000-07:00

Colorado countryside has views every direction. Started off clear and warm then the afternoon clouds came in. This is an 11"x 14" oil - "Country Lane"
Lovely old tractor on the side of the road. "Best Days are Over", 8" x 10" in a metal look frame. Ready to go to Boulder tomorrow.
Here she is, isn't it neat? All rusted out, great colors hidden in and out of the engine.

Painting Colorado Ranches

2011-08-29T19:13:00.000-07:00

Lovely barns and ranches south of Denver, west of Hwy 25. Rain and storms on and off so I am under my van back door. The lightening finally got too bad for me, I bailed and came back later in the afternoon. The sun came out again. so much green and wildflowers. This painting will go into the Boulder, Earthwood Gallery went done. It is a panorama shape. The Opening Night Reception for Women of the West is this Friday night. I really hope to have a few new pieces done here in Colorado to add to the show. Other than the lightening and bees, all good plein air day.

Painting in Colorado- Drive over Mount Evans, Co.

2011-08-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

Is this sweet or what! A mom and baby mountain goat- I should have looked up the proper name but I am luck to get the photo posted at all. Took the drive over Mount Evans which is 14,000 plus high and no guard rails. But what views! The clouds are below you as you drive. Little summer flowers- green grass - and 43 degrees. A thick fog came in with rain within 6 minutes. Crazy and beautiful.
Summit Lake, cold wind, prehistoric shaped rocks, colorful lichens in pinks, yellow, greens, tans on the rocks. Yes, I am cold. When I left home it was 117 so bit of a change---
Bristle Pine trees, some over a 1,000 years old. All twisted and bent, thick and tough. Able to withstand the hard winds, intense sunlight, ice, snow yet grow. They hunker down to the ground. Strange sight to see but a good example of endurance.
Waterfalls come out of rocks along side the road, tumbling cold clear water.
Today I am headed south to the Larkspur area where I hear of many beautiful old farm building, and farm equipment. After painting last year in Victor I am more confident to tackle the machinery and old trucks. Hope to come home with a keeper to take into the Earthwood Gallery in Boulder---- rather than a nice pile of grey paint. Grateful to be here.

Earthwood Gallery "Women of the West" 2011

2011-08-27T12:16:00.000-07:00

Lovely old wagon full of flowers ready to be painted! Below is at the Earthwood Gallery in Estes Park right on the main drag. Ron and Ann Wilcox handle all my work.

Gyenn's Garden Shop- Painting in Longmont, Co

2011-08-27T11:46:00.000-07:00

On the way up the 36 to Estes Park is Gwyenne's Garden Shoppe (4559 Highland Dr, Longmont, CO) and greenhouse, real neat place with unusual cool stuff for your garden. And this cool old bathtub filled with flower by two mail boxes. I met the gal that made it, Erica (hope I have spelled her name right!) so I named it Erica's Flowers, it is a 6"x6" oil on board and will be available at the Earthwood Gallery in Boulder, Co on Pearl St. Pics below are from in front of the Nursery. Cool weather, afternoon rains, seeing old friends, all good.

"Snow Tones" oil 6"x6"

2011-08-21T15:11:00.000-07:00

One more little piece a 6"x6" love working on the square format, great size for travel. Framed in silver ready for the Earthwood Gallery show! Western Light!

Painting in Boulder and Estes Park, Colorado Earthwood Gallery

2011-08-20T11:12:00.001-07:00

"Snow Melt" 14" x 11" oil on board
"Marshland Fall" 12" x 16" oil- frame silver wood
"Risky Crossing" 12" x 16" oil- frame dark wood Tuscan
"Working Farm" 12" x 16" oil -frame dark wood Tuscan
"Sunny Window" 12" x 24" oil on canvas-framed dark wood
"Snow Shapes" 6" x 6" oil on board - framed silver
"Retired" 8" x 10" oil on board - framed dark wood
"Spring Meltdown" 11"x 14" oil on board- frame dark wood
"Eucaliptus Moon" 20" x 16" oil on canvas
The good things about August in Arizona are the incredible monsoon clouds, they are spectacular and I look forward to that every year. The ugly part is the heat, and the humidity- both bad together. I am headed to paint in Colorado, bringing up a whole van load of paintings for the "Women of the West" show in Boulder, Co. and the "Western Light" show in Estes Park, Co. I will be posting the new pieces I finish while in the Denver area maybe even a short video or two to give you all the feeling of the place. Paintings are going into frames, canvas's toned, brushes and palette cleaned to be ready. Here are a couple of pieces already to go- I will post a list of all the paintings/prices this week with more to follow as I finish the new wet work. All are available through the Earthwood Gallery, Estes Park and in Boulder. I will be posting the Paintouts, one in downtown Estes Park on Aug. 25th, the other on Pearl St. in Boulder on Sept 1, with pics of the paintings and the art scene. All good!
Boulder Gallery Phone 303-444-3838
Estes Park Phone 970-577-8100

Painting in Laguna Beach

2011-05-31T19:34:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, June 4th, I will be painting set up on the Sunset Terrace at the St. Regis Monarch Hotel. Here are a couple of 8"x 10" pieces I did on my last trip there. This trip I will head to Crystal Cove as well, one of my favorite spots. Will plan to also paint down in the Laguna Canyon to hopefully get a painting ready for the Socalpapa show at the end of the summer.
CindyCarrillo.com

Randy Higbee Gallery 6x6 Show April 16

2011-03-24T19:25:00.000-07:00

I am so pleased that my little 6" x 6" oil painting was juried into the
Randy Higbee Gallery 6 x 6 show . The opening reception is April 16th in Costa Mesa, Ca. All the pieces are framed in one of the King of Frames beautiful frames. I chose a wide deep gold frame that should set this little piece off very nicely. "Shadowed Gorge" is an oil on canvas- $480.00 Please give the gallery a call if you are interested in purchasing this painting.
102 Kalmus. Costa Mesa. Ca. 92626. 714.546.2156

Painting 6" x6" - just the basics

2011-03-20T16:01:00.000-07:00

Keeping small canvas on hand all the time is a really good idea. When the day is about over from painting, but you know you still have light for maybe a 1/2 hour at the least. You have time to pull off a simple piece, you don't have time to overwork it, just get down the basics. This can end up being scraped off, or a keeper or one to use as a launching point for a larger work. This little 6" x6" piece was finished up as the sun was going down in Sedona Az. I just don't get to go up there as often as I might like so when I am there I paint! I didn't want to let the opportunity go. I keep 5" x7", 6" x8" and 6" x 6" in my canvas box all the time now. They are also a real good idea when you just aren't sure you want to do a large piece of a scene but do a small one first, if it works then pull out a larger canvas and go for it. Give it a try.

PAAC Show at the Saks Gallery in Denver- June 2011

2011-03-07T20:22:00.000-08:00

These two pieces made it into the Plein Air Artists of Colorado show in Denver this coming June. It always happens, right when I am feeling blue about my work something exciting happens to keep me going. These are both 12" x 16". The top one is "Working Farm" painted just south of Castle Rock, Co. and the bottom piece is "Risky Crossing" painted just south of Sedona.

Paint at Lost Dutchmen Mar. 16th/Toni Perrin

2011-03-07T07:03:00.000-08:00

Here is an invitation from Toni Perrin to paint the deserts in the east Valley-

Hello APAP painters!

We will meet at Lost Dutchman State Park at 1 p.m. for a wonderful paint-out. You will find me at the Siphon Draw Trailhead (restrooms, ramadas) at 12:30.

Don't forget that there is a daily entry fee unless you have an AZ State Parks Pass.

For painters who prefer to work in the morning, please feel free to join the Sonoran Arts League Wednesday Troops at the Crosscut Trailhead which is the first right-hand turnoff just past the Park.

March 16: Two time options.

8:00 a.m Crosscut Trailhead

This is a trailhead just north of the Superstitions at Lost Dutchman Park.

Follow directions to Lost Dutchman Park (below), but do not go in.

Continue on 88 slowly and watchfully. The road is curved and signs are easy to miss.

About 1/4 mile north of the park entrance there will be a National Forest sign. Shortly after, the First Water Trailhead sign will be on the right. There is a short turn-off lane.

(If you see the 202 mile marker, you have gone too far.)

Turn right onto the dirt/gravel road. Go to the Crosscut Trailhead (1/2 mile in).

Directions to Lost Dutchman Park. Please remember that we are not painting there, but will be on the trail farther north.

Lost Dutchman State Park
6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction.
101 south to #60.
60 east to #88 (Apache Trail)
Left (north) on #88 to Lost Dutchman State Park (about 5 miles.)

1:00p.m. Lost Dutchman State Park. Please refer to the directions above. APAP Paint-out. Guests welcome. Separate instructions will come for this event.

I hope to see many of you there. If you plan to attend, please r.s.v.p. to me by the Monday before the event:

Toni Perrin (H) 480-473-3421 or by email. If I am not home, just leave your name and the fact that you are going to join us.

My cell phone, 480-473-3421, will not be turned on until Wednesday.

Blessings to you all and happy painting!

Toni

Newport Beach Gallery-Fun Zone

2011-02-23T18:35:00.000-08:00

Painted this 10x 12" oil along the Cali. coast. I love painting the heavy atmosphere at the ocean. It is thick and greys out the distance. This painting "Never Still" will be at the Southern Cali. Plein Air Painters Gallery by the Newport Nautical Museum March 5, 2011. The gallery is right by the Fun Zone in Newport where you catch the ferry to Balboa Island. I will be headed out there to help out in the show, and to paint in Newport, always fun.

APAP Spring Show in Sedona

2011-02-10T16:02:00.000-08:00

"Salt River Marsh" 12"x 16"
Just received the jury results for the APAP Spring Show in Sedona this April- the top one- Salt River Marsh is a plein air piece and the one below was done in the studio from a plein air piece.
The Old Ones" 24" x 18"

Painting in La Jolla, Ca

2011-02-05T21:22:00.000-08:00

While in San Diego this weekend to watch Katie and the ASU Womens Ultimate Frisbee Team beat UCSD - I had about 2 hours of free time and finished up this little 6"x6" oil. I definitely needs some touch up but I like its rough finish. This was the day, warm sunshine, cool breezes, flowers everywhere, blue sky, could not be better. I really think painting in Ca. is the best in the winter and early spring before all the crowds. Wish I had longer to paint but I always wish that! Yes, this is the little paint box that Jerry Pond makes. Lightweight enough that I can carry it around all day and my shoulders don't hurt. That's important to me!

Learning to Crochet

2011-01-25T08:29:00.000-08:00

What does learning to crochet have to do with painting? Nothing actually. I just had a revelation that the reason I crochet rather than knit is the same reason I paint with oil and not acrylics. Crochet and Oils are forgiving. When you make a booboo you can just scrap off oils, even hours afterwards and no ones the wiser. Crochet, when you make a mistake you don't have to knit backwards like knitting, you pull the yarn and out she goes. Again no on is the wiser. Crochet gives me a 3 D artform that keeps my hands nimble. Here is a link to my blog that has a link to a good website for learning to crochet or getting very nice patterns online.
http://allusedupcycleddenim.blogspot.com/2011/01/rescued-yarn.html

Simplified Palette

2011-01-06T09:12:00.000-08:00

Went out to paint the Salt River Marsh with my new little thumb box- it worked out so nice. I did a challenge to myself with an assignment that was given to me by Gabor Svagrik in Tucson. He made us put out only 3 colors plus white. At first I thought how boring this piece is going to be but instead out came a wonderful little painting. Simple yet so many colors can come out of a simple palette. I chose Alizarin Crimson, Ultra Marine Blue, and Yellow Ochre (Varsari Paints) plus titanium white. For landscapes here in the desert that combo worked great. I think if I were painting in Hawaii I would probably just change out the yellow to a Cad. yellow light to get those powerful greens. Try it out yourself, it makes your pack so much lighter and lets you spend your time studying the landscape in front of you, not digging around in your backpack for another color tube.
Thumb box made by Jerry Pond- 928-634-1212

Painting Salt River Marshes in Tempe, Az

2011-01-05T18:19:00.000-08:00

Here's my little piece I did over north of the Tempe Market Place looking down into the Salt River Marsh. Several artists showed up to paint on Tuesday and everyone seemed to like the view. It's at 101 & McClintock at Tempe Market Place drive as far north in the parking lot as you can. Walk up to the road way that runs along the riverbed and there is your view. All good looking up stream or down. When the weather warms up I look forward to painting the little boats on the Tempe Lake.

Paint with Arizona Plein Air Painters

2011-01-03T10:12:00.000-08:00

Come paint with us- short notice yes, but I have that time free and had already planned to paint at this spot so I invited all of the APAP members.
Jan. 4th-
Host Cindy Carrillo- 3:00pm
Location- View of the Salt River Marsh north of Tempe Market Place, Tempe.
TMP is on McClintock and the 202. When in the lot go north of the complex
behind the restaurant Maria Maria. Park as far north end as you can.
There is an elevated road that runs along the Salt River & Tempe Town Lake
going east and west. That road is where we will be setting up to paint, looking
north into the river bed. The views have cottonwood trees, reeds, reflections,
rocks, ducks, bridges. You can park in the spots with in a few steps of the view
and painting set up spots. Of course being at the Mall there are plenty
of places to get a coffee and bathrooms.

Fine Art America - Winter Scene

2010-12-29T08:53:00.000-08:00

Here is my newest piece a plein air piece that I started out in the sunshine and finished sitting in the car. I was in Sedona a week or so ago and another winter storm blew in. I it available as a print on Fine Art America- and since I just lowered my prices on FAA! You can order it as a print or framed all on the same website. Go to FAA

Fine Art America- Lower Prices for 2011

2010-12-28T18:07:00.000-08:00

To help jump start 2011 I went onto my Fine Art America site where you can order reproductions of many of my oil painting, photographs and monoprints and dropped prices dramatically. Really dropped them. I want them to be affordable and good quality. FAA makes a good product already I just needed to fiddle with the dollar signs! Take advantage of it and take a look when you have a chance. You can order just a poster, printed on canvas, or all framed up and matted.
I found that I really miss the mono-printing, it was so freeing and just plain fun. I would use color much more boldly and without concern. Hopefully I will have some new pieces to post this New Year of wood cuts and monoprints. I will also be plein air painting in Irvine California getting ready for a fundraising show for the Irvine Preserves in Ca. Can't wait! I will post that new work as soon as it is ready to frame up.
www.http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/cindy-carrillo.html

Handmade Walnut Pochade Box

2010-12-13T08:00:00.001-08:00

I am so excited to show this to you all. Jerry Pond is a friend of mine, an amazing painter, and also a very skilled woodworker. Being a plein air painter, Jerry knows what we all need in a good travel pochade box. He has designed these boxes and then hand builds them. They are made with great care and attention to detail. Besides the travel box he also makes little thumb-boxes.
This size is perfect for when you don't want to drag around your tripod. Or if you want to remain a less conspicuous, say in a coffee shop painting the people around you.
Jerry's prices are more than reasonable, his craftmanship is excellent. Jerry would be happy to talk with you and answer questions you might have.
Here are the details.
You can contact Jerry Pond at 928-634-1212 or 928-310-5832 JerryWPond@yahoo.com

Thumb box is offered in two sizes, 5"x7" and 6x8". It will accommodate 20mm and 22mm tubes. Holds two panels, w/tripod adapter, in black walnut. $125.00 & 150.00 plus shipping.

Standard pochade
8"x10" & 9x12" , in black walnut. Holds two panels, with tripod adapter.Will accommodate standard size tubes. $175.00 $200.00 plus shipping.

In Stock: (2) 5x7", (2) 6"x8", in black walnut. (1 ) 8'x10, (2) 9"x12),l in ash.

A thumb box provides opportunity to paint anywhere, with out need for a tripod. I recommend sitting .sketch pencils, standard ,chrome finish ,wood ,cocobolo. 30.00. miniature ,chrome finish,wood,same or choose type. 25.00.

Arizona Fall Colors

2010-12-09T09:15:00.000-08:00

I finally got out to paint. Went down to the Farm at South Mountain to capture this little tree and its wonderful fall color. There was no wind, and you could hear the leaves as they fell. 11"x 14" oil o board.
www.cindycarrillo.com

March Garden Show at the Shemer

2010-12-01T17:45:00.000-08:00

Join me for a fun outdoor show at the Shemer on March 19th, 2011. I am so excited about being asked to show with this group of artists. My booth will be filled with new paintings, many of them florals, and some new designs in accessories including bags and purses. Mark your calendars to head to Camelback & Arcadia in Phoenix. Email me if you would like an invitation mailed to you. I will have more information on my Facebook page and here on my blog.

Art and Wine with Barbara Schoepf

2010-11-09T14:02:00.000-08:00

With the cool fall air comes the start of the season for classes at the Farm at South Mountain. So just wanted to let you know about the upcoming schedule of events

Art and Wine - Friday November 12 and December 3rd $30 supplies and wine included 5:30 ish to 7:30 ish

Art and Lunch - Saturdays November 13, 20 and 27 $20 supplies included - Farm lunch $12 optional 10:30 to 12:30

Come relax in the beautiful environs of the farm and leave with a piece of art to take home
No experience is required, just bring your self and your smile.

If you would like to register please reply, class size is limited

Hope you can join us !

Barbara Schoepf

The Farm at South Mountain

480 251-5385 c

Monday Painters

2010-10-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

Wanted to spread the word!!

We are the Monday Painters (plein air). It is a new group. We will start meeting on Monday, November 1^st and meet every Monday through April, weather permitting!

We will meet on Mondays at 8:30 a.m. at Starbucks on Tatum and Shea (NE corner). Decide at that time where we go to paint and head out and do it!!

Paint from 9 to noon. Bring your lunch and we will eat and do a critique. You can put a painting in the critique if you want or not, no requirement.

I am sure the same people will not show up every Monday but this is casual, no worries group!

Basically we are just prompting plein air painting. Just meet up and go paint. No phone calls, no emails … no complications. No planning ahead, just meet up and paint!!

If you are interested, just show up!!

Examples of painting sites we might consider:
Needle Rock

Pima/Dynamite area

McDowell Mt Park

Bush Hwy

Saguaro Lake area

Downtown Scottsdale

Bring any location ideas and make a suggestion!

Let’s paint!!

Fine Art America

2010-10-25T17:38:00.000-07:00

Both of these photos are available in several print sizes at Fine Art America. You will also find prints available for several of my paintings. FAA handles everything, framing or not framed, lots of choices. Fine Art America-Cindy Carrillo
http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/cindy-carrillo.html

What I did on my summer vacation-All Used Up

2010-09-29T19:48:00.000-07:00

What I did on my summer vacation-
rather than be on the show "Hoarders" I thought I better get rid of my fabric stash on my own and have fun at the same time. I have always loved sewing and my favorite clothes are usually made of denim. Here is my post on the blog www.AllUsedupCycledDenim.blogpost.com

Cindy Carrillo takes old jeans, leather jackets, canvas, linens, crocheted lace, what ever is available on her sewing table and creates something new. Messenger bags, hand bags, hobo bags, duffle bags, Pod & Pad bags, evening purses and clutches- no two are alike.

All are durable, taking advantage of the natural way denim frays and fades and making the most out of it. Each piece is guaranteed to fray more, fade more and get better with age.

Watch for new lines- Repurposed Leather bags, Baby Blues, and EyePad bags.
Be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the page and watch the slide show of our Fall line!

Want to know more? www.AllUsedUp.etsy.com

Photographs from Colorado - C.Carrillo

2010-09-24T15:12:00.001-07:00

"Need a Tow?"- This colorful old tow truck photo is available on www.fineartamerica.com. Put in Cindy Carrillo and up should come small thumbnails of several new photos available as reproductions on canvas or photo paper. You can order them framed or sent to you rolled in a tube.
The photo below is from four different pictures taken of old doors in Victor, Colorado. It is called "Passage Ways" and also available as a print or printed on canvas. FAM can mat and frame your print for a very reasonable cost.
Photographers would love the little town of Victor, Co. There are so many old ranches and homes that dot the landscape, old mining equipment just left to sit and rust out and of course wonderful old trucks. The town has a very rich history and is at an elevation of 10,000 feet. Yes, you will need a nap every afternoon.

Fine Art America- Photographs-C.Carrillo

2010-09-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

both of these images were taken in Colorado this summer. The cool cruiser was on Pearl St. in Boulder. The funky old tow truck was on Main St. in Victor, Colorado where I was attending the Victor Celebrates the Arts in August 2010. Both these images are available at www.finartamerica.com Just put in Cindy Carrillo to see my page where you can order reproductions of several of my paintings and photographs.

Vote now for "Retired in Victor Colorado"

2010-09-09T15:44:00.000-07:00

Please support me
by voting
for my art!

September 2010

Painting Contest by

BoldBrush

Sponsor:

FASO

Artist Websites

Victor Celebrates the Arts-3rd Place-"Retired in Victor"

2010-09-05T16:13:00.000-07:00

Yea~! This little 10" x 8" oil called "Retired in Victor" won 3rd Place in the Professional category at Victor Celebrates the Arts. Thank you Tony for the "reviewing prospectives" talk we had just before I painted this old truck! No longer afraid of painting vehicles- I was reeeeeal good at avoiding them but no longer need to. The folks at the VCTA had a nice dinner for all the artists. If you are looking for fancy smancy this is not the Paint out for you, if you want friendly, open people, great views, wonderful old buildings, mountain flowers, real icecream milk shakes- head to Victor to paint.

Earthwood Gallery- Boulder, Colorado

2010-09-02T08:33:00.000-07:00

This painting "Playful Dancing Shadows' 24" x 36" oil on canvas is available at the Earthwood Gallery in Boulder, Colorado. www.earthwoodgallery.com
Ask for Ron or Ann at 303-444-3838

Painting Colorado Barns

2010-09-02T08:27:00.001-07:00

This painting is going home with me, this lovely old red barn is just east of Hwy. 25 south of Castle Rock, Colorado. This won't count for the Victor competition as it is out of the boundary painting range. It is a keeper painted late afternoon.

"Working Farm" oil on board
16" x 12"

Victor Celebrates the Arts 2010

2010-09-02T08:21:00.001-07:00

Paintings ready to turn in with one more to go that I will paint today.
"The Lucky Buck Bar"
10" 8" oil

"Needs Paint" 9" x 12" oil

and

"American Eagle Mine"
11" x 14" oil

Paintings of Colorado Barns

2010-09-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

I am having a great time painting old barns we find along the road. This beauty is just east of I 25, south of Castle Rock, Colorado. Headed to Victor tomorrow to paint an old truck. All my pieces have to be turned in on Friday. This painting here I am saving to take home-
www.victorcelebratesthearts.com

Victor, Colorado Summer of 2010

2010-08-31T09:07:00.000-07:00

Victor Celebrates the Arts

2010-08-29T17:13:00.000-07:00

I am in Victor Colorado painting for the Victor Celebrates the Arts. All our freshly painted pieces are due in on Friday morning framed and ready to sell. This little old school house even had a bell tower still intact. The old mining town has restored building in the downtown area, old ranches, deserted building, old mining equipment and beautiful scenery. The weather is perfect with around 74 degrees a few showers here and there. I find that the coolest part of painting the old equipment is to focus on the structure and use it to create a good strong composition. We'll see how well it works- more postings later. If you are on Facebook you can check out my facebook page for more pictures.

Honorable Mention from Jean Stern-Irvine Director

2010-08-24T11:18:00.000-07:00

This painting won an "Honorable Mention" from Jean Stern the curator of the Irvine Museum in California. It sold and it headed off to a new home in England as a memory of a vacation in California. Just the way I like it to happen.

Fog Laiden Moraine Park

2010-08-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

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August 2010

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Painting Contest

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Fine Art America- Carrillo reproductions

2010-08-12T13:45:00.000-07:00

For Reproductions of some of my oil paintings and greeting cards check out this website. http://cindy-carrillo.fineartamerica.com/

SOCALPAPA Newport Beach, Calif.

2010-08-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

This painting was done while I was in Laguna toward the end of the day when parents were taking down umbrellas, gathering towels and bringing in the kids. This scene has been painted by so many artists for obvious reasons, the rocks, moving surf, changing sky, all elements to make us crazy trying to capture the whole essence of what we are seeing.

Western Light- Earthwood Gallery Colorado

2010-08-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

"Western Light" Exhibit of artwork at the Earthwood Gallery.
These paintings are on their way to the Earthwood Gallery in Estes Park, Colorado. Here are three of my newest pieces- "Thirsty Desert" 8" x 6" oil, "Tumbling Waters" 14" x 11" oil, "Just Passing Through" 8"x 6" oil. The first gallery opening for this show is Sat. August 7, there is a second reception on August 28th. I will be at the second reception and also will be painting in town on that Saturday. The gallery is located at 141 E. Elkhorn Ave.- For purchase information on any of these pieces you can call Ron or Ann Wilcock at 970-577-8100.

Laguna Beach Painting & Moraine Park oil

2010-07-27T16:58:00.001-07:00

This painting was done at the Rocky Mountain National Park this July. It is at Moraine Park- it had rained everyday but still really beautiful. The fog hung so low over the peaks and just rolled slowly over the meadow. This is the Fall River- it is one of my favorite spots. Oil, 20x 16" "Fog in Moraine Park" and will be hanging at the Estes Park, Earthwood Gallery in

www.earthwoodgallery.com

This painting was done last week in Laguna Beach- the sun was just starting to go down and the beachgoers were taking in their umbrellas and gathering their kids. This has been entered into a SocalPapa Show- have to wait to see if it made it in. I hope so, I need another excuse to drive back to the beach. Their gallery in at the ferry dock in Newport Beach.
"Summers Day" 14" x 11"

Plein Air Southwest 2010/11

2010-07-21T20:05:00.000-07:00

Yea! I was accepted into Plein Air Southwest 2010/11. We are given set dates to paint with in, we can paint in 5 states in the Western US. I love these sort of shows, it is a challenge to myself to make each painting better than the last one and to push myself to not use tried and true techniques. It is always awesome to see the work of the other artists- so much to learn from them.
Check out www.pleinairsouthwest.com to see the names of the artists in the show and where we will be painting.

Fine Art America.com

2010-07-20T15:36:00.000-07:00

I just uploaded the pic of "Peonies Study" on Fine Art America- it is available only as a greeting card as of now. Their cards are glossy and on good quality card stock- not the flimsy stuff. Go to www.fineartamerica.com then click on Artists- and then put in my name. Under location you can put in Tempe also. This little 12" x 6" oil on canvas can be purchased at the Earthwood Gallery in Boulder, Colorado. Ask for Ann or Ron at 303-444-3838

Best of Show & Peoples Choice Awards at the Women of the West, Earthwood Gallery Boulder, Co.

2010-07-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

Wow what a fun reception at the Earthwood Gallery in Boulder last night. Here are us gals - the Women of the West. Me, Dawn Normandi, Coni Grant and Margaret Jensen. Each of us have very different styles but all share the love of painting outdoors from life. I won the Peoples Choice and the Best of Show Awards so of course that made it all even more fun. This gallery is located on the Pearl Street , it is closed off to traffic and lined with large trees.

Rocky Mountain National Park & Earthwood Gallery

2010-07-09T12:40:00.001-07:00

I am in Rocky Mountain National Park- 63 degrees misty with the occasional sprinkles. Finished a painting under the back hood of my van. I will post that soon. This place is like a picture book with one scene after the other that is too amazing. So much to paint and draw and photograph. The Women of the West show opening is tonight at the Earthwood Collections in Boulder, Colorado. My new still lifes are in this show- we will see how they are received. We are all loving the weather. Huge billowy clouds form in just minutes. I have learned that the weather in this part of Colorado changes so fast. You need to always have a good jacket and hat in the car and sunblock for the intense sunshine. They don't seem to have a lot of air up here either. I am out of breath all the time.

Waterfalls are everywhere- tumbling with huge rocks- rocks the size of a van. The next picture is of a double rainbow- with the colors as pure as paint. This place is totally worth planning a family trip to. Stay in Boulder or Estes Park and bring your hiking shoes and camera.

"Best in Plein Air" LPAPA 2010

2010-06-29T09:55:00.000-07:00

Laguna Plein Air Painters was the first big plein air group that I joined maybe 6 years ago. I applied for their big annual show and have been turned down each year. Most years I realize now my work was not at that level, some years I thought I had strong work. But this year, I got in. My painting "Spring Melt", 11" x 14" oil on canvas is one of my favorite pieces. I am still pinching myself. "Best of Plein Air" will be at the Esther Wells Collection in Laguna Beach, the reception on July 17th, 2010. Photos of the reception will be on this blog. This painting was done in Payson Az. a day after a big storm. The sun came out and snow was melting and dropping off the tree limbs. Lot of popping, dripping sounds. And cold.

"Women of the West" Boulder, Colorado

2010-06-24T10:57:00.000-07:00

Yea! Road trip coming up- taking up all the new paintings created for the Women of the West Show at the Earthwood Gallery in Boulder, Colorado. The opening reception is on July 9th from 6:00- 9:00pm. If you are in the area at all please try to come by and see my newest pieces. This will be the first time I am showing floral still lifes and I am really excited about that. There are 3 wet canvas in front of fans as I write. Two pieces I used some beautiful pink peonies (florist shop-can't grow these here!) and today I will work with sunflowers. There will be several landscapes from New Mexico and Colorado scenes. Check out the Earthwood Gallery website to see the other 6 artists painting samples. Each of us is very different. The other artists are Sarah Rogers, Margaret Jensen, Maggie Hellmann, Coni Grant, and Dawn Normandi.
This little painting is called "Peonies Study", 6" x 12" oil on canvas. If you are interested in purchasing any of the works in the show including this piece contact Ron Wilcocks at 303-444-3838. Pictures of all the paintings headed for this show will be posted by July 2, 2010.

Stuck in a Rut

2010-05-07T21:38:00.000-07:00

I have been in a painting rut lately, I will complete a real nice piece, then I can't even put down the shapes right. It has been real frustrating to say the least. All artists have this and we all complain about it. I have stumbled upon some help by accident. My background in college was as a 3D artist, ceramics, fabrics and wood. I love to sew and can make anything. I was motivated to learn when my dad told me that he would buy all the fabric I wanted if I sewed my own clothes (I was 12). So instead of the dorky things mom bought I was able to make plenty of mini's to wear to school. I recently pulled out some lovely fabrics making a dress for my grandaughter, one thing lead to another and I have been a sewing feend for the last several weeks. I have always loved the textures, and variety of colors fabrics come in- much like why I love oil paints. After several days of non-stop sewing I was in California at Crystal Cove. As I started to put down the paint I realized I was using much of the same color combos I had been sewing with- and these were colors out of my usual comfort zone. Surprisingly I moved along with ease really enjoying the new colors. I did a view looking away from the ocean and back at the little yellow house in the back of the property- I think it is a keeper.(the Eucaliptus were painted in Whittier, Ca. ) Moral of this long story- getting your hands into another medium than your paints can get the fuzzy brain to work in new ways. Both mediums complement the other not detract. A bit later I will show you my creations that came out of old denim, ugly tossed out ties and some tacky old leather jackets. New life came out of these items and renewed me at the same time. Watch for All Used Up coming to this blog soon.

Art of Helping

2010-04-16T07:59:00.000-07:00

I think that for the most part artist's tend to be way to self-centered. Then there comes an exception- http://www.artofhelping.org/ set up by John Burton. John was one of my teachers and helped me on my path as an artist. Wonderful artwork by some of our best artists will be up for an auction. The minimum bid is $300.00 and ALL the money goes to benefit the victims of the earthquake in Chile. Here is your chance to purchase a beautiful piece of art AND help others. A win-win combo- Also to see Johns artwork go to www.burtonartstudio.com

Traveling Hwy.1 Amazing views & rubber ducks

2010-04-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

Looking south on Hwy 1 as we move up to San Fransisco and my gallery opening in Crockett. The views were amazing and that does not say enough for the beauty. Stayed in Cambria and found this Rubber Ducky Store, yes, all rubber ducks from all kinds of colleges, professions, personalities, crazy stuff. The opening at the Socalpapa gallery went great. Lots of traffic as it is located right in the Fun Zone in Newport. My 10 paintings have been delivered at the Epperson Gallery and the opening reception is Saturday night. It is a neat little town, cool old buildings that have been restored, we have been exploring. All good.

Epperson Gallery "Best in Show"

2010-04-01T14:28:00.001-07:00

"Mayas Place" 6"x8" oil on board

"Old Ones" 24"x18" oil on canvas
"Morro Bay Afternoon" oil on board
"Retired in Alameda" 8" x 10" oil on board

"Perfect Day" 8" x 16" oil on canvas

"Grand Marina" 16" x 20" oil

Opening night is April 10th and runs to May 16th, at the
Epperson Gallery in the Bay Area, Crockett, California. 1400 Pomona Street, 510-787-2925. I am one of 4 artists in this show. Linda Dellandre, Rolando S. Barrero, Leslie Wilson and myself will be showing California landscapes. Here is a sampling of work I will have at the gallery. You can contact Gerald at the Epperson for purchase information.

SOCALPAPA "Small is Beautiful" on Balboa Island

2010-03-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Here is one of two pieces that got into the Southern California Plein Air Painters Association. The gallery is on Balboa Island in the Newport Nautical Museum Fun Zoneand the opening reception is April 3rd. Check out their website- lots of great work. www.socalpapa.com
And of course this little painting is the pier in Avalon, Catalina Island. It is a 8" x 6" oil and available on April 10th, 2010. "Cornville Garage" is a 6"x 8" oil. You can contact the Socalpapa folks for purchase. I am really looking forward to painting on Balboa Island, it is a beautiful colorful place.
www.carrillopainting.blogspot.com
www.cindycarrillo.com

"Retired in Alameda" & "Capestrano Shadows"

2010-03-17T12:43:00.000-07:00

Here are two paintings that will be in the "Best of Show" at the Epperson Gallery, Crockett, California. Both are plein air pieces- I will keep posting new pieces as they are ready to go. You can contact Gerald at the Epperson about purchase. Let me know if you would like an invitation to the Reception on April 10th, 2010. contact@cindycarrillo.com

"Landscape Under Foot" Sky Harbor Airport 4/3 - 11/26 2010

2010-03-01T14:26:00.000-08:00

"Landscapes Under Foot" is an exhibit that will be at the Terminal 3 Level 2 at Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix. These two paintings will be displayed along with 10 other Arizona artists. The first piece is a little 5"x7" oil on board called "Frozen Hillside" and the other is a 9"x12" oil called "Tubac Adobe". The show is all plein air and I will also have a video that can be viewed at the exhibit. What a cool way to help out travelers waiting for a delayed flight, family waiting for the delayed flight and to help educate those from other countries about Arizona and plein air painting!

Women of the West- Earthwood Gallery Boulder,Co

2010-02-24T09:28:00.000-08:00

Group show coming up with the Earthwood Gallery in Boulder, Co. It will be this coming Fall and my work will be hanging with a great group of women artists. As I know more it will be posted on Facebook, my website and this blog.
This painting is another piece done down at the Farm at South Mountain , a favorite painting local for me. It is an 11"x 14" oil on board that will be at the Southwest Gallery in Dallas in April for the Nomadas De Artes show.

"Best in Show" Epperson Gallery, California

2010-02-13T16:28:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a fast approaching deadline to get me painting. Sadly I do respond best to deadlines- coming up this April I am in a 4-Person Show called "Best in Show". Check out: Epperson Gallery in Crockett Ca. This gallery is in the bay area of northern Ca. There will be a slide show of the works completed that will be hanging in this show. One of the other artists in our 4 person show is Linda Dellandre, a wonderful pastelist. Check out her site to see examples of her work-
www.lindadellandre.com
The reception is on April 10th and I am planning a road trip to deliver our paintings and paint new pieces along the way.

Painting snow- Arizona style

2010-01-24T13:55:00.001-08:00

Looking to the east from Tempe the mountain ranges are blanketed in snow- it is beautiful and for us Valley types, real special. My bags are packed to head north to paint each day this week up untill the next storm comes in. Working in the cold is not easy for desert painters but we can adapt. I am taking along a big piece of cardboard to stand on, learned that one from another seasoned painter. Layers of clothes, a real warm hat, and using a soft titanium white. The paint tends to stiffen up in the cold. If at all possible , take advantage of unusual weather, uncomfortable or not. Your work will real be challenged and I have found you often paint your best. No time for trying to stage the perfect scene- you are freeezing or melting so better make up your mind and get to it. No excuses for not painting- even if only a tiny piece.
Several fun shows coming up- check out my website for details- one at the SunDust Gallery in Mesa AZ in February and another in March, an APAP show in Sedona, AZ in April.

Phil Starke- Oil painter

2010-01-03T17:09:00.000-08:00

Occasionally I will run across an artist blog or newsletter that is really helpful. One of my favorites belongs to Phil Starke. He is able to get anouncements out about upcoming shows, what is available to purchase but what you remember is his ability to give, to offer more for clients and for other aritists. It is totally worth signing up for it. Go to www.philstarke.com and get on his list. I have purchased one of his videos- on simplifing city scapes- real good, easy to follow, and clear. Phil also has a blog for artists with real interesting dialog on how he solves problems, and shares so much of what he knows. We are in a profession that unfortunately has many artists who seem to think the there is a finite amount of "art knowledge", or secrets, or somehow sharing knowledge will help others and hurt their themselves. How refreshing to find a talented artist who happily shares what he knows and hopes to see others improve.

Back to Basics

2009-11-30T13:52:00.000-08:00

Because of my surgery in Oct. I feel like I missed Arizona Fall. Tomorrow is Dec. 1st which makes me panic a bit. The hard part is I am slowly back into painting. It was as if I were afraid that I couldn't do it anymore. I have never gone this long away from my easel. SO when a friend of mine asked me today to explain "starts" I realized how perfect her request is. This last week I have been doing "starts" but not giving them the correct thoughtfullness. Starts, are not completed paintings, but decisions in paint on the composition, and values and temperature of the scene before you, They can be completed but for the time being leave them as they are. The most important step in a successful painting is right up front- what are you chosing out of the scene before you to paint, what is your composition going to be? Will this be a dramatic layout or a serene quiet scene. The correct composition choice can make the difference between a boring so so painting and one that holds the eye. Starts are only the lay in of a painting- usually working small is more convient but not important. You will be laying in the lines and layout of the painting in color. Use the values that come the closest to the scene. It's not a bad idea to push the darks a bit. It is hard to go into a painting and try to darken it up and many plein air aritists come home with too much white and not enough strong darks. Get down your darkest darks, and then your lightest lights (sky? water?) When you step back away from your painting does it appear strong? Does it work as an abstract because that is what a start looks like. Just simple puzzle like shapes of darks, shadows, light sky and lighter sides of objects. Use a true to the natural colors as you can, and not thick paint. Use a touch of your medium to lay this in. You will find that you go through a thought process something like this:
Emotional decision of what part of a scene to paint,
Intellectual decision of how to lay it out with the strongest composition
Emotional enjoyment of mixing the correct colors and where would the highlights go?
Intellectual - to be critical of your composition, colors, does it work? if not scrape it.
All of your paintings start this way but it takes longer as you fill in more and more detail up till you have as much as you feel the viewer needs. I have been doing starts all this week, to get my head thinking in the right way- Scene, then composition, then color notes layed out. I can always go back to these starts and finish them up and also learn from them. I often find that my starts were much more interesting, they were stronger than my studio work because of the deepest darks gave them strength- something that I often lack in studio work. Collect up some cheap canvas boards or mark off 5"x7" rectangles on large sheets of canvas paper and have them ready to go. My normal routine for painting outdoors includes a small start worked up first, then I can be critical of it- does it work, is the composition strong? This really helps me make the right call when I put my brush onto the canvas for a completed painting. These little abstracts should make a be difference in how you make artistic decisions in the beginning of any painting.

Arizona Plein Air Painters- 3rd Place

2009-11-21T12:44:00.000-08:00

At the Arizona Plein Air Painters "Painters View " show this piece took 3rd Place. This was painted in Tubac last winter. I had made a trip down there to drop off some paintings and was determined to paint while there. It was so cold- I was able to finish up just as the started to sleet on me. My car temp. said 28 degrees, to you guys who live in cold country that's nothing but to a desert girl that is just plain COLD. Phil Starke was the judge so it really menas a lot to me to have his OK. Check out his work and his newsletter that is very helpful to artists at www.philstarke.com He is one artist who happily gives to other artists rather than try to keep his "secrets of painting" to himself like so many others do. This is an oil, "Arizona Winter Wonderland" .

American Impressionist Society-Saks Gallery

2009-10-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

"Early Frost" 24"x24" oil- "Award of Merit" American Impressionist Society show at the Saks Gallery in Denver

While I was home recovering and moping that I could not attend the reception for the AIS show at the Saks Gallery in Denver-(friends were all there having fun)- I got the word that my painting "Early Frost" won the Award of Merit and the judge of Quang Ho !!! It is a prize that includes paint from Vasari Paints- I am so excited about it. My little painting a snow scene- sold and the proceeds from it go to the Food Bank of Colorado. Funny how when you win an award you just can't wait to go out and paint again. I hope to be up to it this weekend. I am just now feeling like a normal person again- not my usual energy level yet but that will come. I am trying to get caught up now and will have some fun assignments for my students next week. Thanks for your patience-

New Starts- New Beginnings

2009-10-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

Back to the real world. Surgery over and now recouping. The down time is forcing me to slow down, to read, see friends and the cancer free state has allowed me to start planning ahead. The Catalina workshop was a blast. Not only did we get to paint on the shoreline, sunshine, cool breezes, all wonderful, but each of the students seemed to connect with each other. They are already making plans to paint together. My goals for that weekend were not just met but went over the top. An art workshop should be more than just skills. It should invigorate you, open up new friendships, move you to see differently and just have fun. For my students: I will be posting suggestions for you or "homework", each is designed to help in one or more the basics of painting. If you do a search on my blog putting in the word "starts" you can begin with that exercise.

Catalina Island beautiful as always

2009-09-22T15:53:00.000-07:00

Back from Catalina Island, teaching a workshop, and painting several new pieces. The students could not have been more fun and easy going. Often in a group there is someone who really doesn't want to learn but argue, not in this group. Each one tried to put to use what they were learning, and the views from shoreline of the marina are stunning. The air is clean and clear, sunshine each day, colorful flags & sea kayak, shoppers, frozen bananas- all good. The 51st Art Associations Festival had a nice variety of paintings, jewelry, and ceramics.

Estes Park Paintings /Plein Air in Colorado

2009-09-08T16:59:00.000-07:00

Three more paintings done at Estes Park Paint-out at the end of August. The far left is an 6"x8" , the other two are 11"x14" oils on board. Contact the Earthwood Gallery in Estes Park for purchase information.

Colorado Painting-Estes Park Plein Air

2009-09-07T17:43:00.000-07:00

Some days you just find the ideal place to set up your easel. Cool air, no bugs, no wind and a wonderful tin roofed old barn. I know this is a cliche motif but I know why artist's love to paint these old barns. They represent lives of hard working people in the past. There are stories and a history with each one that we won't ever know. They are a sign of someones dream and hard work. Each year I come back to the Boulder area I wait to see this barn appear as I come around the bend in the road, always afraid there will be condos instead. I don't care if it's cliche or common place, for me it was full of mystery. That is my new umbrella- it is great. So far it has not blown away.

Estes Park Paintout-Earthwood Gallery

2009-09-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

Wow does Colorado do August right! When the daytime temps are around 82 degrees- that makes summer a lot easier to handle. After some serious computer problems now ironed out I will have images of all my paintings that I finished while in the Rocky Mountain National Park to show. They are all at the Earthwood Gallery in Estes Park. At the end of painting period all the artist's came in to turn in their works. A quick draw was held on Saturday morning- with 90 minutes to get down in paint the scene before you. I love and hate these events, very stressful with no time to scrape off and start over. You really have to go with what you know. The pieces are then held up in an auction. What did I learn from this trip? That I need to work on painting figures in the landscape, cars in the landscape and cows. Seems simple enough but each of the subjects are unique and when done wrong they scream off the canvas that you have no idea how to paint them. Painting in a landscape that is so foreign to me was hard, and a struggle to get the greens not muddy and not emerald green, but with subtle value changes. I also identified 4 different types of pine trees- each with branches that hang from the main trunk in a different way- and that silhouette is unique for that type of tree. Not only did I get to paint amazing beauty, I also was able to meet up with other artists and share stories. My next post will have all my newest paintings that you can find at the Earthwood Gallery in Estes Park, Colorado. If you are interested in knowing more about them you can call the gallery and ask for Ron or Ann.

Painting Road Trip

2009-08-07T18:45:00.000-07:00

Road Trip 2009

Painting New Mexico, Estes Park-Colorado, and Catalina Island

August 16-18- New Mexico
Albuquerque & Santa Fe

August 19-29^th- Estes Park, Colorado
Artists are to paint with in

50 miles of downtown Estes Park. All painting are framed and turned in

on Aug. 28^th. A Quick Draw will be held in downtown Estes Park from
8:00 to noon,
then an auction of the wet pieces will be held. My host gallery is the

Earthwood Collections on Elkwood Ave. You can call them with questions

about my freshly finished work. They will also be posted on my facebook
and blog.

Sept. 19, 20^th - Workshop on Catalina Island
Always wanted to try your hand at plein air? Here is a lovely

place to start. You can chose one or all 4 sessions of my workshop

allowing yourself time to snorkel, shop, eat, and enjoy the
51^st Annual Art Festival in Avalon
Check my website for all the details. For novices and studio painters
looking to paint from life.
&

While on this summer Road Trip my new work will be posted

on my blog and on my Facebook page. Paintings will be posted as completed.

www.carrillopainting.blogspot.com

www.cindycarrillo.com

602-686-7939

Lifes Interruptions

2009-07-27T17:14:00.000-07:00

I like to be in control, I like to think I have all areas covered and several different plan B's ready to go. Then you find your self waiting for the doctors report and realize AGAIN that we are not in control. I received good news in that a tumor that has to come out- is beguine- I can start planning again, and try to remember- God is in control. Surgery ahead, so I better get to work. Here is "Early Frost" 24"x24" oil on canvas that was selected for the American Impressionist Society juried show in Denver, Colorado. It opens in Oct. In a couple of weeks I will be heading out to New Mexico and then Colorado for painting frenzy. Watch my facebook for updates & photos of my "Road Trip" series.

Baby Penny= just bragging

2009-07-15T19:46:00.000-07:00

I know, I know you aren't suppose to post personal stuff, not very professional of me. But isn't Penny the sweetest? Now I know what all the fuss is about being a grandma. A good friend of mine gave me a little sign that says "what ever happens at grandmas never happened" When a new baby comes into the family everything else just seems so
meaningless and silly.

Picking a Paint box- Open BoxM, Guerrilla /Judsons Art

2009-06-20T09:03:00.000-07:00

Picking the right travel paint box isn't always easy. It is a project that ends up being trial and error, what works for one artist may not be the best for you. I have two favorites. Both are strong, well built, easy to use, and come from great companies. The top picture is my Open M Box. It is so well crafted, light weight, fast to put up. You can get a cool carrying box but that was too heavy for my purposes. This attaches to my tripod in seconds. It will hold fairly large panels too- and if you need a bit large you can use a small bungee cord to keep the panel steady.

www.openboxm.com is the website, all the easels are made by hand so expect a fast turnaround. I think for the quality the price is very fair. This easel should last me my lifetime and then I will pass it down to someone else who better take care of it! This is a family owned small business in Cody, Wyoming. There are all kinds of cool extras you can get too- not needed but fun-
The other easel photo on the right is from Judson Art Supply. It is a guerrilla box and they mean it. This is by far the most sturdy of any paintbox I have seen. This one is the cute thumbox, 6"x8" and perfect for when you want everything to fit into one box, and you are painting on small panels. The little devise you see are what allows you to paint on 4"x6 or 5"x7" or 6"x8". It's great and it hold my wet panels, brushes (cut down) spirits, paint. You can sit in a cafe, paint and no one notice. If you use the spirits from Gamblin called Gamsol no one can smell you either!
If you can try out a friends box, if they trust to enough. But even if you bought one of these boxes and didn't like them you would have no trouble selling them to another artist. But I really think if you plan to paint from life, and you should, you will probably want a couple different types of paint boxes for different scenarios. This summer when I head out to paint New Mexico and Colorado both boxes will be in my truck. When I head to Catalina Island for my workshop both will go on the ferry. Each for a different reason. Check out both website and give them a call with questions, both companies excell in customer service.

Painting on Catalina Island-

2009-06-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

On Sept. 18, 19, and 20th the Catalina Art Association will be hosting it's 51st Annual Art Festival. Last year I was asked to be one of the judges for the painting category for awards. We had such a good time so back we go but this time I will be teaching several different sessions of workshops in oils and watercolor. You can sign up for one or all the sessions. This will allow you time to have a great time in the wonderful little village, enjoy the Art Festival, and paint too. The classes are geared for the novice painter and for the more experienced painter who may be used to working indoors in the studio. Painting outdoors is a whole different deal and it can really make your experience a much nicer one with someone to guide you. Check my website for more details or write me with any questions. Sessions start at $45.00 a piece, there will also be a small kit available for those people who might be flying in, or just don't want to buy a lot of art supplies. Let me know your situation and we can make it work. Catalina Island is about an hour off the coast of L.A. and accessible by ferry. You don't need a car, and everyday is casual day. Can't beat that!
Session 1: Friday 9/18 3:30pm-
Session 2: Saturday 9/19 9:00am-11:45ish
S ession 3: Saturday 9/19 3:30pm-
Session 4: Sunday 9/20 9:00am-11:45ish

Estes Park & Earthwood Galleries Colorado

2009-06-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

Estes Park Paint-out - August 29- Sept. 30th on display

After several nervous days waiting I finally heard that I will be going back to Estes Park this August to participate in their fun paintout. The Earthwood Gallery will be my host again which I really enjoy. Ron and Ann Wilcock are just nice people who really care about their artists. The picture above is the piece I finished during the 90 minute Quickdraw. A dear lady in Hawaii purchased this piece. I plan to stop along the way and paint in New Mexico, Santa Fe and Taos especially. If you want to keep up on the pieces that I finish along the way and the paintings that I turn in for the Awards competition in Estes Park keep watching my blog.

Also, it is back to Catalina Island this September. I plan to hold several painting sessions/classes during the Catalina Art Associations 51st Annual Art Festival. the dates are Sept. 18,19,20th, 2009. You can check my website for more information. For those who are flying out or are new to oils I will have kits available for you to use. You can sign up for only one session or all of them, just depends on how much time you have on the Island that weekend. You will still go home with some fine little finished paintings of your trip to Catalina. Cindy's Website

Prints of my Oil Paintings now Available

2009-05-22T17:47:00.000-07:00

I am excited to announce that there are reproductions of several of my original oil paintings now available. The prints are of pieces that are not in a gallery or have already sold. The company that handles the orders can send you a print on high quality paper or even on canvas. These are not originals but they are an affordable way to own artwork that has already found home! Check out www.cindy-carrillo.fineartamerica.com to find my page and the images. New choices will be going up all the time. I am working on a set of florals to add to the page since those seem to be real popular right now.
Enjoy!

"Violet" at the Phippen Art Show in Prescott

2009-05-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

Because I manage the website for the Arizona Plein Air Painters I get to see all kinds of wonderful artwork. One of my painting friends lives in Prescott on a working ranch. Marla Smith has first hand knowledge of her subjects- cows. When I saw this piece I fell in love, not only with "Violet" (check out those eyes) but with the command of the brush that Marla has. It is better to put down your strokes with confidence, not bit by bit or over and over. This solid brushwork gives the piece real freshness and shows the artists control of her paint and brush. Marla will be showing at the Phippen Art Show at the Courthouse in Prescott on Memorial Day weekend. You can also see more of her work at www.marlasmith.com

Arizona Does too have Seasons

2009-05-14T11:12:00.000-07:00

As our summer is coming down on us fast I have been looking at the winter scenes I completed this year. The desert is amazing in the cold of winter, snow on mesquite trees, ice in the washes, where in a couple of months the dust will rise up from the heat. We do too have seasons, those who say otherwise just are not very observant. Our desert is ever changing it is a challenge to try and get what I see and feel onto the canvas. The next couple of months there will be blossoms on the cactus, white flowers on saguaros, brilliant pinks and reds on the mammalaria. It is getting hot but not hot enough to not be able to paint anytime of day. This painting was done down by Tubac in February. Before I was done sleet was hitting my hat and the fog covered the mountains. Since I am a cold weather whimp I finished up when I couldn't feel my fingers. If you have not been down to The Farm at South Mountain you better head down soon before they close up for the summer. The sweet peas and hollyhocks are in bloom and the sunflowers are reaching up to the sky.

Crazy times

2009-05-05T09:21:00.000-07:00

I have been most negligent in postings here on my blog. Life has got in the way, and in a good way. As much as we set our schedule, for domestic life, painting, friends- times come up where you just have to toss all that aside and not get frazzled. In the last month I have become a nana to the sweetest little girl (Middle child Michael see his blog) and become a mother-in-law (again this time my oldest son Tony- see his blog). We are prepping for the big wedding and partys that go along with all that. Not much time for painting- that would have really bothered me in the past but now I realize we need to savor the moments with our family while we have them. During one brief afternoon while down at the Farm I did this little piece. The view is from the Artist Studio looking towards Mayas Place- and her organic garden. Sorry for the blur- I was tired. If you don't have time to paint your usual size - don't even try- do starts, or a little piece like a 5"x7" or 6"x8". Don't even try to finish- just get down color notes. You can always go back into them if need be. If your life is just way over the top right now, no time to bring out the paints, then just be very observant. Study your surroundings, layout in your head the composition for a painting, what temperatures do you see. Many times I have put my work over my family or friends, and usually regret it. Do that too often and you will not have any family coming over to see you and you will have plenty of alone time to work. See, I have learned something as I age gracefully!

Portals & Pathways at the Mayo Hospital, Clinic

2009-03-22T15:13:00.000-07:00

Much of the time when I paint it is to create good strong paintings that will be entered into competitive shows, hang in a gallery for sale, or done for an event or commission. I recently had the chance to paint for an entirely different reason and it was a wonderful experience for me. The series of paintings are called "Pathways & Portals" and they are hanging at the Mayo Hospital in Phoenix. There is no reception, no ads placed, no judging done and no price tags. The sole purpose is for the pleasure of the patients, doctors, Mayo staff and families that work there. The Mayo Clinic and hospitals are some of the top locations in the country that people come to for medical care, they are beautiful well thought out places with the primary concern being the patients comfort. Even with that, when you have an appointment at the Mayo, it is usually because you are seriously sick and are looking for the best care you can find. Most people are nervous, their family members try to act unafraid and that it is no big deal, and each spends a great deal of time waiting. With this in mind I painted this series of pieces, each one with the idea of taking the viewer away for just a moment. Not trying to make a statement, not trying to force you to see my view or shake you up, just pleasure. What totally surprised me was that it actually was a release for me, a pleasure, many moments of having a different motivation when putting the brush to the canvas. I always love to paint, I am challenged by juried shows, it is total joy to do this as my job. But, to paint with the sole purpose of trying to see through the eyes of the viewer , not mine was amazing. I tried some compositions that are very different for me, perspectives that are not in any of my other paintings, I learned so much. Painting for a non-profit, or a piece that you will not get any sale from, is a very good thing to try. Let yourself focus on what the viewer might bring to the canvas, that it is not all about you trying to express yourself- what I cool thing. If you get this sort of opportunity, say yes. No, you won't get your "moneys worth" but you will find a new direction and a wonderful motivation that is much bigger than you.

Desert Wildflowers

2009-03-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

Wow what a busy month this has been, it is already spring and the desert is just starting to bloom. My own yard is covered in wildflowers of yellow & gold. If you can go out for a drive the next couple of weeks and see for your self, head up the Hwy 60 towards Superior or down to Picacho Peak to see tons of blooms. This picture is up at Mays Point in the Superior area, taken by Paul Wolterbeek from the Arboretum. Enjoy!

Arizona does too have snow!

2009-02-12T19:42:00.000-08:00

We are really getting the snow this year, more than I can remember in a long time. When you paint from life you soon learn that you don't have much control of your subject- a lot like life- and I have learned to paint what is around you. It is not that important what the subject is, but how you handle the subject. Dead looking trees and snow in winter can get real old after several months. But take a fresh look at what might seem ho hum to you and make it wow to the viewer. Knowing a subject toooo well can be a handycap- we put down what we know is there and tend to be much less observant. When ever possible put your self in not the most idea situations- too hot- too cold- too windy- and start and complete a piece in one session. Stay fairly small in size - use larger brushes than you are comfortable with- and really look- notice- if you see the the little cool things about a scene so will your viewer. Turn you canvas in a direction you would not have chosen right off the bat. The artist's that really catch my attentiion seem to be the ones who do a subject just a little differently- they forced me to see new- be one of those artists- remember- not all our paintings are keepers but they are all a learning experience and a good thing. This painting is of the area around Peach Springs up on the Indian Res. it is called "Need Chains?"

Hassayumpa River Preserve

2009-02-11T06:13:00.000-08:00

There is an oasis in the desert just this side of Wickenburg that you have probably missed. Usually folks are on there way to Vegas, or to Wickenburg and pass right by the sign just 3 miles or so before town. The Hassayumpa Preserve is cared for by the Nature Conservancy and is a natural lush river habitat with colorful changing seasons. For the last several months members of the Arizona Plein Air Painters have been painting there to capture those seasons getting ready for a show to be hung on Feb. 28th. We hope to show visitors some of the visions that we as artists saw and had to stop and paint. This is another example of those lovely places that we need to keep natural, to save from the home contractors. This piece was done by Dawn Sutherland, she has her studio in Jerome, Az. Her work has a light touch, almost like a pastel, sutble value changes and it captures this place so well. Artist's will be out painting the grounds (8:00am) on Sat.2/28 morning, meeting up with wet paintings ready to sell and show at(2:30pm) . Make sure to visit Wickenburg, it has good food, real old west ranches, and incredible scenery. Should be a great day. www.nature.org www.arizonapleinairpainters.com (paint-outs) .http://homepage.mac.com/artbydawn/Menu9.html

Snowy Landscapes at Artistic Mystic

2009-01-12T09:10:00.000-08:00

"Southwest Winter", that is the title of a show I have comingup to help me celebrate the fact that my work will be in the February issue of Southwest Art Magazine! Am I excited , you bet. I have gone through the pages of that magazine for at least 10 years enjoy and learning from the artist's works and from the articles. To actually be mentioned is just crazy. And they called me, at first I thought it was about my subscription which I thought I had already paid up. To find out they are putting my work in a piece about Landscape painters and Snow was just so great. Deborah Silvis is hosting a show for me at her gallery, the Artistic Mystic in Chandler, AZ. It is inside the center on the NW corner of Warner & Alma School. The painting will be hung up this week with a reception on Saturday, Jan. 24th at 4:00pm- 7:00pm. This slide show ( which I just learned how to create from Tony) shows as example of some of my snow paintings. More will be added by the end of the week. If you have any questions please call me or Deborah. She will have a price list and more info. There will be little pieces at a very reasonable price and several large paintings that are thick with paint. Enjoy and please come by to see the show if you have a chance.
Artistic Mystic www.artisticmysticgallery.com Open Tues- Sat. 11Am-6Am 480-917-4566
Reception Saturday, Jan. 24th 4:00pm www.cindycarrillo.com 480-820-8111

AZ State Park Plein Air Paint-outs Show

2009-01-01T18:19:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite places is the Boyce Thompson Arboretum near my hometown of Superior. As soon as I saw this pastel painting done by my friend Linda Dellandre I knew immediately where it was, I have played under this tree as a child. It is a lovely old giant sycamore down by the picnic grounds. This painting is one of the many pieces that will be hanging down in Tubac at the Presidio State Park for the Gallery show of all the winning paintings from the 2008 Plein Air Paintout series at the Az State Parks. If you are a fan of our State Parks you will love the paintings that have been done this year beautifully displaying Arizona. Tubac is on Hwy 19, south of Tucson. It is a great day trip with lots of history, the San Pedro River, art galleries, good eats, and wonderful views in every direction. The painting below was done by Geri Acosta who lives in Tucson and just loves painting Arizona. The new series of paint-outs will begin on Jan. 10th at the Presidio in Tubac at 12:00pm. All artists are invited to participate in the State Park series. There will be a reception at 4:30 and where you can meet the artists. You can check out the AZ Plein Air Painters website and the calendar page for the locations and dates of all the paintouts. If you have never done one
of these don't be put off by the competition. It is very casual and a great way to push your self. It is great to see how the other artist's saw the view you see but sooooo differently. Start of this New Year by challenging yourself, get out and paint and take the chance of others watching you. Believe me, it isn't as bad as it sounds. And you can't let that stop you. You can also get info at www.azstateparks.com on the Plein Air link.
If you have any questions please write me at contact@cindycarrillo.com. Oh, and Happy New Year!

Small Studies-Snow Scenes-Southwest Art

2008-12-18T03:24:00.000-08:00

Though I love the challenge of painting snow, I don't really enjoy standing in it, my feet turning blue and numb, feeling like I need to hurry so I can get warm. But, the good thing about that is I am forced to make the call, make a decision and get that paint down right the first time. I painted last spring in Santa Fe in early March. It was so cold, my last day there I painted in Hyde Park which is 10 miles uphill (colder) outside of Santa Fe. The snow was knee deep and I was so cold. After watching others who seemed to be not as cold as I , it became quickly apparant that I was not dressed right at all. My boots are desert boots, not snow, I wore jeans, which the cold went right through. The painting I did that day actually turned out to be real good. Mainly because I didn't spend one minute of time overworking it. Snow is falling in northern Az. now so it looks to be a good snow season. I will head up for more painting, dressed hopefully more prepared! The finished pieces will be in a show at the Artistic Mystic in Chandler. Deborah Silvas is having me as a featured artist to celebrate my paintings being shown in the upcoming Southwest Art Magazine. This Feb. issue will have 8 artists and their snow scenes, and I am fortunately one of the artists chosen. I will post all the winter scenes in the show on my website and on this blog. This little gouache painting is of one of the old lovely missions in New Mexico. Christmas is next week, hard to believe the time goes by so fast. I realize that all I can do it paint a dim reflection of what I see out there. But I hope that reflection sparks a wonderful memory, or creates a new one for you the viewer. Merry Christmas, sit back a bit and appreciate all that you have been blessed with.

FMinus Comics- Growing up

2008-12-09T09:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my oldest son Tony's birthday. On any of my kids birthdays I pull out the baby pictures and go over them carefully. They make me both cry and laugh out loud. You always hope for your children that they will have a great future and find someone to love who loves them too. My middle son Michael has certainly done that. He is married to a childhood sweetheart and they are expecting their first child ( my first GRANDBABY!) To see them happy and building their own lives is very satisfying. My daughter, Roni has just started college and her and my almost daughter Katie are getting ready for finals, and growing up fast. I watch them learn to love, get hurt all the ugly stuff along with making good life decisions. My kids are now my friends, people I can trust and confide in, who support each other and me in wonderful ways. Tony is getting married this spring to his high school sweetheart and Andy & I couldn't be happier. If are still deep into the "teen"years" going out of your mind with your kids let me give you some hope. They do come around. When the Jeckle and Hyde years are finally over you will have wonderful friends and it is all good. Oh, and this silly picture is of Tony in his studio creating his comic- FMINUS. Check it out in your newspaper or go to his website www.fminus.net You can read his blog at spreadthefword.com
He also has a new book of his comics coming out this spring- his last book is available at
Changing Hands in Tempe, and Borders anywhere. Happy Birthday Tony

Your Own Style-

2008-12-01T18:30:00.000-08:00

Artists have been coming down to check out the Farm and painting there. The grounds are surrounded by old oleander trees, there are no sidewalks, rows of seasonal vegetables, it's all good. I have asked artists to send me pics of their paintings done here. Everyone's experience painting is different, we will all be hit with something different. To see each artists view of the Farm is a great learning experience and a treat to the eyes. This little colorful piece was done by Geri Acosta from Tucson. She is a gal that just moved to Arizona, knew no one, but has made many friends and has jumped right into life here in Arizona. I so admire her no fear way of getting at life and I think her paintings really do show her personality and even her take on how to jump and and go. So often your artwork will speak volumes about you, maybe more than you really wanted to say. But those you may not even know you can tell a lot about your view on life, your way of handing issues. Not always of course but if your work is truly you, and you have not just adapted another artist's style, it will say much about you. That is having your own style. It is not something that you decide ahead of time, which unfortunately is what art schools often push. How can you have a style when you are just learning how to get the paint off the palette and onto the canvas?? I know this gets old, but, Just Paint!!

TPAPS show in Tubac, Arizona

2008-11-24T13:08:00.000-08:00

This weekend was the opening for the Tucson Plein Air Painters Members show held at the Tubac Center of the Arts. If you have not made it down to Tubac it is so worth the trip. Great art galleries, good food (margaritas at the Old Tubac Inn), B&'B's, spectacular scenery, historic buildings lots to paint, antique and bookstores. Here is myself and two art friends, Geri Acosta (won second place), Beth Ray from Tucson. Both wonderful painters and just good people. The show is very solid and well hung. I won an Honorable Mention for a snow piece, I'm happy! Check out www.tpaps.com www.tubacarts.org
Geri's website and blog- www.geriacosta.com

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