Welcome from JJP

-By John Jude Palencar

I’d like to welcome everyone to the “Muddy Colors” blog. Hopefully this will be a place of informative and enlightening information not only about illustration but the the arts in general. Maybe even a bit of mud slinging will occur! Who knows? Many of us have our feet in both camps – the field of illustration and personal gallery work. An overview of this group indicates a preference for traditional methods for creating paintings. This does not mean we are not open and aware of other avenues of expression and technology – we prefer paint to pixels. All of us are well-seasoned pros in the field of illustration, art direction, art instruction, mentoring etc… and we have consistently produced award winning work over the years. We don’t pretend to know everything but will share our views, our accomplishments, limitations, knowledge and philosophies in regard to the ever changing field of illustration and the arts. Sure – we’ll show in-progress work, where the work will be exhibited, tips, techniques and everything else associated with our experiences creating images. For patrons, fellow professionals and art students there may be opportunities to meet and attend any number of workshops, exhibitions, conventions and appearances by the participants of “Muddy Colors”.

Personally I don’t like to display my in-progress efforts in the studio (more on that later) but I do have a few thoughts in regard to a life in the arts. In some cases these thoughts are like the spaces between the brushstorkes. Painting pictures can be a rewarding experience and can also be fraught with pitfalls and discouragement. The thing is you have to be tenacious and passionate in your efforts. In the coming months I hope to direct you to various points of view that I think are noteworthy. I will also share some of my personal experiences and in general, pontificate on any number of subjects related to the arts. Let’s face it…There’s a lot of crap on the net but there are many individuals that offer sound practical advice and have noble intentions. I hope, in some measure to inspire an appreciation for the creative spirit and its humble origin’s.

Robert Hughes

For your perusal – Robert Hughes – was the art critic for Time Magazine.

This man does knows what he’s talking about in regard to the state of the arts. He has produced a number of outstanding documentaries for the BBC and PBS. They are: “American Visions”, “The Shock of the New” and “The Mona Lisa Curse”. These can all be viewed on YouTube and are well worth watching. Most of these television documentaries have companion books published by Mr. Hughes and should be a part of any artist’s required reading. Knowing ourselves and our place in the larger world of art and creativity…. these documentaries offer a source guide to the artist and illustrator.

TWO MUDDERS: Jon Foster and John Jude Palencar will be showing thier work in a group exhibition.

See links below:
http://www.gallerynucleus.com/
http://www.gallerynucleus.com/gallery/exhibition/249