Objects of Desire

Bitter Sweet

2012-01-24T12:06:00.006Z

Richard Hearns - Bitter Sweet, Still Life in Lemon and Violet - oil on canvas.
Still Life in studio 7 at the Art Student League of New York 2012.

This is the second still life painting I created in the studios of the Arts League of New York since my arrival here. The piece was completed over a week ago now.

Ideas of the old and new world crisscross in this painting. My concept for the piece was a concentration, a more contemporary cropped image with a strong focal point. I wanted the light and colours to dance so I pulled colours out of the objects and created a halo like atmosphere. Notes of paint and strong shapes sing out.
The application is 'painterly' and vibrant.
Hope you enjoy this offering.

- Richard

This piece with be reserved for my upcoming New York Solo Show.
For advanced reserve and purchasing please contact info@richardhearns.com

Painting with the Masters.

2012-01-22T00:46:00.007Z

'Classical arrangement in Green, Red and Orange'. - sold

The other day I had the opportunity to chat to a another real American Master painter - Harvey Dinnerstein. Harvey is in his eighties and still has the energy of a school boy! That chat was so important to me and I learned so much from listen to him. Harvey thought my work was very strong and interesting. He gave me great advice and encouragement. He talked of New York City and what it has to offer an artist like me. I'm going to take hold of it with both hands!

I am really endeavoring to push myself which each painting in regard to application and how I handle paint. I know with this first piece I choose to paint quite traditional composition. I felt I could use it as a catalyst to propel me into painting again as it reminded me of how I might have set up a narrative with Still Life Objects, but I am not after an over romanticism of the scene. No longer painting objects, I am painting paint. Painting colour, notes of colour.

In the style I imagine as the Dutch masters such as Rembrandt we have been working in a near total dark studio with a little natural light that streams in through fogged windows in the north corner of the room. As the morning progresses the scene or stage before me is cast with light that 'flows' over it. I worked strong on my concept of colour movement and how I might like to allow the painting to be read through texture and colour notes in pleasing ratios.

After two weeks painting at the Art League of New York I am really settling in.
I have had the opportunity to meet with my tutor Gregg Kreutz about three times during that two week period. We discuss at the easel for about ten minutes during each encounter.
I paint from 8.30am until 12.30am each day and have been considering following that with some afternoon sessions, but the city has so much to see so I try and paint as well as I can and concentrate my efforts to produce and create well during the mornings.
I have created near four finished pieces in the past two weeks. Looking forward to show you these art works over the coming weeks.

Best wishes from a snow covered New York City. - Richard

Richard Hearns - Detail from 'Classical arrangement in Green, Red and Orange'.
Still Life in studio 7 at the Art Student League of New York 2012.

This piece with be reserved for my upcoming New York Solo Show.
For advanced reserve and purchasing please contact info@richardhearns.com

Eat, Paint, Sleep

2012-01-13T15:00:00.001Z

What a week it has been!
My days start early as I head out from Queens towards Manhattan on the Subway.

West from Queens, early morning.

I exit the underground to be greeted by the beautiful red bricked Carnegie Hall. I then take a left northwest towards central park, the Arts League of New York is located just there off 7th Avenue.

Carnagie Hall.

Training and meeting with a master painter at the Art League has been a great experience and I look forward to many more creative days spent there. The studios are primed and brimming with history and energy. You can smell the oil paint and turps the minute you enter the vast building.

Paint covered Tables, Chairs and Easels make me feel right at home.

I am working with a group of painters under the tutelage of Gregg Kreutz - a very famous American teacher and a painter I greatly admire.
Gregg visits us twice weekly and makes his way around the group to each individual to discuss ideas around our painting. I find him so informed, quick and a real gentleman.

Photo of Gregg Kreutz painting plein air in New York City.

For me, as I listen to what Gregg might have to say regarding my work I feel it is as much about what he doesn't say - whats written between the lines - a deeper message. He might talk to you of how you notice 'silence' one morning when everything is quite and when that silence is disrupted by something small it may very well be the only thing you can hear is that noise. He talks of phenomena like this and how that sort of worldly phenomena can relate so really and readily to painting. Being in a place like this which so many passionate artists consolidates and reaffirms in me the notion that painting 'Is Life' itself.

It is that engagement, that total commitment that I am after to fulfill each day.
Since taking up my palette on Monday I have two near finished still life paintings. The first being a very traditional old masters style composition and the second more bold.
This mornings session was really interesting as we worked in the near total darkness of an early winter morning. The studio is lite by a natural soft light which makes its way through cloudy fogged out windows.

- Richard

New York New York!

2012-01-08T14:54:00.000Z

Arriving in New York is a whirlwind experience! The minute you step outside JFK intentional airport you are meet by a quickening pace, yellow taxis and colourful voices.

Whisked off at lighting speed by our driver we arrived in Queens, the most diverse place in the world. Over 135 different languages are spoken here in this borough! That represents over seventy five percent of the worlds peoples. Its just so colourful! A cultural melting pot.

I brought many sketches and references as well as near completed pieces for my shows here in New York this coming March but I just can't wait to get out here in the city to paint. I am seeing opportunities for compositions everywhere and the weather has been mild and bright with beautiful morning and evening light. The bizarre thing is the light here that breaks through as a spot of colour at the end of an avenue or street reminds me somehow of a Rembrandt. That beautiful coloured note against all this other colourlessness of concrete, asphalt and glass.

So tomorrow I pick up my palette to commence my work at the Art League of New York.

The beginning of a new chapter in my artistic development.

- Richard

(photo above by AnnMarie Walker)

New Year in New York New York!

2012-01-01T08:39:00.000Z

Above - The Art Students League of New York.

Firstly I want to wish all my family, friends and collectors from near and afar a very happy, peaceful and joy filled New Year 2012! Thank you all so much for all your encouragement and support of my work in 2011.

Over the past few months I had been playing with the idea of studying under a master painter at an academy of art. I began my search in Florence and spent some time enquiring about academies, classes and teachers but to no avail, I was not satisfied with the type of training given and thought the academic system there too constrictive for me at this stage of my personal and artistic development.

As many of you know I have spent little time with a teacher and would be considered largely self taught as a painter. I felt that at this stage of my career I would only benefit from being able to have a dialogue with a teacher and other artists. My time spent painting from life at the Royal Hibernian Academy definitely pointed to this. Even though there is no tutelage a dialogue exists with other artists at all different levels of ability and progression and I have found this comforting, interesting and evolutionary.

Then it hit me! During my last trip and exhibition in New York I had the chance to visit a very famous school of art called The Arts Students League of New York. Ken Park, The League's communications officer kindly meet with me and gave me a tour of the school as well as an introduction to The League's current Executive Director Mr. Ira Goldberg. I was really amazed at the school and the number of courses on offer from week to week. So it occurred to me that with my planned upcoming exhibitions in New York at the end of March why not pack up and spend some months with my wife getting to know this most famous city and enjoy all it has to offer. I immediately began correspondence with the school and tutors and have been excepted to join the full time day programme. We fly out to JFK international airport on January 6th and I will begin at the school on January 9th!

The League is housed in the most fascinating French Renaissance building situated on West 57th Street in Manhattan. The College was first established in 1875 and many of my favorite painters both living and past studied at this school, the most notable in my mind being Robert Henri but also include George Bellows,Yasuo Kuniyoshi, Roy Lichtenstein, Georgia O'Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, Norman Rockwell and Mark Rothko.

The school's motto, and the one I will be adopting during my time there is "Nulla Dies Sine Linea" or "No Day Without a Line".

I am so excited and looking forward to share with you my work and development over the coming year.

- Richard

Below, a photo of Artist Yasuo Kuniyoshi in discussion with Art League students 1948.

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Introspective, Self Portrait

2011-12-27T08:48:00.005Z

Introspective Self Portrait - oil/panel - 7"x5"

Since the launch of my last show one month ago I have done little painting with exception of one day of life painting a week at the Royal Hibernian Academy. This 'time off' has been of great benefit to me and has allowed me room for reflection and introspection as well as the chance to plan for future projects and further creativity.

I painted this self portrait some months ago from a photo I had taken in 2006 one night on the forest side of the island of Koh Mak in the eastern gulf of Thailand. I spent many seasons on that island developing my art work in a consistent frenzy of creativity. The reference by which this painting was made must have been taken after a days painting. In some ways this painting reminds me of a little gem of a Rembrandt self portrait. Rembrandt often made self portraits with his eyes in shade but they still seem to convey so much inner emotion. (see below)

The East Wall Currachs Project

2011-12-16T10:06:00.005Z

'Plaining the Lats!' (pic by Des Moriarty)

I know its been a couple of weeks since I last posted on the blog.
The finishing and wrapping up of my last solo show along with two other very different creative project has kept me busy! My only chance to paint over the past weeks has been at the Royal Hibernian Academy and I have really treasured those hours.

The first project in which I have been involved is a most interesting one - A Currach Boat Building Project, which is taking place at the East Wall Water Sports Centre in Dublin.

This Traditional boat building project is being lead by my great pal Mark Redden. Mark has resided in beautiful Barcelona for the past three years and works as an artist and boat builder. We met first at the age of seventeen and ended up in art college studying together and have remained wonderful and supportive friends ever since. In 2006 we lived and worked at our studios at the Mantua Art Project Centre in Roscommon, it was there in our workshop that I was first introduced to Mark's love and skill of boat building.

I am so pleased to be able to allocate the hours of work needed to see this project through and with the help of a number of dedicated and creative people including Gilda O' Laoire (Designer/ Cabinetmaker), Des Moriarty (Photographer) and Rosie O'Reilly (Fashion Designer and Founder of Re-Dress).

You can follow the evolution of this very special project on the East Wall Currachs facebook page.

Looking forward to filling you all in on this second and very exciting project of mine in the not to distant future. Until then I want to thank you all for your interest, comments and support and wish you all a very Peaceful, Happy and Joy filled Christmas and New year.

- Richard

The Artist's Tools and Extended Exhibit

2011-12-11T21:00:00.007Z

The Artist's Tools - oil on canvas - 14"x12" - sold

This is the most recent Still Life piece I have made and it was created in front of the Portmarnok Art Group as part of a demonstration and discussion I gave a few weeks ago.
The Portmarnok Art group have kindly invited me to give lectures and demonstrations for their group over the past few years and I feel I am really getting to know them all now individually and always have enjoyed our discussions and interactions.

As many of you know I qualified as an art Craft and Design teacher in 2004 at the National College of Art and Design, NCAD but at that stage had decided that I would continue being a dedicated full time Artist as it was my calling. I do however find it very rewarding to teach groups of interested painters from time to time as well as help individuals with there portfolio preparation and painting. So, if there are any individuals that feel they might enjoy having a dialogue with me as regards their art work or any art groups out there that would like to learn from me please do feel free to send me a mail.

My most recent Exhibit that opened on November 26th looks like it will be extended for a week or so. The show has had a huge turn out and a great response which really is a positive affirmation for me when you consider the current economic climate and how shows have been going in Dublin in general. Its always extra special when so many people purchase your work for their private collections. As Robert Henri said 'The greatest honor you can do an artist is to buy his picture and hang it in your gallery'.
My sincere thanks to all for the wonderful words of encouragement and to all who came along to the opening and to all of you who have visited the exhibit.

Am busy this last week working on a very interesting, engaging and different project, so look forward to share this with you in the coming days as well as some very special news about my next port of call.

- Richard

The Red Shed Door auctioned by Sothebys London

2011-12-04T12:16:00.006Z

The Red Shed Door - oil on canvas - 18"x15" - sold

This Landscape painting of mine went under the hammer on Saturday night in London. The piece was auctioned by Sothebys London at The Irish Fund of Great Britain Christmas Ball.

I created this piece around March of this year in Co. Mayo. Its is an interpretation depicting the shed in the back garden of my cottage. This little shed which was surrounded by foliage and creepers had the most beautiful deep cadmium red door and a huge wasp hive inside connected to the wooden roof lats.

The reserve started at €2500. Can't wait to hear what it fetched.

- Richard

My Painting Hero

2011-12-01T07:57:00.011Z

Yesterday I posted a link on facebook about Joaquin Sorolla who is one of my very favorite painters of all time and promised to write something about a few of the many things I feel attract me to his work and painting methods.

There are so many things about his work that I admire and aspire to that I found the idea of where to start writing about him quite impossible!

Then this morning I sat with my parents to watch a short documentary about a wonderful friend of mine called Sabine Menassa from the Lebanon. In the Documentary Sabine said that 'technique without passion and improvisation is nothing' and that's when it hit me - Sabine had just summed up in one sentence exactly what I feel really good painting and creativity is all about!

In the past I have written about a 'gut' reaction I feel when confronted by certain works of art and how these pieces of work go far and beyond technique or illustrative flashiness.

Again and again I see highly rendered and finished paintings with a photographic quality or realism and after a moments engagement am left feeling empty apart from the fact that the technique grabbed me for a moment or the idea that - wow that looks just like a photo!(which it's not)!

With these pieces the treatment and application of paint is uniform throughout. The paint is applied by the artist in the same way - to landscape and figure, to natural organic objects as to the inanimate and there is I find nowhere for the viewer to get in. The whole story has been told so to speak.

Just look at the brushstrokes in Sorolla's Self-Portrait, 1912 above. The gusto and bravado. The fluidity and energy they encapsulate. These brush strokes tell of the true story of the artists intense scrutiny and passion while also communicating an immense knowledge of technique and handling of paint.

- Richard

Exhibition Launch

2011-11-28T15:05:00.010Z

Donal Mc Neela of the Oisin Gallery did the honours of opening the exhibition.

Myself and Carey Clarke PPRHA.

My wonderful parents Frank and Margaret.

Ms. Rose O Connor, Dia Musleh and myself enjoying the celebration.

My wife Rapeepan on the left enjoying a giggle with Ms. Gillian Evans.

Above are a few pics from the launch of my show.

Thanks so much to all who came by to celebrate with me on the day and to Angga Amituhu for these photos.

Special thanks to Donal Mc Neela of the Oisin gallery who gave the most wonderful opening to the exhibition and to my beautiful wife Rapeepan (or Boo for short) and her great Thai pal Bon who did the most wonderful job on food and drinks for all. We had a huge turn out and only one fruit stick left at the end of the evening not to mention the wine crate!

The show runs now at Malahide Library until December 9th for anyone who has yet to see it and would like to call.
Opening hours are:
Monday to Thursday 10am to 8.30pm
and 10am to 5pm Friday and Saturday.

Coffee Pot and Pear & Expo Details

2011-11-22T20:39:00.009Z

Coffee Pot and Pear - oil on canvas - 12"x10" (tribute to Kreutz) - sold

Just about to leave this morning to begin the set up of my exhibition. I am very excited and am sure to be working on the display until late Friday night.

Above is a very recent piece which will feature in the show. I really enjoyed creating this painting. The photo gives you some idea of the textural quaility of the piece.

The launch of my 'Objects of Desire' show happens this Saturday at 2pm in Malahide Library. Donal McNeela of the Oisin gallery Dublin will be doing the honours. Hope you can join come me in this celebration.

The exhibition runs from Saturday 26th to Friday December 9th 2011.

Opening Hours are:
Monday to Thursday: 10.00am-8.30pm.
Friday & Saturday: 10.00am-5.00pm.

- Richard

'Objects of Desire' - Exhibition Invitation

2011-11-19T14:56:00.009Z

(above - 'Hebe, composition in Purple and Ochre' - oil on canvas - 12"x 10"- sold, click on the images above to enlarge).

You are invited to join me for food and drink at my next one man show entitled - 'Objects of Desire'.

This exhibition of Still Life paintings Officially Opens with a Lunch Time Reception at 2pm this day next week on Saturday 26th of November 2011 at Malahide Library, Main Street, Malahide, Co. Dublin.

The show will comprise of richly painted large and small observational Still Life paintings as well as a selection of 'Cameos'. The shows narrative will run from beautifully classically composed still lifes to more recent contemplative and contemporary investigations.

These Still Life paintings are charged, atmospheric and mysterious, communicating form, light, tone and colour relationships combined with a beautiful and rich application.

You can get pricing and reserve any of the available pieces before the commencement of the show by contacting me at info@richardhearns.com or by reply to me through this blog group address or on facebook.

This exhibition runs from Saturday 26th of November to Friday December 9th 2011.
The Show will be officially opened by Donal Mc Neela owner of The Oisin Gallery, Dublin.

Hope to see you there to celebrate together.

- Richard

Autumn River

2011-11-18T10:04:00.003Z

Autumn River - oil on panel - 7"x5"

For Purchase information please contact, info@richardhearns.com

Her First Sight of the Atlantic

2011-11-13T19:01:00.005Z

Her First Sight of the Atlantic - oil/panel - 7"x5"

For purchasing information please contact, info@richardhearns.com

Keel

2011-11-10T16:59:00.004Z

On Keel Beach, Achill - oil/panel - 7"x5"

Majestic Pine

2011-11-06T14:48:00.006Z

Majestic Pine - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

For Purchasing please contact info@richardhearns.com

2011-11-03T09:14:00.012Z

Something a little extra special for you today!
Visit my RHA 'Drawing Inspiration From Life' blog.
'Nude', by Richard Hearns
(tribute to Richard Schmid)

Window

2011-10-28T11:05:00.003+01:00

Window - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Stone Wall, Country Road

2011-10-24T11:26:00.010+01:00

Stone Wall, Country Road - oil on canvas - 40"x30"

More than two years in the making, I remember beginning this large canvas piece after a walk on the green road in the Burren, Co. Clare.

I continued to work on this piece during my second residency at the Cill Rialaig Project in Co. Kerry and was in fact filmed by the RTE nationwide crew putting some definition to the stone wall in the short documentary of January 2010.

Since arriving back in Dublin a couple of weeks ago I again decided to put this large piece back up on my easel and see could I work to bring the painting to some sort of a conclusion.

Last Wednesday I had the chance to catch the end of a talk given by Charles Tyrrell at the R.H.A. He mentioned a very real thing that happens to a painter in the way that even though you are creating a piece, the painting ultimately has a life of its own, and that in some ways you are just there to help it into being!

I have found this idea to be very true indeed - The painting really does communicate with you (in a sort of silent dialogue) and when it is finished you just have to get out of the way. If there is any doubt - you know you must continue with the piece even if that means putting it aside 'to breath' for some time and returning to it later to see what it might communicate to you. Charles was made a member of Aosdána in 1982 and has had a retrospective of his work held in the R.H.A. Gallery in acknowledging the journey his work has taken. Currently there are a selection of his works from a new series at the Academy.

Might post an image tomorrow of the 'under painting' early on during this pieces evolution for you to see. I am really happy with the way this painting has turned out, from its bold composition, to its feeling of place, depth, space and light - Hope you like it.

- Richard
For Purchase information please contact, info@richardhearns.com

2011-10-24T11:25:00.000+01:00

Here on the left as promised is an image of the 'under painting' of this large 40"x 30" inch canvas piece entitled 'Stone Wall, Counry road'.
As I use no drawing at the beginning of a painting this gives you a good example of how I might block in my idea of the overall composition and movement of a piece along with an indication of the various tones.

- Richard

Path

2011-10-19T10:12:00.005+01:00

Path - oil/panel - 7"x5"

For Purchase information please contact, info@richardhearns.com

Lone Tree

2011-10-17T08:53:00.000+01:00

Lone Tree - oil/panel - 5"x5"

For Purchasing please contact, info@richardhearns.com

Burren Hay Bales

2011-10-16T12:33:00.004+01:00

Burren Hay Bales - oil/panel - 12"x9" - sold

This piece was created in a field across the road from my cottage close to Ballyvaughan village in Co. Clare around August 2010. In the background of the composition you can see an impression of the Aillwee limestone mountain landscape that is famous for it's beautiful cave system.

The light and colour that morning was radiant so I concentrated my efforts on lush brushstrokes on and around the hay bales to represent and capture this as best I could.

- Richard

The Red Sash Window

2011-10-14T10:17:00.007+01:00

The Red Sash Window - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Spent last weekend in the town of Kinsale, Co. Cork - its a town that I would like to get the chance to spend more time in. The village itself is unlike any other Irish village I have ever seen due to strong Spanish, Norman and English influences.

We took a spin out to neighbouring villages along the south west coast and I managed to make two small paintings there. This piece above is a tribute to an Irish painter called Cecil Maguire - I met him once during a trip to the village of Roundstone in Connamara.

Since returning to Dublin from Mayo I have been really busy making figurative paintings both at home and at the Royal Hibernian Academy as well as working on some large pieces in preparation for my coming exhibition in November.

Will get back into the swing of things now with the blog and promise to keep you updated.

- Richard

The Golden Oil Bottle

2011-09-29T08:33:00.002+01:00

The Golden Oil Bottle - oil on canvas - 10"x 8"

Singular and fluid brush strokes best described the hi key notes of colour that rang out.
The surrounding atmosphere and luminosity of the golden oil bottle was registered by soft strokes as it sat bathed in morning light from my studio window.

I had a recent visit from artist Mick O 'Dea RHA to my studio. He liked this piece very much commenting on the juiciness and fullness of colour that I managed in its application and orchestration.

- Richard

The Orange Chair

2011-09-22T16:57:00.002+01:00

The Orange Chair - oil on canvas - 20"x16"

I love the rest of my life
Though it is transitory
Like a light azure morning glory.

- Tomiyasu Fusei / Tr. Yuzuru Miura

The Artist's Smock

2011-09-21T17:01:00.007+01:00

The Artist's Smock - oil on canvas - 30"x24"

This piece to me has an almost palpable monastic feel to it. I suppose in many ways my life and work has had this sort of other world factored in from the outset. My drawings of robed figures in my early childhood and then pieces which developed into to the more transcendent 'figure in landscape' paintings created during my time spent in the far east have this echo of other worldliness.The famous artist and teacher Robert Henri (1865 - 1929) referred to 'records of states of being' that reveal the possibilities of greater existence. He said ' The picture is a by-product of such states as it is in the nature of man to desire. The object therefore is the state'.

The concept of cool blueish whites of the shirt and the warm ochre whites of the wall give this piece a wonderful play of passages from cool to warm to cool. I find my eyes jump back and forth through the varying temperatures. This I feel gives the piece an excitement and strong atmospheric quality. I hope you like it.

Last Friday I left my Mayo studio and cottage near Westport Quay and came back to Dublin. Over the next couple of months I will work towards my upcoming show in Malahide this November and my two New Yorks shows which are scheduled for March 2012.

Just returned today from a life painting session at the Royal Hibernian Academy. It is great to get back to painting with a model from life and to share a space with other artists.

- Richard

The Ink Can

2011-09-17T19:19:00.003+01:00

The Ink Can - oil on canvas - 18"x 14"

Still Life with hanging Brush

2011-09-14T10:21:00.003+01:00

Still Life with hanging Brush, composition in Ochre and Blue - oil on canvas - 18"x14"

'The object isn't to make art, it's to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable'. - Robert Henri

(Detail Below)

Ochre

2011-09-12T12:15:00.001+01:00

Ochre - oil on canvas -16"x 12"

'The object, which is back of every true work of art, is the attainment of a state of being, a state of high functioning, a more than ordinary moment of existence. In such moments activity is inevitable, and whether this activity is with brush, pen, chisel, or tongue, its result is but a by-product of the state, a trace, the footprint of the state'. - Robert Henri

The Artist's Pot and Paints

2011-09-09T09:57:00.003+01:00

The Artist's Pot and Paints, Composition in Ochre and Grey - oil on canvas - 30"x 24"

Over the past months a new body of work has been emerging. In many of my observational still life paintings I have been concerned with design and balance - a richness of colour and painterly application as well as creating a strong focus, not to mention an overlying concept and atmostphere to tie the whole piece together.

During a walk in the burren over a year ago I was struck by the idea of how I might allow the space around a singular object to become just as an important element as the object of reference itself. I do realize that the space has had this important role in my art works all along - but giving further consideration and thought to the space could only prove to strenghten my investigation.

I'm excited, and look forward to introducing you all to this new body of works over the coming weeks!

- Richard

(Detail below)

Goblet and Plum

2011-08-23T16:17:00.005+01:00

Goblet and Plum - oil on canvas - 16"x 16"

Yet another painting that has been an age in the making.

With this piece I concentrated on creating a strong atmospheric quality by using many different elements and pictorial devises including most notably - light and shade, varying edges and highly textured descriptive and expressive brushwork.

(Detail Below)

Composition with Multiple objects and Lemon

2011-08-21T13:22:00.009+01:00

Composition with Multiple objects and Lemon - oil on canvas - 16"x12" - sold

I began this piece last January as a demo to a school of over two thousand gawking Thai students! Distracted as I was I did manage to complete one or two smaller pieces during the two day seminar but never got a chance to complete this piece.

It has gone through several transformations since its conception and proved very frustrating at times but eventually I managed to bring it to some sort of a conclusion. The painting remains multi layered and textural with the strongest focus being the burst of cool colour and light that is Lemon Yellow.

See Detail Below.

The Navigator

2011-08-19T10:23:00.002+01:00

The Navigator - oil on canvas - 24"x20"

'Ready am I to go, and my eagerness with sails full set awaits the wind'.

'Only another breath will I breathe in this still air, only another loving look cast backward,Then I shall stand among you, a seafarer among seafarers.And you, vast sea, sleepless mother,Who alone are peace and freedom to the river and the stream,Only another winding will this stream make, only another murmur in this glade,And then shall I come to you, a boundless drop to a boundless ocean'. - Khalil Gibran

Hebe, arrangement in Purple and Ochre

2011-08-16T09:23:00.006+01:00

Hebe, arrangement in Purple and Ochre - oil on canvas - 12"x10" - sold

Here is another piece that I have been working on for some time. Again, this piece was originally started about a year ago in my studio just outside the Burren village of Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare.

I am proud that I managed after so much time and consideration to finally have brought this piece to a quite 'brilliant' finish, with it's strong sense of design, balance and focus not to mention multiple textures and varied applications of paint.

Above is an example of how I currently frame these pieces.

Hope you like it - Richard

Coffee Pot with Buttercups

2011-08-12T14:32:00.005+01:00

Coffee Pot with Buttercups - oil on canvas - 12"x 9" - sold

This arrangement in blue and yellow has taken a long time to pull together. I started it at least a year ago during my time in the Burren Co. Clare. The butter cups that feature were found around my garden in Ballyvaughan.

I paid particular attention to the quaility of light on the fabric and creating a sense of space. The grapes were added to the piece more recently creating a triangular balance within the composition.

Old Silver Tea Pot

2011-08-11T13:37:00.007+01:00

Old Silver Tea Pot with garden flowers - oil on gesso panel - 12"x9" - sold

As many of you know I delight in completing a painting in a single sitting, but over the past year or so through further development within my practice and processes some studio pieces I feel need extra consideration.

Over the next couple of weeks I'll be concentrating on posting some larger scale observational studio pieces that have been 'in flux and development' over the past year or so. These art works have just come together for me over the past week through insights. I suppose the time was just right for a coordinated coming together of learnt and gleaned ideas as well as inspiration and the impetus to get them right.

This piece was recently created (in a couple of sittings) at my cottage in Co. Mayo. I Love the variety and assemblage of brush strokes and scumbles that I layed in to describe the Silver Tea Pot and how this reflective quaility of the old tea pot is thus communicated. (see Detail Below)

Hope you like it.
- Richard

On the Quay

2011-08-03T21:03:00.008+01:00

On the Quay - oil/panel - 12"x9" - sold

Returned to this subject and scene that I had painted previously close to my studio just before my recent New York Exhibit.

To my amazement I found yet another sort of triangular arrangement and the light was perfect, so I set to work only to find that I had forgotten my turpentine! I called into Eileen and Liam's, the Westport House grounds keepers who live close by. They kindly gave me some turps from their garden shed - problem solved!

Completed a very finished piece there and then and brought the painting back to my cottage and studio for the finishing touches.

Hope you like it - Richard

Mountain Paths

2011-07-30T11:32:00.005+01:00

Mountain Paths, near Clifden - oil/panel - 12"x9"

'On a road toward Clifden I cut a path of colour gold and warm,
Through a mountain soft and kind that spoke to me as if we were one.
The same being in different disguise'. - Richard

For Purchasing please contact Anne Merrins at The Whitethorn Gallery, Cliften, Connamara, Co. Galway. Gallery Phone + 353 1 (0)9530703

Light over a Bridge, Westport House

2011-07-26T10:38:00.004+01:00

Light over a Bridge, Westport House - oil on panel - 12"x9"

'I am seeking for the bridge which leans from the visible to the invisible through reality'.
- Max Beckmann

Above is my most recent plein air oil painting of a bridge on the grounds of Westport House.
I have returned to this bridge now on three occasions to make small oil studies from different vantage points.

The bridge is a wonderful symbol and metaphor of human accomplishment and endeavor.

- Richard

See photo of the painting in progress on location below.

The Bridge, Westport House

2011-07-21T12:13:00.009+01:00

The Bridge, Westort House - oil/panel - 7"x5"

During some recent reading on various artists I admire I found that the use of small panels has been in use on and off throughout of the history of painting. More recently artists like Sir John Lavery, (20 March 1856 – 10 January 1941) an Irish painter best known for his portraits used panels much like the panels I use for my 'sketches in oil'.
Lavery's small oil studies on panel, finished paintings as they are, helped him work out compositions for larger pieces.

The idea that I too walk out into the landscape with my bunch of small boards is a quite romantic notion for me. But above this notion that we endeavored to capture special and very personal moments it proves that to catch these fleeting effects of light and to help in tuning application and concepts - the sketch in oil is an amazing way to improve and discipline yourself to 'see' more clearly.

- Richard

Windblown Tree. Old Head, Co. Mayo

2011-07-20T21:49:00.000+01:00

Windblown Tree- oil on Belgium linen on board - 7"x5"

A beautiful afternoon spent out on Oldhead with my buddy Gilda O' Laoire - walking in the ancient oak forest and the beach, and of course painting.

Gilda is a talented and very gifted cabinet maker here is a link to his blog - http://gildasolaoire.blogspot.com/ . Thanks for the pics Gilda! Hope those oak saplings are taking root :)

Plan to re - post some images over the next few days of paintings I have come back to work on.
Will then slot them into place on the blog http://richardhearnspaintings.blogspot.com/ close to the dates they were created.

- Richard

Across the Bay

2011-07-19T12:19:00.004+01:00

Across the Bay - oil on Belgium linen on panel - 7"x5"

Each day I walk passed this point on the bay where a far distant mountain is hugged and framed by two distant sloping hills.
Gestural brush strokes best described the landscape and western sky across the bay.
It can be fun to return to a place you mean to paint and have developed a strong concept around how you might describe the scene.

- Richard

Dawn, Killary Harbour

2011-07-16T14:08:00.005+01:00

Dawn, Killary Harbour - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

'An author knows his landscape best; he can stand around, smell the wind, get a feel for his place'. - Tony Hillerman

I couldn't help but think of certain paintings by Paul Henry as I composed this piece.

Am I seeing through his eyes? I am surly studying the same wild landscape, a contemporary reverberation!

The painting above is "Dawn, Killary Harbour (1921)" by Paul Henry (oil on canvas)

- Richard

Misty Morning near Béal an Átha

2011-07-12T11:03:00.010+01:00

Misty Morning near Béal an Átha - oil/panel - 12"x9" - sold

On the road that leads towards the north west coast of County Mayo is a wildly beautiful landscape of blanket bog, heather, moss and peat exists. The place has an incredible expansive lost and faraway feeling.

I used the creation of this piece above to experiment with creating a strong feeling of atmospheric distance as well as an opportunity to experiment with varying edges.

Thinking again this morning of Robert Henri I found this quote - 'A mountain seen in the haze of distance must nevertheless look a solid heavy mountain'.

- Richard

Warm Light, West of the Bog, Achill

2011-07-06T11:27:00.008+01:00

Warm Light, West of the Bog, Achill - oil on panel - 12"x9"

Since arriving in Co. Mayo last year I have found countless subjects of inspiration in and around the majestic bog lands of Achill island. Achill, as many of you may know, has a strong connection with painting as one of Irelands most iconic painters Paul Henry (11 April 1877 – 24 August 1958) worked there for many years.

The piece above allowed me the opportunity to work towards capturing the unique quality of light to be found on the island. Through the use of this light the scene I found also presented me with a chance to experiment with atmosphere, distance, edges, colour harmony and temperature.
In retrospect the over all composition reminds me vividly of a piece I created in about 2006 which featured a robed figure ( a recurring motif in my early work) in the far distance as he wound around the path which lay before him.

A few weeks ago while visiting a friend on the island I had the opportunity to meet with a local man who had been studying the art works and history of a less known American painter and teacher Robert Henri (25 June 1865 – 12 July 1929). Henri had worked on Achill island intermittently from 1913 . This man knew of a couple of people still living on the island who as children sat for Henri to compose portraits, and of the gentleman who had stretched canvases for Henri while he lived and worked on the island.

During my recent New York solo exhibition I called to a gallery on Park Avenue and to my delight was brought into the store rooms to see a portrait created by Henri of a native Irish girl from Achill island. These portraits which were created by Henri on Achill are absolutely beautiful and most sought after on the international art market.

There are many inspirational artists and past masters which I admire, but for me Robert Henri has to one of the greatest modern thinkers, teachers and creators. I will be sure to study his work and teachings over the coming years to add to my knowledge and love of Art.

- Richard

Lone Tree

2011-06-29T17:54:00.003+01:00

Lone Tree - oil/panel - 12"x9" - sold

'There is no art without contemplation'. - Robert Henri

Evening Light over Thatch

2011-06-26T13:15:00.005+01:00

Evening Light over Thatch - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

For Purchasing please contact Anne Merrins at The Whitethorn Gallery, Cliften, Connamara, Co. Galway. Gallery Phone + 353 1 (0)9530703

In Green Pastures

2011-06-20T11:38:00.004+01:00

In Green Pastures - oil/panel - 7"x5"

Created this oil sketch right up by the old barn close to my cottage.
I had to work quietly, fast and fluidly to capture the scene before me.
No time for sketching here.

Particularly happy with the way I described the cow in a very few strokes of the brush and in how I created a focus and dealt with background.

(will post a better image of the scene in the coming days)

- Richard

The Barn Roof

2011-06-19T12:10:00.005+01:00

The Barn Roof - oil/panel - 7"x5"

Above is a sketch in oil made early one bright morning last week. The scene is just up the road from my cottage.

Have been concentrating on painting, reading and getting outdoors into the landscape as much as possible during the day, and at night painting in my cottage from sketches I have created.

With this piece I was interested in portraying the almost beautiful rusting roof of the barn as it contrasted with all the greens the surrounded it, the rhythm I found in the shadows falling from the field posts as well as the sky and road as it ran away almost mirroring itself.

My Internet usage has been limited the last couple of weeks as I have given up my studio space at the Custom House Studios until this coming August. So, don't be surprised if my blog posts of paintings created are a little slow coming. I can assure you that I am working away each day creating and developing as best I can.

Below a photo of my easel, palette and paint box at the ready :)

The Boat Shed & Back to Basics

2011-06-12T11:43:00.005+01:00

The Boat Shed - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

So, its back to basics now, working towards further development in my painting and art.
I find the easiest way to do this is to simply dive right back into my painting, which is what I have been doing since my return to Mayo last week from New York.

Every once in a while it is good for me to reflect on what I have achieved in the developmental processes of my work. This in turn develops in me a internal dialogue to which I can respond - a sort of self referral.

Upon my return to Ireland I received a beautiful mail from a teacher and artist who works in the famous Art Students League of New York. His mail was so encouraging, reminding me that "Painting is a journey not a trip, so keep painting and searching for the quality of work you want to produce". I thought the sentiment very beautiful, and it really struck a cord with me in what I strive to achieve through my Art. Thank you Ismael.

Over the past few days I have been enjoying my painting so much. yesterday I worked outdoors all day creating three small studies in oil. The work feels enriched after my trip and experiences in the States.

Looking forward to posting images of new work for you all to see over the coming weeks.

- Richard

New York Opening Night Pics

2011-06-09T14:00:00.007+01:00

Three pieces hang in the beautiful Dillon Hall.

A huge turn out for the exhibition launch.

Everybody enjoying a wonderful night.

Myself and New York Artist and Curator Sean Naftel.

Just arrived back to my studio and the west coast of Ireland yesterday.
It makes a big change from the city lights and enveloping energy of beautiful New York City.

Will post some more shots on my NYC solo show over the coming weeks as well as some future plans and thoughts for my Work.

It was the most amazing experience and has begun to open a whole new world to me as regards inspiration and collectors. Many thanks to all of you who have supported and continue to support me and my Work. It means the world to me.

To see more shots of my wonderful solo expo opening night you can visit my facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150216274067487.338923.563682486

Now its a chance for me to catch up, get back to basics and further develop my painting and Art.

- Richard
http://www.richardhearns.com/?page_id=299

New York City Solo Show Preview

2011-05-18T09:25:00.002+01:00

Preview a selection of the Art Works to feature in my 1st New York City Solo Show here
http://www.richardhearns.com/ on my Official Website.

All Paintings are on available for reserve and purchase in advance on the Official Opening on May 25th by contacting me at info@richardhearns.com , on my facebook page or by phone + 353 1 (0)86 216 1135.

New York Solo Show Invite

2011-05-17T09:30:00.004+01:00

My Solo Show invite for my upcoming New York City Expo.
Please feel free to copy, share and forward this information to any interested partiesboth at home and abroad.

Tomorrow you will be able to preview of a selection of paintings to feature in this show on my Website.

Date: Wednesday May 25, 2011
Time: 5:30pm 7:00pm
Place: The Dillon Hall in the Archbishop’s Office at 1011 First Avenue, 20th Floor.

Show runs until Tuesday May 31st.

All Art Works Will be available for reserve and purchase in advance of the Opening night by contacting me at info@richardhearns.com

Many Thanks - Richard

The Old Boat House, NYC Solo Show & PayPal

2011-05-14T15:22:00.009+01:00

The Old Boat House, Westport House - oil/panel - 7"x5"
(this piece did not appear in the recent New York Expo and is available for purchase.
please email info@richardhearns.com for pricing and additional information.)

or click the button below.

Purchase

I had been walking through the grounds of Westport house, which is situated close to the Quay, for some days before I noticed this small path that lead through the forest towards the back of the old boat house which sits on the bank partly submerged in the water on Clew bay.

As quick as I could I ran to the studio and grabbed up my easel and paints and made my way back to this spot.
I was off the beaten track with no inquisitive passers by. The warm light was filtering through the many trees and the sound of the leaves rustling in the wind made for a magical experience as I painted. The stippled light and colours of the soil, foliage and rusted shed made for a most wonderful subject. I was truly captivated.

Hope to launch images of Art Works to feature in my upcoming New York Solo Expo on my Official Website by Wednesday next for you all to see. I have also finally developed a PayPal 'Purchase' link (see above) which I hope to attach to all my available pieces. This will enable you to make a simple and direct purchase of my Art Work to add to your collection.

Many thanks for all the emails of support and well wishes for my New York Solo Expo.
More details to follow shortly. - Richard

Owenwee Cottage

2011-05-10T16:58:00.007+01:00

Among the Trees, Owenwee Cottage - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Particularly proud of this little study in oils. Definitely captured the atmosphere of light and place. - Richard

Long Shadows in Evening Light

2011-05-08T13:03:00.003+01:00

Long Shadows in Evening Light, Rosbeg, Co. Mayo - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold
Available for Purchase - contact: info@richardhearns.com

Received the some really exciting news and confirmation on my upcoming New York Solo Exhibition.

My Show will be Officially Opened by New York's Archbishop, His Excellency, Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan and will take place on Wednesday May 25th at 5.30pm in 'The Dillon Hall' on 1011 First Avenue, NY 10022.

I would like to take this oppertunity to thank all the staff who have been involved in organising this Exhbition of my Art Work in New York City.

More information on this Solo Show to come over the next week or so. - Richard

The Garden Walls & Bench, Westport House

2011-05-07T20:25:00.005+01:00

The Garden Walls & Bench, Westport House - oil/panel - 7"x5"
(this piece did not appear in the recent New York Expo and is available for purchase.
please email info@richardhearns.com for pricing and additional information.)

What a magnificent experience it has been painting around the grounds of Westport house these past couple of weeks. For this piece I parked myself up on the grass in front of the Caretakers -Liam and Eileen's house, and to my joy I was presented with one of the very best cups of tea and a lovely fruit scone I have ever experienced.

- Richard

Light over the Bridge, Westport House

2011-05-06T11:39:00.004+01:00

Light over the Bridge, Westport House - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Just back from painting in the forests close to the grounds at Westport House, and boy am I happy about that! There is (for me) just nothing that compares to getting out with your palette and easel to start the day.

This piece above was created some days ago at the bridge in Westport House close to the inlet from Clew bay. Men were fishing for trout close by, and stopped to come over to see what I was doing.

The warm light that day was simply radiant, creating beautiful patterns and cool shadows.

-Richard

The Old Curragh, Murrisk Pier

2011-05-04T19:36:00.005+01:00

The Old Curragh, Murrisk Pier - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Just love the design and painterly application in this piece.
Plein air painting forces you to find strong designs in the landscape around you. If those sort of design elements are not there or are somewhat scattered, this in turn forces you to create even more from the elements you do have, and develops in you a stronger awareness and design sensibility.

Editing and or simplifying I feel has to be a big part of any truly successful painting (even a sketch in oil). I keep telling myself to 'distill'. Distill the most important elements in the nature and landscape that surrounds me. I also endeavor to keep my concept and initial inspiration for the piece at the forefront of my mind.

By doing all of the above while at the same time painting 'well' allows me to really learn and grow as a person and an Artist with each painting I create.

- Richard

Cill Cre, Murrisk Pier

2011-05-03T11:16:00.006+01:00

Cill Cre, Murrisk Pier - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

A quick spin along the coast road from my Studio brings you to Murrisk, a small village at the foot of Croke Patrick. Just before the village there is a turn off onto a small bridge that takes you across to an outcrop of land. Its there I found this beached old boat called 'Cill Cre'.

- Richard

Samantha

2011-05-02T09:04:00.008+01:00

Samantha - oil/panel - 7"x5"
(this piece did not appear in the recent New York Expo and is available for purchase.
please email info@richardhearns.com for pricing and additional information.)

Sitting out the back of the old boat yard at the end of the Quay I found this boat named 'Samantha' nestling in the long grasses and surrounded by trees with the reek off in the distance. I thought it made for an interesting composition and subject. With three closely related tones I set the mood and I feel I went some way to really capturing the spring light and atmosphere that seemed to diffuse everything.

Lobster Pots

2011-05-01T11:15:00.004+01:00

Lobster Pots - oil/panel - 7"x5"

Started painting outdoors a few days ago. It is for me the most invigorating way to work - the fresh air, sounds and smells and excitement of what you might find when walking about with your easel and palette in hand, not to mention the challenge that the weather and changing light presents.

The Reddish Pink buoys and semi triangular shape of the pile of Lobster pots attracted me to this scene close to my studio on Westport Quey. My mission was to simplify this quite complex mass, which included different coloured ropes, pots and buoys and into a simplified and unified whole. My concept was to concentrate my efforts into making a strong focal point (the Bouy at bottom right resting between bars) by building the image up from the outset through simplifying the various forms and working the whole image at once so as not to get caught in detail until the final marks.

This sort of a concept enables me to finish the painting 'Alla Prima' - in one sitting.

Hope you like it. - Richard

The Red Tug Boat

2011-04-29T18:14:00.000+01:00

The Red Tug Boat - oil/panel - 5"x5"

Red Apple with Mandolin & Hand Turned Bowl

2011-04-27T16:54:00.011+01:00

Red Apple with Mandolin and Hand Turned Bowl - oil on canvas - 20"x 14" - sold

The past few days have been spent painting outside in the glorious weather that we have been having here in Ireland. Painting en plein air has to be for me the most enjoyable, challanging and rewarding way to create. It's so energizing, and I really feel improvments with every piece I make when outdoors.

The reason for this being that, I find you really have to focus, edit and keep your initial concept and inspiration pure and in the forefront of your minds eye in order for the piece to 'sing' and come across as I envisaged at the outset.

Can't wait to show you all these sketches in oil over the coming of weeks.

This classical still life painting above was started some time ago. Painting outdoors during the day helps me to focus well and I feel fine tuned and loosened up in the evening to work on pieces like this.

Here is a studio shot of the piece in process below:

Classical Arrangement & Export Grant Success

2011-04-14T18:36:00.012+01:00

Classical Arrangement (tribute to Rembrandt and Kreutz) - oil on canvas - 42"x32" - Reserved

For purchase information please email info@richardhearns.com

This large piece was finished some days ago. The opportunity to Work big like this is so exciting and freeing. It transports me right into the piece as I am totally immersed and surrounded by the canvas. The painting was created in a really rhythmical way as regards my brush strokes, notes of colour and its overall orchestration. At no time do I labour in one area. I consistently move my brush around the canvas building up all the various facades and elements simultaneously. I believe the result of this intuitive and largely unplanned orchestration gives a vibrant, living, breathing effect that resonates from the painting. I wish you could see it in real life as the camera and screen never fully realises all the subtle nuances, textures and the overall alchemy that is contained and transmuted.

On another topic I have some great news to share with you all! The Fingal County Enterprise Board have awarded me with a 'First Time Exporter Initiative & Export Grant', to help towards my upcoming Solo Expo which takes place in New York City at the end of May! Can't wait to give you all the details about this show in the coming weeks, and would encourage any young Fingal people with a business plan for expanding existing overseas sales to get in touch with the FCEB. My Special Thanks to Ms. Carmel O' Carroll & Mr. Keith Brock Assistant CEO at the FCEB.

Click on these hi resolution details below to enlarge.

Monochrome Arrangement

2011-04-12T09:15:00.005+01:00

Monochrome Arrangement with Jug, Stout bottle and Biscuit Tin - oil/panel - 12"x9" - sold

Cottage Interior with cut Lemons

2011-04-06T10:43:00.006+01:00

Cottage Interior with cut Lemons - oil on canvas - 12"x9" - sold

Another piece that I began some time ago but have only come to resolve recently.

In fact its over a year since I sat in near darkness at the corner of my pre-famine cottage/studio at the Cill Rialaig Art project in Co. Kerry.

It was colour against colourlessness and the atmosphere of the interior that I wanted to capture. The beam of light coming through the cottage door and window excited me and could not be ignored as I felt its presence would bring a strong sense of balance to the composition.

- Richard

Accordion and the Composers Baton

2011-04-05T18:21:00.001+01:00

Accordion and The Composers Baton - oil on canvas - 16"x12" - sold

Really enjoyed composing this piece. A couple of the local pubs have been interested and kind enough to loan me some really beautiful antique bottles, jars and instruments to accompany me in my studio.

Here is a Studio Shot of the 'Accordion and The Composers Baton' set up while the piece was taking form.

Warm Light

2011-04-04T11:50:00.003+01:00

Warm Light - oil on canvas - 12"x12" - sold

(composition in ochres and blue with brushes, white roses and stout bottle)

Paint Tube and Onions

2011-04-03T09:41:00.003+01:00

Paint Tube and Onions - oil on canvas - 12"x9"

This piece has been in the making for some time now. Over a year in fact! It's not often that a painting will sit in my studio for an extended period but this piece just wouldn't pull together for me. I started to compose the piece in a triangular composition made up of the red onions and a piece of dill herb which lead your eye up into the centre of interest. But all along the composition felt weak.

It took me some time to identify what was not working and to come up with solutions for a better piece. Am really happy with how it has turned out now and how I dealt with problems of colour, space, and how I wanted the painting read in general.

If at first you don't succeed, Try Try again! :)

The Suger Bowl

2011-03-31T10:52:00.006+01:00

The Suger Bowl, (tribute to Chardin and Kreutz) - oil on canvas - 12"x10" - sold

Wanted to share with you my process in creating some of my Classical Style Still Life Paintings.

As you can see below there is little or no drawing involved in the initial stages of the composition. Rather then drawing outlines etc I firstly get a feeling of how I want the painting to read, what kind of light, space and atmosphere I want to create. Then I 'mass' in the objects in a really loose gestural way. They appear to me out of a series of marks which then become more and more defined by means of directional strokes of the brush, how I deal with various 'edges', colour notes and temperature changes within there form.

For Purchasing information please contact me at info@richardhearns.com

'The Suger Bowl' - in process. Click on the image to enlarge.

The Red Shed Door

2011-03-30T09:14:00.009+01:00

The Red Shed Door - oil on canvas - 18"x15"

This is a really beautiful canvas.

Painted in a naturalistic and fluid manner the piece contains beautiful textures and colour notes. It embodies all the things I strive for in a landscape piece - the right balance of light and dark contrasts, colour against none colour, a strong focal point and a feeling of strength and dynamism in each brush stroke.

For purchase information, please email info@richardhearns.com

Cottage Interior with Chair

2011-03-26T18:09:00.004Z

Cottage Interior with Chair - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

The Cottage Window

2011-03-23T22:11:00.009Z

The Cottage Window - oil/panel - 7"x5"

New large scale Works by Richard Hearns

2011-03-20T14:17:00.006Z

Light in the Valley, Leenaun, 2011 - oil on canvas - 24"x24" - Available for Purchase.

Just started to upload images of my New large scale paintings created here at my current studio residency in Co. Mayo.

This piece materialized after a magical journey through the valley which leads to Leenaun village, situated on the northern edge of Conamara.

Please follow this link to my official website to view some of my most recent large scale finished landscapes http://www.richardhearns.com/?page_id=22

For further information on any of my Art Works please contact me at info@richardhearns.com , through facebook or call me directly at + 353 (0)86 216 1135

Many Thanks - Richard

Angel of the Bog

2011-03-16T10:32:00.006Z

Angel of the Bog -oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

This piece was created out among the bog land of Achill island in an area near Shraheens.

The earthy colours that surrounded me were all encompassing. Then I spotted this lone windswept tree - an angel of the bog.

'The angel of the bog mourns in the wind
that loiters all over these black meadows.
Remembers how it chose branches to strum
From the orchestra of trees that stood here;
How at twilight a chorus of birds came
To silence in nest of darkening air.

Raindrops filter through leaves, silver the air,
Wash off the film of dust to release nets
Of fragrance on which the wind can sweeten
Before expiring among debris
That brightens each year with fallen colour
Before the weight of winter seals the ground.

The dark eyes of the angel of the bog
never opn now when dawn comes to dress
The famished grass with splendid veils of red,
Amber, white, as if its soul wrere urgent
And young with possibilites and dreams
That a vanished life might become visible'.

From 'The Angel of the Bog' by John O' Donohue

Storm Clouds over New Quay

2011-03-14T17:20:00.004Z

Storm Clouds over New Quay - oil/panel - 12"x9" - sold

'I want to watch watching arrive. I want to watch arrivances'.
- Helene Cixous

On Keel Beach, Achill Island

2011-03-10T11:04:00.009Z

On Keel Beach, Achill Island - oil/panel - 12"x9"

There are numerous ways in which I start and work through the process of creating a painting.
This process below is in fact a quite structured but organic way of creating a painting outdoors. After composing the painting in my minds eye I take a deep breath and with my brush at the ready begin to translate and distill the atmosphere of the surrounding landscape as best I can.

Limited myself to 45mins for this piece. Working this way I believe creates something totally unique as nothing is laboured over. In fact it all happens so quick that I hardly know what took place and am just left with this wonderfully fresh creation.

My main hope is that a strong sense of the essence of the place is transmuted to the board and captured forever.

- Richard

Achill Cottage Sketch

2011-03-09T15:21:00.007Z

Achill Cottage Sketch - oil/panel - 7"x5"

A quick 15minute sketch in oil to capture the fleeting light and sky over Achill Island.
Simple shapes and singular gestural brush strokes combine here to give the painting its atmosphere. I love the 'lushness' of the brushstroke that describes the light hitting the front of the cottage.

- Richard

On Achill

2011-03-08T12:13:00.009Z

On Achill - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Since my arrival in Mayo I have been taking regular trips to paint on Achill Island. As many of you know the Ulster born Artist Paul Henry spent many years on Achill painting the landscape and people of the island as did the faboulas American Artist Robert Henri.

The sketch above is a quick piece I composed on the island last week standing across from the majestic 'Minaun Cliffs'. You can view the process for this sketch below.

Dying to post the rest of my more recent sketches in oil for you to see so that I can then get to show you the large studio pieces that I have completed.

-Richard

Farm Sketch near Leenaun

2011-03-07T10:24:00.009Z

Farm Sketch near Leenaun - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Over Clew Bay

2011-03-03T10:08:00.012Z

Over Clew Bay - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

A drainless shower of light is poesy; 'tis the supreme of power; 'tis might half slumb'ring on its own right arm. - John Keats

An overcast and sleepy vista from my studio window - one eye open!

On the Road

2011-03-02T13:59:00.003Z

On the Road towards Leenaun - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Created this sketch in oils a few days ago on the road to Leenaun.

Its a magical journey, surrounded by earthy colours of bog land and fields, down to the fjord at Killary and onto the ancient forests close to Maam.

- Richard

Conamara

2011-03-01T11:24:00.003Z

Conamara - 0il/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Of this shy, Conamara day.

The saxophone catches onto

Some riff of murmur,

Deep beneath the roots of the mountains,

Where granite relents, giving way

In tears, to the blanket poultice of the bog.

from Black music in Conamara by John O'Donohue

Composed this gestural and fluid landscape in the heart land of Conamara, on the road towards Clifden (An Clochán)

- Richard

Windswept Sky & Wind Artist

2011-02-28T09:16:00.006Z

Windswept Sky - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Among the kingdom of the winds,

Perhaps, there is one of elegant mind

Who has no need to intrude

On the solitude of single things.

A wind at ease with depth

Of its own emptiness, who knows

How it was in the beginning,

Before the silence became unbearable

And space rippled to dream things.

A wind who feels how an object strains

To be here, holding its darkness tight

Against the sever of air, ever eager

To enter, and with a swell of light

Dissolve the form in its breathing.

A wind from before memory

Whose patience will see things become

Passionate dust whorled into sighs

Of ghost-song on its wings.

'Wind Artist' by John O' Donohue

Through a Landscape

2011-02-26T16:13:00.004Z

From Warm to Cool, Through a Landscape - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

"When time is reduced to linear progress, it is emptied of presence."
- John O'Donohue

Lone Sheep

2011-02-25T08:57:00.006Z

Lone Sheep - oil/canvas - 7"x5" - sold

'You have your ideology and I have mine'. - Kahlil Gibran

The Corner Stone

2011-02-23T08:47:00.006Z

The Corner Stone - oil/panel - 7"x5"
(this piece did not appear in the recent New York Expo and is available for purchase.
please email info@richardhearns.com for pricing and additional information.)

“I want to do drawings which touch people...In figure or landscape I should wish to express, not sentimental melancholy, but serious sorrow.” - Vincent van Gogh

Burren Hay Bales

2011-02-21T16:53:00.001Z

Burren Hay Bales - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

The quality of light and all the various textures that I found in the Burren landscape kept me with an unlimited supply of inspirational subjects. I am finding the same goes for the landscape around south Mayo and Connamara.

The drive to capture these fleeting moments of inspiration through a series of lush brush strokes, scumbled colours and patterns is simply endless. A wonderful task.

For purchase information please email info@richardhearns.com

- Richard

The Monk's Cottage & Richard Oliver Brushes

2011-02-18T08:44:00.015Z

Monk's Cottage - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Received very exciting news on Wednesday with regard to sponsorship from Richard Oliver Brushes.

Richard Gill of Richard Oliver has met with me now on several occasions to discuss my Art practice and achievements to date. He has been very encouraging and supportive to me.

I am delighted to announce that I have now secured sponsorship with Richard Oliver Brushes and will receive their finest range of brushes quarterly from the workshop in exchange for showing them as my sponsors on my blog and website.

A couple of contemporary artists I really admire from the States also have sponsorship deals from some wonderful art material manufactures.

This company which has been in existence for over a quarter of a century is in fact one of the worlds very best Fine Art Brush makers and their workshop is right here in Ireland!

I started using their brushes a couple of years ago and approached the company directly before Christmas with the idea to see how their brushes are made and buy myself some new ones directly. The production is achieved with such care, exact precision and craftsmanship. Each artists brush is individually handmade using only the finest materials.

There is a huge demand for their brushes in the UK, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and the US.

They hope to develop a website soon that I can link to but until then they can be contacted directly for orders. See below.

Richard Oliver
Castlebar, Co. Mayo, Ireland

Telephone: (094) 9022559 Fax: (094) 9022559

Golden Grey

2011-02-16T20:16:00.006Z

Golden Grey - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

My small scale analytical studies and sketches in oil have lead me down many exciting avenues and pointed towards many truths about various processes and developed ways of seeing since first beginning working this way in June 2008.

Before this investigative body of Work began I approached most of my paintings in a very different way, concerned with a very different visual language, equally expressive, but different.

The use of a wide range of mixed media and supports such as photographs in combination with memory brought about an altogether more eclectic experience during the creation of said pieces.

Now I find myself back to a method of working that is quite purely instinctual and progressive and I hope to hold that focus and combine it with all the knowledge I have accumulated from working directly from life.

Perhaps sometime in the next year I will have an exhibition which features Works from every period of my life to see how they have all knit together and produced the artist I am at present.

Of course this is to be continued!

- Richard

Glassilaun, West Coast

2011-02-15T09:32:00.003Z

Glassilaun, West Coast - oil/panel - 7"x5"

(this piece did not appear in the recent New York Expo and is available for purchase.
please email info@richardhearns.com for pricing and additional information.)

Arrived back to Ireland on January 28th to take up residency at my new studio appointment on Clew Bay, Co. Mayo. This wonderful space at the 'Custom House Studios' has been awarded to me until mid May and I am using every minute I can to create Work and further develop.

Space is all important, in fact a space is about the only thing I need to produce Works of Art. When given a space I immediately go about filling it with new Works, experiments and thoughts.

Look forward to showing you all these new creations.

- Richard

Eastern Cove, Westbound

2011-02-14T09:26:00.002Z

Eastern Cove, Westbound - oil/panel - 7"x5"

Art arises when the secret vision of the Artist and the manifestation of nature agree to find new shapes - Kahlil Gibran

For purchase information, please email info@richardhearns.com

Strode out, towards an Island

2011-02-11T18:11:00.004Z

Strode out, towards an Island - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Early one morning as I strode out, easel in hand, along the line of surf, I was greeted by the most wonderful haze filled sky and still reflective water. In the distance, past the lands end sat a vivid blue island shape.

- Richard

Radiant Light through Trees near Rayang

2011-02-09T15:53:00.005Z

Radiant Light through Trees near Rayang - oil/panel - 7"x5"

Into my heart's night
Along a narrow way
I groped; and lo! the light,
An infinite land of day.
- Rumi

I delighted in the creation of this study in oil. Sitting in the shade provided by trees near the beaches end I worked towards capturing the low radiant light that drenched and flickered across the water close to my favorite island.

To purchase this painting please contact me by email to info@richardhearns.com

Red Boat near Rayang

2011-02-07T09:58:00.003Z

Red Boat near Rayang - oil/panel - 7"x5"

“Your life is an island separated from all other islands and continents. Regardless of how many boats you send to other shores or how many ships arrive upon your shores, you yourself are an island separated by its own pains, secluded in its happiness”. - Kahlil Gibran

Islands have been an important symbol and motif in my work for many years now.

There is something about a land mass surrounded by moving tides that struck a cord at a very young age and continues to resonate with me.

How many times have I gazed across at this landmass in wonder? How many times have I scrutinized it intently? I somehow know that this place is an extension of me - like I am gazing at a symbol of myself, a purer me with a strong voice and one clear message for humanity.

- Richard

Contre-Jour Arrangement

2011-02-04T09:31:00.003Z

Contre - Jour Arrangement - oil/panel - 7"x5"

This piece was created one morning on a side street in the old town of Trat.

The glass vase holding the wrapped leaves and flowers was my centre of interest.

In the background across the street you can see the outline of my wonderful bicycle which was given to me by an old friend to help me get about the place.

Later that day I happened to bump into the head art teacher in the largest secondary school in the province and he asked me if I would be willing to give a painting demonstration to the students as part of a 112 year celebration of the schools existence.

The following day I arrived at the school on my bike clinging onto my easel and portfolio case to be greeted by over 2000 students!!

The demos I gave over the two days were conducted under tarpaulin tents in the baking midday heat. The students rotated around the large yard to the various different seminars going on which included dance, boxing, music and games.

I used some photos I had taken from home as a means of subject matter and was delighted with the response of the students and the way the pieces turned out considering all the gawking eyes peeping in wonder over my shoulders.

Mandarin and Inkwell

2011-02-02T17:42:00.010Z

Mandarin and Ink pot - oil/panel - 7"x5" - sold

Painting is the language I endeavor communicate to the world with. When I am unable to say what I have experienced in words or have a visual idea about something I wish to communicate - I paint. It comes from inside me and what I endeavour to do is to not get in the way while those inner thoughts are transcribed visually by means of my brushstrokes through colour, value, edges and drawing. I want each of my creations to communicate something pure to the viewer.

Currently I am interested in the integrity of shapes within my paintings. How to describe something in the simplest way possible? Making form - form, space communicate space and atmosphere and colour just that - colour.

Even in representational painting there is no 'one way' to describe a subject - no limit to the way something can be rendered and still appear authentic.