Chapel of Love I | 5"x7" | oil on hardboard
Chapel of Love II| 5"x7" | oil on hardboard
This is a small commission for a friend. She is giving it as a wedding gift to a couple who were recently wed in this lovely church in upstate New York. The church sits on a the edge of a lake.
I painted the more detailed version first, and then decided to do a version that was a little more loose and painterly. There are things I like about each version. I'd be curious to know which version you prefer, and why.
Hmmm... they are both very good. I think I prefer the second, more painterly one; it seems a bit softer and more atmospheric, perhaps ties in with the romance of the title in that way. Or maybe it's because I admire the kind of painterly brushwork that I can't seem to pull off myself.
ReplyDeleteThnaks for the link; I'm honored!
Hi John. The first one fits better into your body of work because of its sparsity and stark contrasts, reminiscent of Edward Hopper. I am pleased to present you with the “A Passion for Art” award to acknowledge the impact your work has had on me. You’re one of the people I want to be when I grow up. In the spirit of sharing, I would ask you to pass it on to seven other artists who have “a passion for art” and, if you wish, to list seven things you love. See my blog to get a thumbnail image of the award and see a list of the other artists who inspire me. Thanks for your art and keep up the good work.
ReplyDeleteGood morning John,
ReplyDeleteOf course I like both paintings and admire your talent, but for me the favorite one would be the first one. I like the neat, tidy, clear look. As far as the "romance" goes--well I would say the first one tells me the love is sure, positive, and not afraid to move on together as one, while the second one is apprehensive and a bit unsure of the decision that is being made. A lovely gift idea either way! I know it will be one they hopefully have on their wall for 50 plus years.
Hi John, I like them both but if I had to choose I'd say the second one is my favorite. The reason, I think, is because the details are there, but the edges are a little fuzzy - just like most memories! It's easier to see what you want to see in the second one, which, I believe, is one of the great things about art. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteAndrew Wolgen
Hi John, of course my favorite would be the second one because it is more dreamy and surreal, just like dreams. Life isn't black and white, or hard, unyielding edges, there are a lot of grey areas and blurriness that we wade through everyday and I feel that when I look at number two. As always, you gave an excellent gift for someone to cherish for their lifetime.
ReplyDeleteMolly
John, to me these two are a perfect example of a 'study' versus a 'painting' in traditional studio terms, even though you did the 'study' second. I prefer the first one, but either one makes a beautiful wedding gift. What a great idea.
ReplyDelete