Pen Brady Art and Design

Night Embrace & Grandmother Spider, 1997

2012-01-18T14:48:00.022-06:00

In 1997, it was a year of changing horses. As mentioned in the previous blog, AeroBison, 1997, Pen's early paintings were done in a traditional Pacific Northwest Coast style. Night Embrace exemplifies this iconic style. Notice the lack of background, as the bat and moon images seem to float on the surface of the paper. It shares little importance to the painting except to provide a ground for the subjects.

This tends to flatten the image and become more iconic in structure. This was the last image Pen created in this style. The next year would bring new directions to her work.

In the second work, Grandmother Spider, the subject is still similar in its traditional visual roots, but the web under the spider begins to tease the viewer with a sense of dimension. It is a shallow depth but it separates the arachnid from the surface of the paper. The mosquito caught in the web adds a bit of "drama" to the scene, again moving it away from classic NWC art.

From this point onward, Pen's paintings begin to become more personal perspectives of her subjects. The backgrounds will begin a role as important elements which will define her unique style and propel her imagination beyond her early aboriginal images.

I have found great delight in watching this process of change. My responsibility for digital preparation allows me to be on an intimate level with these magnificent works. I continue to be absolutely amazed at the creativity that brings these designs into being It is a privilege to work with such a talented artist.

AeroBison, 1997

2012-01-08T21:55:00.005-06:00

I am going to (re)introduce some of Pen's older works, and add a bit of commentary on them to give a bit more insight on her progression. Some of these works are not as complex as her newer works tend to be, but, as with all artists, early artworks give a snapshot of where the artists were and how they got to their point today.

Pen's influence began in the early 1990s with the totemic art style of the Pacific Northwest Coast. Her earliest works were in flavor with animals constructed with common components, such as the split "U", Flicker feather, orbits, human hand

s, and other traditional shapes. Subjects that frequent Tlingit, Salish, and Haida art—crows, bears, orcas, hawks, et.al—also were seen in Pen's work as well.

AeroBison was the first of her paintings to gently break away from those traditions. The animal is still constructed from similar designs, but a new element is introduced—a background. The classic Northwest Coast animals floated on a blank backdrop. In this painting, the subject is defined in the forground by a sun partially obscured by mountain peaks and a suggested prairie of grasses in the background, giving a dimensional feel to the scene. An even more subtle division is the buffalo itself, which is a non-traditional animal for the Northwest Coastal region. The change had begun.

A couple of paintings continued in the old style, but the importance of the foreground/background relationship was born. She had embarked on a new perspective of the abstracted components that creates recognizable images. No creature or plant was out of her reach to develop as her subject in her now unique style.

Oh, and as for that title, if you squint at the image and think of the old Douglas DC-3 twin engine taildraggers of the '40s and '50s, you may see how we arrived at that name. Do you see it? It was totally accidental, but Pen still doesn't think it looks like a plane.

Pádraic

New Year Old Painting

2012-01-06T13:03:00.005-06:00

Wasn't that a catchy title? A combination of a new painting in a new year, and the thing being old and...

Ok, I guess it wasn't that catchy after all. But this image just being available results directly from me not keeping up sometimes with Pen's work. She had completed this Cardinal with intentions of using it for our 2010 Christmas cards. As usual, the holidays got hectic and I never got around to the color correction/print prep for it and it ended up in a storage box. And there it lay for a year before I dug it out and did my magic and it was finished in time for our holiday this year.

But this image is far from being just a "holiday" theme. Right now it hangs on the red wall of our kitchen and will play no favorites to a season. The Northern Cardinal is a year-round resident of the United States, especially in the southeastern section. Because of this non-migratory characteristic, we are rewarded in winter snows with their crimson red, nestled in shrubs and

regular visitors at bird feeders. And, as long as I can remember, that particular morning I hear the, "Cheer, cheer, red, red, red, red,red" song of the redbird signals that spring has arrived.

Sizes and pricing of this and all of Pen's work may be found on her website at www.penbrady.com. Stop by for a visit and be sure to leave a comment or two on what you think of the site and if we can make any improvements to make it better.

—Pádraic

Exhibit at Randy Bacon Gallery, November 4, 2011

2011-10-31T10:08:00.002-05:00

On Friday, November 4th, the Randy Bacon Gallery in Springfield, Missouri will host a solo exhibition for Pen. From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., a reception will be held for the opening during the First Friday Art Walk in downtown Springfield.

This exhibit will feature over twenty original works by Pen, as well as limited edition prints. Some of these original paintings have not been previously displayed and are debuted in this exhibit. The gallery is located at 600 West College Street, Springfield, Missouri. If you can make it, please come and support Pen and her work.

Pen continues her full-time work at creating her intriguing images. Her latest is an acrylic and ink on Masonite panel painting of sunflowers entitled "Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone". In my humble opinion, this is one of her finest works to date. The sunflowers are shown in their fading stage, a unique perspective that is not frequently displayed, yet their beauty is still quite evident. I have scanned the original and have the arduous task of seaming six sections to create the full image for color corrections. Unfortunately, the original will not be available for purchase as this was created as a birthday gift for youngest daughter, Savannah. However, as soon as I get off my duff and prepare the image, limited edition prints will be available around the second week in November.

I hope you are able to come to the Bacon Gallery and visit with Pen and view the exhibit on November 4th. I think you will be presented with an enjoyable evening visiting her art as well as the numerous other galleries and shops open during the First Friday event.

Ahh, Retirement...

2011-10-24T22:24:00.003-05:00

As some of you know, I am no longer at Chase Studio, where I worked for almost 15 years. Now with all this time on my hands, I hope to spend more time doing more "social media", including this blog. Pen keeps working and creating new images while I am still behind preparing them for display and print production. My job is to catch up and utilize the website, Facebook page, Linkedin, and the other tools to help promote those marvelous creations Pen keeps producing. Retirement will keep me busy, I am certain. We have several exhibitions coming up:

A solo show at the Randy Bacon Gallery, 600 W College, Springfield, Missouri November 4th through the 25th.

In 2012, we have two exhibits scheduled so far. In June and July, Pen will be exhibiting at the Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City, MO and at the Cape Nature Center in Cape Girardeau, MO, she will exhibit the month of August.

We are also pursuing the possibility of showing in Denver, CO in the spring. Hopefully, we can fill the coming year with four or five more shows. I am trying hard to get something going in the Pacific Northwest as well.

So, I hope to keep up with all this work in the coming months. Nothing like relaxing during your retirement, eh?

Missouri Life Feature Article

2011-08-02T15:52:00.002-05:00

In the August issue of Missouri Life magazine, Pen has a two-page spread highlighting her as an artist. Displaying four of her works on a page and a very nice article, we hope the exposure will expand Pen's audience and gain a few new supporters. Look for it at your favorite newsstands.

I have recently been laid-off from my graphic design position at my regular job, but plan to spend more time in promoting Pen's work. For those of you that are active in social networking, you understand the time involved to keep things current and moving. Obviously I haven't been totally successful in keeping current, as one can see my last blog entry was in May. But with this glut of "extra" time, I plan to keep things up to date and splash in some art events in the area, all requiring more time sitting in front of this machine. But that is something I don't usually mind doing. Let's see how well I do it.

A Perspective of Nature, the Exhibit

2011-05-03T08:03:00.009-05:00

The Springfield Conservation Nature Center in Springfield, Missouri will be hosting Pen's latest solo exhibit. Titled "A Perspective of Nature," the show features 20 works, of which several new paintings, including an unbelievably beautiful crested iris, will be displayed for the first time. The Nature Center is located at 4601 S Nature Center Way. Exit the James River Freeway at the Glenstone exit and S Nature Center Way is the outer road that parallels the freeway on the south side. The Center is at the end of that road. Hours of operations are Tuesday through Saturday, 8am to 5pm, and Sunday, noon to 5pm. The facility is closed on Mondays. The exhibit will be in the main lobby of the building. This is a display only exhibit and sales will not be made at the Center. You may, however, pick up a business card and artist information at the desk should you wish to contact us on sales of original paintings and limited edition prints. Artwork on display will not be available for sale until after May 29th. Prints will be available at any time by going to www.penbrady.com and clicking on "gallery sales".

After enjoying the display, take a little time to explore what the Nature Center has to offer in the nature exhibits, or take a walk on some of the trails. The SCNC has nearly three miles of trails, a boardwalk over marshy areas of Lake Springfield, and eighty acres of forests, fields and creeks. And best of all, there is no charge for any of the activities at the center. The gift shop in the building will, however, allow you to satisfy your urges to spend some money on books, t-shirts, calendars, and other nature-related items.

So plan to come and spend a relaxing day viewing beautiful works by Pen...and Mother Nature.

Gentle Giant of the Sea—The Humpback Whale

2011-03-20T22:05:00.005-05:00

Growing to 40–50 foot in length and weighing as much as 40 tons, the humpback whale is one of the larger baleen species. Hunted almost to extinction, these giant mammals are partially recovering due to a whaling moratorium introduced in 1966. However, fishing nets, collisions with ships, and even whale watch harassment still threaten population growth.

The complex songs of the male humpback are hauntingly beautiful. Lasting up to 20 minutes, a song can be heard over 20 miles away. Scientists still have little understanding of their function.

Pen's latest image is a tribute to this magnificent animal. Gracefully rendered, the subject seems to glide effortlessly on the surface of the bristol board. Her signature media of acrylic paint and India ink has yet again produced an design with impeccable quality. Measuring approximately 16" x 22", this painting, with its subtle colour palette, is simply elegant. As usual, this is my humble, but highly-educated, opinion which I never seem to be short in giving to my lovely wife's work. Please feel free to ad your own comments to this latest edition to her portfolio. As you probably have noticed, this is the finished art she was working upon in the blog entry early last week. It's really getting difficult to keep up with her work. But that's not a complaint.

On a quick note, within the next couple of months, Pen will be featured in the Missouri Life publication. We are so excited to have that opportunity to expand her work to a broader arena. Our heartfelt thanks goes out to Danita Wood, editor of the magazine, for her support of Pen and other creative people like her throughout the state of Missouri. Visit www.missourilife.com to get a glimpse of the quality of material Missouri Life has to offer.

And last, but certainly not least, Pen will have a solo exhibit at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center located in Springfield, Missouri and opening the first weekend in May. The exhibit will be there the entire month, giving you plenty of opportunity to come see Pen's work "in the flesh". I am not sure whether there will be a formal opening; I will update that event on the Facebook Fan page, so check that out often to stay informed. The center physical address is 4601 S. Nature Center Way, Springfield, MO 65804 and their phone is 417.888.4237

Thanks for visiting and come back often. Bring some friends next time.

Pádraic

Pen Caught in the Throes of Creation

2011-03-15T23:03:00.009-05:00

If you know Pen, you are aware of her aversion to having her pictures taken. So one must be very sneaky and tip-toe into the room and if your lucky, you can get a couple of photos taken before you are politely asked to stop and get the hell out. I tried my luck this weekend and was able to catch her at work before she gave me the evil eye.

Here you get a rare glimpse of a work in progress. Her latest painting is of a Humped-back Whale. The concept is first created on tracing paper. Numerous patterns of design are first drawn in pencil, then the components of the image are moved and manipulated to suit her concept of how it should look. The composite designs are transfered to heavy 4-ply bristol and the paint and ink process begins. Using brushes and rapidograph pens, the colors and lines of the design begin to develop the composition.

When the foreground image is complete, the background shapes are sketched and transfered to the bristol. The painting then has the final touch ups and is completed. Depending upon the complexity of the design, the paintings take approximately 50 to 70 hours to complete.

The precision and finely executed brush work are hallmarks of Pen's work. A stickler for detail, the image must pass her critical eye or the work is discarded or put back in a box with little hope of seeing the light of day again. I have witnessed her dissatisfaction with a painting, shelving it and starting from scratch again. Because it is on bristol, it cannot be painted over as with traditional gesso and canvas works. With several cats in the household, it is imperative to get the paintings on the wall or stored before those little darlings find a way to put a smudge or scratch on the finished works.

So there is a quick little insight on Pen's new work and how she creates her unique art. Please stop by the website to see more of her artwork. I can't wait to see what she does next.

Spring and Flowers

2011-03-12T14:30:00.007-06:00

After a long pause in posting, we return with some new and exciting images from Pen. A brief departure from animals, Pen uses her distinctive style to create one of Nature's showpieces, the flowers. Seems timely that they appear now, as spring is just around the corner.

The first image is of the genus, Commelina and commonly know as a dayflower. Lasting only one day, the bloom is aptly named. The original image is approximately 9" x 12".

The second image is the Yellow Lady's Slipper,Cypripendium pubescens, a native North American orchid. The name arrives from the lower pouch-like petal resembling a shoe. This painting measures about 9" x 15".

The third image, Aquilegia canadensis or red columbine, is one of the first food plants Ruby-Throated Hummingbird's depend upon during their spring migration northwards. If you recall, this plant made an appearance in Pen's earlier painting, "A Quick Kiss and Goodbye", with a hummingbird hovering by it. Measuring 10" x 15", this painting is a delicate portrait of this common garden flower.

As with most of Pen's paintings, they created on 4-ply Stratmore 500 Series Bristol and beautifully mastered with acrylic paint and India ink. The originals will be available in a simple, yet elegant, black frame with a double matt of subtle coordinating colors. Limited edition prints available unmatted on 13" x 19" heavy matte art paper in a clear protective sleeve. For better viewing of images, go to www.penbrady.com.

We have been considering licensing some of Pen's work for other applications, and in my opinion, these new plant themes seem to be a perfect starting point. I can envision flowers reproduced on bedspreads, curtains, wall paper, clothing...there seems to be a world of manufactured items they would serve as good designs. It's just an avenue we know little about but we have been trying to educate ourselves to possibly move some art into that direction.

As I write this entry, Pen is working on yet another design. I can't wait to see what is coming next. Since the last posting, Pen has about four or five new paintings I have not displayed. I still have color-corrections to do on a few, and will be unveiling them soon. I won't wait three months to do so, promise.

A Perspective of Nature - a Book in the Making.

2010-11-08T21:36:00.006-06:00

After setting in hiatus for a couple of years, the book showcasing Pen's artwork has been revived and in the fast lane. Originally titled "Form Revisited," it now is "A Perspective of Nature." That title has been tossed around in several promotions but we decided it fit the directions of the book.

With a short "story" along side of Pen's animals, the reader is given a momentary glimpse into the life of those creatures. The struggle for survival, the celebration of birth, and inevitable death are woven into the images on the pages through these stories, providing "a perspective of nature."

The landscape format of the pages, 13 inches long by 6 inches in width, will provide a small, unique size wire-bound to lie flat for easy viewing. We hope it to be enjoyed by adults and children alike. A hard cover will protect the heavy-weight pages of illustrations. We are shooting for around 40 or so pages for content.

So there is our latest project, or rather, my latest project. Pen adds her input on my designs and writings but is putting most of her creativity in new works. I need to also explore the methods of producing and marketing a book, so if anyone has suggestions or what-to-do's, I am eager to listen. Definitely niece Jennifer will be hearing from me, since she has several books under her belt.

-Pádraic

Moving ahead...

2010-10-16T09:01:00.022-05:00

After my tremendous 1D10T error in deleting Pen's website last Saturday, I have since rebuilt it and have it now functioning well. In my ongoing efforts to improve efficiency on the site, I was redoing the gallery, bio, and a few other elements. I was duplicating pages to reuse backgrounds and navigation buttons and had gained a lot of clutter on the online editor of WIX, out web development provider. I did a "little" house cleaning and began deleting some of those unused pages. In my haste, I had removed a bit more than I had planned, but continued to make changes in the gallery, which was on a different page. I made a few this and thats and saved my work. As I hit the save button, I looked up in horror as I noticed the four main page icons were blank. By the time the shock was replaced with the realization I had to try to stop the save, the dirty deed had been done. Gone, like a fifth of gin. Eyes wide open in complete dismay, I attempted to hit the undo button to try to navigate back through the multitude of changes in hopes I could return to that glorious time when I had all the pages before the fateful key entry. After about 20 minutes of repeated clicks of the undo, I surrendered to the fact that: 1, I screwed up, 2, there are no reprieves in the world for an idiot, and 3, if I had any plans of having a viable website for my loving wife, I was going to have to start over. So, ditching the impulse to drink copious amount of beer and cry like a little girlie, I began the slow, arduous task of recreating what was gone.

When I write, either on this blog, or information on the website, I do it on the spur. No notes in notepad, no backup copies in Word, nothing...nada...just the pure drivel that flows from my age-degenerated mind, flowing though my hands to the keyboard and onto a flat cyberpage in wherever that realm really exists. The WIX editor, where the marvels of web creation occur for me, is completely an online entity, to where cut and paste elements from resident word processing programs will not work. Everything is created and stored there. When an event happens such as (have I called it a stupid mistake yet?) file removal practice, there are no backups to recapture previous work, save for the "undo" button, which in my case, was my undoing.Although the incident was not the most favorable act I would have chosen, it did afford me the opportunity to make changes I probably would have not done during the initial facelift I was intending to do.

The biggest change is the gallery, to which smaller images and less motion effect were implemented to speed loading. Also, for the first time, both sizes of prints are available, and notecards as well. A page for introducing new work is in place, and a links page will continually grow with awe-inspiring artists and drool-inducing information links. Of course, any feedback with constructive criticism to what we can to to improve things is always welcome. Click here to see the fruits of my labor.

A view of our booth at night.

Our participation in the Longview Art and World Music Festival in Lee's Summitt, Missouri during the first weekend in October was enjoyable. Monetarily, we just about broke even, but the exposure was good, made a few good contacts, and Pen won a honorable mention for her recent "Dog Day Tourist" painting. She was also approached with the prospect of a three month display exhibit in the Lee's Summit City Hall, which would give tremendous exposure to her work in that area.

Pen's Honorable Mention ribbon

A happy Pen.

The second day of the festival brought a rather cold gusty wind that by evening had most of the exhibiting artists wearing coats or wrapped in blankets. I believe that the low attendance of visitors for that day was directly related to the change of weather. Sunday, however, was beautiful and we were rewarded with an increase in people and a slight rise in sales. Having the opportunity to lodge with our oldest daughter, Emily, allowed us to forgo the expense of a motel and pretty much ensures we will attend the event again next year.

Pen continues to work full time creating her stunning designs. Her art is now gracing Poor Richard's Art in downtown Rogers, Arkansas. An old drugstore turned fine art and fine craft gallery provides us with another avenue to display and sell prints. If you have the chance, stop in and visit this interesting little gallery. Very unique.

Pen Wins Honorable Mention for "Dog Day Tourist"

2010-10-03T07:05:00.008-05:00

We attended the Longview Art and World Music Festival this weekend and much to our delight, Pen was awarded Honorable Mention for her recent work, "Dog Day Tourist." Judging occurred on Friday evening and was announced at a breakfast event on Saturday. Unfortunately, we did not attend the breakfast, but was awarded the ribbon shortly before we opened to the public. This will be a nice addition to Pen's bio and an acknowledgement to her creative skills.

The festival is rather small, only in its third year, with an artist attendance of around 77. Situated in the Longview Farm retail area, the event is drawing a moderate crowd with, in our situation, a reserved spending trend. Smaller ticket items like note cards are selling reasonably well, but print sales are extremely low. We still have today to offer Pen's work, but historically, Sundays are not usually the highest sales volume day, but in this business, you never know. We will open the tent at 11 a.m. today and close at 5 p.m.

A quick note on the awarded image, I have been patiently waiting for Pen to create a dragonfly. Several years ago, she began working on an image of the insect, but for reasons of her own, abandoned it to the incompleted art file and destined to remain that way. I was delighted to see the bulging eyes appearing on the bristol a few weeks ago as the preliminary layout was being prepared. The finished piece has a soft delicate feel to the color and line, which follows well with the nature of the creature. Intricate linework, created with Pen's obsession to use a 6/0 Rapidograph pen to test my skills in capturing them in the scans, structures the wings while broader fields of green and blue captures the glassy shine of the huge eyes. Once again, Pen seems to have captured the essence of her subject in a very effective way. The image area is approximately 18" x 20".

It appears that after this show is over tonight, I have extensive work to revisit on the website. I have at least four new paintings to add and in the process, I think I will do some streamlining to get the site to move a little faster. Some of the older images I will archive into a page to allow more room for new images and information. I hope to have this underway this week so visit the site regularly to see updates.

With Pen's full attention to her art, she will be creating more paintings and pursuing new galleries and shops to carry her work. Also, more art shows and festivals are definitely in the future. I will be exploring and exploiting more of social media and related marketing techniques so, with a wee bit of luck, we might be able to survive as working artists. Stay tuned.

Another New Painting Unveiled

2010-09-01T22:21:00.009-05:00

I have finally color corrected and printed the first four editions of Pen's latest creation—K's Crossing. A light approach to depicting the "Ship of the Desert," the camel. The gentle animal is in the motion of lowering itself to the rest position, maybe to allow someone to climb to the summit of the conspicuous hump for a ride through the sandy desert. With rich russet reds, saturated ochres, and soft blues, the original painting and full-sized edition print measures 28" x 22", and the small edition print measuring 15" x 11". Availability is now, but it will probably take a couple of weeks before I get it added to the gallery on the website. If you are in need of it, or any of the newer prints, before I get it on the website, just drop me an email at padraic@penbrady.com, and I'll make sure you get one. The small limited edition print is $70 USD and the full size limited edition is $220 USD plus $6 USD for USPS Priority mail delivery.

Coming soon are a sea turtle and dragonfly designs Pen has finished but I have to get off my duff and prepare. I should have everything corrected and printed before the end of the month. We have the show in Lees Summit on Oct 1-3 so I have to have them ready for that event.

Pen is working full time on her work since her departure from Chase Studio and I expect we will see an increase of wonderful designs in the coming months.

Padraic

Hot Off the Press - Koi Painting

2010-08-09T22:28:00.003-05:00

Pen's latest painting is ready for unveiling. Three graceful Koi appear in an intertwining dance of ochre and burgundy colors on a pale yellow background. Thin, almost skeletal lines add a feeling of fragile beauty and elegance. One can sense the swimming motions of the fish as they circle within the composition. The painting measures approximately 20" x 28" and available for purchase.

The full-sized limited edition of 50 prints will be available in a couple of weeks, and the smaller 11" x 17" limited edition of 100 prints is available now. I hope to have it featured on the website tomorrow for purchase.

Speaking of the website, because of the time to load on many computers, I am going to condense some of the portfolios and attempt to load smaller files as to speed things up. I am thinking of changing the entire portfolio sections, possibly eliminating some of the older images or archiving them on a separate page. I would like to showcase the newer artworks, and with Pen working full-time on her art, I expect to see an increase of new arrivals.

Lastly, we are always looking for new places to represent Pen's work. If you know of a gallery or high-end gift store that could be a possible candidate, please drop us a note with the info.

On the Second Day of Summer in the Ozarks

2010-06-22T19:52:00.009-05:00

The oppressive heat of the afternoon is slowly receding and a soft breeze is making the air a little less humid and tolerable. I feed the the local residents of my pond and then settle back in the chair to aimlessly watch the orange shapes glide through the lily pads and watergrass. Gil, my rescued bluegill, takes to hand-feeding, as it gives him a sense of royalty over the lowly Koi and bullfrogs. He is celebrating his fourth summer in the pond and is fairing quite well. The orange coloration under his throat is as brilliant as the Koi. I find just sitting and watching the back and forth movement of the fish quite relaxing. After 10 hours of Chase Studio, I certainly welcome the pond, the fresh air, and a cold beer.

As I sit watching the clear waters of the pond, I am drawn to thought once again of the horrible event that continues to unfold in the Gulf of Mexico. How those clear waters are grotesquely polluted by the persistent flow of the raw petroleum spewing from the depths. While my fish bask in a clear little pond, thousands of marine animals are suffering and dying in those once pristine waters of the gulf. Shore birds, turtles, fish, and microorganisms cloaked in a shroud of oily death saddens me to the point of hopelessness. How in the hell are we going to repair this? With no end in sight, what are we going to do to salvage the wetlands, renew breeding ground, and nesting areas? The task seems almost impossible. Yet, we haven't a choice. It has to be done. The environmental cost is too great to ignore. And if anyone believes BP is going to take care of it all, you are being naive. How can any one entity, regardless of their assets, withstand the phenomenal costs of cleaning the mess, restoring the land, restoring the water conditions, pay all the people whose livelihood depends on the waters and its produce, or compensate communities that have lost revenues from tourism and closed businesses? BP's pockets are deep, but not that bottomless. And, as many corporations do, if the stakes get to high, bankruptcy is the protection of the CEO's and shareholders. Then who picks up the tab? IMHO, the longer the Macondo well flows unchecked, the closer this scenario will come to happen.

Until America begins to realize (and I do believe it is slowing turning around) we must relinquish our dependency for oil, not just foreign, but domestic as well. If we don't, we will continue to poison our waters, our children, our world. The phrase, "Drill, baby, drill," must be seen as the mantra of the of the insane. We can no longer look at the past industrial age and try to revive the petroleum momentum. It is past time to look at the future, a future without toxic avenues for fuels. We owe that to our children to come.

Donating to the Gulf Animal Rescue

2010-06-13T11:34:00.007-05:00

Watching the news this morning was depressing. The massive oil spill continues to pollute the Gulf of Mexico with the toxic sludge spreading in estuaries, beaches, and other wildlife habitations. Pen decided to use her art to help. As of today, we are going to donate $50.00 from the funds from sale of her new print, Summer at La Push, to non-profit organizations working to provide animal rescue in the gulf area. The print displays two Brown Pelicans in flight and since this is one of the birds affected by the spill, it seemed appropriate to use for the project. With a limited edition of 250 prints, at this time it will only be available through the website. We also plan to add a sea turtle and the sea otter at a later date if it looks like we can get a favorable response. Please help us spread the word so this project is a sounding success. You can get more info on the website at www.penbrady.com. Spread the word, we must do something to help clean up this mess and save the innocent victims, the wildlife of the gulf. Thanks.

Padraic

Back in the Saddle Again.

2010-06-12T13:22:00.003-05:00

Settling down with the big family change of Cait moving to Columbia, Missouri, Pen and I are back to work with Pen Brady Art & Design. Cait's vacated bedroom was overtaken by her sister and we in turn, converted her bedroom into a studio for Pen. Beside room to move about and storage for art materials, the new studio provides Pen with a greater degree of privacy as to focus attention to her work. Originally, the drawing table and equipment was in our bedroom and space was at a premium. I believe the new space will be a boost to her efficiency.

As for me, I still sit gazing at the two monitors in front of me and involved in the ongoing efforts of finding more avenues to distribute Pen's work. The Quicksilver Gallery in Eureka Springs is doing fairly well selling her prints. The past few months have been consistent in sales and hopefully during the tourist season, it will draw even more support. My goal is to find 10 to 12 more galleries similar to Quicksilver this summer. The success of her prints in Eureka Springs is encouraging and hopefully an indication of interests in general with her work. Please drop us a line if you know of a gallery or higher-end gift shop that could possible take interest in Pen's art.

We are preparing a presentation for the NatureWorks show in Tulsa in 2011. This is a prestigious show and if Pen can get in, it will be a fantastic boost for her career. Many of the top wildlife artist attend this show and to have Pen among them would be a well-deserved honor. I have prepared a biography and a CD of images to be sent out on Monday. We will be informed of the judging results at the end of August. Keep your fingers crossed!

Two more painting await my attentions to prepare for print. A sea turtle and a camel are patiently resting on my hard drive, ready for my color corrections and sizing. There never seems to be a shortage of thing for me to do. (Or for Pen, as well.)

The website has undergone yet another little upgrade, mainly a color change. The format is basically the same, just added a bit of subtle color. I still need to address the sluggishness of the site, so bear with it for a bit if you will. I hope to change the gallery sales to cut the viewing to a simpler format as to speed things up. There are several experts available at WIX.com that hopefully can assist me in cleaning things up. Just need the time to do it.

Lastly, please send us information on events concerning the arts, be it theatre, concerts, or visual arts in your area, so we can post them here and on the FB Fan page. We would be delighted to help promote these events.

-Padraic

One Chapter Ends, the Other Begins...

2010-05-31T07:06:00.014-05:00

How time flies. It doesn’t seem like over two months ago since I wrote about Cait leaving the nest. In what feels like a blink of an eye, that time has come and gone.

We moved Cait this Memorial Day weekend. It was unbelievable how much stuff that girl had collected in her room. But with the aid of a 5 x 8 box trailer and what we could stuff in my Tracker and Cait’s Reliant, we got it all there, save for a few odds and ends. Up three flights of stairs, her worldly belongings all came to rest in the modest two-bedroom suite of an aged hotel room, now apartment complex in downtown Columbia. Pen and I stayed overnight and helped, along with her roommate and friends, in getting the lofty bungalow converted into a home. With a tightness in my throat and an uncanny control over my tear ducts, Pen and I headed out around 3:30 in the afternoon to leave our daughter to begin her new life two hundred miles from home.

I guess, after 19 years with Cait, I have become a sentimental old fool. Seeing that empty room that was cluttered through the years with various age-related items: Fisher-Price and Little Tykes, Barbies and Star Wars, American Eagle and Lucky Jeans, dried-up yogart containers and unrecognizable shapes cemented in bowls. All those things about which I bitched so much are gone now. And so is my little girl, who seems now to have grown up more quickly than I had wanted. I look at that empty room and my throat closes and my eyes slowly fill with tears. How I wish I could turn back some of the years and do things differently. It is a time like this that all the things I did wrongly become uncomfortably clear. I had known this time would come, but it was so far off, but I was sorely mistaken.
"Time can bring you down, time can bend your knee. Time can break your heart, have you beggin' please..." -Eric Clapton
But, as I wrote in the last post, this must happen. It would be an injustice to her to hold her back for the sake of my selfish emotions and possessiveness. She has to learn how to live in the world as an adult, not as a child. This is an essential part of parenting as well: to let go.

“Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself. They come through you but not from you, and though they are with you yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts, for they have their own thoughts. You may house their bodies but not their souls, for their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow, which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams. You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you. For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite, and He bends you with His might that His arrows may go swift and far. Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness, for even as He loves the arrow that flies, so He loves also the bow that is stable.” –Kahlil Gibran

Cait, I hope your new freedom brings you closer to finding who you are. To see that you are a beautiful young woman with unlimited talents with no restrictions to what you become. You have the heart of a saint, and a sense kindness that most would envy. The world is out there for you to make a difference. And I know you will, on your terms.

I had, in some other social media, stated I felt that a major chapter in my life had come to a close; a chapter that I wanted not to end. I wanted to read it again, but that would not allow me to go to the next. The book is not finished, as the next chapters must be written. So with that as a catalyst, I will “cowboy up”, pick up the pen, and begin to work on those pages, just as Cait is doing with her book.

I still have my moments of sadness, but that will ease in a bit. As time takes things away, it can heal as well. My daughter is not around the house anymore, but her dad’s love for her is obviously still here, just a big part of it moved with the boxes and furniture to Columbia.

I love you, Cait. Take care of that piece of my heart.

-Dad

"She's leaving home, bye, bye..."

2010-03-11T13:33:00.004-06:00

The memorable words of that Beatle song are playing through my mind today. So this post is not about Pen's art, not even about Pen. Nor is it about art or music. No treatise upon any of those elements that manifest the creative spirit, it is a selfish little entry about a realization of an event to soon happen. An episode that comes to most parents sooner or later.

"She's leaving home..."- The Beatles

Almost nineteen years ago, the life-changing event came in a tiny, blanketed bundle. From that moment on, she has been part of my life every day since. That little blonde-headed girl who thought I was the king of the world. Looking up to me with big eyes that flashed with wonderment, she relied upon me to show her that world. Tea parties and masquerades, camp trips and bike rides, we shared our lives.

"Little girl growin' up on me..." - Tony Felling

Somewhere along the line, I misplaced my crown and I became dumb. (Occurred about seven years ago.) But I was still there and so was she. I watched her struggle with the pains of being an adolescent. I secretly cried inside as she went through the usual trials and tribulations of first love, peer rejections, and the other assorted afflictions of teens that we all suffered years before. And I have been really pissed at her for doing all those things I did that I didn't want her to do. Remember? But it never lasted and love always wins over anger.

Then came the end of school and out into the job market. Of course I have my job that takes my days, but in the evenings, when she got home several hours later than I, it was off to her room to do FaceBook and continual texting to friends. Not a lot of physical contact...but she was there and so was I.

Now comes Columbia. A distant land full of new and exciting adventures. Much more inviting than sleepy little Cedarcreek, where the most compelling events are usually centered around a stray horse getting into the road. So plans fly and dates are preliminarily set. Now I realize that soon she will be away. And after all the years with us, I feel the emptiness that will remain for a while. And it makes me sad, very sad. Its hard to imagine that that room soon will be really empty for the first time.

So here I sit, crying in my beer, feeling sorry for myself for having to endure this emotion. But above all the whimpering, I am a father. I know that this must happen; the right of passage, so to speak. My daughter must find her niche in the world. She has to make things happen for herself. My job is nearly complete, except for occasional consultation from now and then. But only when asked (wink, wink, nudge, nudge.) So it's time to cowboy up, give her the all support she needs, allow her to be herself, and to alway be here for her. She deserves that, not a clingy old fart holding her back.

You go, Caitlin, conquer the world, find your dream, make music, embrace the challenge, love life with all your heart...

...and don't forget to give me a call whenever.

I love you.

Dad

New Website and A Special Offer!

2010-02-11T13:48:00.007-06:00

After pulling what hair I have left from my head during the past few months, I have finally finished the new website. Because of my limited skills in this discipline, it is not exactly what I originally imagined it to be. However, it will provide many elements the old site did not provide and that is a plus. Now, all aspects of Pen Brady Art and Design are available at one site. No more having to hand out four or five addresses in order to have visitors see the blog, Facebook, etc. The new paintings which Pen produces can be showcased on the home page, which I hope will keep the site looking fresh and encourage you to come back to visit frequently. A new and improved contact page works flawlessly, which is a vast improvement on the old one. All in all, I hope it provides easy navigation and information for the interested parties.

If you are new to Pen's work or haven't before visited the site, the address is www.penbrady.com. And when you stop by the site, take a moment to leave a comment with suggestions or critiques to how we can make it better. After all, the site is for you.

And to celebrate this momentous occasion, we're going to take 30% off all prints through the end of February. Just click on the buy prints tab. The prices have been adjusted for this special offer. If you have any questions, please contact us through the website.

I would like to thank all of Pen's family of friends and patrons for providing the positive support to keep her work progressing. I know she will continue to amaze us with new and provocative images in the months to come. We hope to share that with you.

Padraic

An Observance of Time...

2010-02-07T11:28:00.011-06:00

I lay awake early this morning contemplating the concept of time and how we utilize it. Years ago, it seemed it was an endless realm that many times moved much slower than I wished. I can no longer subscribe to that concept. Looking to how that time was spent led me to the writing I present to you below. No earth-shattering concepts, but an observation of watching a lot of water flow. The image to the right was photographed by Caitlin Brady.

A pitcher of water, full to the brim, sets atop a shelf. Below is a grate, covering a drainpipe that dispenses itself into a quiet lake from which the sky refills her billowing clouds for spring rains.

A novice is called to sit upon the stone floor as the pitcher is tilted, allowing a slow, constant trickle to fall toward the grate. As he sits, he is to become aware of how the water passes in front of him. His hand drifts through the water and the stream is, but for only a second, diverted and stopped. The water then continues its persistent course through his fingers to the cistern below. The pitcher slowly cedes its volume to the steady flow.

To sit and observe the flow unabated may give pleasure to the viewer, but the water’s use goes without its potential. As he looks up after a few moments, he may notice that the pitcher contains considerably less of its contents. The water continues to pour. But if he were to take a cup, the water could be contained and then put to use—as to quench a thirst. If he took several cups, he could collect more to nurture a plant, to mix with pigments to create a painting, to dampen a cloth and cleanse a wound, or to combine with some with flour to make bread.

Much sooner than expected, the flow begins to ebb. It is realized that the pitcher has discharged itself to where only a few drops cling to the lip. The novice’s lesson is nearly finished. A mere moment remains to reflect the manner in which that container of water was utilized. The pitcher will soon be removed and set outside for the spring rains to refill yet again for another pupil.

-Padraic Brady

New and Exciting Young Portrait Photographer - Caitlin Brady

2010-02-01T16:04:00.044-06:00

About four years ago, Caitlin Brady took an old Minolta Dimage G500 and began shooting photographs. When I first viewed those images, I was taken by the almost intuitive compositions staring back at me. Those digital images looked to me to be from a diciplined eye, rather than from this young lady who had no formal training.

The photographs shown here were taken in an abandoned house to which Caitlin has taken a fancy using it as a subject and a backdrop. The modeling was done by her beautiful younger sister, Savannah, who adds a tremendous emotional tone with her seemingly nonchalant awareness to her bedraggled surroundings. Hauntingly quiet, yet letting the viewer to believe something else is going to happen in the next frame.

Caitlin has set a goal to create an edition of portraits and have a exhibition this summer. Last year, a mixed media photograph/sculpture was on display at the Josh Mitchell Gallery in Springfield, Missouri and was well received by many of the patrons. She hopes a one-artist exhibit displaying a body of her work will help springboard her career as a serious portrait artist and photographer. I hope that soon we can see her more work on a website that can reach out to a greater audience.

I believe that in the coming years, Caitlin Brady will continue to grow and explore the realm of her photography. And I was lucky enough to experience the beginning.

Guest Artist - Allan Burch, Illustrator

2010-01-24T10:18:00.023-06:00

"Fistful of Steel," 2009

Amazing…sometimes, mysterious, but always masterfully created. This is how I view the creative talents of illustrator, Allan Burch.I have had the distinct honor of working with Allan for the past several years in the graphics department of a museum exhibit studio. During that time, I have greatly enjoyed sharing our plethora of ideas, opinions, and experiences. We do our work each day and divvy these tidbits of wisdom to each other as we sit staring into our computers, those electronic contrivances that translate concepts into images. (Al’s works much better that mine.) At the end of the day, I go home and piddle with this and that; Al goes home and creates magic.

"Manhattan," 2009

Allan is a free-lance illustrator with an impressive portfolio of images that invokes involvement of the viewer. With elements of realism combined with confident brushwork, his portraits become more than the photograph—a deeper, emotional look into the personality of each subject. Providing clients (which include The Wall Street Journal, The Boston Globe, the AFL/CIO, and Elektra Entertainment ) with exceptional design and quality, his work is rapidly gaining widespread attention.

If your next illustration project demands the very best in quality, dynamics, and presentation, consider the talents of Allan Burch. For images that goes beyond your expectations and meets your strictest guidelines, visit www.allanburch.com. Follow allanburch on Twitter or to own one of Al's limited edition prints, go to http://allanburch.etsy.com.

As an extremely prolific artist, Allan is always creating something new to intrigue the eye and stimulate the mind. Sign up for his blog and periodic newsletter and keep informed on this extremely talented young man.

Pen's Latest Painting - Melancholy Meltdown

2009-12-29T15:03:00.004-06:00

The image of the bear reminds me of the Southwest representation of bears, with the legs drawn together to a near point. The off-angle of the bear's position brings a strong reference to "koyaanisqatsi," in the Hopi language meaning "world out of balance."

"I wanted the Polar bear feet small standing on the ice," Pen wrote in her journal, "a recognition of the shrinking icehome of the bears." The tear in the bear's eye is not a sentimental gesture, but an empathetic symbol of loss. The tear is repeated in the earth symbol under the bear's feet, as well as being seen again as a drop of water departing from the wave, a result of melting ice. Pen's roots in Pacific Northwest Coast art emerge with the stylized hand in the bear's face (symbolic in native art of an after-death human transformation to an animal) and the pierce lip (a female symbol) on Mother Earth.

The original image is 17" x 15", acrylic paint and India ink on Strathmore 400 Series 3-ply Bristol. A limited edition of 100 prints in the original size or the smaller edition of 12" x 11", also limited to 100 prints are available now by clicking here.

I would like to hear comments on this new work. Please take a moment to leave your thoughts below. And, as always, come back to the blog often to see what is current with Pen's work and other art-related posts. Thank you and Happy New Year.

Time on My Hands

2009-12-29T09:45:00.002-06:00

Christmas 2009 has come and gone. As usual, it came quicker than I expected, and left all too soon. The tree slumps in the living room as a few presents for family and friends unable to visit sparsely lay in a covering of fallen needles. Even the colored lights that shown so brightly a few nights ago now seem to have dimmed a bit. The candles are noticeably shorter and a thin coat of grey dust lingers on the collection of Santas, snowmen, nutcrackers, and the bric-a-brac from Christmases past. Soon, the chore of dismantling and storing of the Yuletime paraphernalia will be initiated by Pen (if it were left to me, the house would be perpetually Christmas, simply because I hate the work of putting it all back after taking weeks to complete.)

In the meantime, I have plans to do a lot of new things for the coming year. The website revision is top priority. I hope to have someone who knows more about websites than I to help. I hope to have the site as a hub for all aspects of Pen Brady Art & Design; gallery, blog, Facebook Fan Page, Twitter, and storefront. This needs to be completed ASAP.

I do not have to return to the regular job at Chase Studio until January 11, so I have about two weeks to get things going. Yesterday, I did a face lift on the logo, as you may have noticed in the above header. After discussing the looks of the old imagery with others, we felt the busyness of the design was distractive and clunky. So the new design was born last night. Comments are welcome.

I am also committing to using the FB fan page and this blog with more art-related events, so if anyone has info on upcoming art events, including theater, dance, music, etc., please let me know. And if you are an artist or musician, send me pics or sound clips and information about yourself. 2010 is the year for expansion for us.

Pen and I want to thank all of our friends and family for your support and encouragement of her and her art. If it were not for you, we wouldn't be as far as we are now.

We wish you all a peaceful and wonderful new year.

Pen and Padraic

New Painting by Pen Brady - Wintergift

2009-11-30T19:24:00.003-06:00

Completed in November, Pen's latest painting, Wintergift, captures a practice of Cedar Waxwings passing berries to one another. A social bird, the Waxwings travel in flocks of as many as forty or more birds. Reportedly, when the end of a twig holds berries that only one bird at a time can reach, members of a flock may line up along the twig and pass berries beak to beak down the line so that each bird gets a chance to eat. This behavior is the basis to the title of the work.

The original painting is approximately 18" x 20" and was created with acrylic and India ink on Strathmore 3-ply smooth Bristol. Sharp delineation and smooth color fields, trade marks of Pen's style, create an intricate design of earthly colors contrasted with fluid black lines, gliding across the surface. The softly displayed tans, blues, reds, and ochres will grace any environment.

Wintergift will also be available in a full size 18"x 20" limited edition of 50 prints, as well as a smaller 11" x 15" limited edition of 100 prints. Please contact us at info@penbrady.com for more information on this and other full size prints available, or for the smaller prints, please click here for ordering.

Print Winner(s) for This Month's Giveway

2009-11-30T13:18:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to Emily Davenport and Danielle Miller, the winners to this month's free print. Since they were the only two to enter the contest, we decided to give them both a print.

Needless to say, the Monthly giveaway in November was not successful. I am stumped to why people did not respond to the offer. Almost 200 personal offers, as well as numerous tweets were sent to generate correspondence, but we received no takers. If anyone has a suggestion to why this offer failed, please feel free to contact us and share. The point of the free print was to direct more people to the blog and Etsy site to further introduce Pen's art. But with no responders, I am going to re-evaluate the way we executed the contest and hopefully come up with a better way of achieving results. Until then, I will be channeling more energy into the new and improved website coming the first of the new year. Showcasing new work will continue on this blog. I allowed the information to stop so that the information on the giveaway would remain on the foremost position in the blog. That I feel was a mistake by keeping new information at bay. We live and learn.

A new painting of Pen's has been scanned and is ready to unveil this week. Hopefully, I will have this done by tomorrow evening. It is, IMHO and as always, a beautiful addition to her portfolio.

The subjects are birds, once again, and it is magnificent! Come back in a couple of days and see for yourself!

Hope all had a very thankful Thanksgiving. We are looking forward to a wonderful holiday season and wish the same for all of you.

Cheers,

Padraic

New Print Drawing for November

2009-11-03T08:50:00.001-06:00

This month we are giving away another signed print. But this time, you get to choose the print. You simply go to www.penart.etsy.com, pick your favorite print, tweet that title in a direct message in Twitter to PenArtDesign, or email the title and your name to info@penbrady.com. Either way you will be entered into a drawing for a print to be given away on November 30th. The winner will be notified by December 1st.

The October winner is Allan Burch. Allan is a fantastic artist, specializing in portrait illustrations. His work has appeared in numerous publications including The Wall Street Journal, Field and Stream magazine, and The Boston Globe. His distinctive style has been utilized in advertising and industrial campaigns, as well as gracing the covers of several books. You can see Allan's work on line at www.allanburch.com, follow him at allanburch on Twitter, or view available prints on www.allanburch.etsy.com. Congratulations, Allan, on winning the Pinnnacle Genesis signed print.

Don't forget to sign up today for your chance to win a signed print of your choice from Pen Brady. It could be a unique gift for someone special for Christmas, or a great gift for yourself. Best of luck to you all.

Win a Signed Edition Print

2009-10-13T23:01:00.003-05:00

Want a chance to win a hand signed print by Pen Brady?

This month we are going to give away a 11" x 12" print of the painting Pinnacle Genesis (shown above,) created in 2008. Ready to frame, the artwork is printed with archival pigmentation inks on thick matte paper and hand-signed by Pen. The winner will be chosen by a drawing on October 31 and notified by email. Don't miss out on the chance to own this print ( a $70.00 value) absolutely free. We even pay the shipping.

All you have to do is go to http://penart.etsy.com and get the code printed the bottom of the Shop Announcement block. Then through Twitter, send a Direct Message to PenArtDesign with that code, your name and email address. We will put all the names in a hat and have one of our unbiased daughters draw the winning name on October 31st. Your email address will not be sold or given to any third party.

While you are there, take a moment to see the other limited edition prints, and note cards sets available on Etsy. For your convenience, items can be paid directly through your PalPal account.

We hope this promotion goes well. If so, we plan to do this once a month, so come back to the blog often or follow PenArtDesign on Twitter, as notices will be posted. Thank you and good luck.

Featured Artist at Eureka Springs, Arkansas

2009-10-13T21:21:00.003-05:00

Pen's art is now available in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

Last Saturday, October 10th, Pen was the featured artist at the Quicksilver Art Gallery in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. During the monthly 2nd Saturday Art Walk, several of her prints and original paintings were on display for the evening event. Pen was on hand to meet the visitors and introduce her art on a personal level.

Quicksilver Gallery will be the exclusive representative for Pen's limited edition prints in Eureka Springs. They will have a full line of the small prints and several framed large prints; all are signed and numbered limited editions. Steve, Brian, Carol, and Lyla are the people who make Quicksilver a pleasant experience and can help you find that perfect gift of art. Featuring over 130 artists, there is something for anyone's fancy. If you are in Eureka, stop in and look at the fine works available.

Here is a rare photograph of the artist. I was able to capture the elusive Pen while I was standing across the street with a 20x zoom on my Canon SX10 IS super spy camera. Immediately after I took the picture, she quickly returned to the gallery interior and never was able to be photographed the rest of the evening. Such is the plight of a paparazzi.

The Big Event - The Third Annual Pinnacle Hills Art Festival

2009-09-10T11:11:00.001-05:00

I can't believe it is finally here. The months have flown by and the weekend event we have been planning for the past few months is at hand. And, true to the nature of the Brady, we are still frantically getting things ready. We will be leaving early on the 11th to be set up by one or two in the afternoon.

Last year, Pen received first place in the two-dimensional art division and hopefully we will fair well this time, as we have increased inventory of prints, with twenty framed original and limited edition prints and over 100 limited edition prints in sealed packages. We are also introducing a new line of bookmarks along with the notecard sets available for those "less expensive" options.

If you are within the area, please stop by to meet Pen and enjoy the events at the festival.

New Featured Painting - Gravelbar Theater

2009-07-18T07:59:00.001-05:00

This is the unveiling of Pen's painting "Gravelbar Theater." This artwork was actually created last winter, but sat unattended on my computer until a couple of weeks ago. After combining the scans and color correction, the image is ready for print.

The work introduces the distraction display an adult Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) performs when protecting its young. When approached, the bird suddenly develops a broken wing. Struggling to flee, it appears to barely be able to walk, let alone fly. As you almost can reach down and get the bird, it somehow gathers enough strength to keep a step or two ahead of you. It continues this little act until you have been lead far enough away from its chicks. At this time, the wing suddenly "heals," the bird takes flight, and mockingly gives its signature call, "Kill-Dee, Kill-Dee, Kill-Dee." One can see how effective this display can be when luring a hungry predator away from the brood of chicks.

The image size of the original is approximately 18"x 18" and was created with Pen's usual acrylic and India ink on 3 ply Bristol. The full-sized print is available in an edition of 100, as well as a smaller size of 11"x 11", also in a limited edition of 100. At the moment, the original is unavailable for sale. I like to keep the original around for a bit until the first few prints have been done. It helps in color corrections and such to have the original close at hand.

In my most humbled opinion, I believe the warm, earthy tones of this painting has a bit more masculine appeal to it. The complex structure to the line work is indicative of some new directions Pen has been moving toward in the more recent works. I have always been a great fan of the diagonal in artwork, so I enjoy the composition of this piece.

So there you have it. Hot off the press, or soon to be, as I am going to run the first four or five prints of the smaller size edition as soon as I finish this blog. I hope to have this one offered in the Etsy store later on today or tomorrow. If you haven't been to the shop, please take a look. There are about 25 or so images there you can view, and if the mood sets you, purchase a print for yourself. As always, your thoughts and comments are always welcome.

—Padraic

A Bit of News from the Slacker

2009-07-16T20:43:00.001-05:00

Wow! I can not believe it has been 15 days since I made a blog entry. I swore when I began this, I would not let it happen. But guess what? I did.

Turning the ripe old age of sixty on the 10th of this month had me preoccupied last weekend. My brother Mike and his significant other, Richard (how freaking impersonal is that? Sorry, Richard, soul-mate is probably better?) came to visit for the weekend to help me through the milestone. Needless to say, celebrations were continued each day and ale was never in short supply. As a result, the computer was neglected and sat silently, save for a few insignificant twittering just to keep my fingers from forgetting their positions on the keyboard.

The weather remained pleasant, for July in Missouri, and a few evenings were spent in quiet reflection to regrow brain cells and refocus on directions I needed to relocate. So, with that over and confessed, I return to the duties at hand...tomorrow. (Never do today what you can successfully put until tomorrow. I believe that is the translation of the Gaelic inscription under the Brady coat of arms.)

On a serious note, Pen, Savannah, and I were involved in a search today for a 9 year old girl that was missing here in Cedarcreek. As most of you know, I am the assistant chief down here and was called out this afternoon to initiate the search. Pen and Savannah volunteered to help as well. After about four hours of searching through thick underbrush of the Ozark backcountry in sweltering heat and humidity, she was located at a lake access and was ok. Only after being returned to her home, elements of possible abuse and ugly situations began to emerge after law enforcement began speaking with the little girl. Apparently, this was not an isolated occurance. I hope the best for that little girl.

See you tomorrow and I will have new content to amaze and entertain you, hopefully.

Padraic

Springfield Art Walk This Friday Night

2009-06-30T21:34:00.000-05:00

Springfield First Friday art walks are really undergoing a change, a good change. When Pen and I first went to one of the events about four years ago, we had a great time. We looked at a wide spectrum of art styles, from the conservative to the avant-garde. A glass of wine here and there, coupled with conversation on art, politics, and whatever was on the individuals mind.

But this year, when we went a month ago after a six month or so hiatus, the atmosphere had become more festive. There was music in the square. Street dancers were displaying their abilities to spin in ways that would certainly dislocate several major joints in my body. People were everywhere, laughing and dancing. Musicians on street corners played everything from old folk songs to blues and jazz. There were fire and belly dancers, spining and swaying to exotic beats of drums. The feeling I got was everyone was in a joyful mood. Not only were the art galleries and restaurants open, but many of the eccentric little shops with trinkets and clothing from a bygone era, and wild new things that made you laugh and wonder what the hell it was you were holding. We liked it. We saw no displays of hostilities, only smiles and howdys. The things old hippies like to see again.

The art, as always, gave you a chance to stand back, hold your chin and give an impression of wise counsel as you ponder the significance of the work (even if you couldn't pronounce the title, let alone, know the process which created it.) But the bottom line was we were having a great time. My daughter had her guitar slung over her shoulder as she scurried away from her uncool parents to rendezvous with a young man she hadn't seen since they were in elementary school. We later saw her on the grass, playing the guitar to the young gentleman who obviously couldn't believe that girl in front of him was the same skinny little girl he had not seen in over seven years. We were all having a wonderful time, and it wasn't costing a thing.

To narrow my long-winded approach to this post, if you are in the area of Springfield, Missouri, go to the art walk on the first Friday of each month. Check out the several galleries downtown and in the vicinity (the Josh Mitchell Gallery/The Art Station at 1424 East Cherry is a bit out of the downtown area but not too far to go for some very interesting exhibits.) I think you will enjoy youself.

Oh yeah, buy some art while you're there and keep an artist working.

—Padraic

Etsy Store Up to Date, New Ideas –

2009-06-27T08:04:00.000-05:00

By noon today, I should have the complete line of available prints listed on http://penart.etsy.com. I have spent days sizing images, setting watermarks, and writing little snips of wisdom for descriptions. To tell the truth, I am ready for a new project. With the development of this blog, a webpage facelift, keeping up with twitter and facebook, I have been sitting in front of this computer most of my waking hours. Time for a bit of a change.

The next adventure is designing some classy T shirts. Pen and I created a few "shirts of distinctive design" years ago and I have been chompin' at the bit to do it again. I think most of Pen's art could be adapted to T's and make interesting and unique shirts. With the upcoming festival at Pinnacle Hills (pinnaclehills.info,) this would be a good time to make the attempt. So the Ivory-bill will definately be on the list of initial designs. Depending on costs and response, I plan to have around 6 designs by fall.

So, without prostituting ourselves tooooooooo much, we will be looking for new things to use Pen's designs, in addition to traditional wall art. Got any ideas? We'd love to hear from you.

—Padraic

Pinnacle Hills Art Festival Is Just around the Corner

2009-06-23T16:14:00.000-05:00

The Third Annual Pinnacle Hills Arts Festival is going to be here before we know it. We have prints to prepare, matting and framing, and lots of other things to get ready for the event. Last year we had a fantastic time and met so many great people. We are certainly looking forward for this festival. So make a note on your calendar for September 11, 12, and 13 to come to Rogers, Arkansas and have a good time. Come meet Pen and have the oportunity to view her amazing art. We'll look forward to seeing you there.

For more show information go to http://pinnaclehills.info/

Website Update

2009-06-04T23:04:00.000-05:00

As of this evening, some of the major gliches are fixed on Pen's website. At least you are able to enter while using a 16:9 aspect. Still have some minor visual tweaks, and a new page with new images should come tomorrow or saturday. The contact page will still get an email to us if you have any questions on print sizes and pricing. Please feel free to leave your comments as well.

www.penbrady.com

2009-05-30T14:16:00.000-05:00

This is the initial sketch for the lastest work by Pen. Loons have a special place in Pen's heart. I remember about 20 years ago, she and I went to the Boundary Waters in Minnesota for a canoe trip. After being in the area several days, we had found a spectacular spot to spend the night—a quiet little cove that in the evening, was bathed in golden light of the sunset. We finished dinner and took the canoe out on the glass-like lake for an evening trip. The evening sunset on the reedgrass and the peat-colored water was indescribable for words. And from within the mass of reeds, a solitary loon repeated its call over and over. This was such an impressive memory of that trip, I can't help believe that image is embedded within this drawing.

At first glance, the loon, in midst of a call, is mirrored on the water surface. But on closer observation, it is not a true reflection of the bird above. The wing touching the water actually appears to continue below the water line.

Ahh, the beauty of artistic license. Art has no boundaries. Art is pure freedom within itself. When art is allowed to exist within its own paradigm, we view it with awe and wonder.

The painting of this subject is coming along and I am trying to not watch its progression too closely. I enjoy the unveiling as much as everyone else.

—Padraic

Latest Artwork

2009-05-30T00:57:00.000-05:00

Pen has been working on a double-image drawing of a loon. After completing her usual ink/acrylic on paper work, she decided that it was not working to her satisfaction. She decided the image would work better on canvas, so she chucked the hours and imagery she had spent on the drawing, and began the painting.

This weekend, I will give a sneak preview of the new work through the preliminary sketch she completed a couple of months ago, as soon as I can get a scan of it.

—Padraic

2009-05-29T03:11:00.000-05:00

Pinnacle Hills Art Festival

September 11, 12, 13, 2009

Rogers, Arkansas

Pen developed this image of the Ivory-billed woodpecker to celebrate the reported sightings of this spetacular bird, thought to have moved to extinction in the mid part of the 20th century. In 2004 and 2005, sightings of this great bird was reported in the Big Woods Area in Arkansas. The prospect of this woodpecker escaping the grasp of extinction is facinating.

The original work is india ink and acrylic on Strathmore Bristol 3-ply Vellum paper. Limited edition prints will be available in June.

The Pinnacle Hills Art Festival commissioned Pen to create an image of this bird for their promotional materials for the upcoming 3rd annual art show scheduled the weekend ot September 11 through the 13 in Rogers, Arkansas. During this festival last year, Pen received the best of show award, along with the invitation to return to exhibit again this year, and the oportunity to have her work represented in the promotional packaging. Last year was a very successful show and we had the pleasure of meeting so many great people, both exhibitors and visitors. We are looking forward to another enjoyable event this September. For more information on the show, please go to http://pinnaclehills.org.

-Padraic

In the Beginning....

2009-05-26T23:54:00.001-05:00

This is the beginning of a new phase in getting Pen's images to a broader market. If you know my wife, you know that the computer is not her favorite tool. So I take on the responsiblity of getting it up and running. Bear with me, as I have not entered the realm of blog-making either . I'm sure errors will be common in these first few weeks. I have a lot of work ahead of me.

—Padraic