Tag Archives: New Artist

From The Lens of Thomas Tepstad Berge

Thomas Tepstad Berge is a photographer based in Stavanger, Norway, where he lives with his wife and 4 kids on the west coast of Southern Norway.

While he was given a disposable camera every summer when he was young to document his summer holidays, it was not until Thomas was 18 that he started filling his spare-time with capturing moments. Thomas started out making films, then gradually moved into timelapse photography before he settled down within still photography. He is a self-taught photographer who’s learned techniques and approaches to framing both the hard way and by reading books and articles, watching YouTube videos, etc. Thomas’ portfolio mainly consists of the landscape that you find along the west coast of Norway with deep fjords and steep mountains, long beaches and farmland, and surfing action in the waves. The common denominator for all his images is that he tries to capture the right light, whether it be the soft sunset light in a cloudscape, the powerful Northern lights on the night-sky, or the strong daylight illuminating the actions taking place on a surfboard. Every image brings Thomas back to that moment when he captured them, and if some of those feelings can be transferred to others who view them then he considers the image to be successful.

How would you describe your photography style?

I would describe my landscape and cloudscape photography as “dreamy”, as both the smooth style and the locations themselves are typically not your everyday view, but rather somewhere you would day-dream about visiting.

What are your typical photography subjects?

My typical photography objects would be landscapes, night sky, and surfers. What makes this interesting is the big span from well planned landscape shots to the very in-the-moment action photos in surfing, where both the equipment and approach is completely different.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

Landscape photography in Iceland or the Azores would be amazing. I would then sleep during the day so that I could capture the light during sunsets, night, and sunrise.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

While I do use planning tools to some extent, I actually prefer to go to a site and find the inspiration there and then through the camera lens. I find that the best angles and views are usually not the ones you think prior to being at the location, and often foreground elements like flowers, trees, and animals provide you with that missing ingredient for the perfect shot.

How has your photography evolved over time?

When starting out with photography, I was more centered around the classical sunset shots without many other elements playing together with the light to fulfill the image. Today I always have “something more” than a pretty sunset. I also very much enjoy the more difficult conditions (snow, rain, fog, etc.) as they often create more interesting images.

What do you like most about your work?

What I like most about my work is the joy that it gives me. I love to be outside with my camera, I love to process my images on the desktop, and I love to see the final images and share them with others.

What is your favorite time of day to shoot?

My favorite time is the sunset period (afternoon in the winter, almost midnight in the summer) as the light itself can make a dull scene become the most interesting of all.

What To Read Next…

From The Studio of Hayley Michelle

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From The Studio of Ben Schneider

The images featured above are available in our Print-On-Demand collection. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

From The Studio of Hayley Michelle

Hayley Michelle is a Riverina, New South Wales-born artist who has spent time living within and loving parts of South East Queensland and Victoria. With a background in fine art and portrait photography, Hayley has been creating beautiful works in multiple mediums for the past two decades. She has been gathering up details of textures and tones over that time and has spilled them onto canvas to create a selection of unique and stunningly evocative work.

Now residing within beautiful Melbourne with her son, Alex, and her rambunctious bulldog, Bruno, Hayley works from her home, creating elegant abstract artwork, brought to life with such deliberate detail. Hayley is currently studying Visual Arts at The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology where she intends to expand her knowledge and experience in the arts.

What do you first do when you get to the studio?

My first step is always find an amazing playlist to support my mood and the flow of creativity.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I have always worked on only one at a time. I love to be able to let the entire piece come to life, with an uninterrupted flow from beginning to end.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

I would love to create something large, a collection of floor to ceiling canvases in subtle hues with a lot of texture.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

It is probably cliche, but Frida Kahlo would be my first choice. She was so unapologetically unafraid to simply create with so much passion. Her depictions of her life were so beautiful, but her courage as an artist to just paint without fear was truly so special.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

I am a true lover of nature and being outdoors, feeling the warm sun or the crisp cool air on my skin, catching the scent of spring or salty waves in the air. I am a lover of the moon and of beautiful sunsets. I draw a lot on my time living in beautiful Phillip Island, where the sky fills with candy tones over the bay to the east, as the sun sets behind in the west, and waves in the most beautiful shades of blue crash over ancient volcanic rock. I listen to music and close my eyes, and remember the textures, the tones, and mostly the way it feels to be there, and I do my best to convey that on canvas.

How has your art evolved over time?

I was once a pencil portrait artist, drawing tight, realistic portraits from photos. I loved the skill involved, but felt that my passion for creativity wasn’t being fulfilled entirely. I craved to create loose, big painted strokes on canvas, to express emotion and truly capture what it is I love the most. When I moved in this direction, it brought me such peace and my work truly came to life.

What do you like most about your work?

That it is an authentic expression of me.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Ethereal

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I would love to explore with more deliberate shapes and more texture.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

In the morning. I feel so fresh and inspired when I first wake, the new day is like a fresh canvas. I love being up early, sipping coffee, and painting in those quiet hours of the morning.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

I do. Over time I have learned to leave it. Nothing good comes from pushing a piece, so if it isn’t flowing , its not right. I will leave it be, and may or may not come back to it later.

What is up next on your easel?

I am currently working on a small collection of earthy, neutral, more textured paintings, again inspired by the natural world with the colors and textures of elements such as clay and pumice. I am excited for what is unfolding.

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From The Studio of Ben Schneider

Less Is More: Embracing Minimalist Design

From The Studio of Ben Schneider

Meet our new artist, Ben Schneider! He is truly showing the world that his art inspires hope. Ben was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3. Art has been a part of Ben’s life from a very early age, providing him with an essential outlet with which to calm and express himself. Art has become Ben’s passion, and continues to provide him opportunities to enjoy meaningful and fulfilling work. Ben loves using acrylic and mixed media to create his dynamic paintings. He is always searching for new techniques to experiment with in his studio, and loves using bright colors and interesting combinations.

What do you do when you first get in the studio?

The first thing I do is set up supplies and canvases. While I’m setting up my materials, I start thinking about the style of the painting and the colors I want to use. I then pick out my paints and prepare them for the painting I will be completing.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I usually work on two paintings at a time, though that number can vary. It takes close to a week for the paints to dry, and to add finishing coats to it. Sometimes I will do multiple canvases that go together in a set, so that can be up to 4 canvases at once.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

My dream project would be to combine patterns using painters tape, and the technique of pouring acrylics. I think the combo of the materials would create a good painting.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

I enjoy painting with my mentor Nicole. She helps me keep my materials organized and assists me when needed. She also helps me keep notes on the paintings, like what colors I used, and any special equipment I choose.

What is your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

The main way I generate ideas is in my head through visions and pictures I see. That helps me decide what I want to try. I also will research new ideas and techniques online. I am very inspired by colors. I love to combine unexpected colors and see the outcome.

How has your art evolved over time?

The main way I have evolved with my art is that my skills have improved. I now understand the routine I need to do to be successful in the art studio. I also think I have evolved the techniques I use. I started with just pouring paint on canvases, and now I have many techniques and materials that I use in projects. I also now have preferences on paint brands I use as well. Each brand can be different, but I know which ones I like.

What do you like most about your work?

What I like most about my work is when I complete a painting. It makes me feel accomplished. I like to look at the finished art and see the final project. I also really like my use of colors. I pair things together that may be unexpected sometimes, but it always looks good in the end.

What is one word that best describes your style?

I think one word that describes my art is “movement”. Throughout all of my art pieces, you can see the unique movements of the paint, and the movement of the colors combining. As for my personal style, I would say I am precise and mellow. I am very precise with measuring paint ratios and completing projects, yet manage to keep a mellow attitude while I’m in the art studio.

I think one word that describes my art is “movement”. Throughout all of my art pieces, you can see the unique movements of the paint, and the movement of the colors combining.

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I really would like to explore the use of tape in my paintings. I like that I can tape away parts of the canvas from the paint I am pouring, and when I remove the tape, a unique outcome of patterns and paint appear. I am also looking into adding more texture to my artwork through the use of gels and other thickening materials.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

My favorite time of day to paint is in the evenings. I feel like I am most alert and focused in the evenings, and I tend to be most efficient then as well.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

I don’t really ever get stuck on any art pieces. I am very decisive when it comes to the colors I choose and the techniques I use. I do, however, learn and gain knowledge with each piece I complete. I am able to use that knowledge I gained to make adjustments as I move forward into new art pieces.

What is up next on your easel?

When I think about what’s next, I think about trying new techniques and seeing how it goes. I like to evolve as an artist and I’m pretty open to new ideas. I do like to research new ideas, and I tend to plan out new projects to try in the future.

In 2012 Ben’s parents started a non-profit called Ben’s Fund to help children and young adults with autism reach their full potential through financial aid, awareness, and hope! Ben’s Fund has raised over $2,329,166, and portions of the sales of Ben’s artwork go to support the non-profit! Check out their website for more information.

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From The Studio of Roberta Dyer

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From The Studio of Roberta Dyer

We are excited to welcome our newest artist Roberta Dyer to Third & Wall! Roberta grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. Spending time at the High Museum of Art and going to the fledgling Piedmont Park Art Festival, she imagined her paintings would one day hang among the artists she so admired.

She attended Vanderbilt University, earned her BA in Art History and returned to Atlanta after graduation where she continued pursuing her passion for art, taking classes at the High Museum and Georgia State University. Moving to San Diego in 1971, Roberta took art classes as time would allow and has since enjoyed many forms of expression from sculpture to copper enameling, oil painting to mural assignments. Today, she focuses on non-representational paintings and figurative subjects.

Roberta’s art is best described as expressive, whether figurative or abstract. She uses a combination of bold color and mixed media techniques to present her subjects in unusual ways.

“I am constantly pulled by two loves–painting figures and painting abstracts. It makes me happy to work with the push and pull of these two disciplines. I want to explore how design and pattern interact to make a realistic subject more abstract and enhance the theme of the painting. For me, the process of painting involves adding and removing and editing as I go along. If something doesn’t work, I simply paint it out and go in a different direction. I don’t try to paint likeness, that is a task for portrait artists. I use figures and animals as shapes in a painting and my intent in these paintings is to portray animals and humans as survivors–vulnerable but strong. I also love pure abstraction using mixed media along with acrylic paint.”

What do you first do when you get to the studio?

Whether I am beginning to paint or just visiting my studio before going back to it later, I take this time to look at my works in progress and try to decide what my next creative steps should be. Then I might clean up a bit and organize my supplies.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I work quickly at the start of a painting so I like to work on two or three paintings at a time. While one is having some “drying time” I work on the others. I also find that working on several pieces at once keeps me from over-focusing on one and getting lost in the minutiae too early.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

This is a hard one because there are so many masterful painters I would choose. I admire the work of Turner, Picasso, Lautrec, Diebenkorn, Manet, Modigliani, not to mention the wonderful men and women of the Abstract Expressionists. But if I had to pick one, it would be Matisse. His influence on modern art has been profound with his flattening and simplifying of his subject matter, his bright colors, his use of patterns and lines and his brilliant compositions. There is something that can be learned by every artist working today.

“There is something that can be learned by every artist working today.”

What is your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

Two ways work best for me when I am casting about for ideas. Working toward a particular theme is one way, particularly when there is a deadline for a show, and the other is to decide on a project or subject or theme and then do a series based around that idea. Or I might find a new material that I like and experiment with that for several paintings. I am currently in love with ArtGraf water-soluble pastels.

How has your art evolved over time?

I’ve been painting for years and understand looking back that the best way to improve or evolve is to work really hard. I’ve taken many workshops and classes- some valuable and some not so much- and have learned from some brilliant artists and teachers. Taking that information and applying it to my style and vision has helped me grow. My confidence has grown over the years as has my skill and that has allowed my style to emerge.

What do you like most about your work?

I have always admired artists who are not afraid to have their “hand” evident in their work, and I believe that I have achieved that in my paintings. I like that the emotion of my subject matter, whether real or abstract, shows through. People say that my work is expressive and I appreciate that.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Expressive.

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

My life long goal as an artist is to merge realism with abstraction in a unique way. No matter the painting, that is always in my mind.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

I find that I am the most focused in the afternoon. My mind is more settled after other commitments have been accomplished. I have more energy in the mornings but my mind is chaotic.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece?

I am an intuitive painter rather than a planner, so it is safe to say that I get stuck at some point on every single piece! There are several ways I can move forward–I can stop working and not look at the piece for a day or two, I can go over my “Finish” checklist that helps me evaluate values, compositions, line, shapes, etc. One of the most effective ways is one I learned by taking a workshop from Jeannie McGuire. She said that when she is stuck, she gives her painting a story and that then she will be able to move forward. I have found that to be a sure and fun way to get unstuck.

What is up next on your easel?

I have been working on a series of 36×48 paintings of coyotes and told myself that I should do five. I have completed 3 1/2 so far and am trying to move ahead to finish number 4. I have also begun working on a series of large abstracts using the ArtGraf water-soluble pastels and am loving the process. I’ll always circle back to painting figures and animals too.

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From The Studio of Ruth Fromstein

Meet one of Third & Wall’s newest artists, Ruth Fromstein! While currently residing in San Diego, Ruth has had a close relationship with art since picking up a brush and canvas while a child in small-town Wisconsin. Creating has been the only constant in Ruth’s life and an important form of self-expression.

While her Bachelors degree is in Vocal Rehabilitation, it was the various art classes that inspired her. She experimented with drawing, design, art, metals, and weaving. Her art took inspiration from her love of dancing, hiking, backpacking, and nature, imbuing her work with movement, life, and a palate as varied as an expansive field of wildflowers gracing the horizon. Ruth is constantly experimenting with new materials and techniques striving to embody in her work the beauty and excitement of the world she sees around and within herself. Creating images that dance and play in the viewer’s imagination, her abstract paintings have been described as anything from tranquil and relaxing to thrilling and startling. She embraces her brush as her dance partner, and, with it, swings across the canvas in a chorus of control and spontaneity. While Ruth paints with a goal, she is always excited to stumble into new territory as the materials she experiments with lead her in unexpected directions!

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

I take a deep breath and evaluate what I had done the previous day, looking at my work with fresh eyes.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I like to work on multiple paintings at one time, usually at least 4.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

It would be cool to paint a mural.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Oh my goodness… who to choose? A master like Monet or Angus Wilson, or a painter I would like to take a class with? How about my incredibly talented friend from high school, Leslie Stewart? I choose them all!

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

I frequently get inspired when I go hiking. I am influenced by my surroundings as well as my own thoughts and feelings.

How has your art evolved over time?

My work continues to evolve as I experiment with new techniques, colors, and tools. I enjoy learning from other artists who introduce me to new processes then I like to take the information and apply it to my paintings in interesting ways.

What do you like most about your work?

I like that my paintings pull the viewer in and take them on a journey. I enjoy looking at my paintings, and every time I do, I see something different.

I like the variety of work that I create. I am attracted to color, texture and movement.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Only ONE? Contemporary

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

My head is exploding with ideas, however, I need to see if these concepts will successfully translate onto my canvas. Follow along and see what emerges!

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

My mind is fresh in the morning, and I like the natural light that shines through my windows.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so what do you do?

Oh, yes! Sometimes I need to tuck a painting away and pull it out another day, or rotate the orientation. Other times, it is best to simply “paint over”.

What is next up on your easel?

I have one of those “tucked away” paintings waiting for fresh inspiration, as well as an abstract landscape and floral.

The images featured here are available in our Print-On-Demand collection. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

From The Studio of Stacey Pollard

Meet our new artist, Stacey Pollard! Her paintings usually involve landscape, either as a study of shapes and compositions or of structures in the landscape. Since moving to Seattle, Stacey has been drawn to the varied architecture and light of the Pacific Northwest. Her paintings start with photographs as reference, and she quickly edits the composition, adding layers and materials. Building up the textures and glazes is an exciting process for her every time! Stacey likes to walk the line between an accurate depiction of what she saw and a more emotional reading of the scene.

What do you do when you get to the studio in the morning?

I stop on the way and get my coffee–have to have it in my hand even if I don’t drink it. Then I turn up the heat and get my playlist going.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I usually have two or three going at once, all at different stages.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

Not really–I’m having fun with what I’m doing now.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

I would have to go back in time to hang out in Richard Diebenkorn’s studio–I’ve always admired his work.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

I take photos when I’m out and about–whatever scene catches my eye. Then I take them back to the studio to find the shapes and compositions–different ideas appeal to me at different times. Once I get a painting started, I put the photo away and just refer to the painting itself–that’s when the really exciting stuff happens.

How has your art evolved over time?

I started out as a painter and printmaker–I think my paintings are similar to the collagraph plates I used to make. I still like to layer on the textures and colors. The subject matter has changed a bit, but they still start with something representational, and then I abstract them.

What do you like most about your work?

I like that they are interesting to look at up close and interesting to see from far away. The texture is fun to create, and the layers of glazes and brushwork also seem to hold up.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Abstract landscape–not one word but that is the best I can do!

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I’m always looking for the next great composition–one that really resonates when I see it. Those are the unforgettable images or scenes I know I have to paint.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

I like to paint in the afternoon.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

Of course! When I can see it starting to happen, I have to set it aside and let it simmer for a while. Sometimes I just have to give up and start over, but then again some of my best pieces were saved at the last minute!

What is up next on your easel?

I’m working on three pieces at the moment–I’ve been experimenting with underpainting and some different textures. It’s hard to take my time on these–I’ve got so many ideas I want to try!

From The Studio of Kippi Leonard

Meet our artist, Kippi Leonard! Kippi’s vibrant aqueous surfaces are the results of pouring inks that have been custom mixed onto canvas, panel, and linen. The pouring process is her way of largely abandoning compositional control and remaining open to spontaneous occurrences with her work. Through color, luminosity and light reflection, her work provokes calm and, simultaneously, deep introspection. Inversely, her mixed media work is structural and largely black and white with expressive mark making and an occasional allusion of color. Both methods of creating reflect her veracious essence. After an extensive career in interior design, Kippi continues the exploration of materials through her experimental and abstract work in oil, encaustic, collage and watercolor.

A Pacific Northwest native, she now resides in Palm Desert, California a place that nurtures her comprehensive approach to creating art.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

The first thing I do when I arrive at my studio each day is to turn on music, something that will influence the tone, composition, and mood of my current series of paintings.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I typically work on 2-4 paintings at a time, with several in ink and a large acrylic mixed media.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

My current dream project has been opening my own studio/gallery/workshop space in Palm Desert where I live. There is a street revitalization program currently in construction where my studio is located which is being built to provide the community with an art scene, community events, music festivals, dining, and gathering. Its going to be amazing and I’d like to be involved in its vision and implementation.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

I would have to go back in time. I just read the book “Ninth Street Women” by author Mary Gabriel. I could see myself painting for a day with Joan Mitchel or Grace Hartigan. Mostly, I’d like to be a part of their unapologetic gusty innovation in the post-war modern art world. Truly inspiring!

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

When my creative tank is nearing empty, a good adventure clears my mind and, being an amateur photographer, I always return with photo inspiration. Travel, hiking, visiting new out-of-the-way places of interest feeds my soul. Museum, gallery, and art shows always excite my brain and fuel me to start new pieces. Occasionally, a color I see somewhere in a crowd takes hold and a new idea begins to form.

How has your art evolved over time?

I experimented in so many mediums when I first started to learn about art and its creation. I found my voice in my ink work and in my mixed media work, and I’ve realized I cannot do everything but I can challenge myself within a few favorites. I am always trailblazing ways to use the inks. For me, it’s always being willing to risk. I love overcoming impossibility within my work.

What do you like most about your work?

I like how it evokes emotion in the viewers. I’m often being told stories of what a person sees within my work. A mother holding a child, a sunrise in the mountains, a female silhouette; that it resonates in their heart and mind; that they don’t want to look away. My story becomes part of their story when they bring my art into their home. I want to connect with people and this is the way I do that.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Modern-Neutral

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I have lots of ideas to explore. My current idea is blending contemporary elements with historical figures using my inks, collage, and acrylic in an abstract way.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

It depends on what I’m painting. I work with inks early in the morning when I’m energized, as they require complete attention with music that is upbeat and I can dance in place a bit while waiting for the inks to dry. I work on my abstract mixed media pieces in the late afternoon and evenings, usually with soft jazz music playing.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

I do get stuck and with those pieces I either push too far or they go in my “closet of unloved art” until a fresh idea hits me. Then I begin again and they evolve into some of my most favorite pieces. Occasionally, I have my husband look at a piece and give me his “feel”. It re-inspires me to go in a new direction or validates I’m on the right track and I just needed to push through.

What is up next on your easel?

Currently a 48 x 72″ ink piece for a commission is on the table and a new collage mixed media is on the easel waiting for the first brush stroke.

From The Studio of Nancy Ngo

We would like to introduce you to our newest artist at Third and Wall, Nancy Ngo! Born in Chicago but transplanted to Arizona as a young child, Nancy grew up learning an appreciation for contrasting landscapes. She developed an eye for the difference in the way light reflects on different terrains in the country. Nancy returned to Chicago after high school and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis on Painting and Art History from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. And once again, she moved back to Arizona where she currently resides with her culinary artist husband and their three daughters.

Nancy’s awareness of the play of light and shadow and its effect on color plays an important role in her work today. The dichotomy of the natural desert landscape of Arizona versus the urban downtown environment of Chicago led her to a certain “no rules” style of painting. Her paintings are highly textured and raw, sometimes with an unfinished quality in which the work holds a kind of potential energy and freedom. Nancy continues to explore new avenues in her work, even with new materials. She is fascinated by the discoveries made while creating each new piece of art, allowing her style to change often in order to keep her painterly freedom.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

It depends on the day of the week… ship day, prep day, planning day or painting day. Obviously, my favorite days are when all the canvases are prepped, then I get started painting right away! If nothing is prepped, I like to take care of regular business stuff, checking emails and updating my planner and goals for the day or week, and then I can get to work.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

Too many! If I have an order, I will work on a painting start to finish with no interruptions. More often though, I have so many ideas, sometimes I prep too many at once and have them sprawled out all over the studio.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

Anything extremely large scale. I love to work BIG.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Oh my gosh, alive or dead? I’m inspired by artists of all genres… Kandinski, Egon Schiele, Michiko Itatani, Judith Godwin, Agnes Martin, David Hockney, Christine Tarkowski, Mike Kelley, Susanna Coffey, Bruce Nauman, Wolfgang Laib, James Turrell, Bill Viola… I could go on and on and on.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

If I am away from painting (on vacation) for a while, I usually come home and paint in a frenzy. I also like to look at magazines of all kinds.

How has your art evolved over time?

My work is ever changing. It’s often reflective of, or in response to, what’s going on in my life. I think it’s definitely become more complex. I’m trying to simplify it again.

What do you like most about your work?

The layers and heavy textures.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Dynamic

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I’ve been wanting to explore figurative work, but it doesn’t come to me as easily as painting abstracts.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

Any time I can get in the studio.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

Yes! If I think a painting becomes overworked, I paint over nearly the whole thing with white and leave only my favorite moments.

What is up next on your easel?

A few abstracts and a portrait… maybe.

From The Studio of Leah Rei

Meet our artist Leah Rei! Leah has been creating from a young age which led her to study Fine Arts with an emphasis in Painting at Arizona State University. She finds a great deal of inspiration in nature, and is often drawn to creating works that honor this. When in need of a muse, Leah takes to the trails, hiking to clear her mind and refocus. Working mostly in fluid acrylics, her art is an exploration of color, light and texture with the desire to represent all that inspires her with a sophisticated and thoughtful touch.

What do you do first when you get to the studio?

Turn on the music! Nothing gets me into the “zone” faster than finding just the right station to paint to. Painting in the “zone” feels almost like a runner’s high. Everything is working in harmony: your body, your mind, the paint. The gratification of finding that place of creativity is indescribable. I hunt for the “zone” every day.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

As many as possible! I find myself needing to have multiple pieces going so I don’t get too attached to any particular one. This is not to say that I don’t put great amounts of care into my works, but rather that when I become too attached, I lose the ability to see the piece clearly, to make changes, and, more so, to be surprised by where the piece is taking me. Creating each piece is like going on a journey, the best sights to see are the ones you didn’t know were there.

: “Spring Air”

: “Summer Sunkissed”

: “Nexus III” by Leah Rei

: “Spring Blooms”

: “Blushed Bouquet”

: “Wild Flower Bouquet”

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

“Drifter”

Hmmm… tough question. I love working large. If I had a dream project, it would be something big, site specific, and where a lot of people can enjoy it. By site specific, I mean creating a piece for a specific location, wall, building, etc. It can be a lot of fun drawing inspiration from your surroundings and creating a special piece with this in mind.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Helen Frankenthaler. I am drawn to her confidence, large works, and need to express what she saw and experienced. Mrs. Frankenthaler once said about her own works, “my pictures are full of climates, abstract climates. They’re not nature per se, but a feeling.” I feel similarly about my own pieces, as they are an expression of nature not necessarily a direct depiction.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

Getting outside, fresh air, and nature. My strongest ideas come when I make room for them. A lot of times this is about slowing down and getting in a good hike.

How has your art evolved over time?

I have always had a need to create in me. I started taking art more seriously in high school before deciding to study it in college. Because art has been so prevalent in my life and education, my early works were more technical and somewhat realistic. Over the years, my work has become more and more of an expression of what I see and feel. I am grateful to have such a foundation and technical background but what good is having rules if you can’t break them.

: “Floral Notes”

: “Peaceful Views”

: “Traveler”

: “Cool Breeze”

: “Entwined” by Leah Rei

: “Seasons Come”

: “Blue Magnolia II”

: “Tipping Point” by Leah Rei

What do you like most about your work?

“Meandering”

That I get to be the one to make it. I feel incredibly lucky every day that this is my career.

What is one word that best describes your style?

I am not sure one word is enough but if I had to choose probably fluid.

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I have been thinking a lot recently about how creating is a balancing act. There is a duality that I find fascinating. Art and creating at its best is found in the space between intention and intuition, calculated and spontaneous, vulnerable and strong, knowing and discovering.

: “Hydrangea”

: “First Blush”

: “Sterling Impressions”

: “Warm Waves” by Leah Rei

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

“Whistful”

Early in the morning or late afternoon/evening. The light is amazing.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

Absolutely! Sometimes I just have to put that piece away and get some distance. Looking at it, studying it, hemming and hawing does not get me any closer to completing a piece. Pieces that I am stuck on go in a different room, out of sight, out of mind. I then get to find them later and be surprised by what they have to offer.

What is next up on your easel?

Lots and lots! I have been thinking about a series of landscapes that work with the idea of duality, made up of marks both spontaneous and intentional. Additionally, some more abstract pieces that are light, bright, and airy.

: “Amarantine”

: “Lilacs”

: “Content”

: “Distant Light”

From The Studio of Scott Brems

We are excited to introduce one of our newest artists, Scott Brems! Scott studied painting at Arizona State University and Scottsdale Artists’ School, and he works in acrylic and mixed media painting in his Arizona studio. His work explores the deeper emanations of the natural world, breathing new life into traditional landscape. Enriched by a lifelong relationship with the American West, Scott’s naturalistic reimaginings reach beyond the visual experience to evoke the visceral. We love the bold brushstrokes and colorful shapes in his work, which encompasses a diverse range of styles.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

I usually turn on music and evaluate the current paintings to get my direction for the day.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

I like to have several paintings, 5 or 6, going at once.

: “Reticent I” by Scott Brems

: Reticent II

: Reticent III

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

Passages

One dream project is a painting expedition involving a mobile studio and outdoor adventure. It would be the painting studio meets Desert Solitaire.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Edward Abbey

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

My favorite inspiration and ideas often come to me during hypnagogia–the transitional state of consciousness between wakefulness and sleep.

: Red Seven

: Blue Horizon

: “Traverse I” by Scott Brems

: Blush

: Traverse II

How has your art evolved over time?

I started with a traditional background and education, which I still draw from when creating contemporary abstract work.

The Chant

What do you like most about your work?

I like the fusion between traditional and contemporary elements.

What is one word that best describes your style?

Eclectic best describes the variety of work I create.

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

I have some ideas incubating that involve using new mediums and materials.

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

Discipline is healthy. I try to keep a regular 9-5 schedule in the studio.

Guardian

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

This is why I like having several pieces going at once; I can move on to another painting. However, I do take a break when needed and get out of the studio, and then I come back with fresh eyes.

What is up next on your easel?

On deck is a series of contemporary figures.

: Traveler

: Mercurial

: Silverscape

All of these images by Scott Brems are available in our Print-On-Demand collection, and stay tuned for new images on our site. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

From the Studio of Linda Stelling

We have another artist to share with you! Growing up in an artistically-rich family of painters, craftsmen, musicians, and floral colorists, Linda Stelling was bound for the art world. Her art career has taken her many different places, and now she is continuing the work she began as an abstract expressionist many years ago. She is fueled by her interest in color and the dream studies she has been exposed to for so long. Linda is in the studio every day, and when she’s not, she is planning and studying for the next artwork.

What do you first do when you get to the studio in the morning?

Stretch! I stand all day so it’s important to me to maintain flexibility.

How many paintings do you work on at a time?

It depends. Sometimes I concentrate on only one, especially if it’s really big, but frequently I have several going at a time. If something stays in the studio unfinished too long, I tend to change it.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to work on?

Yes, to be given the opportunity to create for a really large space. I like my work to have ample room to breathe. A nice large, open museum would work.

If you could paint with anyone, who would it be?

Monet for sure. He and I have many of the same artistic principles and very much the same vision. We share a similar color palette, subject matter, philosophies and family values. He and I share a love of gardening and of a simple beautiful flower.

What’s your favorite way of generating ideas and inspiration?

I am always looking and thinking how my internal experiences can meld with my external creativity and perceptions. I often take my dreams and use part or all of the memory to form the beginnings of an idea for a painting. I try to parley the connection of our mental health, to our creative selves; which I feel we all experience on some level.

How has your art evolved over time?

For many years, I painted on a commission basis, which proved to be an incredible training ground. I was able to work quickly and produce just about anything. When I stopped, I was temporarily lost. It was only when I began listening to myself and not caring what anyone else thought, that I began to be truly satisfied with my own work.

What do you like most about your work?

My work has so much energy and life. I am a colorist by nature and I enjoy making the color move to what has been described as a “Psychic Vibration.”

What is one word that best describes your style?

Expressive.

Is there an idea you would like to explore?

Anything curvilinear delights me!

What is your favorite time of day to paint?

Morning and afternoon – until I lose the light.

Do you ever get “stuck” on a piece? If so, what do you do?

Turn it upside down!

What is up next on your easel?

I’m developing an abstract series based on Monet and his gardens at Giverney.

Linda’s work is available in our Print-On-Demand collection. Some areas of our website are password-protected. If you are a member of the trade but don’t have full access to our website, www.thirdandwall.com, please contact us at customerservice@thirdandwall.com.

West Coast Art & Frame Expo 2016

Right now in Seattle, we’re busy preparing for the West Coast Art & Frame Expo, which takes place at the Paris Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas on January 25, 26 and 27th. Each year, we eagerly await this event as it gives us a chance to meet face to face with many of our customers.

When you stop by our Booth #232, we will brainstorm new ideas and trends, take you through our huge collection of exclusive new imagery for POD and licensing, give you a first-hand look at a variety of products and substrates that feature our images, introduce new artists and also catch up with old friends in the industry!

Two new artists will be introduced:

The stunning photography of KaCee Erle

: Soft Leather

: Horsetails

: Dreamland VIII

And the ethereal work of Corrie LaVelle

: “Sincerity” by Corrie LaVelle

You’ll also be able to flip through our Lookbooks for fresh images to incorporate in your line.

Just a few of the Third and Wall Lookbooks

Applications of our imagery on these popular substrates will be displayed as well:

Dibond metal
Resin
Flushmount
Acrylic

You’ll find us at Booth #232 ready to discuss how our imagery and products can help you grow your business. If you’d like to schedule a meeting, please contact your sales rep or call 877-326-3925.

We look forward to seeing you there!