Tag Archives: Contemporary Art

“Transitions: Works by Francoise Gilot”

Francoise Gilot 'Applause' Oil on Canvas
Francoise Gilot ‘Applause’ Oil on Canvas, Photo Romi Cortier
Francoise Gilot, Oil on Canvas, Photo Romi Cortier
Francoise Gilot, Oil on Canvas, Photo Romi Cortier

 

Francoise Gilot, 'Sea Goddess', Oil on Canvas, Photo Romi Cortier
Francoise Gilot, ‘Sea Goddess’, Oil on Canvas, Photo Romi Cortier

“Transitions: Works by Francoise Gilot” was a remarkable exhibit that I had the pleasure of seeing at the Oceanside Museum in the summer of 2011. It was curated by Mel Yoakum Ph. D, author of ‘Monograph 1940 – 2000′ Francoise Gilot: Painting – Malerei and Stone Echoes: Original Prints by Francoise Gilot – A Catalogue Raisonne. 

Mel’s knowledge of Gilot’s work is extensive, especially with their 20 plus years of collaboration which began in 1987.  His lecture was rich in detail, and was one of those moments in story telling that you never wanted to end.  The exhibit began with her Labyrinth Series and included important works into the 21st Century. Had I of known I’d be writing this blog post, I would have taken greater care to to get clearer images with the proper dates and titles. The images above were my favorites, and I snapped the photos for my own personal reference. However, they do not begin to capture the remarkable depth of this exhibit.

Due to its resounding success, the ‘Transitions‘ exhibit was taken to the Berman Museum of Art at Ursinus College in the summer of 2012.  To learn more about Gilot’s work, go to francoisegilot.com. 

 

 

Tulip Paintings

Lavender Tulips, Gouache on Paper, by Romi Cortier
Lavender Tulips, Gouache on Paper, by Romi Cortier, Sold

Here’s my most recent series of paintings: Tulips, works on paper. They’re freer and more spontaneous than my oil paintings on canvas.

I started by photographing a large glass vase full of tulips in my art studio, then, a few months later, worked to reinterpret the images with Gouache on paper. Gouache is a water based paint that is thicker than traditional water color paint. Apparently, before graphic design went digital with the rest of the world, gouache was the medium of choice. This medium allows the user to create  rich saturated colors that dry very quickly, especially when compared to oil on canvas.  Even though I’d used gouache paint in my design classes at UCLA,  I’d never really considered using it as a professional medium until I saw the work of Richard Diebenkorn at the Palm Springs Art Museum last fall. (Richard Diebenkorn: The Berkeley Years, 1953 – 1966) His moody saturated images really spoke to me, so I dug out my old tubes of gouache paint, bought a few new colors and went to work.  The above painting, Lavender Tulips,  is the third work in my progression of Tulip Paintings and is currently being framed.  Below you’ll see Orange Tulips, the first in the series, and Purple Tulips (which has already sold).  Additional inspiration came from the vintage print works of Francoise Gilot.

Orange Tulips, Gouache on Paper, by Romi Cortier
Orange Tulips, Gouache on Paper, by Romi Cortier
Purple Tulips, Gouache on Paper, by Romi Cortier, Sold
Purple Tulips, Gouache on Paper, by Romi Cortier, Sold

Below is a Flipagram (cool iphone/ipad App) that will let you tell any story in 15 seconds. In my Flipagram, I show you the evolution of Lavender Tulips from start to finish.

 

Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum

Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Entry Rotunda, Photo Romi Cortier
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Entry Rotunda, Photo Romi Cortier
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Photo Romi Cortier
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Photo Romi Cortier
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum,  Ballroom, Photo Romi Cortier
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Ballroom, Photo Romi Cortier
PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Photo Romi Cortier
PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Photo Romi Cortier
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Presidential Limousine, Photo Romi Cortier
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Presidential Limousine, Photo Romi Cortier
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Presidential Helicopter, Photo Romi Cortier
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Presidential Helicopter, Photo Romi Cortier

The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum was host to The Portraits of the Fallen Memorial exhibition from May 10, 2014 – July 6, 2014.

I will admit that I was apprehensive about going to the Nixon Library to attend the Portraits of the Fallen Memorial exhibition. However, after spending the better part of the day touring the massive exhibits and beautiful grounds, I found it quite educational. I’ve decided that while this may be my first experience at a Presidential Library, it certainly won’t be my last. It was after all,  a museum.   A museum complete with gifts to President Nixon, clothing worn by First Lady Pat Nixon, campaign memorabilia, video footage… oh yeah, and of course those pesky watergate tapes. I may be a left leaning guy politically, but If I can’t keep an open mind, then I’m just another extremist.

The most poignant part of my experience at the Nixon Library was to see President Nixon‘s birthplace, and then understand the trajectory of his life that brought him full circle to his final resting place next to First Lady Pat Nixon, about 100 feet from where he was born. I was a bit startled to see their headstones, but I know it’s a sentiment my late mother would have loved, to be buried near her roses.

I also have to say that I love the pomp and circumstance associated with all things Presidential, regardless of party. To me, that’s simply being American.  I loved seeing the Presidential Seal on the 1967 Presidential Limousine that carried Presidents Johnson, Nixon, Ford and Carter. Apparently it weighs as much as that Presidential Helicopter… all 11,000 pounds. In fact, the 1977 Guinness Book of World Records states that this is “the most expensive car ever built… cost for research, development and manufacturing was estimated at $500,000.” President Obama’s 2009 Cadillac Limousine is assumed to have cost $300,000. I would have guessed higher considering the expense of technology… maybe it’s made in China. (Oops, did I just say that?) Seriously though, if you live near a Presidential Library, or are considering visiting one, I highly recommend it. You’ll without a doubt be enriched by your experience. And if all else fails, attend a wedding at one.  My research shows that this particular Presidential Library is a hot spot for weddings.

FYI – American Flag Protocol recommends our flag should lead, not follow, and should always be attached to the front right corner of an automobile, preferably the chassis.

 

 

Portraits of the Fallen Memorial at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum

PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Photo Romi Cortier
PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Photo Romi Cortier
Romi Cortier at Portraits of the Fallen Memorial, Photo Curator Sherry Moore
Romi Cortier at Portraits of the Fallen Memorial, Photo Curator Sherry Moore
PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Photo Romi Cortier
PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Photo Romi Cortier
PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Photo Romi Cortier
PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Left to Right: Louis J. Langlais-Artist Seda Baghdasarian, Andrew R. Tobin-Artist Allise Pelham, Tyler N. Holtz – Artist Dennis Carrie, Carlo F. Eugenio-Artist Elizabeth McGhee, Christoper G. Singer-Artist T. Berg Kvitky
PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Photo Romi Cortier
PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL, Left to Right: Jose Casanova-Artist Elizabeth B. Tucker, Christopher G. Nason-Artist Romi Cortier, Justin W. Pollard-Artist Kent Twitchell, Michael A. DiRamondo-Artist Christina Ramos

PORTRAITS of the FALLEN MEMORIAL at the Richard Nixon Library  and Museum closes this Sunday July 6th.

Three years ago curator Sherry Moore contacted me to participate in this amazing project to commemorate and remember our fallen soldiers from the Iraq  or Afghanistan War.  This project is near and dear to Sherry’s heart, as she too is a veteran. There are 158 portraits of the California fallen completed to date, with an ultimate goal to depict each of the over 6,500 fallen U.S. heroes.  This exhibit demonstrates the importance of serving our country, but is also a reminder of the sacrifices of our fallen heroes and the impact their service has had upon their families and communities.

My contribution to this memorial project was the portrait of Christopher G. Nason, bottom photo, second from the left. My research indicated that Mr. Nason had a tremendous affect on those he came in contact with, leaving them with a big smile. Therefore, I chose brightly colored stars for his background, to imbue his patriotism with his lively spirit. I also used gold leaf on the sides of the 5×5 painting to create a little extra glow around him.

I myself am from a long line of military personnel, however, I knew the military experience wasn’t for me. Both my birth father and step father served in the military, and I have a nephew currently serving as an officer, as well as a nephew-in-law serving.  Therefore, giving back in this very small yet personal way by painting Christopher G. Nason, was the very least that I could do. Having suffered a tremendous loss myself this year, brings home to me the very painful reality of losing anyone we love, whether it be a parent,  a child or a significant other… loss is loss. I wish I’d started my blog sooner to get the word out during the beginning of this very  important and touching exhibit. However, If you aren’t able to see it before it closes, I’m confident there will be other opportunities to view it here in southern California.

www.PortraitsoftheFallenMemorial.org or on Facebook

 

The Evolution of Artist Alberto Murillo

Alaberto Murillo, 'Nassau, 50 x 40, (private collection)
Alaberto Murillo, ‘Nassau, 50 x 40, Acrylic/Resin on Board (private collection)
Alberto Murillo, 'Taormina', 50 x 40, Acrylic/Resin on Board
Alberto Murillo, ‘Taormina’, 50 x 40, Acrylic/Resin on Board, Image courtesy JoAnne Artman Gallery
Alberto Murillo, 'Chanel No. 5', 30x40, Acrylic/Resin on Board
Alberto Murillo, ‘Chanel No. 5’, 30×40, Acrylic/Resin on Board, Image Courtesy JoAnne Artman Gallery

It’s been very exciting to observe the Evolution of Artist Alberto Murillo during the last couple of years. I fist became of aware of his work at the JoAnne Artman Gallery in Laguna Beach. I’d wandered into her gallery after  having lunch with a friend, and she greeted us with such enthusiasm.  New to the neighborhood in 2008, her gallery is part of ‘Gallery Row’ at 326 North Coast Highway. She gladly gave us a tour and began educating us about her roster of artists.

At that time, Alberto’s work was very horizontal, or vertical depending on how you hung it, with thin lines of acrylic/resin on board. I thought it was unique, but it didn’t resonate with me. Cut to a gallery opening a year later with pieces like ‘Nassau‘ and ‘Taormina‘ and I was very intrigued. Murillo explained that he’d observed the resin on the floor after creating the vertical pieces and loved how the colors over lapped and melded together. He refers to this as his ‘Therapy Series‘ that helped pull him out of a very dark place.  The latest twist to his work is sandblasting away part of the resin to create an image, such as ‘Chanel No. 5′. Matte against shiny. It’s absolutely stunning in person. If it’s good enough for the Givenchy Family in NYC, then it’s good enough for me… adding it to my ‘must have’ list.