tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36328346491254750872024-03-13T08:54:04.253-04:00Art, Murals, and MinistryUpdates, Images, and thoughts from North Carolina artist, Jeremy SamsJeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.comBlogger134125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-76179734965139050392013-09-17T20:34:00.000-04:002013-09-17T20:35:58.084-04:00Updated WebsiteI didn't realize how long it has been since I wrote a blog. Most of my painting blogs have been recorded at my updated website:<a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/">jeremysams.com</a><br />
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Thanks!<br />
JeremyJeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-36743983254859273182013-02-25T10:12:00.001-05:002013-02-25T11:23:35.354-05:00North Ridge Country Club's People's Choice Award<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FSq-bHOTED4/UStoHz_PINI/AAAAAAAAAeE/I2whSsKlqFk/s1600/IMG_1591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FSq-bHOTED4/UStoHz_PINI/AAAAAAAAAeE/I2whSsKlqFk/s320/IMG_1591.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Jeremy with "Morning At Cloudland"</div>
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Humbled...overwhelmed...Shocked! These are a few of the words to describe my emotions I felt this past weekend at the North Ridge Country Club Art Gala, Raleigh, NC. As I walked into the ball room after we first arrived, I remember thinking, "Oh my! There's some great art here...am I supposed to be here?" Honestly, I was hoping to see some mediocre art displays, since this was a juried event. Of course, every artist wants to have the nicest looking art at a show. So, needless to say, I was a bit nervous.<br />
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There were 25 pieces to be juried which were selected out of a host of other submitted artwork throughout the state, of which my "Morning At Cloudland" was picked. At the beginning of the event, Jennifer Dasal, Associate Curator of
Contemporary Art at the North Carolina Museum of Art, (the juror of the
show) announced her 1st, 2nd, and 3rd picks. My name wasn't called..."Oh well...at least I got in the show", I thought to myself. Just being chosen to be in the show was a huge honor to begin with, so even though I was a bit saddened, I was grateful just to be there among such talented artists.<br />
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Toward the end of the night, George Wallace, one of the masterminds behind the event called everyone's attention back to main stage. It was time to announce the "People's Choice Award". Elevated on the stage was a painting hidden behind a draped cloth. My wife, Crystal, nervously informs me to stop chatting with the other artists and look. "I think that's your painting!" she exclaimed. The dimensions of the painting looked like mine, but, "maybe there were other paintings the same size", I thought. I became tense, I think I felt a bead of sweat form on my brow. The drum roll seemed to last for minutes...the anticipation was killing me. Finally, the cloth was removed and there stood my painting. There I stood, humbled, overwhelmed and shocked!<br />
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We met so many talented artists and wonderful art collectors that night. It was truly a joyous experience. Below are a few pieces of art from the artists that I had the privilege to meet:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yi2jnQN27No/UPNnpkkHRSI/AAAAAAAAEHY/_nzwYRR73BU/s1600/White-Horse-Head-Orange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yi2jnQN27No/UPNnpkkHRSI/AAAAAAAAEHY/_nzwYRR73BU/s320/White-Horse-Head-Orange.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.smfilarsky.com/">Stephen Filarsky</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q34KlUwuVtA/USt7ZMU75TI/AAAAAAAAAec/4qiX_z6uM4w/s1600/304866_3661269099657_145045095_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q34KlUwuVtA/USt7ZMU75TI/AAAAAAAAAec/4qiX_z6uM4w/s320/304866_3661269099657_145045095_n.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.artistjamesdaniel.com/American_Artist_James_Daniel/Main.html">James Daniel</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8LCPvb2g5tM/USt8srYt9wI/AAAAAAAAAek/X7fp7U62w0I/s1600/IMG_1589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8LCPvb2g5tM/USt8srYt9wI/AAAAAAAAAek/X7fp7U62w0I/s320/IMG_1589.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.gerarderley.com/Home.html">Gerard Erley</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.matttomkoart.com/">Matt Tomko</a></div>
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There were many more artists that we met but I failed to get pics of their work...sorry about that.<br />
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I'd like to say thank you to the North Ridge Country Club in Raleigh, NC for allowing us to come, to all those who voted for my painting, and a special thank you to God for His wonderful blessings and provision. He is faithful.<br />
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Soli Deo Gloria.Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-82890747037229877062013-01-30T08:41:00.003-05:002013-01-30T08:41:43.138-05:00Sorrow Turned to Joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nf1U_q-6_30/UQir0Ct3ryI/AAAAAAAAAdw/PNpAZPZ1ET8/s1600/crossover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nf1U_q-6_30/UQir0Ct3ryI/AAAAAAAAAdw/PNpAZPZ1ET8/s320/crossover.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>The Cross-over</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">12x9 acrylic on panel</span></div>
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Sorrow...it's inevitable. Job 14:1 tells us, "Man [that is] born of a woman [is] of few days, and full of trouble." Last week, we lost a dear friend. She was the piano player at our church and a real spark plug...always smiling with her own unique little giggle, and never one to back down from a friendly match in sarcasm. Carol was a real jewel of a lady, and a jewel of a Christian. She will be greatly missed. </div>
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Her passing was unexpected and a shock to our whole church family and I can only imagine what her immediate family is going through right now. No doubt, their world has been engulfed with sorrow.</div>
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The disciples of Jesus also knew full well this feeling of sorrow. In John 16:16, Jesus tells them, "A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father."</div>
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They, of course, didn't comprehend this proverb and begin to question amongst themselves what He meant. Jesus then answers their questioning hearts with a proclamation explained by an object lesson of child-birth. He said, </div>
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"Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the
world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be
turned into joy.
A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come:
but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more
the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.
And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you."
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There is much to be said about these few verses, but the main idea that catches my attention is the fact that the object which brings so much sorrow to the mother is the same object that brings much joy. What is it that causes this mother excruciating pain and brings her to a place nearest to death? The culprit of the pain is <i>the baby</i>. Yet, when the baby is delivered, it is this same baby that becomes the source of joy. It's not some phase-like process as if the object of pain evolves into a totally different object of pure bliss. No, it's the same object.<br />
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To the disciples, the death, or the "not seeing me" of Christ was the cause of this extreme sorrow that was felt by them. However, this same crucifixion would be the reconciling of everyone who believes to God. Jesus Christ would drink the cup of God's wrath for all who are willing to come to Christ. Three days later, He would be raised in vindication of His own righteousness and holiness. Through this resurrection, their sorrow would be turned into, or <i>become</i> joy!<br />
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We can say like Paul, "But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ!" This object of death has now become our banner of life!<br />
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Another interesting detail is the "who's seeing who" in this passage. Notice in verse 16, twice He mentions "ye" seeing. He says, "ye shall not see me" and, "ye shall see me". However, in verse 22, there's no mention of "ye seeing" but of Jesus <i>seeing you</i>. Notice also the shift from sorrow to joy is after the reference of Jesus seeing you.<br />
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How can we apply this and why is it relevant? I can speak personally here...there are times when I've been consumed in sorrow...times of holding a limp lifeless child...times of financial ruin...times of abandonment...times of betrayal...times of sickness, physical ailments, etc...In all these times, it has been so difficult to be able, with eyes of faith, to see Jesus. It's as if the circumstance that is causing my sorrow and my own unbelief builds this massive solid wall between Him and me. "Lord, where are you?" I cry out. In my darkest of hours, it's as if He's hidden.<br />
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Luckily, my joy does not have to be hinged upon whether or not I can see Him. I see through a glass darkly, and my lack of faith makes my spiritual vision cloudy. No, my joy is not founded upon whether or not I can see Him, but it is foundational upon the fact that <i>He sees me!</i> What a glorious truth to know that the supreme Joy giver has set <i>His eyes</i> upon me. When I can't see Him, He sees me...when I can't hold onto Him, He's holding me! In this passage, Jesus redirects our perspective. Do we look to Him? Yes, but it is only because He has first set His eyes upon us. Do we love Him? Yes, but only because He first loved us.<br />
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Finally, we see that Jesus, Himself, is the object of the joy that no man can take from you. If we're searching for joy in anything else, it will be short-lived. If we're searching for joy in money, a simple turn of events can wipe it out. If you're searching for joy in relationships, you'll never be satisfied in fleeting emotions and fairy tale dreams. If you're searching for joy in your self-worth, you'll never measure up. If you're searching for joy in family or friends, they'll die. True joy...irrevocable joy, can only be found in that which can never again die. It is found in Solus Christus, Jesus Christ alone.<br />
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In order for this joy to be irrevocable, it can not be an object that is temporary; it must be everlasting. Only one Man fits this requirement: the resurrected Christ. Carol is now experiencing this reality face to face.. Because of the resurrection, she is now in the presence of Joy that will never die. Because of the resurrection, her joy is now eternal.<br />
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I pray that sorrow will be turned to joy for the Shackelford family in this season.Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-54667866471841859452013-01-07T15:02:00.002-05:002013-01-07T15:06:55.562-05:00Plein Air With Triad Outdoor Painters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xa3moUrch7M/UOskF-FKcaI/AAAAAAAAAcI/QDI7kTbgPlc/s1600/IMG_20130103_132757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xa3moUrch7M/UOskF-FKcaI/AAAAAAAAAcI/QDI7kTbgPlc/s320/IMG_20130103_132757.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Is it ever too cold to plein air paint? If you're using acrylic paints, I suppose so...one of my last trips painting in cold weather resulted in me having to pack it up early because my brushes wouldn't move the paint due to being frozen solid with ice. This day, however, was a bit warmer. Cold, nonetheless...but not cold enough to freeze my brushes!<br />
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I had the privilege of painting with a fairly new painting group called "Triad Outdoor Painters". They meet regularly in the Germanton, NC area. Artists from Winston Salem, Mount Airy, High Point, Greensboro, and other surrounding areas are a part of this group.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tpTEv6gDmEU/UOslzzGnrMI/AAAAAAAAAck/aZrMc5xUPjE/s1600/craig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tpTEv6gDmEU/UOslzzGnrMI/AAAAAAAAAck/aZrMc5xUPjE/s320/craig.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is Craig Richardson. I met Craig at a paint out near Blowing Rock, NC. He's the organizer of the group.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VE2H-U0C4cw/UOsmM_EKvvI/AAAAAAAAAcs/5Mn9dxFdadI/s1600/dolly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VE2H-U0C4cw/UOsmM_EKvvI/AAAAAAAAAcs/5Mn9dxFdadI/s320/dolly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Painting along with Craig is Dolly Manion, who is also from High Point, NC. It's always good to meet neighbors who share the same painting interests. Behind those clouds at the horizon is Pilot Mountain. It would peek out throughout the day as the clouds moved.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wTTiKU68hAc/UOsm6tZciBI/AAAAAAAAAc4/sHrnaYI5KWU/s1600/arlene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wTTiKU68hAc/UOsm6tZciBI/AAAAAAAAAc4/sHrnaYI5KWU/s320/arlene.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Here is Arlene Daniel's plein air set up and painting....always a good idea to have your vehicle nearby in case you need to sit and rest or warm up!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2MDVORRdxQQ/UOsngHKk1iI/AAAAAAAAAdI/4xm4iuwgmxw/s1600/gailspane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2MDVORRdxQQ/UOsngHKk1iI/AAAAAAAAAdI/4xm4iuwgmxw/s320/gailspane.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
This is artist, Gail Spane Jr. from Mount Airy. I have to admit, he's probably the smartest of the bunch that day as he painted from his home-made painting station from his truck.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xa3moUrch7M/UOskF-FKcaI/AAAAAAAAAcI/QDI7kTbgPlc/s1600/IMG_20130103_132757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xa3moUrch7M/UOskF-FKcaI/AAAAAAAAAcI/QDI7kTbgPlc/s320/IMG_20130103_132757.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
You can see how many containers I have open here...4. Titanium white, ultramarine blue, cadmium red medium, and cadmium yellow medium. For this dreary overcast day, I only needed my very limited palette of 4 colors. The good thing about painting on an overcast day is that you don't have to chase shadows. The light remains very constant and my acrylic paints stayed wet for a good long while.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hlOr_LnkqIU/UOso12xRC4I/AAAAAAAAAdc/aOUMyhnFLoY/s1600/IMG_1404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hlOr_LnkqIU/UOso12xRC4I/AAAAAAAAAdc/aOUMyhnFLoY/s320/IMG_1404.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here's my final painting...9x12 acrylic on panel en plein air.</div>
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<br />Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-25779922768153166542012-12-12T18:19:00.000-05:002012-12-12T18:19:38.510-05:00Am I therefore become your enemy...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ac4LbwieP-Q/UMkQ2bfS7VI/AAAAAAAAAbw/ykLtWytINB0/s1600/kids-fighting-thumb17883552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ac4LbwieP-Q/UMkQ2bfS7VI/AAAAAAAAAbw/ykLtWytINB0/s320/kids-fighting-thumb17883552.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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In our study of the Epistle to the Galatians on Wednesday nights at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, I came across the verse which I find relevant to a popular mentality<i> </i>of today:<br />
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"Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?" Galatians 4:16</blockquote>
Here's a commentary from<i> Barnes Notes on the Bible</i> concerning this passage:<br />
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"Am I therefore become your enemy ... - Is my telling you the truth in
regard to the tendency of the doctrines which you have embraced, and
the character of those who have led you astray, and your own error, a
proof that I have ceased to be your friend? How apt are we to feel that
the man who tells us of our faults is our enemy! How apt are we to treat
him coldly, and to "cut his acquaintance," and to regard him with
dislike! The reason is, he gives us pain; and we cannot have pain given
to us, even by the stone against which we stumble, or by any of the
brute creation, without momentary indignation, or regarding them for a
time as our enemies. Besides, we do not like to have another person
acquainted with our faults and our follies; and we naturally avoid the
society of those who are thus acquainted with us. Such is human nature;
and it requires no little grace for us to overcome this. and to regard
the man who tells us of our faults, or the faults of our families, as
our friend.<br />
We love to be flattered, and to have our friends
flattered; and we shrink with pain from any exposure, or any necessity
for repentance. Hence, we become alienated from him who is faithful in
reproving us for our faults. Hence, people become offended with their
ministers when they reprove them for their sins. Hence, they become
offended at the truth. Hence, they resist the influences of the Holy
Spirit, whose office it is to bring the truth to the heart, and to
reprove men for their sins. There is nothing more difficult than to
regard with steady and unwavering affection the man who faithfully tells
us the truth at all times, when that truth is painful. Yet he is our
best friend. "Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an
enemy are deceitful," <a href="http://bible.cc/proverbs/27-6.htm">Proverbs 27:6</a>.
If I am in danger of falling down a precipice, he shows to me the
purest friendship who tells me of it; if I am in danger of breathing the
air of the pestilence, and it can be avoided, he shows to me pure
kindness who tells me of it. So still more, if I am indulging in a
course of conduct that may ruin me, or cherishing error that may
endanger my salvation, he shows me the purest friendship who is most
faithful in warning me, and apprising me of what must be the termination
of my course."</blockquote>
I couldn't have said it better myself. Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-11537857678855548092012-11-12T11:12:00.000-05:002012-11-14T07:47:14.110-05:00Portrait Ornaments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vNxSzKyOQ0U/UKEZgVFwrRI/AAAAAAAAAbI/vi5BhxvD0CE/s1600/zionornament.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vNxSzKyOQ0U/UKEZgVFwrRI/AAAAAAAAAbI/vi5BhxvD0CE/s320/zionornament.jpg" width="174" /></a></div>
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Here's my latest project for preserving memories...portrait ornaments. The ornaments are oval masonite panels (same material as my <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/plein%20air.html">plein air</a> paintings) that measure approx. 4.25". The name of the individual, as well as the year, can be painted on the ornament. Attached at the top is a nice little bow and ribbon of the color of your choice which will match the backside of the ornament. </div>
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Each ornament is a hand painted portrait from the photograph of the customer's choice and is varnished once completed to make sure it's nice and sealed. Most ornaments I paint are of a single individual. More people can be painted, but I may have to rotate the ornament to a horizontal position. The price will vary depending upon how many individuals are in the portrait. <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/contact.html">Contact me</a> for pricing and more info on muti-person portraits.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">How Do I order a portrait ornament?</span></div>
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All you need to do is provide me with a good digital picture that you could email to me at jeremy@jeremysams.com . If you need to pay online, I will set up a paypal link when your order is complete. In order to do this, I will also need to know if you'll need the ornament shipped or if you'll be willing to pick it up. I also accept checks, if you prefer this method. Be sure to think about what color you would want the back of the ornament painted, as well as the ribbon color, and include this in your email.</div>
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Be sure to visit my website to view more ornaments and artwork <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/">www.jeremysams.com</a></div>
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Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-34374025636824772682012-09-25T15:39:00.000-04:002012-09-26T11:15:13.289-04:00Firefighter Christmas Ornament<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3OPENovh4Q/UGH-xw0CZwI/AAAAAAAAAaw/icdfvMLEFyI/s1600/firefighter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3OPENovh4Q/UGH-xw0CZwI/AAAAAAAAAaw/icdfvMLEFyI/s320/firefighter.jpg" width="304" /></a></div>
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<i>Firefighter Christmas Ornament</i></div>
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$20</div>
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September is a month infused with many memories. We reflect back to 2001 and remember that tragic day that many lost their lives due to a terrorist attack upon our own soil. In remembering that day, you can't help but think of all those men and women who risked their lives and the many who <i>gave</i> their lives to help others. The firefighter is one of those special people that stand out in my mind when I think of 9/11.</div>
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The firefighter has an incredible duty upon his shoulders. He is trained in how to rescue the perishing and how to quench the fires that are given to destruction. In an emergency situation, their training kicks in, and without hesitation they forget themselves and go to the heat. Their fears are overcome by a passion to save others from a horrible fate. This is courage. This is selflessness...risking your life for the benefit of another.</div>
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As a Christian, I can find many good qualities from the firefighter. When it comes to eternal matters, there is nothing more destructive than God's wrath upon sinners. We, as Christians, are called and (should be) equipped to be ministers of reconciliation. Man is perishing in sin and apart from the atonement made through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus the Messiah, man will suffer God's righteous wrath, which means an eternity in the lake of fire. It is our obligation to be like the brave firefighter by manifesting that quality of selflessness, overcoming our fears with the passion of saving others from eternal death.</div>
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"Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men;..."</div>
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2 Corinthians 5:11</div>
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"The Firefighter" Christmas ornament is available for purchase. The top and edges are ready for customization in case you want someone's name and date painted on it. If you're interested in this ornament and you need it shipped, you can order through my website <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/christmas%20ornaments.html">Here</a>. If you don't need it shipped, order <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/christmas%20ornaments%20no%20shipping.html">Here</a>. If you want to order more than one and would like to save on shipping charges, <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/contact.html">Contact Me</a>.</div>
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Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-91116154341670409442012-08-13T10:46:00.002-04:002012-08-13T10:46:39.737-04:00August Portrait Special!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-niM98cQr_Hc/UCkTOcILnLI/AAAAAAAAAac/iC-yfEGHaaM/s1600/gail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-niM98cQr_Hc/UCkTOcILnLI/AAAAAAAAAac/iC-yfEGHaaM/s320/gail.jpg" width="268" /></a></div>
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<i>Gail Gurley</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">20x16 acrylic on canvas</span></div>
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For the rest of the month of August, 2012 I'll be offering a painted
portrait special. The special will include a bust portrait, like the one
above, of a single individual painted on a 16x20 canvas. The portrait
will be painted from a photograph.</div>
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The usual price for a portrait of this size is $600, but for the month
of August, these portraits will be available for $350. So, if you're
interested in getting your Christmas shopping done early, and want
something unique and original, order a hand painted portrait! </div>
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Visit my<a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/portraits.html"> portraits</a> page to see more. <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/contact.html">Contact me</a> if you're interested!</div>
Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-14766119499321696692012-08-08T09:08:00.000-04:002012-08-08T09:08:32.472-04:00My Latest Pochade Box<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1w_buDRTrq0/UCHbniLRXPI/AAAAAAAAAY4/OQwOXAMvR0k/s1600/IMG_0465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1w_buDRTrq0/UCHbniLRXPI/AAAAAAAAAY4/OQwOXAMvR0k/s320/IMG_0465.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Agur wrote in the Book of Proverbs 30:15-16,<br />
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"...There are three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things say not, It is enough:
The grave; and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water; and the fire that saith not, It is enough."</blockquote>
I believe Agur would have added one more character if he would've know any plein air painters in his day..."the plein air painter saith not, just one pochade box is enough".<br />
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This is my 3rd box, and I just can't get enough of the thrill of building my own homemade pochade boxes. So, what's different from this one and the other two? Well, I'm an acrylic artist, and I get tired of my paint drying so fast and being wasted en plein air. Us acrylic artists have several things against us besides the fast drying qualities of acrylics...heat, wind, and transportation from one place to the next while our acrylics sit and dry in transport. The heat and wind I can't help...but the drying-during-transport problem...I can.<br />
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I finally bought a sealable palette from Hobby Lobby (40% off coupon, of course) to help with my wasting paint dilemma. So, I had to build a new pochade box to accommodate the 9.25" wide, 13.25" long, and 1.25" deep dimensions of the palette. I used the same materials as my <a href="http://jeremysams.blogspot.com/2012/01/new-homemade-pochade-box.html">second homemade pochade box</a>...except for the friction hinges as found on my <a href="http://jeremysams.blogspot.com/2011/05/pochade-box-updates.html">first box</a>. The increase of weight, due to the increase in size of the box, caused me to incorporate some new features. Instead of mounting my water can on the box along with a brush holder, I decided to make a separate panel to mount to my tripod legs to hold that extra bit of weight. See below:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4D4O8Cnq7iQ/UCHlDXEtP_I/AAAAAAAAAZM/QiyQWikysic/s1600/IMG_0464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4D4O8Cnq7iQ/UCHlDXEtP_I/AAAAAAAAAZM/QiyQWikysic/s320/IMG_0464.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This little panel slips onto the front two legs of my tripod. With the large hole cut into the front center, it snugly holds my brush cleaner eliminating the weight that would have been hanging off one side of the box...causing more stress on the head of my tripod. A slot was cut on the right in order to slip my knotted cotton rag into for wiping brushes. My brushes stand comfortably upright in the holes drilled on the left. It also works well to rest things on top of...such as my spray bottle of slow drying medium/water...or, more palette space, if you needed it.<br />
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When I'm finished painting, I remove the panel and place it on top of my sealable palette, close the lid...and, voila! Now, I'm ready to travel again.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tkthgHj51OU/UCHmUWUUCbI/AAAAAAAAAZU/DtCFkuMvPc0/s1600/IMG_0466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tkthgHj51OU/UCHmUWUUCbI/AAAAAAAAAZU/DtCFkuMvPc0/s320/IMG_0466.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Even though the box is slightly larger than my first homemade pochade box, it still fits easily into my back pack. The canvas panels attach the same way as my other boxes, courtesy of the design of <a href="http://jimserrettstudio.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-to-build-your-own-pochade-box.html">Jim Serrett</a>.<br />
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Here's a pic of my sealable palette...notice the moist chamois cloth mounted in the lid:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9SAHkZx5ax0/UCHp7ZpCX_I/AAAAAAAAAZs/fWJ_bw1gXw4/s1600/IMG_0626%5B1%5D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9SAHkZx5ax0/UCHp7ZpCX_I/AAAAAAAAAZs/fWJ_bw1gXw4/s320/IMG_0626%5B1%5D" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qJGindTWzPs/UCHqX8WROmI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/lvjsrI6lInc/s1600/IMG_0628%255B1%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qJGindTWzPs/UCHqX8WROmI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/lvjsrI6lInc/s320/IMG_0628%255B1%255D" width="320" /></a></div>
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The chamois cloth keeps moisture in the sealed palette to keep the paint from drying. It's attached to the lid by using velcro. You can buy sticky-sided velcro at your local hardware store by the foot. I bought one foot of this material for about $1.60 or so. The velcro is stuck to the lid with it's rough side facing up...Thanks to my wife, Crystal, the opposite piece was <i>sown</i> into the chamois cloth...the sticky side of the velcro wouldn't stick to the wet chamois material, so it had to be sown.<br />
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Notice the red and yellow paint on the lid? Yeah, that's my one critique of the Golden Open Acrylics...great paint and very slow drying...but a little runny. Hiking several miles in the mountains...with my palette inside my new homemade pochade box...while tucked inside my backpack in a vertical position...causes the paint to run all over the place making my palette look like a small Jackson Pollock painting. So...back to the drawing board on how to fix that problem.<br />
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It just never ends. But, it's all in good fun :)<br />
<br />Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-1256153239271576492012-07-16T20:59:00.000-04:002012-07-16T20:59:25.351-04:00Woodmen Center Mural<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here's the progress on the mural I'm painting at the Woodmen Center, in Kinston, NC. The dimensions are approx. 37'x9.5'.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mEZ-43Q6X9w/UAMzc6ho7_I/AAAAAAAAAX4/29NQX8d47nQ/s1600/IMG_0361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mEZ-43Q6X9w/UAMzc6ho7_I/AAAAAAAAAX4/29NQX8d47nQ/s320/IMG_0361.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I drew in the sports figures and the flag background on the 1st day.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-alTmY0tLFdM/UAMzibuDjxI/AAAAAAAAAYA/L07RYGUgOnQ/s1600/IMG_0362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-alTmY0tLFdM/UAMzibuDjxI/AAAAAAAAAYA/L07RYGUgOnQ/s320/IMG_0362.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Day 2...I began painting.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CjnCfSulFic/UAMzoNgBNQI/AAAAAAAAAYM/c4DJkGQt_eo/s1600/IMG_0379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CjnCfSulFic/UAMzoNgBNQI/AAAAAAAAAYM/c4DJkGQt_eo/s320/IMG_0379.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOjdR0pAYrE/UAMzt_XlnwI/AAAAAAAAAYU/BCzKe7Y7W30/s1600/IMG_0380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOjdR0pAYrE/UAMzt_XlnwI/AAAAAAAAAYU/BCzKe7Y7W30/s320/IMG_0380.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love this lift...the bounciness of it, however, does keep you on your toes.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LbF46ahqZ-g/UAMzyna18lI/AAAAAAAAAYc/HmyQEFrhJLE/s1600/IMG_0381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LbF46ahqZ-g/UAMzyna18lI/AAAAAAAAAYc/HmyQEFrhJLE/s320/IMG_0381.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Day 3...finished drawing off the left side of the mural</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hel0wRsE1zc/UAMz6fwZcXI/AAAAAAAAAYs/cbmlhE7uTqI/s1600/IMG_0424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hel0wRsE1zc/UAMz6fwZcXI/AAAAAAAAAYs/cbmlhE7uTqI/s320/IMG_0424.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Day 4...more fill-in</div>
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I'll post more as the mural progresses. Lord willing, I'll have it completed in a couple of days...then, I'll document the whole process. </div>Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-10726372631354255302012-07-06T09:53:00.001-04:002012-07-06T09:53:37.849-04:00Someone Stole My Paintings!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/images/paintings/sower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://www.jeremysams.com/images/paintings/sower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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"Behold A Sower Went Forth To Sow"</div>
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12x24 acrylic on canvas...Stolen!</div>
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<a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/images/bluegrass_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://www.jeremysams.com/images/bluegrass_web.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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"Bluegrass on the River"</div>
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20x24 acrylic on canvas...Stolen!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B1gPOUiOIS0/TaWqrbq_g2I/AAAAAAAAAIw/KdlMIw5dya4/s1600/oakthorns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B1gPOUiOIS0/TaWqrbq_g2I/AAAAAAAAAIw/KdlMIw5dya4/s320/oakthorns.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Psalm 29:11</div>
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9x12 acrylic on masonite...Stolen!</div>
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This is the 2nd time that I've ever had a painting stolen...interestingly enough, the first time was at a nursing home. I guess some little old lady just couldn't pass up that farm scene...reminded her of home, maybe. This time, however, someone stole not just one, but three! I have to admit, there's mixed emotions with this. I'm somewhat honored that someone liked my work, but for crying out loud...did they really like them so much that they're willing to risk the penalty of the law???</div>
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Every time we take something that does not belong to us, our conscience bears witness that we have stolen. Stealing is breaking the 8th commandment...that righteous standard that God has proclaimed to show that every man comes very short. That law, which is engraved on every man's conscience, screams out every time we steal that we are breaking God's law and therefore we are thieves. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Paul declares to not be deceived...the thief will not inherit the kingdom of God,<br />
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"Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God?
Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor
effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God"
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The fact is, we can not live up to God's righteous standard...and there is a penalty for this. However, the good news is that a Substitute has been provided. The just penalty and wrath that we deserve, God has placed on His Son, Jesus Christ. He willingly died on the cross to settle God's wrath for <i>everyone who will believe in Him</i>. Three days later, He rose from the dead and now offers us everlasting life and the power to live in Christ's righteousness. Without this "only Savior of the world", we would all perish. This "belief" is not merely an intellectual knowledge, but a full trusting in the promises of Christ...What does it look like? It is a repentant faith that is daily turning from sin and turning to God. It is treasuring Him above all things. <br />
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I, like everyone else, hate being stolen from...especially when it's something that I've invested countless hours in. But, I have to trust God that He has a plan in this and that He will be glorified. I pray that this person or persons will come to the knowledge of Christ and His ultimate work on the cross and find forgiveness...and therefore, return my paintings :)</div>
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These paintings were stolen from <a href="http://www.facebook.com/PinesNeedlesArtStudio">Pines and Needles Art Studio</a> in Fancy Gap, Va. If you ever see these paintings or have any info., please <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/contact.html">contact me</a>.</div>
<br />Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-5532882227811689492012-06-05T11:38:00.000-04:002012-06-05T12:00:27.211-04:00Kayaking and Plein Air...Blessing Defined<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HuzP6_hXwKk/T84ZPhqViAI/AAAAAAAAAWo/_Hhuy1ZwMpw/s1600/IMG_0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HuzP6_hXwKk/T84ZPhqViAI/AAAAAAAAAWo/_Hhuy1ZwMpw/s320/IMG_0029.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Kayaking, plein air painting, and a little daddy-daughter time...does it get any better than this? You know you're a recipient of God's grace and blessing when you can enjoy all these different passions all at the same time. </div>
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We often use the phrase "we're blessed". But what does it mean to be blessed and how do you measure it? Do we measure and define it by the annual income that you report to the IRS every year? By the popularity that a name may offer? By the awards or degrees that hang on your wall? These are all nice things to have I suppose. However, these things are temporary. They have no eternal value. Being blessed is not measured in the temporal materialism or fleeting emotions<i>... </i>being blessed is measured in our completeness in God...finding our all satisfaction in Him. </div>
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To say that blessed simply means "happy" is to come short of a full biblical definition of that often used term "blessed". We usually think of happiness as that fleeting emotion that is dependent upon outside circumstances. When you itch all night due to the numerous chigger and mosquito bites from playing in the woods...your happiness will probably go south like mine did. Or, when your name gets called because you won some grand prize, your happiness will pick right back up. This is usually the typical definition of this roller-coaster ride that we call happiness. Blessedness is not that way.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9LwHKykzX-M/T84sEA-Lo8I/AAAAAAAAAXc/8ZAm9x9gQ6M/s1600/IMG_0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9LwHKykzX-M/T84sEA-Lo8I/AAAAAAAAAXc/8ZAm9x9gQ6M/s320/IMG_0028.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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It's hard to be "happy" when you have to lug a kayak and painting gear through the woods while the mosquitos feast on your tender skin.</div>
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Blessedness does not depend on outer circumstances but depends on an inner satisfaction that only God can produce in you. When you read Matthew 5 and the infamous "beatitudes" of which Jesus spoke, you must understand that these character traits do not produce this blessedness...but this blessedness produces the character traits.</div>
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So, the question is, are you blessed? Has God performed a work in your heart so that that you produce the fruit of a satisfied, complete, blessed life which results not just in happiness, but true deep-rooted joy? Does your <i>conduct</i> prove your <i>character</i>? </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1WDQpF_nOo/T84lcwirIWI/AAAAAAAAAXA/dYuAdLWMNXs/s1600/IMG_0031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1WDQpF_nOo/T84lcwirIWI/AAAAAAAAAXA/dYuAdLWMNXs/s320/IMG_0031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My nephew, Aaron learning to kayak.</div>
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Poppie assisting Ashleigh while Ellie and Aaron unpatiently wait their turn.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-viTvPkn1Sfg/T84m__wKyVI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/G7IvboSaduw/s1600/riverbend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-viTvPkn1Sfg/T84m__wKyVI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/G7IvboSaduw/s320/riverbend.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>"Riverbend"</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">8x10 acrylic on masonite painted en plein air</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here's the plein air painting that I painted that day located on the Uwharrie River in Randolph County, NC</span> </span>.</div>
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<br /></div>Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-85421730951490748562012-05-07T16:35:00.000-04:002012-05-07T16:35:18.956-04:00Kinston Plein Air Competition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oih0Dmkmuz8/T6glTC63uNI/AAAAAAAAAVw/CZYj5vtU45c/s1600/school+teacher%27s+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oih0Dmkmuz8/T6glTC63uNI/AAAAAAAAAVw/CZYj5vtU45c/s320/school+teacher%27s+garden.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>School Teacher's Garden</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">8x10 acrylic on masonite</span></div>
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What a great week to paint en plein air. The weather was beautiful. The skies were clear, the leaves were green, the flowers blooming and producing a sweet aroma. The temperature, however, was a little warmer than what I'm used to in early in May... The highs were in the mid 90's! So, shade was a must!<br />
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The event began Wednesday morning and ended Friday evening at 5pm. I think there were 20 or so artists in attendance which is a great number. The talent was very high at this paintout according to several who had attended before...and it showed. At the judging, which took place Friday evening, the talent was made apparent as everyone paraded their masterpieces into the gallery.<br />
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I met many wonderful artists. All were braving the heat...some in the shade, sitting, while others in full sun sweating it out. I hope they loaded up on sun-screen! I tried my best to stay in the shade as much as possible, sometimes having to break out my "shade-buddy" plein air umbrella to keep my painting and palette out of direct sun. Shade paintings turn out much nicer for me than sun-paintings...if I paint in full sun, the painting will be much darker in value and look horrible when hung in a gallery setting. So, I prefer painting in the shade when possible.<br />
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I was blessed to have received 1st place for the above painting entitled "School Teacher's Garden" which is located beside an old schoolhouse behind Harmony Hall. This location was perfect for plein air painting. I was shaded by a nice overhanging tree, and the light was just right. I was drawn to this scene by the reflected light in the shadows of the white schoolhouse and picket fence. It's amazing how green shadows on white surfaces become when reflecting the grass and shrubbery... an average camera won't detect these subtle temperature changes in color. Even the judge, artist <a href="http://mikerooneystudios.com/">Mike Rooney</a>, claimed to have gotten cold chills when he saw the painting. How cool of a critique is that!<br />
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Below are some other paintings that I painted during the competition.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--FpQWeEgmEc/T6gr7GIRc7I/AAAAAAAAAV8/cwAoWdUy0aI/s1600/neuseway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--FpQWeEgmEc/T6gr7GIRc7I/AAAAAAAAAV8/cwAoWdUy0aI/s320/neuseway.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Neuseway</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">8x10 acrylic on masonite</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4tuGnuJao-4/T6gtUb_Rv-I/AAAAAAAAAWE/WbW4aTe1OaE/s1600/neuse+sand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4tuGnuJao-4/T6gtUb_Rv-I/AAAAAAAAAWE/WbW4aTe1OaE/s320/neuse+sand.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Neuse Sand</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">8x10 acrylic on masonite </span></div>
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This was an interesting piece...I was painting under the bridge of Hwy 11, when this huge water snake which was about 4.5 ft. long comes sliding out of the water right in front of me. He layed there for about 5 minutes just checking me out. So, I stood there for about 5 minutes just checking him out. Finally, he moved on his way to some nearby grass. Later that evening, a fisherman informed me that he was ran out of that same spot by 4 or 5 different snakes... not a comforting thought understanding that this area is well know for rattlesnakes and water moccasins.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AyHU_iNrRDI/T6gvD0xE5rI/AAAAAAAAAWM/8HV8f19l9EA/s1600/roots+on+the+neuse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AyHU_iNrRDI/T6gvD0xE5rI/AAAAAAAAAWM/8HV8f19l9EA/s320/roots+on+the+neuse.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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<i>Roots on the Neuse</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">12x9 acrylic on masonite</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><i> Queen and North</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">12x9 acrylic on masonite</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XnBwLxFfSgQ/T6gv_BXiVyI/AAAAAAAAAWc/dJAg5ctcgQM/s1600/city+lights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XnBwLxFfSgQ/T6gv_BXiVyI/AAAAAAAAAWc/dJAg5ctcgQM/s320/city+lights.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><i> City Lights</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">12x9 acrylic on masonite</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Mike Rooney offered some good advice for this painting. He loved it, and so did I...except for the cars. I should've kept the edges much softer and took a little more time with them. I painted them the day after I actually painted the scene</span>...20 minutes before "turn-in" time. And, it shows...so, if I get this painting back, rest assured the cars will be repainted!</div>
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Special thanks to the Varner family for their always generous hospitality! I can't wait to visit Kinston and all the good people there next year!</div>Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-49896699378290736632012-04-04T10:34:00.001-04:002012-04-04T10:36:13.984-04:00Mooresville Artist Guild Plein Air Paintout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uc3yXEKROwk/T3xPBIzqftI/AAAAAAAAAUw/-y_oLb0Qn1Q/s1600/liberty+park+falls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uc3yXEKROwk/T3xPBIzqftI/AAAAAAAAAUw/-y_oLb0Qn1Q/s320/liberty+park+falls.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Liberty Park Falls</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">10x8 acrylic on masonite</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The good people at the Mooresville Art Guild hosted a plein air painting competition on March 31. What a beautiful little town! The historic downtown area was packed full of great places to paint. If you enjoy urban scenes, you'd be in a painter's paradise. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The morning started out drenched in rain. I think everyone who came out was a little hesitant to see if anyone else would brave the weather. Luckily, there were plenty of artists who didn't mind a little moisture in the air...especially when you've came equipped with your painting umbrella (a must-have for this time of year). Toward the middle of the day, the sun broke through and all these nice highlights popped out. What a beautiful day it turned out to be!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I was privileged to paint along side of fellow artists, Craig Franz and Scott Boyle. We chose Liberty Park to set up our gear and begin our painting process. It's always good to paint with other artists when possible. They tend to give fresh perspectives and constructive critiques in each other's paintings. Sometimes we get bogged down on particular parts of our paintings and we neglect other problem areas. Another artist's eye can help you spot these. It's also good to hear their tips and to bounce techniques off each other...iron sharpens iron.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PV-_2uFonwU/T3xWQ1ZW5rI/AAAAAAAAAU4/B8gY4DVPywM/s1600/craig+franz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PV-_2uFonwU/T3xWQ1ZW5rI/AAAAAAAAAU4/B8gY4DVPywM/s320/craig+franz.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Craig Franz</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gl1ZescpnYc/T3xWf60AU7I/AAAAAAAAAVY/qQG8L012Siw/s1600/scott+boyle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gl1ZescpnYc/T3xWf60AU7I/AAAAAAAAAVY/qQG8L012Siw/s320/scott+boyle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Scott Boyle </div><div style="text-align: center;">(check out the ez-up canopy he's painting under...now that's being prepared!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rF5b6IIHnDE/T3xWXVHltVI/AAAAAAAAAVA/QwmzcGRI1wU/s1600/paintout5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rF5b6IIHnDE/T3xWXVHltVI/AAAAAAAAAVA/QwmzcGRI1wU/s320/paintout5.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanks Shade-buddy for keeping me dry!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As for my painting of the day, I was honored to have received an honorable mention in the show. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b4KJqi03gFw/T3xWaP36tHI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/NFUFMtViFRk/s1600/paintout7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b4KJqi03gFw/T3xWaP36tHI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/NFUFMtViFRk/s320/paintout7.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> Does adidas sponsor painters? Hmmm...I doubt it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wj6xCBsy6fo/T3xWpWnZX5I/AAAAAAAAAVg/3OMtlmQPJ4A/s1600/Enjoying+Pasta+Dinner+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wj6xCBsy6fo/T3xWpWnZX5I/AAAAAAAAAVg/3OMtlmQPJ4A/s320/Enjoying+Pasta+Dinner+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">What could be better than salad, meatballs and pasta in the company of talented friends? Thanks Cheri for the great meal!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">This particular show will be on display until the end of April. So, if you're in the area, come out and see the beautiful work. Visit <a href="http://www.magart.org/">Mooresville Artist Guild</a> for more info and to see the other great paintings. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">My painting, Liberty Park Falls is for sale through the gallery for $320. If you're interested, feel free to <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/contact.html">contact me</a> or contact the <a href="http://www.magart.org/index.php?option=com_contact&view=category&catid=12&Itemid=84">Mooresville Artist Guild</a>.</div>Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-30004437990771348542012-02-24T09:11:00.000-05:002012-02-24T09:11:15.274-05:00Acrylic Landscape Demonstration with Video<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cCXKbeyJ34k/T0cFBZURfbI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/7u-5YEL9-EE/s1600/barndemo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cCXKbeyJ34k/T0cFBZURfbI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/7u-5YEL9-EE/s320/barndemo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Red Barn in the Morning</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">18x24 acrylic on canvas</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The painting above is the final product of an acrylic landscape demonstration that I gave Feb. 17th. at the Waterworks Visual Arts Center, in Salisbury, NC.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The picture below shows the painting at the end of the 1.5 hr. painting demo.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OaRueY30MYI/T0cGM3UXMYI/AAAAAAAAAUY/FulY8JrwhhA/s1600/DSC01933-393x293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OaRueY30MYI/T0cGM3UXMYI/AAAAAAAAAUY/FulY8JrwhhA/s320/DSC01933-393x293.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">When I got back home, I made quite a few changes to the final painting. Here's a list of corrections I made:</div><ul><li>reworked the sky to be more of a warmer <i>morning</i> feel rather than the overcast look (the pics here may not show the truest color of the actual painting). </li>
<li>broke up the tree formation on the mountain tops to get rid of "the big bird" look.</li>
<li>minimized the window on the barn</li>
<li>added some rust on the roof</li>
<li>adjusted the background trees going into the valley</li>
<li>detailed the foreground grass with more variety of mass, textures, values, and temperature changes (cool shadows, warm midtones and high-lights)</li>
<li>added a farmer walking toward the barn, to help give it some life.</li>
</ul>It always helps to get away from your painting for a while so that when you return to it, you'll have a fresh perspective and will be able to see what needs to be changed or added.<br />
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Here's a video that fellow acrylic artist, Rex White made for me during the demonstration:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/r2-JfnXXxWk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jx5Sr248fUA/T0cJ4cAFnLI/AAAAAAAAAUg/lHXbx6A2ia4/s1600/DSC01925-460x221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jx5Sr248fUA/T0cJ4cAFnLI/AAAAAAAAAUg/lHXbx6A2ia4/s320/DSC01925-460x221.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yyVZ8IcKXZA/T0cJ5dOjVqI/AAAAAAAAAUo/pZhen0JsbE0/s1600/DSC01930-319x310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yyVZ8IcKXZA/T0cJ5dOjVqI/AAAAAAAAAUo/pZhen0JsbE0/s1600/DSC01930-319x310.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Thanks to<a href="http://pleinaircarolina.com/"> Plein air Carolina</a> and <a href="http://www.waterworks.org/home.html">Waterworks Visual Arts Center</a> in Salisbury, NC for allowing me the opportunity to demonstrate. Thanks also to <a href="http://pleinaircarolina.com/RexWhite.html">Rex White</a> for taking his time and tech-saviness to make the video.<br />
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<a href="http://jeremysams.com/contact.html">Contact me</a> if you're interested in purchasing the painting.Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-14361513246885348012012-02-14T13:30:00.002-05:002012-02-14T13:38:54.586-05:00Painting A Self Portrait<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iKG1t6IVY8g/TzqH3RdcYBI/AAAAAAAAAUI/fbFx5wBNL9s/s1600/self+portrait.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iKG1t6IVY8g/TzqH3RdcYBI/AAAAAAAAAUI/fbFx5wBNL9s/s320/self+portrait.jpg" width="250" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Self Portrait</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">11x14 acrylic on canvas</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Painting a self portrait doesn't mean you're egotistical. Trust me, there's nothing more humbling than staring at your flaws in the mirror and trying to be honest enough to capture them...as long as it's <i>capturing</i> them and not caricaturizing them. Believe me, that's a struggle in itself!</div><div style="text-align: left;">The main purpose, for me at least, in painting a self portrait is to learn.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul><li> Learning to paint correct values in certain lights.</li>
<li> Learning proportions and relationships of facial features.</li>
<li> Learning to simplify the scene according to shapes and not get distracted by the details.</li>
<li> Learning to compare adjacent values ( lighter or darker) and color temperature (warmer or cooler)</li>
<li> Learning to draw negative space more accurately</li>
</ul>This painting was started by massing in a mid-tone flesh color in a large area that would later be shaped to form the face. After the mid-tone was applied, I then began mapping out the features of my face. It's good to start with an anchor point (a physical feature to work off of in determining distance between the facial features). I used the corner of my eye for this point. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">After you have determined your anchor point, began measuring what you see in the mirror the distance between each feature. Sometimes, depending on the model, you can divide the face into 3rds...from the hair line to the top of the eye brow...eye brow to the bottom of the nose...bottom of the nose to the bottom of the chin. Or, sometimes, it works out that the corner of the eye is half way between the top of the head and bottom of the chin. However, these are just guides and aren't always exact.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I always use a series of plumb lines and horizontal lines to see how the features line up to each other. This will help in placement.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">My next step would be to establish my darkest darks as an anchor value to key in the rest of the painting. If your darkest dark is too light, the overall painting will be too light. It's also a good idea to start with your sharpest edge as well...to give you an edge to compare all other edges to. For example, on the right side of my face is my sharpest edge. I can now look at the edge of anything else, whether nose, lips, etc... to see if those edges are as sharp as my first edge or are they softer. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The last thing to be painted are the highlights...just be sure not to make them bright white...otherwise your face will look oily or plastic.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The hard part of self portraits is trying not to move your head while you paint or clean your brushes. It's also a challenge to measure distances between the features while looking in a mirror...your reflection of your hand or brush will hide the feature you're trying to measure...pretty irritating...but it can be overcome if you simply paint a life size portrait, and just measure on your face rather than the mirror's image.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Some problem areas are:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul><li>making the skin too light</li>
<li>making the whites too white</li>
<li>not using cool or warm shadows accurately</li>
<li>making the lips too red</li>
<li>making the nostrils too dark</li>
<li>making the edges too hard </li>
</ul></div><div style="text-align: left;">All in all, it's great practice and you'll learn so much in the process. The main point to learn is to compare, compare, compare.<br />
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Did I capture a likeness? I think it resembles me...but there are some areas I can already see that need work...so don't judge me too harshly. The major problem with this painting is the subject matter :)<br />
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By the way, I'm not mad...just concentrating. </div>Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-68033208650610240242012-02-10T20:18:00.001-05:002012-02-10T20:20:15.770-05:00Thanks Dr. John Piper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTNZEqbLV0s/TzW0RhgLFLI/AAAAAAAAAT4/yJB3HBUCs5M/s1600/Dr.+John+Piper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTNZEqbLV0s/TzW0RhgLFLI/AAAAAAAAAT4/yJB3HBUCs5M/s320/Dr.+John+Piper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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How cool is this...a picture of Dr. John Piper of <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/">Desiring God</a> Ministries holding a print of my painting, "For the Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. (Luke 19:10)". Dr. Piper and his ministry have been such an encouragement to my family and I, especially over the past year.<br />
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After losing my son, Zion in March 2011, I contacted Desiring God to inquire about a book on God's sovereignty and the issue of suffering. I spoke to a young man on the phone, and for the life of me, I can't recall his name. This young man was so kind in offering a listening ear to my situation. He then took the time to pray with me over the phone...a prayer that you could tell was sincere and heartfelt. He also informed me about the book I was calling about..."<a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/store/books/by-topic/suffering">Suffering and the Sovereignty of God</a>" edited by John Piper and Justin Taylor (contains writings on God's sovereignty and our suffering by people like Joni Eareckson Tada, Stephen Saint, Mark Talbot, and others). I highly recommend this book to anyone who is experiencing trials or any kind of suffering. It really helps you view these events through the eyes of God and not through the eyes of humanistic philosophies (which most merely portray God as a weak, impotent god who knows about your suffering but is too helpless to prevent it). I asked the young man how much the book would cost and he completely surprised me by saying, "I'm going to send it to you free of charge."<br />
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Now, how many ministries out there would do that for some stranger who just randomly calls them up? Probably, not many. However, anyone who's familiar with Desiring God knows that they're not money motivated...they have a passion for treasuring Christ and helping others, even if it means they get nothing in return.<br />
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The print was just a token of our appreciation to Dr. Piper and Desiring God for their commitment to the supremacy of Christ and making Him known to the world. I once heard one of Dr. Piper's messages where he speaks of getting a "footnote" in one of, athiest and philosopher, Ayn Rand's biographies...all because he sent her a letter of critique and gave her the gospel...who knows, maybe one day, I'll get a footnote in one of Piper's books :)<br />
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Thanks Dr. Piper!Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-9271971904214675332012-01-31T19:31:00.001-05:002012-01-31T20:18:04.572-05:00Loving People Who Don't Love You Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z59LW35CLR4/TyiHiZmXNeI/AAAAAAAAATo/FGnpqLuBa04/s1600/climbing_the_social_ladder_by_hazzy87.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z59LW35CLR4/TyiHiZmXNeI/AAAAAAAAATo/FGnpqLuBa04/s1600/climbing_the_social_ladder_by_hazzy87.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Difficult situations are sometimes put into our lives to help us climb the spiritual ladders toward being conformed to Christ's image. The bad thing is these are never easy climbs...hence the "difficult" part.<br />
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Ironically, I'm studying John 13:31-35 for this week's lesson in Sunday school, specifically John 13:34. And, honestly, it's kicking my rear end.<br />
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Love...sounds easy doesn't it?...especially at this time of year. But, it's certainly not that simple. When Jesus says, "Love one<i> another...</i>", it definitely gets complicated. It's easy for me to love myself...it's easy for me to love those who treat me the way I want to be treated. But, to love <i>one another...</i> even when they're unlovable, or for them to love<i> me</i> when I'm unlovable...this command takes something supernatural in order to fulfill it<br />
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The scenario goes something like this: 2 parties...both were offended. One party admits their wrong, apologizes, and seeks forgiveness. The other party accepts their apology but fails to recognize their own guilt in the matter. So, what is the first party to do?<br />
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This is a tough situation and it's compounded when it's someone close to you such as friends or family.<br />
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So, we have to ask, "What is the Christian thing to do?" I hear the old cliche "what would Jesus do?" ringing in my ears.<br />
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Let's look at John 13 for some answers. John 13:34 says:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; <b>as I have loved you</b>, that ye also love one another." </blockquote> Notice the bold part...when we examine its immediate context, we see that He gave us an example in the beginning of the chapter...the washing of the disciples' feet, John 13:1-20. Jesus, Lord and Master, humbles Himself to the place of a slave by performing a "low status" task. If anyone shouldv'e had their feet washed, we, of course know, Jesus would've been the One qualified. Yet, He is the very one who removes His outer garments, and lowers Himself to wash those who were, in every way, beneath Him.<br />
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Our reaction is usually one of, "Ohhhh...look at the humble Jesus. Isn't He amazing!" But, the real kicker here is that He expects the same <i>from us</i>. If that's not a high expectation, it only gets worse...Guess who was in the midst of these disciples and got his feet washed? Judas Iscariot. Yikes...now it does get sticky.<br />
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Can you imagine washing the feet of one you knew would betray you to die? Man, that is hardcore. That is hardcore humility. That is hardcore <i>love</i>. My flesh detests this teaching. My carnal nature wants to spit some beechnut in Judas' eye, like Hank Williams Jr. in the Country Boy can Survive song. But, Jesus, in His perfect love, loved those who were unlovable and loved and served those who He knew would never return the favor...in fact, He loved and ministered to those who boldly hated Him.<br />
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Notice John 13:17, <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"> "If ye know these things, happy are ye<b> if ye do</b> them." </blockquote>This verse tells us that our blessedness...our most complete joy...stems not from the knowledge of this humiliating service...but from <i>doing</i> it. <br />
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Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:43-48,<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">"Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. <b>For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye?</b> do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more [than others]? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." </blockquote> Again, it's easy to love those who reciprocate the love...but anyone can do this...even the publicans. But, the greater reward is found in loving those and doing for those who you know will never pay you back.<br />
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Easy preaching, but hard living. I know...I've been there and still go there. I've had a person in my past who I loved dearly, hurt me badly. Being falsely accused of plagiarism, not only to yourself, but to your peers as well is a hurtful thing for me. The person who did this probably has no idea of the pain it's caused me. I have forgiven this person and there is no bitterness between either of us...however, I never received an apology, and probably never will...in this person's eyes, I'm sure they truly believe they were right. So, I often have to practice Jesus' words to forgive 7 times 70...every time the root of bitterness starts to spring up, I have to deal with it. Forgiving others is not for their benefit, but for <i>ours</i>.<br />
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I'm learning that this love that Christ commands us to do is supernatural and certainly doesn't stem from ourselves. This fruit of the Spirit comes from us abiding in the Vine...abiding in Christ, and Him in us..."for without me ye can do nothing" John 15:5. <br />
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Being conformed to Christ's image is not an easy task...and it surely isn't always fun. But, it certainly will be rewarding. May God give us grace in loving and serving others even when we know it won't be reciprocated.<br />
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.Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-48237529590935943752012-01-31T08:36:00.000-05:002012-01-31T08:36:23.369-05:00Strawberries in Still Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dlz4qLv_948/TyfmV9SBXhI/AAAAAAAAATg/wZkmXPBGNgg/s1600/strawberries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dlz4qLv_948/TyfmV9SBXhI/AAAAAAAAATg/wZkmXPBGNgg/s320/strawberries.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Stawberries</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">11x14 acrylic on canvas</span></div><br />
Here's another still life I painted for the upcoming "Red Show" to be held at Rail Walk Studios and Gallery in Salisbury, NC. I began this painting by first, arranging my items. I knew I wanted to paint these delicious strawberries...for one, they're red...two, it's almost Valentine's Day, and I always think of my wife's chocolate covered strawberries that she makes. Plus, I get to eat them when I'm done painting. Ellie, my 4 year old daughter thought that eating them after the painting was done was just too long to wait...so, after my numerous warnings not to touch the objects, and while I wasn't looking, she swiped a couple of juicy strawberries. Needless to say, I just about turned into Mr. Hyde.<br />
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I also needed another element in the still life so, I found this little cup and saucer in the china cabinet. It would make a nice contrast with my dark fabric I had draped.<br />
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The painting began with a painted sketch of the scene using cadmium red medium...just to lay out the composition and key in the values...the darkest areas will be straight red from the tube, and the lightest areas were a red wash...just to get rid of the white canvas.<br />
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Then, it was just a matter of painting my darkest darks first, working my way to the light colors and highlights last. Within a few hours, it's done!<br />
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The art displayed in the show will be used to raise funds for the American Red Cross. The show will start Feb.2 and run until March 31.<br />
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For more information on the Red Show, contact Rail Walk Studios at <a href="mailto:info@railwalkgallery.com">info@railwalkgallery.com</a> .Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-79745987574653340312012-01-30T10:14:00.000-05:002012-01-30T10:14:54.485-05:00The Gospel In Noah's Ark<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E9kNAaipm78/TyadJwIsMmI/AAAAAAAAARo/B8umG6mokFo/s1600/ark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E9kNAaipm78/TyadJwIsMmI/AAAAAAAAARo/B8umG6mokFo/s320/ark.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Noah's Ark</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">16x20 acrylic on canvas, painted at Carolina Memorial Baptist Church, Thomasville, NC</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Is Noah's ark a myth, a fairy tale, or is it a factual account recorded in the bible? Our children are being bombarded with the notion that the earth is millions of years old and the geologic structure of the earth is the result of millions of years worth of erosion. However, the bible states the contrary. So, which set of lenses will we look at the evidence with...will we examine the evidence with a secular worldview or with a biblical worldview?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8eOg6tGN3I/Tyae4mzxR2I/AAAAAAAAARw/58nLpxUOH4Q/s1600/grand_canyon32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8eOg6tGN3I/Tyae4mzxR2I/AAAAAAAAARw/58nLpxUOH4Q/s320/grand_canyon32.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The picture above is a view of the Grand Canyon located in Arizona. Notice the winding Colorado River at the bottom. According to secular evolutionists, this river, given millions of years, is the cause of the Grand Canyon. They propose that a <i>little water</i> with long periods of time can carve this massive canyon. However, the picture below will testify that canyons can be formed over very short periods of time with <br />
<i>lots of water</i>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b8vYBrydfzk/TyagQOv-d2I/AAAAAAAAAR4/M05qV8ZtEYQ/s1600/creation-little_grand_canyon-mt._st.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b8vYBrydfzk/TyagQOv-d2I/AAAAAAAAAR4/M05qV8ZtEYQ/s320/creation-little_grand_canyon-mt._st.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This is a picture of a place called the Little Grand Canyon, located near Mt. Saint Helens in the state of Washington. Notice also the little river running through the bottom. Most secularists would automatically assume that this little river is the cause of this 100, or so, feet deep canyon. Notice also the rock layers...surely this is the result of long periods of time, right? Actually this canyon was formed in <i>one day</i>...May 18, 1980. The canyon is the result of a mud flow after the eruption of Mt. St. Helens. Interestingly, there is a 25 ft. rock layer consisting of hundreds of smaller layers which was not formed in millions of years, but in a single day...possibly a few hours. This event has caused even many secular scientists and geologists to reevaluate their theories on the formation of the Grand Canyon.<br />
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So, with this little God given illustration, we can see the devastating effects that a lot of water can have on the structure of the earth...which brings us back to Noah.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Get in the boat boys, the crick's a swellin!</b></span><br />
Due to man's wickedness and corruption of the earth, God warned Noah of a coming judgment. He instructed Noah on how to escape His wrath...build a boat.<br />
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One reason why so many children, even adults, find the concept of all these animals, along with Noah and 7 of his family members, being able to fit on the ark is due to the misconceptions we have of the ark. Most art or representations of the ark look like this: <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQRFtsGo9G2kjrDyxtnyVmrd4_31x4zlMd8V0qKa9m30hHSgs9r0VQUnvvI" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQRFtsGo9G2kjrDyxtnyVmrd4_31x4zlMd8V0qKa9m30hHSgs9r0VQUnvvI" /></a></div>Wow...no wonder people have a hard time believing.<br />
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If we go by the bible's description and use a little common sense, we can see that Noah's ark is very believable.<br />
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The ark's dimensions are 300 cubits long (approx. 450'), 50 cubits wide (75') and 30 cubits tall (45'), Genesis 6:15. It was to be 3 stories tall and have a window finished above the ark, 1 cubit (it doesn't give the length of the window, so we can assume it ran the length of the ark's top...like a modern day ridge vent). The space of the ark is big enough to hold 522 railroad boxcars.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What about all the animals?</b></span><br />
Another misconception is that Noah would've had to take thousands and thousands of large animals. 2 German shepherds, 2 chiwawas, 2 golden retrievers, etc... This is not the case, though. He took 2 of every <i>kind, </i>7 of the clean animal<i> kinds.</i> He only had to take 2 of a generic canine kind...probably something like a wolf. We get all of our different types of dogs from inbreeding and selective breeding.<br />
Something else to consider, seeing that Noah was 600 years old (I imagine he was a pretty smart guy), he most likely didn't take full grown adult animals. He probably took young animals...old enough to keep themselves, but small enough not to take up much room. And, since young animals sleep a lot, especially when in a confined space, they probably weren't much to keep up. Given this, the average size animal is the size of a sheep. You can fit 240 sheep on one railroad boxcar, which means you could fit 50,000 animals on 209 boxcars...which is not even half of the ark.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What does the flood teach us, today?</b></span><br />
First, it teaches us that God is good and He's a God of justice. Because God is good, He must punish sin. For instance, if someone hurt your family member, and you took the criminal to court...if the judge let them go free, he would not be a good judge. A good judge upholds justice.<br />
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This was the case in the flood. Mankind had corrupted his ways on the earth. So God had to punish the wickedness. However, the good news is that God showed a man named Noah, <i>grace</i>. He gave Noah some undeserved favor by showing him a way of escape...through the ark.<br />
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In the same way, Jesus Christ has provided a way of escape from God's wrath. There is a coming judgment day, but all who are <i>in Christ</i> will be spared. To be in Christ is to fully trust Him...to find your all satisfaction in Him...not just believing in Him as a historical figure. Salvation is not found in any "repeated prayer" or the fact that you "asked Jesus into your heart" at whatever age, or any other religious activity you might have done. Salvation is in a Person...Jesus Christ. All who were on the ark were saved, as all who are IN CHRIST will also be saved. Find your refuge IN HIM.<br />
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We'd like to give a special thanks to Carolina Memorial Baptist Church in Thomasville, NC for allowing us the opportunity to minister. The painting at the top is my 15-20 minute rendition of Noah's ark that I completed while the children sang. Below is another painting of Noah's ark I completed several years ago...prints are available, just visit my website: <a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/christian%20art.html">www.jeremysams.com </a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.jeremysams.com/images/but%20noah%20found%20grace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://www.jeremysams.com/images/but%20noah%20found%20grace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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For more info on Noah's ark, visit <a href="http://www.answersingenesis.org/">Answers in Genesis</a>.Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-72249127294792747472012-01-26T09:36:00.000-05:002012-01-26T09:36:15.226-05:00Oranges In Still Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-djbXwF-oFIU/TyFfo8QxXVI/AAAAAAAAARg/nUPuDh64K3o/s1600/oranges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-djbXwF-oFIU/TyFfo8QxXVI/AAAAAAAAARg/nUPuDh64K3o/s320/oranges.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Oranges</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">11x14 acrylic on canvas</span></div><br />
I think this was the first time I had ever seen an orange with the leaves still attached. Can you tell I don't get to the tropical states much? All the oranges I ever see come packaged in a red mesh bag. But when Crystal brought this little beauty home, I knew I had to paint it. Besides, that's why she bought it...just for me to paint. What a great wife! The unique wine bottle is from Zimmerman Vineyards. They were kind enough to give me several of their empty bottles just for still life paintings. I decided on this particular bottle due to it's unique shape and its brilliant blue color, which I thought would be a nice contrast with the oranges.<br />
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I haven't painted a still life for some time now but, when I first started painting, as a teen, I would set up a small scene of fruit, pottery, or whatever else I could find of some interest. It was great practice, learning to paint what was right in front of you. I began learning a lot of foundational principles back then such as: composition, values, form, etc... It's also a great way to hone your drawing skills, which, I believe, is the foundation of any good painting. You really can't beat painting from life.Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-26177034123392421672012-01-24T22:51:00.001-05:002012-01-25T13:10:37.577-05:00Mixing Your Greens...For Desert!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Upj1ivry8Mo/Tx90I-nAyDI/AAAAAAAAARY/pfTnxWukYMs/s1600/100_2105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Upj1ivry8Mo/Tx90I-nAyDI/AAAAAAAAARY/pfTnxWukYMs/s320/100_2105.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Most people already know yellow and blue make green. But how does it taste? The only acrylic paint I ever tasted was by accident, and it wasn't an experience I'd like to repeat. However, I have concocted some greens that are absolutely delicious!...and I've been repeating the experience for several days now. <br />
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By adding more blue, you can make a <i>cooler</i> green. If you're looking for a warmer, more earthy green, try adding more yellow and just a touch of red...these are the greens you're most likely to see in the more natural colored sunny landscapes. But before you start licking your palette, let me inform you that the drinkable greens I'm referring to are not acrylic paints.<br />
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The greens we've been drinking in the Sams' household as of late consist of apples, oranges, carrots and spinach. Spinach??? Yes! and it's delicious! Tonight's juice mix contained 2 apples, 1 orange, 2 carrots, and 3 large handfuls of spinach...all total about the size of one monstrous salad. The cost for a full 12 or so oz. cup of this delicious green brew was approximately $1.40. However, I think we can go cheaper if we buy our fruits and veggies in bulk.<br />
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My wife, Crystal, and I decided to start our new year off trying to eat healthier. We watched a couple of really good documentaries to get us motivated, and I highly recommend them. They are "<a href="http://www.forksoverknives.com/">Forks Over Knives</a>" and "<a href="http://www.fatsickandnearlydead.com/">Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead</a>". <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/O7ijukNzlUg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Forks Over Knives</i> (trailer)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://1.gvt0.com/vi/Gv3vEXy_EwU/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Gv3vEXy_EwU&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Gv3vEXy_EwU&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead</i> (extended trailer)</div>Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-34111176592639753372012-01-06T10:07:00.000-05:002012-01-06T10:07:38.345-05:00Randolph Art Guild Drawing Sessions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YPdDIy0l8ZQ/TwcJvT6lokI/AAAAAAAAARA/NwBDC-WMs2E/s1600/joe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YPdDIy0l8ZQ/TwcJvT6lokI/AAAAAAAAARA/NwBDC-WMs2E/s320/joe.jpg" width="252" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Joe</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">11x14 acrylic on canvas</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Every first and third Thursday of the month, the Randolph Arts Guild hosts a drawing session. The cost is $10 per session, or you can pay $30 for 6 sessions and runs from 6-8pm. The Guild will hire models to model for the class or they'll set up a still life or, if weather is permitting, go outside for some plein air sketching/painting.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The sessions usually start off with some 1 minute quick sketching...these exercises are basically just to capture the gesture and for warm up. With only one minute, details are just not an option. After the 1 minute sketches, you might move up to a 2-5 minute pose.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The painting above is of our model for the night, Joe. It's a 20 minute quick-sketch...or quick-paint in this case.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v-5B37YtRp4/TwcLV7Dit1I/AAAAAAAAARI/CrGifFEMiH0/s1600/joesketch1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v-5B37YtRp4/TwcLV7Dit1I/AAAAAAAAARI/CrGifFEMiH0/s320/joesketch1.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Another 20 minute quick sketch in charcoal with Joe wearing a toboggan. </div><div style="text-align: center;">He also brought a machete and a sombrero. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CxD-WadUPD4/TwcMnO83DyI/AAAAAAAAARQ/lAZ6DkZUmdo/s1600/joesketch2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CxD-WadUPD4/TwcMnO83DyI/AAAAAAAAARQ/lAZ6DkZUmdo/s320/joesketch2.jpg" width="243" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The last 20 minute quick sketch of the night in charcoal.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">For more information about the drawing sessions, feel free to contact the<a href="http://www.randolphartsguild.com/"> Randolph Arts Guild</a>.</div>Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-3252316930767525812012-01-05T12:04:00.001-05:002012-01-05T12:04:57.017-05:00Living In Sin...In God's Will<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5QBUyrSo33I/TwWv-xs8tQI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/jqgJtD--OIk/s1600/child-split-in-two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5QBUyrSo33I/TwWv-xs8tQI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/jqgJtD--OIk/s320/child-split-in-two.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Divorce is the social norm of today. Marriage vows are simply sweet words and a marriage license is just a piece of paper. According to a<a href="http://www.usatoday.com/news/religion/2011-03-14-divorce-christians_N.htm"> recent study</a>, the divorce rate among evangelical Christians is 42%. That's a pretty high number for those professing Jesus as Lord and Savior and claiming the authority of the Scriptures.<br />
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After becoming a Facebook user this past year, I've been appalled at some of the statuses that "Christians" put up. People claiming to be "right where God wants me", "in God's will", or "in God's plan" while living in open sin and rebellion to God is just plain disgusting. I've seen spouses who've walked out of their marriage (for un-biblical reasons) post these kinds of phrases while all their carnal friends condone and praise their rebellious situation and refusal to submit to God's Word. Sorry ladies, your husband's failure to send flowers or give you compliments is not a biblical cause for divorce...and, fellas, your wife's refusal to wear lingerie and lack of cleaning and cooking skills is not a reason either.<br />
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Sadly, unbiblical divorce is not the only issue faced in people claiming to be in God's will...you see the pics of people partying it up, then the next day claiming they're glad they're in God's will. Are you kidding me???<br />
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Now, let me remind you...I'm all about God's sovereignty. I try to live according to it and have experienced it in my life, especially this past year. But, here's where it gets tricky. If we believe in a God who is in control of all aspects of our life: birth, health, finances, weather, salvation, sanctification, death, etc... does this mean that God is in control of our sin as well? I've had several people, while contemplating God's sovereignty, ask me, "If God is sovereign and He has planned for everything that's ever going to happen...this must mean that it's ok for me to sin, because ultimately, God is the One who planned it...right?"<br />
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First of all, those who claim God's grace or His sovereignty as a license to sin have a twisted mentality and their "damnation is just" according to Romans 3:8.<br />
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Second, let's again consult the Scriptures to make sense of this dilemma by examining the prophecy of Peter's denial in Luke 22:31-32. In this passage we'll see God's sovereignty <i>over</i> our temptations:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">"And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired [to have] you, that he may sift [you] as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." </blockquote><br />
Satan is definitely at work here, but he is not sovereign in it, nor is Peter...Notice that the temptation comes from Satan, not from God, for God tempts no man to sin (James 1:13). Notice also, that Jesus, after proclaiming His intercessory prayer, says "<i>when</i> you are converted"...he doesn't say, "<i>if</i> you're converted"...No, He says "when". In essence, He's saying, "Peter, Satan wants you and you will fail miserably, but I have prayed for you and WHEN you repent and turn back, strengthen your brothers. You will fail, but I've made sure your failure will not be final."<br />
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We can also see God's sovereignty over man's sin in Acts 2:23:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">"Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:"</blockquote><br />
Notice first, that it was God's <i>determined purpose</i> and prearranged <i>plan</i> that Jesus would be crucified and murdered...in this predetermined plan was the involvement of man's sin. But notice secondly, their predetermined sinful actions were not condoned. Acts 2:36-37 shows that they were completely responsible and we see their reaction.<br />
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So, is God schizophrenic? Does He plan for us to sin then punish us for doing what He planned? How do we understand these things? Again, let's consult the Scriptures.<br />
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In Deuteronomy 29:29, we see the two wills of God. We see His will of <i>Decree</i> and His will of <i>Precept</i>.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">"The secret [things belong] unto the LORD our God: but those [things which are] revealed [belong] unto us and to our children for ever, that [we] may do all the words of this law." </blockquote> <i>"The secret things"</i> are God's will of decree. These are the things God has predetermined such as Peter's temptation and the crucifixion of Jesus...Basically, this is God's business and not meant for us to know. He is:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">"Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:" Isaiah 46:10. </blockquote>He also tells us in Daniel 4:35,<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">"And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?" </blockquote>His ways are higher than our ways for sure, and wouldn't it be sad if He left us in the dark as to what His will is? However, when we read the rest of Deut. 29:29, we see that He doesn't leave us clueless as to how we should live: "but those [things which are] revealed [belong] unto us and to our children for ever, that [we] may do all the words of this law."<br />
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What are <i>those things which are revealed</i>? These are His commandments, His Words, His <i>precepts</i>. When God says, "Thou shalt" or "Thou shall not", He is revealing His preceptive will to us. These are not suggestions, but commands. So, if we ignore what God tells us or rebel against His revealed commands, then we are NOT living according to God's will. Oh, you may be in His "plan", but you are rebelling against His revealed preceptive will.<br />
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This is a terrifying place to be..."in His plan" but rebelling against His will. Consider Pharoah in Romans 9:17-18, <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">"For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will [have mercy], and whom he will he hardeneth."</blockquote> When you read the story of Pharoah in Exodus, we see that Pharoah was definitely in God's will of decree, but he was certainly not acting according to God's preceptive will...and we see the purpose was that God's power be made manifest...even in Pharoah's destruction.<br />
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In closing, be warned if you're living against God's revealed will. He may be raising you up to crush you and magnify His glory in giving you justice. If this concerns you at all, be like Peter and <i>be converted</i> so you can show God's glory in giving you grace and mercy. If you feel that you've failed in remaining in God's preceptive will, know that your failure doesn't have to be final. Turn from your sin and find mercy in Christ. For those who love God and are the called according to His purpose, He's working <i>all</i> things for good...even your failures. But, if your mentality is to do evil that good may come, your damnation is just (Romans 3:8).Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3632834649125475087.post-73652885626389139682012-01-02T10:00:00.003-05:002012-02-29T21:22:42.639-05:00New Homemade Pochade Box<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_xLMIL924Vs/TwG2k1GRb1I/AAAAAAAAAOc/zlsF6yjBVRU/s1600/100_2064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_xLMIL924Vs/TwG2k1GRb1I/AAAAAAAAAOc/zlsF6yjBVRU/s320/100_2064.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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What's more enjoyable than plein air painting?... Of course! making your own gear for plein air painting! This is my newest home made pochade box. It measures 9.25x11.5" and the palette area is 1.5" deep. I went with a smaller box because I needed a box that catered to my smaller plein air pieces and takes up less space in a backpack. This box will hold, at the largest, an 8x10" horizontally, and probably a 9x12" vertically. The new feature is my hinged flip-out brush holder (the little rectangular piece of wood with holes on the left). Now, instead of having to insert my brush holder, while carrying it as a separate piece, I just open the box and flip it out.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OlkGOpmhrT0/TwG451mRxkI/AAAAAAAAAOo/8uGZ6ppSlQk/s1600/100_2063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OlkGOpmhrT0/TwG451mRxkI/AAAAAAAAAOo/8uGZ6ppSlQk/s320/100_2063.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Here is the hinged brush holder in its closed position. The lid of the box closes down while leaving a little space in case you want to keep your canvas panel attached to the pochade box lid. Because of the deepness of the box (1.5"), your wet paint remains untouched on the bottom.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Jhb4UA03NU/TwG68bZTtyI/AAAAAAAAAPY/qcQLGCk3tFs/s1600/100_2065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Jhb4UA03NU/TwG68bZTtyI/AAAAAAAAAPY/qcQLGCk3tFs/s320/100_2065.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
In the side view, you can see what keeps the box locked in the open painting position...just a friction lid support with a threaded knob instead of the tightening screw. You can purchase these at your local hardware store for just a few dollars. The hanger that will hold my portable brush cleaner/water is a wire hanger loop that holds the wire on the back of picture frames.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dx1ILunfpHo/TwG9Th8oRzI/AAAAAAAAAP8/xkh6Z0d5OM0/s1600/100_2067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dx1ILunfpHo/TwG9Th8oRzI/AAAAAAAAAP8/xkh6Z0d5OM0/s320/100_2067.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Here you can see my glass palette in place. I paint on glass because it's just easier to work and clean my acrylic paints. You'll notice 2 brass shelf pins inserted in 5 mil. holes that are holding the palette down. With the deepness of the tray, I can now leave my canvas panel attached to the lid, close it, and use it as its own wet panel carrier and not be worried about the glass palette hitting my wet painting. When I'm done painting, I just remove the shelf pins, then remove the glass and wash it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VCv6fRvognU/TwG-9NcWzkI/AAAAAAAAAQI/SxVGuA2-ktI/s1600/100_2066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VCv6fRvognU/TwG-9NcWzkI/AAAAAAAAAQI/SxVGuA2-ktI/s320/100_2066.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">closed and locked position...ready to stuff into a backpack.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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Several people have asked me about how I mount the box to my tripod. This is it. It's a wood insert nut (this one is brass which is a softer metal...I broke the first one attempting to screw it into the hard wood. I think I used a different metal on my last pochade box which has given me no trouble for the past year of use). You simply drill a hole smaller than the threads of the insert, and screw it into a .5" block of oak. This block measures 3.5x4". After you drill your hole and screw in your insert (making sure to screw it into the wood from the opposite side that you'll attach your tripod), attach the block on the underside of your box about 1" from the back and in the center of the box using wood glue, and some brads or screws, nailed or screwed from the inside of the box. It's very important that you get a good bond here.<br />
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To see more details on how to build a box like this, visit <a href="http://www.pochadeboxpaintings.com/2009/02/how-to-build-your-own-pochade-box.html">Jim Serrett's site</a> (this box is an alteration of Jim's unique and easy to build design) or my other blogs concerning pochade boxes: <a href="http://jeremysams.blogspot.com/2011/03/homemade-pochade-box.html">Homemade Pochade Box</a> and<a href="http://jeremysams.blogspot.com/2011/05/pochade-box-updates.html"> Pochade Box Updates</a>.<br />
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Happy building and happy painting!Jeremyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688905106379242527noreply@blogger.com3