Opening today at San Francisco’s Hashimoto Contemporary is an exciting solo exhibition of new photorealistic charcoal and graphite drawings from this talented draftsman.
 
Hashimoto Contemporary in San Francisco, California, is overjoyed to be presenting the latest drawings from the incredibly talented Joel Daniel Phillips, who has emerged over recent years as one of the most skilled draftsman in the country. The show will be his first with Hashimoto Contemporary since 2014.
 

Joel Daniel Phillips, “Billy #2,” 2015, charcoal and graphite on paper, 42 x 94 in. (c) Joel Daniel Phillips 2016

 
Since 2011, Phillips has turned his creative attention toward his very own community, often highlighting particular social issues. From June 2015 through August, Phillips was honored as the Palo Alto Art Center’s artist in residence, a distinction that required him to create a body of work aimed at the city of Palo Alto, California. Phillips decided to turn his artistic lens on the residents of the Buena Vista Mobile Home Park, which remains the last of its kind as poorer residents are increasingly displaced by the rapid growth of the middle class in the Bay Area. Embroiled in a legal battle, the park has fought to survive and has evolved into a symbol in the long-running debate over gentrification.
 

Joel Daniel Phillips, “David,” 2015, charcoal and graphite on paper, 53 1/2 x 60 in. (c) Joel Daniel Phillips 2016

 
Speaking of this newest exhibition, Phillips suggests, “This show is an attempt to play with our voyeuristic tendencies towards the indigence surrounding us, hiding in plain sight.” Continuing, the gallery writes, “Phillips’ goal is to celebrate each person he draws as the main character in their own narrative. ‘Belongings’ explores the framework of portraiture by presenting four large-scale figures paired with solitary objects. Serving as an extension of their character, these possessions occupy the same sized paper as their human counterpart. The diptychs stand at a monumental scale, speaking not only through their realistic presence, but through the negative space that surrounds them.”
 

Joel Daniel Phillips, “Renee,” 2015, charcoal and graphite on paper, 42 x 94 in. (c) Joel Daniel Phillips 2016

 
“Belongings” opens on May 5 and will hang through May 28. To learn more, visit Hashimoto Contemporary.
 
This article was featured in Fine Art Today, a weekly e-newsletter from Fine Art Connoisseur magazine. To start receiving Fine Art Today for free, click here.
 

On occasion, momentary experiences produce some of the most profound sources of creative inspiration. Such was the case for artist Sandra Filippucci when she came face-to-face with the complex and mysterious life of a warrior saint.
 
It was 27 years ago that Sandra Filippucci “met” Joan of Arc in a tiny chapel in Normandy, France, and it was that brief moment that led Filippucci to create a “3D ‘Perpetual Muse’ combined with traditional techniques,” as Evoke Contemporary reports. On view now through the end of the month, “Joan of Arc: Voices of Light” is a compelling solo exhibition of works from artist Sandra Filippucci. The exhibition, curated by Linda Durham, is named after Richard Einhorn’s masterpiece oratorio “Voices of Light,” inspired by the 1928 film “The Passion of Joan of Arc.”
 
Via the gallery release: “Who was Joan of Arc? What did she look like? Even with an impossible time machine, one would need a broad, insightful humanity—and an intuitive historical imagination—to unwrap the mystery and mysticism of this iconic heroine. Sandra Filippucci’s powerfully realized works reveal an inspired, masterful, personal interpretation of a subject she knows well and has engaged for decades.”
 
To learn more, visit Evoke Contemporary.
 
This article was featured in Fine Art Today, a weekly e-newsletter from Fine Art Connoisseur magazine. To start receiving Fine Art Today for free, click here.
 

A captivating group exhibition of four accomplished artists heads to RJD Gallery in Sag Harbor, New York, this month. Featuring multi-dimensional works, exquisite oils, and more, there will surely be something for everyone to enjoy.
 
Magnetic works from Amanda Bellino, Anthony D’Avino, Miles Jaffe, and Sarupa Sidaarth will fill the walls of RJD Gallery in New York during May. Each artist presents a unique creative vision that will offer visitors a diverse range of subjects, styles, and techniques.
 

Miles Jaffe, “Primary Colors — Triptych,” metal, polymer, pigment, 44 x 36 x 8 in. (c) RJD Gallery 2016

 
Born in Peru but educated at Parsons in New York, Amanda Bellino incorporates sand, mortar, and paint to create unique three-dimensional sculpted “paintings.” Seeking to transport viewers to a place of serenity, Bellino’s works focus on texture, animals, and Buddhas to achieve these goals. Anthony D’Avino’s paintings are very different from Bellino’s but equally compelling. Focusing on “the golden age of toys” and the artist’s own collection of antiques, D’Avino’s current body of work showcased in the exhibition features playful subjects that celebrate Americana, rendered with skillful verisimilitude.
 

Anthony D’Avino, “Glitter Gulch,” oil on canvas, 44 x 66 in. (c) RJD Gallery 2016

 
Bordering on the photographic are the works of Miles Jaffe. The exhibition will feature Jaffe’s recent “Artists’ Color” series, which displays paint tubes meant to explore the relationship between pop culture, the artist, and his medium. Rounding out the exhibition are Sarupa Sidaarth’s hypnotic artworks. The gallery suggests, “through her artistic process, using acrylic and metallic circular elements, she creates an imaginative response to conflict by transforming images that reference social issues into moments of transcendence on the canvas. In pursuit of a language that is less borrowed, she experiments with techniques of painting on compositions that hover between abstraction and representation.”
 

Sarupa Sidaarth, “I,” acrylic on canvas, 20 x 20 in. (c) RJD Gallery 2016

 
“The ART of Discovery” opens on Saturday May 14 and will be on display until June 12. To learn more, visit RJD Gallery.
 
This article was featured in Fine Art Today, a weekly e-newsletter from Fine Art Connoisseur magazine. To start receiving Fine Art Today for free, click here.
 

Thirty of the top female painters in the state of Kansas were selected for an outstanding exhibition opportunity at the Coutts Museum of Art. Details here!
 
On May 2, The Coutts Museum of Art in El Dorado, Kansas, was overjoyed to host an opening reception for “30 Women Paint Kansas,” which, as its title suggests, features 30 female artists living in the state of Kansas. Museum executive director Rod Seel said, “Kansas has so many talented artists, but particularly female artists. I wanted to put together an exhibit that showcased the wonderful female painters we have in the state, as well as highlight the beauty of Kansas. This show does that, with a wonderful collection of talented painters.”
 

Kristin Goering, “August Evening,” oil, 36 x 24 in. (c) The Coutts Museum of Art 2016

 
As exciting is the fact that many of the works on view will be available for purchase at incredibly reasonable prices, ranging anywhere from $500 to $6,000. Among the artists included in the exhibition are Kaye Abbott, Donna Aldridge, Margaret Buie, Donna Carrington, Kim Casebeer, Deb Clemente, Becky Drager, Kristin Goering, Dale Allison Hartley, Dana Hassett , Elaine Lierly Jones, Cally Krallman, Judith Mackey, Mary Binford Miller, Cher Heller Olson, Barbara Waterman Peters, Beverly Dodge Radefield, Susan Rose, Deb Schroer, Barbara Stecklein, Cristine Sundquist, Ellen Sweeney, Jean Terry, Ann Trusty, Debbie Wagner, Diana Werts, and Nancy Whitaker.
 

Judith Mackey, “Spirit of Holiness,” oil, 36 x 48 in. (c) The Coutts Museum of Art 2016

 
“30 Women Paint Kansas” will grace the walls of the Coutts Museum through July 2. To learn more, visit The Coutts Museum of Art.
 
This article was featured in Fine Art Today, a weekly e-newsletter from Fine Art Connoisseur magazine. To start receiving Fine Art Today for free, click here.
 

Aiming to reveal and exploit rather than disguise, artist Sherrie Wolf is poised to showcase her latest oils at Laura Russo Gallery in Portland, Oregon.
 
Visitors to Laura Russo Gallery in Portland, Oregon, this month will be treated to a captivating display of the magic of illusion. “Stage” is a solo exhibition opening May 5 that will feature the latest oils from painter Sherrie Wolf, who “aims to both exploit and to reveal, rather than disguise, the fact that art is artifice” she says. “My process is like designing a theatrical production in which I set the stage, choose the characters, and determine their gestures. I am drawn to complex layers of activity, and to both compositional and conceptual interactions.”
 

Sherrie Wolf, “Cascade,” 2016, oil on canvas, 72 x 42 in. (c) Laura Russo Gallery 2016

 
Among the works included in the show are a number of remarkable still lifes and self-portraits that explore a broad range of perspectives and juxtapositions. “Stage” opens on May 5 and will be on view through the end of the month. To learn more, visit Laura Russo Gallery.
 
This article was featured in Fine Art Today, a weekly e-newsletter from Fine Art Connoisseur magazine. To start receiving Fine Art Today for free, click here.
 

In this ongoing series for Fine Art Today, we take a longer look at the history and features of a soon-to-be-available artwork of note. This week: Auguste Rodin, “L’Éternel Printemps.”
 
French sculptor and modern icon Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) is among the most recognizable names in the pantheon of art history. Credited with having brought sculpture into the modern age, Rodin’s “Thinker,” “The Gates of Hell,” “The Kiss,” and “The Age of Bronze” might be comparable in influence to Michelangelo’s (1475-1564) “Pieta” or the “Doryphoros” by Polykleitos (circa 5th century BCE).
 
Born in Paris, France, in 1840, Rodin never endeavored to reject classicism outright, and although the sculptor desired academic recognition, there can be no doubt of his modern expressive genius. Rodin’s originality stemmed from both his craftsman-like approach to sculpting and his preference for psychology, individualism, character, and physicality.
 
Many of the artist’s works are housed in the greatest public collections around the globe, so the prospect of owning a Rodin original has heads turning, ears perked, and bank accounts steaming. Heading to auction via Sotheby’s “Impressionist & Modern Art Evening Sale” on May 9 is Rodin’s unimaginable “L’Éternel Printemps” — one of the artist’s most beloved sculptures. Carved from a single piece of flawless marble, two lovers dramatically and romantically embrace. Both subjects are overcome with passion and love. Although the viewer cannot see their faces, the sculpture touches everyone who views it through the theme of love.
 
The example here is believed to have been number five of 10 known carvings of the subject in marble, and arguably the best. Via Sotheby’s, “Animated by the dazzling play of light on the surface and the sweeping upward movement of the man, the figures seem ready to take flight. As evident in the present work, there is a marked increase in the eroticism of his art and a corresponding growth in the daring movement of the poses which could be a reflection of the artist’s studio practice of allowing the models to move freely and independently.” Collectors wishing to acquire this unparalleled marble will need to post a hefty sum: Auction estimates are between $8 million and $12 million.
 
To view the full catalogue, visit Sotheby’s.
 
This article was featured in Fine Art Today, a weekly e-newsletter from Fine Art Connoisseur magazine. To start receiving Fine Art Today for free, click here.
 

“Simply One Thing on His Mind”
2016
Oil on Belgian linen
8 x 10 in.
$6,200
 
www.westernvisions.org
 
About the artist:
Leo E. Osborne is one of nearly 80 artists whose work will be available for sale at the 29th Annual Western Visions Show and Sale at the National Museum of Wildlife Art. Western Visions takes place September 9 – October 9, 2016. John Banovich is a world-renowned artist and one fo the foremost conservationists of our era. Cerating award-winning oil paintings for over two decades his work is exhibited in museums and noteworthy collections across the glove. His deep passion, unwavering commitment and knowledge of wildlife continues to inspire.

The 29^th Annual Western Visions Show & Sale is carefully curated and includes both traditional and contemporary sketches, paintings, and sculpture. Western Visions is the cornerstone of Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival, and includes several fun and social events that allow collectors and artists to interact. Ticket sales and a full list of event details can be found at: www.westernvisions.org
 
 

“Anastasia”
Pastel
20 x 16
$3050
 
About the Artist:
William A. Schneider paints primarily from life.  Sargent, Zorn, and Fechin have been influences. He attended the Saturday Program of the American Academy of Art in Chicago for eight years where he studied life drawing with the legendary Bill Parks and oil painting with Ted Smuskiewicz.  William continued his education through workshops with Dan Gerhartz, Harley Brown, Richard Schmid and others.
 
He has been featured in numerous publications and has received top awards in exhibitions including those of: The American Impressionist Society, Oil Painters of America, The Pastel Society of America, and Salon International. He is represented by several galleries around the country. His six instructional DVDs are distributed by Liliedahl Video Productions.
 
Bill is a signature member of Oil Painters of America (OPA), and NOAPS. He is a Master Signature Member of Pastel Society of America, and the American Impressionist Society and is a Master Circle designee by the International Association of Pastel Societies.
 
Contact Information
www.SchneiderArt.com
[email protected]
 

“Except I Shall See – Doubting Thomas”
Giclee on canvas available
24 x 30 in.
$495
 
Upcoming Show:
LivvnArt Biblical and The Religious Academy proudly present “The Bible Art Tour.” at The June Craven Gallery in Denver.  Show will be opening Friday May 6th from 6:00-8:00 with a special spiritual program, Biblical Art demonstrations, and new Art Unveiling by Paul Grass of sketches of Jesus after the Resurrection from 7:30-8:00.  Art will be on display May 6th and runs indefinitely by apt at [email protected]. Preview the show at www.livvnart.org soon!
 
LivvnArt Biblical is a travelling Gallery focused on creating stunning new Classical Biblical Art and this show is a must see.  Artists John Stadler, Paul Grass, Marge Zylla, and many more are exhibiting work in a Beautiful Location just north of Washington Park in downtown Denver.  618 East 1st Avenue, Denver CO 80209.
 
LivvnArt showcases Faculty, Students and guests for The Religious Academy, www.thereligiousacademy.com, an Inter-Denominational Biblical Art School located in Denver Colorado.  Each month we exhibit new pieces of themed Biblical work and help the community by giving back to good causes.  This month we have Artwork for sale from the Brandy Cattoor Children’s Trust and the Gideon Grass Trust.
 
Donating Artists for the Trust include Brandy Cattoor, Paul Grass, Shari Cannon, Nikki Covington, J. Kirk Richards, Quang Ho, Mike Malm, Robert Barrett, Robert Kirby, Patricia Johnson, John Stadler, Corey Strange, Diane Burchett, Joseph Brickey and many more.  
 

“Evening Cadence”
oil
15 x 30 in.
 
About the Artist:
Marcia Molnar is one of the 26 artists participating in the 8th annual Grand Canyon Celebration of Art. The plein air event with the artists painting along the South Rim and in the Canyon takes place September 10-17, 2016 with the exhibit and sale of their work at Kolb Studio continuing through January 16, 2017. Proceeds from this event support the goal of establishing an art venue at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
 
This is the Arizona artist’s second year participating in the Celebration of Art.
She paints the Grand Canyon “because it is the closest I will come to touching the face of God.”
 
For more information please visit:
https://www.grandcanyon.org/arts-and-culture/2016-celebration-art