Clair Hartmann Daily Painting

"Desire" by Clair Hartmann

2012-02-13T09:02:00.002-08:00

14" x 12"

oil on canvas

This is one of those paintings that talks back to you.

I watched a movie the other night called "Facing the Habit" about the struggle of heroin addiction and new (successful) unconventional treatments. I was surprised at the end it said that 9 out of 10 addicts never recover. I don't need to tell you, that's pretty bad odds and another figure they threw out is that 500 new people try heroin everyday. That's pretty sad.

Well this brings us to this painting. I have always wanted to do a "stacked" painting and I was looking into my file of inspiration (not metaphorically, it's a real file) and pulled out the monkey, dog and orange and thought they looked really well together so I went with it and had a blast painting it. Later, I connected it to the addiction. The monkey is the burden of addiction and the addiction needs to be fed. It'll probably mean different things to everybody, but this is what it means to me.

"Pistol" Commission by Clair Hartmann

2012-02-08T17:08:00.000-08:00

Sold
8" x 10"

oil on panel

I will be in a Big Show at CoRK Arts District in Jacksonville March 10th - Here is the information. I hope you can make it!

The Immortals

Art Exhibition

Saturday, March 10, 2012 6-9PM

CoRK Arts District - West Gallery

2689 Rosselle St. Jacksonville, FL 32204

The Immortals Art Exhibition features the works of Clair Hartmann, Lee Harvey, Bruce Musser and Sharla Valeski. The four artists will be presenting new paintings, drawings and mix media works in the new CoRK Arts District - West Gallery located at 2689 Rosselle St. The exhibition is free and open to the public. Following the opening reception, the works will remain in the West gallery until the end of March and may be seen by appointment only.

"Sawyer" by Clair Hartmann

2012-02-05T06:59:00.000-08:00

12" x 9"

oil on panel

Sold

Precipice

2012-01-28T13:16:00.000-08:00

30" x 14"

oil on canvas

purchase

Really love painting these!

Loki Dog

2012-01-26T08:56:00.000-08:00

Loki

8" x 8"

oil on canvas

sold

Downtown Dog 8

If you think you've seen this painting before you have because it is number 8 in the Downtown Dog series.

If you don't believe painting everyday makes you a better and more confident painter, here is proof. The bottom was painted with doubt and fear the top was painted with confidence and joy. Not saying the bottom wasn't with joy, but it was overshadowed with doubt because I was learning and still am, just in a better place without fear of screwing up. It's a good place.

The reason I painted this again was because the Downtown Dog 8 was sold and then the owner of the dog, found my card and ended up seeing the show downtown and wanted the painting, but because it was sold, I painted her another. It was a great experience because I can truly see how much I've grown.

New Painting and New Book is Out!

2012-01-25T06:31:00.000-08:00

"Roscar" commission

10" x 8"

oil on panel

sold

My new book "Faithful" is now available at Blurb!!

29 paintings of the always faithful dog, in hardback and softcover.

Faithful

a series of dog pai...

By Clair Hartmann

Book Preview

Red Creek

2012-01-22T16:40:00.000-08:00

oil on canvas

20" x 16"

purchase

I have a love and envy of abstract painting. It has always been a struggle for me to trust myself enough to even complete an abstract painting. So when I can across Red Creek Jasper stones for my jewelry, I was tremendously moved. The colors and patterns in each stone are so unique and inspiring, I just had to give it a try.

This is what I came up with and by the way, I REALLY loved getting lost in this painting.

Three Plums

2012-01-21T15:22:00.000-08:00

18" x 5" x 1"

purchase

Bully

2012-01-09T07:40:00.000-08:00

(lost dog series)

8" x 8"

oil on panel

purchase

25% of this sale goes to Second Chance Pitt Bull Rescue

Paris Train

2012-01-05T10:05:00.000-08:00

12" x 9"

oil on panel

purchase

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T07:07:00.000-08:00

"2011"

12" x 7"

oil on panel

purchase

They say "Out with the old, in with the new" and this is my take on 2011. It was a tough year and I'm more than happy to start anew.

Right before Christmas I started getting a cold. At times, I felt I was getting better -then it came on "full tilt". When it was done, it socked me with a good old fashion 2-day migraine.

I'm happy (and relieved) to say on this beautiful New Year's Day, I feel renewed and fresh, being over this nastiness. It was such an appropriate way to end and begin this journey of a year.

Happy New Year Everybody!!

"Fritz" Commission

2011-12-22T14:35:00.000-08:00

"Fritz"

8" x 10"

oil on panel

Get your Free copy at the show!

Well, it's been a great (and successful) three months at WHQR Public Radio Station's Mc Erny Gallery. So far I've sold 14 paintings, been hired for commissions and gotten lots of promotion. Friday is the last show and then it comes down January 13th.

Not only will I have new paintings and prints for sale, I will be giving away five free copies of my new book to the first five that ask about it. After the show, the book will be available at Blurb.

So, if you're needing a break from the holiday rush or looking for that unique, last minute gift, come on by and relax with some music, wine and good company.

Pink Lady

2011-12-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

7" x 5"

oil on panel

purchase

Chumley, my dog's most favorite treat in the whole world is an apple. He absolutely goes crazy for them. I usually give him red delicious, but started to wonder about other varieties. Because we always have apples in the fridge I started enjoying them with meals, in salads and cooking with them and I realized I had only tried one and why? because there are so many types to choose from and I thought, maybe the name "red delicious" just seemed like it would be just red and really delicious, but how was I to know? Maybe there is one out there more delicious.

So I decided to compare, went to the grocery and bought as many varieties I could find. After apologizing to the checkout girl for having to scan and weight each one, I took them home and tried three at a time. I found they all are so different and wonderful, except for Granny Smith, which is just sour and bitter, Chumley even had a tough time with that one.

So far, I narrowed the best down to Honey Crisp, Jazz & Pink Lady (Cripps Pink). I'm still trying new ones and if I find a better one than these, I'll let you know.

By the way, Chumley is REALLY enjoying this experiment.

Mutt

2011-12-15T11:22:00.000-08:00

"Mutt"

7" x 5"

oil on panel
purchase

December 23rd will be the last show at WHQR's Holiday Party and I will have some new paintings showing aaaand.... I'm giving away five advanced copies of my new book coming out, called what else, "Faithful... A Series of Dog Paintings"!

The first five at the show to ask about the book get one... Yayy!

If you haven't seen the show, now is the time because it ends January 13th. So take a break, enjoy some food, wine, good company and vintage music by Susan Savia.

Ginger (lost dog series)

2011-12-09T15:37:00.001-08:00

7" x 7"

oil on panel

purchase

We found this dog down the street awhile ago, put up posters that night and received a call from the owner the next day, close to tears that their Ginger had been found. He had told us that she was very old and had wondered off during a move.

I just love a good ending, don't you?

Looking Back

2011-12-07T08:27:00.001-08:00

9" x 12"

oil on canvas

purchase

Sometimes we like to just take off exploring and shoot lots of photographs. The other day we ended up in Sneads Ferry at the seafood docks and this dog came running down the hill towards us like he had found long lost friends, once he got to us, he kept looking back. I guess to see if someone had noticed he was missing. I snapped a few shots of him looking at me and some looking away, but I really liked the shadow outline of his face looking away and loved the way it feels in this painting.

"Ollie" Commission

2011-12-06T16:47:00.001-08:00

10" x 10"

oil on panel

Note from client:

Oh my goodness it is so wonderful you are going to make me cry. It resembles him so much!

Ashley

Just got my "Faithful" Calendar today and it looks fantastic!!

Red Bubble Rules!

http://www.redbubble.com/people/clairhartmann/calendars/6333650-faithful-art-calendar-by-clair-hartmann?p=calendar

Gift Certificates Available!

2011-12-02T07:48:00.001-08:00

Cant decide on what to give the pet lover in your life...

How about a gift certificate!

purchase

Nita Sleeping

2011-11-29T17:42:00.001-08:00

16" x 8"

oil on panel
sold

Here's the response from the client...

"Ha! That is just awesome -- you rock!"

Lisa

"Faithful" Calendar on Sale Now!

2011-11-28T06:33:00.001-08:00

Hot off the presses!

The brand new "Faithful" Calendar is available now at Red Bubble.

If you use the promo code

HELLO2012

you get 10% off.

"Faithful" 2012 Calendar
http://www.redbubble.com/people/clairhartmann/calendars/6333650-faithful-art-calendar-by-clair-hartmann

Seagull Summer

2011-11-27T07:16:00.001-08:00

8" x 10"

oil on panel

purchase

Show Friday!

2011-11-23T17:27:00.001-08:00

Just in case you missed the first show, there will be another this Friday. We'll have munchies (human and canine kind), wine, coffee, music, and of course art!

Dogs are welcome!

Perry Smith will be playing and Doggie by Nature bakery will be there with samples and treats to buy.

Happy Thanksgiving!

"Molly" Commission

2011-11-22T06:01:00.001-08:00

9" x 12"

oil on panel

sold

"I LOVE it!! You captured her absolutely perfectly. Thank you so much!" Sarah

"Really?"

2011-11-20T10:26:00.001-08:00

6" x 6"

oil on panel

purchase

I saw this photo on the Boston Terrier Rescue page. This cuteness' name is Murphy and he is available. He looks like he saying

"Really? you want to take me home?"

25% of this sales goes to BTRNC

"Broken Egg" and Focus on the Coast Magazine Article

2011-11-19T17:49:00.001-08:00

6" x 6"

oil on canvas

purchase

I have great News!! I was just featured in Focus on the Coast Magazine!!

Here is the article - I'm so excited!

Focus on the Coast Magazine

Broken Egg Shell

2011-11-15T16:35:00.001-08:00

6" x 6"

oil on canvas

painted sides
sold

"I was lost, but now I'm found"

2011-11-13T15:11:00.001-08:00

8" x 8"

oil on panel

SOLD

"Found"

2011-11-11T16:41:00.001-08:00

7" x 7"

oil on panel
sold

This painting was like savoring a fine meal - I absolutely loved every minute of this one and wanted it to last forever.

"Lucky" Commission

2011-11-09T06:43:00.000-08:00

14" x 18"

oil on canvas
sold

I have decided to start posting the letters from the clients so you can see why I paint portraits.

From the Client...
WOW. You have captured him so well, and the background is wonderful! I am no artist but I had a feeling it would be a difficult painting -
Again, WOW. I love it.
Thank you!
Catherine

His name is "Lucky," and he has a story:
He was found in the middle of I-40 scrunched up, with trucks running over him - the wheels straddling his body. A state trooper picked him up and noticed that someone had left a box of 5 puppies next to the highway - Lucky #5 was the only survivor.
The story made the local newspaper, and the local Friends for Animals indicated they would have a contest to see who could take Lucky home. My 10 year old son was volunteering at the shelter, and for some reason they only let him pet the cats. Lucky was housed away from the other dogs, and my son would find a way to pet Lucky instead of the cats. So, when Lucky was old enough to be adopted, my son entered the contest and wrote a letter about Lucky, and WE were the "lucky" ones who took him home.
That was 7 years ago!
Thanks again!

Just letting you know slots are filling up for commissions - it's best to get in early.

If you go to my portraits site you can get info on pricing, etc.

www.petportraitsbyclair.com

Catch of the Day

2011-11-05T14:13:00.000-07:00

9" x 12"

oil on canvas

sold

"Gone Fishin'"

2011-10-30T07:26:00.000-07:00

9" x 12"

oil on canvas
sold

It's starting to turn cold here and the fishing for redfish and trout and is on! Guy went with a few friends (I couldn't go because I was a little busy with the show) and took some amazing photos. I snagged a few for inspiration. Now I want to go fishing, but unfortunately I'm a "fair weather fisherwoman"!

New Painting and the Show

2011-10-29T20:05:00.000-07:00

"Comfort Zone"

5" x 5"

oil on panel

SOLD

The show was a total success! Packed house, great food, great music, some funky dance and lots of great patrons.

Sold six paintings - one in the first few minutes. I had such an awesome time and I'm glad to be taking a little break, although I spent much of the day painting. There will be another show November 25th with a few new paintings.

I made a little video so you all can be a part of the most fabulous evening.

The official "Faithful" Art Show Video:

http://youtu.be/owvbQBUCUrg

Just so you know, I have all the paintings (I'm still adding a few) from the show for sale on my Etsy Shop. When you go to my shop you'll see a folder called "WHQR Faithful Show" with the paintings in it. Part of the proceeds go to support WHQR.

Also, here is a little write up from the Star News

http://wae.blogs.starnewsonline.com/21109/faithful-clair-hartmann-paints-mans-best-friend/

"Faithful" Show & New Paintings

2011-10-27T18:22:00.000-07:00

"The Critic"
18" x 24"
purchase

Today I spent 5 hours hanging the show at WHQR. It was actually pretty fun. I'm so proud to be showing in such a great gallery.

Here is a video of the "State of the Art" show at the Cameron Museum. I'm in and my painting are in a few shots. The show is coming down in just a few days so if you want to see it, get down there!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95ocyVt7D5M&feature=player_embedded#!

"Frida Dog" for International Artist Day

2011-10-25T07:25:00.000-07:00

16" x 20"

oil on canvas

Today is International Artist Day and I am honoring one of my most favorite artists, Frida Kahlo.

I took inspration from three of her paintings. Two named "Self Portrait with Monkey" and "Flower Headdress".

I painted my dog as Frida's "Self Portrait with Monkey" because he has a toy monkey that he plays with and I thought it would be fun to paint, which it was.

While I painted this I thought a lot about why she painted the way she did and I think because she was on her back from a debilitating injury most of her life and probably on heavy pain killers, she had a lot of time. So she did detail, lots of it; hairs on the leaves, monkey, flowers, everything. I think also, some of her imaginary paintings stem from her altered state - just guessing. I always wondered, If she had not been injured, would she have painted these beautiful paintings or how would her life had been different?

Here is some history:

Frida Kahlo said regarding her painting ""I never paint dreams or nightmares. I paint my own reality. The only thing I know is that I paint because I need to, and I paint whatever passes through my head without any other consideration." The way she approached life out of her pain can be understood in this statement "I paint self-portraits because I am so often alone, because I am the person I know best." "My painting carries with it the message of pain." Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, stricken with polio as a child and injured badly in an accident when she was 18, struggled with pain and disability all her life. Her paintings reflect a modernist take on folk art and integrate her experience of suffering. Frida Kahlo paintings included self portraits that depicted her physical and emotional pain and suffering. She used a lot of symbolism in her works and borrowed elements from surrealism and naive art. Frida Kahlo was married to artist Diego Rivera.

Sleeping Dachshund and other happenings

2011-10-22T05:30:00.000-07:00

"Peace of Blue"

4" x 5"

furiously working away for the show

My painting on the NBC Show "Parenthood"

Here's another shot

and... another

"Please?"

2011-10-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

24" x 24"

oil on canvas

purchase

Shore Leave

2011-10-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

40" x 30"

oil on fabric on canvas

purchase

Don't forget my show is coming up next Friday!

Click here for more info:

www.clairhartmann.com

Chiquita Banana

2011-10-17T04:06:00.000-07:00

30" x 30"

oil on canvas

purchase

After the Hunt

2011-10-16T04:56:00.000-07:00

4" x 4"

oil on panel

purchase

My show is coming up the 28th - Mark your calendars!!

http://clairhartmann.com/

Shelter Dog

2011-10-11T18:07:00.000-07:00

9" x 12"

oil on canvas

from the lost dog series

Things are coming along pretty well. Working on a few new paintings for the show and just finished a portrait, but can't post it because it's a surprise for some lucky person.

Christmas portraits have already started rolling in. If you are interested in commissioning one, get in early - slots fill up fast!

www.petportraitsbyclair.com

Steve Jobs

2011-10-09T04:54:00.000-07:00

The recent passing on Steve Jobs had little effect on me. Not because I just don't care, but because at this moment my life is a whirlwind of activity.... my own show in two and a half weeks, 5 paintings in progress, 3 commissions, an illustration job, marketing, and of course all the regular stuff your supposed to do in life, laundry, grocery shopping, feeding the dog, etc.

When I received this blog post by Duane Keiser, the painter that inspired me to get off my butt and paint, I had to pause and think about how Steve Jobs has affected my life so deeply. Without his genius, I would not be where I am today and wouldn't even be having this show. The mac has allowed me to market my work and reach millions of people rather than a few hundred through a gallery.

Duane says it so much more eloquently here:
Keiser on Painting

Thank you Steve Jobs for changing my life.

"Faithful" October 28th, 2011

2011-10-07T04:48:00.000-07:00

"Faithful: A Series of Dog Paintings", by artist Clair Hartmann will open at the WHQR gallery October 28th. Included in the show are portraits from her popular Wilmington based "Downtown Dogs" series, a premiere showing of her new body of work, "Lost Dogs", and a sampling of beloved canine companions ranging from whimsical, classical to contemporary.

Guitarist Rick Toby will provide a musical backdrop with smooth sounds of the deep south Delta Blues, and the Adopt-An-Angel rescue group will be there with some furry friends in need of a loving home who would just love to meet you! So please join us for an evening to celebrate and support the Arts... WHQR...and our faithful canine companions. Who knows? You may meet the love of your life!

Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them,
Filling an emptiness we don't even know we have.

~ Thom Jones

PRESS RELEASE

Bowl of Cherries up for auction

2011-09-29T08:47:00.000-07:00

"Bowl of Cherries"
8"x 8"
Oil on panel

I recently put this painting up for auction at dailypaintworks.com, a new daily painter's site I recently joined.
The starting bid is $65
http://www.dailypaintworks.com/buy/auction/16428

I have been away in Florida for a little mini vacation. Tomorrow we drive back. I started a small painting and then got caught up in a mosaic project in the kitchen. Here's a photo. Lots of fun, but didn't get done what I should have since I'm having a show in less than a month.
Oh well!

Update on "Chiquita" & "Parenthood"

2011-09-21T07:12:00.000-07:00

I have decided to revisit Chiquita. It needed something... Drama! So I changed the background color and working more on the earring and chest fur.

Remember when I posted that NBC's "Parenthood" show had purchased 6 paintings? Well, I watched the first episode yesterday on my NBC App for my IPad and saw the Pear! That's the only one so far.

Here are the others, if you see one, let me know.

It's kind of like a treasure hunt on TV.

Lost Dog III

2011-09-15T11:03:00.001-07:00

6" x 6"

oil on canvas

purchase

Barista Dog

2011-09-11T18:38:00.000-07:00

4" x 7"

oil on wood panel

purchase

Me and Guy were eating at Baristas, downtown, Wilmington, one of my favorite breakfast places and this guy walked up with this dog looking for a home for him. He was so adorable and it broke my heart. I don't know what happened to him. Let's hope he found a good home for him.

This is part of the "lost dog" series I've been working on.

Chiquita

2011-09-08T15:41:00.000-07:00

30" x 30"

oil on panel

purchase

My new Cabana Carport (Phase I Complete)

Street Dog

2011-09-03T07:44:00.000-07:00

8" x 10"

oil on panel

(lost dog series)
sold

Bowl of Cherries & Downtown Dog Paint Sketch

2011-09-01T14:04:00.000-07:00

8" x 8"

Purchase

8" x 8"

sold

I did the cherry painting during the hurricane while the power was out. We had no major damage and it was quite exciting - I thought it was very appropriate that the hurricane landed on my birthday since I was born in a hurricane 47 years ago!

Before the hurricane at the beach

New Painting "Big City Dog"

2011-08-25T16:55:00.000-07:00

14" x 11

sold

Well, I took a little break to turn my carport into a cabana paradise and I'm so close to my peace and serenity, and not to forget, the fruity drinks, but still need to add some finishing touches. I'll send a photo when I get done.

I have really exciting news... I have been chosen to have my own show in October (up for 3 months) featuring all my dogs at the WHQR Gallery downtown!! I'm so excited! I will post the dates later...

NOW, it's time to get busy!!

First Class at Bald Head Island

2011-08-18T17:18:00.000-07:00

Well, my first teaching experience went well. I'm so thankful it was a small class - I was so NERVOUS! After a while the nervousness faded and we all had a great time. Here are my students - none of them had painted before except one, who had painted in oils for the first time a week before at another class. They each had a their own unique style and all did awesome!

Time Flies!

2011-08-14T18:50:00.000-07:00

I just noticed my last post was July 31! Wow, time flies! Sorry I have been so neglectful in my posting, but I haven't been painting much. I did paint some abstracts and I thought about posting them, but I never know if they are done, so I'm waiting to see where they go first.

Anyway, the table and benches have been my big project and I have been absolutely loving it! My goal is to create a "Cabana Carport" with tropical plants, string lights, bamboo, tiki torches, fruity drinks, you get the idea. Basically turning what was a nightmare space into a place of peace and serenity.

One of my paintings has been featured on The Pet Museum blog. They wrote some really nice things about "Beach Dog" painting and the comments underneath are awesome!

I also wanted to remind everyone again about the portraits class this Thursday.

Click below for more information.

Click here for more information

www.clairhartmann.com

Carpe Noctem

2011-07-31T16:24:00.001-07:00

30" x 30"

oil on canvas

purchase

Transition

2011-07-30T14:58:00.000-07:00

26" x 20"

oil on canvas

SOLD

There is a part of me that wants to understand what makes realism work on canvas.

There is a part of me that wants to paint what I see, another part wants to express what I feel through color and imagery, there are so many different painters inside of me and I guess that's why my style has so many variations. It used to bother me because I see all these other artists that are consistent with their style and subject and I thought that's how I should be and I tried, but I just can't do it. These other artists inside of me have to be heard and won't let me rest until they are. Who am I to shut them up? It does make life interesting for me and (hopefully) for you too. :)

Dawson's Creek

2011-07-29T10:18:00.000-07:00

30" x 30"

oil on canvas

purchase

I had so much fun painting this - Perfect day, the colors, brushstrokes, music, everything - I really feel like the training wheels came off for this one.

River Sunset

2011-07-28T18:09:00.000-07:00

6" x 4"

oil on wood
purchase

Chiquita Banana

2011-07-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

30" x 30"

oil on canvas

I'm about 80% done with this. Still need to work on the hat and fine fur. I also thought she needed an earring, so I started to add a nice "tropical fruit bunch" earring which I thought was appropriate for the subject.

Night Cicada

2011-07-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

SOLD

I wanted to experience something different and whimsical.

Curious

2011-07-23T18:32:00.000-07:00

6" x 4"

oil on wood

I am a big fan of coffee and the best coffee I have found, though years of trial and error is Fresh Market brand. The nearest Fresh Market is in Gainesville, so I took a trip today. I saw this guy on my journey. I'm not sure if he or she is a mule or donkey, but he/she was very curious (and cute) while I stopped to snap a photo. I would have stayed and chatted for awhile, but it was hot and coffee was waiting.

Blue Sky with a Side of Clouds

2011-07-22T16:21:00.001-07:00

5" x 7"

oil on panel

purchase

Clair Hartmann, Artist

email me

shop

Lake Sunset II

2011-07-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

5" x 7"

oil on panel

Better photo of "Lake Sunset"

Lake Sunset

2011-07-20T19:01:00.000-07:00

7" x 5"

oil on panel

Lake III

2011-07-19T10:18:00.000-07:00

"Resurrected"

5" x 7"

oil on panel

This little boat had sunk a while ago and was brought back to shore. Not sure if it can be used again, but it does make a nice painting.

"Lake II", "Ollie" Commission, and "Chiquita" Progress

2011-07-17T18:57:00.000-07:00

"Lake II - Clouds Clearing"

7" x 5"

oil on panel

"Ollie" Commission

12" x 19"

oil on panel

"Chiquita"

30" x 30"

oil on canvas

in progress

Paintings, Lake and Film

2011-07-16T10:56:00.000-07:00

Lake I

7" x 5"

oil on panel

This is first in a series of paintings at the lake house. I'm going to try to paint one everyday while I'm here. Today was a nice rainy, gray day and the clouds were shifting from dark to light and back again. It was quite beautiful.

Although this has nothing to do with painting, is does have something to do with my art. I have just completed a book cover for author, Nicole Louise Reid, winner of the Burnside Review Fiction Chapbook Competition. You can read more about it here.

Which brings me to my recent epiphany. I have alway struggled with my identity as an artist... "am I a graphic designer or a painter?" Well, I realized the other day, on my journey as being a painter, I was taught graphic design to be a better, more rounded painter. Being a successful artist, you must market yourself and if you aren't going to rely on a gallery to do it for you, you must do it yourself. I would prefer not to rely on a gallery (although, I do love the Woods gallery on Bald Head Island because it's really fun to take trips there) because in my opinion, I feel I can sell my paintings better and reach more of an audience on the world wide internet with my graphic design and marketing skills. It's a little more work, but it fun for me.

While we are on the subject of reaching more of an audience, somehow through all the marketing, NBC saw my work and has purchased six of my paintings to be in the backdrop of the show "Parenthood" in the fall. SO keep an eye out for paintings. I gotta tell ya, I'm as giddy as a school girl about this!!

Also, a movie that is being filmed now called "Hick" with one of my favorite actresses, Juliette Lewis used two of my paintings. Hopefully the scene won't get cut - keeping fingers crossed.

2011-07-09T11:20:00.001-07:00

Wanted to let everyone know, I will be teaching a

portrait painting class next month on Bald Head Island.

Click here for more information

www.clairhartmann.com

CLAIR HARTMANN, ARTIST

WILMINGTON, NC

My Etsy Shop

EMAIL ME

The Explorer

2011-07-09T08:48:00.000-07:00

30" x 23"

oil on handmade paper

on panel

Purchase

100 Dogs Poster

2011-07-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

24" x 24"

Signed Print

Purchase

Now that I have found a reputable and excellent printer, I am now offering the "100 Dogs" poster in my store. 100% of the profit goes to Adopt-an-Angel in Wilmington, NC. If you would like a smaller size, email me and I will give you a price.

These prints are absolutely gorgeous and archival! I am also offering any painting as a print of any size, so if you have something in mind let me know.

Busy, Busy!!!

2011-06-29T19:20:00.000-07:00

Hydrangeas and Fruit

16" x 12"

oil on gesso panel

Purchase

Grassy Marsh

8" x 10"

oil on gesso panel

Purchase

Life has been crazy busy lately. Between, painting, marketing and yes, you heard it people, selling art, I barely have time to do anything else. Lately, I have been hitting marketing hard on Etsy, Twitter, Facebook, and any place that'll have me and it has paid off!! I have seen a bump in sales like I have never seen before. Finally!!

Hope everyone is having a nice summer and not too hot, too wet or too dry. :)

Gardenia in Blue Cup

2011-06-24T13:33:00.000-07:00

5" x 7"

oil on gesso panel

purchase

Somewhere in the Midwest

2011-06-21T14:25:00.000-07:00

10.5" x 5"

oil on gesso panel

Purchase

Oyster Shell with Green Bowl

2011-06-12T13:13:00.000-07:00

7" x 5"

oil on gesso panel

sold

First Gardenia

2011-06-08T09:04:00.002-07:00

"First Gardenia"
13.5" x 11"
oil on gesso panel
View in Etsy

In my garden, I have about six large gardenia bushes and every year they burst with fragrant flowers and childhood memories of my grandmother. I try to paint at least one every year and this is the first of the year.

Good Dog

2011-06-02T17:16:00.000-07:00

16" x 12"

oil on gesso board

Purchase

Hilda and Desk Project

2011-05-30T17:58:00.000-07:00

"Hilda"

10" x 10"

oil on panel

sold

Desk Project

This weekend we proved to ourselves we have woodworking skills. We put together drawings, made a model and brought this desk to life. Thought I would share some photos.

our model

finished!!

"Hilda" Progress

2011-05-23T16:02:00.000-07:00

10" x 10"

oil on panel

Studio project done!

"Hilda" in progress

2011-05-17T20:02:00.000-07:00

10" x 10"

oil on panel

Although I think about painting 100% of the time, I haven't been doing much lately. Have been needing to take a break for awhile. Really enjoying the jewelry making and all the new techniques involved.

We are currently doing a garage makeover and as you probably know, it is a long involved process with lots of dust and dirt. I'm just glad it's not hot yet.

Here is a photo shortly after we cleared everything out and did a little painting. As you can see Guy is hard at work (he loves projects).

Banjo

2011-05-09T16:44:00.000-07:00

8" x 10"

oil on panel

SOLD

At The Cameron Museum

2011-05-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

My painting "Wonky Bumbershoots" is on display at the Cameron Art Museum along with 800+ artists throughout North Carolina until October, 2011.

It is a fantastic show!

Here are some articles...

My painting is mentioned here - yayy!

http://wae.blogs.starnewsonline.com/17257/madness-at-the-cameron-art-museum-the-opening-reception/?tc=ar

http://wae.blogs.starnewsonline.com/17237/madness-at-the-cameron-art-museum/?tc=ar

Oyster Shell

2011-05-05T10:01:00.000-07:00

7" x 5"

oil on panel

purchase

Pink Camellia

2011-05-04T16:21:00.000-07:00

8" x 5"

oil on gesso panel

purchase

New Jewelry

2011-04-24T15:20:00.000-07:00

www.fullmoonmetal.com

Happy Easter everyone!

Taking a break

2011-04-21T14:20:00.000-07:00

Although I've been taking a little break, I've been working a retouching a large painting that I had completed about 5 years ago. In May the Cameron Museum is having an open call to artists to celebrate the spirit of art maverick, Walter Hopps, where they have "no jurying, no selection (or rejection), and no entry fee" and I plan on bringing this painting once I finish it and it will hang there until October.

I also have been enjoying making metal jewelry.

I now have an Etsy shop called Full Moon Metal Jewelry Designs

you can find it at

www.fullmoonmetal.com

Here are some recent pieces - some will be in a show at Botega - will send more info on the show later.

Spider Wort

2011-04-17T20:33:00.000-07:00

10" x 8"

oil on gesso panel

purchase

This is this week's Daily Paintworks Challenge

Angel Descending

2011-04-14T16:46:00.000-07:00

I have finally finished "Angel Descending" and the client loves it! I have worked on this painting so long I had forgotten when I started. After going through a tons of frames, this is the frame I have picked out for it.

Here is another finished piece of jewelry - I have been having so much fun with these!

Copper Butterfly Wing

Purchase

Three Hens

2011-04-11T21:02:00.000-07:00

10" x 8"

oil on gesso-panel

SOLD

This is this week's challenge painting from dailypaintworks.com

I have a new shop open on Etsy called Lapidary Lounge. It will feature the new jewelry that I have been have so much fun with.

You can see it here.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/lapidarylounge?ga_search_query=lapidarylounge&ga_search_type=all&ga_facet=

Something Different

2011-04-09T21:04:00.000-07:00

I decided to take a little break this weekend and do something different. So I made some jewelry.

Here's what I came up with.

Copper Dragonfly Wing Necklace

with Turquoise Beads

Copper Dragonfly Wing Necklace

with Turquoise Bead

Copper truly is an amazing material. When it is heated it turns these amazing iridescent colors and you can roll patterns into it like this dragonfly pattern. Oh, and it's inexpensive so you can play around with it and not worry about messing up.

Wilmington Spring Art Show

2011-04-07T17:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I am happy to say I had two paintings accepted into the Wilmington Spring Show, "Summer Azaleas" and "Leap of Faith". "Leap of Faith" won the "Dick Blick Award"!

Here are some photos.

"Summer Azaleas"

"Leap of Faith"

Sir Boston

2011-04-06T11:35:00.000-07:00

3.25" x 2.25" painting
5.5" x 4.5" framed

purchase

The Road Less Traveled

2011-04-05T17:21:00.000-07:00

10" x 8"

oil on gesso panel
purchase

This painting is for this week's DPW Challenge. You can see them all here:

http://www.dailypaintworks.com/Challenge/56AAD6CE-3D9C-44E2-9A5D-D949A16212B0

Well, it turns out having an eclectic style can be a good thing - I've had two offers to have my paintings in movies that are being filmed here in Wilmington. One is with Juliette Lewis, (I just love her work) and the other is a low budget teen horror film.

Fridge-Art Paintings

2011-04-04T20:32:00.000-07:00

Lobster on Ice

Purchase

Persimmon

Purchase

Florida Landscape

Purchase

They are all

Original oil paintings on gesso panel

3.25" x 2.25" painting

5.5" x 4.5" framed

professionally framed and magnet backed.

I made these miniature paintings, put these frames on them and stuck a magnet on the back to create Fridge-Art! What fridge couldn't use a little culture (excuse the pun).

Anyway, just having some fun.

Lone Gull

2011-04-03T19:23:00.000-07:00

15" x 6"

oil on gesso panel

purchase

Paintings in Progress

2011-03-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

Dane

2' x 5'

oil on canvas

Angel Descending

oil on panel

Here are some paintings I'm working on.

I have been invited to be in a show at Wesleyan College next year with 3 other artists and will be working on about 11 large paintings - this is the first. I wanted to incorporate an abstract in the background, not sure why, maybe because the dane looks confused or maybe because he's in black and white and I was just wanting some color. In any case, abstract is very difficult for me, I find I face a lot of self doubt when attempting these types of paintings, not sure why, but it is something to explore.

The second is a painting I've been working on for a long time, maybe this will be my "Mona Lisa" painting that I work on my whole life and never finish... let's hope not, because the client has been extra patient up until now, which I greatly appreciate!

Pet Portraits Clinic this Saturday by Clair Hartmann

2011-03-29T06:19:00.000-07:00

I forgot to post where I'll be on Saturday!!
Here it is:

Old Books on Front Street
249 North Front Street
Wilmington, NC

Pet Portraits Clinic this Saturday!

2011-03-28T18:36:00.000-07:00

I wanted to let you know I will be doing a pet portrait clinic downtown, Wilmington which basically consists of me demonstrating how a portrait is painted, answering questions, etc. If you are interested in having a portrait done and don't have photos for me to use for reference, I will be taking photos as well.

Please drop by, bring your pet and have a delicious cup of coffee and a sweet treat from SUGAR inside the bookstore.

249 North Front Street
Wilmington, NC

Go here for more info:
www.petportraitsbyclair.com

Carolina Jasmine II

2011-03-27T20:51:00.000-07:00

9" x 12"

Oil on canvas

Carolina Jasmine

2011-03-26T17:53:00.000-07:00

9" x 12"

oil on canvas panel

view in shop

This jasmine is blooming everywhere here along with everything else. It's so beautiful.

Green Pear

2011-03-23T19:25:00.000-07:00

5" x 7"

oil on gesso panel

$65

view in shop

I keep trying to get the color right on this pear. I've painted it a few times through out the past year and I am getting close. I think this is the best one yet, which is good.

Persimmon II

2011-03-21T19:26:00.000-07:00

7" x 5"

oil on gesso panel

$65.00

purchase

Spring Pansies III

2011-03-20T18:52:00.000-07:00

7" x 5"

oil on gesso panel

$65

purchase

O.k., this is the last pansy for a while. I'm just so excited about spring and I also wanted to keep painting this subject until I felt comfortable with it. Flowers are tough and this came out exactly the way I wanted it to.

I have this painting up for auction on the Daily Paint Works site to help victims of Japan. The starting bid is $75. Get a nice painting and help someone out that may have lost everything. Every little bit helps.

To see all the beautiful paintings on auction go here:

http://www.dailypaintworks.com/Challenge/FC50B15D-5016-4E5E-87F2-87C3F79BA65B