83rd Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature - Honorable Mention for The Return

This weekend is the opening of the Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society of Washington, DC's   83rd Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature.  I'm so happy that my two graphite entries, Sanctuary and The Return were both accepted in the show!  I'm even happier that my entry, The Return was awarded an Honorable Mention!  There will be more than 600 tiny treasures from around the world for this ever-popular juried exhibition.

 Sanctuary © Barbara A. Freeman, M.A.A.

3 5/8" x 3 5/8" Graphite and Mixed Media on Claybord

The Return © Barbara A. Freeman, M.A.A.

3 5/8" x 3 5/8" Graphite and Mixed Media on Claybord

Awarded Honorable Mention

 Sanctuary and The Return  © Barbara A. Freeman, M.A.A.

 3 5/8" x 3 5/8" Graphite and Mixed Media on Claybord - Framed

The Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society (MPSGS) of Washington, DC is the second oldest Miniature Arts Society in the world, the oldest in the United States. The 83rd Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature show is held at The Mansion at the Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, MD. They are open, Weekdays 10-4 • Wed. 10-9 • Sat. 10-4 and Sun. 12-4 (closed Mon. and Holidays). The Exhibition Opening is Sunday, November 20th, 2016, 2 to 4.  The show runs November 20th through December 31st, 2016.  This years Judge is Judy Lalingo, Professional Artist.  If you are in the area, this is a beautiful venue and a show not to miss.  These tiny treasures make great holiday gifts!

THE SPIRIT OF A MINIATURE (Taken from the prospectus)

This unique art form, based on a minute scale, traces its roots back to the book paintings and illuminated manuscripts set in the 7th century.  A work of fine art in miniature is a particularly personal object that draws the viewer into an intimate, concentrated little world that is breathtaking in its execution.  Every single detail is miniaturized – the scale of the subject matter, the brush or pencil strokes – so that only with high magnification can one behold the immaculate details of the artist's technique which may include stippling, hatching or pointillism.  These techniques are a specialized means of producing a perfect balance of color and detail in a series of thinly applied layers of exquisite color intended to reflect light. The miniatures show a high standard of design and the artist’s mastery of the chosen media and palette.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read about my work.  I will also have work in the Miniature Art Society of Florida's show coming up in January - more info soon.  May you find many things to be thankful for this Thanksgiving! 

82nd Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature (MPSGS)

I'm so happy that my two graphite entries, The Visitors and Forest Lodge were accepted in the Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society (MPSGS), for their upcoming show in November!

The Visitors and Forest Lodge    © Barbara A. Freeman M.A.A.

Both 3 5/8" x 3 5/8"  Graphite and Mixed Media on Claybord

 
The Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society (MPSGS) of Washington, DC is the second oldest Miniature Arts Society in the world, the oldest in the United States. The 82nd Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature show is held at The Mansion at the Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, MD. They are open, Weekdays 10-4 • Wed. 10-9 • Sat. 10-3 (closed Sun. and Holidays). The Exhibition Opening is Sunday, November 22nd, 2015, 2 to 4.  The show runs November 22nd through January 3rd, 2016.  This years Judge is James Rogowski, Professional Artist.  If you are in the area, this is a beautiful venue and a show not to miss.  These tiny treasures make great holiday gifts!

Forest Lodge © Barbara A. Freeman, M.A.A.

3 5/8" x 3 5/8"  Graphite and Mixed Media on Claybord

The Visitors © Barbara A. Freeman, M.A.A.

3 5/8" x 3 5/8"  Graphite and Mixed Media on Claybord

THE SPIRIT OF A MINIATURE (Taken from the prospectus)

This unique art form, based on a minute scale, traces its roots back to the book paintings and illuminated manuscripts set in the 7th century.  A work of fine art in miniature is a particularly personal object that draws the viewer into an intimate, concentrated little world that is breathtaking in its execution.  Every single detail is miniaturized – the scale of the subject matter, the brush or pencil strokes – so that only with high magnification can one behold the immaculate details of the artist's technique which may include stippling, hatching or pointillism.  These techniques are a specialized means of producing a perfect balance of color and detail in a series of thinly applied layers of exquisite color intended to reflect light. The miniatures show a high standard of design and the artist’s mastery of the chosen media and palette.

This year has been another year with not much time to create.  It didn't seem like we were home for long, settling in to our new living arrangements with Gina and Zita, when we were once again on the road, or railroad as it was.  From train to rent car we drove in Indiana to visit my Mom-in-law who is in long-term care.  She looked great and is getting around so well!  From there we drove to the airport in Indy to fly to Florida to visit my folks.  It was great to see both our families, I just wish everyone was not so far away!  

Home at last I am finding time to get in my studio and hopefully I will get my head and heart back in to my work!  I aim to spend less time on Facebook and more time on making my art!  As always, thank you for taking the time to read about my work.

MPSGS Show and Honorable Mention Award

I'm doing the happy dance that all three of my entries were accepted in the Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society (MPSGS) of Washington D. C. for their upcoming show in November!  Doing the even happier dance that my entry, Capturing the Glow was awarded an Honorable Mention!

Capturing the Glow  © Barbara A. Freeman M.A.A.

Graphite and Mixed Media  3 5/8" x 3 5/8"

 

Capturing the Glow  3 5/8" x 3 5/8"  Graphite on Claybord

Smooching  1 3/4" x 2 3/4"  Acrylic

Sure Signs of Autumn  3 5/8" x 3 5/8"  Acrylic

© Barbara A. Freeman, M.A.A.

My three works, Capturing the Glow,  Sure Signs of Autumn and Smooching will be in the Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society's 81st Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature.  The show is held in The Mansion at the Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, MD.  They are open, Weekdays 10-4 • Wed. 10-9 • Sat. 10-3 (closed Sun. and Holidays).  The Exhibition Opening is Sunday, November 23rd, 2014, 2 to 4.  The show runs November 23rd through January 5th 2015.  This years Judge is Linda Rossin, Professional Artist.  If you are in the area, this is a beautiful venue and a show not to miss.  These tiny treasures make great holiday gifts!

THE SPIRIT OF A MINIATURE (Taken from the prospectus)

This unique art form, based on a minute scale, traces its roots back to the book paintings and illuminated manuscripts set in the 7th century.  A work of fine art in miniature is a particularly personal object that draws the viewer into an intimate, concentrated little world that is breathtaking in its execution.  Every single detail is miniaturized – the scale of the subject matter, the brush or pencil strokes – so that only with high magnification can one behold the immaculate details of the artist's technique which may include stippling, hatching or pointillism.  These techniques are a specialized means of producing a perfect balance of color and detail in a series of thinly applied layers of exquisite color intended to reflect light. The miniatures show a high standard of design and the artist’s mastery of the chosen media and palette.

A quick note to say I was surprised to find I was awarded a Merit Award for my work, Afghan Kitty at the 36th Annual Arts of the Terrace, Mountlake Terrace. On another note, I'm sorry to say I will not be submitting work to the Miniature Art Society of Florida (MASF) show this year.  This is the first time since I've first enter the show that I've not been able to send work.  Alas, I knew this could happen last year when I was not able to be in my studio.  But family came first and that is the way it has to be.  I'm just glad that I'm back in my studio now!  Things work out and you move forward.  As always, thank you for taking the time to read about my work.

80th Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature - MPSGS - Washington, D. C.

I received good news that all three of my entries were accepted in the Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society (MPSGS) of Washington D. C. for their upcoming show in November! This is very happy news!  This year all my entries are bird images, from my series, Birds - Wild and Domestic. 

 Crow and Clover  © Barbara A. Freeman M.A.A.

Graphite and Colored Pencil  2 1/4" x 3 1/4"

Negotiation Acrylic on Claybord  3 5/8" x 3 5/8"

The Hunter  Acrylic on True Gesso Panel  3 5/8" x 3 5/8"

Crow and Clover   Graphite and Colored Pencil  2 1/4" x 3 1/4"

© Barbara A. Freeman M.A.A.

My three works, Crow and Clover,  Negotiation and The Hunter will be in the Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society's 80th Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature.  The show is held in The Mansion at the Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, MD.  They are open, Weekdays 10-4 • Wed. 10-9 • Sat. 10-3 (closed Sun. and Holidays).  The Exhibition Opening is Sunday, November 24th, 2013, 2 to 4.  The show runs November 25th through January 4th 2013.  If you are in the area, this is a beautiful venue and a show not to miss.  These tiny treasures make a great holiday gift!

I will also have work in the annual invitational, Miniature Masterpieces and More! show coming up in December at Tsuga Gallery in Bothell, WA.  (formally Kaewyn Gallery) Then upcoming in 2014 is the Miniature Art Society of Florida's (MASF) annual show that I will be participating in.  More information will given about these shows when they are announced.

I know I have been scarce with news this year, but it's been a very unsettling year with family business and responsibilities for both my husband and myself!  We also are involved in some personal life experiences that are taking up much of our attention.  Needless to say, there hasn't been much time to be in my studio.  I am really stressed that I'm not making any new work!  Sadly, I may have to skip submitting to some of my favorite shows in 2014.  Hopefully there is light at the end of the tunnel and we should be moving forward before the new year!  I will be back with new work as soon as I can!  I still have a lot of new ideas waiting to be put to board!  Wish me luck and support your local artists!  Thanks for taking the time to read about my work!

"Catchin Some Rays" - Second Place Award - MPSGS

Entries Accepted in the
2011 Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society's Exhibit

We just got back from a ten day parent visit in Indiana on Tuesday.  While opening all the mail I was happy to find a nice notice saying all three of my entries were accepted in the Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society (MPSGS) of Washington D. C. for their upcoming show in November.  This was happy news indeed!  However, this morning when I started to post the news on this blog, I opened the MPSGS web page for their link and saw that they had the winners up on their website.  Imagine my surprise when I scrolled down and saw that my work, Catchin' Some Rays was awarded Second Place in the Birds and Animals Category!!  I was really doing the happy dance on this one!  This is such an honor for me!

Second Place Award - Birds and Animals

Catchin' Some Rays © Barbara A. Freeman
Acrylic on Gessobord  3 5/8" x 3 5/8"

Gold and Glory ©Barbara A. Freeman

Acrylic on Art Board 2" x 2"

Traveling the Slow Road © Barbara A. Freeman 

Acrylic on Masonite, 2 7/8" x 3 3/4"

My three works,  Catchin' Some Rays,  Gold and Glory and, Traveling the Slow Road will be in the Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society's 78th Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature.  The show is held in The Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, MD.  They are open, Weekdays 10-4 • Wed. 10-9 • Sat. 10-3 (closed Sun. & holidays).  The Exhibition Opening is Sunday, November 20th, 2011, 12:30 to 2:30.  The show runs November 21st through December 30th 2011.  If you are in the area, this is a beautiful venue and a show not to miss.  These tiny treasures make a great holiday gift!

I know I have been quiet here, mostly due to traveling and also getting work completed and then shipped or delivered for the autumn and winter shows.  I have been working on more in the wood nymph series, (inspired by the wood nymph butterfly) two in graphite/mixed media and one acrylic painting.  All three will be small works, 6" x 6",  not miniature, so I'll have three new works to show soon!  I am so happy to be back working in my studio!  As always, thanks for taking the time to read about my work, and Happy Autumn!

Latest Miniature Art, and Now an Associate Member of MPSGS!

The Time Thief, © Barbara A. Freeman
Graphite and Mixed Media on Film, 2 3/4" x 3 3/4"

This is my latest miniature work, just finished the final fixative coat on it yesterday. Now, it's ready for scanning, then finding or cutting a mat! As you can see, I am still on my crow and clock theme here. Thanks to the Arts Council of Snohomish County for the Of Clocks and Crows Exhibit that I did my work, Finding Time for, I have now done four works with a crow in them. Oh, I forgot, there is a crow in both of my Buddha paintings, but I did those two before the Clocks and Crows show. Still, I love getting inspired with a subject and then having it repeat in more work. It creates a series and allows me to further explore that subject.

This one, still untitled, is done on * Dura-lar Matte film with colored pencil on the underside for the watch and the interior of the tree. The chain and a bit of highlight on the eye and watch were done with acrylic, with a tiny bit of gold. *Check out the review I did on Dura-lar Matte film on the link at Dick Blick.

I love drawing trees, they have so much character and great texture. Just after I completed this, I knew I had to move on, (deadlines, deadlines, deadlines,) and I am now working on a silverpoint miniature continuing the tree with all it's mystery theme. This one though has a rabbit featured in it! Hopefully it will be a successful piece. Silverpoint does not allow you to erase, so you really have to know where you want to put your marks and have them work! So far, it's going well. I'll keep you posted.

More wonderful news... I have been invited to become an Associate Member of the Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society of Washington D.C.! (MPSGS) This is the oldest Miniature Art Society in the US (founded in 1931) and is the second oldest in the world! The Royal Society of Miniature Painter, Sculptors and Graver in London, England is the oldest. The membership is by invitation only and decided by a vote of the other members. To be eligible, you have to have exhibited in three annual Society shows or have been awarded a first, second, or third prize at any Society exhibition. I am so honored!

As always, thank you for taking the time to look at my work and read my blog.

2009 MPSGS Honorable Mention Award!

I've just received my letter from the Miniature Painters, Sculptors & Gravers Society (MPSGS), and I am so excited to have been given an Honorable Mention for my work Hay Bales in the landscape category in their 76th Annual International Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature!! yippie!!

It was selected from the 724 works in the exhibition. I am thrilled! That show opens on November 23rd through January 2, 2010, with an awards ceremony Sunday, November 22. I sure wish I could be there. Sigh...

Congratulations to all my online miniature artist friends who's work has also been awarded!