Brett Deschene at Mirada Fine Art: After the Fog

Brett Deschene at Mirada Fine Art, After the Fog, Mixed Media/Encaustic, 30" x 48"

Using a practice dating back to 100 A.D., Atlanta-based artist Brett Deschene employs “encaustic painting” to his mixed media creations: adding numerous layers of pigmented wax to an image to build the surface and add dimension.  The intentional pitting, rolling and gentle undulations of these works give a stunning new depth to the American landscape.  Mirada Fine Art is proud to present Brett’s first exhibition in Colorado entitled ‘After the Fog.’  This exhibition is featured in the January edition of American Art Collector and will run through the month of January. 

Brett Deschene at Mirada Fine Art, Breaking Day, Mixed Media/Encaustic, 40" x 72"

Brett Deschene at Mirada Fine Art, Dusk Reflecting, Mixed Media/Encaustic, 48" x 48"

Brett Deschene at Mirada Fine Art, Native Fields, Mixed Media/Encaustic, 40" x 30"

Andrew Baird at Mirada Fine Art near Denver, Colorado

The addition of artist Andrew Baird to Mirada Fine Art unites the Best Artist in Colorado as declared by the editors of 5280 Magazine, and the Best Gallery as voted by the magazine’s readers. The works of fifth generation Coloradoan Baird perfectly embody the pairing of contemporary art with a Colorado feel.

Andrew Baird at Mirada Fine Art

At first glance, Andrew Baird's paintings seem to resemble the work of Jackson Pollock; but when the linear portraits begin to appear, the striking difference in the content becomes clear. The large, colorful portraits are created through light and dark values in a seemingly chaotic painting. Because the images are defined by value, Andrew Baird is free from predictable use of colors. Vibrant color combinations allow the subject to intriguingly appear and disappear, actively engaging the viewer.

Andrew Baird at Mirada Fine Art, Olivia, Acrylic on Canvas, 48" x 36"

His works are stunning at both a distance and when studied up close.  The process to create each piece is equally fascinating.  Baird uses a simple wooden ‘stir stick’ to drip acrylic paint onto a canvas on the floor, initially creating a rough sketch. The first few colors lock in the features of his subject.  He revisits the painting each day, adding new color and creating dimension with light and dark values.  “Each time, I drip paint to either lose the image or strengthen it,” states Baird.  “I build layers of color until the painting has the quality I’m striving for. Every painting takes on a fascinating life of its own.  I like it that people study each painting and think about its creation­—this is artwork that actively involves the viewer.”  Vibrant color combinations allow the subject to intriguingly ‘appear’ and ‘disappear’. The diversity of faces and the amazing and unusual way Baird portrays them draws us all in. 

Andrew Baird at Mirada Fine Art, Sheryl, Acrylic on Canvas, 45" x 53"

A true Colorado native, Andrew Baird lives and works in Evergreen.  He has worked as an artist and art educator for thirty years.  Mr. Baird earned both his B.A. and M.A. in Fine Arts from the University of Northern Colorado.  His striking paintings have been displayed in exhibits and galleries throughout the U.S. and internationally. Baird’s pieces are held in private and corporate collections alike, including those of Robert Redford and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.

Andrew Baird at Mirada Fine Art, We the People, Acrylic on Canvas, 39" x 66"

Andrew Baird at Mirada Fine Art, Katrina, Acrylic on Canvas, 48" x 36"

 

Andrew Baird at Mirada Fine Art, Heart, Acrylic on Canvas, 53" x 45"

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art: Opening Reception

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, 11.26.2011

We had an absolutely wonderful opening reception for Jill Shwaiko's 'Life's Balance' exhibition last Saturday night.  Jill's remarkable bronze sculptures and vibrant oil paintings will remain on display through December 8th.   In her newest works, Jill explores our interaction with the environment and the need to find a balance in our relationship with Mother Earth.  Though the images are whimsical, they profoundly speak to our most primitive nature, and unexpectedly touch our souls with a depth of thoughtfulness.  

If you missed the opening, definitely come on over and enjoy the exhibition while it is still hanging.

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, the gallery is ready for the opening of 'Life's Balance.'

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, A fantastic crowd gathers for 'Life's Balance.'

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, Jill discusses 'Learning the Balance' with an admirer.

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, Jill talks to some enthusiastic collectors of her work.

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, We had a fantastic crowd for her opening of 'Life's Balance.'

Steve Sonnen, owner of Mirada Fine Art, enjoys a moment with Jill Shwaiko and some wonderful clients.

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art.   Jill enjoys a moment with Hellen Han and Geoff Simpson, wonderful supporters of the gallery.

Steve & Jenni Sonnen, owners of Mirada Fine Art, enjoy a moment with Beverly and Cory Troxtell.

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, Jill talks with some wonderful collectors of her work.

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art: Life's Balance

This Thanksgiving weekend, take a break from the mall and come to Mirada Fine Art to meet acclaimed Santa Fe artist, Jill Shwaiko.

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, Trouble with the Birds, Oil on Canvas, 30" x 36"

Jill Shwaiko: Life's Balance

Artist Reception:  November 26, 2011, 6-9pm

Exhibition: November 26 - December 8

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, Into the Wind, Bronze Sculpture

Jill Shwaiko's study of ancient civilizations and their artwork is clearly reflected in her engaging bronze sculptures and bold paintings.  In her newest works, Jill explores our interaction with the environment and the need to find a balance in our relationship with Mother Earth.  Though the images are whimsical, they profoundly speak to our most primitive nature, and unexpectedly touch our souls with a depth of thoughtfulness.

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, Learning the Balance, Oil on Canvas, 48" x 32"

Don’t miss the opportunity to chat with Jill as she unveils her latest creations at Denver metro’s most unique art gallery.

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, Night Wind, Oil on Canvas, 34" x 60"

Jill Shwaiko at Mirada Fine Art, Lessons of the Balance, Bronze Sculpture

MIrada Art Talk: The Yearling

Every once in a while, we like to talk about a public work of art in Denver, and get the opinions of our artists and our resident 'blog dogs.'  This time we thought we'd take on that huge red chair with the tiny horse in front of the Denver Public Library.  It's called 'The Yearling' and it was created by artist Donald Lipsky.

The Yearling, by Donald Lipsky

“The Yearling” was originally commissioned for an elementary school in upper Manhattan. Says Lipski about this work, “I wanted to give kids something that would really be a cause for wonder.” When the school district asked Lipski to omit the horse, he refused, saying, “It just lost all its magic.” The sculpture spent 1997 in New York City’s Central Park before traveling to Denver in 1998 for permanent installation. “If it makes people stop and feel something they haven’t felt before, I’m happy,” commented the artist, shortly before “The Yearling” was moved. 

And now for the opinions of the Mirada Art Blog panel:

Christian Dore, Artist at Mirada Fine Art

Artist Christian Dore

The childlike chair and its bold red really bounces against it's environment and when reading that it is actually a life size pinto pony on top it seems to me that this piece makes you really look at its perspective and scale. I really like it when sculptures mess with sizes of shapes and objects and invite you to look at something that may seem, at first, out of place. The more I look at this the more it is drawing me in, very interesting.

Steve Sonnen, Owner of Mirada Fine Art

Gallery Owner Steve Sonnen

I've walked by this piece so many times over the years, and to be honest, I don't know if I've ever stopped to really look at it.  Inherently I think that says quite a bit about my feelings regarding this sculpture.  It's a big chair with a horse on it...doesn't really elicit much more from me and I think public art should.  I do think it's pretty funny that the people who commissioned the piece wanted to get rid of the horse.  Yikes...then you'd have a big chair!  Might work in High Point, North Carolina.

Linus, official Mirada 'Blog Dog'

Linus, Mirada Blog Dog

I find the simplicity and whimsy of this sculpture to be the genious of the piece.  Do you really need more?  Did Rodin's 'Thinker' need any more?  Did the Venus de Milo need any....hey wait a minute...I'm still wearing this ridiculous beret!!!!  This is an outrage!  I complained on my last post about this preposterous headgear, but apparently as long as I'm part of the blogosphere, I'm doomed to perpetuate this cliche of an artist!!!  I'm giving my thought-provoking analysis of this remarkable public sculpture and some geek with a copy of Photoshop and far too much time on his hands INSISTS THAT I WEAR A STINKING BERET!!!!!!!!!!  I WILL NOT BE PART OF THIS FARCE!!!!

Augie, official Mirada 'Blog Dog'

Augie, Mirada Blog Dog

I kinda like the hat. 










What do you think of Donald Lipsky's 'The Yearling'? 

Tim Howe at Mirada Fine Art, near Denver, Colorado

We are absolutely thrilled to present Tim Howe to Colorado!

Tim Howe at Mirada Fine Art, near Denver, CO

Born in a country where awesome beauty abounds, Tim Howe was surrounded by the vastness and overwhelming majesty of New Zealand’s landscape. It is here where he was first inspired to express nature’s limitless splendor through his art.  Howe graduated from the Wellington School of Design, in Wellington, New Zealand, studying a variety of disciplines including fine art, illustration, graphic design, photography and printmaking.  After graduation, Howe immigrated to the United States and established his design studio in San Diego, CA.  However, after traveling throughout the United States and Europe it became apparent that in order to capture the beauty he experienced, then his love of nature and art were to become irrevocably intertwined.

Tim Howe at Mirada Fine Art, Mosaic of Autumn, Oil on Canvas, 20" x 48"

Howe’s current works, a contemporary interpretation of landscapes, incorporate a dramatic use of color and texturing while capturing his subject matter with a unique contemporary flair.  His landscapes seem to exist outside the frame and stretch beyond the canvas. With vivid accents and lively vigorous brushstrokes Howe continues his search for new images of familiar subjects. 

Tim Howe at Mirada Fine Art, Final Days of Autumn, Oil on Canvas, 30" x 60"

“As a landscape artist, I am naturally inspired to paint by what I see in nature. Since I come from a strong graphic design background, I tend to draw upon this experience in creating my paintings. I utilize the disciplines of both impressionism and abstraction.” The result is a varied body of work that skillfully blends nature between the two seemingly opposing viewpoints.

Tim Howe at Mirada Fine Art, Autumn Revelry, Oil on Canvas, 24" x 48"

“I’m predisposed to thinking of images in terms as either positive or negative shapes, while isolating the most important colors.  I see this as a more graphic and more contemporary way of painting. I find myself using nature’s elements, along with its’ shapes and images, and subsequently interpreting them on canvas in a bolder, more graphic way…at times utilizing exaggerated forms and colors for maximum effect.”

Tim Howe at Mirada Fine Art, Rhapsody of Spring, Oil on Canvas, 36" x 48"

Howe is an ambitious painter who will never limit his subject matter, his techniques, nor his stylistic development. This philosophy, along with his aesthetic spirit, will always allow him to bring fresh interpretations and new energies to his work.

Tim Howe at Mirada Fine Art, First Snow of Winter, Oil on Canvas, 36" x 48"

 We hope you'll stop by and check out Tim's work in person!

Tim Howe at Mirada Fine Art, Hues of Autumn, Oil on Canvas, 30" x 48"

First Snow of the Season at Mirada Fine Art

Last night, we had the first significant snow of the season and it's beautiful here at Mirada Fine Art!  Here are a few photos of the scene here today.  As you can see, one of our large neighbors was just munching away on a tree about 20 feet from the gallery as we dug ourselves out of the snow.  He seemed particularly fond of Allen Wynn's sculptures.

Mirada Fine Art, 10.26.2011, First Snow of the Season

Mirada Fine Art's neighbor hangs out about 20 feet from the gallery while we shovel.

Allen Wynn's 'Cyclist' won't be slowed by a little snow.

John Ferguson's 'Rejection' is even more dramatic in the snow.

Allen Wynn's sculptures are amazing any time...but look particularly great today in the snow.

Allen Wynn's 'Flying Charlie' won't let a little snow storm slow him down.

Mark Yearwood at Mirada Fine Art

Mark Yearwood at Mirada Fine Art, Ventanas, Acrylic on Canvas, 36" x 48"

We're absolutely thrilled to introduce a new artist to Mirada Fine Art: Mark Yearwood from Oklahoma. Mark's stunning abstract pieces combine linear design with earthy influences. Vivid texture and designs are structured to convey the connection between nature and man-made items. Dimension is then created using a palette knife and other paint-application tools. Mark believes abstract art requires a viewer to ask themselves,"What am I feeling?," and enjoys being a part of that interactive experience.  Enjoy some of the beautiful new pieces we have by Mark here at Mirada:

Mark Yearwood at Mirada Fine Art, Antico, Acrylic on Canvas, 30" x 30"

Mark Yearwood at Mirada Fine Art, Tierra Roja, Acrylic on Canvas, 36" x 48"

Mark Yearwood at Mirada Fine Art, Arrival, Acrylic on Canvas, 24" x 24"

Mark Yearwood at Mirada Fine Art, Cambios, Acrylic on Canvas, 20" x 30"

Mark Yearwood at Mirada Fine Art, Discovery, Acrylic on Canvas, 24" x 24"

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art: Opening Reception 10.14.2011

We had a phenomenal opening reception on Friday night, October 14th of 'Geometry of the Rockies:' the new exhibition featuring the contemporary landscapes of Deladier Almeida.  All of the paintings of this exhibition are inspired by Deladier's time flying over the Colorado Rockies and the front range in a low-flying airplane last June.  Areas such as Rocky Mountain National Park, the flatirons, and Roxborough park are highlighted in this amazing body of work.  Following are some photos from the reception.  If you weren't able to attend, the exhibition will still be on display through November 6th.

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art, 10.14.2011

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art, Opening Reception of 'Geometry of the Rockies'

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art, Patrons savor 'Chromatic Treadings'

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art, Patrons enjoying Deladier's newest works.

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art, Poetic Fractures, Oil on Linen, 40" x 72"

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art: Deladier explains his technique.

Great crowd for the opening night of Deladier Almeida's 'Geometry of the Rockies.'

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art.

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art, 'Geometry of the Rockies' opening reception.

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art, Autopunctuation, Oil on Canvas, 12" x 24"

Deladier Almeida at Mirada Fine Art, Calligraphy of Gravity, Oil on Linen, 36" x 24"