First a Hobby … Then a Bridge
What Started as a Hobby Continues as a Bridge
By Charles David Kelley
PHILOMATH, Oregon – I painted my first painting in 2004. This little video shows the process. I got hooked on painting that day and have since tried to make a new painting every week. I haven’t always succeeded, but I painted more than 400. Special thanks to Aleksejs Naumovs, former Rector of the Latvian Academy of Art. He was my first teacher. We have since painted together many times.
And I must extend special thanks to Kaspars Zarins, also a professor at the Art Academy, and my friend and painting mentor for many years.
When I decided to learn to paint, it was for personal joy and expression. I had no idea that the creation of art wields such great powers of personal healing and restoration. I was surprised at how my pulse and breathing slowed and how I lost track of time. These are the healing things that happen when we go on restorative vacations.
I also did not know how my new hobby would lead to profound conversations and numerous meaningful friendships, in several countries. Five years ago, the organization I lead, Bridge Builders International, began to bring Latvian and Estonian artists together every summer for purposes higher than their art.
Finally, I continue to see how every new opportunity not only fulfills the purposes of an event or activity, it opens doors for more important and influential interactions not only with artists, but also art catalysts and thought leaders.
Painting is so much more than dabbing color on canvas. Little did I know back in 2004 when I painted my first painting that this interest would open so many doors and influence so many people.
Again, have fun watching this video.
Every Painting has a Story
PHILOMATH, Oregon – Picasso once said, “Painting is just another way of keeping a diary.” If he were alive today he would keep a website.
The idea of ‘diary-keeping’ is one reason I have created this site. Every painting has a story. They remind me of the times, places, people, thoughts and emotions I experienced when the pictures were created.
I have played the piano since 1960 and through the years I have learned to play and love different genres of music. I love various styles of playing, depending on my frame of mind or mood.
I approach painting the same way. I love perusing great art museums where I am inspired by amazing masters. I love to pour over my numerous illustrated books about the life and works of about 100 artists. These artists continue to influence my style prompting me to try new things. Hence, my paintings do not all feel the same. I like that.
Most of the paintings displayed here are for sale. But many already live in their new private collections in Europe and the US. I include them because they are still important to me, and they trace my journey as a painter. Kind of like a diary.
Announcing My New Website
HELSINKI, Finland – I am pleased to announce that I am finally ready to reveal my new artist’s website. Apart from the professional help of Maris Prindulis I couldn’t have done it. He helped me think through my purpose, strategy, design and a thousand other relevant matters.
Having started at age 50, I have been painting for about 13 years. Over the years, as all artists must do, I have a developed a certain “voice” that characterizes my work.
I adore color – vibrant color. It simply speaks to me…and, perhaps, through me. I have noticed that blue is my favorite color. I’ve always thought so, but after 400 paintings, any trace of doubt has been removed. I love all kinds of blues including turquoise and dark green blue and the deepest of blues that live in shadows.
I’m a “Big Picture” kind of guy. I know details are important but when I focus on them the overall impact is diminished or even destroyed. This doesn’t only apply to my art, but to many areas of my life. Of course, I can’t simply ignore them and survive!
I paint paintings, not objects or vistas; my paintings never look like photographs. Before I began to study painting I believed that paintings were good or bad based on how closely they could be compared to a photo. But I’ve since learned that photos can capture a certain concrete kind of reality. My job is to capture feeling and attitude while considering that same object.
I never know if a painting is going to be successful. For that matter, who determines whether or not it is successful? Through the years some pieces that I thought were losers sold quickly, while others remain ignored year after year. Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but so is impact.
I love painting skylines. I supposed this love began when I first painted Riga’s skyline with Latvian master, Aleksejs Naumovs. I watched and imitated him. And I loved the result. So, I made another and gave it to my mother, and more and gave them to friends. Then people began to buy them and now, whenever I paint a Riga skyline it is snatched up quickly.
This website shows sections of skylines, of Latvia, Europe and America. I hope you enjoy. Perhaps you would like me to paint the skyline of where you live?
This site welcomes you into a variety of colorful paintings, including florals which I love painting, and still life works, which actually also can communicate life and vibrancy.
Perhaps you need a specific painting for a specific place, like your office, conference room, living room or bedroom. Check out my Imagine section. And if you already have one of my pieces in one of your rooms, send me a photo of it on your wall and I will feature it in this section. Make sure to include yourself!
So, welcome to my artist site. Pour a cup of coffee. Have a seat, peruse and enjoy. And, don’t hesitate to contact me.