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Holiday Giving

Brendan Coudal — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 16:45:54 +0000

Every year at this time my wife and I consider what to give to each other, our friends & our families. It's always weird because we already feel so grateful for everything we have and don't really NEED anything besides our health, the roof over our heads, good food in the refrigerator, and each other. This year we're mostly giving charitable donations to others who don't have it as good as we do, but I'm sure we'll still manage to find a little something that brings a smile to the other. I feel so blessed. . .

"Reflections on Ringling"

Brendan Coudal — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 15:24:46 +0000

I, along with fellow artists from Art Uptown Gallery in Sarasota, have been working on new pieces to celebrate the rich history of the Ringling Museum (and John Ringling himself). Stop by the Gallery October 14, 6-9 pm for a reception and to see this eclectic mix of media. Should be fun to see what artists are compelled to create from such a broad inspirational canvas. . .

artuptown.com

How Can You Lose 5 lbs. in a Week?

Brendan Coudal — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 21:32:03 +0000

Build your own deck, that's how. This summer I put my paint brushes down in order to work as general contractor (and laborer. . .) on my new house deck. Didn't think it would be as time consuming as it has been, but it will be well wrth it in the end. Between the Florida humidity and hard work, I'm well on my way to my goal of losing15 lbs this summer!

Inspired Painting

Brendan Coudal — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 23:00:12 +0000

Working on several small paintings of scenes from the Ringling Museum in Sarasota -- for a show at Art Uptown Gallery in October. The theme is 'Reflections on Ringling'. Subject matter at this beautiful, historic museum is vast, but I chose a few scenes of women viewing paintings within the museum -- sort of like paintings within paintings. It's fun to change venues & do something relatively 'contemporary' vs. my typical mid-century style.

Changes are amongst us. . .

Brendan Coudal — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 17:11:10 +0000

Last week my wife went back to her professional career, leaving me to my own devices with my art business. . .for several years she has been my right hand w/all my business affairs, administration and planning. She'll still help with art shows and things to keep me on track, but it's a culture shock! At first I was a little freaked out, but have come to the realization that it's a really good thing for us both. I've embraced the changes and even get excited about getting dinner ready at the end of the day. Life really is about change - it's healthy for all involved. Embrace it!

The Business of Art

Brendan Coudal — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:59:23 +0000

Recently I learned someone used my artwork to create a product & sell it in the marketplace, which was producing profits until I found out about it. The issue has been bugging me, because it's not the first time it has happened. I fully recognize that in our digital world, information is readily available. It must be tempting to know that with the simple click of a mouse an image can be captured and used however you wish. I'm pleased to know that someone liked my artwork, but there's a line drawn when that work is reproduced & sold without my permission. I register my paintings with the US Copyright Office, and I do that at additional expense to ensure that my rights (and my blood, sweat and tears) are protected.

So people, I implore you not to use my artwork without permission. . .When you do you're taking revenue away from me (and food off my table), and I am trying desperately to dispel that description of the "starving artist"!

Sea Life

Brendan Coudal — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:54:51 +0000

Inspired by recent fishing trips, I painted this sweet little turtle (8X8 oil on board). This morning my wife and I even saw a Loggerhead turtle popping his head up as we idled by on our boat in search of Tarpon. Such a neat thing to spot a sea creature checking out what's going on at the surface! It's currently in my studio until I decide which gallery to hang it in (but if you love it, call me!).

Vintage is In

Brendan Coudal — Tue, 24 May 2011 19:55:47 +0000

I learned this week that an original nude painting titled 'Gay Nymph' by Gil Elvgren was recently purchased at auction for over $286,000. As many of you know, Elvgren is one of my major influences from the mid-century era and I continue to be amazed at the beauty and genius of his paintings. This sale solidifies for me the current interest in retro-style design and is a compelling argument for me to continue down this road. Now, I'm not saying I'll start painting nudes any time soon (!), but I still love this style and will continue with it as long as it's fun! To learn more about Elvgren check out: www.gilelvgren.com

Tarpon!

Brendan Coudal — Tue, 24 May 2011 18:05:37 +0000

The fish are here! Nicole and I fished last week and I got two to the boat w/little effort -- it was textbook. Amazing day. This week has been a little more challenging 'cause they won't take my bait, but I love it anyway. These fish are amazing and beautiful and elusive! Life's good when you can put down your paintbrush and take a break to go fishing. . .

2011 Ladies Day Tarpon Tournament

Brendan Coudal — Tue, 10 May 2011 14:21:33 +0000

Nicole and I were at the Boca Grande Chamber's event signing all 3 of my limited edition posters. It was SO great to hear such positive feedback about my artwork! Some of the 2008 ("Boca Belle"), 2009 ("Round 'Em Up") and 2011 ("Boca Beauties") posters are still available at the Chamber, 941-964-0568.