Lunchtime Art Tour

During lunch today, I finally had the chance to see the ‘Sargent and the Sea’ exhibit at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. I adore Sargent as an artist, so it was a real treat to see some of his early works – watercolors and drawings when the artist was between 18-22 years old.

It was interesting to see how much his style had changed. Even though the exhibit focused more on his maritime artistry, there were a few rough portraits speckled around the tour. Sargent’s portraits were relatively primitive in his early years. His models faces were either quick, vague sketches, or completely blurred and implied. Sargent focused more on the model’s pose, stance, and contours.

One thing I always admire about Sargent’s drawings are that, they are seemingly simple. They consist largely of some contour drawing, and lot’s of simplified lines. But all these elements put together really create an extraordinary composition. It’s so much fun looking at his pieces up close. His line strokes are so delicate and calm.

Unfortunately, the museum wouldn’t allow photos of the ‘Sargent and the Sea’ exhibit, but they did allow us to photograph some of the Corcoran’s permanent Sargent collection…which oddly enough consists of my favorite drawing by the artist, “Olimpio Fausco” (photo below).

At the very end of the tour, the museum set up a still life, surrounded by benches with sketchpads and pencils. This interactive part of the tour allowed the visitor to freely sketch the still life. I figured, I really couldn’t call myself an artist unless I participated. So, I drew a rendition of a portion of the still life (which you will have to wait and see on Corcoran’s site). The museum plans on scanning in each visitor’s drawing, and posting them up on their site. I’ll post a link once it’s available. Believe me, it’s nothing fancy – just a quick sketch with minimal shading.

Something else I picked up from this tour…my new slogan from John Singer Sargent:
“Sketch everything and keep your curiosity fresh”

And how true this is, for any artist. Sargent had countless sketchbooks. One caption on the tour stated he had about 13 completed sketchbooks by age 18 – full to the brim with completed works, studies, and random renderings. I’ve made a promise to myself to try and keep a sketchbook with me at all times. I really miss the days when I used to sketch vs. solely working on the computer. In some ways, graphic design can really dull raw artistry - if you let it.

(Sargent - Olimpio Fausco)

(Sargent - Seated Woman drawing)

(Still life, which visitors could sketch from)

More Corcoran Events: Christian Siriano

Christian Siriano of Project Runway fame will be holding a seminar/lecture at the Corcoran Gallery of Art on Tuesday November 3rd at 7pm.
Get your tickets fast - as this is sure to sell out. Christian was one of my favorite PR winners, and it would be such a bonus if I hear him call someone a 'hot tranny mess". Hilarious!

Hope to see you there!

I tell you - the Corcoran should really give me an honorary membership for all my online promos. =)

Meet Tim Gunn this Saturday at Tyson's Galleria!

I just received an invitation from Lucky Brand jeans to meet Tim Gunn of Project Runway fame, this Saturday (Sept. 19th) at Tyson's Galleria in Tyson's Virginia! Tim will be hosting a Fall 2009 Fashion show featuring Lucky Brand jeans, followed by a cocktail reception.

To RSVP call 202-625-8370. Spaces are limited.

The event starts at 1pm in the Center Court.

I'm only passing along this info because, sadly, I won't be able to make it. If you go, take plenty of photos. I adore Tim Gunn, especially because he's a Corcoran Gallery of Art alum.

Sargent and the Sea at the Corcoran Gallery of Art

Once again, the Corcoran is featuring a phenomenal exhibit in honor of my all time favorite artist: John Singer Sargent. The exhibit ‘Sargent and the Sea’ starts September 12, 2009 and runs through January 3, 2010. This must see exhibit features more than 80 paintings, watercolors, and drawings from the early career of American artist John Singer Sargent. Sargent is known most notably for his portraiture, but his depictions of seascapes and coastal scenes are breathtaking as well.

If you’re in the DC area, this is a must see show for art enthusiasts. I plan on attending the exhibit next Monday around lunchtime (since I work only 2 blocks from the gallery).

Enjoy!

Lou Lou Boutique (Dupont Circle)

On nice days like today, you’ll often find me strolling through Dupont Circle doing a little window shopping at all the cute boutiques.

Today I stumbled upon a shop called “Lou Lou”. Considering all my jaunts through Dupont, I can’t believe I never noticed this place before. Lou Lou offers tons of a reasonably priced earrings, scarves, hats, handbags, headbands and other accessories. All items feature an eclectic flare, and no doubt many items are one of a kind pieces. I was drooling over all the unique silver earrings with various semi-precious jewels and stones. One could also easily get lost in the plethora of brilliantly colored leather handbags. The staff was friendly, and helpful – and had a wealth of knowledge about their merchandise. I’ll definitely be visiting this spot more often – especially for some unique fall scarves. This is a real retail ‘gem’ for visitors and locals.

Neighborhood: Dupont Circle
1601 Connecticut Ave NW
(between N Q St & N Hillyer Pl)
Washington, DC 20009