Department of Energy Official Portrait Unveiled

I had the pleasure of painting former Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham for the Department of Energy. His official portrait unveiling took place last week in Washington D.C. Several current and past administration officials were present as well as many of his friends and family. 

For more photos click here:

http://www.michaelshaneneal.com/Abraham_Unveiling.shtml

Interview with Alyson Stanfield

INSIGHTS are a series of conversations with artists taking place on select Thursday evenings at 8 p.m. ET, 7 p.m. CT, 6 p.m. MT, and 5 p.m. PT. Brought to you by Alyson Stanfield and artbizcoach.com, find out how artists build their careers, the bumps they encountered along the road, the turning points, and what makes them tick.

On November 20, 2008 at 8pm ET, Alyson will speak with me about how I started my portrait career, how I promote my work, workshops, and more!

For more information on how to participate, go to: artbizcoach.com/insights/

Justice O'Connor Portrait Unveiled

I had the honor and pleasure to unveil my portrait of retired US Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor at the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday, Spetember 12, 2008. Never have I known a more warm, gracious, and engaging person. I am thrilled to have had the privilege of getting to know her both in person and in paint.

For more on the unveiling click here:
http://www.law.asu.edu/?id=1421

Quick & Easy Model Stand

Looking for a quick and easy model stand? Check this out!!!!! I think I got this from my friend Dawn Whitelaw years ago when I was looking for a simple solution for my workshops. Certainly it can be used in your studio as well. Simply purchase a 4’x8’ sheet of 3/4” ply wood at your local hardware store (Home Depot will cut it in half for free!). Purchase four 5 gallon empty paint buckets from your local paint store. Place them on the floor, put the board on top and you have an instant model stand! Storage is easy too. Stack the buckets in the corner and slide the board up against the wall. A great solution that will serve any artist well.

Great Book on Anders Zorn

I just returned from a fun trip to Kimberly, Wisconsin where I taught a workshop at the Richeson School of Art. It was a great experience. The facilities were terrific and the students could not have been more passionate or excited about growing as artists.

I learned many things, but one discovery in particular was a great new book from China on Anders Zorn. Jim Hemmpel brought in several great books one day for all of us to enjoy including this wonderful volume on Zorn. I ordered one that day and just received mine. I recommend it to anyone who loves Zorn's work. Regrettably, I can't read Chinese, but the reproductions are terrific!

You can order one through Barn Site Gallery by clicking here. Enjoy!

Summer Workshop in June

Jack Richeson School of Art
Portrait Class
Kimberly, Wisconsin
June 23-27,2008

I spoke with my friend and mentor Ray Kinstler after he returned from teaching a week long workshop at the Richeson School last year. He was excited about his experience and praised both the quality of the school and the directors.

When they phoned to ask if I would teach a class there this summer, I could not say no! Although I travel the country for portrait commissions, I rarely travel to teach. I am excited about the class and so looking forward to my week in Wisconsin.

During the workshop, we will be painting from live models in a spacious studio. I will be giving one-on-one instruction, demonstrations, and lectures throughout the week. Everyone will receive a nearly 200 page workbook I have written to compliment the week's studies. The class will kick off on Sunday night with a reception honoring the 2008 Figure Portrait Competition. The competition winners will be announced that evening.

If you are interested in attending, contact:

Art School Director, Terry Stanley
Email: artschool@richesonart.com
Richeson School of Art
PO Box 160
Kimberly, WI 54136-0160
920.738.0744

Step 5

Continued development... A great number of brushes now worn out!