Who knew that the great oil portratist Sargent was also a master of the charcoal sketch portrait. I recently discovered a new book, “John Singer Sargent: The Charcoal Portraits”, and since I’ve joined the Friday night live modeling sessions with the Pretentious Cleveland Portrait Artists, my work has new inspiration.
Next, look for a new segment on this website where I’ll post both live and studio portraits from my escapades with the PCPA. Look for charcoal, watercolor and oil portraits and see if you find any influence from Sargent himself.
Painting/ drawing/ sketching from a live model is daunting…especially for an artist like me who work mostly in the studio. But there is no better training to keep the eye sharp and the brush loose. To join in by video weekly visit: https://thetremonster.org/the-pretentious-cleveland-portrait-artists-celebrate-20-years/
More examples of me facing the challenge of painting portraits from life are on the way….
Bill Forester in his home studioBill at his Facing Forward GalleryTwo Bills for the price of oneAlways a good time at Stone MadDays end pick-me-up
A Thursday Tradition at Facing Forward Gallery
Every Thursday from 11 AM to 4 PM, Bill Forester and I paint and connect at his art studio and gallery, Facing Forward Gallery, an artist’s atelier located on the second floor of 78th Street Studios, right next to Blank Canvas Theater. It’s an inviting, intimate space where you’re welcome to join us—bring your paints, browse our artwork, or just stop by for a visit. And if you feel generous, Bill enjoys a latte. I’ll take a decaf.
I highly recommend artists step out of their own studios now and then. Break the routine. Engage with another artist’s space, ideas, and creative energy. Working beyond familiar surroundings—both spiritually and geographically—can open up new perspectives. Here, I experiment with abstract commissions and explore loose ideas that require a freer hand.
Bill’s art studio and gallery is cozy yet expansive in creative spirit. The walls are covered salon-style with paintings, while Fred Gearhart’s sculpturesclaim the rest of the space. But what makes Facing Forward Gallery truly special is Bill himself. His studio is a testament to resilience—his personal legacy of artwork reflects his journey of survival and renewal after a life-altering stroke a decade ago. The art studio and gallery’s name is a daily reminder that every new day is a gift.
Our Thursdays don’t end when the brushes are put down. We cap off the day at Stone Mad, a West Side pub known for its Irish coffee, giant pretzels, and great conversation—the perfect way to reflect, unwind, and recharge for the next creative session.
To check out some of the paintings you may find at Facing Forward, look here. There are always more on the easel at Bill’s art studio and gallery- so keep checking back. Or for more about Portrait Artist Rob Hartshorn look here.
