Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
New Video On Demand
I am happy to present a new video on demand on Vimeo. This time it`s a boat and reflections. Quite simple but need some tips to be painted. Check it on Vimeo!
https://vimeo.com/ondemand/sterkhovreflections/190563396
https://vimeo.com/ondemand/sterkhovreflections/190563396
Konstantin Sterkhov. Quiet Dawn. 26x36 cm. 2016
Paint with me!
New Workshop with David Poxon
Check a new workshop with David Poxon. You can read his interview on my blog or in my book "Masters Of Watercolor. From classic to contemporary art"
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Some Personal Thailand Impressions
There was a great event organized by La Fe in Thailand. Actually that was 2 events. One exhibition of IWS Thailand in Huahin and Masters Exhibition in Bangkok. I spent only 4 days and the day when I came was the last day in Huahin. So I missed painting on location and many other moments but still there is something to share... Part I. Maybe there will be Part II...
Prafull Sawant (India), Selma Todorova (Bulgaria), Joe f. Dowden (UK), K. Sterkhov (Russia)
Liang Gang (China) and K. Sterkhov (Russia)
Among participants are La Fe (Thailand), Rajesh Sawant (India), Igor Sava (Italy) and myself
In front right - Ali Abbas (Pakistan) and myself
Igor Sava (Italy), myself, Ali Abbas (Pakistan)
Participants of the Master`s exhibition in Bangkok
Jansen Chow (Malaysia), Joe Dowden (UK) and myself
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
New Video On-demand
Dear reader,
I am happy to introduce my new video on-demand in series "Northern Summer. Island Life"
Both videos are over 30 minutes each and contain my comments on the process and nice original music. You will see which paints and brushes I use. Try to paint together with me in real time!
Every video has a trailer that can help you to consider to purchase the full version.
Welcome to download the full version!
I am happy to introduce my new video on-demand in series "Northern Summer. Island Life"
Both videos are over 30 minutes each and contain my comments on the process and nice original music. You will see which paints and brushes I use. Try to paint together with me in real time!
Every video has a trailer that can help you to consider to purchase the full version.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Island Life. Noon Nap. 27x37 cm. 2016
Konstantin Sterkhov. Island Life. Cool Summer. 27x37 cm. 2016
Welcome to download the full version!
Secrets of Russian Masters in 5 days
Madeline Island, USA
5 day Workshop - 3rd week of June, 2017
Madeline Island School of the Arts (MISA) is ranked among
the top five art and craft schools in the country. The school is located
on beautiful Madeline Island, the largest of the 22 Apostle Islands in Lake
Superior.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Harbor. 2015
During this five day workshop, you will learn how to use the Alla
Prima approach to create expressive works in watercolor. Konstantin will
share his knowledge of this classic approach while utilizing contemporary
techniques including wet-on-wet, dry brush, glazing, splashing, masking, and
many others. Students will also learn how to create convincing works without
needing advanced drawing skills.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Hope For Future. 2015
The class schedule will include 2-3 painting demonstrations
per day and opportunities to paint a variety of subjects. Students will learn
distinct approaches for florals, landscapes, seascapes, interiors and
portraits. This class will be mainly studio based with some opportunities to
paint en Plein Air throughout the week, using Madeline Island’s amazing landscapes
and seascapes as inspiration.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Magnolia. 2015
Students can choose to bring two or three of their own
paintings for personal critique, or specific objects of interest to receive
feedback on the right approach to use, and mistakes to avoid when painting the
chosen subject matter. Class will conclude with a critique exhibition of
student and teacher’s works at week’s end.
Thursday, September 1, 2016
Polina Egorushkina - Interview
Artist and illustrator.
Lives and works in Moscow.
Winner of the Prize Excellence Award ( "For excellence") at the International Biennial of watercolor in Shenzhen (China) and Redfern Gallery Prize at the competition of the Royal Society of watercolor (London). Grand Prix "The prospect of watercolors" at the international exhibition "Masters of watercolors - 2015".
The diploma of the first degree at the All-Russian contest "Book Art. Traditions and search" for the artistic design of the book by Jules Verne's "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea."
Has watercolor always been your technique?
Yes, I always used watercolor, but a long time, the process was different. I worked on the book illustrations. It was a very painstaking graphic sheets. Now I paint completely free of meticulous detail things.
How did you switch to a large format?
I didn`t. Even my original illustrations were always several times larger than in the a book.
Are your paintings united in series by some idea?
Yes. There is an idea that emerges and that just does not fit in one painting work, this is how a series emerges.
What appears at first - an idea or a formal desision? Does it happen that some abstract design idea gives a theme and a name to a series?
No, it does not happen, the idea always in mind before you start. For me, all attempts to act in reverse order look like something artificial.
What is the percentage of spontaneity and planning when working on the painting?
A huge percentage of spontaneity. That's all that brings joy! I always work on wet paper without a pencil draft, so that nothing paralyzed the process. A thought can always wag and the whole idea can change, at this point you do not want to see on paper any limiting sketch.
How do you feel about the finished work? Do you feel any connection with them?
Do you have limits or regulations in working with watercolors?
Definitely no prohibitions. No regulations, too... The only thing - I usually make no amendments, when a layer of paint has dried. I proceed quickly.
Do you use flat or round brushes?
Any brushes.
Do you see the works of other artists?
Rarely.
What did you give the reward in the Shenzhen Biennale?
Great joy and a trip to China.
Your advice for beginners watercolors.
Be brave and sincere in your work.
Lives and works in Moscow.
Winner of the Prize Excellence Award ( "For excellence") at the International Biennial of watercolor in Shenzhen (China) and Redfern Gallery Prize at the competition of the Royal Society of watercolor (London). Grand Prix "The prospect of watercolors" at the international exhibition "Masters of watercolors - 2015".
The diploma of the first degree at the All-Russian contest "Book Art. Traditions and search" for the artistic design of the book by Jules Verne's "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea."
Polina Egorushkina
Has watercolor always been your technique?
Yes, I always used watercolor, but a long time, the process was different. I worked on the book illustrations. It was a very painstaking graphic sheets. Now I paint completely free of meticulous detail things.
How did you switch to a large format?
I didn`t. Even my original illustrations were always several times larger than in the a book.
Polina Egorushkina. Sleep! 80x100 cm 2015
Are your paintings united in series by some idea?
Yes. There is an idea that emerges and that just does not fit in one painting work, this is how a series emerges.
What appears at first - an idea or a formal desision? Does it happen that some abstract design idea gives a theme and a name to a series?
No, it does not happen, the idea always in mind before you start. For me, all attempts to act in reverse order look like something artificial.
Polina Egorushkina. Boulevards. 80x100 cm 2014
What is the percentage of spontaneity and planning when working on the painting?
A huge percentage of spontaneity. That's all that brings joy! I always work on wet paper without a pencil draft, so that nothing paralyzed the process. A thought can always wag and the whole idea can change, at this point you do not want to see on paper any limiting sketch.
How do you feel about the finished work? Do you feel any connection with them?
Of course. They are all very dear to me. I remember what mood I had in each work, what were troubles at work. And I like to see how it all came together in the end.
Polina Egorushkina. Empty. 80x100 cm 2015
Do you have limits or regulations in working with watercolors?
Definitely no prohibitions. No regulations, too... The only thing - I usually make no amendments, when a layer of paint has dried. I proceed quickly.
On what paper do you work?
Arches, Canson
Arches, Canson
Do you use flat or round brushes?
Any brushes.
Polina Egorushkina. The Grey Skyscrapper. 80x100 cm 2014
Do you see the works of other artists?
Rarely.
What did you give the reward in the Shenzhen Biennale?
Great joy and a trip to China.
Your advice for beginners watercolors.
Be brave and sincere in your work.
Liu Xide - Interview
Liu Xide is a young Chinese artists working in watercolor. He lives in Guanxi provance that is said to be a place of watercolor in China. I represent an interview with this master that is included in my new book "Masters Of Watercolor. Both Sides Of The Great Wall"
Do you consider your painting style western or traditional?
My painting style is more traditional.
Do you follow certain aesthetic cannons when you paint?
Of course. And I also follow my intuition, inner voice and feelings.
How many colors do you have on your palette?
There are 18 colors on my palette. But actually only 6 or 8 color or even less I would use often.
Do you plan your work before you start?
Yes. I will always plan my work before I start, which means a lot to me. I need to make an overall plan according to the subject or my inner feelings. This step can help me to avoid some problems.
Do you always complete your painting in one go?
In most cases, I finish my painting at one time, because in this way I can fully focus on it and keep a coherent thoughit. Besides, the characteristics of water-colour painting need me to finish it at one time.
How many different brushes do you need for one painting?
You know, Chinese brush is very expressive. It can be used in many different ways. So basically, it is enough for me to use 3 brushes - one big brush, one Chinese brush and one small brush for painting details.
Is it important to paint in plain air?
I think it is fairly important. From the view of learning, plain air is the best lesson for color training. It provides us with rich color changing and splendid scenery. By out-door painting, we can earn exquisite skills and color language.
Is it possible to be a full time artist in China?
This is an interesting question. In China, nothing is impossible. Though full-time artist is an ideal job, it is hard for us to earn our living by painting only.
What is more important for an artist - successful students or personal achievements?
It is hard to answer this question as to answer the meaning of life. But it is quite meaningful. First of all, teaching successful students is important, which helps them to make their own achievements in art and also proves that the teacher is successful. But if I have to choose one from the two, I have to say that, for an artist, personal achievement is more important . As an old Chinese saying goes: An accomplished teacher has skilled students. One have to be a successful artist before he has the ability to teach others.
Is there a strong competition between artists in China? Does it help to improve to every artist?
In China, there are many excellent artists. It is very very difficult for many to have the ability to have his paintings shown in a national level exhibition. I have no idea whether it will encourage every artist. But for most of them, I think the answer would be yes. Every artist should have a positive and innovative spirit of practice.
Have you ever been fully satisfied with your work?
Besides work, drawing is my hobby. It is a happy thing to be able to draw. I am quite happy with my job now.
Do you consider your painting style western or traditional?
My painting style is more traditional.
Do you follow certain aesthetic cannons when you paint?
Of course. And I also follow my intuition, inner voice and feelings.
Liu Xide. Hmong Girl. 76x56 cm. 2015
How many colors do you have on your palette?
There are 18 colors on my palette. But actually only 6 or 8 color or even less I would use often.
Do you plan your work before you start?
Yes. I will always plan my work before I start, which means a lot to me. I need to make an overall plan according to the subject or my inner feelings. This step can help me to avoid some problems.
Do you always complete your painting in one go?
In most cases, I finish my painting at one time, because in this way I can fully focus on it and keep a coherent thoughit. Besides, the characteristics of water-colour painting need me to finish it at one time.
Liu Xide. Affectionate Song. 73x53 cm. 2015
How many different brushes do you need for one painting?
You know, Chinese brush is very expressive. It can be used in many different ways. So basically, it is enough for me to use 3 brushes - one big brush, one Chinese brush and one small brush for painting details.
Is it important to paint in plain air?
I think it is fairly important. From the view of learning, plain air is the best lesson for color training. It provides us with rich color changing and splendid scenery. By out-door painting, we can earn exquisite skills and color language.
Liu Xide. Asking. 56x76 cm. 2014
Is it possible to be a full time artist in China?
This is an interesting question. In China, nothing is impossible. Though full-time artist is an ideal job, it is hard for us to earn our living by painting only.
What is more important for an artist - successful students or personal achievements?
It is hard to answer this question as to answer the meaning of life. But it is quite meaningful. First of all, teaching successful students is important, which helps them to make their own achievements in art and also proves that the teacher is successful. But if I have to choose one from the two, I have to say that, for an artist, personal achievement is more important . As an old Chinese saying goes: An accomplished teacher has skilled students. One have to be a successful artist before he has the ability to teach others.
Liu Xide
Is there a strong competition between artists in China? Does it help to improve to every artist?
In China, there are many excellent artists. It is very very difficult for many to have the ability to have his paintings shown in a national level exhibition. I have no idea whether it will encourage every artist. But for most of them, I think the answer would be yes. Every artist should have a positive and innovative spirit of practice.
Have you ever been fully satisfied with your work?
Besides work, drawing is my hobby. It is a happy thing to be able to draw. I am quite happy with my job now.
Liu Xide. Hmong Girl-2. 56x76 cm. 2016
Monday, August 29, 2016
Workshop in MISA, USA
Welcome to my workshop in USA!
It is taking place in MISA - Madeline Island School of Art 18-22, June 2017.
During this five day workshop, you will learn how to use the Alla
Prima approach to create expressive works in watercolor. I will
share my knowledge of this classic approach while utilizing contemporary
techniques including wet-on-wet, dry brush, glazing, splashing, masking, and
many others. You will also learn how to create convincing works without
needing advanced drawing skills.
The class schedule will include 2-3 painting demonstrations
per day and opportunities to paint a variety of subjects. You will learn
distinct approaches for florals, landscapes, seascapes, interiors and
portraits. This class will be mainly studio based with some opportunities to
paint en Plein Air throughout the week, using Madeline Island’s amazing
landscapes and seascapes as inspiration.
You can choose to bring two or three of your own
paintings for personal critique, or specific objects of interest to receive
feedback on the right approach to use, and mistakes to avoid when painting the
chosen subject matter. Class will conclude with a critique exhibition of
student and teacher’s works at week’s end.
Wednesday, August 24, 2016
My New Video On Demand "Cool Summer"
Dear reader,
you can examine all stages of my new landscape study "Cool Summer".
https://vimeo.com/ondemand/sterkhovart1/179190976
I have shot 3 videos based on my impressions from the distant island in Finland called Tammio. This is the first one. I will show how to make an illusion of distance, how to mix complicated and balanced greens and how to use various textures with your tools.
you can examine all stages of my new landscape study "Cool Summer".
https://vimeo.com/ondemand/sterkhovart1/179190976
I have shot 3 videos based on my impressions from the distant island in Finland called Tammio. This is the first one. I will show how to make an illusion of distance, how to mix complicated and balanced greens and how to use various textures with your tools.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Cool Summer. Tammio Island. 26x36 cm (15"x22") 2016
Preview of my new video available on Vimeo now.
First 18 downloads of full version (31 minutes) will get 30 % off with promo code "18colors". See the preview, For the full video go to Vimeo on demand.
First 18 downloads of full version (31 minutes) will get 30 % off with promo code "18colors". See the preview, For the full video go to Vimeo on demand.
I am sure you will learn new tricks and approaches! Enjoy!)
Friday, June 3, 2016
CHENG-KHEE CHEE ON PBS NORTH
ANNOUNCEMENT
CHENG-KHEE CHEE ON PBS NORTH -
Duluth, MN - June 2, 2016. The Tweed Museum of Art (TMA) at
the University of Minnesota Duluth would like to share with you that The Playlist will feature a recording of master
watercolor artist, Cheng-Khee Chee, tonight.
This footage was recorded last summer when the works of Mr. Chee were on exhibit at the Tweed Museum of Art. This is the
opportunity to meet artist Cheng-Khee Chee in his element, and explore pieces
from his private collection at the museum with art experts. Tune in and enjoy a
delightful, surprising look at one of the region's most beloved watercolorists.
Full episode Thursday, June 2 at 9 PM on PBS North.
Events Contact:
Christine Strom
Tweed Museum of Art
218-726-7823
www.d.umn.edu/tmaTuesday, May 10, 2016
My Interview for St Cuthberts Mill
http://stcuthbertsmill.blogspot.ru/
"Painting for me is like a meditation in sense that I am enjoying the process but I am fully detached. Somehow I am not identifying myself as a doer, more as an instrument. There is so much beauty in the world. I believe it is a gift to see it and to be capable of reflecting even a part of it in my works. I love to paint in oil and water-color but I always come back to water-color. What is a magnetic attraction of it? Water is the source of everything. There is no life without water. It has been 25 years since I first discovered watercolors and they keep on surprising me." Konstantin Sterkhov
Konstantin Sterkhov. Quite Evening in Tammio. 27x37 cm. 2016
"Painting for me is like a meditation in sense that I am enjoying the process but I am fully detached. Somehow I am not identifying myself as a doer, more as an instrument. There is so much beauty in the world. I believe it is a gift to see it and to be capable of reflecting even a part of it in my works. I love to paint in oil and water-color but I always come back to water-color. What is a magnetic attraction of it? Water is the source of everything. There is no life without water. It has been 25 years since I first discovered watercolors and they keep on surprising me." Konstantin Sterkhov
Interview with Konstantin Sterkhov 2016
Tell me about when you decided to go “pro”. When did you
decide to dedicate yourself to your art. Give us an example of what that meant
to you. (What pushed your artwork from amateur level to professional?)
To be honest I have never been at amateur level. Straight
after school I have enrolled first to University graphic department, then
to The Repin Academy of Fine Arts. So I skipped that phase of being
amateur artists. I was very well trained. After the Academy talking about
skills. I just had to find my own face in Art. Though there was a period
when l was earning my living in adverts and design but it was only for 7
years and I kept teaching art courses the same time.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Helsinki Harbor. 27x37 cm. 2016
Please
state which St Cuthberts Mill papers you use and why?
I use mainly Saunders Waterford CP and rough white 300,
425 and 638 gm .
Konstantin Sterkhov. Low Sunlight in Helsinki. 27x37 cm. 2016
How does
the use of these papers enhance your work?
I tried many different types and brands. About 5 years ago I
bought in an art supplies shop in Finland Saunders Waterford that was on
sale. First thing that attracted me was the price then. I tried the paper
at my workshop the same day. It was marvellous. Since then l am merely use only
that paper. I was experimenting with thickness but as an artist who often
had to send his work to international shows l found that it is more
practical to paint even large size on 300 gm as you can easily roll and send it
in a tube. I also use the roll paper. It seems to me very flexible to cut in
different sizes and also seems to have a nice surface. And yes, I like
when the colour is a bit yellowish, so I prefer white to high white.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Tammio Island. Cool Summer. 27x37 cm. 2016
Is there an artist you admire, did they inspire you to be an
artist yourself?
They are many. Besides Sargent, Zorn and Wyeth I picked many
artists that I admire for my interview book series "Masters Of
Watercolor”. So far I have published more than 60 interviews
with international artists including Robert Wade, John Yardley, David
Poxon, Shirley Trevena, Tony Smibert, Joseph Zbukvic, Alvaro Castagnet,
Joe Dowden, Angus McEwan, etc. I can‘t say they inspired me to be an
artist as I was an artist already when I made my series. Nevertheless
other excellent artists‘ works always inspire me and I try to share it
with my fans and readers.
Konstantin Sterkhov. In Himalayas. 20x36 cm. 2016
Do you remember the first painting you did that you were
really proud of?
There were some but i forgot them. I have been painting for
over 30 years since I was 14. Anyway after every new achievement old works
seem to step behind. it you want to grow as an artist you need to look
more forward than behind.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Sunset in Savonlinna. 27x37 cm. 2016
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
I am proud of having a special award in Marine painting by
independent jury group from The Hetmitage at the Art Bridge Biennial in
St. Petersburg. I am honoured to have my paintings juried to several
exhibitions in International juried shows in USA. I am honoured to be
invited to curate and judge several international exhibitions during last
few years. And certainly it is extremely nice to receive warm words of
appreciation from my fellow artists on Facebook and on my blog.
What are you working on right now?
I am writing a new book in my series Masters Of
Watercolor. It is themed as Both Sides Of The Great Wall and representing
both Chinese and Russian artists. Also I have a lot of materials after my
trip to China last November and a few other ideas that I don‘t want
to share right now.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Night is Falling. Helsinki Harbor. 27x37 cm. 2016
What’s the one painting you’ve painted that you will always
keep?
Those are mainly the paintings featured my family. Those
paintings might be exposed at some shows but I keep them for myself.
Konstantin Sterkhov. Sunny Face. 27x37 cm. 2013
What advice would you give to yourself, the artist you were
10 years ago?
Stop doing work for others, work on your own projects.
Anything
else you'd like to mention that I didn't ask?
I would like to praise your paper more... Really the best
one!
For more info about Saunders Waterford paper:
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