Figure Drawing Again

I’m so excited to have found a local gallery that provides a figure drawing night for anyone to enjoy. I was transported back to my art school days. It seriously has been 16 years since I’ve drawn a nude model. God I feel old. After a few quick sketches, I felt back into the groove. I was so happy to be there and sketching again. Can’t wait to make this part of my routine.


© Mari Keeler Cornwell

Dr. Oliver Bronson House & Art Exhibit

Today I got to visit the Dr. Oliver Bronson in the city of Hudson. Seldom do they open the doors for the public, so I feel very lucky to have experienced it this weekend. Adding to the treat, the city invited 3 known artists to show within the house’s walls. The artist chose not to be tagged and titled as any other gallery, making each piece blend exquisitely with the historic home.

Valerie Hammond’s pop of color and delicate work felt like a door into a dark and fascinating (sometimes terrifying) world. It really enhanced the surrealness of the environment surrounding it.

Kiki Smith’s drawings where really fragile yet depicted some interesting and complex characters. They where a perfect fit with its harsh yet beautiful home.

Seton Smith’s photographs displayed the hazy beauty of this grand structure. A great compliment to the exhibit.

I was incredibly please and enjoyed every minute of this gem. Thank you Hudson for organizing such a great group of artist, they were made for this historic property.

Built in 1812, the Dr. Oliver Bronson’s was declared a national historical landmark in 2003 and has been going through renovations since. If you want to help and become part of this incredible piece of history’s facelift, you can make a donation to Historic Hudson, Inc. 

Fun Fact: The Oliver-Bronson house was in the 2012 Bourne Legacy film as Shearing’s (Rachel Weisz) home.

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Thomas Witte

I met artist Thomas Witte a few weeks ago and really enjoyed his work. Thomas and I have a tentative studio visit where we will discuss his work and I will take some photos of workshop (Stay tuned!). But in the meantime, If you live in NYC or will be in the area in a few weeks, his studio will be open to the public for a walk-through as part of ‘behind-the scenes’ tour of the Brooklyn Navy Yard this April 9th. Below are a few examples of his work.


©all work by thomas witte

Amelia Biewald

I’ve been walking by this exhibit for a week or so on my way to work and finally took a few minutes to see it. Amelia Biewald‘s Perfect from now on’ exhibit at the MagnanMetz gallery in Chelsea, includes of a giant chandelier, which captures your attention right away, as well as rotating, life-sized/crystallized animals, intricate drawings and incredibly detailed dioramas.

There’s a thick sense of a dark fairy tale taking place especially with the little worlds inside these beautiful glass bell jars. The huge wall piece, which was inspired by the slow formation of cave structures, shows a meticulous layered process. There is a nice contrast of beauty, time and chaos in this room and I suggest you swing by and check it out. It runs until Dec. 23rd.