In music, an etude is a short composition used primarily for practicing certain technical skills. As studies, they were originally composed for exercise, but have become commonplace in concert repertoire. Some of my favorite pieces of classical music are, in fact, etudes.
Recently, I have embarked on a series of studies or exercises in my artwork. The Painted Etude Series is an exciting way for me to practice particular technical aspects of painting. They provide a great opportunity to explore and experiment. As a result, I am able to learn and grow tremendously.
As I recently began doing these little etudes almost daily, I have been excited about the little jewels I am creating. Some are similar to my typical paintings. Many are quite different. But they serve a purpose for my progression as an artist. Some are explorations in new subject matter. Some are exercises in composition. With many, I work on drawing, or color theory. Others are attempts at employing new techniques of paint application. Some focus on rhythm or harmony. Others push the envelope on contrast or discord. I am simply striving to grow as an artist and broaden my abilities.
I have decided to offer a few of these little gems for sale. Only the etudes which I feel are successful in terms of aesthetics will be offered for sale. The paintings which fail or simply don't have aesthetic appeal will not be released for sale.
It is my hope that these little painted etudes will be exciting to you. They show my struggles and excitement. They reveal my methods and thoughts. Hopefully at the end of the project, significant growth with be evidenced.
The paintings will be released regularly. There will not be a specified schedule for release, but rather as they become available. I will send a brief email and also post them to my blog. The paintings will be 4 x 5 inches each and will be unframed (I may occasionally do other sizes such as 4 x 4 or 3 x 6 when I am exploring certain compositional choices). The paintings will be $150 each. I will continue this project as long as I find excitement and benefit in these little exercises. I anticipate doing about 100 or 200. Perhaps I will do them as long as I live. I am not concerned with a predetermined quantity.
I feel that these painted etudes will add value to my entire body of work as they are evidence of my growth as an artist. In some cases, these little studies may even become precursors to more developed studio works.
I hope that you are as excited about this little project as I am.
Sincerely,
Keith Bond
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