"Expressions from the Soul" artwork by Vonnie Kohn, Texas artist, oil paintings, Phillips 66 station, Cowboy

"Fill 'Er Up"

"Portrait of a Cowboy"

"Fill 'Er Up" is a 1920's Phillip's 66 station that we discovered in Atoka, Oklahoma. At present, it is the home of the local Chamber of Commerce. The gas pump was known as a gravity feed pump...oil on canvas..18x24"

"Portrait of a Cowboy"..oil on canvas..20x20" is of a local cowboy living near Weatherford, Tx. He is the real deal! I'm told he always wears a bandana..seems this is his trademark.


I am honored to announce that I have had 4 artworks selected for the "Expressions from the Soul" juried art exhibition at the Doss Heritage & Culture Center in Weatherford, Texas. "Fill 'Er Up" is a 1920's Phillip's 66 station that we discovered in Atoka, Oklahoma. At present, it is the home of the local Chamber of Commerce. The gas pump was known as a gravity feed pump.

The "Expressions from the Soul" exhibit, in its 4th year, brings together more than 50 top regional artists dedicated to representing the varied styles of artwork found in Texas. The show will be held October 24, 2012-February 3rd, 2013. Weatherford is about 20 minutes west of Ft. Worth, Texas. If you are in the area or need more information, please call 817-599-6168 or www.dosscenter.org. The Doss Heritage is a beautiful museum dedicated to preserving the historical significance of the West.

If you are interested in these works, please contact me at:  www.vonniekohn.com or dosscenter.org.

Thank you for looking!

God's Handiwork, landscape, oil painting by Vonnie Kohn

 "God' Handiwork"

oil on canvas

18 x 24"

It's been awhile since I have posted on my blog. I've been fortunate to do some plein air painting through the summer, although we've had record high temperatures here in Texas. When traveling, it is not wise to advertise, so I find it more advisable to post after returning home.  Our state is known for its beautiful sunsets. Luckily this image was very local for me...in my back yard. Even with drought conditions, we have had clouds rolling in from time to time.Noticing the beautiful light touching the clouds, I quickly set up my portable easel in the back yard. Painting "en plein air" requires fast observation as the light changes about every 15 seconds. My emphasis in the painting was concerned with placement of color and correct values in the horizon of the trees. The camera cannot capture the darker shadows accurately..it translates as black in the image. Plein air is the most effective manner of painting to record true color. Evidently the painting was a success...it received an award in the Weatherford Peach Festival Fine Art Show, 2012!

If interested in this painting, please contact me at:

www.vonniekohn.com

http://vonniekohn-artist.blogspot.com

Spanish Daggers, The Cove, Plein Air, Oil Paintings, Landscapes by Vonnie Kohn

"The Cove"

"Spanish Daggers"

May was a very busy month! Lately I've had several opportunities for painting "en plein aire"-a term which means painting in an outdoor setting. Sounds romantic, eh? In Texas, artists have to endure the elements of insects, heat, sudden spring storms, and prickly pears or cacti as they hike into remote areas to find beauty. Such was this trip. I was participating in Arte de los Brazos, a juried art competition at "Possum Kingdom" Lake, an area that survived wildfires involving hundreds of acres the previous year with a substantial loss of homes. This place has evolved into a resort community with retirees from corporate life escaping the large cities of Dallas and Ft. Worth. I was curious to see if "beauty had emerged from ashes." So it had. 

When I go on a plein air outing, I travel very light, carrying an 8 x 10" pochade box, some 9 x 12" wood panels, a set of water soluable oils, a paint thinner & a small amount of medium. Oh, yes, a couple of brushes, although my fingers have been known to "double" as a painting device. The morning had rained, delaying our party of about 15 painters. We headed out as soon as the clouds broke.

 In "The Cove", my goal was to capture the fast moving overcast clouds before blue sky completely covered the area-fifteen minutes later! There is an area of burnt ridges in the distant background. The sun was trying to break into the scene with a glow on the mesquite tree in the foreground. I had to paint quickly to capture the fleeting light.

"Spanish Daggers" was a term given to the yucca plant in the early days. It is amazing how our planet can renew itself when devastation has happened. This was originally intended to be the underpainting for additional layers, but became an impressionist painting itself as the colors emerged. The redder trees in the background behind the yucca stalks were burned-out post oak trees still standing. Juxtaposing the green yuccas in front of their red counterparts complemented the hardy plants. Yellow wildflowers completed the composition. "Beauty for Ashes," don't you agree?

These are available for inquiry...if interested, please contact me @ 

www.vonniekohn.com

Thank you for looking!

"Hey Handsome", by Vonnie Kohn, oil painting, contemporary pet portrait

"Hey Handsome..."

11 x 14" Oil

SOLD

This is a contemporary painting of a  French Bull dog with a beautiful disposition. The painting was a commission which was one of two for a canine physical therapist. His owner had trained him to sit patiently while I gathered photos for a composite. I usually study at least 5-6 photos to find the composite personality. His owner was very well pleased at the results in the painting. 

I am now available for new commissions on your beloved pets. I may be reached here or through my website:

www.vonniekohn.com 

http://vonniekohn-artist.com 

Thanks for looking!

Portrait of a Cowboy, by Vonnie Kohn, Contemporary Western Oil Painting

"Portrait of a Cowboy"

20 x 20 x 1 1/2"

Oil on Canvas

John is a remarkable cowboy of our present day. He is tall, lanky, and as a cowboy, he is the real deal. I spotted him seated in this profile next to a chuckwagon during a championship cookout. His cowboy attire typifies the American Spirit...red, white and blue. The contrast of his hat in direct sunlight with face in shadow was an invitation to paint!

Shortly after completing this painting, I learned from some of his friends that he was in an accident with his horse. His firm resolve to survive the broken bones just reinforced my opinion of the all-American Cowboy, quiet, soft spoken, endurance...courage comes in many forms.

This painting is available. You may contact me at:
www.vonniekohn.com                                                                        

Labrador Retriever Commissioned oil painting by Vonnie Kohn

"Bear"

16 x 20"

oil on canvas

Sold

Labrador retrievers are among the most favored dogs of the canine world. They are gentle giants, faithful companions, excellent hunting dogs. This is the last of my Christmas commissions. It is also one of my all-time favorites. I met "Bear" a few days ago to finalize her portrait. What an endearing canine! she was thoroughly in sync with the commands of her owner's father. (I'm not sure who is more attached-the owner or his dad) No two animals-even of the same species-are alike. Each has his own character traits, expression in the eyes, his posture...and his owner is able to recognize them at a glance. I challenged myself to capture Bear's soul on canvas. It is my hope that Bear's family will enjoy this beautiful experience as well. Merry Christmas, "Bear."

I will be accepting new commissions after January 1st. Please contact me at:

www.vonniekohn.com

Thank you for looking!

"Eye Candy Series"-#5, Ribbon Candy" by Vonnie Kohn, Christmas candy, small works

"Eye Candy Series-# 5, Ribbon Candy"

4 x 4, oil on canvas

Gallery Wrap-needs no frame

$ 50

Ribbon candy is one of those classics of rock candy. It's been around forever. I remember getting some of this in my stocking when I was a child. Now I am "stuffing" the stockings for my grandchildren with the same wonderful kind of candy. I chose this as part of my series as the reds and greens just sparkle with delicious color. Another delightful memory...goes along with thoughts of presents, the Christmas tree, twinkling lights...ah, Christmas.

I accept personal checks & PayPal...please contact me if interested:

www.vonniekohn.com

vkohnartist@aol.com

"Eye Candy Series"-#4, Peppermints" by Vonnie Kohn, Christmas candy, small works

"Eye Candy # 4-Peppermints"

4 x 4" Oil

Gallery Wrapped (no frame needed)

$ 50

Peppermint candy, in the form of a candy cane or round mints, has many functions. It has a history of aiding in the aftermath of eating or to "enhance" or "sweeten" one's breath. There is, however, another important role in the seasons...it is a sign of Christmas approaching. Going to the store for candy was not a routine event in my childhood. Imagine how excited we were when we arrived at our grandmother's house to discover a candy dish filled with these delicious treats at holiday time. Now it is my turn to carry on family traditions. I  set out peppermints in a festive candy dish to treat my art students as they leave class (with their parents' permission, of course). The best part of today's post is that there are no hidden calories in pleasant memories....enjoy the moment.

I accept PayPal and checks. If interested, please contact me at:              

 

www.vonniekohn.com

http://vonniekohn-artist.blogspot.com

vkohnartist@aol.com

Thank you for looking!

"Eye Candy Series"-#3/ Candy Corn, oil painting by Vonnie Kohn, Thanksgiving, small works

"Eye Candy Series, # 3/ Candy Corn"

4 x 4"

Gallery wrap (no frame needed)

$ 50

Thanksgiving is upon us!

In the United States we celebrate this  time of year when our forefathers celebrated their first year at Plymouth, Massachusetts during the 1600's with a time of Thanksgiving. There is a story in which food was so scarce that most days the Pilgrims only had a daily ration of 5 kernels of corn apiece.  The Pilgrims, refusing to give in to despair chose to trust in God, regardless of their circumstances. They considered these kernels of corn as a blessing. I chose to depict "Candy Corn" as commemorative of the stedfastness of our forefathers during this Thanksgiving season...let US be thankful!

If interested, please contact me at:

www.vonniekohn.com

vkohnartist@aol.com

Thank you for stopping by!

Eye Candy Series-# 2, "Bon-Bon" , oil painting by Vonnie Kohn

"Eye Candy Series" # 2-Bon Bon

4 x 4" gallery wrap, needs no frame

Oil Painting

$ 50

Many years ago, I used to work as a "packer" for a well-known candy company. That meant I placed a piece of chocolate candy into a paper foil and packed it into a fancy box. I had to learn to do this rapidly because the box was on a conveyor belt & moved along. The trick was to put "x" number of candies in proper order in the box before it moved along the belt. Much later after this job, I saw a Lucille Ball show in which she did the same thing. She didn't move fast enough & began stuffing candy down her blouse to make up for lost time. I did not have to resort to that method but learned that my real calling was art, not that of a "candy packer." Nevertheless, it was an experience that brought this bon-bon to a pleasant memory..enjoy.

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing...it would make a pleasant memory-and, no calories!

www.vonniekohn.com

Thank you for looking

"Eye Candy Series"-#1, Chocolate Covered Cherry by Vonnie Kohn, Christmas candy, small works

 

"Eye Candy" # 1

Chocolate Covered Cherry

Small works..4x 4"

Oil on gallery wrap (no frame needed)

$ 50-available

When I was much younger, a box of chocolate covered cherries was the ultimate treat at Christmas time. As the holiday season draws near, I am reminded of this candy as I pass through the stores, listening to Christmas music (can you believe it's not even Thanksgiving yet?). I was asked to do a few "Candy" paintings for a candy company to exhibit through the holidays and it inspired me to do a whole series from the pleasant memories I had as a child. Feast for the eyes..."Eye Candy". 

 

If interested, please contact me for availability:

 

www.vonniekohn.com 

http://vonniekohn-artist.blogspot.com 

 vkohnartist@aol.com

 

Thank you for looking!

Equine Expo Show with Weatherford Art Association, Vonnie Kohn

Whew! What a busy November it's been. A trio of members from our art guild (Karon Richardson, Julie Lawther, and myself) hosted a booth at the Teskey's Equine Expo in Weatherford, Texas early this month. In Texas, we are experiencing an unseasonal heat in the month of November. My "summer tan" came a little late during this show..aka, "boiled lobster" status. We had much fun, good sales, and a raffle which was a fund raiser for our art group. It included 3 (excited) winners for a Christmas ornament with a painted horse (or small pet) of the owner. There was also a re-enactment group (with a jail) next to our booth & a Country/ Western band to provide entertainment. I was careful not to get some time in "jail." What a good day for sharing our art with others.

"La Golondrina" by Vonnie Kohn, equestrian Spanish woman on horseback, oil

A "golandrina" is a young Spanish woman skilled in equestrian drill team riding. Here in the Southwest, there are many such drill teams who perform on Cinco de Mayo (the 5th of May), a holiday celebrating Mexican heritage and pride. This holiday is celebrated both in the United States & regionally in Mexico to celebrate the cause of freedom and democracy.

This young beauty has taken a pause to enjoy the moment between the  performances. Her drills have taken many hours of practice to synchronize in perfect timing with many other young ladies. These women are all dressed alike, with matching tack and gear and are a delight to watch as they perform.

Oil on canvas. 24 x 36". 

Installed at Beto's Restaurant in Springtown, Tx. for grand opening. 

This painting is already sold, however, other works may be found at:

http://www.vonniekohn.com/

Spanish Collection of Oils by Vonnie Kohn, at Beto's Restaurant



Anna, Beto, & Vonnie Kohn

In Texas, we have a wonderful cuisine known as Tex-Mex. Near us is a place known as Beto's Restaurant. The owner, Beto Garza, is also the chef, while his wife is hostess. We came to know Beto when he was employed at another local restaurant in our town. His excellent cooking left its mark on our community. When he became a proprietor of his own place, we found ourselves as faithful customers once again.

His blank walls became a "canvas" for my paintings to hang. Here is one of them,  a 24 x 48" gallery wrapped canvas whose subject is one of five main Spanish Missions located on the "Mission Trail" in San Antonio, Tx.

Owners, Anna and Beto

I later added 2 smaller paintings to his collection. There is another works-in-progress, entitled, "La Golondrina" which is soon coming.

If you find yourself in the area (about 25 mi. west of Ft. Worth, Tx.), they are located at 1272 Hwy 199 E., Ste. 101 in a small shopping center on the top of the hill. It is one of those quaint little places in Texas that you encounter on a day trip...stop bye, I think you will be pleasantly surprised! Their phone # is: 817-677-4127 if you need further directions.


vonniekohn.com

"New Paintings at the Doss Museum"...by Vonnie Kohn, contemporary western landscape, Native art

I've been accepted!

Welcome news... from the curator of the Doss Heritage & Culture Museum in Weatherford, Tx--a town also known as the "cutting horse capital" of the world. The exhibit will be the month of September, 2011.  These paintings will be available for sale during the show.

I have just included "Cactus Heat" in my previous post (see below), but the second painting is not a painting...it is a skilled drawing on a metal plate, etched with acid baths, and then printed on a specially prepared rag paper. It is one of a limited edition of 20 etchings. (which means when the edition is completed, the plate will be destroyed).

This Etching is entitled: "A Rich Heritage." The image was inspired by many trips to

family gatherings, otherwise known as Powwows, as I observed the matriarchs in their finest Native American jewelry, fans, and prayer shawls. (The prayer shawl is required to step into the ring for dancing...it is a sign of respect.)

Custom Frame size: 20 x 24

Neutral tone, triple-cut mat

For more information, please visit my website:

http://www.vonniekohn.com/

"Watchful Eyes" by Vonnie Kohn, oil painting of dogs with western setting

Have you ever observed how much our animals love us without strings attached? My family was entering a Tex-Mex restaurant one evening when I noticed all the patrons looking out (seemingly at us) a large window. As my eyes followed their stares, I noticed a pickup to my immediate right with two dogs in the back, guarding the saddles, blankets, bridles. They were being completely obedient to the command, "stay." When we entered the restaurant, I found two cowboys, wearing their full regalia, complete with boots and spurs, standing in line. I didn't have my camera at the time, but I remembered.....two years later, with the right setups, I completed this painting. I still remember the obedience of the border collie, the other, an australian cowdog. I could just envision those dogs waiting patiently in a pasture while their master was hunting, or working a fence line, or locating a young calf. What do you think? This painting has found a new home, but there are others. Please visit my website for more information:

http://www.vonniekohn.com/

18 x 24...oil on canvas...SOLD

"Rainbow in a Blue Vase"

When I was a younger artist, my mother-in-law had several bushes of hydrangeas planted in her front garden bed. She called them "snowball" plants. In memory of her, I planted a hydrangea bush in my front yard a few years ago. In our Texas heat, I had to take special care to put this bush in a partially shaded area...not an easy feat when there are few trees in the front yard! It has never done well; however, this year it was completely loaded with all the colors of this variety of flower--blues, pinks, lavendars, & even whites! As a homage to Spring (& my mother-in-law), I have put this Rainbow in a Blue Vase. Enjoy!

Oil on Canvas...11 x 14...gallery wrap (needs no frame)

(Sold)

 

This painting has just found a new home, but there are others to be found on my website:

http://www.vonniekohn.com/

Thanks for stopping by!

Pink Rose by Vonnie Kohn, small works, floral

Have you ever wanted to receive a dozen roses from an admirer? Roses are my favorite floral subject..also the most challenge for me to paint. I participated in a plein air event at the Dallas Arboretum last Spring and chose to wander into the Rose Garden. I was absolutely enthralled with the many varieties of roses. I didn't know there were so many! This small oil was a result of the many studies I was able to accomplish before leaving. The small gallery wrapped canvas was a perfect surface to work quickly because of the changing light.

Original oil on gallery wrap canvas (needs no frame)...5 x 5"   $100

If interested, please contact me at: http://www.vonniekohn.com/

I accept Paypal or personal check

Gov. S.W.T. Lanham of Tx, Confederate soldier, portrait by Vonnie Kohn

This is a posthumous commission that I have been working on for some time. Mr. S.W.T. Lanham was a governor of Texas during the late 1800's. His 2-story mansion which sits on an entire city block is located in Weatherford, Texas. He was involved in many legislative areas in the state, including the organizing of the University of Texas. As a former Confederate soldier, he was highly esteemed by the local chapter of the Sons of Confederate Veterans in Weatherford. This painting will be presented to the Chapter this week at their monthly meeting. The second image is a close-up of his face. ....oil on canvas/ 24 x 30...Sold

"Teamwork"

I LOVE horses. I've been riding them & painting them since I was a child. I happened to pass by these two beauties while at a local community outdoor festival. I had been watching them for awhile & finally walked up to the owner to ask permission to photograph them. They have been "partners" for several years now. It takes time and patience to train the right animals to work together in perfect sync. These two fit the role they have been asked to perform.

12 x 16 Original oil on canvas..please contact me if you are interested in purchasing. My website is: www.vonniekohn.com