Creative Images

Not Your Mother's Cola.

2012-01-24T07:16:00.000-08:00

Good day its an excellent day to celebrate being in love with your life. Last week ended with 3"gone and a new weigh of 206 lbs, and busier then a bee hanging out at Longwood Gardens. A little something for you Easties, love you. There's a lot of mental processing that goes along with changing how one views food. But alas that's a song for another day.
Let's talk Peach Mango Drink for breakfast, I added an ounce of Aloe Gold, down right yummy! The Prime is in the picture as an added element. Funny while editing the photo guess who hadn't taken any yet today and its all of 7:11 in the morning. Got that out of the way. It's time to walk, hop gently, stand and talk to everyone how live is filled with vitality.

Not Your Mother's Cola

Broccoli, Zuchini, Celery Lettuce Wrap

2012-01-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

Ice Cycle Blue Berry Ice

Lunch is over but it was yummy, delicious.

Broccoli, Zucchini, Celery Wrap

Here's the how, Chop 3 garlic cloves and 2 green onions, saute in olive oil, find the paprika and some a half teaspoon to the oil. Don't burnt them it is bad for you and steals the flavor away. While this is going on cut up two and half cups of broccoli, the zucchini I used a cup and and some celery. Sorry the order is backwards to how you are going to use it, start with the celery while you slaving away with the other vegetables and the celery. The zucchini goes in next, a little more paprika if you please. I like to add a sprinkle of garlic powder. Push this over to one half of your 12 inch non stick frying pan place the broccoli on the other half and 2oz of water to the broccoli and cover. I steam-saute the broccoli until al dente. I washed and prepared the lettuce set aside. I then mix it all together saute a briefly. Have your half of lemon standing by squeeze that over your vegetables if you want salt be stingy. The paprika just needs a hint to bring out its flavor. I served this on lettuce wraps. I munched through four or five of them before I could take a break to grab the photo.. I could have shared the last one but I ate it. This may have taken me longer to write the it did to prepare.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HUGH LOVE YOU DAD

Serenity Snow Day

2012-01-18T07:05:00.000-08:00

In a blog a hundred years ago, I have a painting or photo of a flower with the title of Serenity. I was feeling pretty serene as I finished up yoga in the office this morning then I decided to snap a photo of my space. The conclusion ia an enormous amount of peace can be found in so much chaos. Have a great day surround yourselves in the peace, celebrate your loves with others and have a some robust jazziness fun.

Vitality

2012-01-16T09:16:00.000-08:00

209 lbs, this morning. What's interesting is that I've only done cardio for 20 mins in the last week in a half and no weight lifting. My rewad for the 210 lbs milestone is a new yoga mat.

Bird Feeding Vitality

Gold Ornament Vitality

Natural Vitality

There all different photos of kinds of vatality. Do you have a favorite? Have an exuberant day!

Breakfast of Delight

2012-01-15T13:40:00.000-08:00

Hi, yep two days in a row, well its snowing here. I'll probably chase some snow flakes outside in a bit. Before lunch here something deletable for breakfast. I grabbed this recipe idea of the Matol Diet Facebook page, thank you. https://www.facebook.com/#!/UniveraHealthyWeight

Coco Nutmeg Pancakes (3)

Put the Pancakes in a bowl a 1/4 of teaspoon of unsweetened chocolate, I think if you put in too much it will get messy. I like nutmeg so a good dash of it. I use a whisk to mix and add in the water, tried two ounces it all just clumped up inside added almost two more. So it let go of the death grip on the whisk and could be spatula out into three clumps. I was a little concerned that they wouldn't dry when they went on the non stick griddle. They bubbled up spread out it was pretty interesting to watch. After a couple of minutes, they were loose but able to flip'm. They took about the same amount of time on that side. Delicious light crepe with all the benefits of protein, no sugar and O to little carbs. I may have added some, calories with the chocolate but darn few.

Snow not a lot. But, had to share a little with some of my dear family who is visiting Costa Rica this week. See what you are missing? Washington not only does it rain a lot when you not here but occasionally we get snow.

Elegant Dining Experience

2012-01-14T22:08:00.000-08:00

Here's a Matol Flatbread, I like to spice it up for Miki. This one has a good teaspoon of curry, about a half teaspoon of pepper and garlic salt with a pinch of flax seeds thrown in. This went along with salad.

Her salad was pretty standard fare, today it included a half of avocado and tomato. She likes to keep it pretty simple

Miki's Spinach Salad. It's okay but a little tiny for my taste

This one has my name on it. A cup of Brussels sprouts cut in half steamed, then some olive oil drizzled on with curry and garlic seasoning and cup of mixed chop celery, califlower and baby bak choi sauteed beside them sprouts and combined together with a touch of lemon covered to stay warm. It needed a bed of baby Arugula for a base, veggies with a 6oz can of tuna with some sugar free thousand island dressing

That's what we call an elegant dining experience.

Matol Omlet and Salad

2012-01-12T07:13:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if the yoga or these photos of the Matol Cheddar Cheese and Fine Herb Omlet made me consider putting a little fuel in the tank. It is really yummy. The omlet was has green onions mixed in, alpha sprouts put on top and wrap in. We're out of sprouts for now.

Here's a little salad from earlier in the week. The weight is coming off this morning number was from late 90s, wahoo !

It's Really Close.

2012-01-10T07:22:00.000-08:00

I realize that goals take focus, work and the one has to believe that it is possible. This morning I stepped on the scale and it 214.5 lbs.It seems better to believe the goal is really close. My determination to loose 30lbs is becoming a reality only 21lbs to go, it is really close. The Univera products and Matol Vibrant U Plan are helping me greatly.

Here's a mountain, one climbs it one step at time but believing you are close to the top helps. Having a wife who is positive (Miki) and friends and family who surround you is pretty sweet, Thanks.

Rainy Day 01 04

2012-01-04T12:04:00.000-08:00

Water a great way to start the day off, keeping hydrated is really important.

Veggies and salad great addition to any meal.

Flower Destination Determine 2012

2012-01-02T16:34:00.000-08:00

Hi Happy New Year All. I'm going to start sharing again, This month I have some definite determinations for 2012. Here are some flowers we were given while 2011 was winding down.

Another shot, such fun playing with beautiful natatutal images. Here's the Determine Flowers 2012 is the title. I will wiegh 195lbs by February 12 2012 it will be great to lighter, exciting and uplifting. The tape measure will be in 30s as opposed to:

2011-12-29T06:44:00.000-08:00

Here's the finished image. Logistics of posting are a little fuzzy, Happy New Year.

Here's a layered masked verison on the way to the final photo. This post is a little upside down.

I haven't felt like blogging for a long time, new year's around the corner. I'm going to sharpen the edge. I took this at iso 800 off the tripod with the candle sitting on the printer.

Nature's Beauty and Power

2010-06-20T11:42:00.001-07:00

June 20 Bloom 2010

Photograph Tom Willa

ToMi Photography

June 20 Bloom 2010 Edited
Photograph Tom Willa
ToMi Photography

Yesterday I took the time to go for a walk.
This morning I photographed a lovely flower.

Later, I worked up an interpretation.

Stylized for contrast;

the intention is to display

Nature's Beauty and Power

Shoe

2010-06-09T06:08:00.001-07:00

Shoe

Photograph by Tom Willa

Before a recent wedding, I was taking friends and family shots when I noticed this shot from the pew I was in. My friends will tell you how much I enjoy shoes, shoe shopping and new shoes. This photos captures a little bit of where that appreciation comes from.

Dragon Fly

2010-06-06T05:03:00.000-07:00

Dragon Fly

Photograph by Tom Willa

This photo captures my reflections about how long it is taking for summer to arrive in the Northwest. This visitor stopped in the other night to get out of the cold. The wings are a wonderful transparent blue landing on Ms. Bella Beesley toy was too much to resist.

March Lamb

2010-03-29T15:19:00.000-07:00

Pink Bloom Rhodie

Photograph By ToMi Photography

Tom Willa

March 29th, this is an early bloomer. The flower has been there for the last couple of weeks. I came home from shooting some real estate the other day, I knew it was time to capture it before it lost its zest. I adjusted the exposure and applied a thirty precent cut out filter to the image. I used my 18-50 mm lens and hit the fstop nicely to capture the detail and blur the background. This would be my March lamb,enjoy!

Pink Bloom

2010-03-04T23:38:00.001-08:00

Pink Bloom

8x10 Photograph

By ToMi Creations Photography

Tom Willa

March how time does fly.

Cool Warm

2010-02-19T07:52:00.000-08:00

Tree Ornaments

8x10 Photo Collage

By ToMi Creations Photography

Tom Willa

Well a triangle of images should work. Beside obtaining a wonderful Skeleton Vase for Valentine's Day for Miki. We acquired some tree ornaments and hung them on Valentine's Day,too. The next morning there was a frost, The top photo is about cool, the lower left is about warming up, I tweaked the background warming it up, the right hand side photo is an afternoon shot with no adjustments. I am often inspired by the light at different times during the day this is my snap shot of our weather during the last week. The clear nights are chilly but the blue sky during the days is fun. Where ever you are enjoy the beauty of the moment. Thanks to all of you who have visited driving the counter over 2K

Characteristics of Portraits

2010-02-14T06:55:00.000-08:00

Artist Sculpting

8x10

Photo by ToMi Creations Photography

Tom Willa

I find the characteristics of portraits a topic which entails passion, technique and commitment. Whether it is capturing the intensity of the individual, a reflection of the charisma or the sparkle in the eye I love the beauty of the moment. As a photographer, I seek to share the emotion of my internal thoughts when creating photographs. Less it better.

Here's a new blog by Cyrielle:
http://cyriellewilla.blogspot.com/2010/02/over-analysis.html . You can see what a completed glass sculpted magnifier looks like and how cool a multi-dimensional creation it is.

Love Blooms

2010-02-10T16:16:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Flower

4x6 Photo

By ToMi Creations Photography

Tom Willa

I was out on Sunday searching for good locations for "portrait photo session locations", say that three times real fast. I visited Malbak Nursery in Woodinville, WA. It is a great place with quality greenery. I took a few shots of flowers and checked out their cafe, very yummy.

This photo was taken with my 50mm prime. The finished image a result of patching together two photos in Pshop. I like it for because it has all the warmth of love so it makes me happy and is my Happy Valentine's Flower photo for all of you who follow my blog.

Cropping

2010-02-05T20:38:00.000-08:00

4x5 Cropping

Web Ready Image by

ToMi Creations Photography

by Tom Willa

Friday night, a time to talk mini-techie. When cropping a photo I practice awareness of prospective lines. This photo was taken at South King County Events and Wedding Coordinator meet up in January. There are a lot of different ways to adjust the multiple source white balance reality but once that is completed, it is important if you are going to use cropping tools to maintain a sense of perspective. Above is unmodified raw file saved as a jpeg and adjusted crop photo that is transformed into an image which captures the easy going atmosphere of the event.

Four Valentine's Special

2010-02-01T11:54:00.000-08:00

ToMi Creation Promotional Materials

8x10 by Tom Willa

Valentine's Day is less than two weeks away. We will be open on that Sunday, the 14th, in case you decide to take your sweetheart out to someplace fancy, and want to include a photo . How fun that this romantic day falls on a weekend. There are endless possibilities.

Please let me know if you know anyone who is planning on popping the engagement question, needs an engagement announcement photo, or if a photography session would help make this Valentine's Day memory something extraordinary.

What about surprise weddings? If you are someone who plans on getting married on Valentine's Day, and you are in need of a photographer, let me know and we can work something out.

Happy early Valentine's Day to you all.

Industrial Photo

2010-01-27T20:03:00.001-08:00

Sculpting Magnifying Glass

Glass by Hugh Willa

Photograph

ToMi Creations Photography

The other day I took some pictures of Hugh working at sculpting. I was playing around with black and white photos. I was inspired to add some sepia in photoshop. I enjoyed the addition of some warm tones and it reminded me a little more of photos of factories from the 1920s and 1930s. This is not a real complicated process but, I felt the result was worth sharing.

Have a great week, best regards.

Self Portrait January 2010

2010-01-20T17:13:00.000-08:00

Focused

Photograph and Digital Interpretation

by ToMi Creations Photography

What we have here is a studio shot that has been used to create a digital image. I finished up a head shot session which was part of a project for the Keller Williams Office in Renton. I was using

a strobe flash and camera mounted Speedlight SB-600, I was pretty happy with the effect. The strobe has one shot left when it is turned off. I decided to grab a self portrait shot. I am looking for an image to do some marketing which inspired the composition and me to do some manipulation.

The composition is about working behind the lens, arm tucked in for solid foundation other arm floating but ready to adjust setting or give direction to subjects. Professional photography takes knowledge, skills and desire to create inspired images which capture the beauty of the moment.

The Digital Interpretation comes from the very important aspect of understanding your subject. Here's the why: sometimes I want to create a traditional image, other times I think you should celebrate the possibilities of digital imaging. Here's the how: I did some magic wand, some threshold, little bit of cutout and some tweaking thus creating the Digital Interpretation.

Clear Vase

2010-01-09T06:50:00.001-08:00

Clear Vase 4x5 Photograph

by ToMi Creations Photography

Glass Vase Hugh Willa

This photograph captures the spark of humanity and the beauty of creativity the artist was able to achieve. It was shot with natural light taken with 50mm lens. The delicate nature of the flower vase in contrast to the practicality of the water glass is emphasized. The focal area of interest is accented by the contrast between the colors of the desk blotter green,brown and white background. Speaking of background, the skull and books elements address human learning which is the only way such a vessel can be created. If I could adjust one element of the photo it would be to move the water glass to the right eliminating the negative space between it and the top of the vase. Many photographs of glass art are taken against a neutral background this photograph for me captures the beauty created by the artist placed in the light of our daily lives. Happy New Years.

Business Attire

2009-10-01T12:46:00.001-07:00

Self Portrait

By Tom Willa

Well, I promised myself to be more diligent about blogging so here is my first post of October.

I was working with a client and we discussed business attire, after the his photo session, I decided to try wearing a tie. So I put on my old friend Winnie. Here is what I came up with. Working on both sides of the lens is tough but, I always try to create photos that captures the joy of the moment. I have a new professional image once again.

Cutting Cane

2009-09-29T23:06:00.001-07:00

Hugh Cutting Cane
5x7 Photograph
by Tom Willa

Wow, where does the time go. That's twenty one days without post. That's our son Hugh glass blowing artist extraordinaire at work. I shot it with my prime 55mm lens, used day light and stopped it down or is that up ( just about wide open 2.o) to help it freeze the motion. I think the fact that the studio was filled with light from the furnace and warm long autumn natural light from a sky light created a harmony of color. I also shot a real estate listing in South Seattle this week, too. I have an early meeting so good night, good day and sweet dreams come true.

FREE September Holiday Giveaway

2009-09-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

Miki, Bella and Diane
4x5 Photograph
By Tom Willa

Here's another shot from the other day. SEPTEMBER HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY

September is really here. It is my birthday month. In honor of this event, I am giving away an hour photo session to the first, fifth and tenth person who calls me (206 940 2162) about portrait photography. This includes the sitting fee plus one 8x10. This offer covers: head shots, family, groups, senior portraits and engagement photos. Photographs always make a great holiday gift.

Family Portrait

2009-09-07T19:43:00.000-07:00

Grandma, Bella and Grandpa

8x10 Photograph by Tom Willa

It has been about three weeks since I last posted. I struggled with the results of another public painting venue long enough to shift my priority to photography professionally. This is one of the photos from the first photo shoot in the new studio. It is formal portrait capturing the air lightness, love and pride.

So now the specialities are Portraits formal to fun, Architectural, and Weddings. I am just letting putting the word out the ToMi Creations web page will be revamped and adding a Facebook page ToMi Photography is in the works. We will still do some paintings and posting but, the focus just has to change. Happy end of summer and remember to keep on the sunny side, Tom

Canna Lily Destiny

2009-08-19T09:30:00.001-07:00

Canna Lily by Tom Willa

5x7 mounted $12 plus shipping

Destiny, this flower photo will become a painting. I am toying with just making into a 11x14 by adding a little more to the bottom edge. The Renton Antique and Art Walk is this Saturday 11-5 will be there with photo, paintings and glass works. If you are in the are stop down on 3rd street, and check out our booth. Have a great day

Peristeria Dove Orchid

2009-08-12T20:05:00.000-07:00

Dove Orchid 5x7

$22 matted and ship in continental US

Photograph Medium Gloss Photo Paper

By Tom Willa

Today, I worked on some of my flower images, I spent a good amount of time matting and mounting some of the prints I have made recently. I am trying to get ready for selling a bunch of 5x7 flower images at Downtown Renton Art & Antique Walk on August 22nd. I wrapped that up for the day, then switched to looking through files for flower images. I found one of my favorites, this dove orchid is the national flower of Panama. My next neighbor in Hawaii grew this species, when he first showed me it, I was awestruck. This flower strikes hope in my heart, I see natural beauty in the image and more. I am pretty glad I rediscovered the photo in my files. I hope you all have a great week and take time to explore the flowers.

Stu Anderson

2009-08-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

Stu Anderson

5x6 Photograph

Stu's photographs were created for the purpose of using on the Internet, online and printed materials. We ended up with several images, this particular one uses double source flash. I like it because it sets a professional tone which help anyone identify Stu. By profession he is a home inspector who you can rely on. His inspection reports goes from the exterior to interior, roofs, crawl spaces to attics documenting and photographing all concerns, creating a precise understandable report of the condition of a residence, building, etc..

World of Possibilities

2009-08-10T09:05:00.001-07:00

Beth, Brian & Seattle Skyline

5x7 Photograph

In The Trees

5x7 Photograph

Yesterday was fun, an engagement session with Beth and Brian who are just a lot of fun to photograph because they have the most pleasant personalities. We explored Parker Park, Seattle Art Museum Walk and some water front images. This morning I did a little editing to one of the photos to explore the creative possibilities. Obviously In the trees, the background I desaturated, I also did some color adjustments prior to taking that action. I am scheduled to shoot their wedding next year, I am able to shoot engagement photos sessions for free to anyone who books their wedding with me. Well Monday is here, I hope everyone has splendid week. The Renton Antique and Art Walk is coming up on 22 August, I post more about that later.

Springtime Daffodils

2009-08-09T06:23:00.000-07:00

Springtime Daffodils

7x4 Photograph

I am plowing through my flower photos from over the years, I found this early springtime image. Miki and I discussed what makes a good flower photograph she summarized it as the difference between a portrait and shot of an event(snapshot). Sometimes it takes a little cropping but the central focus should be of the flower. Defined edges, interesting shapes, highlights, shadows and aerial perspective are characteristics to include while creating a flower photo portrait. It's Sunday morning so, I am not going over the edge with technical chit-chat but want to wish everyone a productive happy week. Aloha Tom

Mount Rushmore

2009-08-07T07:58:00.000-07:00

Mount Rushmore Memorial, South Dakota

8x10

Some days cropping an image comes from the verbage of the earlier post. Thanks for your paitence.

Mount Rushmore

2009-08-07T07:35:00.000-07:00

Mount Rushmore

10x7 Soft Gloss photo paper

Later this evening, I have an appointment to take some head shots, I think this is an inspiration posting. I have another shot which is just the presidents' heads but this one tells a little more about the location of the memorial in South Dakota. Have a great day, all.

Upper Falls & Wine Cellar Entry

2009-08-06T07:28:00.001-07:00

Upper Falls

7x5 75 lb high gloss photo paper

By Tom Willa

Wine Cellar Entry

5x7 Photograph 75lb high gloss photo paper

By Tom Willa

Hi all. Photographic edited is time consuming. I woke up this morning and decided to work on the Upper Falls photo an hour or so later I was ready to print an image. I am working up some of my photos as fine art images. I am going to be selling them online in the near future. I am driven to strive for excellence working in digital images. I have a tendency to take it to the pixel level. I guess it is about understanding the relationship between final creations size and print characteristics which determine final product qualities. These two images one with an hour plus of editing and the other "as is" are a good example of that. The Falls probably could have a few pixels, I might want to chase down and work on, the cellar door has a extension chord which if I were going to print as a large image, I would Photoshop away. I just wanted to share some of the realities of a modern professional photography with all.

O'DELL CENTER

2009-07-31T08:57:00.000-07:00

O'Dell Bridge

O'Dell Pond

Photographs By Tom Willa

This week South King County Event and Wedding meet up group did a show case event at The O'Dell Center. The Center consists of 180 acres of facilities and Grounds honoring the beauty and diversity of the Pacific Northwest. The serenity of this venue for a wedding or reunion is hard to comprehend so I am posting a couple of images of it. I didn't do any painting this week so enjoy the photos, have a great weekend. Stay cool Tom

Twilight Daisy

2009-07-23T20:51:00.001-07:00

Twilight Daisy

Soft Pastel

18x24 Framed $240

By Tom Willa

The good news is that Renton River Days begins tomorrow. It was the catalyst to creating the frame for Twilight Daisy. It now has a koa veneer frame with a double mat. The interior mat is a grey green which adds to the visual strenght of the pedal shadows. Please stop by and check it out we will be at Liberty Park this weekend. Thanks to my friends and family who have sent supporting emails for the Art Sale. Love Tom and Miki

ToMi Creations Sign

2009-07-23T00:08:00.000-07:00

Renton River Days is this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. We will be there under the ToMi Creations Canopy.

Art Sale

2009-07-16T13:55:00.000-07:00

ToMi Creations

Renton River Days T Shirt

By Tom Willa

I worked up this T-Shirt design for our booth at Art Market during the Renton River Days. We are going to transform it onto some shirts. The Art Market will be located where Bronson Way and Houser Way interesect in Renton. The booth hours are 12pm - 8pm Friday, July 24, 1000am - 8pm Saturday, July 25 and 12pm - 6pm Sunday, July26. Miki and I both will have paintings for sale so please if you are in the area, come by, check out our work or say Hi, dee-ho- neighbor. That's run down for now, if you have any suggestion on making a three day event a success please feel free to send us any suggestions. Thanks

Twin Falls Summer

2009-07-15T10:15:00.001-07:00

Twin Falls Summer

By Tom Willa

Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum

7x12 $75 Framed

Twin Falls Trail is a very popular 2 mile trail in the Snohomish area. It is moderate trail with two hills leading up the bridge where you can see the falls. It is a great trail for younger hikers unfortunately during the summer many adults feel it is a playground. The number of children who are unsupervised or not informed that going off the trail will cause serious long term consequences is a little sad.

Enough of that, year round the trail transforms with the seasons. I have hiked it twice with family this year. Once in the spring and recently this summer seeing the falls is wonderful but observing the transformation of the seasons is inspirational, reminding the hiker what a dynamic lovely planet we live on.

Pumpkin

2009-07-15T00:55:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin blown glass

by Hugh Willa

Photographed Tom Willa

I wanted to show you some of the glassware we took to Return to Renton Show. Miki fell in love with this one. I shot it on the way out the door with a flash and my 50mm lens, I rarely shoot hand held images but this one turn out pretty good. These gems have wonderful optic qualities and are quite fantastical. It is way late as a matter of fact it tomorrow. Have a great day.

55 Hardtop

2009-07-12T21:37:00.001-07:00

55 Chevy

Photograph

By Tom Willa

Hugh and I set up a booth for his glass art works today at the Return to Renton Automobile and Art Show. We had a very good time meeting people and I grabbed a couple of cool shots of automobiles. This shot had an ugly Towing Sign on the wall behind the car, bam, Photoshop it out. I really like the composition of the parking lot lines with the image of a classic automobile.

I am a little tired so just felt like sharing, you all have a great week. Thanks to all who took the time to check out Hugh's glass wares especially to those who bought those pieces. Aloha and mahalo nui loa

Daisy Scape

2009-07-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

Daisy Scape

Soft Pastel on Pastel Paper

24x20 Framed $140

Here's the painting from the earlier post, today. I worked with a palette of green and purples palette with beige, pink and blue tints for the daisy. I used a similar style on some paintings while we were in Hawaii, they were appreciated for the contrast which is a little dramatic.

Daisies Grey Study

2009-07-10T07:33:00.001-07:00

Daisy Grey
20 x24
by Tom Willa

Why do I paint flowers? I am greatly motivated by concept of capturing their beauty. I think many have a concept of what flowers should look like, I sometimes have to work hard at not painting a symbol for a bloom. I attempt to capture the essence of a flower by painting a realistic image while using some abstract techniques glorify the beauty I see and feel. All this being said, I am approaching this painting with a value study in greys which I will use as under painting. Stayed tuned folks,to see the final image.

River Stream

2009-07-08T20:05:00.001-07:00

River Stream

9x12 Pastel $75

by Tom Willa

Wow, more than two weeks have flown by since I last posted. Miki opened her show at the Cormerstone Coffee Cafe in Bremerton last Friday. Her paintings will be showing there through the 31st of July. Stop by check out original paintings of the Northwest, her glass blowing series and some great still life priced to be very reasonably for all.

This is a painting from last summer road trip. I remember we were in Maine's Mountains very close to Canada at a camp ground that was a canoeist favorite launch site. I was thinking about the water in some of the eagle images that I hope to create and decided to continue working on the water in this painting for practice. Now it is done.

During my sister's visit we talked some about the joy of artistic creation. She makes beautiful quilts which are inspirational unique. I think she has a lot of fun with the challenges that are required in that process. I've decided to paint some more flowers(not a big surprise). I am going to go big and bold while sowing some fun for myself. So stay tuned and for now "That's All Folks."

Flyer Framed

2009-06-23T15:07:00.000-07:00

Flier

9x14 Soft Pastel

By Tom Willa

$78

Hi happy Tuesday. I posted the framed image from last Wednesday. I had some trouble so it ended up a little smaller than I had originally planned. I also grabbed a different camera and shot this under incandescent light. I usually only shot in natural light but wanted everyone to have an impression of what it looks like in house light. The true color is closer to the blue in the original image. I try really hard to make my pastel paintings easy for anyone to buy, receive and hang up. Sometimes as an artist you finish your work controlling the process other times not so much. I think the cropping of the Flier painting gave the eagle a little more intensity which I accepted. Have a great week.

Haiku Mountain Meadow

2009-06-21T15:51:00.001-07:00

Mountain Meadow

By Tom Willa

Soft Pastel

9x11/framed 11x14

$78

Happy Day to all.

A framed mountain landscape

Sky, mountains, meadow

Trees wildflowers

Pathway morning shadows cast

Majestic beauty

Winner Tulip Image Giveaway !

2009-06-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

Vicky you have won , Royal Reds. Congratulations.

Thanks so much to everyone who participated. I appreciated the kind comments and appreciated hearing from all.

Flying

2009-06-17T11:28:00.001-07:00

Flying

10x14 Soft Pastel

By Tom Willa

$78 framed plus shipping

Here is first one of the eagle series. After working yesterday afternoon and all this morning on this painting it is done. I am going to frame it in a white frame we picked up at Daniel Smiths. It was painted to fit in the frame.

Last day of the Tulip Image Giveaway . I have to go get some lunch then do the framing for Flying. I hope you all have a great week, peace

Rose Bloom

2009-06-16T08:19:00.000-07:00

Rose Bloom

5x7Photograph

By Tom Willa

Here's the rose by another name, June is filled with opportunity for me to make cards. Everything from family birthdays, anniversaries, etc.. I sometimes just can't resist the temptation to do some digital editing so this is June Bloom being prepared for use on a card. It is a little more in your face, I used some channel mixer adjustments to bring out the yellow while posterizing after cropping it to format it for a card.

This is the week:

TWO DAYS left in the Tulip Image Giveaway Contest.http://tomsimages.blogspot.com/search/label/Floral-tulipsYou have to enter to win, one of these FREE original images, it would make an excellent gift for a friend or family member. They range in size from 5x7 to12x16. I will post and annouce Friday who the lucky winner is of one of these images.

Hunter

2009-06-13T12:26:00.001-07:00

Hunter

8x5 Pencil Drawing

By Tom Willa

First and foremost, thanks to Rich who took some awesome photographs of this eagle. He takes the best images of birds I have ever seen. He gave me permission to use some for paintings. I was working on some shading and light lessons with the number two pencil last night which turned out pretty decent. This morning I woke up and decided to do a study of this eagle for amusement. It has been about ten years since I painted any birds so it maybe time, that and movement of the water are my current inspiration. So I hope you like this and are amused, too.

On another note,

only five days left in the Tulip Image Giveaway: You have to enter to win, one of these FREE original images would make an excellent gift for a friend or family member. They range in size from 5x7 to12x16. Thank you to all of you who have participated to date, Floating Tulips and Royal Reds are tied for first place. Hoping all have a happy day.

Living Room Built-Ins

2009-06-11T08:09:00.000-07:00

Photograph

By Tom Willa

10933 SE 235th St

Kent, WA

Only one week left in Tulip Image Giveaway. Today I am figuring out how to use hyper links, a little more efficiently. It hit me like a sack of bricks that my posting of the links for The Giveaway may have add an extra step in the process, now I think I have that under control. The link on the photograph leads to a slide show of the property in Kent I shot on Tuesday. To my friends who I worked with in marketing hopefully you are doing well. You know I love making the bells and whistle images not those pesty mechanics. I got a little carried away with the links here but, I haven't figured out how to clear them on this site. Have a great day.

June Bloom

2009-06-10T17:07:00.001-07:00

June Bloom

5x7 Photograph

by Tom Willa

Tulip Image Giveaway only Eight more days left. Today was spent editing photos for real estate David Edwards had me shoot a new listing in Kent yesterday before my indoor cycle instructor audition. My focus today was very random but I managed (imagine is more fun than managed) to get the project completed. I snuck out sometime this morning capturing one of the roses in the backyard. I am little tired out, I did some yoga this afternoon which slowed down the internal chatter. I am considering this as an image to print on canvass and touch up with the oil pastel but that's another day. I wish you all well. Peace

Pink Bloom

2009-06-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

Pink Rhododendron Bloom

12x9 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Color fix

by Tom Willa

$60

Ten days left in the Tulip Image Giveaway . Painting is like life, letting going sometimes it is hard. I was trying to use an more abstract background for capturing this backyard beauty but, I didn't quite go completely down that road. It is funny because the sketch and notes I did looks a lot like the painting. What you plan for sometimes is what you get. Painting rhododendrons is a challenge after years of painting hibiscus in Hawaii. The similarity of the process works both ways, I did a lot of large floral in Hawaii, so I decided to paint up a smaller image just to keep my brain from using symbol of hibiscus. I think that worked for me but the challenge of the background may have to addressed in another painting. Sometimes you have to accept what you made, going with the flow and knowing when to move on.

Early Lupins

2009-06-05T13:36:00.001-07:00

Early Lupins

By Tom Willa

Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Color fix

8x12 $70

Lupins are another one of my favorite flowers. These beauties pop up a little later then the rhododendrons. I selected a split compliment palette for this painting. I wanted to keep the blossoms and the foliage in contrast, I think the palette helped achieve that end. The foreground details against the background abstract helps draw the focal area to the blossoms,too.

A reminder about the Tulip Image Giveaway get out there and make a choice to win.

Have a great day,

Tulips Original Painting and Photo GIVEAWAY

2009-06-04T13:08:00.000-07:00

Eight Tulips Image Creations 09

by Tom Willa

WIN A FREE TULIP ORIGINAL PAINTING OR PHOTOGRAPH!

Choose your favorite and let me know which one you select by posting a comment on this blog.
You may also send an email, or message by carrier pigeon. I will confirm receipt of your choice within 48 hours (Longer if by carrier pigeon.). Everyone who votes will be entered in a random drawing to be held on June 18th, 2009. The winner will receive the creation they selected. It will be shipped matted, ready for framing. If you would like more information about individual images or want to view more details of each one, click on the label Floral-tulip in the sidebar. Thanks for taking the time to choose your favorite tulip image.
Best regards happy summer,

Hearts and Trees

2009-06-04T08:51:00.001-07:00

Hearts and Trees

7x5 Photograph

By Tom Willa

Here's the last in image in the Tulip Series. That means later today or tomorrow, I will be posting the information about Winning a Free Tulip Image. Stay tuned it is going happen.

Luipin Rainbow

2009-06-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

Rainbow Lupin

Photograph 4x6

by Tom Willa

I am always glad to see Lupins blooming. I used my creative license to merge a lupin and rhododendron photo creating this image which celebrates summer. Photoshopping the two images using layers is dramatic when one using the overlaying blending option with some opacity adjustments, a little bit of masking to soften the edges,cropping. I am runnig a little late this morning, I spent the morning filling out an entry form for a booth at Renton River Days July 24, 25 and 26. I have some yoga to do and more errands... where does time go?

May Flowers

2009-05-29T09:18:00.000-07:00

May Flowers

Photograph by Tom Willa

8x10

May Flowers is an afternoon photograph of the fence in the backyard. The light on the fence with the rhododendrons blooming reminds me of Secret Passage in Anna Haina which was the access to one of the world's best surfing locations..that's another story. I really like the composition, it is solid enough to stand on its' own or could be used as background for outdoor portrait session. I touched up the fence with the stamp tool and used it to take out a ground spot light that was a distraction. I am bouncing back and forth between painting and photography so stayed tune to see what will post up. Thanks for stopping by, have a great week's end.

Red White and Blue

2009-05-25T01:13:00.000-07:00

Red Rhododendrum Blue Bonnet and White Fence

Pastel on Art Spectrum Color fix

7x10

By Tom Willa

I hope all are well. Best regards Tom

Winter Passes

2009-05-23T04:52:00.000-07:00

Winter Passes

Photograph 7x10

by Tom Willa

This is a couple of photos I took in the last week. I combined the shadow of our Japanese maple tree with shot of a pink rhododendron in the back yard. I left little touches of the background from the rhododendrum image and the blind's shadow to bridge the images, together.

I hope all have a peaceful Memorial Day holiday. Best regards

Bonnets

2009-05-16T09:47:00.000-07:00

Bonnets

8x10 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Color fix

By Tom Willa

$70

This is the fourth painting posting in a row. That's a good thing. I saw these flower blossoming a couple of weeks ago during a walk in Renton by the Cedar River. I was captivated by presence of beauty of these small flowers. The individual bloom, the cascading strength of the blooms of each plant and majestic quality of the groups of plants springing up combining to celebrate a new season of growth. Winter is a tough season for me, I am so glad that flowers our blooming. The coolness and dark values maybe a little over stated but like the seasons my paintings seems to be tied to my emotional state. Be happy and live.

Red Yellow

2009-05-06T12:12:00.001-07:00

Red Light, Yellow Light

6x9 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Color fix

by Tom Willa

$60

May tulips are still hanging around this is number six in the series. I may have one more of these in me but the tulip series is just about over for '09. I found these two growing in a yard of church in downtown Renton. I have a photo shoot this afternoon so I can't dilly dally to long, have a wonderful Wednesday. Peace out.

Purple Step

2009-05-04T13:37:00.001-07:00

Purple Step

12x16 Pastel on Art Spectrum Color Fix

By Tom Willa

$90 matted 16x20

Hi everybody. The tulip series continues. I scouted out some purple tulips growing around town, they became the motivation for a little surrealism. A long time ago when I first started painting, I kept a dream journal (college course assignment) it was fun. Like writers who keep the note pad by the bed you keep your sketch book on the night stand. It was a kick to wake up start drawing subconscious thoughts consolidating them onto a page. I think this is where my habit to wake up start painting immediately and my fine tuning of painting image concept mentally comes from. Well the day has begun to slip away, I have to go the gym for some exercise before the rain storm arrives. Stay dry,stay comfortable and most of all stay happy with you.

Pink Light

2009-04-27T16:26:00.000-07:00

Pink Light
8x10 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Color fix
by Tom Willa
$65 , $75 framed

April 27th the day after Arts Unlimited art show, it was a very comfortable location at the Taste of the Landing in Renton. We had space in a vacant commercial building with plenty of space. Everyone was most pleasant, the number of people was okay, the reality of showing at a combination event was no sales for us. Our 10x10 space was expanded to 15x10 which makes everyone a lot more comfortable. The hard part about a day like that is getting motivated to paint,again. This made me realize why I paint is to capture the beauty, presenting others with my view of loveliness. So that hurdle seem to vanish quickly and quietly this afternoon. The last couple of days I have been thinking about this painting while getting the framing done. So today I was very enthused about it. I actually did this sitting down on a very small board as an easel. I used a new set of faber-Castell 24 soft pastel Sticks basic colors which I picked up at Daniel Smith while getting framing supplies. I enjoyed painting the blossom on flat surface first because all the pigment stayed on the surface which allowed me to use some nu-pastels to blend them in. I worked the background keeping with the style of my tulip series which turned out pretty good. Finally I need to set up vertically on my easel to make some texture strokes, touch up and additional blending. I may add a few more paintings to the series because I enjoyed doing this paintin a lot and we went for a nice walk and saw some more really beautiful blossoms.

Pink Delight

2009-04-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

Pink Delight
4x6 Photograph
by Tom Willa

Today I spent most of the day in the framing workshop preparing The Arts Unlimited Art Show Date: Sunday, April 26Time: 10 am - 4 pm (there will be a 5K race that starts at 9:30 am)Location: The Landing is located off exit 5 on I-405. It's a new urbanvillage development in Renton - just south of Lake Washington.The Arts Unlimited Art Show is scheduled to be located in an empty retail-space on block east of the intersection of N 10th Street and Logan Ave N at the round-a-bout.

I needed to get several pieces into frames. My commitment to painting had to go to the back burner for a couple of days. I have decided to post a photo from my visit to the garden this morning. I will work on turning Pink Delight into a painting once I get all my framing for the show completed.

Royal Reds

2009-04-23T17:07:00.000-07:00

Royal Red Tulips
8x10 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Color fix
By Tom Willa
$65 matted to fit 11x14 frame

We had another sunny day. Spring may have arrived. Here is number three in the tulip series. I am working on getting my fuchsia recovered beside painting these days. I have decided that I am going to do a give away once I finish this series of tulips. My plan is to post my the details here and on my face book wall. I let you know how to sign up once I get the next two paintings create. Have a great day, stay healthy, be happy.

Floating Tulips

2009-04-22T20:10:00.000-07:00

Floating Tulips

9x12 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Color fix

$50

by Tom Willa

Today was an uplifting experience. I have been hiding away from the easel, I'm glad to be back. One could consider this my second in a series of painting about tulips. Tulips are huge here in the Northwest, they are short lived but abound around the Sound. My goal is to paint 5 in this series so keep you eye out.

Tom Willa, Graphics

2009-04-14T18:14:00.000-07:00

CD Cover

by Tom Willa

It is spring, some days here in the Northwest. I painted a couple of fuchsia paintings last summer. I used the photo as a reference. I applied for a graphics job last week, I am thinking about posting an online portfolio. This creation is a little tidbit I made a couple of days, ago as an asset for that. I want it to be attention grabber also it should represent what I see as beauty. The photo is good, vertical text for effect, with contact info, a basic three layout. I like the photo series a lot. One or a combination of them may become an inspiration for a large studio painting.

Gathering Glass Artist, Cross Processed

2009-04-09T12:20:00.000-07:00

Gathering

Photograph

By Tom Willa

This photograph was tweaked to resemble cross processing from back in the days of wet processing. It was a practice which added saturation to the blacks and caused some shifting in other colors. I also am trying to figure how to create a glass blowing photo alblum in Picasa, making them available on my blog or from my facebook. It is kind like driving somewhere knowing where you want to get with any specific directions.

Spring Tulip

2009-04-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

Spring Tulip

8x10 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum

By Tom Willa

$65

I have been doing some juggling of priorities in the last week. This is my studio painter creation, after ignoring the easel for more than a week I have spent many hours defining this painting. I jumped into on Monday got it to a point yesterday. Today I have obsessed on it to the point where it is wise for me to sign it and put it out of sight. I hope you all enjoy the flower, have a great week.

Jade Plant

2009-04-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

Jade Plant
16x18 Digital Vector Image
By Tom Willa

Yesterday, I bartered this beautiful black and white Jade Plant Image for some barbering.

Creative bargaining

Architectural Rendering

2009-04-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

4613 231st Avenue SE
Issaaquah, WA 98029

Photograph

By Tom Willa

This morning while we checking out the local Library hours I saw an architectural rendering of the facility. It struck me that I could accomplish the same effect with one of my images using Photo Shop. A little bit of filter, duplicate layer and some blending options, this is what I came up with. This is one of David J. Edwards listings now on the market. I had to postpone my photo shoot of Ian to next week due to some scheduling conflicts. I should grab some food, seek some wisdom and be happy.

Beth and Brian

2009-04-06T14:52:00.000-07:00

Beth and Brian

4x6 Photograph

By Tom Willa

Happy Couple having a good time, this is one of the shots from a couple of weeks ago. I used a 85mm lens as a prime which really had me doing a lot of backing away from people. The formatting on my camera turns that into a 127mm range. I am enjoying the 50mm this week as a prime. I am scheduled to take some photos of Ian working as a pastry chef, tomorrow so you may see some more photography this week.

Focus

2009-04-04T20:50:00.000-07:00

Depth of Field

Photograph by Tom Willa

Today I was working with the 85mm lens at Avalon Glassworks . It was an interesting experience Hugh was working with Sean a fellow glass artist at an open house event. I got some great shots which will probably make their way into paintings or some photographs. The glass studio seems to yield interesting creations for me as a photographer. Avalon Glassworks Studio was a very pleasant experience in West Seattle if you in the Northwest you should stop by. I am going to let the photo speak for itself my wrist seems to be paining me at the moment. Have a great week

Collage some more

2009-04-02T20:09:00.001-07:00

Glass Blowing Collage

By Tom Willa

Yesterday, I wrote an article for Biznik about Photography. One of the elements of good composition photographic technique was not placing a single subject by itself in the center of an image. This collage seems to be the exception. Alix is the star surrounded by several other photos. I used Picasa to generate it. Next time I may explore the envelope capabilities a little more.

Collar Pick up Glass and Photos

2009-03-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

Photo Collage

8x11

by Tom Willa

Here's some digital design from a photo shoot at Viscosity. I pretty much got lost in the photos, what you see above is Hugh working the process where sections of cane are fused together to form the vessel which than is blown and formed by glass artist. There is a name for the technique but it eludes me. I have been experimenting with different lenses yesterday was a 50mm 1:1.4D which worked out because it was fast. The depth of field is the tricky in relationship to f-stop, the shutter speed to image clarity, all have to be balance to the intensity of the light. I used some of the my camera auto focus functions to help. I positioned my self where I would be shooting from, then adjusted the shutter speed to a wide open aperture before the molten glass was in the scene. I had to tell myself while shooting that any slower the 1/100 shutter speed would create focus difficulties. I was pretty satisfied with this approach, the three photos above are the pickup, smoothing and finishing with adding a lip and handle. I used Photo shop to manipulating the photos size and shape into a document adding a gradient to finish up. Updated March 31,09

Onset Sphere

2009-03-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

Onset Sphere

6x9 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Colorfix

11x14 matted $55

By Tom Willa

Here is another gem of glass being made. Hugh has a wonderful new creative sculpture series, Culture Cells, that he has designed and currently is in the process of producing. (See image below.) It involves a lot of optics, spheres and cold work to make one. We visited the gallery while he was making a sphere component for one. I snapped the photo because I could sense the glass starting to transform into a sphere. In my painting, it was my goal to capture that moment where the bubble starts to takes on the characteristics and form achieved by Hugh's efforts.

Culture Cells

By Hugh Willa

B AND B

2009-03-25T16:16:00.000-07:00

Baby and Auntie B

Photograph

By Tom Willa

Painting seems to be slipping away from me this week. But I had a pretty good weekend shooting in Spokane. This is one of photos from this last weekend, eat your heart Mayberry. Today was a real estate shoot for a residential property. I have to do some photo editing to do later. I really enjoyed the event shooting because there is so much energy with the people as opposed to kitchens and bedroom photos. I just felt like saying "Hi" to the blogosphere.

On The Bench, Vase:

2009-03-24T23:25:00.000-07:00

Glass Vessel
Designed, Blown and Photographed
By Alix Cannon

Here it is, the Vase which was produced by Alix Cannon The painting On The Bench resulted from my observing her craft this vase a couple of Sunday mornings ago. The two solid color masses dramatically accentuate the lovely clear cane middle, while the fluid shape also contributes to the majestic beauty of the vase.

On The Bench

2009-03-20T10:38:00.001-07:00

On the Bench

by Tom Willa

8x110 Soft Pastel on ArtSpectrum Colorfix

$75

On the Bench is the result of our latest trip to the glass blowing studio. It also sums up a lot of where my creative efforts are taking me this year. It was painted in the studio from a photo. Photos, yesterday I finished up a real estate photo shoot for David Edwards in Issaquah. It was a magnificent home with wonderful windows, an office and great layout.

I really love taking photos and painting. I am off to shoot a family event tomorrow. I am going to try out a 85mm lens. Sometimes the peace of pursuing what we have passions for is little consuming. That relationship creates a larger conflict when you are trying to make a living. The contrasts in this latest painting represents some of those emotions. Warm and cools, spheres and linear, abstract and realism kind of sums up how it feels some days.

I will route an image of the finished vessel and post it for you to see at a latter date, time to finish organizing for the shoot which also involves doing a traveling packing and a quick yoga session to keep me sane

Flower Vase

2009-03-16T12:17:00.001-07:00

Flower Vase

12x18 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Colorfix

Another rainy week, I appreciate the suggestions about the wall color, thanks. I come to an impasse on deciding which one will be there when this is finished. I also decided to give it a rest before it enters the overworked collection. The list: I touched up the the tulips shadow to include a little more local color, the reflection gained some red, the vase has taken on some blue tint.

I've decided to pursue glass being created in the studio. Our visit to Viscosity and pick up a plate for a friend from Hugh yielded some photos. My goal is to capture a sense of intensity and motion of the molten glass while being formed. That, should be what you have to look forward from me creatively speaking.

Flower Vase

2009-03-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

flower Vase

12x18

Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Colorfix

Winter flower paintings are a tradition for me. It started way back in 05 with a trip National Botanical Gardens in D.C.. This year the flowers are in a vase in the living room/photo studio. I am seeking anyone who has an opinion, which background works for you? I didn't labor very much in Photoshop but wanted to give you the impression of changing background wall colors. The blue was supposed to cool down the wall but the temperature and value may have driven it into the warm range. Anyway please if you like one better than the other let me know? Many mahalos and happy trails, Tom

Glass Blowing

2009-03-11T14:21:00.001-07:00

On The Pipe

6x9 Soft Pastel on ArtSpectrum Colorfix

By Tom Willa

$55 matted for 11x14 frame

Here's today painting. I wanted to paint in March and post it. Miki started working on a Series about glass blowing her first painting is posted. She has captured the furnace's heat with her painting. Glass blowing is difficult and intense subject to capture in a painting. She is definitely my source of inspiration. My design layout was to capture the molten glass which is the beginning of the bubble. Additionally in the background is a paddle with some freshly made cane cooling on the floor. My next painting should be a winter floral with a vase blown by Hugh. To see glass blown by Hugh visit French Curves their etsy page.

Winter Rhododendron

2009-03-09T16:13:00.001-07:00

Snowy Rhodie

9x12 Soft pastel on ArtSpectrum Colorfix

By Tom Willa

$75 matted

ready for framing

Winter seemed to be making its' presence felt today. This is my painting for today. I did this painting when the snow started back in December. It pretty much sums up my feelings about winter. I love the beauty of it but, always am ready for spring. Today, I spent a lot of time reading some technical photographic material and trying to figure out how to make Picasa and my blog create a slide show. I think my Picasa albums have some strange setting that is keeping me from sharing them with you. I hope to be able to share another new painting this week. The easel is my friend and the computer can be a large pickle.

Spring Bloom

2009-03-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

Daffodils

8x10 photograph

by Tom Willa

$25

Some days it is good to think about the future. I was at a yoga class the other day where we were doing all the breathing from the core, finding a focus area, etc. while trying to find the balance of the tree pose. The instructor told us about choosing a focal area, focusing down being the past, focusing straight ahead being the present and focusing up being the future. I think this is my tribute to springtime, after a couple of days filled with sunshine, rain and snow showers this is my way of looking up into the future.

Seagull

2009-03-07T16:39:00.000-08:00

Seagull

15x18 Soft Pastel 0n Art Spectrum Colorfix

By Tom Willa

$165 matted

Here's one of my first paintings of this year. It may not seem to you that "out of the box" compared to some of my other paintings, but it was a challenge and fun to attempt. I attended a presentation by by Bill McEnroe at the annual meeting of the Northwest Pastel Society. I really like his "Sequim Lavender" painting.

I was inspired to attempt a similar creation. I was impressed at his intention being to honor barns in his painting. My intention was to honor the seagulls and the ocean. I also wanted to make sure I didn't overwork my painting. I decided to use a pane of glass with an area of magnification to take it "out of the box."

Custer Road, Lakewood, WA

2009-03-06T18:24:00.000-08:00

Custer Road, Residential Property

By Tom Willa

Today was a beautiful Northwest day. I got the call to this morning to shoot a listing. I scheduled it for an afternoon session. Tomorrow I'll do the editing for this listing but I wanted to share what keeps soup in the pot.

Plein Air through the window

2009-03-05T13:33:00.000-08:00

Late Winter Stump

9x12 Soft Pastel on Art Spectrum Colorfix

By Tom Willa

$75 matted

Here is the painting of the stump in our backyard. It was completed in the warmth of the studio. I was motivated by the return home from Arizona with the desire to paint plein air. The painting took on the challenge of having the easel in place inside the studio for a few days. The stump catches light on sunny afternoons but has a cool feel on the typical Northwest overcast day. My value study sketch was completed on a sunny afternoon while most of the painting was executed during one of those overcast days. I had the desire to meld both of these winter day temperatures together for the feeling of spring being around the corner.

Twilight Daisy

2009-03-04T09:33:00.000-08:00

Twilight Daisy
18x24 soft pastels on Art Spectrum Colorfix
By Tom Willa
On Hold

This painting is about soft summer dusk lighting. Additionally, the intention with this floral creation is to present the beauty of a flower in bloom. I emphasized the contrast between dark and light, used warm and cool hues to encourage the viewer around various focal areas. The beauty of the flowers reminds me of the beauty of people. Sometimes one should slow down enough to experience it. Although, once you have that beauty it creates a joy that lingers within one for quite some time.

Studio Portraits

2009-03-03T09:23:00.001-08:00

Lisa Smile

by Tom Willa

8x10

Lisa Serious

by TomWilla

8x10

Studio photography is fun when both the model and the photographer are committed to achieving a photo that captures a range of emotions. I think many people would appreciate studio images of themselves or their families as time passes. The controlled lighting of the studio creates the opportunity for a formal arrangement which captures beauty and personal aura.

Glass Blowers

2009-03-02T08:11:00.001-08:00

Glass Blowers

7x5 By Tom Willa

This another photo from our trip to Uptown Glassworks in Renton. The team is putting together a sphere using an Italian technique. The rods of cane are fused together to form a cylinder. The cylinder is then shaped into a vessel. In this case, Alex is shaping the creation into a sphere. That is simplification of the process.

Capturing pictures around the a glass studio is an interesting challenge. Nothing is still (hands, people, even the molten glass are always changing) , the temperature of the the glass is around 2000F, the intense light from the furnace and the glass can be an interesting contrast to the studio lighting. It is a tough assignment for a photographer. I love to capture the concentrated intensity of glass blowing. It is like shooting an event from a documentary point of view, the opportunity for shots come fast and "look this way and freeze" is not an option.

Cactus

2009-03-01T07:27:00.001-08:00

Cactus

12 x 9 soft pastels on Art Spectrum Colorfix

by Tom Willa

$75 matted

I enjoyed the Arizona desert around Sedona very much while attending a mentoring workshop with Michael Chelsey Johnson. I challenged myself to obtain a deeper understanding of color temperature while employing the relationship of values. The discussion about these aspects of painting helped me greatly to comprehend the importance to producing quality creations.

This is a studio creation where I made a concentrated effort to reinforce those concepts. It is a Friday night special after recovering from the journey home. It is designed from a photo I took outside the house where we stayed. I found the colors of the cactus vibrate with a combination of warm rich reds and yellows complimented by cooler green blues. The desert was filled with color temperature relationships that were breath taking.

Uptown Furnace

2009-02-28T08:37:00.000-08:00

Uptown Furnace

By Tom Willa

This is one of the glory holes at our local glass blowing studio. I took this picture from about twenty feet away. I adjusted the curves function and used the watercolor filter after cropping the photo.