In the Studio (photo A. Boverman/Gloucester Daily Times)
Looking back, 2013 was a big year for me, my first year on the Tour in coordination with moving into my new studio from my downtown Rockport location on School St., where I had been for a few years. The Tour format worked great: a steady stream of engaged viewers, so enthusiastic and focused on seeing art and meeting the artists one-on-one to get an understanding of the source and how things are made. I feel very privileged to be part of this committed and diverse artist group. This is a real treasure map. The other bonus was being able to participate in the 30th anniversary show, “Cape Ann Artisans at 30”, at the Cape Ann Museum.
Afternoon, 28×42, oil © Diebboll 2014
Looking forward, the 2014 Tour is around the corner. Over the winter I’ve done a number of large oils, and I’ve noticed how my process has evolved. I’m spending more time on these large pieces, developing the compositions, the colors, the relationships. There is more intricacy and intensity of light. I recently finished “Afternoon”, which grows on me more and more the longer I sit with it, watching its series of waves and figures play off each other.
I’ve also been experimenting with oil on paper. These are small studies. I’m finding the paper really soaks up the pigment, making a very rich color impact. I’m trying various techniques: wet, dry, different brushes, etc. The approach, despite also being on paper, is very different than my watercolors. Take a look at my blog to see some of these.
In addition to painting, we’ve been getting the gardens ready for you. Last year the grass was just starting to grow, but now the gardens are in their second year and filling in. Feel free to walk around after your visit, with the ocean waves rolling in the background and birds singing in the nine-trunk, “fairy ring” oak. There may still be some lilacs in bloom, mixing their scent with the salt air.
The Studio (right)
Rob Diebboll
www.robdiebboll.com
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