Happy Birthday Rodin!

The Thinker- 10" x 13" by Greg Newbold

Today marks the 173rd birthday of one of my all time favorite sculptors Auguste Rodin. Few sculptors have made such a lasting impact on art as Rodin. I have had several opportunities to witness firsthand, the brilliance of his work and whenever I do, I never cease to be moved and amazed at his passion and skill. Perhaps the most iconic sculpture ever created is Rodin's The Thinker.

Rodin's The Thinker

I used this piece as an inspiration and homage when I was asked to create a cover for The Village Voice's literary section many years ago. The articles were all book reviews relating to war, it's aftermath and the effects on the people of such regions. I thought The Thinker would be the perfect metaphor and so I constructed him emerging from the wreckage of battle with gun still smoking. The small flower growing amidst the rubble represents the hope for a better tomorrow. I think Rodin himself would be both pleased and amazed at the staying power his work has had. Thanks for the inspiration and Happy Birthday Rodin!

Check out this nice tribute to Rodin at Artwife Needs A Life

New Van Gogh Painting Unveiled

Sunset at Montmajour-  by Vincent Van Gogh- circa 1888

For the first time in decades, a previously unknown work by Vincent Van Gogh has been authenticated. As a painter and fan fan of Vincent's work, I am excited to know that there are yet surprises that the Dutch master can reveal. In  a press conference at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam today, the painting was revealed.

Artwife Needs a Life has done a more extensive post about the work and how it went from authentic, to a fake and back again in the last century. Check out the post here.

I have my very own Van Gogh. Check it out here.

Days of '47 Float Preview

An animated Wilford Woodruff catches a fish on this float. (my favorite of the show)

Ever wonder at the artistry it takes to construct those great parade floats you see every holiday? Well, here's a chance to check it out up close and personal. The floats that take part in the annual Days of '47 Parade are on display today and tomorrow at the South Towne Expo Center here in Salt Lake City. It's free and runs from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm both days. We took the boys and Grandma and had a great time checking out the amazing constructions. It was fun to see them up close and decipher all the different materials that went into these creations. Everything from giant animals carved out of foam to flower buds made of recycled drink bottles painted pastel colors. I spied construction foam, crafting foam in all it's forms,  neoprene who knows how much paint and tons and tons of glitter. My wife has started a spiffy new blog that has a more detailed post on all the fun stuff we saw there. Her blog is all about things to do and see with or without the kids. Check out the link below

Check the Days of '47 Parade Float preview on Artwife Needs a Life here