Current Art Thinking

In my most recent paintings literal shape of musical lines and physical gestures of playing the cello have been translated into first pencil lines and then into thematic shapes within the paintings.

I have recently discovered that I am fascinated with time and our place in it. Or perhaps it is our perceived place in it that is so interesting. Seconds, decades or centuries can seem to completely collapse in on themselves. Visiting ancient sites, seeing old art or artifacts, or looking at old family photos can create that kind of experience. I haven’t found a satisfactory visual answer yet but I think the search for even moments of capturing that wonder will keep me inspired for a good long time! I believe that creating art is a way to say thank-you to the planet and to all who have had the chance to live here.

I love painting in layers, adding on and scraping away. (See my recent discovery of oil and cold wax mentioned below. I’m psyched!) I often add texture underneath using assorted mediums depending on whether I’m using oil or acrylic and then continue to add texture on top. After sketchbooking and testing ideas I ultimately follow the paint and see where it takes me. I used to paint completely with a sense of improvisation and find I move back and forth between planning and discovery. I think life is balanced that way as well.

Some News and Updates

We are busily art-ing, music-ing and taking care of the three cats. We have actually moved to Midlothian, VA, leaving the DC area behind. I lived there for forty years, so it is a big change. I’m into QiGong these days while still doing some Iyengar yoga. Fortunately I’m back in the pool as well. While I’m not teaching or coaching swimming anymore I still enjoy it and it is a sanity keeper.

Art News! I just started putting some of my paintings up on Fine Art America. My page is here! FineArtAmericaDeborahMilanBrudvig. Come take a look! You can buy originals or prints.

I finished my Painting Certificate through RISD’s continuing education program in May of 2024. I’ve also recently taken an introductory class in cold wax medium. I expect I’ll be using this technique a lot moving forward. It is wonderful for my desires to mix media and create layers.

In early January 2024 I spent 8 days in Rome taking a portrait workshop with Roberto Osti. I enjoyed meeting great people, seeing and making lots of art, visiting historic sites, and sharing coffee, gelato and other great food. Puntarelle is fantastic. Plus I accomplished a bucket list item of getting to and into the Pantheon. It was magnificent!

ART and MUSIC EDUCATION
Painting Certificate/RISD continuing education

Certificate in Computer Graphics, Corcoran School of Art

Cello performance undergraduate studies, University of Michigan/Bachelor of Music, Boston University/Master of Music, University of Maryland

My teachers have included Peter Kucirko, Sammy Mayes, George Neikrug and Evelyn Elsing. Chamber coaches have included Eugene Lehner, Leslie Parnas and members of the Guarneri Quartet.

TEACHING and PERFORMANCE synopsis

21 years, Washington Conservatory of Music

4 years, adjunct instructor NOVA Community College, Alexandria, VA

40 years, freelancer: National Cathedral, Wolf Trap, Kennedy Center, Arena Stage –everything from orchestras to pit orchestras to chamber music, weddings and recording sessions.