Image of the Day, September 22, 2012

Winner of the Buffalo Bill Art Show and Sale, “Signs of Spring” by Nicolo Balkanski

The judges who awarded Balkanski first prize and the $20,000 purse explained in a joint statement: “Balkanski has created a narrative that engages the viewer in an anecdotal moment. The barn tells the story of an accumulated past, and as with anything or anyone who is a little worse for the wear, the barn is still up, still functioning, but is fairly worn. With his painterly strokes, the artist went to extraordinary lengths to create this piece for this particular show.”

Nicolo Balkanski
“Signs of Spring”
2012
Oil on canvas

The Artist’s Studio: Part 1

By Donna Poulton

Even with the familiar smells of turpentine, linseed oil and paint dominating your sense of smell, the artist’s studio can be a mysterious place to visit—an alchemical chamber where elements are mixed, stirred and modeled to become valuable impressions of beauty. Although most studios have high ceilings, towering north facing windows and waxed wooden floors, they can tell a lot about how an artist chooses to work, the props they use and the ambiance they need to be inspired. 

Frederic Remington’s studio at Endion, his home in New Rochelle, New York. Credit: CarterMuseum.org

Frederic Remington Studio recreated and on view at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Wyoming. Credit: Buffalo Bill Historical Center 

Charles Russell Studio. Credit: Carter Museum

Joseph Sharp Studio. Credit: Buffalo Bill Historical Center

Joseph Sharp Cabin: The Absarokee Hut, recreated and on view at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center. Credit: Buffalo Bill Historical Center