The Art of James English Babcock

Wine Country Exhibit

2011-02-09T20:39:00.000-08:00

James English Babcock will showcase a collection of works depicting Sonoma County's lush wine country region at Woodruff's Artisan Foods and Cafe Marcella. This new restaurant venue is located in Sonoma County's west end known for it's wonderful Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, in the quaint bohemian town of Sebastopol, California.

One of James' original pieces, Fall Morning Light, a 24 x 48, acrylic on canvas, of the Russian River Valley, is among this collection of fine art. The exhibit runs from January 24th to June 30th, 2011. For further details of this exhibit please refer to the contact information below.

CONTACT
Woodruff's Artisan Foods & Cafe Marcella
966 Gravenstein Hwy S.
Sebastopol, CA (Located in the courtyard behind Starbucks)
Phone: (707) 829-2141

Website and Directions

Updates for February 2011

2011-02-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

In the News: Wine Country Exhibit
In a Word: At the Heart of It
In the Know: Framed Ideas
Archived Letters: Old News & Notes

Check it all out at www.babcockoriginals.com

In Stock!

2011-01-25T20:13:00.000-08:00

In Stock!
Cards of every kind and size!
That's the word from what I hear!

So...you'll want to check out your options for purchasing quality greeting and note card images of the Art of James English Babcock. Each card and envelope is made from premium card stock paper.

Babcock Originals Card Shop at Zazzle.

Newsletter Page

2011-01-18T16:48:00.000-08:00

You'll want to check out the new Newsletter page added to my website. Current news will be added each month in the format shown below.

Updates for January 2011

In the News: Held Over, Reflections of Yosemite

In a Word: Thoughts Regarding 2011

In the Know: Product Update, Card Shop News

Archived Letters: Holiday Show 2010

Hope you enjoy! Email me with your ideas and comments by using the contact form located on the website as well. Go to www.babcockoriginals.com.

Blessings to all for a grand new year!

Jim

Here's the Plan for 2011

2011-01-05T20:30:00.000-08:00

... defined in just two words, "Slow Down!"

Well then, you may ask...will I continue to work my day job? Do I have plans for upcoming shows and exhibits? Am I studying new methods and putting into practice those elements within my painting process? Yes, yes, and yes again!

But, with all that said, taking life at a slower pace, while gaining more energy, just might open the doors for greater opportunities as I experience rest within the day, rather then the hurry up and crash mode that seemed to define 2010.

So, with that said, here's the plan:

Don't hurry through the work day.
Paint and study, when rested...however long that takes.
Enter less shows, but look for more representation.
Spend more play time with family and friends.
Have a glass of red wine every day!

Held Over

2011-01-05T20:04:00.000-08:00

Two original paintings remain on exhibit at Sierra Hills Framing & Gallery. These two paintings have been held over from December's holiday show titled, Reflections of Yosemite. Purchase inquires can be made by contacting gallery owner Tom Jones of Sierra Hills Framing. An extended 10% discount will apply towards the purchase of these two paintings.

Morning on Merced
24 x 36, oil on board
Copyright 2010 James English Babcock

Aspen Glow
24 x 36, oil on board
Copyright 2010 James English Babcock

Contact
Sierra Hills Framing & Gallery
531 G Street
Lincoln, CA 95648
Map/Directions

(916) 645-1144
sh@sierrahillsframing.com

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T21:02:00.000-08:00

Watch for New Event & Exhibit Postings for 2011

HOLIDAY GREETING

2010-12-13T15:32:00.000-08:00

This One Precious Thing, May You Be So Blessed To Know The Beauty Seen ... Within A Christmas Snow. By Clara B. Ray
YOSEMITE FALLS REFLECTED 24 x 48, acrylic on canvas Copyright 2010 James English Babcock			,

Professional Touch

2010-11-18T14:49:00.000-08:00

Need a Pro? Meet a Pro!

Keith Sutter Photography

Well, found that new photo pro I've been looking for, and yes, I am very pleased! Professionally photographed work sure makes all the difference in the world on the presentation of ones art!

Check out more new 2010 paintings posted to my website under the Current Works tab at www.babcockoriginals.com .

Emerald Pool, 30 x 40, oil on canvas, copyright 2010 James English Babcock

See earlier post titled, Hot Off the Easel, referencing the frustrations of photographing ones own work.

Reflections of Yosemite

2010-11-10T11:19:00.000-08:00

Do you love Yosemite and all its splender? How would you like to take a trip during the fall season when the hardwoods are dressed to the nines in brilliant hues of amber glow, or perhaps an exhilarating hike up one of its many trails to vistas unseen? Well, that trip can be as close as your own backyard or a weekend jaunt to the foothills just twenty-five minutes north of Sacramento, California.

Yes, this holiday season, you are invited to attend an artist reception hosted by gallery owner Tom Jones of Sierra Hills Framing & Gallery, featuring a collection of works created from my many hiking adventures to Yosemite Valley, and several other High-Sierra backpacking trips.

This reception is in conjunction with the City of Lincoln's Christmas Parade and Tree-lighting event, held in Historic Downtown Lincoln. So, please come out early, you won't want to miss the other festivities, as its old fashion holiday spirit will kindle a warm glow in your heart as you prepare for your own holiday gathering.

Doors open for this event Sunday evening, December 4th, 2010 at 5:30 pm and run until 8:30 pm. The exhibit will be ongoing until January 6, 2011. I am looking forward to visiting with you as you are out and about this holiday season. Refreshments will be served and further details of this event can be found in the news release below this post.

Thoughtfully,

James

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 10, 2010

Event Contact: Tom Jones
Sierra Hills Framing & Gallery
Phone: (916) 645-1644

Artists Reception and Exhibit
Hosted by Sierra Hills Framing & Gallery

Lincoln, CA - Sierra Hills Framing & Gallery will feature a collection of works showcasing Yosemite Valley and other High-Sierra vistas by award winning representational landscape artist James English Babcock. This event is held in conjunction with the City of Lincoln's Holiday Parade and Tree-lighting event held annually in Historic Downtown Lincoln.

During this free event James will meet and greet while answering your questions regarding his heart for painting landscape art and sharing from his many hiking and backpacking experiences in the beautiful Sierra Mountains. Refreshments will be served at this evenings event.

EVENT DETAILS:

Art Reception & Exhibit featuring local Artist James English Babcock
Sunday, December 4, 2010, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
No Admission Charge

531 G Street, Suite B, Lincoln, CA 95648 (Historic Downtown Lincoln)

Directions: (Link to this location provided by Google Maps)

Phone: (916) 645-1644

Email: sh@sierrahillsframing.com

Website: http://www.sierrahillsframing.com

Fabulous Show Extended by Popular Demand!

2010-10-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

You won't want to miss!
ArtStock 2010

Extended Show Dates until December 31, 2010

Directions: www.highhandgallery.com

EARLIER LINK TO THIS POST

Sold: In Support of Lottery for the Arts!

2010-10-18T22:20:00.000-07:00

Merced River in 8 x 8 Dimensions

Committed to arts enrichment in our community, I am so pleased that my donated piece was sold at this years Lottery for the Arts at Roseville Arts Blue Line Gallery. I'm looking forward to supporting this endeavor once again in 2011.

Check out this link for info on Lottery for the Arts

Artistic Talent Collaborated!

2010-09-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

Come join me at this outstanding venue exhibiting an array of very talented artists. One of my original pieces, Fall Morning Light, will be on display for viewing as well.

Celebrating High Hand Gallery ArtStock 2010

This month long Sculpture and Large Format Painting Exhibition will delight your senses and feed your soul. High Hand Gallery is currently the 4th Place winner of KCRA 3's A-List.

"BEST Art Gallery 2010"

Savor this unique self-guided tour in the historic High Hand fruit shed showcasing local artists. This is a free event and is open to the public.

Additional events during the ongoing exhibit are:

Sunday, October 3 Harpist Beverly Hoehn will be playing at High Hand Gallery beginning at 1:15 p.m. This is a free event.

3rd Saturday Art Walk Reception - Saturday, October 16th, Encore Cafe will be playing from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. There will be light appetizers. This is a free event.

Friday, October 22, Flute & Didjerido concert featuring David Blonski from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. There is a $15.00 fee for this concert event.

ArtStock is sponsored by High Hand Gallery and High Hand Nursery and Conservatory.

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For more information go to www.highhand.com.

Remember these dates!

October 1st - November 7th, 2010

LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING YOU THERE.

Supporting LOTTERY for the ARTS!

2010-09-22T17:13:00.000-07:00

Join me in support of Roseville Arts LOTTERY for the ARTS, see my donated piece, and take home an original work of art!

The Lottery for the Arts is a fund-raising event that provides art collectors with an opportunity to acquire original works of fine art, while supporting a non-profit organization and community of artists.

For more information follow this link!

Hot Off the Easel

2010-08-31T12:37:00.000-07:00

First Light on Yuba

30 x 40, acrylic on canvas

I began several paintings at the beginning of 2010, subject matter related to my 2009 Fall vacation spent along the Yuba River here in Northern California. Shown here is the first of three paintings I have been working on throughout the year, and I have just finished tying upon loose ends on this one, First Light on Yuba.

I have always been captivated by the first light of day, so I make it a priority to get up before dawn just to catch that glorious moment, and early morning light upon the North Fork of the Yuba River is incredible. I'm pleased with this piece, but not so with the image I have posted here. I think the next time I'll give myself a little more time before I'm so quick to post a finished piece hot off the easel. There's a BIG difference in having a painting professionally photographed compared to my indoor photo work, and for all my learning there's still a lot of room for improvement. Perhaps I'll re-post a new image once I have a pro take his shot at it.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy this new work as much as I do. Oh, and by the way, follow the link to related post regarding the inspiration behind this piece from last years vacation painting experience, Dusting off the Ole' Outdoor Easel.

New Arrival!

2010-08-29T21:20:00.000-07:00

Falls at Monticello

30 x 40, acrylic on linen

Link to earlier post Adventure at Monticello

Adventure at Monticello

2010-08-15T20:00:00.000-07:00

A PICTORIAL ESSAY OF PREP WORK FOR

FALLS AT MONTICELLO

ABOVE THE BEAUTIFUL NAPA VALLEY

ALONG THE SOUTHEASTERN RIDGE

I VENTURE FORTH

DOWN THE CANYON WALLS

PAST FUNGI FLORETS

THROUGH THICKENED FOREST

INTO THE CANYON DEEP

THERE'S PLENTY OF INSPIRATION ALONG THE WAY

BRIGHT LIGHT, DARK SHADOWS

CREATE AN ENCHANTING SCENE

AS I SET-UP FOR MY STUDY

NEAR THE FALLS BELOW MONTICELLO ROAD

MY TRUSTED FRIEND, BUCKEY,

IS ALWAYS UP FOR A NEW ADVENTURE

Online Presence Pays Off!

2010-08-03T12:05:00.000-07:00

When Curator Rosie Stilwell opted for a "new artist on the scene" to exhibit in this years Summer and Fall season of the Auburn Art Walk, she chose to look no further than the many online opportunities that have been made available to artists through art council/gallery and event posting sites.

And, thanks to the shear persistence of my wife's efforts to research every available online opportunity out there, (besides the key presence of our web and blog) and than posting my work and name up on every thing she could get her hands on, it made it a cinch when Rosie went searching. Sometimes I thought, and she did too, that perhaps this was a bit of an overkill. But, if it wasn't for these efforts I believe Rosie would not have found me or my work. It's a lovely thing when someone comes a callin', especially while trying to establish oneself, and it goes to show that persistence in our efforts eventually pays off.

So, thanks to this lovely lady, I'll be showing several different works from my collection of Northern California's Rural Countryside at Latitudes Restaurant. If you ever take a trip to this famous gold rush establishment, OLD TOWN AUBURN, Latitudes is a great place for sharing a gourmet meal fresh from the local farmers market and savoring a glass of wine from Placer County's wine growing region while enjoying the artistry of local artists and musicians. Its one of the Sierra Foothill's fine dining and entertainment spots. Remember to check out dates, times and location for this upcoming event listed in the links and news release below.

Looking forward to seeing you out for an evening of fun and relaxation!

Thoughtfully, Jim

Events and Exhibits Link: Dates, times, and directions

The Auburn Journal: Plan for an Artistic August in Auburn ... Those new to the Auburn Art Walk include... Lincoln artist James English Babcock showing oil paintings at Latitudes...

__________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Karen Killebrew

(530) 885-5670

karen@PlacerArts.org

Enjoy Art Around Town during August 12 Auburn Art Walk

November 5, 2010, Auburn – The public is invited to enjoy the Auburn Art Walk , a free city-wide reception from 6 to 9pm on Thursday, August 12. The Art Walk will showcase original works of art displayed in thirty-four local businesses and venues throughout Downtown and Old Town Auburn. Artists will be on hand to meet the public and talk about their work.

A total of 31 venues will participate including new venues Eclectic Home downtown on Lincoln Way and Lighthouse Real Estate & Art Gallery in Old Town.

First time Auburn Art Walk artists include Linda Hao of Sacramento showing her oil paintings at Audio Editions; Marilyn Anhalt of Lincoln showing Ceramics at Avantgarden; Grass Valley artist Yvonne Roberson showing oil, acrylic & pastels at Monkey Cat; Jan Newell, Colfax, showing oil paintings at Creative Urges and Lincoln artist James English Babcock showing oil paintings at Latitudes.

Special student shows include the “Native Clay Experience” by ceramics students of D. Pierre Butler at The Arts Building; and a Youth Advisory Commission exhibit at Auburn City Hall. Also at City Hall will be state flowers created by Linda Pietz’ Placer School for Adults students and “planted” on the lawn, which won an award at the California State Fair. Me Gusta Baby! will show the work of students in their new art classes.

The Arts Building Gallery will feature the Pastel Society of the West’s annual membership exhibit. The Sierra Nevada Native Alliance will sponsor Native America flutes and drums at The Arts Building.

Pick up a map of the August Auburn Art Walk, including all artists’ names and venue locations, at The Arts Building, 808 Lincoln Way in Auburn, or at any participating venue. The map is also available online at PlacerArts.org/artwalk. For those who wish assistance moving about the walk, a free shuttle is provided.

Further information about many of the artists may be found on PlacerArts’ online Artist Registry at registry.placerarts.org.

Auburn Art Walks are held on the second Thursdays in April, June, August, and October. Since 1994 art enthusiasts have enthusiastically enjoyed an evening of strolling through the beautiful foothill community of Auburn, enjoying art and art demonstrations, fine food and live entertainment. Art works are for sale and remain on display for two months in partnership with the host business venue.

Auburn Art Walk is presented by PlacerArts in cooperation with the Auburn Arts Commission and the Downtown Business Association. PlacerArts is the Arts Council of Placer County, a non-profit, public benefit agency, and the designated state-local partner of the California Arts Council for the County of Placer. For more information call PlacerArts at (530) 885-5670 or visit www.PlacerArts.org.

* * *

Find more about these artists on PlacerArts’ online Artist Registry:

Thanks for the Kudos, Sue!

2010-07-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

For some time now I have been following Sue Smith's blog, Ancient Artist: Developing an Art Career After 50...WOW, CHECK IT OUT! I would recommend this site to all who are in the business of pursing an art career, whether you are 50 and beyond, or not. Sue has a wealth of experience and incite regarding art and the business of art that many of us could use. I confess it has brought plenty of encouragement my way, more than the author knows.

So, today I would like to say thanks Sue, for all your hard work, many posts and wisdom sent out to us fledgling artists, some of which like me, are still working a full-time job while juggling their art careers.

Not long ago, Sue contacted me asking permission to re-post my recent video interview with Roseville Arts Blue Line Gallery to her blog. Below is a copy of her article from her Sunday Salon post regarding this interview. I had no idea that stepping out in accepting an interview and than posting it to my blog would warrant a shared post request. Thanks once again, Sue, and this time for believing in me and than sharing my idea with more persons than I could have done.

_________________________

Sunday Salon: Sitting Down with James English Babcock

I "met" California artist James English Babcock through Facebook. Recently, he posted a video for his fans. I thought it was such a great idea that I asked if I could share it on this blog. How many of us have enjoyed art openings and wondered how we could promote our art beyond the standard email or postcard mailing, or wondered how we could make our blog posting more interactive? We hear lots of ideas about promoting our art, but how are those other artists doing it?

James English Babcock took the opportunity at a recent art opening of his to create a YouTube video interview with himself, which he then posted to Facebook as well as on his blog. It takes a bit of planning, learning how to make and post a video to YouTube, and then arranging for the time at the gallery space before the crowds. But, wouldn't it be fun to include some of the crowd action, too?

James English Babcock "is a self taught landscape artist with a focus toward realism," as the bio page on his website will tell you, but the images of his very large format paintings felt to me to be the equivalent of "being there." I particularly enjoyed reading about how he prefers the back roads and out of the way views of his California Wine Country location, rather than painting the vineyards. I hope you will check out his work. Here is the link to The Art of James English Babcock website and the link to the blog is here.

Link to Earlier Post: An Interview with James English Babcock

A League of Their Own ...

2010-07-05T14:42:00.000-07:00

Local news posted by Lincoln News Messenger

Through July 30, Placer Arts League is presenting a juried Fine Arts Competition and Exhibition in the Lincoln Arts and Culture Foundation building at 580 Sixth St.

Auburn resident and Nevada-born sculptor and painter, Douglas Van Howd was juror for the show that features many local artists. You can view his works at www.douglasvanhowd.com.

Lincoln artists include James English Babcock (oil/acrylic).........
...... for more information about the show and Placer Arts League,
visit http://www.placerarts.org/pal.

View original article through this link
See earlier blog post: Autumn Canopy Gets It's Day In The Sun

Extended Show Dates at Evans Kitchen

2010-07-02T20:43:00.000-07:00

FEATURING THE ARTWORK OF ARTIST JAMES ENGLISH BABCOCK
SHOW RUNS UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

Venue location and operating hours

An Interview with James English Babcock

2010-07-02T18:07:00.000-07:00

Earlier post links

North Coast Inspiration

2010-06-18T18:38:00.000-07:00

Drakes Bay Farmhouse

24 x 36

Oil on Canvas

$1,850.00

In September of 2006, my wife and I took a hike along Point Reyes National Seashore at the beginning of our honeymoon stay, along California's North Coast, before heading out for higher elevations in the Sierra's for the rest of our trip. This lovely farmhouse setting adjacent to Drakes Bay caught my eye and as usual I photographed much of our adventure that day, knowing that I would eventually paint this trip.

Drakes Bay Farmhouse is the first of what has transpired from this inspirational trip. Below this post, I have inserted an original photographic image of this scene, to give you an idea of the reference material I use for creating my paintings. As I remembered it, the sun played hide and seek for a good portion of the day. I chose to capture, in my painting, the moments of brilliant light that filtered in intermittently through the clouds, creating a brighter hue of gold upon the hillside meadows and lighting up the bay with a fuller, richer shade of blue, giving my painting a brighter tone than the photograph itself.

Currently the original painting, Drakes Bay Farmhouse, is on display at The Place! Gallery until the end of June 2010, after which you may inquire about it's purchase by contacting Babcock Originals studio office. Contact form and information link have been made available through my website at www.babcockoriginals.com

Point Reyes National Seashore

Artist Showcase

2010-06-17T15:21:00.000-07:00

I have been using D'Orazio Digital Imaging for several years for all my giclee reproduction work and portfolio images. Owner, Bud D'Orazio has recently added a new link to his website titled, Artist Showcase. Take a moment to visit this link and check out the work of others artists who use his services as well. Bud's workmanship is far above excellent and working with him is always a pleasure. Quality workmanship, quality individual!

Artist Showcase Link

Autumn Canopy Gets It's Day in the Sun

2010-06-14T20:18:00.000-07:00

PlacerArts League Juried Open Show
James English Babcock
Exhibiting Autumn Canopy

The Placer Artist League invites the public to attend the annual Open Juried Show at Lincoln Arts Gallery in Lincoln, California, opening Tuesday June 14 and running through Friday, July 30. Acclaimed Artist/Sculptor Douglas Van Howd will jury this event.

Artist Reception at Lincoln Arts Gallery
Saturday, June 24th
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location:
Lincoln Arts Gallery

580 6th Street
Lincoln, CA 95684