In the present moment.....grace

Welcome.

This watercolor on watercolor board was a prayer.....is a prayer. Specifically it is adressing something other than the great creator, yet more like all of creation. It is birth, death, birth and the tapestry of life here on the planet, delicate,strong, interlocking. It is a serious intention of gratitude for all of the grace I enjoy. It is respect and reverence. When I am mindfully aware of these qualities in a day I sleep with contentment at night. The quality of my life takes on a lightness. My art becomes an effortless flow. I am.

I want to wish you a happy new year. I wish you a year filled with personal grace in your life, all that you can hold in every present moment.

Alan

More to come.......

All art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

In a silent way.......

Welcome.

"In a Silent Way" was the first piece I ever heard by Miles Davis. I was curious because I had read about him in a novel. The very cool main character, one that I would emulate listened to Miles. I gave it a shot. I was behind the curve as he was a generation or two in front of me and so while I could hear strains of the Rolling Stones, The Beatles and Grand Funk Railroad all enjoyable mind you I hung with Miles.

It is true that I often hear a musician and feel as if they know what I know. Secret stuff, ideas from another dimension. Play the notes between the notes....beautifully I might add. This was a new idea with Milestones, Kind of Blue, So What.

Occasionally I will include something from my studies. This is one. It was meant for a series. The series would feature 20 or more muscicians that I can't do without and my unique link to them often, with the art expressing something of the feel of the music.

It is pencil, ink, watercolor on paper. The story from the liner notes was written by Richard Williams. This is how I work on projects. First the thought, then the research, then the sketch and on to the finish with all manner of experimentation and exploration on the way. Perhaps like Miles, playing a note, hearing it and responding with a new note that follows but only in relation....modality improvised. Can you dig it?

Also from time to time I will mention what astounds me. Maybe it will inspire you too. The first is a duet on youtube of Yo Yo Ma and Lil Buck....where the dancer becomes the music and the music and the dancer transcend into the infinite. The second is a Painter named Ran Ortner, at one with himself,nature,art and life. Again, you may be inspired.

More to come.....

All art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

The girls of summer

Welcome.

Perhaps I need to look it up. Who was the designer of the sundress? Just want to know so I can say thank you!

Whether I am in the city, the country, the beach in the summer, each woman I see floating in a sundress down the boulevard, beach or dusty lane just brings an easy harmony to my senses.

You put a flowered straw hat on her and notice that she is going neither fast nor slow. She is completely aware that she is loveliness itself and is content to simply 'be' with the sunlit moment. (or so I imagine)

This one is 20x24 inches oil on canvas. Available $3,500.00 US plus shipping. They happened to be spectators at a polo match. There's an understated casual elegance in play here, don't you think?

Hope all of you had a healthy, joyful and happy Christmas. Those of you who celebrate it.

So far I have had the good fortune to have an audience in the USA, Canada,Mexico, Venezuela, Russia, France, Ukraine,Turkey, Columbia, Phillipines,Latvia,Australia,China,Malaysia,United Kingdom,Germany, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, Japan,The Netherlands, Poland, Lithuania, Romania Denmark, Peru,Argentina, Egypt, Italy, South Korea, Brazil and India. Thank you for checking out my art. I feel honored that you take the time.

More to come.....

All art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

More to come...

Well played....

Welcome.

Here's another from the polo series. Once the match was over the competitors and rivals were once again companions and ready to kick back in an hour or two and retell the tale of the day's adventure. This scene from The Greenwich Polo Club riding off the field to the holding area, trailers and stable hands.

This one is a 30x40 inch oil on canvas unframed. It is available for $5,000.00 US not including shipping.

When I look at this piece I get a feeling of serenity. I have ventured many times out on to the playing fields of sports (not polo,yet) and have lasting friendships both with teamates and opponents. In the end playing the game is the success.

More to come....

All art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

18th street summit.....

Welcome.

Boy it's been a while, too long actually since I hauled out my Tim Chew 9 foot longboard and performed my walking on water ballet. More likely performing an unceremonious headplant, lol.

This was a small oil study 11x14 inches on canvas. It was sold. The original price was $1,000.00

Here is a spot that every local knows. It occasionally has a nice right break. Great thing is that it's a the top of the hill where this spot is and you can ride your bike,gravity board or your scooter to look down and see where the surf is at and whether or not you should paddle out. Though I did live by the maxim, "when in doubt, paddle out."

I liked the color harmonies in this. I liked that it said 'stop' and 'one way' and 'beach.'
'Bout sums it up nicely.

Just a reminder, if you have a favorite coastal spot you want to capture for eternity for yourself or a gift I am open to discussing your ideas to make a fine art oil painting that will be a legacy to future generations. I'm the artist you call when a one of a kind is what you had in mind. You can reach me quickly at alanlovesart@gmail.com

More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

What ever kindness you show to the least of these.....

Welcome.

Nature humbles me.

It especially gives me perspective when I see small creatures who make their way in the world in the wild with far less resources than me to be safe, fed, and enjoy the day. They do this without complaint as far as I know, they endure and persevere, looking so beautiful doing it.

They are experts at being what they are, where they are and who they are.

This was a magazine piece for the magazine Water's Edge. The author of the story found this beautiful little turtle by the side of the road and then decided she would like to have it as a member of her family and spoke to me with great affection for it.

Lucky turtle as it was now certain to have the security of food, a safe haven and happy people to look at...lol!

The painting was sold to author. It was a 15x20 inch watercolor on watercolor board.

Also, I want to say thank you to all of you who check in, view and appreciate my work each day.
Thank you.

More to come.....

All art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

A New Day, A New Dawn.....

Welcome

It's a new life, and I'm feelin good. Now imagine you see me at 7 years old and I got the old turntable going on the family stereo and found Nina Simone singing this tune, I am singing along like I am on stage with as much soul and style as a 7 year old boy can muster......and I'm feelin good.

I get the same feeling each time I take my fresh brewed mug of Seattle's Best dark roast coffee and walk the path down to the beach just as the sun has lifted over the horizon. The air smells fresh, it's quiet and it's a chance to give thanks for another day.

This one is oil on canvas 12x14 inches and is sold. $1,000.00

Got a view you adore? Got a place you always wish you could have a view of in your living room? Thinking about a  project that is just speaking to you for coastal art? Then get in touch! I am available for commissions and happy to discuss particulars if you have a coastal theme in mind. Simply contact me at alanlovesart@gmail.com with a brief idea and your contact information. Residential or Corporate. I will respond within a day.

More to come....

All art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

The Choices We Make.....

Welcome.

Thank goodness for the people that grow food, right?

I eat mostly whole foods fresh as I can find, grown locally and organically, grown on land that is cultivated and sustained in a healthy way. That is a choice and my body thanks me for it daily.

 I like art that is itself unto itself yet also can be a metaphor in a narrative. Most of my art has a spiritual meaning and intention beyond what is on the surface disguised as a genre painting. This one is an example. Editing, culling discovering what to keep, what to discard are questions I ask myself daily.

Along with coastal and estuarine venues, farms and orchards are favorite haunts for me both as a pleasureable experience and as fodder for my camera and canvas.

This one is a watercolor on watercolor board and is approx 15x20. It is for sale @ $1,500.00 US plus shipping unframed. If interested contact me at alanlovesart@gmail.com

More to come.....


All art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Ride like the wind

Welcome.

I probably saw my first polo match when I was 8 years old. It was at the Myopia Hunt Club in Hamilton Massachusetts. Have you been to a match? Fantastic isn't it?

Grace,power,speed,strength and skill in action make it a thrilling way to spend
a few hours on a Sunday afternoon.

As an artist there is color, figures, depth, landscape, beautiful horses and people a sense of excitement in an almost festival atmosphere, not to mention delicious picnic goodies that people bring to the spectator grounds, fun,fun,fun. It's even more fun to make the art of polo into the art of the artist!

This one was at The International Polo Club Palm Beach, Florida USA. It is from a series of 6 the other five are scenes from The Greenwich Polo Club in Connecticut, USA.
oil on canvas 30x40 inches and is available at $5,500.00 US. unframed Contact Alan Phillips @ alanlovesart@aol.com if interested.

More to come......

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Now and then.....2-22

Welcome.

This is a portrait of my daughter Haley at age two and now at 22, this study done this morning of a shot I took on Thanksgiving Day. Very hard to capture beauty with a few lines and I am not sure my drawing defines that exactly but the essence of her personality is point on. Smart, funny and great to be around. The top one is watercolor on watercolor paper and the bottom one pencil on sketch paper.

 I love being an artist. Only one thing was and is more fun, more rewarding, more interesting, more work, and more satisfying and that is being a dad. Her dad more precisely.

She recently commented on a photograph of me holding her in my arms hours after being born. "Looks like you are in awe, dad." she said. Worried beyond compare was more like it, I must have checked her breathing 12 times a night when we brought her home. By George I'll make sure I keep this child alive or die trying...I thought,lol. Right. No question. I remain in awe to this day. So perhaps I'll declare December 7th honor and appreciate your kids day. They are in every way a miracle. We all are.

Much love to you Haley girl from dad.

More to come....

All art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Farewell to Beebe...wooden ships on the water

Welcome.

If you smile at me, I will understand for that is something everybody everywhere does in the same language...I love that line by Crosby, Stills and Nash in their song "Wooden Ships."
This could have been Beebe's theme song.

In our lifetimes there are those that appear for a moment, a season or a lifetime. My friend Barbara Tenney set sail on a new journey two days ago. I was fortunate and blessed to have known her, been inspired by her and the recipient of her resources, time and love. In my heart and mind she will always have a presence and so it is for a lifetime. Thank you.

 I send you off with joy for your journey. May you have bright beautiful skies and a gentle but firm breeze and relentless happiness on your journey to the next harbor, your next destination or the four winds and the heavens take you.

And it's a fair wind blowin' warm out of the south over my shoulder, guess I'll set a course and go..... (CSN)

With gladness,sadness,respect,love and admiration, farewell my friend.....

Alan

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

wabi-sabi, a humble approach.....

Welcome.

Wabi-sabi is a new term to me. The concept in my being as wabi-sabi is as old as I am. It was evident to me sitting on a concrete sidewalk as far back as I can remember, running my fingers over the grains feeling the texture and the warmth of the sun touching the surface, split, cracked, worn, functional and beautiful.

Spiritually speaking; it is older than time. My introduction came by way of an article written by David Netto for the New York Times about The Tribeca Penthouse of The Greenwich Hotel which was titled "The Luxury of Humility."  Ira Drukier and Robert De Niro are among those with the vision to embace such a beautiful enterprise.

The visionary to promote the idea of this Japanese aesthetic of acceptance, transcience and imperfection for the construction and interior design was Axel Vervoordt. As it was explained, wabi meaning sober refinement, sabi meaning patina.

What carries this message more than a simple clam shell and a few strands of sea grass in a small patch of beach, lit by the summer sun? It is interesting to me in the art that I make to observe those who observe. So many responses are available. Most people walk right by this little 10x10 inch oil on canvas painting in my studio. A rare few stop to ponder. Those who I consider sharp ask, "Why would Alan, who can paint anything vast and majestic pick a subject so simple and humble?" Why, indeed? Look at the texture, imagine the warmth of the sand, the coolness of the shell to your touch.

When I first viewed the beautiful photography by Francois Halard of the space in the penthouse I thought to myself, "Boy, I could really get some work done there."  One of the aspects that the directors of this work of art asked is, "Would the uninitiated get it?" A key aspect of the Wabi in the well designed space is psychological well being of the occupant....this is what I meant by getting work done there. It is a space for clarity of being.

I would love to find a project like this to be involved with for my work. I do feel, as it is with most of my large scale paintings that this particular interior could use a counterpoint, something lush with understated color, sensual, harmonic as I walk about in sober refinement with patina....you know..playfully!

More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Just wanted to drop you a line or two......

Welcome.

Although most of what I do feels like play most of the time it takes a great deal of time, planning, calculation, legwork, thought, concentration, perspective,dedication and preparation to make a 'finished' work of art and this includes realism through abstraction.

I cannot speak for any artist but me and this is my process every time. Yet when I have the free time which means not on deadline or needing to get to paying bills and I have a moment to be in the studio and just 'play' experiment you might say and not focused on the outcome. I like to have fun with the materials. In this case pencil on paper 16x24 I believe.

Here, I think you can feel the energy, directed but not controlled, loose but not chaotic
dimensional but not rendered, suggested with flow and restraint at the same time. It reminds me of some of the stuff Bailey shot in the 60's...which I still think is some of the best fashion work ever done. Please add Richard Avedon, Horst P Horst, Irving Penn to that list.

Remember to visit Zazzle.com and search under sunnybeachman for my watercolors on a huge range of items that would be perfect gifts for the holiday season.

More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Sanctuary is a state of mind....

Welcome.


Well, for me it's also the state of Florida, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Georgia....you get the idea. There are so many wonderful places on this planet where one can go to just be. I have only seen a few. A place where your 'smart' devices are irrelevant. Imagine that.

This particular place was in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida and for a few hours I just took deep breaths of the ocean air, wiggled me toes in the sand and listened to the waves. I had a dialogue going with the waves, the gulls, the trees and the shells. Sometimes I just like to go and let the elements 'have me' and when I walk the path that leads out from this place I have been transformed into a healthier, happier human.

This was an oil on canvas, 11x14 inches sold

More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Reddish Marsh Heron Study

Welcome.

These birds in flight and wading for dinner are as about elegant a scene as I find on my adventures around the shore. Great Blues, Little Egrets, Great Egrets
Little Blues, Snowy Egret, Black Crowned Night Herons,Bitterns, Green Marsh Herons and Cattle Egret are my neighbors in the marsh.

If you stay tuned over time you will see many of them in my work or as a featured subject.

This one is a watercolor on D'Arches paper. It is in a private collection.

Hope everybody's Thanksgiving was delicious and happy. Throughout the day I found that there were so many more things to be thankful for that I had overlooked. Sometimes it takes a moment to slow down and reflect.

More to come....

All art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

The Ultimate Dubliner.....

Welcome.

This is a very stylized portrait of James Joyce that I completed some time ago. I know this is a place where mostly coastal and wildlife genres rule, however I think Mr. Joyce may have enjoyed a wild life for a moment or two.

Thing is, sometimes I look at older works and well, quite frankly they hold up. I was always fond of this one. Considered Ulysses, Dubliners and A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man required reading when I was an artist as a young man. Great literature, writers and books have been faithful companions and beloved educators in my life since the time when I could read my first sentence.

It is an oil painting on canvas 22x18 inches.

One of the things I admired about Joyce was the strength of his mind, his determination and unapologetic conviction of his talent and it's value. Besides every girl's crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man. Thank you ZZ.

Here in the USA we are on the cusp of our Thanksgiving celebration. I am grateful for so much in my life. I wish all who are reading this whether celebrating in your country or not happiness in your life and to notice all of your own good fortune. Thanks for checking in.

More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Lazy afternoon in St Augustine.

Welcome.

What is it about taking a nap? Choosing a perfect spot with perfect light, perfect quiet or outside with a perfect breeze. It could be a big comfy chair, a welcoming couch, a secluded window seat or my personal favorite a Chesapeake Hammock. The big schnooze, under and out, a spellbound quick dream no more than an hour. You wake up feeling refreshed, renewed, revived and rejuvenated! Ah, but that that sensual, delightful descent is what it's all about. You snuggle down, no cares and then drift into bliss.

This was a very good friend of mine. Her beauty was classic and she carried herself with style, taste, smarts, manners, elegance and a generous heart. She was a gifted napper.

I painted this one as a watercolor on watercolor board 30x40 inches it was sold for $4,500.00 US.

More to come....

All images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Oh, I remember days when it felt like it was raining daisies.....

Welcome.


The first time I heard that line it was sung by Kenny Rankin but equally as profound sung by John Sebastian to a different arrangement. I thank them both for I smile big when I hear either of them.

Imagine a day when the temperature is in the low 70s. She is smart, beautiful, funny, confident charming and an athlete (tennis, swimming and fencing). She speaks four languages conversationally and has pitch perfect taste in fashion and food.

This was such a day. She was on her way to have a picnic with me in a place that only we knew. Baguettes, bordeaux and some pellegrino were packed in her bike basket with a riot of daisies and I brought the blanket, the camembert, wine glasses and an anticipation of immortality. Our affections were strewn about the landscape with tender abandon. There were such days once upon a time. They were hers and they were mine.

The wisdom of the sages suggest that when you have a choice; choose happiness. It is however a state of mind that must be defined. This painting was one of my happy moments in time, in my life.

It is a watercolor on board 24x 12 inches. Sold. $2,500.00 US. It was purchased by a scientist in the USA.

Don't forget you can visit Zazzle.com and look under sunnybeachman to find many watercolors I have done printed on phone holders, caps, mugs, t-shirts and items too many to name!

More to come....

All images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Gratitude for those who give....

Welcome.

All over the world there are people who give their time, money, talents and love to those in need. Thank you.

This is the life saving station in Jacksonville Beach Florida , USA. The adults and the kids that work there and save lives there work their tails off in training and alert readiness preparation. You can get a look at the new recruits getting a punishing regimental workout each day in the begining of each new season.

As an artist when I first moved to the area it was a 'must do' item for me to put on my list to paint . It has that old mission style architecture and always enjoys the sun from every angle in the sky each day giving it a prominent landmark position on the beach for miles.

This is a watercolor on board 20x30 inches. Sold. The original asking price was $3,500.00 US

Volunteering is a thread that holds together the tapestry of our humanity evident in our works. Salut

More to come....

All art and images on this blog copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Miles from nowhere....

Welcome.

Miles from nowhere, Guess I'll take my time, Oh yeah, to reach there...what a great line from that Cat Stevens tune. I often feel that spirit when I get a chance to wander in a new coastal terrain. I do take the road less traveled. I am actually in pursuit of it. My lifelong friend Kerry once said to me, "We are the ones clearing the path of the road less traveled."  KT had wisdom to spare.

There are times that I question the logic of this. There are times that I know I would not have been immersed in such abundant splendor had I not taken that road.

When I am barefoot on soft sand walking towards a vista of calm ocean and enjoying the rainbow of color reflected in the clouds during a sunset, it brings me a feeling of wellness every time. I send that thought off to you right now.

 This is an oil painting on canvas 18x24. Sold. $3,000.00

More to come......

All images and art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

A quick sketch of Claude

Welcome.

Every now and again even though I make my living as an artist it's fun to do a sketch or a small work just because I delight in the making of the art. These are often sketches of my favorite creators from art, photography, literature, music, dance, architecture, actors and thinkers. I will include them from time to time while in the process of creating more coastal art for galleries, private sales and commissions.

Claude Monet has informed so much of my light and color vocabulary along with the inspiration to think and find one's own way. Merci beaucoup.

I have been looking at and enjoying his art for over 30 years and it still holds it's power for me. Something I aspire to live up too.

More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

There are places I remember...

....all my life though some have changed....I know I'll often stop and think about them. In my life I love you more. It makes me smile to wonder why Beatles lyrics and music is still relevant and simply profound after all this time?

Welcome.

I have cherished memories of my friends. Some are long standing and some are recent. In the relationships with both men and women friends we were often warriors together in sports, quests and fishing expeditions and as artists trying to make sense of our unique talent, skill and intuition in a world that often expected conformity. Personally, triumphs for me are far more enjoyable when the creating, work and effort and the win are shared.

I attended a small private school in New Hampshire during my high school years. The winters were powewrful and drifts would often flow from the top of the dorm roof to the ground. Make no mistake I loved it. But the thing is; when spring would emerge from it's slumber and the first warm days began to frequent our mountainside my tribe and I relished the idea of heading to the lake to sit shirtless on the rocks and dream of the future. I could not have imagined at that time how much I would embrace life, art and joy on my journey, the friends I would be lucky enough to have and in my life love you more.

This is a watercolor on board. 18x24 inches. $2,000.00 US plus shipping and handling.

If you like my watercolor art be sure to check out Zazzle.com under the shop called sunnybeachman and you will find a full range of products with my art on them.

When reviewing past blogs if you see a work you are interested in please contact me here at alanlovesart@gmail.com  with your inquiry.

More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Sunday Morning at Speakers Corner......



Welcome.

Picture in your mind a beautiful fall morning. You are in London. You are scouting   Hyde Park for oils and watercolors. I mean I am. What I mean by scouting is that most of my art comes from observation in the real world reality that we both can see and touch, certainly a journalistic narrative when it comes to street tribes.

On this day though I am thinking perhaps some wildlife; believe it or not as I saw some white pelicans in the pond and those cool blue dorries, well, you know how I feel about boats, small boats, wooden boats.. I go out hunting for scenes or ideas to paint. Stumble upon might have been invented by me if I was paying attention!

What was and is delightful is I did stumble upon a festival of characters. Are you kidding? People in jesters hats, heck jesters pants! Colors are rippling across the green lawn, stripes, polka dots, reds, blues, greens, yellows, orange, pink and that's just folks hair! Man I was in image heaven.

I did listen to a few of the didactic diatribes. I shrugged my shoulders and went in search of more visual conversations.

One of those that I discovered was this couple shown in this watercolor painting. It has hung in my home or studio where I see it every day for a couple of decades. You see they seemed to be a magnet for people. Friends approached them and you could almost see a warm vibe eminating from them (brings to mind Carlos Castanada and the energy projections he discussed in The Teachings of Don Juan) the interactions were smiles and hugs and they had a stroller with a young child. I loved the guy's skull cap. When they saw me taking photos they just smiled and went on with their day. These days I would have introduced myself but I did not have the presence of mind to do so back then and so they will forever remain a happy mystery and an idea.

Occasionally I will step outside my coastal genre if it seems appropriate in sharing my art. Hope this brings you a smile.

This one is not for sale.

More to come.....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Slippery Fish!

Welcome. 

Frankly, more to the point, welcome back if you checked in yesterday and were looking at these fine Beeliner Snapper, Vermilion Snapper and then discovered they had slipped away. I was foolin with the page late last night and lost the image even though the post and the image were available on Google Plus.

Still have lots to learn about blogging, art, food, science, photography, social media....need I go on? Fish too, as I was researching varies species this morning and got into aquaculture and bio science before I finished my first cup of coffee. So, you really really think you would like to have an insatiably curious mind, huh? 

This is a watercolor on watercolor board. 15x20 inches and $1,000.00 US plus shipping.

More to come......

All images and art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Memories of Polo at Conyers Farm.

Welcome.

I have not been back to Greenwich Connecticut in a while. Traveling the back roads in the enclave of the glamorous, powerful and famous, it is a town or was when I was roaming around; one of discerning taste about the sitelines and natural beauty. There were many areas where I really felt the country, woodland vibe, authentic, protected and revered and I had not expected that. Finding Conyers Farm and The Greenwich Polo Club matches was like opening a present for me.

Sunday afternoons I got to experience an elegant bastion of civilization with matches on the beautiful polo field and the picnic grounds and was warmly welcomed. Again unexpected because I was not powerful, glamorous or famous. Tommy Glynn the Harvard Grad,  Greenwich resident 'polo guru' once said to me, "Polo is the most democratic of sports." Creme fraiche anyone? Perhaps with some strawberries bluesberries and a flute of champagne offered by a new friend?

I had been attending for 3 years or so and decided it would be a fun subject to paint. The club featured me in their magazine one year and I believe I did 6 or 7 in the series that they published and among them this was not only a favorite of mine but of equestrian fans in general whether polo followers or not. It is a rather tender moment between two warriors resting up until the next chukker.

This was an oasis for me. I loved the open space. Can you dig that the clubhouse was that stone building in the background, originally used for storing apples?  I always left those matches, played for worthy charities mind you, feeling exhilarated, renewed and ready for Monday! Thank you Peter.

This is an oil on canvas, 30x40 inches. I might show some of the remaining pieces from time to time in 'the favorite hits' category, they are all 30x40 inches oil on canvas and are for sale at $6,000.00 each US. Plus shipping. Simply send me an email if you are interested at alanlovesart@gmail.com

A reminder: You can purchase fun items, caps, mugs, t shirts with my watercolor art on them over at Zazzle.com just look under sunnybeachman.

More to come.....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Soup for the Soul, Soup for the Body....

Welcome.

Last night I bought some fresh Mayport shrimp. I had a busy day and in the unfolding tasks to be accomplished I did not get hungry and so, did not eat lunch which I make and bring with me each day. Lunch is always salad and in this instance spinach, avacado, tomato, mushrooms seasoned with a touch of extra vigin olive oil and salt and pepper. What I decide to do was make the shrimp and put it in the salad.

Here's the thing. I have a particular way of making the shrimp and as I was dicing and chopping garlic, rosemary, basil, mushrooms to flavor the sautee I realized how amazingly relaxed I was. I mean, I always am. Got the music going, you know a little Herbie Mann and I'm fresh from the shower. But it is something about the food, connecting to the food. I recognize the soil, the water and the starlight inherent in each. I recognize that each element took a particular journey to get to my cutting board and whether I was channeling Jamie Oliver, Charlie Trotter, Anthony Bourdain or Andre Soltner I have traveled many miles of experiments, reading, advice and recipes to be able to prepare and eat a simple (yet mouthwatering) dish as easy as a shrimp and salad. If we are indeed what we eat then I am joy.

The temperature is dropping around here. Soup always comes to mind when the chill is on.
This piece was a watercolor commission for Water's Edge Magazine and it is one of my favorites for composition, palette and concept. It is 15x20 on board and is sold at $2,500.00 US.plus shipping. If interested you can reach me by email at alanlovesart@gmail.com

One of my favorite things about making soup is I make quantities! I get to pass out containers to friends for sampling!

More to come......

All images and art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Descending Dusk On The Savannah

Welcome.

The paint is still wet on this one. I had done the study a year ago along with 10 others for a client who lives on the edge of the ICW. Some were of pelicans. The couple chose a pelican piece where it's evident it's winter. I loved the study I had done for this so it goes up on the wall until I can find the time to paint the finished oil version, voila! This one is summertime and this beautiful Great White Egret happened to catch my eye while I was casting my fiddler for some reds.

I know many of the fisherman I run into are in awe of the bounty of nature when presented with
amazing wildlife or a changing sky over the marsh at sunset.


This is an oil on canvas. I forgot to measure but close to 20x24 inches. It is available at $2,800.00 which includes the frame, US dollars plus shipping.

I have another friend I would like to recommend. Phil Rice the creative shaman and wordsmith over at canopicjar.com which is an arts journal. You will find an assortment of talented writers, artists, philosophers, poets, boxers, thinkers and muscicians and real honest to goodness books. I don't know for sure but they can all probably dance too!

Remember you can always head over to Zazzle.com and find many of my better known watercolors on a range of fun products at reasonable prices, just look under the heading sunnybeachman (that's me of course)

More to come.....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Our Planet Our Table

Welcome.

The farm is a place that I always feel at home. These tomatoes were stacked up on a chair outside a farm shed in Center Strafford New Hampshire.

I have enjoyed visiting a half acre plot or a few yards of fenced in dirt in Boston's Back Bay, perhaps we call that one a garden, or a property that stretches as far as the eye can see with orchards filled with delicious fruits. Do you not marvel at the fact that with proper soil, water and sun this stuff grows out of the ground?

I grew up in a suburb of Boston and there was not much farmland that I could easily get too however most folks had a pear,apple or cherry tree in the yard along with a summer garden and it was a delight to snatch a fresh giant tomato straight off the vine and season it with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. My taste buds were singing! I really dig the slow food idea,the whole food idea,the fresh farm, locally grown ingredients idea. I love to eat fresh, beautifully prepared and brilliantly shared meals.

In Florida it is wonderful also to be able to stroll into the backyard to retrieve a few lemons, a mango, an orange or grapefruit to enhance  your fresh caught flounder dish!

My friend Iain Broadbent is a magnificent chef. One of the more knowledgeable chefs I have met about nutrition and food properties in general in addition to his talents in the kitchen. You might want to visit his online offerings over at globalgourmetorganics.com and sample for yourself what someone with vision can create with the intention to eat healthy and delicious gourmet meals. His Chicken Tangine will melt in your mouth!

The painting above is a watercolor on board and is approximately 15x20 inches and is available at $2,500.00 US. If interested just send an email to me at alanlovesart@gmail.com

Remember you can visit Zazzle.com online and look under sunnybeachman to find many articles of clothing, hats, mugs and cases for phones with my watercolor art on them.

More to come...

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2104

An Alaskan Odyssey......

 Welcome.
This was one of my last magazine illustrations before I formally became a gallery artist. It was a feature in Alaska Magazine. The narrative was about a family going on an annual moose hunt and the youngest child's first time joining in for it.

There were a few more illustrations that went with it but I liked the warmth and togetherness implied in these two images, not to mention a great deal of fun and wonder of being in the wild. I also got a chance to paint a grayling trout which I have yet to land but assure you I will!

It appears that one could sit back on one's haunches after climbing to that summit and breathe a deep sweet breath of amazement while surveying the valley and glassing for a bull. These were done with oils on canvas, each approximately 15x20 inches. Sold.

More to come....

Please remember to visit Zazzle and look under sunnybeachman for some fun items with my watercolor images on them!

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2104

When the pine trees watch over the sea.....

Welcome.

How perfect are pine cones anyway? Textural, dimensional, sculptural, wood, beautiful, great on wreaths, functional to spread the seeds from whence they came and they crackle with a snap in a fire. This still life was featured in Water's Edge Magazine.

I spotted these two on the beach near a palm tree but under a pine tree near the dunes with some dancing dune grass surrounding them. Pine trees marching down to sea are one of my favorite sights.

This is a watercolor on board. The size is aproximately 15x20 inches. It is in a private collection. The owner framed it in a way that makes certain that it will always remain a treasure of nature and the home. The original price was $2,500.00

More to come....

Visit Zazzle under the sunnybeachman heading and discover great things to wear with my watercolor art on them.

An idea of Provence, Tuscany and Maine

Welcome.

I know, I know, this is a summer or spring sort of image. I just dig flowers. Flower gardens are so refreshing, don't you think?  Being a foodie I think vegetable gardens are supremely beautiful as well....and for strolling in the fall on a Sunday in October, I have been elevated to natural highs walking the acreage of an apple orchard.

And so, I imagine frequently that I get to stroll through flower gardens in Provence, Tuscany and Maine. I get to paint them, I get to harvest a few for the table! In Florida we have them pretty much year round lol lots of flora in Florida!  I like the fragrant ones too...think lavender! This is an oil painting. Sold. It was 24x18 inches on canvas and priced at $2,500.00

I suppose it is in all reality the idea of something of quality that is slower, something creative and evolving. Something to tend and give respectful attention to that is our connection to the earth, the planet and ultimately each other. This could be a complete stranger in this garden and yet I would be able to speak with her for hours as I know we are kindred spirits.

More to come.....

Remember over at Zazzle under sunnybeachman you can find some of my watercolors on a variety of fun items for your home or as gifts!

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Crawdaddys,Mudbugs and a Low Country Boil Y'all.

Welcome.

There is something quite right about a low country boil.  I was introduced to them by my next door neighbor Lee some 18 years ago. Lee's family lived out by Fort Caroline on the water.
It may have been a birthday celebration, I don't recall the exact occasion but it was a celebration and an occasion nonetheless! Everyone had a name tag with a reference to some southern dish or a relative term to the festivities, for instance one gal's moniker read "Lady Mudbug." you get the idea. When Lee's dad mentioned that he was at a loss for a sobriquet
I laughed and replied, "Why sir you are the Crawdaddy!"

This was the first of many I enjoyed over the years. It is one of the ultimate moments of fellowship in sharing food.

I have been extraordinarily lucky in my career and back when I was the illustrator for Water's Edge Magazine I had the good fortune to have the food page every month for two years. Since I am a foodie you can imagine that I relished the idea not only to make the art for the page but to eat what I had set up as a still life. In a word, Yum!

This is a watercolor on watercolor paper  15x20 inches or so. Sold. The original price was $2,000.00

I was happy with the composition in this one, the dynamic of using as much red as this in a painting and the delicate handling of the newsprint. Meanwhile The Datl Pepper Sauce I believe was made in St. Augustine, Trinidad Sauce made in Jacksonville by my friends Carl, Mary Jane and Bobby, made local, purchased local, created local, eaten local and sold local. My kinda meal.

Remember to check out Zazzle under sunnybeachman for some of my watercolor art on hats,cups,mugs,t-shirts,sweatshirts and many more fun items to buy for yourself or friends and family.

More to come....

Copyright Alan Phillips all art and images 2014

Swamp Cat....The Florida Panther

Welcome.

This is a Florida Panther. I have not seen one roaming the jungle down here, don't laugh I have almost stumbled upon a 12 foot gator while out shooting in the marsh trying to step over snakes! However I did meet this one at someone's home as she was a rescue and somewhat domesticated and was not at this time equipped to be released into the wild. She was wise, playful, contained, well fed  and yet you could still feel that wild 'dominant' energy of a major predatory cat.

There is something special about being in the sphere of a being so magnificent and powerful with beauty to spare. This was a piece I had done to illustrate a story in Water's Edge Magazine. It is a 15x20 inch watercolor on board it is available @ $1,500.00

This is one of the images that you will find over at Zazzle under sunnybeachman on sweatshirts,caps,mugs,smartphone holders, notecards and more.

More to come......

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Bravura day at the beach

Welcome.

It's one of those times you don't throw caution to the wind. Yellow flag up one would be advised to heed the rips!

October is in my top 3 of favorite months. The dune grass is changing in tone and color, there is a cooler breeze along the coast and yet we can still have that delicious blue green water.

In this particular study which is oil on canvas I was interested in bold strokes to define the forms using ultra thick paint with gestural marks yet still retaining an elegance in design and edges that keeps it fresh. It is 9x12 inches. Sold.  $1,200.00

Please remember to visit Zazzle and search sunnybeachman for my watercolor art on a variety of products you might like!

More to come.....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

The Tale of The Sea Turtle

Welcome.

There is something refreshing about seeing a turtle. In this instance a loggerhead. I have never seen an adult swimming under the ocean. I have seen many in the ponds all along the east coast, painted, box, snappers, mud,bog and I have always been treated kindly and with respect. I showed them the same.

However on one of my beach walkabouts I spied a baby loggerhead shell in the tidline. It was low tide and I was a good 400 yards from the water. This was back when I used to collect artifacts and such from the tidal treasures left on the beach. So I picked it up with great admiration and I surveyed it's markings. You must imagine my smile and delight when a little curious head popped out followed by arms and feet. Feeling that little life in my hand was sensational!

I walked down to the surf, waded in waist deep and let it swim out from my hand. What a feeling ! My young daughter might spot this creature one day in her world travels! I hope.

My friend Margi was looking at my last post of the roses and remarked, "Not only is it beautiful but I get a great sense of peace too." Thanks for that by the way.

This is the feeling that seeing great creatures in nature gives me and at least for the time being it's one of the great 'authentic' experiences for which I give thanks.

This is a watercolor on watercolor board 15x20 inches. Sold.  Original price $1,500.00

Remember to visit Zazzle online and search for sunnybeachman to find my watercolor art on a variety of products you might like.

More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Sea Spray Roses

Welcome.

Before this painting was completed there was a guest in my studio who was admiring this piece and she loved it because it reminded her of getting ready for a party. This is her reality. I find it a lovely sentiment. It's not what I was thinking when designing it but I enjoy it as that idea now as well. It is terrific that the viewer can bring her own sense of life and impressions to the art and it becomes something more. Once completed, the art has it's own life.

I like the sunlight in this. Where I live this would be a little after sunrise. Perhaps I had gone out to the garden and collected these two bouquets to bring the rose beauty and fragrance into the house for the day. They are sitting on a table made for just such an enterprise on the back veranda over looking the Atlantic so there would be a shell or two, don't you think?

Forgot to mention in previous blogs. Zazzle, if you go there and look for sunnybeachman you can find many of the watercolors I have done on everything from caps and t shirts to mugs and note cards. It's fun to see the application and of course a couple of dozen mugs sold helps the cause.

Please remember to visit Zazzle under sunnybeachman online and check out all the fun products you can buy with my waterclors on them.


This is an oil on canvas 30x40 inches and is available at $5,000.00 US.

More to come......

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

A Window to the Sea

Welcome.

These are mostly whelks and cockels that I found on my walks along the beaches of Ponte Vedra, Neptune, Jacksonville and Atlantic beaches in Florida, USA. These are fairly old, worn and rich with character.

This oil on canvas is about 20x30 inches. It is somehow simple and majestic at the same time.

I have it on a white wall unframed in the studio. You see it through an archway. It looks as though it was always supposed to be there. That is a condition that confirms my choice. There is often a good deal of mystery and exploration for me in the art that I make and although I have a plan for each painting it's the discoveries that make it fun and interesting. Once I get it up on the wall and it still appeals to me I know I have a keeper.

The other aspects I enjoy in this piece is that even though it is a still life there is so much movement with the curved shapes against the the geometric rectangles and the rich but subtle tonal colors with textural elements. This art is available. $3,000.00 US.

Please remember to visit Zazzle under sunnybeachman online and check out all the fun products you can buy with my waterclors on them.



More to come....

All images and art copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Edgartown Soul Cruiser

Welcome.

You know the true sailors. They are out in every kind of weather. Might be in a new sloop, an old cat, a schooner, a yawl you will see them all. This sailor was simply taking his time on a foggy morning cruising into Edgartown Harbor. I admired the ease of which everything fit, connected and worked with the southerly breeze.

The size of this painting is 16x20 inches oil on canvas. It is available. $1,800.00 You can contact me by email if interested in purchasing it.

I like the peace and gentleness evident in this work of art, one with the wind, the sea, one's craft and soul.

Please remember to visit Zazzle under sunnybeachman online and check out all the fun products you can buy with my waterclors on them.





More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

More to come.....

Ogunquit Red......

Welcome.

There have been so many paintings that I have done where the viewer says "I know that spot."

More often than not it is Ogunquit Maine which is a place that is easy to recognize and love with it's estuaries and coves and wonderful arcing beach. Although there is not enough of the landscape to 'recognize' this little inlet in Ogunquit if I had pulled back a bit you would.

Sloops are interesting shapes for me with nice graceful lines and often a sweet 'pop' of color among the neutrals of nature where they sail. In this painting which is 9x12 oil on canvas I also liked that they hung the lifejacket over the boom and mainsail as an extra splash of color.

This one is sold. $1,200.00 framed. Quite a few of the folks that contact me have asked that I mention the prices that these works sold for so I shall include them.

A friend recently emailed me to say that she was happy that I was still providing the world with 'soul soothing" art. Yep, that's my intention. Thanks Elaine.

More to come....

All art and images copyright Alan Phillips 2014

Please remember to visit Zazzle under sunnybeachman online and check out all the fun products you can buy with my waterclors on them.