Joe Hendry Art

Every now and again my painting takes an obvious change of direction. This has happened recently and I am working on a new series of female paintings which I am really excited about.

To be honest, if I didn't get excited about painting, I really don't think that I would continue to do it.

These new paintings are being worked on inbetween finishing off some commissioned paintings. The one shown left, is not completed. It actually started off based on a photograph of Kate Bush and I have developed it, keeping the pose as I worked on the canvas.

When I am enjoying painting as much as this there is a real excitement about heading to the studio in the morning and I pinch myself that this is now a hguge part of my life and the days of sitting at an office desk are merely a memory.

The painting shown with the working title of "Flower Girl" is approx 19 x 25 inches and is painted in oil. Please check the main Joe Hendry website for the finished piece in due course.

Last Glasgow Art Exhibition

2010-11-17T02:05:00.000Z

Well, last exhibition for me for 2010. The Parade Artists exhibition is being held again in the WASPS Artists Studios at Hanson Street on the last two weekends of November. The amount of planning that goes into these shows is quite substantial and this time we have no less than 23 artists taking part . They include, Joe Hendry, Jeff McDonald, Eleanor Caie, Maureen Rocks-Moore, and Elidh McKenzie to name just a few. Publicising an art eexhibition by a collective can be quite a challenge and this year we have done everything we can to let people know about all these Glasgow Artists taking part in their own neighbourhood. A real mixed bag of art this year with a huge amount of gglass art. To make room for it all we have hired some extra space in the building and if you are coming along, don't forget the free parking and the fantastic Cafe Sejuiced is open too.

Glasgow Artists Get Ready

2010-10-01T02:14:00.000+01:00

The studios in Glasgow where I am based "WASPS Artists Studios", are norrmally a fairly peaceful place. Today however, things were reaching a crescendo as a host of Glasgow Artists got ready for Open Studios.

This is a once a year weekend when, as the name suggests, painters, ceramicists, glass artists and textile designers all open their doors and welcome the public.

It's possibly the only time in the year when the windows get washed and floors are swept. The corridors, normally bare, were being hung with artwork today and the place was looking great.

My studio was getting there, as I took delivery of some newly framed paintings. Unusually for me, these had glass on them. I tend to avoid glazing my original paintings as I ship my art all over the world but I thought that I would push the boat out for the open Studios weekend.

The mini-fridge in the studio is even stocked with wine and pretzels - all I need now are some visitors.

Original Landscape Paintings

2010-09-20T02:02:00.001+01:00

Almost a whole summer gone by and I have hardly written.

Well, quite a relaxed summer it has been and lots of painting. I seem to have had a month of figurative painting, when I really rediscovered oils and then it was original landscape painting time.

Not all work though. I managed to get away one hot day and see the Glasgow Boys Exhibition at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow. A world-class exhibition, it really made me rethink some of my approaches to painting. As mush as the figurative work at the exhibition, it was the emotion in the landscape painting which also hit me right between the eyes. I love the painting of another Glasgow artist, Joan Eardley and I never seem to have the courage to paint that way, but some of the techniques of the Glasgow Boys , I think I don't need quite the same level of bravery for.

Above, is a new landscape in oil which I am currently working on, featuring a favourite tree of mine, some texture and hopefully a bit of passion. The finished artwork will be available to view on the main website soon.

Tranquil Places

2010-05-12T16:51:00.000+01:00

This year has been a busy one for me to date.

I think for many artists that in the run up to a solo exhibition, life is a whirlwhind that passes you by. i have written elsewhere about the events surrounding my solo show - lets just say it has been far from the most positive experience of my painting career so far. However, it has been good to get past this and start looking at new work.

Sometimes, I feel horrified at the thought of painting art which might be cruelly described as "chocolate box" but at the moment I am not really caring. I am thoroughly enjoying relaxing and painting some new landscape art.

It has honestly felt like the next best thing to being there. I have been in art galleries and watched the look on peoples faces change as they view a painting in appreciation. I feel this way at the moment, painting my first ever canvas with a boat in it!

Check back to see the completed painting but don't count on it being completed very soon as I am definitely taking it at a leisurely pace.

What Is Art

2010-04-15T03:47:00.001+01:00

Ok, I know, you're as well asking "what's the meaning of life?"

Tonight as I was leaving the studio a new exhibition was being set up in the foyer. Some exquisite figure paintings, which I loved but then there was some "installation art". I really hate that stuff.

There was this....

....basically an ironing board with some dice on it. And then there was this.....

A discussion ensued about the merits of installation art between myself and some other artists who were leaving the building when the cleaner appeared and started cleaning . Very amusing and sums up this kind of "art" for me.

UPDATE 16th April 2010

I turned up at tthe studio today to discover that the sweeping impliment and bag of rubbish is indeed a part of the exhibition. I blame Tracy Emin.

Braewell Galleries & Klimt Females

2010-03-31T23:02:00.003+01:00

Braewell Galleries: Please note that I no longer work with Braewell Galleries nor do I have anything to do with them.

Original Post Follows:-

The painting has been continuing and so too has the Klimt influence.

I have been studying other painters in addition to Klimt recently , all in the lead up to my solo art exhibition at Braewell Galleries (it is being held now at the Glasgow Art Centre). This piece seems to a slight Tamara De Lempika look, although that is not intentional.

I am certainly not trying to run through a history of artists in my current art but I feel that I need to keep developing this at the moment and seeing where it takes me.

It can't do any harm, can it?

UPDATE. For full details of the Braewell Galleries Exhibition and it's subsequent cancellation, please see the art blog on my main website.

Braewell & Klimt Art Obsession

2010-03-05T02:18:00.003Z

Braewell Galleries: Please note that I no longer work with Braewell Galleries or have anything to do with them.

I have not written here in some time, perhaps mainly as there is an additional art Blog on the main website now.

I currently appear to be stockpiling art in the studio which is a frustrating thing that most artists go theough in the run up to a show. At present the exhibition is looking like 25 paintings an dseveral of them have a distinct "Klimt" feel to them. The exhibition is with Braewell Galleries.

I was very wary of this because of the whole "gold" aspect but there was no other way to pay proper tribute.

I do hope you approve.

In between getting things ready for Braewell, ther has been a lot of rushing about including taking paintings to Edinburgh. It's great to get some time out of the studio as, on return, artwork in progress can bve viewed with slightly different eyes.

Braewell Galleries NIghtmare & Figuritive Art Improvements

2010-02-10T03:00:00.003Z

Braewell Galleries - Please note that I no longer work with Braewell Galleries -
One of the worst experiences of my professional career was working with Braewell Galleries.

Original Post -

Painting has been fairly continual at the studio and I am continuing to develop the female painting. I think some of this comes from overhearing someone at my solo show at Art DeCaf (now Braewell Galleries) last year. They were discussing how strong my male figurative paintings were and how my female paintings were not quite as well painted. This stuck with me and I guess that the recent Goddess Artwork has developed and given me the opportunity to try and prove them wrong. This is a work in progress.

Braewell Galleries & Goddess Art

2010-01-26T23:02:00.006Z

BRAEWELL GALLERIES WARNING
Update - Please note that I am no longer represented by Braewell Galleries and will not be working with Braewell in the future. I am happy to discuss my dreadful experience with Braewell privately with other Artists or art buyers but will not go into detail on this public forum.

Well here she is again in her latest form. I have worked on this painting for the Hawke & Hunter exhibition in Edinburgh for quite some considerable time now (see below) and the face has gone a subtle transformation whilst "stars" have appeared and more foliage at the bottom of the artwork. In addition to other recent influences I have also been looking skyward and become more interested in astronomy.

I am almost at the stage where all that is required is a signature.

The exhibition is now just over a week away. There are several other Braewell Gallery artists exhibiting including Frank To, Joe O'Brien and Elena Kourenkova.

BRAEWELL GALLERIES ARTISTS

2010-01-07T18:08:00.002Z

UPDATE: Please note that I choose to no longer work with Marcus McLeod and Braewell "Galleries"

I have been working on this Goddes painting for well over a month now and she has gone through several changes. The painting has been built up in layers steadily and it is difficult to convey the subtleties in textural elements of the artwork when viewed online.

I just could not get her to look the way I wanted and have changed several features but it took a sudden decision to get her on the right track. This painting is part of a series of new artwork hich I am working on for the Braewell Galleries exhibition in Edinburgh next month. The exhibition will also feature fellow WASPS artists Frank To and Joe O'Brien.

You can compare the new Goddess here to her original state, below.

New Female Artwork

2009-12-04T13:04:00.001Z

So it's been a busy time again.

After my exhibition in May at ArtDeCaf (now Braewell Galleries) in May, I feel that I have never really got my painting momentum back. Not that I have not been painting new art, I have but I have certainly not had the opportunity to paint the way I was before that exhibition.

There just seem to have been all sorts of interruptions, moving studios around: all sorts. Things seem to be settling at last and around six weeks ago things really seemed to change direction.

This is one of the new paintings which I am working on, tentatively titled "A Mothers Love". It is a fairly textured piece and in itself, it keeps changing direction so this is merely a sneak preview of some new art.

Scottish Landscape Paintings

2009-11-12T01:45:00.001Z

No entries in this blog for quite a while but the paintings continue.

With Edinburgh Art Fair on the way, I have been working on several new paintings including this one which is of 2 of the three sisters at Glencoe.

This has taken me longer to paint so far than it would have taken to climb!

More Scottish Landscapes soon.

Gay Vettriano

2009-10-26T01:05:00.001Z

In 2005, before I was painting full time, I painted a take on Vettriano's "Dance Me To The End Of Love" but feauturing two male figures. Recently, the owner asked me to update it as my painting style had changed somewhat.

I was quite excited about revisiting a five year old painting but also nervous about taking away the essence of the artwork.

It really was strange painting over the canvas but it was really interesting to see the early brushwork.

You can see the original painting at joehendry.com but here's the new version, complete with frame.

Glasgow School Of Art.....Not!

2009-09-11T00:57:00.002+01:00

I am about to move home for the 5th time in a decade, which seems unbelievable to me. More stress than it's worth and I'm sure it's another 5 years off my life!

Anyway, the big clear up has started and part of that was moving some old portfolio cases. I couldn't resist having a look through one of them and found a load of interesting bits an pieces (more of that on the main website blog).

However, for me, there was a very strange moment. I saw a plastic flap I had not noticed befor and put my hand in. There was a neatly folded piece of A4 paper. This was the folio I had used when I had applied to Glasgow School Of Art. I was 17 and had completed a "crash Higher " grade. It was all a bit fast and furious and I was not accepted. I remember I was advised at the time to try again the next year but me being an ultra-impatient teenager decided to go and study Interior Design instead.

A very good friend who was accepted used to say to me that he didn't know why I didn't get in. I just thought he was protecting my feelings and I did know that the standard fro Glasgow Art School was extremely high.

This note, however, must have been placed there during the acessment as it has only been used for storage since and I had never seen it before. It stated " Joe Hendry. Sound, well organised but how will illustrations balance in". A signature follows.

All these years later (25 years!) it makes me feel a slight warm glow to know that at least I nearly made it and they used the word "sound". More than that, it makes me ponder the deciscions of others and that we make ourselves in the blink of an eye which go on to change an entire life.

It's that Butterfly Effect thing.

Glencoe Landscape Painting

2009-09-06T15:12:00.003+01:00

I am really back in the swing of it at the moment and painting away like an artist should be....or so this artist seems to think!

I believe that I am having a natural progression more and more away from design-led painting and increasingly towards almost entirely emotion based painting if I can put it that way.

I am working on several Scottish Landscape Paintings at the moment and this one of Glencoe has me completely absorbed. Any of you who have travelled through Glencoe will know that it is an immediately arresting place to visit. To use a cliche, the atmosphere could be cut with a knife and the history of the place is almost tangible.

I hope I can do Glencoe justice in this painting and I am sure it will go through more transformations as I countinue to paint the canvas over the next while.

Artwork In Progress

2009-09-02T22:08:00.005+01:00

I sometimes go through meandering journeys whilst painting and tie-ing this in with the emails which I am very grateful to receive asking about my art, I have created an "art in progress" page on my website.

Some artist whom I know don't like to let people see unfinished work and I understand this. It's a personal thing and after my recent painting demonstration in Glasgow, I can see why some artists' avoid it, as enjoyable as it was.

So, you can click the link above and read my ramblings on the three month journey of the lady to your right.

And you know what, I still don't think she's finished.
UPDATE: As a result of the feedback and emails which I have received about showing paintings in prodress, I am now including them regularly on the main Joe Hendry website. It seems that art lovers are genuinely interested in how a painting develops. You can see how the painting shown was completed - View Completed Female Painting As you will see, the finished artwork is entirely different from how this figurative female artwork started out

Female Figurative Art...at last!

2009-08-29T00:24:00.006+01:00

I started a painting more than three months ago of a very helpful girl, Jo, who modelled for me and the result was several pieces of female figurative art which i was very pleased with as it challenged me and I also thought showed some progression in my painting.

One painting though, just wasn't happening and was really causing me to think a lot. After a period when my painting slowed down a lot recently, I feel that I am back in the swing and this week, I tackled the painting which has been hanging on the studio wall and rather than panting over it, as I was about to, I took it in a new direction

I have added it to the website as a work in progress....we will see where it goes.

More Landscape Art

2009-08-12T02:09:00.005+01:00

Today I delivered the second painting from the demo at Park Gallery.

I know that a lot of people who saw me begin this at the demo probably thought that it would come to nothing because when i start a painting it bears little resemblance to how it is when it is completed.

This is another landscape that I really got into whilst I was working on it. It is based on a photo I took earlier in the year when I was travelling from Helensburgh back home and took a different route from normal.

It makes me want to start travelling all over and seeing what is out there. I have had a couple of comments recently asking why I am suddenly painting landscapes but I have been painting landscapes for a long time. It's what I used to do on holiday before I started to paint for a living.

Back to Kiltie paintings tomorrow!

Michael Jackson Celebrity Painting

2009-08-04T22:46:00.003+01:00

If you know my artwork then you will know that I like to paint celebrities.

Early on in my painting career I was fortunate enough to be icluded in the books Marilyn In Art and Diana In Art . I was recently approaced and invited to contribute to a possible forthcoming publication, Michael Jackson In Art.

Like many other people, I was quite shocked when I heard that MJ had died. It will be interesting to hear the truth of the circumstances, if the truth is ever actually revealed.

So, my painting is underway and I have chosen to paint Micheal Jackson from a period when he was, I believe, healthier. It is interesting that everyone seems to have an opinion about him and what he may or may not have done but it's also interesting to see that all this is forgotten when you see him perform.

I intend for this celebrity painting to be a celebration of that aspect of his life.

Art In The Park (Gallery)

2009-07-26T18:15:00.003+01:00

Yesterday was the first ever Joe Hendry painting demonstration. This was held at the Park Gallery In Glasgow.

I have a history with Park Gallery going back over two years now but it did not make me any less nervous.

I deliberately did absolutely no preparation for this event other tank taking my easel, paints and blank canvas.

The funny thing was, as enjoyable as the painting demonstration was, I was utterly emotionally and physically drained at the end of the 3 hour period.

You can see all the details over at Joehendry.com or by clicking the headline link above.

Simon Cowell Naked Art

2009-07-21T23:20:00.004+01:00

Ok ok, calm down, I am just having a laugh.

Ever since I saw those "Faces Of Disco" guys on Britain's Got Talent I thought I had to take things a bit further.

I have been working on this painting for an age it seems but I feel that it is at a stage that is safe to reveal now (pardon the pun).

The likeness is not quite there yet but it almost is and I need to reduce the size of the body. I wanted to make it beefy but I think I may have overcooked it in relation to the head!

He should be comleted in the next couple of days. I think Simon Cowell is one of the most entertaining people on TV and a lot of his chat goes over the heads of some people. I would say he is pipped by Michael McIntyre and of course Harry Hill!

I have certainly had a chuckle to myself painting this anyway.

The Serious Art Of Painting

2009-07-18T19:32:00.006+01:00

Today I thought I had better get to the studio and get on with it.

I have had to do this more and more just to get artwork completed and I am working on some very interesting projects at the moment.

I didn't account for fellow WAPS artist Gillian Orr appearing at the studio doorcomplete with wigs. These, I found out belong to Joe O'Brien. If you have not heard of Joe, chances are that you will soon. He is an outstanding painter and it is amazing how almost every character in his paintings is based on himself. Today I learned that the wigs and hats are for creating characters to paint and the thought of Joe looking in the mirror painting a canvas whilst looking at himself in the mirror with pigtails on was just too much.

These are blurred because we could haedly push the camera button for laughing.

So cheers Gill and thansk for the loan of the headwear Joe, it brightened up a serious days painting no end....not that day painting really needs brightened up now does it?

Landscape Art Demo

2009-07-18T01:33:00.002+01:00

I have had a canvas in the studio which I have been dabbling with for around a year.

At the same time, I have had in my head an image since I visited some friends who live in the country. These two elements finally came together and this week I completed this landscape in oil.

Nice timing as on the 25th July I will be carrying out a painting demonstration at Glasgow's Park Gallery which should be fun as I have never done this kind of thing before.

I hope you can make it.....

Domain Name Joy

2009-07-11T02:46:00.001+01:00

Apologies for not blogging for a while but life has been hectic.
Lots has been happening but getting time to update has proved difficult.

I have been working lots on the website and could hardly contain myself tonight when I secured a very arty domain name.

original art contemporary paintings anyone?

More serious blogging soon!

Art, Rest and Play

2009-06-25T19:51:00.003+01:00

Yes, I am still on the planet. (Please see evidence to the right - shiny headed man with large smile).

Thanks to those of you who have been asking after me over the past while. That's what happens when you are a fairly prolific painter and don't paint for a while. People think you have died. Well, it's nice to know that people care: or perhaps they are just wondering if the price of their original paintings have suddenly become more marketable.

Working towards the recent Art De Caf solo exhebition, whilst fun, exciting, and other such positive things, it definately depleted me of my wish to paint. Worried that it would never return again, I took advice of some good friends and have enjoyed a few nights on the tiles. The most recent of which was at the stunning Oran Mor in Glasgow's West End to see Emiliana Torinni. It really could not have been a more perfect environment to see this outstanding singer songwriter. The pleasant surprise was Emiliana's humour and willingness to chat to the audience. I loved every minute.

I have also been working on the website. If you visit Joehendry.com you will see that it has all changed again. More detail on that soon.

Landscape Art Happiness

2009-06-10T17:30:00.002+01:00

It was back to the studio today after all the excitement of the solo exhibition launch at the weekend.

What better way than to ease back in with a BIG landscape painting!

THis piece is based on a road that I drive down on the way to visit a friend and is based on a photograph which I took earlier in the year. It was one of those moments when i just had to stop the car and get out.

I used to cycle down this road a lot as a kid so this painting does also have a special feeling to it for me.

Art Exhibition Anyone?

2009-06-05T19:10:00.005+01:00

Well, the last canvas has dried (just) and the hanging has begun.

It's a really strange thing as I have mentioned before, being yourself in the studio, painting for months and then finally reaching the "goal".

There are 25 paintings in the exhibition and staring to hang them looked like it was going to be tricky. I asked myself why I don't just paint on the same size canvas every time. Then I wouldn't need to worry about balance and symetry and colour harmony and frames and....

All that remains now is to turn up on Sunday and hope that other people decide to do the same.

At least if it's just me I will be in the company of some decent wine.

Full details of the ArtDeCaf (now Braewell Gallery)exhibition are now at www.joehendry.com

Contemporary Painting, old fashioned pressure!

2009-06-02T21:44:00.003+01:00

When I used to work in interior design, it was fairly fast paced and high pressure. Deadlines, big budgets, building control guidelines, customer deadlines and pressure. I loved it.

Just as some people didn't understand this and thought that interior design was like "Changing Rooms" (believe me, it wasn't), a career as an artist doesn't always mean listening to radio three whilst painting a watercolour of a vase of flowers before switching to "The Archers" at two!

Over the past three months I have worked on some twenty plus paintings, mainly to put together the solo art exhibition for ArtDeCaf in Glasgow. There are only four days to go now until the launch, and whilst I should now be thinking about stringing canvasses, I am still painting, finishes pieces off and, in true Joe style, starting new artwork.

I know, I am a sucker for punishment, but it's just the way I am. I feel that I have learned more in the past three months than in the last three years.

Here's hoping there is no meltdown on Monday.

Male Nude Art

2009-05-23T00:53:00.003+01:00

I love painting as you may have noticed, but sometimes everything just clicks into place.

This was the case today when working on a new male figurative artwork. He's a big chap at 3 feet x 3 feet. When I came back from a short break and walked into the studio it was just one of those occassions that you see a painting with fresh eyes. I don't often work on a Saturday but there has been so mush happening that I have been of late and I am going to make the most of the creativity flowing and paint tomorrow.

Completed artwork soon.

Tennis Artwork

2009-05-20T21:37:00.005+01:00

It's been a busy time in the studio really and whilst I am genuinely very happy with some of the new artwork which I have been painting, I thought that perhaps I was getting a shade too po-faced and away from who I really am.

Yes, I can be serious but people who know me know that I definately have a less serious side. It has been unleashed recently just for the hell of it and for the sake of a bit of fun.

This art in progress is my Andy Murray 70's tribute painting....

2009-05-12T20:06:00.004+01:00

A day of all-sorts today and a day when I am switching between oil and acrylic.

You don't want to get them mixed up - believe me. I can get so absorbed in painting that I get completely carried away and it has not been unknown for me to dip my paintbrush in my cup of volvic or tea. I was speaking to some other artists today and apparently this is quite a common phenomenon amongst painters.

Also, you heard it here first, it looks like I will be having an exhibition of work at the SAS Raddisson Hotel in Edinburgh during the Edinburgh Fringe and Festival this year.

Edinburgh is a stunning City and you won't often hear someone who lives in Glasgow saying that. The rivalry can be quite fierce. I worked there for 11 years and have not been back nearly enough so it will be good to have my art on display in a city with whom I have a history.

This new female art is in progress but I quite like her the way she is. Tomorrow will tell...

Artists United

2009-05-10T18:20:00.006+01:00

I don't watch all that much television so when I do I like it be something worthwhile or at least entertaining.

I have just watched the BBC produced Artworks Scotland and it was simply fantastic. Jack Vettriano and Ian Rankin, in dialogue whilst at Vettriano's home and then wandering through the streets and cafe's in Edinburgh. Ian Rankin came across as such a decent guy and as for Vettriano, well, I think he is a national treasure and he came across with no pretentions, even saying that if how he felt inside matched the level of his career he would probably be an "asshole".

Parts of the documentary were framed almost as if they were a Vettriano painting. When they discussed the fact that the National Gallery of Scotland refuses to show any of his work, Vettriano came up with the point that they have tax payers money to spend on new work each year and yet continually snub him despite the fact that his work would bring crowds of people to the gallery.

My own opinion is that art snobs feed their ego by putting others down, rather than creating something of worth and esteeming themselves in that way. Will Vettriano be dead before he gets treated better in his own country?

It was one of those programmes which, after watching made me want to rush to the studio and paint! That will have to wait until tomorrow, when I will continue to work on the many pieces which are currently in progress including "untitled", above.

Messy Male Art

2009-05-09T00:49:00.005+01:00

Things are picking up a pace as time seems to be running away as the deadline to the ArtDeCaf solo exhibition gets closer. I am probably going on about it all th etime at the mo but I do get so involved in painting.

I am working on several artworks at once and I am also develloping ideas as I go. So we shall see where we go with it. This new piece in progress saw more paint on me than on the canvas but painting is more fun that way!

At the end of today we had an artist's meeting to discuss the forthcoming Parade Artist's exhibition which is next weekend. It could be a recipe for disaster getting a group of artists together but they are a good bunch and we don't seem to have too many battered egos at the end of it.

Well tomorrow is Saturday....in fact, today is Saturday and guess what? Back to the studio in the morning. It's the way it is at the moment and to be honest, I wouldn't have it any other way.

What are you up to this weekend?

Tree Paintings

2009-04-19T18:18:00.007+01:00

Today was one of those days when it was good to get out for a run in the car and just wander about with the camera. I never quite know what you will find worth shooting but it is usually a worthwhile creative process.

Today the thing that struck me was just how into trees I am. I have painted trees quite a few times but today I noticed just how dramatic they are in the landscape. I drove around some areas that I used to cycle as a kid and it was quite shocking to see the amount of wind farms that seem to have grown out of nowhere so suddenly. It's the first time I have really understood why people get so upset about them ruining the landscape.

When I got home I happened to catch the tail end of a documentary on the rescue of Orangutangs in Borneo. "Why all the fuss?" I initially asked in ignorance. This seemed like quite a major operation and it turns out that these amazing animals could become extinct and in Borneo they are being systematically wiped out. The reason for this is that the trees they live in and that they eat are being destroyed and replaced by Oil Palms, which can't sustain them.

So more Tree Art soon and if you want to help the Orangutangs, you can do so here This painting when finished will be heading to Park Gallery, Glasgow

Art, Painting and Life in General

2009-04-17T23:10:00.004+01:00

Another Friday comes around and I wonder where the time has gone.

If you follow the news page you will know that this is the calm before the storm for me as I have a lot coming up in June and July. I have to say though, I am having a thoroughly fantastic time working on a variety of new work.

The studios where I work house about 50 artists. Lots of different people with different opinions. Recently discussed was a competition, entered by several artists and it seems that the outcome was almost a foregone conclusion. Painters, apparently had no chance and this particular art competition was always going to be won by someone who would place a bath full of mud in a room or leave their unmade bed for all to see.

A theory that I heard recently is that art tutors are teaching students this type of art in order that they can get on with selling their own paintings with less competition.....now that's art!

I find some of this work interesting but you usually need the artist on hand to explain the piece. As such I have no problem with it but I hav notice a tendency so far (and it's only my experience) for certain types to look down on others. I just see it as people esteeming themselves in a different way.

It just makes me want to paint Marilyn and Elvis more.....now what do you think of my new Marilyn?

Elvis Art, Easter and Ultravox...

2009-04-14T20:55:00.004+01:00

What a bizarre Easter weekend it's been.

No rolling eggs for me but it all started off whith a bizarre incident on Friday night in Glasgow City Centre and the rest of the weekend bore a strange resemblance to Four Weddings and a Funeral.

Saturday night saw me attend the Ultravox reunion tour at the Armadillo in Glasgow. First time I had seen them since 1984 and it was the strangest but most enjoyable gig. Recapturing your youth amongst a sea of bald Uvox fans was on bettered by deciding to go into the studio on Easter Monday and continue working on a big Elvis canvas I started a while back.

Elvis. Big brushes, big fun and one for the art snobs....the next time someone tells me that I "shouldn't paint Marilyn at this stage in my career" I think will definately deserve a poke in the eye.

So how was your Easter?

New Life in Old Art

2009-04-03T21:27:00.004+01:00

I had a visit from another artist a few weeks ago who commented that he liked my work, although he realised that some of the paintings were not finished yet. I thought they were! Anyway, this has led to me working further and using different techniques on some pieces to see just how far I could take them.

Without getting all poetic about it, this has been one of the most exciting developments in my painting and I thought you might like to see a current piece with the painting as it was initially (red and green painting).

Also, for those of you waiting on the April newsletter, there may be a slight delay. I have been painting feverishly behind the scenes but full details soon on exciting events over the next two months including, Parade Artists Exhibition, Glasgow Southside Festival, McTears Third Contemporary Scottish Art Auction and a solo exhibition at ArtDeCaf in Glasgow's Merchant City on June 7th.

Dead Artists' Brush

2009-03-25T20:23:00.001Z

As promised:-

New Figurative Art

2009-03-24T19:26:00.004Z

The first part of 2009 has been quite a strange one for me : a few false starts and meanderings.

During February when I succummed to "man flu" I tried really hard to not get frustrated at not being able to get to the studio and paint. When I eventually returned it felt really different. It's hard to explain but as I said elsewhere in the blog, I have had the feeling that I am learning to paint all over again.

I have been working on some new pieces recently for various upcoming shows and to support the galleries who carry my artwork on a regular basis. It has been encouraging this week to have a strong, favourable reaction to this piece from various sources including other artists and gallery owners. He is not completed yet but shows the direction in which the new work is progressing.

The sad news today is that my "old faithful" brush which has painted many a Kiltie finally bit the dust. He just doesn't have another painting left in him. I plan to honour him by placing a photograph of him here soon!

Mother's Day

2009-03-22T18:25:00.004Z

I am not a fan of all the "days" that have been invented to extort money from us ("fathers day"?...come on!).
However, it has to be a heartless soul that doesn't give in and send their mum a card today.

No prim lunches for my mum though, I thought it was time my almost tee-total septegenarian got a tour of some Glasgow bars. Cheers Mum, it was fun.

There is only one pretty child in the world, and every mother has it. Unknown

Mothers of teenagers know why animals eat their young.Author Unknown

Mothers are fonder than fathers of their children because they are more certain they are their own. Aristotle

A suburban mother's role is to deliver children obstetrically once, and by car for ever after.Peter De Vries

The most remarkable thing about my mother is that for thirty years she served the family nothing but leftovers. The original meal has never been found. Calvin Trillin

It would seem that something which means poverty, disorder and violence every single day should be avoided entirely, but the desire to beget children is a natural urge.Phyllis Diller

All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That's his. Oscar Wilde

My mother had a great deal of trouble with me, but I think she enjoyed it. Mark Twain

My mother's menu consisted of two choices: Take it or leave it. Buddy Hackett

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. Tenneva Jordan

A man loves his sweetheart the most, his wife the best, but his mother the longest. Irish Proverb You don't really understand human nature unless you know why a child on a merry-go-round will wave at his parents every time around - and why his parents will always wave back. William D. Tammeus.

Working mothers are guinea pigs in a scientific experiment to show that sleep is not necessary to human life. Author Unknown

Male Art vs Female Art

2009-03-18T18:17:00.005Z

I really feel like I am getiing back into things after a couple of months where I was not able to get as many hours under my belt at the studio.

If you were to visit the studio at the moment then it really does look like an explosion in a paint factory. When I am feeling energetic it definately translates through to the cabvas. These are partially completed and are 3 x 2 foot canvases.

It's great having a "job" where you can't wait to get back to work the next day. What was I thinking all those years when I didn't paint?

Almost Abstract Art

2009-03-13T20:53:00.002Z

Can you guess what it is yet?

I have several new pieces on the go at the moment which is how I find I paint best.

I see this one very differently in my head from the way it looks now. I am happy to post these "in progress" shots as I get several people contacting me about them. So, happy to oblige.

It's been another really quick week: it is so true that time passes so quickly when you enjoy what you are doing and I am finding that I am completely absorbed in painting at the moment.

Painting is affected by so many things and at the moment there are several which I believe are shaping the way that things are headed.....it's great to just be enjoying the journey.

Figurative Art

2009-03-11T23:14:00.002Z

So far, this year has been one of real experimentation.

I was looking at some work from 4 years ago today and it is amazing to me when I see the changes in the way in which I paint.

The piece of figurative painting to the right is one of my latest "experiments" and came about after buying a new brush! I get really fond of my old brushed and used to the marks they make so painting with a new brush has been slightly strange.

I don't know which direction this painting is headed but you can expect to see the completed painting in the Blog or the new art section of Joehendry.com soon.

Glasgow Cathedral Art

2009-03-03T19:37:00.004Z

As I mentioned in the blog last week, I paid a visit (my first!) to Glasgow Cathedral.

The inside was fairly jaw-dropping but it's the outside which I have been working on since my visit. Having a background in design, it's tempting for me to get hung up on architectural detail and i really wanted to avoid that. Instead, I wanted this piece to convey the way that I felt when standing looking at the building. So, this painting is all about feeling and I can't see how anyone can't notice there jaw drop when they stand in the Cathedral area of Glasgow.

I hope to have this completed soon.

What A Difference A Day Makes Part II

2009-02-25T19:25:00.006Z

Today was one of those days when I was attacking big canvas, big style.

The pic to the right is the treescape based on the place in the dream which I had. If you see the version below, it was beginning to look slightly sinister. This was not what I wanted as th eplace I dreamt of felt like a safe and peaceful place. We will see where this one goes.

I also worked into my new Clydeside piece. I am enjoying the scale of this one also, as at over 3 feet square it seems to allow me to do justice to the scale of the Finnieston Crane and the feeling of that particular part of the river.

More big brushwork tomorrow!

City Art

2009-02-24T17:38:00.006Z

On Monday this week, I decided to have a wander around Glasgow with my camera and just see what came up.
First of all, there was a visit to Glasgow Cathedral. I am ashamed to say that I had never been insode the Cathedral before. I have wandered around the outside before but never ventured in. It is breathtaking inside and well worth a visit if you are visiting Glasgow.

It was then a trip around the Necropolis which is also fairly amazing and finally to my old haunt down by the "squinty bridge". I just adore this area of the Clyde where old meets new in quite a spectacular manner.

The only thing that still annoys me somewhat is that the Waverley paddlesteamer can't make it further into the city anymore. I used to live right on the banks of the Clyde and watching guests faces as a huge paddlesteamer sailed past the living room window was always quite amusing.

Back in the studio today and straight into a new Clydeside piece whilst the influence is still fresh. I have painted the Finnieston Crane and the "Armadillo" a few times now and I seem to enjoy bringing something new to it each time. This is another large scale piece, which I will post here when complete.

What A Difference A Day Makes

2009-02-19T19:38:00.003Z

Just a quick update as I get a fair few emails about work in progress. This is a further days work on my new painting of Jade for those of you who have been following it.

I still don't know exactly where it is headed but let's just say I am enjoying the journey!

I hope you approve - if you have any comments then please feel free to email me.

Cheers

Joe

Art De Caf

2009-02-18T18:11:00.006Z

After having a rotten 'flu for nearly 2 weeks I ventured out for the first time on Sunday and treated myself to a couple of beers. What a treat when I dropped in to ArtDeCaf in Glasgow's Brunswick Street to find that the gallery end of the bar had been taken over by Scottish Festival Strings. Without getting all poetic, I have to say that they were incredible to listen to. I couldn't resist telling the Cellist that I thought she and the guy on the flute were particularly good. For a posh bird she took it quite well but couldn't resist informing me that it was a Cello & Clarinet. I did know...honest! They even made "My Heart Still Goes On" sound good. Apologies for the sideways video but what do you expect after 3 beers and a Lemsip?

It was back to the studio again this week and it's amazing after a break that I feel like I am learning to paint again. I really do feel that a style is developing in my work. I have been trying to allow this to happen naturally rather than force. it. The piece above currently under the working title of "Corset" is one such piece of art and I am really excited about the way in which is progressing.

More new art soon, and if you get a chance, pop along to ArtDeCaf (now Braewell Galleries), they even have the odd Hendry on display now and again....

Heroin and dream art

2009-02-03T21:49:00.006Z

Thanks to the eagle-eyed amongst you who spotted my art on TV again. The documentary, "Mum, Heroin and Me" was run again the other night. I managed to get a shot of it this time. This is quite a harrowing documentary and it seems frivilous to be talking about a stylised painting of Madonna when such a serious matter is the topic. However, this is what I was painting 4 years ago and I know there are a lot of similar images about now but I have to say, I still like this design. Nice to see it on TV too!

And so to today's paintings. No, I have not been on holiday, and apologies to those of you who have been looking for new art. I have been working on various pieces since completing the artwork for the forthcoming McTears auction in March and I promise to get it all uploaded soon.

In the meantime, here's a sneak preview of what to expect, although this is by no means typical of the five canvases currently on the go. Believe it or not, this is taken from a very vivid recent dream. After searching my thoughts to try and find why I was dreaming about such a place, the nearest I can get to is that I recently watched the incredible "Pan's Labyrinth".

This painting is over 3 feet square and will be in the New Art section of the website soon

Rabbie Burns & Grace Jones

2009-01-24T15:09:00.004Z

It's been a week of contrasts. I have been frantically finishing things off for submission to the second McTears Scottish Contemporary Art sale and got to chill to when I got to see Grace Jones live in Glasgow.

After several requests I have painted a Kiltie in Burns tartan to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Burn's birth. Cheekily entitled "BUrNS", I am making him available as a limited edition print too. There will only be 250 of these produced. More details on the website.

The gig really was a case of Amazing Grace. It frustrates me that many people think of Grace as a scary Russell Harty beating brat. She is a fantastic singer, outstanding live performer and is a truly funny person with a great sense of humour. After a busy week it was great to have a boogie at the Grace gig and I could hardly believe it when she performed a long version of Slave To The Rythm whilst hula-hooping! Remember: this lady is now 60 years old!

Grace had some nice words to say about Scotland: some kind soul has uploaded this clip to Youtube.

Oh and a message to my Nephew in England if he reads this - belated Happy 21st Andrew. I hope you had a great day.

Happy New Year.....

2009-01-06T20:34:00.003Z

...to you.

After a break of two weeks, I really could not wait to get back into the studio this week. It always feels strange returning after being away for a while.

So how was Cristmas for you? It can be a lovely time of the year if your kids are young. Otherwise I am beginning to find myself asking why do we bother? This year, I heard of several deaths, a suicide and just about everyone I know having flu. My sister summed it up for me when she told me how she witnessed a blind woman in M & S trying to buy a turkey at about 8.30 am whilst being buffeted by those round about her.

Anyway, in a mood determined to not be affected by it all I continued work this week on a new piece, a portrait of outstanding Scots actor Alan Cumming. This has been an antidote to all the Christmas and New year nonsense as he has one of those faces that just make you want to smile. He may very well be headed for the McTear's Scottish Contemporary Art auction which I am delighted to have been asked to participate in again.

Finally for now, I decided to have a pretty spectacular January sale, thinking, "what the heck" I substantially reduced prices for subscribers. This was for several reasons: one of them was that I had received several emails asking me when i would be having an offer as I had not done so for quite some time. Now I am getting emails asking me if I am about to do a Woolworths and go bust! So, thank you for your concern, it does mean a lot and I am actually selling art in various galleries and online very well at the moment. The sale was a genuine attempt to give something back to those who have supported me over the past few years and who have taken an interest in my art.

Hopefully I will still be here to rant about Christmas again next year....

2008-12-16T16:03:00.008Z

More free spirited-painting this week which is great! I am grateful for all the Christmas commissions but as they are coming to an end it is also good to just let the paint fly and have a play around. It's good sometimes just to see where the paint takes me.

This work in progress had an off white background and I decided in a moment of sponenaity to turn it crimson. This could very well prove to be a mistake ...but wait a minute....are their any mistakes in art? And before you think I am getting too heavy, I would answer that I don't know and the way that this painting finally ends up will be anyones guess.

Red or cream?

Friends & Neighbours

2008-12-13T14:13:00.004Z

This year seems to have gone by in a flash, especially the second half.

From a career point of view and despite the "recession", things seem to be heading in the right direction for me, for which I am truly grateful. I have taken part in no less than 11 exhibitions between August and December, the last of which finishes today. It has been an exciting time and I have tried hard not to let the pressure of demand for work affect the quality.

Recently I have been woking on a mix of work to give me balance, painting some landscapes and park scenes of favourite places that I have visited and also working on contrasting pieces.

I love working figurative pieces and the only issue I have is that of models. Believe it or not, I am quite shy when it comes to people posing for me and I tend to work mainly from photographs. I have also politely declined many requests from sitters, but it's nothing to do with them and everything to do with me feeling comfortable. My neighbour is, to say the least a bit of a character to say the least and when she offered to pose for me we had a blast putting some shots together. I am hoping to produce a series of these over the next few months. The first is in the current art section of the website in amongst the landscapes and Kiltie art!

Art In The News

2008-11-23T14:08:00.004Z

Well, I made the Sunday papers again! That's twice this year so I must be doing something right.

I took part in the Scottish Contemporary Art sale which was an auction in Glasgow on 22nd November. When I was first asked to take part in this event I thought someone was winding me up as the other artistsinvolved were very well established compared to my 4 years and there were also two of my college lecturers exhibiting.

The event it'self was exciting - I think auction attendance could easily become addictive! What has struck me over the past while has been a considerable amount of negativity surrounding this event. I have been criticised by other artists for taking part and also for the content of some of my work. I am glad that I have not let this bother me too much: there is enough negativity around at the moment.

The press article was reporting the downturn in the market and like other markets, it obviously is there. I am delighted that I did well at the auction and it seems an appropriate point to say "thanks" to everyone not only who bid, and bought, but to all of you who have supported my career over the past few years and that includes gallery owners, customers and people who have taken the time to write me supportive emails.

Anyway, enough of the "sentimentals", can I go for a beer now? :-)

Amazing Grace

2008-11-19T19:52:00.005Z

Apologies for the lack of updates on the Blog and on the website. As the cold weather hits I have landed myself with my annual chest infection. This one has been a sly one though: it lets you think it has gone and then comes back adding laryngitis and conjunctivitis to boot...lovely.

Anyway, enough of that. I did manage to struggle out one night, doped to the eyeballs with paracetamol, with a friend to see Sigur Ros. This was courtesy of the company that I used to work for in my old design days (it seems so long ago now) and I have to say it was an excellent gig. I think it must have got into my brain as I painted a piece which seems to have been influenced by standing ina crowd.

I also found out recently that Grace Jones is touring. Grace gets criticised by those who don't know her. I saw her for the first time in 2002 and I have to say it was one of the best gigs I have ever been to. The new album, "Hurricane" is excellent too so I got into "Jones" mode and have been painting the piece shown here just for the hell of it..

New Art Thinking

2008-10-31T20:15:00.004Z

It's been one of these weeks when I have found that the painting has been coming free and easily and I have been able to just paint things from my head - if that makes sense.

The new piece on the right is one such example. The other thing that I have noticed is that I am changing to painting on square canvas far more frequently for some reason.

Other than that I have been thinking about how tedious the controversy over Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross has been. Has the world gone mad? Ok, it was out of order and yes, I have listened to the full broadcast. With everything else going on in the world at the moment it just seems to me that we have our priorities all wrong.

If they were going to be so offensive they could at least have gone to the trouble of being funny at the same time.

Art Mania

2008-10-25T10:22:00.004+01:00

Well my fears about no-one turning up to the launch of the "Assemblage" solo show were unfounded. A huge thank you to all of you who came to the gallery on such a wet and windy night. A big thanks also to all the staff at Park Gallery who were fantastic at not only looking after all the visitors but for taking care of a slightly hyper artist at the start of the evening. The exhibition continues until the 9th of November.

I thought I would collapse in a heap after working so much in the run up to the exhibition but the energy has remained and I was back in the studio working on several new pieces yesterday which I am enjoying as I am just letting them develop and see where they go on their own.

It's funny the things that people notice. I had a couple of phone calls from friends the other night to say that my art had been on TV. In the very sad documentary "Heroin, Mum and Me" on Channel 4, the girl who is the subject of the film is in a cafe in Brighton and guess whose art is on the wall behind them? Well, it's a start....cheers Channel 4!

The Exhibitionist

2008-10-22T19:10:00.004+01:00

Tomorrow night sees the second solo show of my career at Park Gallery in Glasgow.

If there is a time for nervousness then this is it! Most of the artists I know have fears that no-one will turn up. A lot of artists I know ask other artists, just to fill the space. I also know one artist who doesn't show up to his own preview evenings, just to create an air of aloofness!

Well, everything has been done, the paint has dried and there are now 37 paintings hanging on the main wall in the gallery. I will be there barring disaster and I am looking forward to meeting some of you there.

"Assemblage" is a collection of new work and I have also re-visited some favourite pieces from the past and created new versions of them. There is even a piece which I painted when I was 15 years old.

Here's to tomorrow. The exhibition runs until 9th November.

Boy's Just Want To Have Fun

2008-10-17T18:40:00.005+01:00

Last night I had a break from painting frantically, trying to complete pieces for next weeks solo show at Park Gallery and went with an old friend to see Cyndi Lauper at the Carling Academy in Glasgow.

Let me firstly say that I have never really been a fan of "Girl's Just Want To Have Fun" but I really do love some of Cyndi's other work. Anyway, it was a fab gig apart from the sound quality being lousy for the first 15 minutes, the guy in front who kept flicking his greasy hair into my face and the "security" staff.

My friend, who is in her mid 50's was shoved by one of thesecurity "ladies" but wasn't going to let her away with it: she advised her that she was not drunk, was a "mature lady" and was not going to accept being treated in that way. Way to go! Said security people then spoke loadly all through "True Colours". Get another job I say.

As for the greasy hair -flicker....well that's what I get for going up to the front. It was hardly a mosh-pit but definately where you go for a better time! I know I should really grow up a bit and go to the back with the people my own age.....but I point blank refuse!

As for the leg painting, it's a kind of tribute to the night. (My "stripey legs" painting was created after seeing Goldfrapp perform.)

Below is a great clip of Cyndi in Manchester, cool lady :-)

DaVinci Influence?

2008-10-12T15:14:00.003+01:00

Some strange goings on this week. I have been painting much new work in the run up to my solo exhibition at the Park Gallery on October 23rd. I have been painting various male and female figurative pieces and finished this new acrylic painting this week. Several people have commented that the male figure looks like Jesus. I can see where they are coming from but his face just turned out that way. I have no intention of offending anyone and who knows what Jesus looked like anyway?

In a similar vein, I had bought for me yesterday, A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle. This is the third copy of this book that I have owned as I have given the others away. If you have not read it then I can recommend it highly. I't's not new-age claptrap and is possibly the most amazing book which I have ever read.

I was interested to see a new book next to it on the shelf in Borders entitled "A New Earth an Old Deception: Awakening to the Dangers of Eckhart Tolle and his No 1 Bestseller" by Richard Abanes. I stood and read several pages and just can't believe how much this guy has missed the point. Missed the point of what Eckhart Tolle is saying and then written a book about it.

The thing is, in the past, I would have felt quite angry that someone had gone to all this trouble to try and undermine something which I believe to be of great value. However, it really didn't bother me that much.

It was at this point that I also decided to leave the "Jesus" face on my painting.

Spanish Eyes

2008-09-29T10:52:00.004+01:00

I am recently back from a break to Spain. Barcelona area, and I have been meaning to write about it since I returned but it has been hectic getting things ready for some upcoming exhibitions.

I really feel at home in Spain perhaps something to do with my paternal grandmother coming from their (my mum's side is Irish.....has everyone got a bit of Irish in them?).

If you have read previous blogs, you will know that in Glasgow I can sometimes be found propping up the bar in ArtDeCaf, so it was good to find this home from home...it was worth stopping and posing anyway.

So, after a few massages on the beach it's back to the studio and I have to say that I am definately "full of beans" and looking forward to seeing what I produce over the next few months.

No Art Activity?

2008-09-23T20:43:00.004+01:00

I've received some emails recently asking if I am ok.

Thanks for your concern and apologies for the lack of activity on the website.

I guess this looks like the calm before the storm....I am still painting, in fact between August and December this tear I have no less than nine events. As I have been working on pieces exclusively for these, I have not been uploading them to the website. That will begin to change now as some of the exhibitions take place.

To the right is a new oil piece which I am working on for the "Boys & Girls" (working title) exhibition at the Park Gallery in Glasgow. The preview is on the 23rd October. Please feel free to drop in and say hello that evening.

I am working on a diverse range of canvases at the moment and tonight I have uploaded a couple of new pieces to the current art gallery.

Also, I have just returned from a weeks rest in Barcelona. After a flurry of late nights trying to complete paintings, it was good to get away. What was not so good was that I flew with Globespan, who changed the flight from 8pm to 3 in the morning the next day. Add to that the fact that they hadn't kept my booked extra leg room seats and I just about needed another break to recover from the flight.

Oh to travel Club Class :-)

J.K. Rowling and Other Scots

2008-09-04T20:46:00.004+01:00

Thanks for the emails asking if I am still alive. It's lovely to know that people out there actually do look at my website.

There has not been much uploading of new work over the past while: apologies for that if you have been looking in to see new art.

Things seem to have taken a leap skyword and I have no less than 9 events from August to December.

On the right is a sneak preview of a work in progress which is being painted for a very special event in December this year. I am sworn to secrecy at the moment but more news on it soon. This painting of JK Rowling is called the "White Witch". I am attempting to catch the charm and sinister nature of a brilliant mind whilst tipping a hat to the feel of the Harry Potter movies.

This also gives me a chance to tell my JK Rowling story! Back around 1996, I worked as a Designer for a company in Edinburgh. We were based in an old, listed building by a graveyard. In the morning, I would drive in through the gate and sometimes be met by a lady driving a Mazda 323, same car that I was, in the same colour: midnight blue. She lived in a small flat which was part of the railway bridge nearby the office. She was apparently quite annoyed at people blocking her exit and wrote a letter to my then boss. He wishes he had kept it as the lady was indeed, JK Rowling herself.

My guess is she no longer drives the same car as I do.....

Cruel World

2008-08-16T09:22:00.007+01:00

Every so often, something comes along in our lives which stops us in our tracks. This is probably going to be quite a "heavy" blog post for me but I ask you to take a few moments to read it.

At the begining of this week, I was fairly disturbed to see the war in Georgia and it made me think about the madness that goes on the the world. Nations behaving like schoolboys in a playground and fighting rather than reaching solutions without destruction and death.

Following some ordinary living, painting etc, I settled down the other night to watch a programme which I had recorded on Channel 4, Kill It, Skin It Wear It. I would start off by saying that I would not describe myself as an "animal lover". I like animals and I once owned a dog but I am in no way fanatical.

For the first time, I really understood why some people get so upset about animal welfare. The footage in this programme was possibly the most disturbing that I have ever seen in my life. I have used a fairly tame image of a caged mink above because I think that people should have the right to decide if they want to view disturbing images. What I would say though, is that just because you can't see something doesn't mean that it doesn't happen.

The image of an animal being skinned alive will stay in my brain forever. The shot of the still moving animal, robbed of its skin and fur, with it's eyelashes still blinking and limbs moving will never leave me. I just don't understand how a human could do this. This footage was shot in China, who are currently hosting the Olympics and trying to promote their country. Much has been said about their human rights record but it seems that they have an equally disgraceful animal abuse record.

So, no chat about painting in this post. I understand that many people of older generations were not really educated as to why wearing fur is wrong. Today, we really have no excuse. It's disappointing to note that many of the big design houses and celebs are getting back into fur. Maybe if they had to peel the skin from a living animal and look into it's eyes they would reconsider. Humanity at its worst.

I recommend you view this video link with caution.

Sunday Mail Article and Youtube Nephew

2008-07-28T21:03:00.002+01:00

Apologies for the lack of posting but things have been fairly hectic.

The Sunday mail interviewed me last week. I was looking forward to seeing the artical but lets just say I was slightly gobsmacked when i bought my copy and saw that it was a whole page!

The Kilties have gone down a storm and thanks to everyone for all the kind messages. A huge thank you to everyone involved at the Sunday mail. The article was unexpected and very much appreciated.

My nephew took it upon himself to do some promotion of is own for his "old uncle" and produced the Youtube piece which I have uploaded to the right. Cheers Steve, I am very flattered! Thanks also for not putting Drum and Bass music over it! ;-)

Bonnie Scotland

2008-07-20T19:30:00.006+01:00

Today was one of those days when I got up

early and decided to just get out. I went to visit friends who live on the banks of Loch Awe.

It was one of those days went you expect nothing

and get a lot out of it.

Bob lives in a caravan at the moment while he is having a house built. After having some duck eggs for lunch it was off to his boat which is a whole 30 second walk from the caravan. I wasn't in the back seat for long and was soon scooting up and

down the dark blue waters of the Loch: Scotlands

longest freshwater loch. It was amazing even though

my skippering skills were somewhat questionable!

I seem to forget living in a City that some of the most stunning scenery in the world is on my doorstep and I can completely understand why Bob and others like him have decided to opt-out of City life and live an altogether more tranquill existence.

The thought of having a studio somewhere like this and painting landscapes forever crossed my mind: as did the thought of having a boat and keeping my own hens. My only regret is that I don't have any hair to feel the wind rushing through as we hurtled up and down the water.

Winning Things and Marilyn Monroe Art

2008-07-18T17:03:00.005+01:00

I found out earlier this week that I have won a place to the finalists exhibition at the "Pride In The House" exhibition at Lauderdale House in London.

I am fair chuffed! I was thinking that I have never really won anything before apart from a drawing board over 20 years ago when I was a student. Then I realised that I don't really enter competitions and you have to be in it to win it as the old cliche goes!

I am not sure if it is myself and 2 others or 4 other artists but I am furiously finishing pieces of for dispatch to London. Details of the event are on my News and Events page at joehendry.com. There is a preview evening on August 6th if you are in that neck of the woods.

Also, as promised, here's Marilyn....see the incomplete painting below. I may leave her as she is now but, knowing me I may fiddle with her a bit more.

Have a great weekend wherever you are,

Joe