Cover Art

On the Cover | Jan. 20, 2011

learn about this issue's cover art by Ruth Lundblad

“A Snow View” by Ruth Lundblad
(2009, mixed media painting on paper, 11" x 14")

John Houseman
 
Ruth Lundblad
The Snow View was painted in watercolors with some fun acrylic “snow” added. The bright red of the cardinal always attracts attention in our winter landscape as he views his snowy kingdom. Capturing the light, color and beauty of nature is a challenge for Ruth whether she is working in watercolors or acrylics. She enjoys realism but loves the surprises in her abstracts. She admits that some of her finest creations are “happy accidents.” Ruth belongs to the Beaver Creek Watercolor Club, the Eau Claire Area Art League and is currently president of the Valley Art Association. Her art can be seen daily at Tangled Up In Hue on Barstow and at many temporary venues in the area.” – The Artist

 

What we were thinking: “This cover was photographed over a year ago at the Beaver Creek Reserve by one of our staff members. As one can observe the piece is extremely seasonal and thus can only be used through out winter. Since there is so much snow depicted in the image we've held off featuring the artwork till now as there is more snow on the trees and ground than Eau Claire knows what to do with. This piece intrigued us because of the advanced techniques that were used to create it. You see when painting with heavier and thicker paints one utilizes white paint to bring out highlights and other white elements through out the rendering such as snow. Since white water color paint results in a chalky unnatural effect the artist has used a wax resisting technique that allows the white of the paper to show through once the painting has been finished. It gives the work a three dimensional feel as if snow streaks are sitting on top of the painting.” – V1 Designer Josh Smeltzer

Volume One finds it cover art in a number of ways, from local art shows to random emails to knowing someone who knows someone who knows a great artist. The art always originates from a current or former Chippewa Valley resident. If you'd like to submit cover art, send us a letter.