Robie Benve Art

I was commissioned by some good friends to paint this view of Bassano, a town in Italy that they love very much. I've had it on my easel for a while, keeping it on the back burner, adding some more paint every once in a while. One of the reasons I procrastinated was that they had no rush. The other reason was that I was afraid to mess it up for them. Now it's done, ready for delivery.  And with great relief I think it turned out well.  : ) The view is quite similar to the real one, I only "moved" several elements closer to each other, so that they all fit in the painting: the home, the bridge, and the trees on the left of the building were visible from slightly different points of views. A few preliminary sketches helped me visualize how I could fit them all in the same scene. "Bassano" Oil on canvas 18"x24" Sold As much as I was intimidated at the beginning, I actually enjoyed the whole painting process very much. I was afraid that...

"These Clouds Too Shall Pass" 8"x10" Oil on board Some days start as a nuisance from the beginning. You can just tell. The only way to survive and keep good things coming your way is to realize that no matter what, things are deemed to get better. The clouds are only temporary, the sun will shine again. Have faith. Think positive. Expect only the best to happen. Good times will come. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation,  by prayer and petition,  with thanksgiving,  present your requests to God.  Philippians 4:6 I painted this picture at a local park, specifically Walnut Woods Metro park, in Groveport, OH. It was a windy day, and the clouds kept coming and then moving out, just for more clouds to come. The light was changing quickly from sunny to cloudy, one of the typical challenges for plein air painters, you've got to learn to stick with the impression you want to render and avoid "chasing the light...

In the Poppy Field 12"x12" Oil on Canvas SOLD This bright poppy field reminds me of my Italy so much. My parents' house is white, even though it's not in a poppy field, they do have a big yard. When my mom asked me to bring her one of my paintings when I visited, I thought this was the perfect gift, with the cheerful flowers and the white house. I did not think at this at all while I was painting it, but I can see myself represented in that one poppy sticking up taller than the others, looking at the house in the distance. Even if I have been living in the United States for 15 years now, home is always my parents house. And I am posting this from my laptop on their kitchen table, joyful day!!!