Chase bank, painting en plein air, and the LAPD

Originally posted 7/30/11
I started another burning bank painting today, this time the Chase branch in Van Nuys. I got lots of thumbs up and likes from passersby but after an hour and a half the cops showed up. They said someone called thought I might be a terrorist. It was a peaceful encounter and I think the cops felt a little silly writing me up; its a long way from painting a visual metaphor of the banks to actual terrorism. They ran my ID through their computer, we chatted a bit and they let me go. I can't wait to start another one now! Aahahah! Who would have thought plein air painting could become an episode of COPS? The piece needs a little more work but I'm going to let it get good and dry and do more in the meantime. Oil on canvas, 22 by 28

chase

Originally published 7/24/11

I was inspired to paint some plein air yesterday, and to add another burning building to my series, so I set up in front of Chase bank in Burbank and had at it. I got 90% of it done on location and the put the finishing touches on the fire at the Hive gallery during the closing show. I photographer there filmed a time lapse of the flames ... I'm curious to see how that looks! Oil on canvas, 20 by 24