The Artistic Journey of Albert: From Brooklyn to Fine Arts | An Exclusive Interview
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Published 2012-11-28
Albert shares his unique path of education and self-discovery, starting with his Saturday classes at the Art Students League of New York and his invaluable, second-hand George Bridgeman education. He discusses the pivotal moments and mentors, including Lewis Priscilla and sculptor Robert Ward Johnson, who significantly shaped his artistic techniques and perspective.
Discover how Albert navigated the shift from illustration to fine arts, inspired by the likes of Norman Rockwell and Harold von Schmidt, and how his quest for artistic freedom led him to the vibrant scenes of the Village outdoor art show and mentorship under Frank Mason.
Albert recounts his transformative years in Europe, exploring the Old Masters and developing a profound connection with artists from 1850 to 1930. He opens up about his struggles and breakthroughs in embracing pastels, revealing how this medium challenged and expanded his artistic expression.
Learn about Albert's views on the importance of drawing, his advice to young aspiring painters, and his thoughts on the significant changes in representational art. His reflections on the medium, technique, and essence of being an artist offer invaluable insights for both emerging and established artists.
Albert's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of mentors, and the relentless pursuit of one's artistic voice. Whether you're an artist, art student, or simply an art enthusiast, this interview offers a treasure trove of wisdom, inspiration, and a deep look into the soul of a true artist.
Albert Handell online teaching series
tucsonartacademyonline.com/albert-handell-video
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction
1:20 - Early Days and Education
4:45 - Transition to Fine Arts
7:30 - European Influence and The Old Masters
11:00 - Embracing Pastels and New Challenges
15:25 - The Evolution of Representational Art
20:40 - Advice for Aspiring Artists
25:55 - Reflections on Artistic Identity and Process
30:10 - Closing Thoughts
tucsonartacademyonline.com/albert-handell-video
All Comments (20)
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What a great interview of a talented man. I could listen to his insight and experiences for hours.
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Wow i didn't know if I could sit through 30 minutes, now I wish this interview went on for hours. I love this man!
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You should interview Albert again. He is still going strong as a painter and teacher.
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Here’s a man that is happy in his own skin. It takes courage to listen to your own mind for guidance.
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I really like what Albert says at the end....."If you can sense who you are then never lose sight of it".
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Albert is wonderful!
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Philippe I could not have said it better. Albert is a national fine art treasury as far as I am concerned. As he said he was the first one to make outdoor pastel painting popular. Thank you so much for the great comment.
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wow.what an awesome fountain.would love to spend a year working with albert and his friends.thank you for making this interview and posting it.
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I really appreciated listening to him, since I've been unable to take any classes from him. Thank you.
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What a breath of fresh air. The individual process to art instead of conforming to what everyone says is the way you should go. Maybe that came from being "overprotective" as a child. ( not a bad thing)
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Albert is so genuine and his natural approach is so refreshing. I love his ease at describing his life and his art. There is an honesty in his work too. He is a brilliant draughtsman and colorist. I would like to see more of it. What a treasure. I met him recently in Santa Fe and hope to get him to speak at our gallery in Frederick.
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I think his advice for upcoming artists is invaluable! Albert is a great artist!
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Don't know how I missed this but enjoyed it, every word!
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Loved this video. I took a workshop from him and he seemed arrogant and impatient but to see this was so wonderful and insightful! He is a person who knows himself well. I watched him paint a painting for over an hour in 100 degree weather right in the sun. Was very interesting.
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He is such an inspiration! Soaked up every word.
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Thank you for you comment. As you know there are laws and rules in art. Rules can be broken but not laws. There are many way of approaching a painting and I agree that we all should have our own unique ways as long as those laws are not being broken.
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The wisdom of a true Master... Ok kids, drop your Ipods, your playstations, joysticks etc. and listen to this man, he is one of the lasts, the epiphany of humbleness... Remember this when you will be his age, what will you talk about when you have been asked about your youth experiences? will you really discuss how good you were at killing robots with joysticks on a plasma screen?
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very inspiring to hear him talk about how he faced dilema's specifically with- "you should work with a big brush" and "opaquely"... I feel the same way I don't like to work with big brushes and I like transparent paint as well, so many of the so called "plein air" movement painters get caught up in these generalities and are almost unaware that by teaching these unspoken rules they are standardizing out door painting, its sad, we should applaud unique working methods
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revere him
