Welcome to: Paintings By Roger
The styles of my paintings, whether contemporary or religious, demonstrate a consistent characteristic of having an underlying meaning. This meaning can take various forms, ranging from obvious and direct points to metaphors that invite deeper interpretation and contemplation.
And, on this site, I’ve added my comments explaining how I interpret my paintings as I see fit. Of course, your interpretations may be different, and that is fine. Please enjoy…
Viewed from the Thirteenth Street vantage point of Old Saint Mary’s Church steeple, offering a glimpse into the vibrant atmosphere of late 1920s Over the Rhine in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio.
From the towering height of the steeple, the cityscape unfolds below. The buildings, with their distinct architectural styles, line the streets, creating a charming urban backdrop. The gaslights lining the streets cast a warm, soft glow, imbuing the scene with a nostalgic ambiance. They serve as a reminder of the era’s reliance on this form of lighting before the widespread adoption of electric lights.
The vintage vehicles on the street below are animated with energy as cars from the late 1920s traverse the roads. The vehicles serve as a visual anchor for the time period, evoking the excitement and progress associated with the rise of the automobile industry.
In this bustling street scene, pedestrians stroll along the sidewalks, each clad in attire appropriate for the late 1920s. Man’s sport suits and hats, while women elegantly don dresses and fashionable accessories; which depicts the distinct styles and silhouettes of the era, providing a glimpse into the fashion sensibilities of the time.
Hopefully, my painting captures the spirit and ambiance of late 1920s Over the Rhine in Cincinnati, Ohio, which should immerse you in a captivating moment in history.
I invite you to experience the joy of a childhood adventure, the beauty of nature, and the comfort of home, all within the magical setting of a snowy landscape.
My use of color, light, and brushstrokes evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia. The contrasting red coat against the white snow creates a visually striking composition, while subtle variations in lighting capture the soft glow of the winter sun or the reflection of light on the snowy surfaces.
The painting captures a delightful winter scene as a young boy returns home from school to his farm, accompanied by his loyal dog. It portrays the enchanting ambiance of a snowy day into a world of serenity and childhood innocence. Their shared journey emphasizes the bond between the two as the boy remarks to the dog: “Almost Home, Boy.”
In the distance, the farmhouse awaits their arrival. Its chimney emits a wisp of smoke, indicating the warmth and comfort that await them. Through this focal point, it symbolizes the notion of home, safety, and belonging.
With the snowy landscape to the overall atmosphere, I’ve portrayed a winter wonderland with the ground covered in a pristine layer of snow. And the barren trees adorned with delicate branches covered in snow enhances the serene and peaceful tranquility.
Throughout history, countless paintings have eloquently captured the splendor of nature, the profound connection between humanity and the animal kingdom, and have invited viewers to contemplate the serene interconnectedness of our world.
In my own endeavor, I sought to evoke such sentiments in my painting, portraying a tranquil summer day. Within it, a young woman gracefully stands amidst a lively field of sunflowers, her faithful dog by her side, while overhead, crows gracefully take flight.
Yet, the emotional resonance of my work delves far beneath its surface. The woman depicted is a poignant representation of my beloved wife. Unbeknownst to her, our lives intertwined within a mere two-mile radius during our upbringing.
During one summer, I nurtured three crows, an experience later immortalized in my book, “Me Mother Crow,” penned as a legacy for our grandchildren.
Prior to its publication, she expressed a wistful desire to have witnessed those crows firsthand. Her words lingered with me, and upon her passing after fifty cherished years together, I envisioned her adorned in a resplendent red dress and a radiant yellow sunhat, set against the backdrop of golden sunflowers.
In her hand, she holds an empty basket, symbolizing her innate connection to the land and her role as a gatherer of nature’s abundance.
Beside her stands her loyal canine companion, a testament to the enduring bond between humans and animals. The dog’s attentive stance exudes warmth and companionship, mirroring her contemplative gaze directed towards the distant three crows.
My painting’s focal point is the depiction of two young brothers embarking on a whimsical journey down a dirt path. I’m trying to capture the essence of childhood innocence and the special bond shared between siblings.
The younger brother, portrayed with a touch of uncertainty, walks alongside the older brother who holds his hand. The older brother exudes a sense of responsibility and gentle affection, evident in his nurturing nature and protective gaze. With a slight tilt of his head, he guides and leads his younger sibling with confidence and reassurance. This tender interaction between the brothers emphasizes their strong connection and showcases the support they offer each other as they navigate through life’s adventures.
Beyond its visual appeal, it carries a symbolic depth. The two boys walking down the dirt path represent more than a simple afternoon adventure; they embody courage and faith in moving forward and forging their own paths in life. It serves as a reminder that, even in the face of the unknown, one can find the strength to embrace new experiences and overcome challenges, guided by the support of loved ones.
My painting captures the essence of a carefree summer day, blending vibrant colors and warm tones to convey the heat and brightness of the season. It evokes feelings of tenderness, youthfulness, and the simple joys of life. One can appreciate the beauty of nature, the innocence of childhood, and the unconditional love between a little girl and her dog.
The focal point of the painting is a magnificent, towering tree, serving as a natural backdrop. Its broad, leafy branches provide ample shade, offering respite from the scorching sun. The tree’s presence symbolizes strength and stability, contrasting with the girl’s innocence and the dog’s playful energy.
As she sits on the ground, wearing a vibrant yellow dress, her loyal and affectionate dog waits patiently with anticipation of receiving a treat from the box in her small hands. This demonstrates her nurturing nature and care for her furry friend. The treats serve as a tangible representation of their bond and the joyful moments they share. And her little yellow hat lies on top of the neatly stacked cut wood, indicating a heartwarming display of fun and games she just played, joyfully.
My painting depicts a profound and introspective moment, focusing on the figure of Peter the Apostle, an aged and wise man.
It portrays Peter as an old man, with a partially bald head and a gray beard, showcasing the passage of time and the weight of experience. He wears a flowing red robe, symbolizing his association with the Church and his role as a spiritual leader.
Peter’s gaze is directed upward, fixed on the moon that emerges through a veil of drifting clouds. The moonlight casts a soft glow, illuminating Peter’s face and highlighting the contemplative expression in his eyes. This celestial scene serves as a metaphor for Peter’s deep sense of solitude and the immense responsibilities entrusted to him by Jesus Christ.
I tried to capture the essence of Peter’s internal struggle as he ponders the weight of his mission to change the world. His awareness of being alone in this pivotal task adds to the gravity of the moment; and convey the emotions of solemnity, reflection, and a touch of melancholy through Peter’s posture and facial expression.
Through this portrayal, I invite you to contemplate the burdens and responsibilities that come with leadership and the pursuit of a noble cause. It encourages reflection on the individual’s journey, the weight of personal convictions, and the willingness to carry forward a divine mission, despite the challenges and isolation it may entail.
The painting depicts an elderly woman, my great grandmother, as the focal point, emanating a sense of grace and wisdom. She is adorned in a white polka dot black dress, which lends a timeless elegance to her appearance. Around her neck, she wears a white pearl necklace, a symbol of sophistication and refinement.
Leaning gently on a white fence post, she creates a subtle juxtaposition between her delicate presence and the sturdy structure. The fence serves as a metaphorical barrier between her and the outside world, suggesting a sense of contemplation and reflection. It also adds a touch of visual depth to the composition.
Through her rimless glasses, she gazes out into the distance, her eyes revealing a depth of experience and a hint of nostalgia. It is as if she is peering beyond the physical realm, reminiscing about the moments and memories that have shaped her life. Her expression may hold a mixture of joy, melancholy, or contentment, reflecting the emotions associated with her reminiscing.
The painting captures a poignant moment in time, portraying the essence of the woman’s existence and the stories held within her eyes. It invites you to reflect upon your own life and consider the narratives they carry, bridging the gap between generations and connecting us through shared experiences and the passage of time.
My painting portrays a serene and somewhat meditative scene of a three-year-old girl sitting under a charming gazebo, seated on a wooden bench. Her vibrant yellow shorts should catch one’s attention, adding a playful element to the overall atmosphere.
The girl’s long brown hair cascades around her, framing her face and drawing attention to her deep in thought. Her head is slightly bowed, suggesting introspection and a moment of quiet contemplation. It evokes a sense of innocence and curiosity, as if she is lost in her own world, pondering profound ideas or daydreaming about endless possibilities.
The garden setting surrounding the girl creates a harmonious backdrop. Lush Ohio trees stretch towards the sky, providing shade and a sense of tranquility. The mid-summer season is reflected through the presence of yellow flowers, which dot the landscape, infusing the scene with vibrant hues and a touch of warmth.
So, the combination of the girl’s introspective pose, the gazebo, and the surrounding natural elements creates a serene and nostalgic ambiance. With the beauty of nature and the innocence of childhood, perhaps reminding you of your own moments of deep reflection and the importance of finding solace in nature’s embrace.
My painting is a white golden retriever captured in a moment of profound contemplation. Her deep stare pierces through the canvas, drawing you into its world with an almost magnetic pull. With one eye, it peers intently through, maybe a fence or around a corner of a building, revealing its unwavering patience and remarkable fortitude.
She exudes a sense of calm and serenity, as if her gazing has been for an eternity. The tranquil demeanor touches against the barrier it faces, symbolizing the struggles and obstacles we encounter in life. Yet, the dog’s unwavering focus and determined gaze showcase an unwavering spirit, reminding us of the power of perseverance and resilience.
I’ve tried to capture every nuance of the dog’s expression bringing the painting to life. Hopefully, I’ve created a sense of emotional depth which adds a touch of mystery to the composition and evokes a sense of introspection and contemplation.
Overall, there’s a testament to the dog’s captivating presence and the dog’s unwavering patience and fortitude. It serves as a powerful reminder to embrace challenges with determination, remain patient in the face of adversity, and find strength within ourselves even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
My painting captures the essence of a campsite created by three young individuals who have embraced the beauty of nature and harnessed their creativity to transform an ancient, lifeless tree into a gathering place for warmth and friendship.
At its center stands a majestic, towering dead tree, weathered by time and standing as a silent witness to the passage of seasons. Despite its lifelessness, the tree exudes a certain grandeur, its gnarled branches reaching out like bony fingers against the sky.
In the foreground, three young individuals have used rocks skillfully arranged as pavements, creating a meandering trail that leads the viewer’s eye deeper into the painting. The rocks form a natural pathway through the campsite with a sense of adventure.
Within the camp, a circle of creek rocks has been arranged meticulously, forming a rustic fire pit. It suggests the warmth and camaraderie shared around a crackling fire. On either side of the fire pit, two log benches have been fashioned, their rough-hewn surfaces contrasting with the smoothness of the surrounding rocks.
As spring emerges, the landscape comes alive with the promise of renewal. The once barren surroundings now showcase vibrant touches of green foliage. The leaves of trees and shrubs emerge in various shades, bringing forth a sense of rebirth and vitality to the campsite. The newfound spots of greenery provide a lush backdrop, creating a harmonious blend of nature and human habitation.
My painting captures the essence of Mother Teresa’s inner struggle, emphasizing her suffering emotions over her physical appearance. The intention is to evoke a deep sense of compassion within your mind by diverting attention from the familiar face of Mother Teresa and focusing on the raw and vulnerable aspects of her being.
By portraying Mother Teresa with a subtle but poignant depiction of physical frailty, I tried to capture her tremendous burdens she carried throughout her life. Purposefully, I’ve avoided idealizing her appearance, instead choosing to emphasize her humanity and the toll that her selfless acts of compassion took on her.
The colors employed in the painting are subdued and muted, reflecting a somber and introspective mood. The dark background plays a significant role in highlighting the depths of her emotions, with the weight of her responsibilities and the challenges she faced.
Through this approach, my aim was to transcend the superficial and create an emotional connection between you and Mother Teresa’s profound empathy and compassion. By emphasizing her suffering emotions, my intention is to compel you to look beyond her familiar face and delve into the depths of her selflessness, inspiring a greater understanding and empathy for her noble mission.
Overall, this painting strives to evoke a powerful emotional response from you to cultivate compassion and reflect upon the challenges faced by individuals like Mother Teresa, who dedicate their lives to alleviating the suffering of others.
My religious painting depicts Saint Padre Pio, a revered priest known for his numerous blessings and extraordinary spiritual gifts. The focus of the painting is on the saint’s contemplation of a candle, which serves as a symbol of hope in our unpredictable world.
The central figure is Saint Padre Pio, portrayed with great reverence and detail. His countenance reflects a deep sense of inner peace and serenity, indicating his profound connection to the divine. I’ve tried to capture the saint’s compassionate gaze, which invites you to join in his contemplation and experience the hope that emanates from the candle.
The flame of light itself holds symbolic significance within the painting. It represents the light of hope that Saint Padre Pio brought to the lives of countless individuals. In this unpredictable world, the candle serves as a beacon, illuminating the path towards faith, healing, and spiritual transformation.
This visual reminder of the power of his faith, compassion, and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many, Saint Padre Pio in this moment of reflection, invites you to delve into your own spiritual journey and seek solace in the hope it embodies.
Therefore, Saint Padre Pio encapsulates his spiritual presence, emphasizing his ability to inspire hope, perform miracles, and offer healing to those in need. It serves as a testament to his extraordinary life and the profound impact he continues to have on the faithful.
