Project 2280: Sombrero 3

This version of my Studio Journal in-progress reports is for Premium Content subscribers. This page gets the updates first, and includes materials not available in the Public and Members-Only versions (like timelapse videos). As a paid subscriber, you also have the option of putting your name on a list of those who will be notified first, and have first options to purchase, when a Project becomes a finished work of art.

ABOUT THE “MAKE A COMMENT” BUTTON: That button is there for everybody! Don’t feel you have to be an art expert or somehow “qualified” to make a comment. I want to hear from you, and if you’re a fan of my art, you’re qualified to make a comment. Thanks in advance for clicking that comment button and checking in with me. I appreciate it!

The updates below are in reverse chronological order, so the most recent is on top. To start from the beginning, go to the bottom of the page.

Report 3

Completion of Sombrero 3 Project

February 20, 2026

On February 18, I painted my third version of “Sombrero 3” live at Qulture. While it was entertaining for the crowd, and overall a great experience, I wasn’t that happy with the painting. There were a couple of factors–one, I realized the subject was just a bit too much to try to complete in 2 hours, even after 2 ‘practice’ studies. Secondly, l realized that after painting the subject twice already, it just didn’t excite me the way I thought it would. Result: I’m not releasing the third version. Study 1 remains a study, but I’m now considering the second study the final version and naming it “Sombrero 3.” You can see both the study and Sombrero 3 in the Collector Preview Gallery now.

Report 2

Project 2280: Sombrero 3, Study #2

February 17, 2026

My Sombrero 3 Project continues with a second, somewhat larger acrylic study. This was completed over  a couple of days and you can see its progress in the timelapse video above. Both studies are in preparation for a live painting demonstration at Qulture on February 18. This second acrylic study has just been added to the Collector Preview Gallery. As a subscriber to the Simonson website you have access to this gallery and a limited-time option to purchase this artwork -– just click on the Collector Preview button below.

Collector Preview Gallery
Report 1

Project 2280: Sombrero 3, Study #1

February 8, 2026

I’m beginning Sombrero 3 with a small acrylic study. This first preparatory study (working toward a larger, more finished work) was completed in a single session. This work has just been added to the Collector Preview Gallery. As a subscriber to the Simonson website you have access to this gallery and a limited-time option to purchase this artwork -– just click on the Collector Preview button below.

Collector Preview Gallery