Good Moo-orning!

How time flies! When I was in Iowa a few weeks ago, this lovely lady greeted us early every morning as we went to set up for plein air painting. I just had to paint her!

I've been working hard to prepare for my upcoming shows. My new paintings include a variety of figurative and landscape works.

Happy Couple and a link to more photos

It seems I've found a niche in preserving a moment of bliss for happy couples about to tie the knot. What a great idea -- A gift of a fine art oil painting will last for generations! This one gave me some concern ... with close to 100% humidity for the last week or two, the painting wouldn't dry! It normally takes about six weeks to dry to the touch, but this one is well beyond that.

On another note, here are some photos posted by our wonderful hostess from last week's plein air workshop: http://showcase.netins.net/web/agricol/plein_air_painting.htm

Painting in Iowa

Last week I attended a plein air painting workshop in Iowa with Vermont artist and instructor, Andrew Orr. Andrew is a wonderful artist whose work I've admired through his blog for some time (http://andreworrstudio.blogspot.com/). It was grueling work, but I have to say that if I intend to paint en plein air I'd better get used to it. As was explained, the best light can generally be found early in the morning or later in the evening. So we woke up every morning by 5:30am and were out and ready to paint by 7am. At this time of year, it would probably help to get out even earlier. We would break for lunch and an afternoon siesta, and then head out again from about 5-8:30pm. Those evenings were especially difficult. I felt like I was being eaten alive by the bugs! I did find out that a common midwest remedy for keeping gnats away is Absorbine, Jr. (go figure). I learned so much from this workshop, and can't wait to continue to put it to use! Here is one of the paintings I worked on this week. This one is 16x20. Most of the work we did were smaller studies.

Beach Baby 2

Art is a curious thing... creating art is even more so! I painted this little darling a few years ago, and was very pleased with the final product at that time. But my strong desire to continue to develop in my career has me looking back at former paintings and critiquing them. So I pulled out the brushes and paint and did it again, just to see how or if I've changed in my execution. I think I'm starting to lose my "fear of the dark" and am less afraid of strong colors and contrasts. I attribute this to the guidance of wonderful teachers, including Ken Marsden and Daniel Gerhartz, and I'm looking forward to spending a few days with Andrew Orr.

It's going to be a busy summer! Here are some of the places I'll be showing if you happen to be in the area:

Art on the Rocks, July 31-Aug 1, Marquette, MI
Oshkosh Opera House, August 7 (6-9pm), Downtown Oshkosh, WI
Milwaukee Domes Art Festival, August 20-22, Milwaukee, WI

Thank you for visiting my blog!

Beach Baby 2, 10" x 10"

Little Church on the Hill

This little country church is not too far from where I live. I've enjoyed traveling past it in all seasons, but I think it's most beautiful in the fall. Some day I'll paint it en plein air, but for now my photos will have to suffice.

Young Love

This is a another try at an earlier painting that I called "Little Spies." I really liked the composition of the first painting, but wanted to zoom in and create a stronger focal point. I also believe I'm growing in my craft, and really like the light and shadow effects in this painting. The sunlight coming through the branches of the tree needed particular attention. I enjoyed the process! The actual size of this painting is 12 x 24.

The Shadow Knows

Everyone I know has experienced life in a different way. That's what makes us unique. We all have our shadows that tell a story only we can share. I think that is part of the reason I enjoy painting people. The technical aspects of portrait and figurative painting include more than just putting paint on a canvas. The challenge to me is to capture a person's inner qualities as well as to reproduce their image. This is Linda. Her gentle shadow in the background represents the light that shines on her, and from her. She is a friend, and an inspiration.

Best Friends Forever

A friend of mine asked if I would be willing to paint a miniature portrait for her collection of postcard-sized works. After I said I'd attempt the challenge, she gave me a photo of another friend of hers and asked if I could work it in. Thank goodness for Photoshop! After cutting and pasting and playing with the composition on my computer, this is what I came up with as the final painting. It's very difficult to paint from a photo unless I have gotten to know the person! I hope I did them justice in this tiny size. The actual size is 4" x 6".

Plein Air Dreaming

The wind has been so strong this week that I can't even think about getting out to do some plein air painting. And there's snow in the forecast tonight! So I pulled out some of the photos I've been taking for reference and this scene called to me. It's so beautiful where I live (when the weather cooperates)!

Who was that masked woman?

My sister's birthday is the day after Halloween, and every year she celebrates in style! I finally took the opportunity to immortalize her in her most dramatic costume yet. Here she's hiding the fact that dozens of Swaroski (sp?) crystals are stitched into the front of her top and the costume is completely authentic, right down to the undergarments. The outfit was made for her by a local costume designer who has provided costuming for major films and plays across the country. She was absolutely breathtaking in it, but it's her inner beauty that is hard to depict in a painting!

Practice, Practice, Practice!

Here are some assorted studies from the painting groups I've been enjoying recently. It's wonderful to share time with other artists who also enjoy painting people!

Road Trip

I've been unexcusably lax in getting things posted here, and for that I apologize. It's not for lack of painting. I joined a life drawing group recently and have been doing a variety of portraits and nude studies. It's a wonderful opportunity to hone my figurative skills, but I've recently found that I really enjoy painting landscapes too. Here is one from a road trip my husband and I took about a month ago, thanks to the suggestion of a friend. (Thank you, Pam!) I'm looking forward to more opportunities to paint outdoors! Perhaps I'll begin to join people with nature in my paintings...

Warm Thoughts

February is always the most difficult month for me to tolerate here in the northwoods. Spring is so close I can almost feel it in the air. The snow began falling in early December, and those first flakes are still waiting to melt into the earth. Every so often we get a new blanket of white to brighten our spirits. We've been fortunate not to be hit by a major storm yet, and my heart goes out to those stranded on the East Coast in the aftermath of this weekend's big storm.

I haven't painted a winter landscape in a very long time. This one caught my eye and I was inspired to give it a try. I could almost hear the bigger horse saying to the small one, "Winter will be over soon. Come close, and I'll keep you warm." It's almost like a Valentine!

Faith, Hope, and Love

The Three Graces has been depicted in a variety of ways, and if you "Google" its meaning, you'll get a variety of answers. I choose to believe that they represent Faith, Hope, and Love. "...but the greatest of these is Love." (1 Corinthians 13:13)

This is the second time I've attempted the Three Graces, and it may not be my last. I'm really enjoying the process. Thank you for visiting, and to all my new followers on Networked Blogs in Facebook! I appreciate all your comments, as I am still, and hope to always be, in a learning phase.

I am taking pre-orders for this painting reproduced as a 6"x6" ceramic tile (without watermark as shown above) at a cost of $30. All orders received prior to March 1 will receive free shipping.

After the Rush

I know this Santa is "after the fact" but I couldn't let the inspiration fade. This jolly ol' elf came together quickly, and, although I am tempted to continue to play with him, I think I'll quit here. This painting evokes the mystery of who I believe Santa to be!

Proud Gramma

I finished this painting about 2-3 weeks ago, but couldn't post it until after Christmas. It was done as a gift for someone, and I didn't want to take a chance that the subject would see it! It's surprising to me how quickly it dried, considering many of my paintings in the summer months can take 6 weeks to lose their tackiness. I guess the air in my studio is pretty dry during the winter. I really like this one... I think it expresses my more "painterly" style that is continuing to develop.

Preparing for the holidays

It's been a while since I've posted here, not for lack of wanting to, but possibly for lack of focus. I hadn't painted in quite a while and now that Christmas and the New Year are upon us, I'm feeling renewed vigor toward getting back to working on some projects. This is a commission I did recently for a man who wanted an ink drawing from an old photo he provided. He wanted me to add the horse and cart and the old car, to give it more "movement" and eye appeal. I realized a few days into the project that I was feeling out of my element since I've been doing nothing but oil paintings in recent years. So I had to satisfy my curiosity and try it as a black and white painting too (he wanted black and white). I used acrylic paints as he was hoping to have it in time for Christmas. Which do you prefer?

I hope this finds you well. I think of you often, and thank you for following me here. Have a wonderful Christmas! God Bless You!

Eaton Exhibit Opens

I'm pleased to announce the opening of an exhibit of some of my works (and Chuck's!) at the Spies Public Library in Menominee, MI. The exhibit, located in the lower meeting room of the library, opened one week after the unveiling and dedication of my portrait of U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak. The library is a beautiful building. Its older section is filled with rich woodwork and stained glass, while the newer addition's huge windows overlook the waters of Green Bay. You are invited to meet the artists at a reception on Thursday, November 19 from 5:30-7:00pm. The exhibit will be in place through mid-December.

U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak

I am still reeling from the exhiliration of last night's unveiling of my portrait of U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak at the Spies Public Library in Menominee, MI. The Congressman was very gracious and complimentary. I'm honored to have his portrait permanently displayed in this public place, which is located in his District. Here are a few photos from the event. My brother and his penguin family made a surprise visit while trick-or-treating!

You Are Invited

You are invited to the unveiling and dedication of my portrait of U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak. Saturday, Oct. 31, Spies Public Library, Menominee, MI - 5:30-7:00pm. Congressman Stupak is from my district. The painting was purchased by a group of philanthropists (through the support of a friend) who wanted to have it permanently installed in the local library. I am truly honored!

The Crown (with detail)

This painting has been a work in progress. It originated from a smaller study I did called Crowning Glory that was painted from the same older model. I really like the original study, and wanted to expand on it in a larger painting. The actual size of this painting is 24 x 24. I love the sweet expressions on these models' faces, and the memories that this scene invokes. I used to love to make crowns of flowers and play princess when I was young, but not everyone did. I think the close-up detail inset shows the mixed emotion on the younger model's face. What is she thinking?

The Flower Girl

My posts have come less frequently lately. I attribute it to personal priorities and a newly found focus on perfection in my work. August and September were also very hard on me this year, with asthma meds making me too woozy to paint. I think I went from one extreme (daily paintings) to another (slow, deliberate brush strokes). I'm feeling good about the quality of this piece. I'm working more "in the shadows" to really make the subject the focal point. I have several in the works at the moment and will continue to post them as I can. Thank you for visiting!

Last Semblance of Summer

The end of summer is here, and it's a bittersweet time for those of us in the beautiful northwoods. The trees are are beginning to turn beautiful colors, which creates an artist's paradise, but soon the bleak monotone days of winter will be upon us. For many who are avid outdoorspersons, the winter is not a time to stay indoors, but to frolick in the beautiful ice and snow. I'm looking forward to the opportunities to try new works!

Mark Your Calendar

I delivered my two entries to the Michigan Portrait Exhibition at Hillsdale College last weekend. My accepted work includes a portrait of U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak and a painting called The Douglas Women. The Sage Gallery is a lovely venue, and I'm so excited to be a part of this prestigious event. The Exhibition will be on display from September 12 to October 3, with an opening reception from 2-5pm on Saturday, September 12. You are cordially invited to attend!

Plein Air Painting Fun

My husband had one of his rare afternoons off yesterday, so I coerced him into going out and doing some plein air painting. The day was absolutely magnificent! High 70s, light breeze, patchy clouds... gorgeous! My painting does not do it justice. We were facing each other as we painted opposite directions on the Menominee River. I think his painting is much brighter than mine. I'm guessing it has something to do with the fact that the sun was shining directly on my canvas, so my work appeared brighter to me in the process of painting it. I love the depth and airiness he achieved. I love painting en plein air!

And as the sun slowly set in the west...

... their shadows melded as one, and they lived happily ever after. I'm a "wannabe" novelist, I guess. Actually, someone recently brought to my attention that every painting should tell a story. My paintings all tell a story, but I haven't given it strong consideration like I've begun doing recently. The process makes me think harder about what I'm "composing." I'm enjoying it!

Evening Stroll at the Lighthouse, Oil, 11x14

The Red Farm

After taking some time out to attend to family and business issues, it's time to get back on that horse and ride! I thought this would be a good painting to start with... This "red farm" is not too far from where I live. I've enjoyed bicycle rides, long walks and drives past this farm, but only recently did it catch my attention as a thing of beauty.

The Red Farm, Framed Oil Painting, 11x14

A Perfect Pair

This was painted using flat brushes, rather than the filberts (rounded) that I normally use. The result of this effort is a different texture than I would achieve with a rounded brush. I like the still life look of this little gem. It pairs well with my earlier painting done on Day 30 of my Personal Challenge. I'm preparing to show at Artarama in Eagle River, WI on July 18. I hope to see you there!

Simple Pleasures

I started this painting on a rectangular board and was very pleased as it progressed. I considered adding more to the background, but I think it would take away from the simple beauty of this image. Now that it's dry, I've decided to cut the board into a perfect square to draw the eye to the center of the painting. I wouldn't try to attempt that if it had been painted on a canvas, although I've known some artists who have done it. The model I worked with was just wonderful! I look forward to painting her again.

Three Graces

This is another in the dance series that I'm working feverishly on. I wasn't sure about the composition of this one, but there's something gentle and serene about it that I really like.

Flower Girl

This was a quick study on a 9x12 canvas. Another attempt at speed painting. I'm finding that the looser I paint, the easier it comes, and the more I like it. This was painted from a photo taken of one of the models at my workshop with Daniel Gerhartz. I just love his work!

Sailing

This one surprised me. I haven't done a sailboat yet, but I really like the way this one turned out. Of course, I had to make sure there were people on the boat!

A Gentle Touch

Here is another "Doctor and Patient" painting. You may recall my previous "Doctor and Patient" painting (see older post), which mirrors the pose in this one. My friends at Northern Lights Clinic were kind enough to allow me to use photos I had taken of them for these works. I can see the changes in my technique since the first one was finished. I've been painting a lot, and trying to "loosen up." What do you think?

Three Crosses

This was painted from a photograph taken by a friend on one of her recent travels. I thought it was an interesting picture, and a bit different than my usual work. Do you know where this photo was taken?

In honor of moms and grammas everywhere...

This one is titled "Self Portrait with Grandchild." It's another 5x7 quick study. Isn't he adorable? Happy Mother's Day to all you moms and grammas of the world!

Quick Kitty

This is Spooky. He's a very friendly stray who has adopted us. I decided to do a quick study of him on a 5x7 canvas. Sometimes I think I work too hard at trying to create a likeness, so every so often I do a "speed painting" and try to learn something from it. I'm not sure what I learned here, but it was fun to do!

Who was that masked dancer?

This reflection was an interesting study that was painted from another photo taken at Ms. Bunting's First Street Academy. If I didn't know better, I'd say her legs in the "mirror" were not the exact reflection of the actual dancer, but they are. I'm learning so much from these figurative works.

Joyful Little Dancers

This group of tiny dancers at Susan Bunting's First Street Academy was just too adorable... How can you not feel their joy?