Paint becoming the form is a goal I've been striving for, for several years now. finding my own unique voice to do that with is key. Each painting I do lately feels closer and closer to realizing this goal, so I'm just on cloud 9!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Fireworks
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Monday, May 18, 2009
Multitasking
I've posted a good bit more on my inspiration behind these paintings HERE for anyone interested. I would love to hear how you get inspired, and what inspires you all out there.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Art Chicago - Next 2009
Yesterday Chicago's annual art event, Art Chicago - Next, came to a close. This event is an opportunity to see galleries from all over the world, and the artists they represent. It is the highlight of my spring to see so much artwork all under one roof, and one of the reasons I'm grateful to live here.
This year was my favorite of the three I've attended, and I have posted a video of my visit to the show on my new blog. Click Here, and enjoy!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Melt
Is it wrong to say how much one loves their own painting? I can not tell you how much I love this painting and all the new possibilities I'm thinking about right now!I've posted in progress shots on MY NEW BLOG AND WEBSITE. I'm considering eliminating my original website for this new one, I like that I have almost complete flexibility with design aspects. I'm not a trained graphic designer, so feedback would be welcome :)
This painting is 10x10, if you are interested please email for info.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Dandelion
Available
What we have here is still a washed out image of the actual finished painting, but I simply had to move on. No matter what I tried, the online image and the jpeg wouldn't match up. I realize I'm making a mountain out of a mole hill, but this painting for me is all about color, so the color being less vibrant, turned into a big deal. Especially since I haven't experienced this issue until now. However, that big deal sent loads of excellent advice my way, and I want to thank everyone so much for all the tips you've shared and knowledge you've passed along.
Another excellent benefit, was the investigation into loading my jpegs onto other online hosting sites, just to see what the results would be. Turns out, I played around enough with this, that I figured out how to make a brand new blog myself, which ended up being pretty easy. My computer comes with software that allows me to design a website and blog to basically look like anything I want. Right now I'm just giving it a test run, and I would love to hear some feedback. So please check out my new blog ON MY EASEL TODAY and let me know what you think, as far as I can tell the color seems to be spot on.
Also, this painting is 10x10 inches, and is available for $600 plus shipping. Please email me if you are interested.
Again thanks to everyone, you have helped me tremendously with all your feedback. This totally illustrates the enormous resource we have in online communities.
Passion for Painting
Thank you to Sara Winters, who tagged me for the Passion for Painting award. I am honored! Sara's paintings are flooded with light and clear color, and her execution of reflected water with unblended brushwork seems fresh and new. Take the time to enlarge her paintings to see the abstract quality to work.
Here is how it goes, name 7 things I love, and 7 other artists whose blogs I follow.
Seven things I love:
1. God
2. My husband, Clay
3. Family
4. Friends
5. Paint
6. Sunshine, fresh air, 80 degree flip-flop wearing day.
7. Snow, 25 degree boots/scarf/hat wearing day.
I follow many many blogs, which makes this difficult. I decided to name blogs that contain discussion, advice, observations, and information, that help us grow as artists. From step by step PhotoShop advice, to gallery solicitation advice, to serious discussions about being an artist. Hope you enjoy.
2. Larry Groff
3. Edgar
5. R. Garriott
7. Neoteric Art
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Faux Chocolate
I've been trying for two days to upload my finished painting "Dandelion" and for some reason the painting's colors are very washed out compared to the actual jpeg. Has anyone else experienced this problem? I noticed this with my last post, but since the painting was in process, instead of completed, I didn't worry much about it. I am using a Mac with iPhoto to crop the image and making zero adjustments to color. The jpeg is vibrant, but when I load it into blogger, it loses a lot of color??? If anyone knows what I might be doing wrong, please let me know. The painting above posted very close to the original jpeg, I can't figure it out???While I was trying to figure it all out, I luckily decided to paint this monochromatic painting. I talk a lot about color, but not much about value, which is a key component in inspiring my paintings. I have always loved monochrome paintings and value studies, and don't know why I don't do them more often. They seem quiet and still to me. The actual bow is red, but I used Burnt Umber, Payne's Grey, and white, to show the form using only value.
Besides the actual meaning I find behind these bows and presents, they offer a kaleidoscope of color and strong value shifts within one single object, and I seem to never tire of their possibilities.
This painting is a 5x7, oil on canvas. If interested, please send me an email. The 'available' link at the top of the post will take you directly to my website's contact page.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Painting in Progress
One part seeing, one part feeling, hard to choose. Both are magic.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Painting in Progress plus Palette
That's my color scheme theory in a nut shell.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Drawing and homemade view finder tool
Since this is more or less repeating my last post, I thought I would show my little homemade view finder tool.


I made this years ago, as you can see by the smudges and dried paint, from a 5x7 gray mat you can purchase for framing photos. I cut the corners, then marked off the interior edges, starting at the corners going out, every half inch. I can view my set up through my adjustable opening and determine exactly what size canvas will make the best composition. Once that is decided, I paperclip the corners and continue to use it to help locate the major shapes during the drawing phase. The mid-toned gray can be used to judge values as well.
Now back to fun with flower!
Friday, March 6, 2009
Dandelion
Once again, rejoicing over the weather is causing me to throw caution to the wind, and celebrate by posting this very merry latest idea. It is one that has been brewing and stewing in my brain for some time now. I had planned to wait until the actual painting was completed before going full steam ahead, but I just couldn't wait, not on a day like today. For tomorrow is sure to be cold again, but today is today!
STEP ONE: photo of wire armature
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Danae
One of the reasons I'm interested in purses, is similar to my attraction to my presents. Both are elaborate, decorative surfaces that disguise/hide interior content. The main difference for me is that we have a pretty good guess as to what might be inside a purse. Purses are so personal too. They reveal our personality, whether we like it or not. Funny thing is, I myself rarely carry an actual purse. Maybe I'm just not ready to commit to a personality yet, or maybe I haven't found a purse that can adequately hold my personality. I think I'm going with that last one.
Anyway, I'm actually pretty certain that purses are not going to be a totally new direction, (I am actually working on two bow themed paintings right now) but I do think they will continue to make guest appearances. They give me the opportunity to ponder an intriguing question..... what shiny fun self do we show the world, and is it the same self as our inner private one?
Thanks as always for tolerating my musings.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Take a Listen
Everyone make a cup of coffee or tea, sit down and take a listen to the podcast on Bad @ Sports Great honest advice from Edward Winkleman about how artists might best approach galleries plus other nuggets of wisdom.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Amy
Sold
This morning I headed out for my cold winter jog. It's now my third winter here and I actually had high hopes that this day might bring my first snow jog of this winter. Towards the end, as I made my way back home, I started thinking about how lucky I was for this change in my life. Suddenly, on cue, the snow came falling down in those big fluffy swirling magical flakes. I was reminded on my snowy lakefront path, that the impossibility of the unknown can actually be an unknown joy, just waiting to be found.
So, being inspired with positive thoughts of change, I decided this would be the perfect day to show the newest change in my subject matter. "Amy" is actually the very first of this series, and although I have completed several now, she's the one that seemed perfectly dressed for today's silvery, snowy day.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Riptide
Sold
What started as a wave to ride back into shore, turned into a struggle with a current. Every stroke in my direction taking me further out. A reminder that I don't always know the path I'm suppose to take, but also a reminder that I've been in currents before, and if I can just hold my breath I'll eventually find land.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Swim
Sold


I am fortunate enough to paint full time, and even though my blog doesn’t show any evidence to back up this claim as of late, I do paint every day… I’m sort of a workaholic. So what have I been painting during this past month since my last post???
Well that is a long story, and it will need to be spread out into several posts. But before I back track, I wanted to post this latest painting. In a way, this painting represents for me where I’ve been and why I’m back. Let’s just say, I’ve been out exploring new ideas and subject matter, testing new water so to speak. One part of me wants to explain why now, why I would think about a departure from painting presents, the other part of me thinks it really doesn’t matter. What does matter is that I continue to pursue whatever it is that will make me a better person and a better painter. Bottom line, I’ve enjoyed my time out into these uncharted waters and I’ve made some great discoveries....one of which is that I needed to swim back to shore, my shore.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Exciting News
Two exciting pieces of news I would like to share with everyone. First, I was interviewed by a new website called Neoteric Art. The site was started by a friend of mine and I am very flattered that he asked me to participate. He asked some tough questions and they were fun to answer. Just follow the link over to check it out.
Second, the dandelions are here! Serendipitous moments happen to me all the time! I have long awaited these beauties and I can't believe they decided to pop up today. Weed to most, but to me it is the first glorious color after the long winter. Right now they are just dots here and there along the lake front, but soon it will be a sea of gold!
Second, the dandelions are here! Serendipitous moments happen to me all the time! I have long awaited these beauties and I can't believe they decided to pop up today. Weed to most, but to me it is the first glorious color after the long winter. Right now they are just dots here and there along the lake front, but soon it will be a sea of gold!
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Dark Comedy
SOLD
First I'd like to thank everyone who has been so helpful with suggestions/comments and emails concerning my hard drive. I have very much missed keeping up with all the blogs I visit daily. I hope to get totally caught up with everyone and everything soon. Thank you all so much!
While struggling with this painting and with my lingering winter, I happened to be reading a book about the history of color in art, and one chapter dealt with black. The most interesting line suddenly leapt off the page. It was that Matisse made the observation that Manet and Renoir turned “black into a light.” Suddenly it all made sense to me, not in the way Matisse had intended, but it was just the thing I needed to hear. I immediately saw light everywhere, in my bow and in my winter. I was able to finish up this painting with the thought that I already knew, but just needed to be reminded of. That thought is not just that there will always be light in the dark, but that by trying to understand my dark I can turn it into a light. And sure enough, as I’ve finally finished up this painting, the first signs of spring have come.
First I'd like to thank everyone who has been so helpful with suggestions/comments and emails concerning my hard drive. I have very much missed keeping up with all the blogs I visit daily. I hope to get totally caught up with everyone and everything soon. Thank you all so much!While struggling with this painting and with my lingering winter, I happened to be reading a book about the history of color in art, and one chapter dealt with black. The most interesting line suddenly leapt off the page. It was that Matisse made the observation that Manet and Renoir turned “black into a light.” Suddenly it all made sense to me, not in the way Matisse had intended, but it was just the thing I needed to hear. I immediately saw light everywhere, in my bow and in my winter. I was able to finish up this painting with the thought that I already knew, but just needed to be reminded of. That thought is not just that there will always be light in the dark, but that by trying to understand my dark I can turn it into a light. And sure enough, as I’ve finally finished up this painting, the first signs of spring have come.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
Five
SOLD
One more framed piece to post. Spotlight on Art opens this Tuesday night at 6:30pm for anyone in the Atlanta area. This is a large art event with many artists participating, which makes this show a fantastic place to see a diverse collection of art work all under one roof.
One more framed piece to post. Spotlight on Art opens this Tuesday night at 6:30pm for anyone in the Atlanta area. This is a large art event with many artists participating, which makes this show a fantastic place to see a diverse collection of art work all under one roof.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Morning Glory
SOLD
This painting I finished just a couple of months ago back when the Morning Glories were in full bloom down by the lakefront. Ahhh....the sun and flowers! Soon, I keep telling myself, soon.
This painting called for a totally different style of frame because I wanted the edge of the canvas, which is painted an orange similar to the present's cast shadow, to be seen. I love using these 'floater' style frames just for this purpose.
This painting I finished just a couple of months ago back when the Morning Glories were in full bloom down by the lakefront. Ahhh....the sun and flowers! Soon, I keep telling myself, soon.This painting called for a totally different style of frame because I wanted the edge of the canvas, which is painted an orange similar to the present's cast shadow, to be seen. I love using these 'floater' style frames just for this purpose.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Ginkgo
SOLD
"Ginkgo" was previously posted, but I want to re-post it, showing it in its frame, which finally came in. This painting is slightly larger than most of my blog paintings of late, and I knew right from the first brushstroke that I wanted it in a heavy thick frame. The decision to frame, or in some cases not to frame, is always part of my overall visual idea.
This painting will be packed up and sent to Atlanta in a couple of days for a show I am participating in, Spotlight on Art , which is an annual fundraiser. I will actually be very sad to send this painting; it has been a very bright sunny spot of color in my studio during this month of overcast Chicago days.
"Ginkgo" was previously posted, but I want to re-post it, showing it in its frame, which finally came in. This painting is slightly larger than most of my blog paintings of late, and I knew right from the first brushstroke that I wanted it in a heavy thick frame. The decision to frame, or in some cases not to frame, is always part of my overall visual idea.This painting will be packed up and sent to Atlanta in a couple of days for a show I am participating in, Spotlight on Art , which is an annual fundraiser. I will actually be very sad to send this painting; it has been a very bright sunny spot of color in my studio during this month of overcast Chicago days.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Icicles
SOLD
I was drawn to the cool silver color of this satin bow because of the snow and ice in my world right now and probably here until June! The ice and snow is amazingly beautiful and I wonder if I will ever get tired of seeing it. This is only my second winter here in Chicago and being a newbe every falling snowflake, glazing of ice and even the slush is wonderfully gorgeous! It is definitely worth getting a little cold to be lucky enough to see these beautiful sights.
The thick silver paint dripping over the edges of the warmer cream tissue, what else could it be but the draping of icicles after a great winter storm? So, If you are lucky enough to have a winter, bundle up and go take in the show!
I was drawn to the cool silver color of this satin bow because of the snow and ice in my world right now and probably here until June! The ice and snow is amazingly beautiful and I wonder if I will ever get tired of seeing it. This is only my second winter here in Chicago and being a newbe every falling snowflake, glazing of ice and even the slush is wonderfully gorgeous! It is definitely worth getting a little cold to be lucky enough to see these beautiful sights.The thick silver paint dripping over the edges of the warmer cream tissue, what else could it be but the draping of icicles after a great winter storm? So, If you are lucky enough to have a winter, bundle up and go take in the show!
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Ginkgo
Well I could write pages on this painting and the experience, but I will try and keep it short. Suffice it to say, I feel like I have finally painted the painting I've been trying to paint for years, and I think it is all due to my little experiment with the abstract paintings. I strongly encourage everyone, not just painters, to try something out of your comfort zone, see what insight it may bring to you. I think our subconscious leads us toward things we need to experience, who cares if we look crazy! Who cares if we don't do it well! Just try it, whatever it is, as long as it is legal!!This painting is titled Ginkgo. I hope you are lucky enough to have a Ginkgo tree nearby, they are the last trees to change into their Fall outfits. Here in Chicago Fall is breathtaking, full of oranges, reds, rusts, and ochres. Then, as if for the final curtain call before Winter the Ginkgos, whose branches extend way past their trunks in crazy right angles, explode into gold. This year it was too brief a show, just like a shooting star! But never fear, this winter storm today has lead me straight to a fabulous silver satin ribbon.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Royal Party
Yeah! I am so glad to have this painting finished, not that I haven't loved every minute of it, mind you, I am just a wee bit nervous about having enough paintings ready for the December show. I wish I could post the entire group as I will hang it, which is with about an inch of space in between each canvas. I may have to break down and buy Photoshop if I am going to continue these split paintings, unless someone out there has an idea of how to fix this on going problem of mine. Anyone????Thanks to everyone who has encouraged me along the way with this piece too!
Labels:
bows,
gift,
painting demo,
pink check,
presents,
purple,
red,
royal,
three 12 x 12 oil on gallery wrap canvas,
triptych
Monday, October 15, 2007
"Heartache"
SOLD
Amazingly this is the first true red bow I have ever painted. This true red was inspired by seeing the website of Duane Keiser who has fantastic Utube video demonstrations, one of which is a gorgeous candy apple. I just could not wait to dive into red after seeing it!
My heart literally beats faster when I paint red, how about yours?
Amazingly this is the first true red bow I have ever painted. This true red was inspired by seeing the website of Duane Keiser who has fantastic Utube video demonstrations, one of which is a gorgeous candy apple. I just could not wait to dive into red after seeing it!My heart literally beats faster when I paint red, how about yours?
Friday, October 5, 2007
"Nesting"
Sold
I am sorry I could not get the picture straighter. My photography skills have been terrible the last several posts. Must be all the over consumption of caffeine! I will save this little one for the show as well, and hopefully get a better picture of it before it makes its way to Atlanta. I think this painting will be best seen in person no matter how good of a photo I get anyway. I do love how it turned out and feel it captures the 'hushed' mood I've been in as of late.
I am sorry I could not get the picture straighter. My photography skills have been terrible the last several posts. Must be all the over consumption of caffeine! I will save this little one for the show as well, and hopefully get a better picture of it before it makes its way to Atlanta. I think this painting will be best seen in person no matter how good of a photo I get anyway. I do love how it turned out and feel it captures the 'hushed' mood I've been in as of late.
Labels:
5 x 7 Oil on Canvas,
bird's egg,
bow,
gift,
green,
presents
Monday, October 1, 2007
Morning Glory
I don't know that much about plants and flowers, but when I lived in Atlanta I did try my best to grow things. I loved growing both Morning Glories and Day Lilies. Both have blooms that only open for one day and by late afternoon they have already started to fade. This time of year the Morning Glories start to produce their seeds in little papery round pods that are fun to gather up and toss about the yard for next spring. It is a flower where time is counted, spent and is waiting. As far as the painting goes, I loved painting the tissue just as much as the velvety bow. I enjoyed layering all the rainbow of colors that actually make up this "cream" tissue. What fun!
I am starting to prepare for an up-coming show in Atlanta which will be taking place December through February. This painting will be available through this show and I will keep everyone posted as the time draws near.
Labels:
10 x 10 oil on canvas,
bow,
gift,
plum velvet,
presents,
purple
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Thumbnail sketches

I've been starting these demo posts by showing the set up and beginning oil sketch, but I realized that is leaving out a bunch of steps. First step for me is inspiration, and I see it everywhere. I have ten paintings being painted in my head all the time, so I keep a personal journal where I keep these thoughts. Then suddenly one idea, thought, color, feeling singles itself out and wham.... purple velvet. Next are these tiny thumbnail sketches where I play around with composition and see which format will best suit what I'm trying to say. The top two sketches I envisioned as another split painting. I like the middle idea, and may come back to it, but have settled on the bottom right hand corner composition. Hope this hasn't been too boring.
Labels:
bows,
plum velvet,
presents,
purple,
thumbnail sketches
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