"A Cuple of Cuties"

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Continuing a bit further with my earlier posting on words--couldn't resist twisting the couple word into cuple to make it fit my subject (get it?? cuple as in cup as in mug...) Gosh, I am sorry. This is what comes of staying in the studio talking to yourself all day. It seems almost brilliant 'til you see it in cold hard print....

Back to the painting itself--love this cup. Addicted to the blue. Using some of the new radiant colors I learned of from one of my favorite artists, Karin Jurick. Something about blues with some red that just hits the happy-o-meter for me.

And a note to the friends and artists in Lexington, KY area---I just discovered a wonderful wholesale flower shop called, appropriately, 'The Cutting Garden". Mellow Ellis, the owner, carries beautiful flowers with lots of personality (as in fresher and more unique varieties) at wholesale prices. You can just walk in the cooler and pick out what you want--a single stem or a whole dozen plus (which I just did---okay, I had to do it, I am working on a still life that I needed fresh roses for---sometimes it is so tough being an artiste'.)

Well, over and out for now. Must get back to the studio. Show date looms large on the horizon. Feeling a bit like Howard Hughes these days.....except I did trim my fingernails last week (just in case you were wondering...)

"Mugged"

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It's no wonder the English language is said to be one of the most difficult to learn. Take the word mug for instance. According to the dictionary it can be a cup to hold something or it can be a human face. And if you ad an "ed" to it, it can become, of all things..... an act of violence! Now call me crazy, but I don't quite follow the dots on that one. Which leads me to quit, quiet, and quite--a whole (hole) other dilemma ......suddenly painting seems like child's play.

By the way, I chose to ad another meaning to the mug word. I figure if things can be bottled, wrapped, and sacked---then this rose can be mugged.

Too much heavy thinking--must stop before I get a headache.

Also, have been reading some great books lately. Picked up a new term I love. Ever have those days that you just avoid everything and feel guilty for doing so?? Yep, there's a word for it. Multi-shirking. As opposed to those great days of multi-tasking and feeling so in control. It's all about balance. Somedays I am a multi-tasker and other days....a multi-shirker. I at least feel better now that I know the name for it.......

"Mission Squared"

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I love the mission (as in San Juan when the swallows come back to Capistrano mission) anyway you can paint it. Like with Forrest Gump and the shrimp (you can barbecue it, boil it, bake it, saute it.....) the mission has lots of ways you can paint it. It is a place that has been painted for many years (some beautiful paintings by early California artists) by many artists (ad me to that bunch). It has a peace it exudes even when packed with people. And the bougainvillea is legendary. So of the many ways to paint it, you can now ad to that list.....6 x 6 and squared.

"Cheap Thrills"

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Believe your eyes. Tulips in November....! For a mere three bucks, I have a bit of spring while the leaves are piling up outside my door. Who would of thunk it. The vase is an old favorite of mine, purchased many years ago at a thrift shop. Funny how life changes, moves forward-- we shed so many things. Homes, jobs, friends of convenience, outfits with huge shoulder pads (need I remind you of the 80's?). I look around and am sometimes surprised at the things that have clung to me through my many moves (15 at last count), two marriages (hanging tight, now 20 years to my guy) and spring cleanings. The vase falls into the odd assortment of things that have survived my living. And will, no doubt, outlive me.

To turn up once again in a thrift store! Maybe by then the big shoulder pads will be back in style. No one should have to live through that era twice.

Well, I am very excited to tell you --- I am now a member of the Daily Painters Group. It was one of my goals when I set out on my blogging journey so long ago (okay, it's actually only been 10 months). I got the news I was juried in just this week. For those of you new to the daily paintings/blogging concept, it is a group of painters who paint daily ( or at the very least, several times a week) and post them on their blog. This group shows all the works done on a given day. I have their site posted in the right column on this blog--just above my favorite blog sites. Check it out when you have time--I think you will enjoy the diversity and seeing what so many fellow artists are up to on any given day.

And that's all folks--I gotta get back into the studio. I just know the oil paints are drying on my palette as I type. Oil paints have their own agenda. When on your palette, they will dry in minutes. Need a painting to be dry so you can frame it for a show? We're talking months on the dry time. What is that about????

"Last Workshop for 2009...It's Been a Great Year!!"

The Maysville workshop is over. I have to say, it was a great note to end 2009 on. I have added so many new wonderful people this year to my life and all because of art! Thank you to each of you (Barbara, Sarah, Betsy, Carolyn, Claudia, Dana, Marilyn, Donna, Ann, Vicki, Joan, Patti, and Pati) for making this workshop such a wonderful experience!

My number one reason for teaching is the desire to help others to allow themselves to (re)discover the joy to be had in simply allowing yourself to create. To leave all the angst, the should haves, the critical voices, outside the door and immerse yourself into the creative flow. I truly believe that is when your real work, your real gift, emerges. When you have joy in the doing, you do it more often. And the "secret" to making incredible art that moves people comes through the making of art. ... Lots of it.

So we did our exercise of moving from easel to easel, carrying only our paintbrushes, to work on the "next" painting (copying Leslie Saeta's wonderful sailboat paintings). Our intention was to practice the art of detachment, to be able to move on in our own studios when doing our painting, detaching from the outcome and being present in the moment. A reminder that we can learn the same lessons when we work on a small canvas and learn it in less time. And training our eye to assess what our painting needs, to go for the big shapes and big designs first. Lots of things to learn in 45 minutes on a 6 x6 panel.

Artists at work (play)!
Betsy is living proof that you can't keep a good artist down....!

Just a note on some other things. I will be demoing in Morehead, KY next Saturday, November 14 at the Carl Perkins Center. I will be posting the time of day later this week. Also, I am having a joint show with Cate Wagoner at Southern Ohio University in Proctorville, OH. It will be opening December 7 and will hang until the last week of January.

Other than that, I will be keeping my nose to the palette (grindstone) getting ready for my February show at Gallery B in Lexington, KY. Somewhere I plan to squeeze in those holidays....what were they??? Oh yeah, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

"On the Banks of the Ohio... the Maysville, KY Workshop!"

It's going to sound a bit corny, but I actually got a little sad tonight realizing this workshop was coming to a close. Tomorrow is the last day. So many precious people that I have had the privilege of spending some time with, painting, laughing, teasing, and getting a peek into their personalities. There are so many special people on this planet and I feel like they are the ones that show up for my workshops! This is the last group for 2009 and they, like all of the others this year, have enriched my life, made me think, helped me grow. It's interesting 'cause I always work hard to give my best, but the truth is, the goodness from the people I am around comes rushing back so fast it could knock you down! Wow, wow, and wow!!

I hope to post photos of their work tomorrow--my computer is misbehaving this evening. These girls have worked hard and produced a lot of great pieces---I swear, they said they did lunch today, but when I came back from the break, they were in the same spots painting.....I am not really sure they stopped to eat! This is a motivated, dedicated bunch of artists!

"October's Painting Giveaway"

I love finding out who has won one of my paintings each month. It's a little perk of doing what I do. It's nice to know you can do something that is so simple and yet is going to make some one's day a little special. The above piece, "Lilly Ann", will be heading out to her new home with blog follower, Catherine Jeffrey. Catherine, I truly hope you enjoy your newest little art piece and that it brings its own special sunshine to your place!

Each one of you who take the time to read and view my art---it is so amazing for it creates such a sense of family--- it is a way of putting our heads and hearts together on art and life. Along with the comments here on the blog, I receive so many nice emails--it is just interesting because it truly is like opening a little bit of love in the mail. My heart is brimming over so I always want to remember to say a very, very sincere thanks to each of you. You are special and your contributions enrich my life and my art. Thank you--thank you!

*Note to Catherine: Email me with your address so I can send Lilly Ann on her way!

"99 Cents"

Late night ride in the country snacking on colby cheese, crackers and hot dill pickle chips. Cold soda to to wet it down. An Esperance rose for 99 cents and a beautiful 80 degree fall day. Incredible beauty and peace served up so nonchalant by life. To be mindful of where we find joy...now that is truly art.

"The Cow Came Back"

This little cow always gives me fits......why I continue to be lured back in , yet again, is a mystery that only the cow knows. Her lips are sealed I'm afraid--always poised as if ready to speak---she never let out one single moo while I was working. And man, she can hold a pose forever. She's the perfect model. That must be the reason I pulled her out of retirement....that and she works cheap. I swear, I think she gained weight since the last time I painted her. Must be all that dairy. Think maybe she's lactose intolerant???

I have been busy this morning getting all my newsletters archived with content and easily accessible for anybody who wants to read one they might have missed or follow up on any of my brilliant ideas in them. Here's the link to check out my handiwork! (I use Constant Contact to do my newsletters with--if you are interested in doing your own newsletter, contact me before you sign in and we both can get a $30 credit on our accounts....sweet!)

"Slim Pickin's"

It has been a day of slim pickin's painting wise--both in flowers hanging on from summer and a dickens of a day at the easel. I am not happy with this painting but thought I would post it anyway. Two reasons come to mind. One so you would know I am working....the other because even though I know you think I am perfect....even I, the great Dreamdino, have crappy easel days........ somedays I am thankful to close the studio door and turn out the light.

...thank God there is chocolate in the house. All I have to do is walk downstairs and eat it. I am pretty sure I can handle that......

"The Pansy Polka"

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I have a big fat mug. No, not my face....a coffee mug. Which has big fat polka dots and a big fat handle. And it's in my almost favorite color--blue-- which I pushed a bit further into my favorite color-- periwinkle . Letting the mug be home to the pansies for a bit just makes me happy. It's one of the silly things of life. I have perfectly good, very sedate little vases for the pansies to hug up too, but the big fat mug has lots more personality and I guess that is why I chose it. Perfect is never nearly as interesting as big personality--be it people or big fat mugs. I feel a bit of kindred spirit with the mug.....

May you have a big, fat wonderful day fully of interesting mugs (people)!

"Lilly Ann"

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I have loved water lilies for a long time. Way before it was in vogue to have a water garden I was digging the hole myself, lining it with a kids pool liner and being pleased as punch when the little green frog showed up to sit on my lily pad.

I found Lilly Ann floating peacefully at the mission in California. And I felt she should have her own name. I mean, we are human beings, but you don't hear us saying, "Hey Human, over here." So I decided her name was Ann. Ann has lots of personality and has been known to make a smart remark or two---just ask the koi---they would know...!



Note: Any similarity between this Ann and another Ann I know is merely coincidence. The Ann I know is a perfect angel. And she did not pay me any $$$ to say that.

Yet.

"The Furry Greeter" SOLD

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This little guy is one vocal cat. When I stopped to photograph the flowers in Gretchen's front yard, he showed up and didn't stop meowing! And he wanted his head rubbed, so this was pretty much my one shot at getting him on the porch before he headed my direction!

It's a cold, rainy day here in Kentucky, so I painted sunshine in the form of black-eyed susans and one very furry greeter.....! I liked the repetition of the curves in the grapevine chair on the front porch down to the arched kitty's back and curly tale.

And I like cats. No point in me trying to justify why I painted this. I like cats. Did I tell you? I like cats. Hopefully Eddie won't go into a tail spin once again because I have painted "out of the family:...

"King of the Jungle" SOLD

Since Eddie has been in a bit of a snit since I painted "Undercover Angel", Carla's cat, I decided the only way to redeem myself was to paint him in all the splendor that is Eddie. I have a lot of ferns, ivy, and various vining growing green things on the back porch. Eddie positions himself carefully in amongst the palm fronds and I know he is pretending he is hanging out on a limb in South Africa.......I usually just pretend I don't see him. It never pays to make eye contact when he is in the zone. So without further ado----- heeeeeeere's Eddie!
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Don't forget to check out my latest art project "30 Days, 30 Paintings" . It's your chance to commission your own painting---an original by me with your favorite subject matter---now it just doesn't get any better than that!

"My Newest Art Aquisition!"

There were several reasons I had determined in my heart, long before Hedi arrived, that I wanted to add a piece of Hedi's work to my private collection---all of them equally important to me.

When I first studied with a her a few years back, it was the beginning of another break through in my thinking and approach to art. It was twofold. One was her outlook on the making of art and the other was her use of transparent oils as an initial lay in. Both things opened wide doors for me in my own painting, things which I am currently using in my process.

Hedi is a successful artist having taught at the prestigious Scottsdale School of Art for approximately 15 years...and her workshops are always sold out. She is represented in major galleries from Santa Fe to Martha's Vineyard. And she is a woman artist---an encouraging sign in a field often dominated by the male species (now, don't get irate on me, I have a very successful brother who's an artist and many male artist friends---it is just very good to see and study with a woman who is in those ranks as well!)

And the other reason, just as important, is I now have a "Hedi" lesson to hang on my wall to remind me of....."Soften the edges, keep your focal point the focal point, gray things as they move to the outside edges of your work and away from the focal point, etc. etc"

So maybe the last and perhaps I do have a most important reason after all, is to say, "Thank you Hedi for having the courage to be yourself, paint your heart, and share your gift."

Yeah, it's a Hedi original!

It was a week well spent with many special moments, laughter and funny stories shared, knowledge gained and paintings painted.

Embracing life is a wonderful thing. Go out into this day and say YES to one thing that challenges you, scares you, or makes you squirm a bit. Saying yes to life has its own special brand of power that comes with it.

BIG HUG from me to you.

"Day 4 of Hedi Moran Workshop"

Well, you know the routine by now, the beginning and then the almost done phase. I seem to not be able to quite finish it in one day---I find myself getting a bit tired, which leads to wanting a brownie, which leads to sitting down, which leads to ....."think I'll head home and finish this in the morning.."



This was also toned with a really intense orange. Didn't plan it that way, but I am running low on canvas I have been painting so much---so I was happy to find this one loitering behind a basket in my studio and it actually adds a nice glow to the roses.

Hedi let me use her famous "Hedi" brush, a 99cent brush made famous by her use of it. I have concluded Hedi could take a 2 x 4 and paint a painting. Every brush becomes magic in her hands! The beautifully rendered rose on the lower left is a "Hedi" rose--the others are still under construction by moi!

Tomorrow is the last day. This week has flown by--I think everyone is a little tired (they aren't called workshops for nothin'!) but feeling good because we have grown and learned things to add to our understanding of how to make beautiful art.

P.S. Don't you just LOVE silver and its reflections!

"Day 3 of Hedi Moran Workshop" SOLD

Eric Iverson shared some of his fall bounty today by bringing in dahlias and white pumpkins (I don't think I realized there were white pumpkins 'til today..) I had intended to paint roses, but this was like a giant magnet---just too hard to resist! So here is my beginning part..

And here is my almost ending---final tweaking will come tomorrow morning.

And I purchased a Hedi original today! It was the demo she did this morning and it is a beauty. That's one of the many things about taking workshops that is so great---as a student, you get great prices on a painting that can sell for lots more once it is placed in the hands of that artist's gallery. Look tomorrow for my newest art acquisition.....!

"Day 2 of Hedi Moran Workshop"

My network was down last night, so I couldn't post 'til this morning--sorry for the delay! Hedi did a fantastic demo yesterday and then we all took the plunge into our own work---below is the beginning stages of mine (can you believe I remembered to stop midway and photograph it?!) As you can see, it was done on a canvas with an orange ground.

"Van Gogh Bouquet"

And it here it is, nearly done. It is good to work from a set up that someone else has done. New objects, new flowers, new colors---yummy! Gotta fly for now or I will be late for today's class--don't intend to miss a thing......!

"Day 1 of Hedi Moran Workshop"

"Endless Summer"

Today was the first day of the Hedi Moran workshop in Lexington, KY. Above is the yet to be resolved result of my afternoon of painting. Looking at it here, in the photo, I can see some things to be addressed in the morning-----a good night's sleep always improves the objectivity! I am having so much fun--its great to be a kid (student) again and we are already into full swing of having fun......we started the morning with giving Hedi a standing ovation. She is well loved here, it's her 5th trip back to Lexington. Hedi is from Scottsdale, Arizona and is enjoying the reprieve in the temps--it was 108 degrees when she left and today was a beautiful, top ten day in Kentucky with temps in the high 60's! The drive in today was incredibly beautiful--mist and fog rising from verdant pastures dotted with thoroughbreds and flanked by stone fences......almost rivals my coastal drive down I-5 along the blue Pacific when I lived in San Diego...!
If you read my bio on my website you will see that Hedi (along with Kevin Macpherson and Wolf Kahn) is one of the artists who has impacted my work the most. She is a very skilled painter that leads by example of enjoying the process of painting. As she said today, each time she goes in to paint, that is what she is there for--to paint. Not to make a painting. She is exuberant with her approach and it shows in her finished pieces. I so appreciate Hedi and other artists like her, that are willing to share their knowledge and love of painting . Building on what has come before us, allows us to grow much more rapidly, without having to figure out everything through trial and error. Thank you Hedi!

"Randy's California Irises" SOLD AND SOLD

This is my third piece since I opened up my blog paintings for folks to commission their own. When Randy told me he'd like me to paint his favorite flower, the iris, I was delighted---for it is one of my favorites as well. Maybe, because like most spring flowers, we get to enjoy them for such a brief time we savour their beauty an extra measure.

Only one problem. I couldn't decide whether to do a close-up of the iris or a bunch of irises. So being the extravagant person that I am, I decided to do both......kind of like when I am shopping and can't decide which outfit to get......the obvious answer would be..... BOTH of them!

"Now dreama that was unfair of you...I had to scroll back and forth, back and forth. I even flipped a coin and decided not to take the result at face value. they are both beautiful in their different ways yet they have your signature richness of color.I picked the second one the one with the arches in the background "........Randy

It seemed fitting that the flowers have their roots in California soil, for that is where Randy is from although he is presently a Kentucky transplant! These "friends" I found blooming at the Mission San Juan Capistrano this past March (as you know by now, one of the places that is a veritable feast of all things lovely). Randy is an artist and friend as well---life just fits together so perfectly when we can open our eyes to see it....I like to think these irises planned their blooming just for me so I could capture them on canvas for Randy to enjoy a few months later.

Life is beautiful. Wake up and smell the irises.......

P.S. Randy decided he had to have them both---Go Randy!

"Somebody Just Got Lucky!"

The title of this painting ("One Step at a Time") came from the song buzzing in my head and on my ipod at the time it was being painted. The little cobalt blue glass caught my eye sitting on a clearance shelf at Pier One...I am a sucker for cobalt blue. The geraniums were mine, selected for their color in early spring and planted out by Mr. Lincoln. It's funny sometimes how things end up together.







"One Step At a Time"







We live and we learn to take one step at a time







There's no need to rush



It's like learning to fly or falling in love







It's gonna happen and it's supposed to happen



And we find the reasons why, one step at a time.

What a great September it has been. Two workshops, a trip to California, lots of new friends and paintings AND another winner. This month's winner of my petite painting giveaway is Leslie Saeta of Pasadena, CA. Go Leslie! Leslie is actually a great artist herself and I have used her sailboat paintings as exercises in some of my workshops. Check her work out on my blog list~

Now for the rest of you that didn't win, you are just gonna have to order your own painting.....so start going through your photos now or taking some new ones--I need something to paint---it's your turn to get creative!

"Bits and Pieces....of Art and Pie" DEMO SOLD

Saturday's demo--or at least a portion thereof! What a wonderful group of artists. It always amazes me how quickly the camaraderie grows between total strangers. By the end of the third day everyone actually hates to break up and go home. Art has such a unique, wonderful way of connecting people.

Of course, eating homemade olive nut spread (thanks Priscilla) and award winning Chess and Chocolate Chess Pie (thanks Barbara....she's the Paula Dean look alike above) doesn't hurt either.....

All's well that ends well. Thank you to all the wonderful artists who helped make it another incredible workshop experience!

JUST A NOTE: If you have been missing out on the fun, inspiration, and learning curve---I have one more workshop left in 2009 . It is Nov 3-5.....email me now to save your spot.

"Day Two at Winchester Opera House"

"Cobalt Teapot and Daisies"

Here's yesterday's demo as promised. This is a very focused, hard-working group of artists--I will try to get a shot of some of the great art they are producing tomorrow. I have not had an "assistant" this workshop, so I have been busier than usual trying to make the easel rounds and get photographs.....I know, sounds like a tough life. First I have to paint, then I get to talk with other artists about art, then do lunch, then paint some more and take pictures....the "work" just never ends.

Here are some of the artists hard at work--we have deluxe accommodations at the Winchester Opera House!

I had a beautiful day at the workshop and capped it off with dinner with art friends and came home to lots of good comments on my blog. Lots of things to be happy and grateful for. And I am that. Happy and grateful.

"A Peachy Little Still Life" SOLD

Today was the first day of my workshop at the gorgeous Winchester Opera House. I got so engrossed I totally forgot to snap any photos--sorry! This piece is a mini version of today's class demo. I will try to remember to photograph the demo tomorrow and post it so you can see what we are up too. This mini (done the night before) helped me to sort things out before I started on my demo. Talking and painting at the same time can be risky business, so the more thinking I do ahead of time, the less likely I am to paint myself in the corner (sorry, this is not a pun free zone....)

This class happens to be all girls. So I have already given my word that what happens at the workshop, stays at the workshop. I'm just sayin', I may not be able to post my usual workshop photos in order to protect the guilty, ahem....I mean the innocent. Wish you were here with us!

If you haven't read about it yet, check out my "30 in 30" petite commission idea. You can be the director of one of my blog size originals. Read about it here.

"Undercover Angel" SOLD

Meet Gabriel--angel of light (although, like any cat worth his salt, he has been known to throw some hissy fits..) Gabriel is my second painting in the "Direct Your Own Painting" commission series! I am having so much fun with this. Kind of like Forrest Gump's words "Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get.." it has opened up a whole world of fun in the studio.

This is the other half of Carla Pasley's furry kids. My cat, Eddie, has been in a bit of snit since I had the nerve to paint another cat so he has spent the day sulking under the bed. Both Gabriel and Carla have approved of this portrait...

"It is so fabulous! I love that you were able to get the flowers in the painting, too. Gabriel will be so pleased with it! He looks as noble as ever and I cannot wait to see it in person!!! Tell everyone, that I know they are jealous, but you are painting my kids best sides (and it shows!!).I am so happy that you decided to do this project. I have commissioned other small paintings of my Gabe and have enjoyed them, but yours shows his true self!Thanks, again!!"Carla

Don't disappoint me---you know you want to get in on this game. Send me your favorite thing captured in a photo and let me have at it. My appetite is whetted for adventure!

Note: Just on an art note...black fur is always a challenge to capture. Not much shows up in photos value wise. Carla had a good photo to work from and I called upon my "cat" memory to place some lighter values in areas to give definition....but this really proves the point in art that, as I tell my students, the outside edge of any object is what gives you the most information as to what it is. This shape, by any other name, would still be a cat!

"I Love Lucy!" SOLD

Say hello to Lucy. Lucy is the definition of why we allow these furry, shedding, licking, loving little people into our lives. With a face like this, the world is pretty much your oyster!

Lucy comes with an owner, Carla Pasley, who is first on the list for my 30 days/30 paintings series that I kicked off in my latest online newsletter (sign up here if you want to get future newsletters).

Realizing I am already committed to doing my little works, I decided it would be fun to open it up for audience participation. You pick the subject (pretty much anything goes, with the exception of people portraits). For the slight sum of $100 you can commission me to do a petite piece of something special to you. Treasured moments, places, things, favorite flowers, cats (Eddie will be jealous, but he will get over it)---you send the photo---I do the painting. Perfect match.

If this idea appeals to you (and I hope it does) email me here and I will mail you the information on how to get things started to own one of the 30 (now 27) commissioned originals. It's a great way to combine two loves--special things of yours captured in an original oil painting. And do I need to state the obvious? They make really wonderful gifts......

And besides, you know you love me and want to see me become super famous and then you can brag about the little painting you bought for only a hundred bucks way back when......

Note: I was pleased with the painting, but wanted to make sure Carla was happy before I let you see---below is Carla's response when I emailed her the picture of the painting.

OOOOOH! I love “I Love Lucy!” You have so captured her expression of an almost lost wonder and her preciousness! It makes me feel the way I did when I first fell in love with her. I am amazed and impressed with your skill, talent and obvious love of painting. I cannot wait to see it in person! Post away! I bet everyone else will love it too.
Carla

Thanks Carla and Lucy. I LOVE MY JOB!!

One Last Note: This is my 100th post on "Dreama' Day to Day Paintings". And they said I'd never make it ("They" being the negative singing chorale that lives on my shoulder and is usually pointing out all my shortcomings...they are gonna have to get a new song to sing now!)

"The Reviews Are In...."

It's always a bit sad when the workshop comes to an end. Camaraderie grows with each passing day and each artist's work tends to find its rhythm. I love what I do and this was such a gracious group of people. A sincere thanks to each one of you! And thanks to Bobby for letting us stay in his hair and gallery for 3 WHOLE DAYS!

Here's our crew (Kelly and Neil were out for the moment when we snapped this shot) and pieces from the "musical easels" exercise.

Just got in and read my feedback sheets--everyone to a person had a great time...Now that makes me happy!

"Day Two..Paintings and Conversations"

Day two of the workshop!

More paintings from some of the group.......

More fun than a box of new paints (and you know how I feel about that!)....

Another day jam-packed with great paintings by such a warm, wonderful group of artists!

Here's my demo from today. There is just no substitute for putting a whole group of painters together in one room. Bobby Shiflet, owner of Frames on Main where the workshop is being held, said he thought we were having too much fun......we didn't really have an argument for that!

Lee Harris coined a new word today that I have decided to adopt. I always let everyone know they are welcome to follow me from easel to easel to listen in on coaching I am giving to that particular artist. Lee dropped in on one such conversation and announced she was "easel-dropping" ....!

Altogether--just an awesome day!

"Morning, Glory!" SOLD (Class Demo)

Today has just been a delight from start to finish. The cool morning air just seemed right for a 3 day stint of creative immersion! The photos above capture parts of our morning, with introductions, beginnings and endings of the demo (I will try to get a better photo of the completed demo tomorrow...) This is a talented group of artists--they are keeping me on my toes with good questions and great paintings!

"Morning, Glory!" SOLD

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This scene is from San Juan Capistrano Mission. I always swing by there when in California because it is such a treasure trove of blooming things mixed with old brick and mortar. Each time of the day and each season yields a different glimpse of nature at her best. This pergola is near the front entrance and was showing off her newest stars.

Tomorrow starts my "Intimate Landscape" workshop and I will be doing this piece in a larger format for the demo---so this is a bit of a "warm up"!

Forgot to sign it.....I will have to do that later--I have a workshop to pack for!

"Help...I Can't Wipe the Grin Off My Face"

Okay, I know it's ridiculous, but those of you who paint will understand. New paints came in the mail today. BOXES OF NEW PAINTS. BOXES OF NEW COLORS. I have been trying to work on the computer, but it's all I can do to avoid THE BOX. If I were a cat, this would be my catnip.

Now those of you with a discerning eye will notice the painting knife in the above photo is big enough to serve pizza with. Catalogue ordering run a muck......I wanted a nice Italian made painting knife to ad to my collection. Unless I start painting billboards in the near future, this knife may just have to serve as a reminder to double check the size before dropping it in the virtual shopping cart.

Well, just wanted to share my personal glee. You will probably start seeing some of these colors surfacing in the near future........new colors are a wonderful thing. And that is why I can't wipe this silly, caught in the cat nip again look, off my face. Have a colorful day!!!!!!!

"Singled Out"

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I'm Back!! California was awesome. Hot and sunny. Beautiful days on the beach. Great paintings to see in Laguna Beach, especially Redfern Gallery. Visits with my artist friends at Spanish Village, lunch with Ginger Chang--a very inspiring woman. But most of all days spent with my beautiful, heart of my heart, friend---my daughter, Desiree.

So it's time to get busy with my art again....lots of painting to catch up on and a workshop coming up Monday. It's a tough life, but somebody's got to do it.....

"Red Hot Blues"

You may remember the small piece I posted on this a few weeks back. The smaller works provide a great way to "try on" ideas for compositions, colors, etc. The original 8" x 8" I did inspired this painting (an 18" x 18"). I modified the roof portion a bit, showing more of it and introducing the palm fronds. As you read this I am in California where this scene is located---San Diego, Balboa Park, Spanish Village Art Center, Studio One. The whole park is a never ending source of painting inspiration--if you make it to San Diego sometime, then you must make sure to visit the Spanish Village Art Center--I guarantee you will fall in love, just like I have! I have entered this painting in some national competitions so keep your fingers crossed for me...!

"Carlisle Workshop News and My August Winner"

Another workshop has come and gone. We laughed, we cried, we PAINTED our butts off. We ask ourselves and each other hard questions. Like, if you knew you could do anything and not fail, what would you do? Cate was so inspired by Sandy's answer she gave her a painting depicting it.....tight rope walker in the Big Top! And I thought she wanted to learn about painting......you just never know who's gonna show up at my workshops...!

Some of the Carlisle gang---I must say we did eat well!

And yes, that's a horse behind Louise, dressed like Elvis.....I never said artists were normal.....

Cate hard at work!

The numbers grow each month on subscribers to my blog--thanks so much for your interest and support---it is always a delight to see the response to my latest paintings and thoughts. And I love the fact that I get to give out some love right back at you with a drawing for one of my little paintings. So without further ado....the winner for the August Free Painting Giveaway is......

Becky Headley of Paris, Kentucky. Yeah Becky!!

Thought you might like to know how the winner is determined. Not fancy, but it works. I count the number of comments, blog followers, blog subscribers, and newsletter subscribers. Add them all together and then have someone pick a number. Whomever the number lands on--that's the winner for the month. As my numbers grow I may have to find a more effecient way to do it, but for now it works!

"Rose Bowl"

N/A (Temporarily on hold by the artist)
"I will remember my love makes a difference....arms curled gently around the world"


Sometimes less is more.

"California Ed Meets Kentucky Rose"

Donation to P.A.W.S.

Eddie takes time for the important things. Things like napping, finding a strip of sunshine to sun himself in, and stopping to smell the roses (he's pretty much into smelling tuna fish as well, but I don't know that I would follow his lead on that....)

This painting is being donated for the annual fundraiser for P.A.W.S. this Saturday, here in Paris. Eddie is (was) a pound cat himself. He was adopted in Carlsbad, CA. about 6 years ago. Our dog, Maggie, was adopted from the animal shelter here in Paris. It goes for a good cause, so if you're interested in purchasing this piece and helping animals like Eddie and Maggie, call Sue at 859-987-2582 for more information.

"New Beginning"

N/A (Temporarily on hold by artist)

I have been letting some ideas percolate for upcoming paintings. If you don't see me posting as often, it probably means I am painting and not sharing at the moment! This piece was under painted in an almost black acrylic. When the background was applied, I first painted it with my clear medium, then used straight undiluted paint---it slid on (literally) and allowed me to do somethings I liked...reminded me a bit of painting in watercolor. I have been feeling the love from everyone and boy, it does a body good. A big thank-you and hug to everyone!

I am so happy to be painting....and writing......and reading. Speaking of which (the reading) new book recommendation is "Standing by the Waters Edge" by Anne Paris. It is on the process of creating--I am about 20% into it and lovin' it!

"Buddy" SOLD

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This little guy started out to be painted as just a bud. I spied him yesterday, offspring of Mr. Lincoln, and loved the delicate, closed shape. I snipped him and placed him in cold water in the fridge (I have to say, I had a pang of guilt doing this, thinking nobody likes to be left in the cold and in the dark!) but I knew if he stayed on my kitchen counter he would be opened before I could get back from a day's visit with my Mom.

Sure enough, it worked. I checked in on him as soon as I got home and he was still tightly wrapped so I toted him into my studio. Now at this point, you have probably begin to wonder where is this "Buddy" I am talking about. Well, wouldn't you know it. He's just like us. The minute you pull him out, start paying attention to him and showering him with light and love--he starts opening up! Before I could get my fresh paint squeezed out, he was letting me into his heart. How cool is that! Didn't need to paint a tight little bud anyway.

"Caffeine Free"

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It has rained buckets here today, so this is an indoor photo that I will attempt to re shoot and post again tomorrow (providing the sun comes out!) I am on a rose hunt, so if you or someone you know has roses that I can come and photograph, please email me. I have a project I am working on that I need some photo references for. I particularly love the hybrid teas because of all the variety in colors and shapes.

And I am proud to announce I rec'd the coveted "5 Creams and 5 Sugars" award for the portrait of "Mr. Lincoln" from the prestigious Last Cup of Coffee blog (that's like a perfect score in the Olympics.....) which you must visit--it's listed on my favorite blogs (scroll down the page on the right) ....

Now have your coffee and a good laugh and call me on the roses---I need photos!

"Portrait of Mr. Lincoln" SOLD

It was important that I keep my promise. I had told Mr. Lincoln (seriously, that's his name, roses are named, in case you didn't know), that if he would hang in there I would do his portrait come Saturday. Well, wouldn't you know it, He was even bigger and showier when I went into my studio today. So we ditched the vase from yesterday and found a more sedate and less competitive container to cool his feet in. Now he and I are both happy---

He has been immortalized for generations to come and I no longer feel guilty. I decided to include the photos of him before coming indoors to model.

"Mr. Lincoln and Mr. Stewart"

This is Mr. Lincoln in his original home. The fence is 6' tall.....



This is Mr. Lincoln as viewed from my back porch where I was perched reading on my new Kindle (which I am in love with) when I felt someone staring at me. You know what I'm talking about. And there he was. (I actually think I heard him humming that old Rod Stewart song, ..."if you think I'm sexy, if you want my body, come on sugar let me know....")

Now you know why I had to paint him. Anybody that goes (grows) to that much trouble, deserves it........

"A Few Petals Shy"

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I started out with intentions of painting the rose. This particular guy had grown to over 6 feet tall and has been peering at me across my privacy fence with the look of "what's a guy gotta do to get waited on around here??" I was sitting on my back porch, reading, when I realized I could feel the rose staring at me.....again. I decided then and there it was painting time and who my next subject was gonna be. Unfortunately for the rose, I made the mistake of picking up the first vase I came to, which is covered in a mosaic of mirrors. With that much flash, I guess it was inevitable that Mr. Lincoln would end up playing second string. I am actually starting to feel quite guilty about the whole affair. If he hangs in for the night, I promise to give him center stage tomorrow.

"Tiki Hut in Birdville" SOLD

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"It looks like the perfect vacation spot dear." You can just hear the bird conversation now, what to pack, have the kids got their stuff together (no, of course not, bird kids are no different than people kids...). Then the "are we there yet???" stuff starts when they've scarcely flown off the tree limb. But at long last, after a long year of weathering the storms, shopping for worms for the kids, singing day in, day out, even when you were sure no one was listening---VACATION!!!

Life is good--especially in birdville.

(Clematis compliments of the front yard, bird house by Wallyworld)

*Please note my apologies if you are expecting a heavy dissertation on this painting. It is only a 6 x 6 and this is what spending too much time alone in the studio can do......
**Spellcheck kicked out birdville and Wallyworld---am I the only one that thought they were real words?????

"Ruby Red + Friends"

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I love listening to music while painting. I have an ipod that shuffles the music so sometimes it makes for some funny combos, however, the moving part for me is the diversity and abundance of beauty in music. Everything is so vast in styles, words, movements....it gives me courage in painting. A present reminder of all the tastes, all the beauty, there is room for ALL of us on this great big planet. Diversity is so exquisitely beautiful. Be it in music, vocals, writing, painting, sculpting, you name it. So my co-creators for today's piece would be Andrea Bocelli, Sting, the Agape choir, Michael Buble', Ron Browning, the Gypsy Kings, Pavarotti + Bryan Adams (now that's a duo!), Annie Lennox, Bill Briggs, David Gray, Christoper Cross, Amy Kanner, and others.....

Someone many years ago told me to never give up painting because it comes from a place beyond the ordinary. Today, celebrate your creativity--it is the divine thread that connects us all.

"Merrigold" SOLD

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Trust in the process of life. This "merri" gold (it's a happy little flower) started as a tiny black seed, but contained within itself all the promise of what it was to become. And so it is with our ideas, painting or otherwise. Be sensitive to your heart, to your ideas, to your dreams, for contained within them are all the things you could ever hope for......................and more.

"The Envelope Please...."

We have a winner for July's Free Painting Giveaway. The winning painting is posted here ("Just a Couple of Daisies" ) and the winner is....................drumroll...................hushed silence falls over the audience.......................sound of envelope being torn open.............................break for commercial .................(oh, I forgot, this is a blog, not t.v.) ..................and the winner is, Ann Pass of Lexington, KY. Congratulations ANN!!

"Peaches and Cream" SOLD

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"Peonies and Reflections" SOLD

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I will get a better photo tomorrow. I always struggle with getting the photo indoors (but it's late so I don't think the moon shot would work either.....) Peonies are such lush, exuberant flowers. When you have so many petals you need help to hold your head up, then one pretty much knows.... peonies don't hold back. They live life full out. A lesson on living from my friends, the peonies--now pause to reflect on that!

*Well, it's now morning and I have re-shot and posted a better image of the painting--sorry for the fuzzy one last night!

"Silver Lipped Bowl with Sun-kissed Flowers"

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My same bouquet of flowers (thank you Gretchen!) continues to inspire. Plus I found a few new treasures at one of our local antique stores here in Paris---swweeeett! Painting has an addictive nature and it can be so restful. When you are "in the moment" as often happens with painting, I think a full scale riot could break out on the street where I live and I probably wouldn't notice...now that's peace. When are you at your most peaceful state of being?

"Juice(y) Glass" SOLD

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I will re shoot this tomorrow--shooting indoors runs a poor second to the great outdoors! I think I may be finished painting the blue glass with the flowers, but one never knows (big grin here!) And yes, that's my signature crawling up the right side. The bottom felt perfect without it. The signature becomes part of the balance in the painting, whether we like it or not, and this would have felt to cluttered had it been on the bottom. Besides, it's my painting. I can sign it wherever I like. Mom said so.

"Apart from the Crowd" SOLD

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Yesterday's bouquet rearranged itself with no help from me. When I stepped into my studio today, the three blooms had pulled out from the crowd and placed themselves where they were swaying gently in the breeze generated by the ceiling fan. Singled out from the crowd, one can see just how delicate and beautiful the individual blossoms are that make up the greater whole. Painting causes us to examine things more closely........ and keeps you in a constant state of awe of the greater whole ...Nature itself. And for that reason, if no other, it is good to be a painter.

"Twins?"

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Looking at the two brown eyed girls got me to thinking back when I was growing up and running around the southeast with my sister, the one question that inevitably came up--"Are you all twins??" I am not sure who was more insulted--me at 14 or my sister at 18! Looking back now at our then, stick straight hair, parted down the middle and matching brown eyes (not to mention matching dresses....we sang in a gospel group and you had to have matching outfits), I have to get a bit tickled. We did look alike --kind of like my brown eyed girls in this glass. I bet they're sisters too (I started to ask them if they were twins, but figured they would just get annoyed..)

"I'm Ready for My Close-up" SOLD

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Finding a subject that draws you into it when painting is akin to having a really good meal...you try to stop when you're full, but if the food is there you just keep nibbling on it. Well, here's my latest nibble and I am making no promises that I'm ready to throw in the napkin (brush...)

"One Step At a Time"

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"One step at a time. We live and we learn to take one step at a time. Take one step at a time--there's no need to rush. We find the reasons why, one step at a time."

For today, savour your painting time, savour your life. Don't rush past this moment. Life is so full, good and abundant.

Listening to good music and painting with great joy--one step at a time.

"My Little Brown Eyed Girls" SOLD

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These sassy girls are hand-picked from my artist friend, Gretchen Gossardt's garden (and they were a gift (as in I didn't sneak and pick them, although her yard is tempting...) Its a sumptuous little painting----this photo doesn't capture it as well as I would like, but I have shot it several times and it's just misbehavin' ! So this is all the attention it gets today--I am chompin'at the bits to get to my studio......

"Family Ties"

Today's posting is meant to inspire you. And it is also meant to annoy my brother. You may or may not know that I have a brother. A brother who is an artist. A brother who is a very good artist. Over the years, it has been tough trying to develop myself, always in the shadow of my OLDER brother---I'm having a show at the local video store--he's unveiling an new book of his work. I'm traveling door to door trying to sell my work---he's painting the President of the United States (as in President Jimmy Carter) (yeah, for all you who feel like the competition is tough out there, cry me a river--trying having the competition at every family get together.....) But time heals all wounds. Or at least if one lives long enough, you may get your own audience with which to club an older sibling with (ooops, did I say that out loud?) So after suffering through many an "unveiling" I have felt the time is right to do a little unveiling myself. No matter how good you get, remember there is always someone in your family who "remembers when". This is me at 8--being mercilessly teased about my knobby knees and "refrigerator door" sized teeth (aren't brothers kind) I modeled while he painted. Just so I can still stay in the family, you will now have to visit his website to see if you feel he has improved any.

And I almost forgot the inspirational part.....after looking at his new work, let me know if you think painting regularly makes any difference....

Paris Workshop

Words kind of fail me in trying to relate just how much joy I derive from doing my workshops. This was an incredible group. Everyone came excited and open to living in the moment and painting from their heart. They did some amazing work. We laughed, we painted, we ate (well, best not go there.....) we harassed Bobby Shiflet (the owner of Frames on Main Gallery where the workshop was held) we just generally had a great time together. And, I think to a person, everyone left inspired and ready to go their places and PAINT THEIR PANTS OFF (figuratively speaking of course!) Thanks to all of you gals and guy (Neil) for taking the workshop!

Also, this little group here may look innocent, but they have single handedly forced me into having a landscape workshop at the same location in mid September--and Bobby has lost his mind 'cause he agreed with them! We will be working indoors from photos that I provide. There are already several signed up so contact me ASAP to save your spot!

Last, but certainly not least, Paris Artwalk is this Friday night, July 17th from 5-9. All over downtown artists will be displaying their newest loves and great nibbles will be at most locations along with music at some of the venues. Paris is a quaint downtown area and summer evenings at the artwalk is a perfect time to enjoy it. My paintings will be hanging out at Ardery's Antiques and just across the street at The Frames on Main Gallery---and I will be there as well. Looking forward to seeing some of y'all!

P.S. My next workshop is coming up August 28, 29, & 30th in Carlisle--save the date and get ready to paint (your pants off).....(figuratively speaking of course)....!

"It's All Fun and Games 'til Somebody Gets Paint on Them....."

Nancy Klek and I look like two kids turned loose in a candy store! Nancy is a fine equestrian painter---she declared that she had finally discovered her "inner Schmid" (as in Richard!) during this workshop.....

Above is some of the gang hard at work in the gallery--surrounded by beautiful artwork, they added to the beauty in the world by creating some of their own!

"A Daisy Kind of Day"

I am always thankful for a good painting day. It is sacred, meditative, intuitive, a communion of sorts. It conjures up the things that are more real than reality, that we never truly understand, but always have an abiding knowing of--the place where time is irrelevant and some thing comes from no thing. Pretty amazing stuff. I never expect to understand the creative process , I'm just glad it's part of life ... what are you thankful for today?

"Simple Pleasures" SOLD

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Nothing says summertime like simple daisies paired with a canning jar. It doesn't take money to have a bouquet that brings pleasure. Many years ago, much younger and short on funds, I would gather flowers from the woods where I lived. Trilliums, forget-me-nots, and of course the occasional daisy. I had a worn white table cloth trimmed in blue that I would place the simple bouquet in the middle of. It brought me much pleasure then and the thinking of it still does to this day. Crystal clear water, flowers made by God's hand and a simple blue canning jar--such are the things that a life is made of. Needless to say, I enjoyed my painting time today---and just in case you were wondering--hot pink was the flavor of the day for the undertone on my canvas--can you see it playing hide 'n' seek?