Mileage

I talk a lot in my workshops about how important it is to keep sketchbooks.  Don't make it hard!  Have one in your purse with a pen (or european man satchel for you guys).  Have one at your bedside with a pen.  Place one next to where you sit and watch TV, with a pen!  Having a family and all that goes with it AND trying to improve and gain earnest mileage we may only be able to carve out 15 minutes of time for art.  The top sketch was done while my daughters were at gymnastics.

When my husband's hand is frozen on the channel changer and it's NBA, NBA, NBA,  I have a Vogue or Elle (some fashion magazine) and I can keep him company and get in a little more mileage on my drawing.

Sometimes I will just sit with a pile of photos I have taken of our daughters and draw from those.  Hopefully to help keeps my skills in the intuitive department.  And I get painting ideas.

I always had a sketchbook with me at our kids' sporting events.  That's Rex in the middle!  Brings back fun memories!  I always feel a sense of satisfaction that I am able to do both.  Have a wonderful family, be there for them and have my art.  It's possible!

Paintings from the Knowlton Gallery

Ray and I recently participated in a Figure Show at the Knowlton Gallery in Lodi, CA.  Here are a few paintings from the show.

This is a painting I did of Cassidy.  It was in one sitting at a table in our backyard.

This painting I did of Ali and Tessa.  

A color study done down at the Torrey Pines Beach in Southern California.  It is one of my favorite beaches to paint at.

This I did from a photo of our daughters, Mary and Ali.  

I hope to!

             I love blogs that keep me in touch.  One of my favorites is Elements of Style by Erin Gates.  She posts everyday!! (almost) and not just to post.  She is very funny and candid.  She covers all things beautiful.
             I love beautiful art, homes, land, interiors, comfort, quality in all forms.  One thing I think we can all afford is original art.  I am surfing little nooks and crannies on the web (Etsy) and I am amazed at how much affordable art is available.   You do have to wade through the crap but it's there.
             So here are two images of recent works done in black and white gouache.  I still haven't got my own Etsy up yet, but someday and this is the type of work I hope to offer!  And they won't cost anywhere near my gallery oils and it's ORIGINAL!
              With that said, I do hope to post on a more regular basis.  I am always excited to see what's new!