Mama's Shadow

Pastel

8" x 10" (framed)
Available

This artwork has a burnt sienna underpainting which was created using pastel diluted with isopropyl alcohol.  I worked lightly with my hardest pastel sticks and pencils so that the underpainting would peek through. Another advantage to this technique is that it "fixes" the original pastel drawing which is handy when a painting goes off course.  

As for the subjects, when I first I spotted them they were happily trimming overgrown field grasses.  Thankfully, they took a little break to say "hello" and pose for a snapshot. As I revisited them throughout the painting process, I couldn't help but smile at their adorable faces.  I so wanted to invite them home with me......hey, I have grass that need trimming too!

Autumn at Old River

Pastel

8" x 10" (framed)

Available

I'm loving my new Terry Ludwig pastels.  This "Goldilocks" is finally satisfied because these pastels are not too soft, nor too hard...they're just right. The particular landscape set I ordered contained the perfect color palette for creating this vibrant fall scene.  

The golden hour really came through for me during this visit to Old River.  The fall foliage was set ablaze when the setting sun's rays began to cut through the trees and skip across the grasses. The weather was still warm and the river was moving at a lazy pace, much like the artist enjoying this scene.  I hope the viewer senses the warmth and serenity of this beautiful place through my painting.

Serenity Now

Red Barn with Sheep

Pastel

8" x 10" (framed)

Available

A few difficult months have passed since my last blog entry.  We lost a beloved family member who up until recently had been in good health for all of her 96 years.  She was a testament to the power of eating right and exercising regularly.  She also had a great affection for animals and was known to bring vegetable treats to the horses and sheep near her home.  She would have loved this painting.

I was far off the beaten path when I discovered this ranch in the Capay Valley.  The soft light, the sound of bird song and the scent of spring grasses immediately put my mind at ease.  I was in my happy place and inspired to create.  Upon seeing this completed work, a friend told me that she was certain her blood pressure dropped 10 points. I hope the serenity of this pastel painting has that effect on everyone who views it.

Change is Good!

 Peaches and Grapes

Oil on panel (5" x 7")

 Lonely Lily

Oil on panel (5" x 7")

Cafe Zinnia

Oil on panel (8"x 10") PRINTS AVAILABLE

Ch-ch-ch-changes....listening to David Bowie this morning and announcing a big change in the way I make art. I've always wanted to try oil painting, but the fumes were bothersome. I've found water miscible/soluble oil paints to be the perfect solution.  I love the rich and saturated colorsof these luscious paints.  Here are my first few oil paintings.  I assure you, they won't be my last.  Loving this medium!

Candy Heaven!

Candy Heaven

Acrylic on panel (5" x 7")
Available

A visit to an old-timey candy store provided the inspiration for this painting.  While most candy store customers were choosing their favorites flavors, I was seeking candy with the most appealing shapes and colors. It took awhile to settle on just the right candy (or perhaps it was the free samples that delayed me). I enjoyed capturing these these tasty jewels through my art. The best part is that this painting is 100% calorie and sugar-free.  Enjoy!

This Time It's Personal

Juliette and Madeleine 

Acrylic on panel (4" x 4")

In private collection

I've been creating art for over three decades, but still come across subjects that I've yet to explore. When my twin great-nieces were born, I knew that a portrait would make the perfect keepsake for their family.  However, I'd never painted a baby before, let alone two babies!  Trying new subjects is a great way to grow and learn as an artist, so I forged ahead.  Throughout the process, I fought the urge to give these little angels a set of wings. I compromised by adding the gauze fabric to give them an ethereal quality. I'm very happy with the way this painting turned out.  The parents were moved to joyful tears upon receiving the portrait.  It doesn't get much better than that!

A Win-Win for Art and Land

(Click on photo for enlarged view)
"Solitude" SOLD
"The View From Gold Oak Ranch" SOLD

Each month, I join a group of artists and photographers to visit local farms and ranches. The purpose of these visits are to both educate and inspire the attendees.  When a season of "Art Farm" visits come to an end, the artist and photographers are invited to include their work in an art show and juried exhibition. The submitted art and photos are later displayed at a gala and art auction (Art Farm Harvest Gala). The resulting art sales benefit both artist and Yolo Land Trust, which helps preserve ranch and farm lands for the future.

The artists and photographers are allowed to enter a maximum of two works. We visit so many beautiful rural areas; I'm sure I'm not the only one who has difficulty choosing between them. I finally decided on the serene pond at Oakdale Ranch and the majestic mountain view from Gold Oak Ranch.  Both pieces were created in pastel on paper. It was a pleasure revisiting these beautiful locations as I created these paintings.