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!