winter's gifts

Winter can pose some challenges. As someone who runs about 20 degrees behind the rest of the world, the onset of winter means for me, trying once again to figure out how many layers I can put on at one time….and still be able to move!! That said, winter in New England has its gifts. Winter skies are amazing. Is it because the colder molecules cast a cooler, clearer light? Is it because the earth is tilted further away from the sun? Is it because the lack of foliage allows an expanded view? I really have no idea. I just know that winter skies are unparalleled. They are gorgeous expansions of blue, purple and silver light. And then there is the snowfall. A fresh blanket of snow quiets the landscape visually, creating a sense of stillness. I have been developing a series which I hope evokes that feeling. I have completed several pastels which can be viewed here. Next I plan to work on some large canvases in acrylic with the goal of creating the experience of one’s stepping into that stillness. Stay tuned………..

genius

A friend recently stopped by my studio to purchase a painting for his new apartment. As he was looking around he said he thought he would like to buy a new painting for each season and then rotate them in the same space. What a fantastic idea! I'm pretty sure he is a genius :)

the thousandth layer

While visiting my family in FL last week, I was working on some small paintings on my Dad’s back porch. One in particular seemed quite problematic. I kept tweaking, revising, shifting the horizon line, etc………and still I could not make myself happy. Until finally, with one brushstroke, whatever is was, I smiled. Something good was emerging. And I thought, ”ah, on the thousandth layer.” Of course that is a bit of an exaggeration, but the point is that sometimes you have to stay with things for awhile before the good stuff surfaces. All of the layers underneath which were less than successful are an important part of the process add to the richness of the final painting. I will post some pictures as I finish series.