teresa mccue fine art

new in the studio

2011-10-24T19:15:00.000-07:00

Just finished up a four panel piece called season shift. Would love to find a big, beautiful wall to call home :)

passing the torch

2011-08-22T05:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I delivered nine tiny paintings to Nahcotta for the ETA 10 (Enormous Tiny Art) show. Working in a small format is a great opportunity to experiment a bit with materials. I tried applying three different grounds to the canvas. They all accepted the paint in a different way. The inspiration for the works was one of my favorite subjects.......SUMMER. I have been enjoying many early morning walks on the beach. Every day brings its own beauty.

2012 calendars are in the house!!

2011-08-08T05:48:00.000-07:00

It's always challenging to choose twelve images that tell the story of my work, but I am very happy with this mix. Some images are representational, some a bit more abstract: some done in pastel, others in acrylic.

.......now if I can just motivate the staff to get them packaged up!!

beach walk

2011-07-22T05:11:00.000-07:00

What an incredibly inspiring way to start the day.......

CHIHULY

2011-07-19T05:47:00.000-07:00

Finally made it in the the Boston MFA yesterday to see the Chihuly exhibit. It was SO inspiring! The installations are incredible from conception to scale to execution. It was very uplifting. If you can possibly get there, I would encourage you to do so! http://www.mfa.org/exhibitions/chihuly

Saturday Cove Fine Art re-opens!

2011-05-25T08:17:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to once again, be working with Kim Clark at Saturday Cove Fine Art in Northport, Maine. SO many years ago, it was Kim who welcomed me and my work, truly getting my career off the ground. After a well deserved break, she and her husband, Scot Sebold have re-opened the gallery and are excited about the season ahead. Mid-coast Maine is an absolutely gorgeous area and this beautiful gallery , filled with fine art, crafts, home and garden items, is just one more reason to make the trip!

2011-05-24T06:25:00.000-07:00

It has not been a particularly lovely spring here in New England. Unseasonably cool, cloudy with lots of rain. Nonetheless, nature, ever steadfast, went about the business of renewal. Eventually, the sun came out......and the masterpiece revealed.

COLOR /VALUE QUIZ answer (newsletter)

2011-03-01T16:13:00.000-08:00

SO.....you knew it was a trick question, yes? The answer is that the the line in all three rectangles is the same, but it appears altered by the colors and values of the the colors surrounding it. (value meaning lightness or darkness) This is something I learned many years ago...and I use it all the time in my work......and yet it STILL fascinates me!!

MFA visit

2011-02-22T14:39:00.000-08:00

The minute I walk through the doors at the Boston MFA, I can feel something wash over me that is a mix of serenity and exhilaration. This happens every time. It can be the new wing (which is AMAZING, by the way) or the older part of the museum. It doesn't have to be any particular show. It is just so amazing to be in a space where art is revered and beautifully displayed. Some people are talking animatedly about the work with friends, some are sitting with it quietly. Some work you love, some you don't. Other pieces seem hard to access. This is all okay. You are looking, thinking, expanding your own vision.

tiny art time!!

2011-01-31T09:41:00.000-08:00

I just dropped off some small acrylic paintings on paper to Nahcotta for ETA 9! The tiny art shows are a great opportunity to try something new or develop an entire series on a single backboard in the studio! Working a number of pieces at once is a favorite way of working for me. Each informs the other. As I have been spending a lot of time looking at the winter sky, I chose a soft, muted palette for this series.

As always, I am excited to see the work of other participating artists. This show is always so diverse. I love that!

sentinels of winter

2011-01-02T15:04:00.000-08:00

Every year once the leaves have fallen, I find myself watching the bare trees and the light surrounding them. They are sentinels standing against a silver sky. The motion as I walk or watch from a vehicle constantly shifts their relational positioning and flickers of light bounce off the bark. I am beginning to explore this fascination in my work.

Ogunquit Museum of American Art Invitational

2010-11-07T06:59:00.001-08:00

The OMAA invitational was a fun and BUSY weekend. Such a gorgeous spot and there was a wonderful and varied group of exhibitors. LOTS of attendees came through and were very receptive to my work :) It was great to see some dear friends who made the trek and I must say a special thank you to my friend who crazily volunteered to help with the set up!!

magical place

2010-09-16T06:38:00.000-07:00

I just finished up a little pastel series based upon a magical place in Denmark, Maine.

steamy opening!

2010-09-07T16:00:00.000-07:00

The ETA8 opening at Nahcotta was hopping. It was crowded and steamy! Kind of like and opening and a spa treatment all in one! As always, it was great to see such diversity in one show. I had the pleasure of chatting with Virginia Fitzgerald who is new to the gallery. Love her work. Check out her blog! Am crazy about the beach installations which are part of her dress project.

art is essential

2010-08-30T12:47:00.000-07:00

There is a prevailing train of thought that when times gets financially challenging, one of the first areas to be cut from the budget are those relating to the arts……which are deemed “non-essential”. I would like to offer a different perspective. Art elevates the quality of our lives. Whether sitting in a theater immersed in a play, listening to musicians in a club or relaxing at home enjoying a painting, art can provide exhilaration, solace or a place for contemplation. It’s a place to clear our brains and breathe again. Pretty important, I would say.

2011 calendar

2010-08-20T06:44:00.000-07:00

My 2011 calendar is in the works!! We are keeping the same size and format, but making some subtle shifts in the design. I'm excited to see it printed...probably in a couple of weeks. Stay tuned!!

working away

2010-08-08T07:10:00.000-07:00

Lula and I have been working away on some new acrylic paintings. Actually mostly, I am working and she is napping, but we all have our jobs. I am very interested in creating both a beautiful image which speaks to the spiritual quality of nature .....AND a beautiful surface. It's kind of a tall order, but I am making my way.

portsmouth en plein air

2010-06-21T07:32:00.000-07:00

I recently stopped into the Kennedy Gallery and frame shop here in Portsmouth. I had read about the show for which the artist, Erin Murray, had committed to painting plein air throughout the city for one month. The results are lovely; beautifully composed paintings capturing the charm of our historical seaside community. The color and light are wonderful. Erin happened to be there, so I had the pleasure of talking with her. I learned that 50% of her proceeds are being donated to A Safe Place, an organization founded in 1976 to prevent and eliminate domestic abuse. And there were LOTS of red dots!! (sales) Luckily there are still some works available and the show is up through June 28th, so check it out!!

Go, Nan, go!!!!

2010-06-10T05:48:00.000-07:00

I spent Memorial Day weekend in the very cool city of Burlington, VT. My sister was running in the KeyBank Vermont City Marathon as a fundraiser for Konbit Sante. My niece, Rory and I went to cheer her on. It was a really fun event. Lots of good energy. Nancy ran a great race, one of her best times ever. When she finished, instead of heading for the nearest bubble bath, she was completely euphoric and energetic. My incredible sister. Go, Nan, go!!

immersion

2010-05-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

Today I stood in front of a large white canvas which I primed some time ago. At that time, I had a vague idea about the painting I wanted to make. But other studio commitments and unexpected occurrences put two months between my original thought and this moment. (Thankfully, my loyal assistant, Lula was there to offer support.) Hmmm……..where to start??? I believe the best way to start a painting….is to start it. I cannot execute the entire process first in my head. I need to put something down on the surface and respond to that…..and then respond to that, etc… And so I began putting down color and then layering it………not exactly sure about where I was headed. There is something about that unknown that pulls me forward. At some point I realized I was smiling. I was fully engaged in the creative process. It brought to mind that feeling of taking a deep breath and diving into the ocean. At once one is immersed, exhilarated, happy.

hot off the easel

2010-04-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

I just finished a commission consisting of ten small pastels. Next week I will begin another commission which is for one large pastel. Took advantage of a brief interim to complete several pastels which have been close for awhile. I just needed to spend some time with them to make any final adjustments.

AD 20/21

2010-02-23T04:56:00.000-08:00

Diana Levine Fine Art, a gallery I have had the pleasure of working with for many years, will be exhibiting at the AD 20/21 show at The Cyclorama in Boston this weekend. With forty exhibitors, the show features a vast array of contemporary art, furniture, crafts, jewelry and more. Yesterday she and her crew worked very hard moving the work over to the Cyclorama and setting up the display. She will be including a number of my pastels and giclees in the mix. I hope it is a wonderful event for all of us!

the quality of a line / the quality of life

2010-02-16T14:39:00.000-08:00

As a junior in college, ALL those many years ago, I was completely immersed in studio work. I loved it!! At the same time, my sister was in nursing school. This struck me as a much more noble profession. BUT………I am a big time fainter when it comes to things medical, so I concluded it probably was not the career path for me. Once I poked my head in the office door of my favorite professor and out of the blue, asked, “When there are people out there researching a cure for cancer, is it right for me to be spending my days struggling with the quality of a line?” Without missing a beat, he said, “Scientists are working to prolong life. Art elevates the quality of life.” Is this a question he had pondered himself? Did he just blurt out the first thing that came into his mind?? I guess I’ll never know. But with that quick response, he gave me permission to be who I am. I have been revisiting that conversation lately while working in my studio. Probably because of all of the strife I am hearing about in Haiti and elsewhere. Sure hope he was right……….

tiny art for a BIG cause

2010-02-04T16:53:00.000-08:00

It's that time again! Tiny art has made its way from all over the country for Nahcotta's ETA Show 7!!! As always, the show promises to be a visual feast. It's amazing to see such diversity in one place. I am pleased to be exhibiting with so many fine artists. Show dates are Feb 4 - March 1. The opening is Friday, Feb 5th from 5-8PM. It promises to be a fun, energized event.
For the month of February, Nahcotta and I will donate 50% of the proceeds of the sale of my paintings to Konbit Sante's earthquake relief fund. Founded in 2000, the mission of Konbit Sante is to work in partnership with Haitians toward improving the quality of healthcare. This organization is particularly close to my heart as my brother-in-law is the executive director and is hard at work in Haiti assisting earthquake victims.

romantic reds

2010-01-29T09:01:00.000-08:00

I'm just heading out to deliver some small pastels to the Powers Gallery! Hopefully there are some romantics out there who would like to surprise their special someone with a truly unique valentine :)

north / south artist retreats

2010-01-25T05:31:00.000-08:00

I recently heard from a long time friend of my sister and her husband, Scott Stoll. Scott is an amazing sculptor. I find his work to be stunning: fluid and graceful. He even did a series in homage to the stiletto! You have to love that! He was writing primarily to tell me about his role in managing North / South Artist Retreats. In January, the retreat is held in Antigua, Guatemala. In September the retreat is held on Georgetown Island, near Bath, ME. Both locations have their own unique magic. In addition to working in a beautiful setting, interaction with other artists will further enhance one’s creative growth. Take a look at the website. Sounds pretty amazing!

two journeys

2010-01-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow my niece and brother-in-law are heading out on two very different trips. My niece, a junior in college is departing on a semester at sea. She will be taking classes while experiencing the cultures of ten different countries. What an amazingly exciting and expansive experience. I am so happy for her ......and proud of her! (always)
My brother-in-law is heading to Haiti. He works with an organization called Konbit Sante at the Justinian Hospital in Cap Haitien. They will be setting up emergency response units for the countless earthquake victims. It’s impossible to imagine the situation he will be stepping into. I am in awe of his compassion and courage.
I’m sure both will have experiences that will forever stay with them. They are both very much in my heart.

interesting juxtaposition

2010-01-08T15:04:00.001-08:00

I recently said to a friend that although I was enjoying the holidays, I was looking forward to getting back to work in the studio. I realize that just being able to make that statement makes me very lucky. I have been moving back and forth between twelve 6” x 6” paintings for the ETA7 show and two 48” x 48” canvases which are somewhat related to my recent pastel series. The larger canvases barely fit on my easel! And as acrylic dries fairly quickly, I need to really move the paint across the surface with a great deal of energy. (This could be a new workout!) Only then can I stand back and evaluate the whole. LOTS more layers to go, but I am enjoying the process and the feeling of expansiveness. After a few days of that, I went back to working on the little guys. These feel very intimate. I am right up against them, working with very fine brushes. It has been an interesting juxtaposition!

winter's gifts

2009-12-21T14:26:00.001-08:00

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

2009-12-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-05T09:46:00.000-08:00

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.

something new!!

2009-11-17T08:02:00.000-08:00

There is something new in my online shop...... my very first, hot off the press, holiday card!!!
I KNOW, we all like to think that the holidays are off in the distance, but before you know it, we will be in that whirlwind of decorating, baking, shopping and socializing that make the holiday season a fun, but hectic time. So get a jump on things and order your cards early!

2010 calendars at the MFA

2009-11-16T07:43:00.000-08:00

My friend was recently at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts gift shop and snapped this picture of my calendars on display there! This is the third year that I have been fortunate enough to sell my calendars at the MFA and it is still super exciting!

AND..........a recent not so small pastel

2009-11-02T15:48:00.001-08:00

small works in acrylic

2009-11-02T15:35:00.000-08:00

I just finished up some small paintings in acrylic. NO, not as small as the mini pastels for the deCordova gala. These are 6"x6". Some are on canvas and some on panel. It's nice when working this size, to be able to experiment with materials. In some cases I primed the surface with modeling paste. In some I used iridescence in the paint and / or finished with a glossy "leveling" gel.

heading to the deCordova!!

2009-10-12T07:01:00.000-07:00

I just finished up 19 tiny …………and when I say tiny………….2”x3” pastels for a special event being held at the de Cordova. Kim of Three Graces Gallery will be bringing her Teeny Tiny Art vending machine to the de Cordova as part of the preliminary festivities to their annual gala fundraiser. I wasn’t sure how it would be to work THAT small. But actually, it was fun! Gave me some ideas for a new series!

wrapping things up!

2009-09-23T15:49:00.000-07:00

I THINK this is going to be the week to wrap up a couple of important projects. One is my 2010 calendar. I just had the final proofing session with Bill at Phineas Graphics. AND I think my new website which is being designed by Kim at Three Graces Gallery should soon be up and running. YEAH! In addition to my work in pastel, the new site will also include my works in acrylic as well as an expanded giclee offering. AND.....I am also actually doing a little painting, a series inspired by my early morning walks.

is it true artists have more fun??

2009-09-18T11:01:00.000-07:00

Some days it is! Yesterday I went with a friend for my FIRST surfing lesson. What a BLAST!! It was fun,exhilarating and an amazing workout. I had NO idea. The surf was big, so just paddling out was a challenge. I think I actually forgot to stand up all the way on my longest ride, so it was more of a "squatting maneuver", very graceful I am sure. Still I was screaming with delight the whole time.

So what does this have to do with art? Well, they say that one cannot create in a vacuum, but rather needs to experience life and then respond to it through their work. Just part of the job, I guess.

paint, beautiful paint

2009-07-30T12:07:00.001-07:00

I have been working away on some acrylic paintings for the Nahcotta Landscape Show. Last week at some point, I thought to myself, I LOVE this medium. Wasn’t always so. Several years ago, when I began to explore acrylics, I was aggravated when they did not behave in the same manner as pastels with which I have had many years of experience. So more often than not, I would pack the paints up after a brief time and return to my familiar, trusted pastels. Two years ago, I decided to commit to this relationship. True, acrylics are not as immediate as pastels. Not always as opaque…..AND they dry a bit darker. BUT, they have many wonderful qualities of their own. I am really enjoying exploring textures and iridescence which are now available to me. The paint can go thickly with a palette knife, or be brushed on in many transparent layers yielding a rich, luminous surface. I feel as though I am on the verge of some exciting new work. Glad I stuck it out. The best is yet to come.

umbrian magic

2009-06-09T12:25:00.000-07:00

I recently stumbled upon a series of pastels I started on location as an artist in residence at the International School of Art in Montecastello. All these years later, I could see something new in these pieces and so I decided to pull them out of the flat file and finish them up! It brought back some wonderful memories about a magical place. Soon I will be delivering the series to Diana Levine Fine Art in the Boston Design Center and HOPEFULLY they will find a new home!! To see the entire series, click here.

acrylics at nahcotta

2009-05-23T15:08:00.000-07:00

Deb and Abbie did their usual amazing job in hanging the work for the May show. The first time I walked into the gallery and saw my acrylics in their lovely space, it was like I was seeing them with with fresh eyes. Just wanted to say, "thanks, ladies!!".......... and to share a few pictures.

another reason to appreciate art...........

2009-03-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

.....it appreciates!! At a recent opening, a friend of mine was inquiring about art biz in these clearly challenging times. Well……………challenging, I would say. He made the point, and a lovely point it is, that art is one thing that consistently appreciates. Maybe there was even MORE reason for people to be buying art now. Also, it is something that can be enjoyed every day. Other collectors have suggested that art is a home improvement that they can take with them when they move, a legacy to pass onto to their children and a place to find solace in our often stressful lives. Something to think about.

works in progress

2009-03-01T14:34:00.000-08:00

My studio is currently filled with LOTS of paintings at various stages of development. I have been working primarily with acrylic. Most of the images are abstracted landscapes. I am also still interested in exploring the many textural additives that are available to me with this versatile medium. Yesterday I decided to hang some of the "works in progress" up so that I could get a better look at them. It's nice to see them as a body of work. I need to spend a little more time looking and tweaking. SOME may even be finished.

pastel show

2009-03-01T14:15:00.000-08:00

This week I delivered some "hot off the easel" pastels to the Powers Gallery in Acton, MA. They are getting ready for their much anticipated Pastel Show. I am honored to be exhibiting with such notable pastel artists as Christal Bjork, Robert Carsten, Wolf Kahn and Will Klemm. It's always amazing to see the many ways in which artists use this rich, vibrant medium. Show dates are March 7- April 11. I hope you get to check it out!

Enormous Tiny Art Show 5 !!!

2009-01-30T06:46:00.000-08:00

I just delivered twelve small paintings to Nahcotta for the ENORMOUS TINY ART SHOW 5. They are works in acrylic done on 6x6 panels. Deb and Abbie are knee deep in tiny art! As always, it's exciting to see the great diversity of work. The opening is Friday, Feb 6th, so mark your calendars!!

something good is happening

2008-12-30T16:43:00.000-08:00

.......to quote the B52s. SO.......I have been plugging away in the studio working in acrylic on a series of small panels for the Enormous Tiny Art show at Nahcotta in February.........and now twelve panels into it, I can see that something is starting to gel. I am allowing myself to paint in whatever fashion moves me. Some of these pieces are representational. Some are abstract. Some have texture. I am not over analyzing, but just stepping into the process. I can feel that I am internalizing something. Not sure what just yet. Am I getting excited? Yes! Am I ready to share these images? Not quite yet. I need to dig in a bit more........BUT, just wanted you to know...something good is happening!!

In the meantime, I will post a picture of the always beautiful Lula and Max :)

back to reality

2008-11-24T07:27:00.001-08:00

I just returned from a super relaxing vacation visiting family in FL. It was a week without deadlines: just some reading, painting, eating, drinking and sleeping! What a wonderful concept. When I got home Saturday night, the wind was howling and the temperature was 21 degrees. Hmmmmm.

While away, I began a spring series done in acrylic on small wood blocks. I am hoping to debut them at Nahcotta's Enormous Tiny Art show in February. I should mention that in order to fit my art supplies in my suitcase, I had to sacrifice shoes, clothes and my hairdryer!!.....lest you question my devotion to my work :)

2009 calendars!

2008-10-21T09:47:00.000-07:00

I have been delighted by the response to my 2009 calendar! Almost everyone who sees it says, without any prompting, "Oh I LOVE the size!" It's funny because I was hesitant to make the calendar smaller, 8x8 as opposed to 12x12, for fear it would diminish the visual impact. But it still has plenty of punch and this new, smaller size is much easier to find a convenient spot for. Who knew?? People are also loving the translucent white envelope which makes a nice presentation. (and is recyclable!!) I have also been gratified to hear some encouraging comments regarding the variety of imagery. I tried to mix it up a bit to mirror my creative journey.

Sky Fever

2008-10-07T05:54:00.000-07:00

I have recently been doing some work in an elongated format. It seems to add to the expansive feeling of the painting. One such pastel, Sky Fever, is currently on view at Nahcotta.

where did the summer go??!!

2008-09-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

This summer went by with lightening speed. Recently a friend of mine was bemoaning all the rain we’d had and I hadn’t even noticed! I had a number of show commitments and weekends away with family and friends. Lots going on. But one evening really stands out for me. I have four nieces who all live in different states, MA, ME, FL and TX. Somehow the planets aligned and they all happened to be in New England the same week. We had an impromptu dinner at my Dad’s in NH. It was the first time they all been in one place together in years! And two of them also brought their little ones. My Dad’s normally tranquil house was filled with the sounds of giggling, tumbling, laughter and fragmented conversation. It was a brief, chaotic, but very special family time. A beautiful gift.

small works shows open Friday, Sept 5!!

2008-09-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

Two fabulous galleries here in Portsmouth are busily preparing for their bi-annual small works shows. The Teeny Tiny Art Show III at Three Graces Gallery and the
Enormous Tiny Art Show IV at Nahcotta both promise to be amazing. The galleries will be featuring approximately 300 and 400 works respectively. It's a wonderful way take in a huge amount of diverse work. Participating artists are from all over the country. And works are very reasonably priced, so it's great way to begin or expand your art collection. The openings are in conjunction with Art'Round Town which has been moved to the first Friday of the month, so Friday September 5th from 5-8. Should be a blast!!

lanscape show at Nahcotta

2008-08-04T07:54:00.000-07:00

I just delivered some "hot off the easel" pastels to Nahcotta for their 2008 landscape show. Most of the other artists had already dropped off their work and it looks like it's going to be an exciting show! It always fascinating to see the varied interpretations of any given theme. The opening is this Friday, August 8 from 5-8. It would be great to see you there!!!

Denmark Magic

2008-08-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of spending some time in Denmark, ME with my family. My brother-in-law and his family built a beautiful vacation home, right on the water. Many of the materials were recycled. It is a welcoming and relaxing place with lots of amazing views. I think I feel a new series coming on.

show on Martha's Vineyard!!

2008-07-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

Well......FINALLY Summer has arrived!! Beaches and barbecues await! Should your travels this year take you to beautiful Martha's Vineyard, I hope you will stop into the Belushi Pisano Gallery in the heart of Vineyard Haven. The gallery is filled with wonderful original art and fine crafts. I am excited to be having a show there this year. The opening is July 18th. Would LOVE to see you there! But even if you are unable to make it that night, my work is on hand throughout the season.

distillations

2008-06-21T14:05:00.000-07:00

I have been working on some paintings using acrylic. Before I begin, I usually tone the surface and/ or use a palette knife to smear on some textured gel medium. Once the surface is dry, I begin to put color on top of it. I am thinking about color, light, texture and paint. I am thinking about rock formations, the ocean, currents, the wind and sky. AND......I am trying NOT to think too much, but to just respond to what is already on the surface. One mark goes down, which inspires the next, and so on. While these paintings might not be recognizable as landscape, they are distillations many years of observation. They celebrate paint for its own sake and more directly express emotion purely by use of color.

left bank gallery in wellfleet

2008-06-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

I recently delivered a new body of work to the Left Bank Gallery in Wellfleet. What a gorgeous spot, right on the marsh. The gallery is filled with amazing original art, fine crafts and furnishings and jewelry. It's true, the cost of gas is through the roof, but go anyway!! Summer is short. Go to the beach, barbecue, ride bikes, garden, eat ice cream and BUY ART! :)

why abstraction??

2008-06-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

WHY, one might reasonably ask, after many years of study and development, of honing the ability to make a two dimensional surface look like "something", in my case a landscape in three dimension.......WHY then would you wish to disregard that skill in favor of abstraction?? Paint, texture, color, on a two dimensional plane. There are several ways in which to answer this question. One is that when looking at the work of other painters, I found myself drawn to abstract work. The other is that after many years of exploring the landscape, I am needing something new to keep me challenged creatively. On some level, I have always used landscape as a vehicle for expressing emotion through color and light. With my abstract work, I am still using the same elements of composition, color, light, value, rhythm, texture. Just in a more direct way. And believe me,it is incredibly challenging. I'm not exactly sure where I am heading, but the journey is exciting. It is that unknown that pulls me forward.

blog neglect

2008-05-21T16:50:00.000-07:00

...........guilty as charged. There is NO excuse. And yet, I will offer this. I have been working REALLY hard in my studio!! My solo show at Nahcotta was such an exciting experience. As I have mentioned before, Nahcotta is a wonderful gallery, right here in my FAB hometown. And.......the show, Explorations, introduced some of my new work in acrylic. The opening was amazing!! The show is up through June 8th, so there is still time to see it!!

Currently, I am working on deliveries to two other incredible galleries, a bit south of here. The Left Bank Gallery in Welfleet on the Cape ..........and the Belushi-Pisano Gallery on Martha's Vineyard. I am very excited about the upcoming Summer season. Stay tuned!

fabulous monotype workshop!!!!

2008-02-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

This weekend I had the wonderful opportunity of attending a monotype workshop in the studio of Roger Goldenberg. I have been curious about monotypes for a long time and thought it could be a good way to expand my creative language. My good friend, Jean, who was way overdue for a Portsmouth visit signed up, too! (We went to art school together some gazillion years ago) And only when I arrived at the studio, did I realize that one of my neighbors was also a participant! It was a great group and a couple of FULL days. On the first day, we worked on lexan plates. These are a bit thick to go through the press and so require hand rubbing or pressing with a heavy rolling pin onto the paper. The beauty of this method is that it can be easily replicated at home. We worked initially in reductive manner, which was a great way to explore mark making with a variety of implements, and then by applying inks to the plate in additive approach. Day two brought aluminum plates, which were better suited to going through the press and afforded experimentation with embossing. Possibilities are infinite! Roger did a wonderful job of teaching many methods in a relaxed manner and in helping us all to maximize our printing time by doing the grunt work of cleaning our plates and tools, so that we could focus on creating. What a treat!! He is a very generous instructor and I would encourage anyone with an interest in printmaking to look into his upcoming workshops.

acrylic explorations

2008-02-26T13:41:00.000-08:00

I have been working for some time now, off and on for several years, with acrylic paint. Inevitably, I would become frustrated and / or have a show commitment, so the acrylics would get put away and I would be reunited with my beloved pastels. Ah……..like coming home. So familiar and comfortable. In recent months, however, my study of acrylics has intensified. I have been spending the majority of my studio time socking it out with this unfamiliar medium. So many new things with which to contend. For instance, drying time: With pastels, there is NO drying time. So in SOME ways, the speedy drying time of acrylics is well suited to my working style. But what about when I want to blend color in a large area? I am moving that brush around like crazy!! And when the colors do dry, they are somewhat darker. I will put down a nice highlight at what I deem to be the ideal value, and when it dries it is darker an almost disappears. Then there are the issue of transparency and fluidity, both new for me. And the choice of substrates on which to work…….and the huge number of additives that can be mixed into the paint to alter its texture. Possibilities are infinite. This is both the good news and the bad news. Much to figure out and so many exciting possibilities, which, in case you were wondering WHY I was pushing myself into this new territory (and believe me, I have asked myself that very question many times) …..is the reason. Stay tuned……..(hint: think Nahcotta in May)

how long did it take you to paint that??

2008-02-26T13:37:00.000-08:00

Recently, while at Nahcotta, I had the pleasure of meeting one of their clients who has purchased my work on several occasions. Standing in front of one of my paintings, he asked, in a very nice way, “How long did it take you to paint this?” I started with “Well, about twenty years and…then some number of hours.” Immediately, I could imagine him calculating my hourly rate……..and I was really hoping that he was factoring in the twenty years!! It is such a reasonable question. Particularly when one is spending quite a bit of money on artwork, it is reasonable to want to quantify that purchase somehow….in addition to the most important factor of it feeding one’s soul. I have been thinking about that conversation quite a bit of late. As I am exploring a new medium, I find myself remembering my struggles with pastels in the early days….and the feeling of utter elation and surprise when I got one to actually work! Hmmmmm, I would think, “If only I could get that to happen again.” In time, I did develop a better understanding of my materials and a clearer vision for my work. But even today, there are paintings that I am unable to resolve. Every painting, successful or unsuccessful, informs the painting on my easel today. Even when I am not painting, I am thinking about painting. I am looking at light, shadows, reflections, color, values and shapes all the time! Observing. Composing. It is all is part of my creative process.

a few more bits from Cali

2008-02-04T19:23:00.000-08:00

A few more things worthy of mention RE: my Cali trip.

In San Francisco, I saw a wonderful show at the SF MOMA. Olafur Eliasson. The exhibit, which is interactive, opens one's awareness to aspects of light, movement and perception. It was truly delightful as well as thought provoking.

While in LA, I had the opportunity to attend the LA Art Show. There were approximately a gazillion galleries represented from across the country, and actually one or two from England. Two artists really stood out for me. One is Rusty Scruby. His works on view were essentially two dimensional, but had undulating surfaces. They almost looked as though they were woven. But the representative explained that his pieces were actually constructed by using a tabbing system which was stable and yet allowed for the variation of the surface. When I looked at his site, I could see that some of his works actually reveal the tabbing system on the front of the piece.

Broken Angel by Steve Yeates really caught my eye. The artist creates sculptures with recycled glass and poured resin. Looked beuatiful in the spotlight.

hey, it's been at least 17 hours! Time for another show!!

2008-02-01T14:45:00.000-08:00

Good thing for adrenaline. Julie, of course, had everything well under control, so when I got back to Santa Monica we just needed to hang the work, change clothes.....and away we go! They had removed most of the furniture for the event which really opened up the space and made it easy for people to view the paintings. (Also provided great tumbling space for the little ones) Once again, I had some great conversations with some really interesting people. I was truly honored by the attendance of my ninety -year old Uncle Dan who spends part of the winter with my cousin, Cara and her family in Woodland Hills. It was such a fun night, after which just a small group stayed for a relaxing dinner........PERFECT all around.

It’s hard to convey the appreciation I feel for those who hosted and welcomed me so graciously. I hope it is just the beginning of more such events as I work my way toward becoming ”bi-coastal pastel-girl”.

and now the work begins: LA

2008-02-01T13:51:00.000-08:00

After a quick flight to LA, Deb went to stay with friends who had recently moved there and I got to work!! It was great to see my cousin and her family. Julie is a fabulous cook, so once again, I was treated to some amazing meals. I really enjoyed having the chance to visit with her and Paul and their very special son, Flynn. Flynn turned six during my stay there, but I'm pretty sure he has been here before. Thursday night we unpacked the work as one of Julie’s friends had requested a sneak preview. Then Friday AM I packed up the rental-mobile and headed to Huntington Beach, to the home of my friend, Toby. I have known Toby since childhood and she has become one of my biggest collectors.......even though we live 3000 miles apart!! When I first proposed the possibility of going out West to have some small shows, Toby was totally excited to host one. After a little reunion, she and her daughter and I got to work setting up the paintings and getting the food and wine all set up. It was a mad dash, but it all worked out beautifully. Shortly after 7:00 the house began to fill up. Toby was great about bringing me around an introducing me to her guests. It was a great chance to meet a new group of people and many of them seem to feel a connection to my work………which is a supreme compliment. At the end of the evening, we were regaled by one of the guests with hilarious stories of their days working together for Disney. A really fun night with a great group of people. A late night rolled into an early morning and after breakfast, it was time to pack up the work and head back up to Santa Monica fro the Saturday opening. Oh my.

working my way back to Eastern Standard Time

2008-02-01T12:38:00.000-08:00

Returned from my FABULOUS West Coast Tour early Tuesday morning and am slowly getting back to real life. It was an amazing trip for me in every way. I had the chance to see some wonderful artwork, drink yummy wine, eat delicous food.....and SHOP!!! And most importanty, reconnect with family and friends AND meet some great new people. Where to begin? Well, oddly enough, the LA pastel tour actually started in San Francisco. I was traveling with my friend, Deb, owner of the way hip Nahcotta gallery, here in Portsmouth. It just so happens that one of the artists she represents, Tjasa Owen, lives and works in San Francisco. I have always admired her work and so we were both thrilled to visit her studio, which is a beautiful space in a quiet little nook, but right around the corner from a thriving neighborhood. Tjasa was so helpful in terms of suggesting galleries we should visit. (Hang was my favorite) And places to eat. At her suggestion, we had breakfast at La Boulangerie, an amazing bakery where everything was freshly made. When you order a large coffee there, they serve it to you in a BOWL!! A bowl of coffee. Yes, indeed, that's the way to start the day. While innocently walking on our way to a gallery, I happened to glance in the window of boutique, Christine Foley. The manager unlocked the door and invited us in. What could we do?? I treated myself to a couple of jackets that are beautifully made........and will serve as a reminder of a wonderful little vacation. Stay tuned for part 2.........LA

Pastel Girl goes to LA!!!!

2008-01-09T14:54:00.000-08:00

I am excitedly preparing for my upcoming WEST COAST TOUR!!! The plan was hatched in my studio last Summer when my cousin, Julie, her husband, Paul and their beautiful boy, Flynn all came to visit from Santa Monica, CA. Julie, who I would LOVE to hire as my director of marketing, thought it would be fun to have a little opening reception to introduce my work to her friends in her new home. At first, just the work was going to make the trip to Cali. Then she decided I actually needed to be there to, well, schmooze. (When in LA......) THEN a dear friend of mine, living in Huntington Beach also graciously offered to hold a soiree. So I will be busy with back openings, but it should be a lot of fun. I also hope to do a little touring around and visiting with relatives while there. I have been sorting through the work and getting it packed up and ready to go……….

three steps to guarantee your popularity

2008-01-06T11:39:00.000-08:00

1. Move to New Hampshire (preferably a fabulous city like Portsmouth)
2. Register as an independent
3. Wait for Primary season.

It has been an exciting time to be a New Hampshire resident. Candidates have been visiting the area for months! From the planned, well-orchestrated rally, to the spontaneous coffee shop appearance, the candidates and their staff are working hard for the chance to get their message out and win your vote. My phone has been ringing off the hook!!!! I have had the privilege of attending several such events. I love that many of us are able to listen to several candidates and discuss the pros and cons of each with our neighbors as we make our way toward a final choice.

more from the button factory

2007-12-12T16:13:00.000-08:00

Wow. Can't believe it has taken me so long to follow up on some of the art I enjoyed at this year's Button Factory open studio. Admittedly my time there was TOO short, but I did get to the studio of Jen Benn, the reigning queen of technology paintings. How does one make circuit boards look beautiful? Always richly painted, Jen's canvases are filled with wonderful patterns. I could see sections being reproduced as fabrics. And this year she introduced some intricate patterns representing DNA. Jen likes to work on large canvases, but I heard a rumor that she might work on a series of smaller works. Stay tuned.......
AND, as always, Tim Gaudreau had some a provocative works aimed at raising awareness of environmental concerns. Previous projects have included a Lost and Found series which more or less viewed discarded litter as it might be seen through the eyes of someone visiting our planet for the first time. Tim's Self- Portrait Through Trash show won him national recognition. And this latest group of photo collages assembled in a cross formation, depict packaging,(ultimately trash) made necessary by our increasing desire for convenience, as modern day idols. In all of these projects, Tim manages to awaken an awareness regarding serious environmental issues, without really preaching. I think this is a much more effective means of getting his audience to examine their own behaviors and perhaps make modifications which will benefit the planet. It's important work.

only show your hands to this woman if you can handle the truth!!

2007-12-04T16:02:00.000-08:00

I briefly attended the open studios at the Button Factory this weekend. More about the art in a bit, but FIRST I must tell you about a fascinating hand reading I had done at Tim Gaudreau's studio. Tim's wife, Atlanta is a certified hand analyst. She examines your hand shape, line formations and fingerprints to tell you some things about yourself; your strengths and weaknesses, your journey, the stumbling blocks and how you might overcome them. Now when Tim first sent out the email about hand readings I thought of it as a fun, quirky kind of thing. But almost as soon as she took a look at these working hands of mine, she started telling me all kinds of things about myself which I KNOW to be true. And some other things I have really been thinking about the past couple of days. It was amazing! I had just the brief ten minute reading, but I hope to have her do the full hour reading at some point. Atlanta does not yet have website, but I'm sure you could contact her through Tim's. I would highly recommend it!

Thanksgiving already???

2007-11-20T13:18:00.000-08:00

WOW. I mean I know it's a little early this year, but it feels more like a month early! It has been a busy Fall and deceptively warm.......until the SNOW today! I hope you are all able to enjoy a relaxing (at least for we, the non-cooks) Thanksgiving with family and friends. You have to love a holiday that is just about eating and visiting! And this weekend if you are looking for a "non-mall" alternative to kicking off your holiday shopping, please come to Art on the Hill, an open studio at 78 Government Street in Kittery, ME. The event takes place on Sat and Sun (Nov 24th & 25th) I will be there along with nearly 30 artist and crafts people. So there should be a wonderful mix of work. I plan to bring a number of original pastels, large and small, representational and abstract......AND my new shipment of calendars. It would be great to see you! OH, and I almost forgot to mention, we will have some delicious appetizers on Saturday afternoon, courtesy of personal chef, Joyce Amorim.

Magical Mexico in Portsmouth

2007-11-13T17:33:00.000-08:00

While gallery sitting this afternoon at Three Graces Gallery, I was surrounded by the beautiful, colorful works of Santiago Martinez from Oaxaca, Mexico. Even as they reference reality; the figure, a studio, nature, the paintings also have a fantastical quality. Each compositional element is included intentionally, beautifully, while much is eliminated. It it a luminous and enchanting world, one well worth visiting if you are able. The show is up through November 25th.

acrylic painting class

2007-10-23T11:05:00.000-07:00

I recently started an acrylic painting class at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education, shocking, I know as I am pastel-girl. Having worked with pastels for so many years, this new exploration has been challenging, but it is my expectation that working in another medium will open up some new avenues creatively and for my business. SO......with all that in mind, I registered for a class which meets two days per week with teacher extrodinaire, Phil Press. I took drawing with him several years ago and knew he had a teaching style that was constructive without being intrusive. That is to say, he is there to guide you along in your own direction, but does not stand over your shoulder while you work. As an added bonus, the other students in the class are serious about painting and often take time to comment on the work of others in a supportive way. It's a wonderful environment and I already know it will prove very valuable to me going forward. Stay tuned.........

DC tour

2007-10-06T19:27:00.000-07:00

Just got back from a mini-vacation touring Washington DC with my Dad and sister. Kind of embarrassing to admit it was my first time there as an adult. WOW, what a place!! You could easily spend a month checking out all the monuments, museums and government buildings. (And it's all free!!........well, as long as you don't think about the taxes you pay every year.) All the buildings were so large in scale and I really felt the energy of the place. It's where global decisions are made on a daily basis. I also found the people to be very PATIENT with we, the bungling tourists. I will DEFINITELY be visit again before too long........

calendars at the MFA!!

2007-09-29T10:23:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine was recently at the MFA and sent me some photos of my calendar in the store. She took them with the camera on her phone, so they are a little grainy, but STILL...there they are!! I heard from the head of retail that they are selling well. What a thrill for me and a wonderful opportunity to reach a new audience!

calendars are shipping like crazy!!!

2007-09-18T19:48:00.000-07:00

The launch of my first art calendar (2008) has been exciting and has kept me very busy. Tim did a great job on these and the orders through my site have been brisk. The folks at Post Office are getting to know me quite well! Keep those orders pouring in. My shipping manager is ready and waiting!

exhausted assistant

2007-08-26T07:03:00.000-07:00

Occasionally after a working frenzy (which I have been in since about January) I need to take some time to individually clean and re-sort the pastels in my working tray. It can be a tedious process, but necessary. Now my tray is all spiffed up and ready to go for the next project! Lula, my loyal assistant, found the whole thing rather exhausting.

porcelain pot

2007-08-26T06:48:00.000-07:00

This week I was most fortunate to acquire a beautiful porcelain pot from the studio of Tim Christensen-Kirby. Tim begins by either throwing a vessel on the wheel or building it from slab. Once dried, he further refines the shape by filing and sanding. Then it is covered with a black slip into which he inscribes his drawings. Always based in nature, his designs are thoughtfully conceived and executed. Once fired, the design is permanent and the result is a truly unique piece of art.

Hopper

2007-08-20T08:42:00.000-07:00

I FINALLY got myself in to the MFA Hopper show at practically the last hour! I have admired Edward Hopper's work for years, and of course, I have seen some of it in person before. But seeing a retrospective was SO much more informative and satisfying. The man knew composition and light....and color. Some of the paintings just pulled me right over to them and held me there. And standing in front of some of his larger canvases, I had an almost meditative feeling of immersion that I could never experience from a book. Wish I had gone in earlier, so that I could have encouraged you all to check it out. Hopefully, you were way ahead of me!

nahcotta opening

2007-08-11T06:23:00.000-07:00

The opening last night at Nahcotta was really buzzing! I was so happy to see family members and friends who traveled from near and far to support me. It was also wonderful to meet some of the other artists who's work I admire. All in all a great night!

art in embassies exhibition

2007-08-08T09:31:00.000-07:00

I found a HUGE surprise in my mailbox last week. I received several copies of the catalog for the Art in Embassies exhibition in Botswana. (One of my pastels is there on loan.) I was absolutely shocked, thrilled, humbled to see that they used my piece as the image for the cover of the catalog!

calendar in the works

2007-08-03T18:45:00.000-07:00

I am most fortunate to have to have my good friend AND awarding-winning photographer, Tim Gaudreau, working away on my very first art calendar! (2008) Not only is Tim very skilled, but also VERY patient as we collaborate in the proofing process, often using phrases like.........

Help me to better understand what you mean by that.

He is doing a GREAT job. The calendars should be ready in a few weeks' time. I will be sure to let you know!

administrative assistant

2007-08-01T10:08:00.000-07:00

I recently adopted a sweet little kitten from the Merrimack River Feline Rescue ...a wonderful place if you are thinking about bringing home a new family member. Miss Lula has proven most helpful with administrative matters. Mr Max is still thinking things over.

landscape show

2007-08-01T06:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a small preview of some works I will be exhibiting as part of the landscape show at Nahcotta. I am excited to be showing with some wonderful artists at this very hip gallery, right here in my own homwe town!! The show opens on August 8th, so please check it out!