art is essential

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

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

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

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!!!!

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

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

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.