Not Very Consistent

Well, all good intentions, etc. Have been busy with a new part time job and trying to sell my place. Seems like I should have all kinds of extra time but it just doesn't exist. I'm fortunate that I didn't commit myself to a weekly blog.

Anyway...the art summer season wasn't as successful as previous years. It was expected but I would have enjoyed a pleasant surprise instead. One show, which always is my best, continued to be a good one. The others, not so much.

I am still getting commissions for animal portraits and murals, though slower than before. The economy has taken a gigantic bite out of the art market and, thus, the part time job, when I should be retiring. I like to keep active but would rather be traveling throughout the country creating scenic masterpieces. I am thankful that I have a job and one I enjoy.

I've painted a lot this summer but not so much this fall. I am participating in the annual NH Open Doors event, which brings people to local studios and shops. There are 5 other friends/artists joining me for the weekend (Sat./Sun.-Nov. 5-6, 10am-4pm).

In addition, my real estate agent is having an Open House on Sat., Nov. 5 from 12-3. I have lived in the Cider Mill for 31 years and it's time to move into a smaller place. This building is unique in its character and meaning to the people of New Boston, NH and I can only hope that the next owner cherishes its history as much as we have.

I will get back to painting soon and continue my blog then. In the meantime, enjoy life & have a wonderful holiday season.

Eileen

The Bike

It always amazes me what inventive names I come up with for my paintings!

I like detail, which you may have noticed, and have had this idea in my head for awhile. I just wanted to paint something different from the recent scenery I've been working on.

Knowing I have so little time to get ready for my first art show, I opted to paint small works so did several 6x6 and 8x8's. They were fun to do and I used 3" frames to enhance their look.

Getting the mill ready to be shown to potential buyers has been an overwhelming job that doesn't appear to end soon. I've just spread my time and efforts in so many different directions. The art show this weekend in Barnstable, MA will be a welcome rest and give me an opportunity to get out for a change. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate.

#49 6x6 with black frame $95 $75 without

In A One Horse Open Sleigh

I like painting night time winter scenes. It brings out the contrast of snow and sky. The building is actually our Community Church
which is a huge part of the town.

New Boston is the picture perfect New England town. We'll have our tree lighting ceremony shortly with choirs and townspeople singing. It is a beautiful town and my friends are amazed at the friendliness of the people whom they meet.

There was a time, when I first moved here, that you knew most everyone either by sight or acquaintance. Now we've grown to over 5,000 and I am one of the "oldtimers" having lived here over 30 years (tho' not to those born and raised).

I love this town and it's people.

#33 2.5"x3.5" $30

Skating at Parker's Mill

This miniature scene is an old grist mill in my town. So many of the buildings have been kept up

and that is to the credit of its residents. There is great pride for what was old in New Hampshire and I am always amazed at the work that is done to maintain the small town image.

I am very fortunate in this day and age to have such wonderful and caring friends and neighbors. So many "city folk" long for those good old days and I get to experience them.

New Boston, New Hampshire certainly has a special place in my heart.

#32 Miniature 3.5x2.5, matted $30 Sold

Fourth of July

Hope you all have a wonderful July 4th weekend.

My town was voted to have the "Best July 4th Parade" in New Hampshire. It is truly a community effort with a sensational parade complete with floats, bands, clowns and other fun things.

Following the parade is a whole day of activities including a mud volleyball competition, horse pulling &, fiddlers' contests, dancers, karaoke, entertainment for kids and much more. It concludes with a bonfire and fireworks.

New Boston is truly the quintessential New England town with a spirit unmatched in my memory.

The painting I am posting is larger than normal. It depicts a portion of our main street decked out for the July 4th holiday. The entire town has flags flying from every telephone pole.

Again, have a great 4th with family and friends.

#15 11x14 $295

Dockside

This is a familiar scene at lakes throughout the country. It is the best way to experience the "quiet" of a lake. You can hear the loons calling here in New Hampshire.

I don't have many complaints about motor boats as they serve their purpose. It's just a whole different experience in a canoe or kayak as you feel part of the lake and surroundings instead of an intruder.

When I paint, I start with all my darks first and build on them. Shadows vs. light gives your painting the depth necessary to draw a person into the picture. Life can be so hectic so I love to paint peaceful scenes and something that makes you smile within when you pass.

#11 Dockside 5x7 $65 SOLD

Bountiful Garden

Living in New England, there are lots of opportunities to paint barns. The flowers were my main focus but the weathered barn makes a perfect backdrop. I seem to enjoy the detail work even though I say I am going to "loosen up" each time I start a painting.

We've had an unusual week (except that it's New England). It was 94 degrees on Tuesday, 31 degrees that night and now in the 60's.

I am getting ready for our first art show of the season at The Cider Mill Gallery, my home & studio. It will run from May 9 - 17. I have invited several award-winning, local artists to participate and hope that you will have a chance to come visit. Call for directions or information at (603)487-5522.

#7 5x7 $65 sold

March 19, 2009

Weather is turning and signs of spring are in the air. Had six deer in my backyard yesterday. It's hard to photograph them as they blend in so beautifully with the trees and landscape. I'll try.

I'm keeping the paintings spring-like and peaceful. We all deserve it after this winter. Warmer weather is coming.

5x7 on panel: $65 Scene #2

Thursday, March 12, 2009

#1 Riverside

Hi:

Well, today's the first day of my blog. I wanted a place to share the process of my painting so that I could connect more intimately with my customers.

I live in a 1908, post and beam cider mill which also contains my studio and gallery. The gallery will be opening in April on a "by appointment or chance" basis. This is necessary as I participate in regional art shows, enjoy painting on location and travel to paint murals.

I am going to produce a painting a week on a 5x7 panel. Each painting costs $65, including shipping. You can email me at ebelangerart@msn.com to reserve the painting. I take MC & Visa.

This week's painting depicts a typical New England scene. I am fortunate to have a wealth of inspiration in my own back yard.

Hopefully, I will get more proficient at blogging as time passes. Be patient with me.

Eileen