The Center of Town

I worked on this painting as a commission for someone who grew up in the area. We all get nostalgic about our roots from time to time. I am still connected to friends that shared a playpen with me.

With all the focus these days being on material possessions and the spoiling of the children, it's nice to think back to a simpler time when family and moral values were paramount. I don't know where we are headed as a nation but things are not looking good. I shouldn't use this blog as a soapbox but it is a place to express your thoughts.

I've been trying to take my paintings into a more colorful place. I've always used color in my art but want to step it up a bit. I have graduated to a larger brush so that my strokes are not so clearly defined. I have to admit I went kicking and screaming to the larger brush. I have always been detail oriented.

#48

The Blacksmith Shop

With all the snow, I decided to paint something warm and inviting. I paint a lot at Musterfield Farm in No. Sutton, NH. This building is used as their blacksmith shop. It was a sunny day and light breeze...ideal for painting as it kept the bugs away.

Painting plein air is always a challenge with the elements. I have painted in sun, rain and snow. Each offers a unique perspective on the world with the various atmospheric changes. I would recommend painting on location for any new or would-be artists. Photos just can't do the site justice. This painting is from a photo but I have spent many days at the farm. I am trying to introduce more color into my paintings.

#47 11x14 $295

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