The Garden Shed

Some days you are out painting and nothing strikes your creative interest. I was on a garden tour and just about every plant was past it's prime. Guess the season had been affected because of all the early rain.

Anyway, I came upon this garden shed, which still had remnants of flowers that were just past their prime. It was an inviting scene so I just used my artist's license to capture the garden in full bloom.

The art show in Keene went well for my first time participating. I sold 3 paintings and met a lot of interested people with great feedback on my work. We had beautiful weather and a good turnout.

I know I missed last week but it was just impossible to meet all my obligations and I apologize for not posting a new piece of work. I'll do better in the future.

#24 5x7 $65 sold

Labor of Love

It's been a long, hot week and I have not been able to crank up my creative juices. I thought I'd post one of my favorite paintings. I have done several versions of this subject, the original which was the actual flowers in my neighbors garden. I have changed the flowers in each painting and added a gate to this one. I just like the layout.

The painting is large but the size fit the subject matter and makes a strong statement. It captures my desire to create drama with shadows and light. Since fall is fast approaching, I wanted to linger on summer's bounty.

24x36 $795

Lupines at Sugar Hill

The lupines were in full bloom up north and we found several sites that appealed to us. This field was covered with lupines in various shades of purples and pinks.
The day was pretty gloomy early on but the sun came out in the afternoon. We're glad we decided to make the trip.
It's always a challenge to capture a field of flowers. My "safety" zone is lots of detail, which isn't necessary for this type of painting.
I am trying various techniques to soften some of my landscapes so that I don't agonize over minutia.

#13 5x7 $65.

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