Bleeker Books

10x12 oil on panel
Available at Tidewater Gallery

I'm back home after a too quick trip to the NC coast. The opening reception for "Vignettes" was delightful. My heartfelt thanks to Ray and Jan for hosting and for all their work preparing the show. I'm so grateful to have such good people to work with. It was really nice to meet new friends like Sue, Judy, Dan and Eileen - and to see my "old" friend Whitney who came to visit with me. That's her checking out my work below!

The gallery has just the most amazing collection of work - I would have gladly taken home many many items if I could have. If you are anywhere in the area, you really should visit.

The area itself is just beautiful. I've always loved the coast and I look forward to being able to return someday soon. Now, its officially summer for me! Time for R&R!

Leafing Through

6x8 oil on panel
PURCHASE

Still attracted to scenes with readers right now. Maybe because its cold and what better way to spend a cold afternoon than perusing books? I love bookstores. I am amazed at the unbelievable amount of knowledge and creativity in the world. I think the idea of an electronic reader is nice for some situations, but nothing beats the feel of a real book, and what if you like to read in the bath?

This painting was done on Friday - still trying to loosen up. Back to work today. Better open the blinds in my studio though... its much too dark and depressing in here now. Kinda cold and depressing outside too.

Note: I am going to put more of my items on ETSY. Its the neatest shopping site - all handmade goods. The link above takes you there. I think you have to register to shop there, but its such a great store, you won't regret it.

Study Hall

12x8 oil on linen

Thanks for all your well wishes. Maybe the good karma is working. I had more success today. It still wasn't coming easy, but then nothing worthwhile does. Or so we are told. Sometimes it does though.
Anyway- some of you brought a smile to my face and others made me laugh out loud. Like Dennis Dame who wrote that some panels are just "crash test dummies."
I liked his suggestion to not wipe it but to keep going. Perhaps I think things should come too easily!
I did start anew actually - twice - determined to make this scene work. And I am happy with my final results. I found inspiration in looking at Quang Ho's website. He's brilliant. I really want his videos. I don't recommend looking at too many other artist's work though when you are blocked. I find that I begin to loose my own voice and forget how to apply the paint in the way that comes natural to me.

The crash test is below. I had started to scrape it... but didn't. Might be a good reminder to sit around silently telling me "DON'T do it like this again!" There is just one spot I like... her leg/jeans. Strange, huh?

Bleeker Bookshop

6x8 oil on panel - sold
Ask Castle Gallery about this painting.



From a corner book store in the West Village. They set tables outside on the sidewalks for people to browse. I rather got distracted from painting by all the books. I do love to lose myself browsing among all the wonderful and inspiring written words. I have this desire to paint books. The covers themselves can be so interesting, but I suppose its already been done...

My theme here seems to be aimed at cozying down rather than painting and then packing for our trip.