September 30, 30 in 30

Day #29 & #30, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

This one actually took me 3 days. I can't believe we're to day 30 already.This was one of the easier 30 in 30's for me. That's because I paint in my studio 5 days a week. I look forward to posting more paintings in the future. Now that my illustrations are done I can devote more time to commissions and paintings. There's a ton of paintings I still want to do.

Orange Orchids

Alcohol Ink and Pen

11" x 14"

$185 + S&H

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September 28,30 in 30

Day #28, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

The summer is over. That went fast. Time to slow down and look back.

In Northern Wisconsin, there are two lakes dear to my heart. They are call The Twins Lakes. One is much bigger than the other, they don't have much in common except they are connected to each other. The place they join is a shallow ... sandbar possibly? I'm not sure how to describe it. Anyway, the land comes to a point where it meets the channel between the lakes. So, it's called "the point". I walk down to the point each summer with family or friends dragging a small boat to collect stones or driftwood found along the way.

 I like to tell the history of the land we are passing; how Julius logged the area. He delivered the mail to the ends of docks using a  kayak. First he sold some land to the Well's who built the house we stay in today. But he was so unhappy at how mean Mrs. Wells was that he refused to sell anymore land to anyone. Loraine and George Doerfler went Up North for almost ten years getting to know Julius before he agreed to sell them some land. When he did, they built their own cabin. Loraine went up North well into her 90's and became one of my mother's best friends. She lived to 105. Her son and daughter in law live there today during the warmer months of the year.

Today's painting is from the other side of the point on South Twin. It's a charming boat house that's full of personality.

The Other Side of the Point

Alcohol Ink and Pen

8" x 10"

$105 + S&H

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September 27, 30 in 30

Day # 27, 30 paintings in 30 day
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

I had to leave the house a bid earlier than usual yesterday so I didn't get to post this one. Thanks to my daughter, Sam for the photograph that I used.

In the Rays of the Sun

Alcohol Ink and Pen 

8" x 10"

$105 + S&H

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September 26,30 in 30

Day #26. 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Yesterday, I spent a wonderful afternoon at Womanspace of Rockford with a alcohol ink sampler class. The grounds of Womanspace are just stunning. It's the perfect setting for the New Dimensions Studio. You just feel more peaceful by just being there.

I had three very talented women in my class, two who were totally new to alcohol inks. They did such a great job and I think pumpkins are a great subject. They really allow you to play with the inks and see what they can do.

Three Pumpkins

Alcohol Ink and Pen on Yupo

8" x 10"

$105 + S&H

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September 25, 30 in 30

Day #25, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

I may come back and change this a bit. I'm not sure . It's one of those must live with it awhile and decide.

Foxglove

Alcohol Ink and Pen

8" x 10"

$105 + S&H

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September 24, 30 in 30

Day #24, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

This is a photo that my daughter, Samantha, took and allowed me to use. Thanks Sam.

Taking in the Rays

Alcohol Ink and Pen

9.5" x 14"

$165 + S&H

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September 23, 30 in 30

Day # 23, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

We had a great painting party at Sue's house last night. What fun!

Harvest Pumpkins

Alcohol Ink and Pen on Canvas

8" x 8"

$65 + S & H

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September 22, 30 in 30

Day #22, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Working on cards today. This is from a FB friend who sent in her pup when I requested some ideas for Christmas cards. This cutie seems more like an everyday card to me. Glad to have be able to paint this one. Still working on the Christmas pup.

Alcohol Ink and Pen

8" x 10"

Not For Sale

September 21, 30 in 30

Day 21, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Every year the Rockford Art Guild does a show at the Nicholas Conservatory. Over the years I have collected quite a bit of photos if its flowers. This is one.

Bird of Paradise

Alcohol Ink & Pen

8" x 10"

$125 + S&H

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September 20, 30 on 30

Day 20, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

I've been wanting to learn some mixed media techniques for awhile now. My home studio has bags of broken jewelry and wooden boxes that I've collected for the day that I do college. So when it took almost the entire day to get the gallery back together after tearing it apart for the show at Greenwich, it was a treat to end the day across the street in a mixed media class with friends. It was interesting, I choose some paper and colors that I liked bu,t soon got into painting too heavy and not really liking my project. The instructor kept on telling us to trust the process. I liked the way you're never "stuck " with anything, the painting can always change. Layers are good.

I also enjoyed watching how another instructor worked. What do I steal for my own classes? Well, the little boxes which held the brushes, pencils and pens were wonderful... gotta get some of those. They  kept all the supplies in order so we weren't loosing things as we worked. I loved the way Tabitha had the paintings organized, easy to see, easy to grab, and easy to store. She also gave out a lot of information about the supplies and what you could do with them as we worked. I walked away happy. Not only did I get to spend some time with friends and learn a few things, I got a painting for the 30 in 30.

My theme? Halloween of course.

8" x 8"
Mixed Media on Wood Pannel

September 19, 30 in 30

Day #19, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

I was able to paint this at the art show this weekend. It feels good to be going back to the studio after being gone for four days.

Lilly Pads

8" x 10"

Alcohol Ink and Pen

$105 + S&H

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September 18, 30 in 30

Day # 18, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Felling so very blessed for all my friends and family.

Okay... now I'm tired. I had such a great time at Greenwich Village Art Fair this weekend. I feel so blessed to be so supported by loving family and friends. How lucky am I do be doing what I love surrounded by such wonderful loving and creative people. I can't thank everyone enough for this weekend. I was thinking last night, even if I never make any money at this fair I will still have to go every year just to keep in touch with the community. I was humbled by the people who knew me through Facebook and the newsletter etc. Thank you. I may not see you everyday but I know that you are there and it fuels my soul. Thank you for the many purchases so that I may pay some bills, buy some supplies and keep doing it everyday. Thank you for the hours setting up, taking down dropping off... Thank you for the pizza, the drinks, the company. I'm so sorry I didn't get a chance to talk to everyone. (Therese and Greg I'm sorry I didn't get to spend time with you. Thanks you for stopping in.) Thank you for those who are far away and still support me by liking my posts and leaving my encouraging comments. I felt your presence.

Two things stick out....
      1.      Boy, are there a lot of extremely talented people out there. I always feel so in awe of the other artists and am inspired to go home do more and push harder.
      2.      There are young kids out there who come to Greenwich with their allowance in hand. They are looking at the art. I am impressed every time a young person buys a matted card for $6 or a small canvas for $15. These people are the future of art. They may see the cute stuffed cat around the corner but they are truly drawn to the brushstrokes, colors and textures.

Okay I lied three things...

I am also impressed by the young emerging artists I meet. They are in high school trying to figure out their future path. They ask me what they can do now to help their career. I tell them to share it on the internet. We all want to know what they are doing. Sometimes I can't refrain from saying," Damn, girl you're far more talented than I am." They are... they are out there, and they are good.

The future of art is safe in the hands of the youth. And it warms my soul.

So here's today's offering. A plate I finished painting for the fair. 

September 16, 30 in 30

Day #16, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

I have been working on a little project for a few months now. It's the first time I've done illustrations of this sort and it's been a lot of fun. So while I'm at Greenwich Village Art Fair I thought it would be fun to give you a sneak peak of my project.

More tomorrow.

September 17, 30 in 30

Day #17, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Having a great time at Greenwich Village Art Fair. Here's part two of the sneak peak I promised.

More info in a few months.

September 15, 30 in 30

Day #15, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

I first went  up to the north woods of Wisconsin
when I was 10 years old.
I remember the impact the place had on me, even at such a young age. I didn't want to leave. As luck would have it, my parents also fell in love with the area and bought a summer home on South Twin Lake. My family has been enjoying the place for decades. This summer I was able to share the area with two groups of artists. It was wonderful to be able to share a place so dear with friends. I spend most of my time marveling at nature but sometimes people make incredible sights too. Today's painting is from the outside of the antique shop in Eagle River. What an excitement for the eyes! The colors, textures and theme are a delight to see.

At The Antiques Store

8" x 10"

Alcohol Ink and Pen on Yupo

$210 + S&H

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September 14, 30 in 30

Day 14, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Today is a piece I painted for the Greenwich Village Art Show which takes place this weekend. It's been awhile since I've been in an Art Fair, June in fact. Lots to do.

Iris on Canvas

Alcohol Ink and Pen

7" x 5" x 3" Framed

$49 + S&H

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September 13, 30 in 30

Day 13, 30 painting in 30 day
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

I think some paintings have a life of their own. They let you know when they're done. Sometimes they aren't ready and they need to be put away for awhile. Sometimes they get forgotten.

Today's work is such a painting. Over a year ago I was inspired by a technique I found in a watercolor magazine. I liked it but I just wasn't quite ready to finish it and I moved on. Recently, a friend of mine went to Florence and through her phone was able to share her trip with me as it unfolded. What a thrill it is to see real time videos of the music and happenings of Piazza della Signoria!  It brought the trip my husband and I took several years ago back to mind. And as I walked into my studio one day, there it was. This painting waiting for the right time. Waiting to be penned. I wasn't even sure if I could find the photograph that was used for the painting. But there it was, patiently waiting, in my store of photos under Europe.

So today's painting was several years in the making but I am so grateful to it. With it, I was able to travel back to the banks of the Arno on an evening Mark and I enjoyed a walkabout. On top of the hill you can see a bit of Piazzale Michelangelo.

Florence, Along the Arno

Watercolor on heavy Watercolor Paper

11.5" x 17.75"

$155 + S&H

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September 12, 30 in 30

Day 12, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

As I stated yesterday, I'm working on this year's Halloween design. I'm not there. Sometimes it just takes awhile. I think I know where to go from here. And this just isn't it.

Halloween 1

8" x 10"

Alcohol Ink and pen on Canvas

Not For Sale

September 11, 30 in 30

Day 11 of 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

I'm always looking for new ideas for classes. With Halloween around the corner I have been playing with some ideas. The first is an image from a vintage postcard. If it worked well as something to teach others I would change the image quite a bit to make it something that could be be done by many people quickly.

I have a few vintage paintings that I like to put up around Halloween as decorations. I will add this one to the collection. The girl looks like a college roommate of mine. It makes me like it all the more.

Mary And Toby

10" x 8"

Alcohol Ink and Pen

Not For Sale

September 10, 30 in 30

Day 10 of 30 paintings in 30 days,
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

As hurricane Irma approaches the west cost of Florida our prayers are with everyone who is effected by this terrible storm. I've never been to Florida. The closest I've gotten is Savannah Georgia. After all the people there is too worry about... then, there are these beautiful historic buildings which are an important part of our history.

Today's painting is from the Historic River Street of Savannah, Georgia where the views are eye candy. It's a place to take in the sights, sounds and smells of the area. It's a great place to people watch. I'm glad it is not in Irma's direct path, but then to say that means that somewhere else is.

So today's post is with the hope that Irma looses strength quickly and that all in her path are safe.

The Black Dog

8" x 10"

Alcohol Inks on Yupo Paper

$165 + S&H

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September 9, 30 in 30

Day 9, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

In prep for Greenwich Village Art Show I offer a small sunflower.

 Small Sunflower

6" x6"

Alcohol Ink on Gallery Wrapped Canvas

$49 + S&H 

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September 8, 30 in 30

Day 8, 30 paintings in 30 days
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Some days you just don't have it. Sometimes you just have to scrap it. This is becoming more difficult for me as I grow in business. I wish it weren't the case. But as my art business grows so do the demands to produce and earn more money to pay the higher bills. Air conditioning, track lighting etc are all new things my company is purchasing. My creativity can become a production line; get this commission done, paint more for the show. Even doing the 30 in 30 is stressful; produce and make sure it's not crummy.

But the truth is there are times when it is crummy. Accept it, learn whatever your supposed to learn and move on. Today's painting was supposed to be a wedding gift for a man I've known since before he was born. I wanted to give him and his fiancee something special. It didn't work out. I had to resort to plan B, give them something else.

I feel reluctant to post this, and maybe a few others that I've posted that aren't my best. That's my ego I suppose. Anyway, it happens. Some days the art muse doesn't show up. Luckily, I can say I almost always enjoy the process whatever the outcome.

As Julia Child once said,

" NEVER APOLOGIZE!"

So here it is....

The Journey

11" x 14"

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

Not for Sale

September 7,30 in 30

Day 7, 30 paintings in 30 days
 hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Today's piece comes from a project with the Rockford Art Guild. I have been a member of the guild for about 4 years. I joined shortly after I left my job to start painting daily. I thought I would need the socialization.

What I found was so much more. Our group of 50 members is an eclectic group of people of various mediums and ages. Not only did I meet some incredible people who I consider very good friends, but I learned a lot. That's the value of a guild, the sharing of experiences, the opportunities to try new things surrounded by people who are willing to guide you. Now that I have a bit of experience I hope that I can help others achieve their dreams.

The puzzle project, is a group project with hope as it's theme. There were about 30 pieces which were painted or drawn on by various guild members. There was some variety too; two people carved wood, one attached glass beads and one attached mosaic pieces. The pieces will be put together and given to the local cancer center.

I painted sunflowers on my piece. Big surprise? But I feel they are very cheerful and hopeful. and you know I love them.

Hope

5" x 7"

Alcohol Ink on Heavy Foam Core Board

Not for Sale

September 6, 30 in 30

Day 6, 30 paintings in 30 days,
 hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Today, our first grandcat, Tucker. He has quite a personality. He acts more like a dog in that he loves to snuggle up and be pet, and he comes when he's called. He and Cooper, my dog, are best friends.

Tucker

12" x 9"

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

Nor For Sale

September 5, 30 in 30

Day #5 of 30 paintings in 30 days 
hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Some people look forward and celebrate each grandchild as they come along. My family is not quite there yet. We celebrate the "grandcats" and inquire as to their well being etc. just as if they were little ones.

I surely understand how these pets become a part of the family. We were devastated when we lost our tuxedo cat of 19 years. We had been a family more years with her than without, when she died. I felt a lot of gratitude towards her for helping me raise my girls. My oldest had very curly hair and sometimes brushing her hair brought on tears. Kat-Kat, named by our three year old at the time, was always aware of Sam's feelings and would climb into her lap to comfort her as I finished brushing. Kat Kat was always sensitive to both girl's tears. Sometimes she'd comfort them after they were sent to their rooms. I was always grateful to have her there giving the loving that I couldn't give at the time of being the disciplinarian.

We currently have 4 grand cats. This is our newest who just joined the family a few weeks ago.

Arlo

8" x 10"

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

Not For Sale

September 4, 30 in 30

Day 4 of the 30 paintings in 30 days 

hosted by Leslie Saeta.

Still admiring the bins at Edward's Apple Orchid.

Gourds at Edward's

8" x 10"

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

$105

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September 3rd, 30 in 30

Day 3, 30 in 30 hosted by Leslie Satea.

Fall is my favorite season. 
Although, I do have to admit to dreading the approach of winter. But as I get older I'm liking winter more and more. I like the slowness of winter. There are by far less social obligations. It's a great time for doing two things I love best: painting and reading.

But back to Fall...
I adore pumpkins. I think they are incredibly pleasing in color and shape. I can't get enough of them. So when Edward's Apple Orchard opens at the end of each August I look forward to going and seeing the profusion of Fall colors and smells, and apple donuts. Don't forget the donuts.

This is one of many pumpkin bins

 you'll find at Edward's.

They have the white pumpkins and the Cinderella pumpkins etc.
 But give me a plain old pumpkin any day.

Pumpkins at Edward's

8" x 10"

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

$105 + S&H

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September 2nd, 30 in 30

Day 2 of the 30 in 30 hosted by Leslie Saeta.

I love the black eyed Susans in the garden and the splash of color they provide.

Black Eyed Susans

8" x 10"

Alcohol Ink on Canvas

$65

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September 1st, 30 in 30

Day 1 of the 30 in 30 hosted by Leslie Seata.

A lot of people choose themes for the 30 in 30. I don't like limiting myself that way.  Most of my paintings are from photographs I've taken. I have piles upon piles of photos I've taken in the yard, or on trips, etc. I always see the 30 in 30 as a way of getting to some of those photos. By the time another 30 in 30 rolls around there is always a ton paintings waiting to happen.

This was a commission. I had this painting that a client liked but she didn't want so much red and blue so I was able to work with her to do this painting.

Sunflowers for Judi

11" x 14" 

Alcohol Inks on Yupo

Not For Sale

I'm looking forward to the challenge of the month and the approach of my favorite season, Fall.

Follow this month's progress here.