Ann Gorbett Palette Knife Painting

Renoir redos

2012-02-19T12:00:00.007-05:00

Remember the Renoir commissions that mysteriously disappeared in the mail? Well, they never resurfaced so I painted them again. I debated over whether I should use the ones I painted last time as reference or use the print outs I had of the original Renoirs. I opted to look at the original paintings. I knew they wouldn't be exactly the same, but at least I was starting at the same point. I was happy with how they came out and my customer is happy too. I am now an expert at every detail in these paintings. I need to go to the MFA soon and see the real ones in person.

Cocktail hour in Provincetown

2012-02-15T22:00:00.001-05:00

Cocktail Hour in Provincetown

8" x 8" x 1.5"

oil with a palette knife on cradled panel

This was our view while sipping martinis from Faneezi's in Provincetown during my birthday weekend. The light was just incredible. The locals seemed to think-"oh yeah, it's like this all the time." But I was snapping away with my camera as the light kept changing.

And here are a couple of chunky delicious close ups.

Family Beach Day, Jacksonville 1966

2012-02-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

Family Beach Day, Jacksonville, 1966

Oil with a palette knife on cradled panel

18" x 18" x 1.5"

Today is my middle sister's birthday so I thought this would be an appropriate painting to post for today. That's her in the white two piece. I just love her pose-such a sun worshipper,

I painted this last weekend while working at the Artist's Studio and Gallery at Patriot Place. My uncle recently sent me the photo taken in Jacksonville Florida. That little shy one on the left is me. I thought this photo has such a classic feel to it and I remember that red wool blanket well. It appears in many of our family's photos from that time.

I've included a couple of progress shots I took along the way.

This was such fun to paint at this size. I taped off the edges so that I'd have a clean white border around the image in the end. As a finishing touch, I will be adding the date in the border as old snapshots of that time often had.

I think if I keep painting beach scenes, summer will be here before I know it.

Mini Boston paintings

2012-02-06T13:48:00.005-05:00

I thought it would be funny to show these 3 mini Boston paintings in scale with something small so I photographed them with the penny. I am excited to see how these will look framed up and ready to sell. Cheers!

Getaway to Provincetown

2012-02-01T19:24:00.013-05:00

This past weekend we took a getaway trip up to Provincetown, the very tip of Cape Cod. During the summer, Ptown is full of crazy activity but in the winter, it is quiet and wonderful. What an inspirational place to be for an artist. I've include some shots here to give you a flavor.

I loved this sign that was outside a gallery near the beach.

There are art galleries everywhere you turn. And I turned to see Polo in the window reflection of one.

Only in Ptown might you see a Christmas Tree like this made from lobster traps and buoys.

This harbor is probably filled with boats in the summertime.

We loved looking at the fishing boats.

The very photogenic Red Inn.

Cutesy store.

Another cutesy store.

The dunes had a very Southwestern feel about them.

This is the street where we were staying. A view to the ocean at the end.

Cutesy houses everywhere you turn.

Amazing sunset glows

Have you heard about all the dolphins beaching themselves? We happened upon one poor guy who had already been tagged. So sad.

On our way home we stopped in Hyannisport and had a car picnic. This was our view.

Great trip and wonderful way to celebrate my 50th (gulp) year on earth.

Sarah's blog post

2012-01-31T10:03:00.005-05:00

Just a quick update on my last post. Sarah was so kind to post my latest painting on her blog, called Unshoveling The Past, along with some inspiring words. I now know the location, year, and a little more background on her photo.

Check it out!

Thinking of summer already

2012-01-23T09:11:00.005-05:00

Beach Buds

18" x 18" x1.5"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled artist board

This painting was inspired by a photo I saw on a friend's Facebook wall. I hadn't painted any family photos in awhile and I thought this one was just too much fun to pass up. It's bigger than my usual size but I left the white border around the edges so I go back in later to paint in the date.

Sarah-if you are reading this, do you know what year this would have been? And thanks for letting me paint this cute picture.

My uncle sent me some great old family beach photos too. I think I feel a series coming on. And hopefully it will get me through the winter.

Just a couple of crazy cats

2012-01-17T14:10:00.005-05:00

Crazy Cat

Approx 4" by 4"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

Window Perch

Approx 5" by 6"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

Just a couple a quick crazy cat painting done during class last week. Have a nice day everyone. Now go hug your cat.

Wild Things on exhibit

2012-01-08T12:52:00.012-05:00

Saturday evening was the opening reception for "Wild Things". The caliber of art work was really impressive, the Cotuit Center for the Arts venue was so enjoyable, and the organizers of the show did an amazing job. Here I am with my trio of "wild thing."

Each piece had a write up from the artist as well as QR codes that take you to the artist's websites and galleries. Cool.

When you walk into the center, it's open and bright with real sails hanging from the ceiling. Cool again.

It's fun to see your name so big:

On the other side of the center, they had a performance by a local drummers and dancers. Wonderful.

Below are some of my and Polo's favorite pieces from the show. Looking at them now, I see that we really gravitated towards the more dimentional pieces. I've been having an urge to try some new materials and these pieces provided me with lots of inspiration:

This last piece is called Contemplating Freedom. A beautiful painting.

And a great evening all around.

Mysterious disappearance

2012-01-04T16:38:00.004-05:00

I was debating whether or not to post this, but perhaps the right person may see it.

The two Renoir commissioned paintings from my previous post never made it to their new home. The paintings were mailed over the holidays and when the box arrived at its destination, it had been opened and was empty.

Is that bizarre or what? Luckily the box was insured, but still very, very bizarre. And I have a very disappointed customer.

So if you happen to see anyone trying to sell some Renoir knock offs out there, can you let me know?

Romance is in the air

2011-12-30T08:00:00.008-05:00

After Renoir's Dance at the Bougival

12" by 6"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

After Renoir's Grand Canal, Venice
9" by 12"
Oil with a palette knife on canvas

I had so much fun painting my mini masters ornament series that I was thrilled when someone saw my work at Custom Art Framing and Gallery 9 and asked if I would paint two small Renoirs on commission. She saw these two paintings at the MFA in Boston and it sparked an idea to give them as a thank you gift in return for a trip to Italy that her friend planned for them next week. Nice!

Today also marks Polo and my 10th wedding anniversary so romance is definitely in the air!

Christmas Commission

2011-12-28T08:00:00.002-05:00

Maproom Cafe at the BPL

8" by 8" by 1.5"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled panel

A friend saw a larger version of this painting of mine at an art exhibit and asked if I would paint a smaller one to give as a Christmas gift to her friend. This was a really interesting exercise in that I was able to paint this really quickly due to the fact that I had already painted it larger. The knife strokes came quicker and felt more confident because I already knew where I was going. Click here to see te larger version I did a few months back.

Merry Christmas one and all

2011-12-25T08:00:00.002-05:00

I wish for everyone a happy and joyful holiday.

Hot cocoa

2011-12-18T21:00:00.002-05:00

On a cold day like this, doesn't a cup of hot cocoa with marshmallows sound nice?

Just for you

2011-12-15T09:16:00.003-05:00

Just for you

6" x 6"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

In my last post I mentioned that I really didn't care for the crowded malls and gift giving pressure of the holidays. But as much as a dislike the shopping, I love the wrapping. It's my favorite part. I am somewhat of a hoarder when it comes to ribbons, bags, and do dads that can be added to packages to make them more festive. I love using what I already have and recycling (or regifting?) things on packages. Ask my friends Carol and Danielle who I made take a gift wrapping seminar with me a few years back. Yes-that's right, a seminar! What a blast.

Decorating for the holidays

2011-12-11T13:00:00.004-05:00

These Three Stars

3" by 4"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

A tiny challenge in neutral colors.

This weekend we finally are able to decorate the house for Christmas. Tree...check, stockings...check, wreathe...check. I am actually in the spirit already which is unusual. I just really hate the crowds and the malls. I just wish there wasn't that buying and gift giving pressure every year. The holidays would be just fine without it in my opinion.

Christmas Cookies

2011-12-08T16:55:00.002-05:00

Just for fun-Christmas cookies!! No calories, no fat. Have one.

A family of palette knife portraits

2011-12-03T08:00:00.004-05:00

Brian, Patrick, Erin, and Cathleen

Each 3" by 3"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

My cousin Shelley asked me to paint portraits of her kids as a gift to her husband for their 30th wedding anniversary. I found this frame that had a mat with four cut opening each measuring 3" square so I used that as my inspiration to tie them all together.

Here are close ups of each portrait:

Erin

Cathleen

Patrick

Brian

Larger Work: A Boston Perspective

2011-11-28T10:28:00.008-05:00

A Boston Perspective

36" x 24" x 2"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled artist board

Polo and I are getting ready for our show that opens this Friday at Gallery 9 in Norwood. I wanted to include at least one large piece so I chose this Boston view to try. These larger pieces are quite the undertaking and this view in particular was a perspective challenge to say the least. As I look at it now, I can see several things that still aren't quite right, but I'm hoping that it's still believable and unmistakably Boston. That was my goal. Can you identify the street corner that this painting captures?

This painting took several days to complete. I took this photo below after day 1 to show you the painting in process which I think is interesting to see.

I am always amazed at how much time the "finishing" work takes when preparing for a show. The varnishing, framing, wiring, signing, pricing, etc... Lots to think about and finalize, but come Friday-we'll be ready!

Wild Things: I'm on a roll!

2011-11-22T14:30:00.000-05:00

Purr...meow...roar!

This trio was just juried into a show called "Wild Things" at the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod. The show will be at the Cotuit Center for the Arts in Cotuit MA from January 6-February 10. I thought this was and interesting twist:

Keeping younger patrons in mind, art work will be displayed at a lower height throughout the exhibit - right at children’s eye level. A series of child-friendly events are scheduled over the course of the month. School groups will be welcomed to the exhibit for free for the duration of the show, and will be given docent-led tours and art instruction customized to the age level of the children.

Fun stuff.

The next batch to get framed up

2011-11-20T09:15:00.000-05:00

Mini Manet

2.5" x 3.5"

Mini Manet

2.5" x 3.5

Mini Sargent

2.5" x 3.5

I've ordered some more mini frames and as soon as they arrive, these three will get framed up and go on sale!

The Stepsisters are in the finals

2011-11-18T09:51:00.003-05:00

Back Bay Stepsisters

8" x 8"

Oil

I was notified this week that this painting of mine was selected as a finalist in the Richeson 75 International Small Works Show. How exciting. There will be a reception in Wisconsin on February 6, but all of the finalists will also be posted in an online exhibit running from February 6-March 30, 2012. Can't wait to see the winners!

2011 Mini Masters ornament collection

2011-11-08T22:53:00.003-05:00

Boit Daughter 1
2.5" by 2.5"

Framed with black hanging ribbon

$65 plus shipping

PREVIEW 2011 Mini Masters ornament collection

2011-11-06T18:04:00.003-05:00

The Boit daughters collection

The remaining collection inspired by Sargent paintings.

These little lovelies will go on sale this week but I wanted to post a preview so you can see them framed and start picking your favorites. I will be posting individual close ups with a Buy Now button for each one so you will see them in more detail once they are up for sale. Each has a black ribbon for hanging on your tree and they'll be the same price as last year, $65/each.

Look out because the holidays are sneaking up on us.

A prize winning pooch

2011-11-02T16:21:00.004-04:00

What a good doggie.

I just received a call telling me that my New Yorkie painting won 3rd place at the Woodshed Gallery's Small Works Show. I am pretty excited about that. Here is the link to see all of the entries and winners: Woodshed Gallery. The show will be up for the month of November. See the side column of my blog under Now Showing for the address of the gallery should you be in the area and want to check it out. The holiday season is just around the corner!

FUN FACT: Did I tell you that I found out this little guy's name is Steven Tyler? How fun is that? But I think he needs a little feather extension in his fur, don't you agree?

Sargent Mini Series continued

2011-10-29T16:38:00.003-04:00

I had to round out the Boit Daughters by painting the other two sisters. And the top mini is of course, inspired by Lady Agnew of Lochnaw. So fun to paint these minis, that I can't seem to stop. I need to let them dry a little more before the framing can be completed but I am excited to show them to you when they are all done.

Do you have a favorite Sargent that you think I should try? Or any favorite masterpiece that you think would make a good mini painting?

Send me your suggestions!

More mini Sargent studies

2011-10-21T09:16:00.005-04:00

I just can't get enough of these little paintings. I find I learn so much by studying master's works. These two pieces, measure about 3.5" by 2.5" and are inspired by the painting Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose by John Singer Sargent. I remember seeing this painting in person at a show at the MFA in Boston and it was just so magical in it's size and it's luminosity. The lanterns looked like they were actually lit from behind the canvas.

I've ordered some cute frames from Nancy at MiniArt Supply and have started framing these up. I'm excited to show you the final pieces. Stay tuned!

Mini Sargent studies

2011-10-08T12:54:00.008-04:00

I've been painting some mini studies of John Singer Sargent paintings from the MFA in Boston. Below are the ones I've done so far. Can you name the paintings these were based on?
These are each about 2 1/2 inches square and could be a preview to my 2011 Mini Masters Ornament Collection. Someone suggested I leave them all together like this instead of trimming them down. What do you think?

Tweet Tweet

2011-10-02T16:30:00.003-04:00

Perched
5" by 5"
Oil with a palette knife on canvas

I'm pretty sure this is a European Robin, but all you bird experts out there can tell me if that is correct. This little guy was a quick painting at the end of a long day but was a great exercise in capturing the texture of feathers and branches with a palette knife.

Shop til you drop

2011-09-28T12:00:00.004-04:00

Newbury Street, Boston

18" x 24" x 2"

Oil on cradled board

I finished up this painting while working at The Art Gallery at Patriot Place last Friday night. It was rainy and miserable out so it was really quiet, allowing a lot of uninterrupted time to paint. I plan to enter this painting into the Fall Member show at the Foxboro Art Association. The show will be hanging at the gallery throughout the month of October with a reception on October 8 from 2-4pm. Stop by and see all the wonderful art produced by this talented group.

UPDATE ON : Can you help me title this painting?

2011-09-26T08:00:00.007-04:00

City of Gold

8" x 8" x 1.5"

Oil with a palette knife of cradled board

I love coming up with titles for my paintings. As I am painting, it usually comes to me. But this time I need your help. Nothing is bubbling to the surface so I'd love to hear your suggestions.

By the way, this was painted from a photo I took on one of my recent visits to New York.

Thanks, good luck, and I look forward to your inspirational suggestions!

UPDATE 9.26.11 Wow-what a great list of suggested titles I received from everyone. I really appreciate them all and am going to put them all in the hopper to use for future paintings. I decided on City of Gold-this seemed to be a theme running throughout a lot of the suggestions.

Also-for Sherry, that little red building "dwarfed by the city that grew up around it" is the Merchant's House Museum on East Fourth Street. It looks like a really interesting place and I have to put it on the list for our next visit.

Newbury Street-off to a good start

2011-09-18T21:01:00.008-04:00

I worked on this large painting (18" by 24") of Newbury Street, Boston while working at The Art Gallery at Patriot Place this weekend. I'm excited about how it's coming along so far and anxious to get back to it. I think it's interesting to see see paintings in progress, and I will post the completed painting soon!

Back Bay Stepsisters

2011-09-15T08:00:00.001-04:00

Back Bay Stepsisters

8" x 8" x 1.5"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled artist board

Another walk around Boston at lunchtime inspired this painting of these 3 lovely ladies on Marlborough Street.

Gardenias from the Garden

2011-09-12T12:00:00.003-04:00

Gardenias from the Garden

6" by 6"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled artist board

This was a quick painting done in class last week. It turned into a study of whites, complementary colors, and composition. Plus a little bit of me hoping summer doesn't go away too soon. Come into the garden, have a seat, relax, and enjoy nature with me.

Juried in at Zullo

2011-09-08T08:00:00.010-04:00

Abstract Boston

9" by 12"

Oil with a palette knife

City Blocks

12" by 12"

Oil with a palette knife

I am excited because it was announced that these two paintings were juried into the 17th Annual Exhibition at Zullo Gallery in Medfield. I showed some work in this show last year and I think it is such a great venue. I feel honored to be part of it again. I drop them off this weekend and then the opening reception is Saturday, September 24 from 7-9pm. Last year it was packed so I'm looking forward to it and hoping for good weather because they have great outside deck.

Portofino-take me away!

2011-09-05T22:00:00.000-04:00

Buon Viaggio

9" x 12"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled artist board

A friend of mine, who retired a few years ago, made it her goal to "see the world" and she is darn near close to doing just that. Every year she books cruises to exotic place, takes wonderful photos of her travels, and then creates a book out of each journey once she arrives back home. She showed me this photo of Portofino, Italy and I asked her if I could paint it because I fell in love with the colors and textures of the buildings. I have yet to see Portofino in person, but hope to do so one day.

Buon pomeriggio.

Herding Cats

2011-09-02T06:00:00.009-04:00

Or should I say hoarding?

Starting today, and all next month at Custom Art Framing & Gallery 9, I was invited to participate in a show called Six Pack. There are 6 artists, each showing 6 paintings that are all 6" by 6". Clever, right? I submitted this assortment of kitty cat faces, but wait, is that a dog in there? How did that happen? Well, I guess there has to be a dog in every bunch. "One of these things is not like the others..."

I am pricing these cuties at $100 each. If you can't make it to the show in person, but are interested in purchasing one, you can contact Julie at Gallery 9 in Norwood by clicking here.

And these are all 100% allergy free.

New Yorkie

2011-08-31T08:00:00.004-04:00

New Yorkie

6" by 6"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

I saw this photo and thought that the fur and the colors would be great fun to paint with a palette knife. And it was. Curious onlookers asked if this was my dog. It's not but he is now a new member of my animal family of paintings. Would you like to adopt him?

UPDATE I found out that this little guy's name is Steven Tyler. What a hoot. Click here to see the owner's blog and scroll down to Sept 3 to see my painting. What a cutie he is and so famous. I think he might need some feather extension in his fur.

A return to Nantucket (in my mind)

2011-08-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

Joan's view

4" x 8"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

Several weeks ago, I wrote about a painting getaway we took to Nantucket. I had to leave my paintings behind because they needed to dry, but I just received them back again. Thank you Haydi for their safe return!

I forgot to take a photo of this little scene I painted before I left, so now that it's back I was able to photograph it and post it here today.

It brings back such wonderful memories of a wonderful trip.

Are black cats bad luck?

2011-08-25T22:00:00.000-04:00

The Witch's Familiar

6" by 6"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

I thought it would be a challenge to paint an all black cat and boy, it was. The subtle variations in his fur made it so tricky-is it more blue black? or green black? or what? How do I define the shadows and still give his fur dimension and his face some shape? And black cats have black noses too-did you know that?

I don't believe black cats are bad luck. Sure hope you don't either!

Feed the kitty

2011-08-23T09:42:00.007-04:00

Curious

6" x 6"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

I do so love orange and white cats. Probably because I had one for 17 years, Skippy. Or should I say he owned me? Once, my neighbor's son said to his mother when he saw me "Is that who Skippy owns?" I just loved that.

My reference for this painting wasn't actually an orange and white cat, but I chose to make him so. Artistic license at work. I am a card carrying member!

Boston Building Blocks

2011-08-20T10:00:00.001-04:00

City Blocks

12" by 12" by 1.5"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

Another Boston city scene, very familiar to me. I love the buildings, all so different, yet all interacting with one another. Fun fun, fun with windows galore.

An Updated Look

2011-08-17T17:00:00.019-04:00

I just had some new business cards made and thought I would update my blog banner to coordinate the look. I've been using the same banner since I started blogging in 2009 so I thought it might be time for a refresh. I really like this macro zoom photo of one of my flower paintings. I think it represents the thick texture and bright colors of my paintings. It is also the profile picture on my Facebook page.

And speaking of macro zoom photos. Last weekend at the The Art Studio and Gallery @Patriot Place, one of our featured artists, Rebecca Skinner took some amazing close-up photos of our painting palettes. I asked her if I could share them here on my blog, so here they are. These first 3 are all from my palette.

These last 2 are from Polo's palette.

Pretty cool, huh? Check out Rebecca Skinner's beautiful photography on her website and her Facebook page.

Releasing your inner lion

2011-08-15T18:00:00.006-04:00

Inner Lion

6" by 6"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled artist board

Another new kitty face to add my collection. This cat looks so regal and lionlike to me. And like he wants to be fed some meat!

As I was painting, I stopped to take this photo of the painting partially completed. I thought it had a striking look about it.

Meow.
Or should I say ROAR?!

Busy Back Bay

2011-08-11T22:00:00.004-04:00

View from 500 Boylston

12" x 12" x 1.5"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

We used to be able to see this view from the 5th floor of our office building. But now a new company moved in and took over this space. So I'm glad I captured this view with my camera before that happened. This is Boylston Street looking back towards Copley Square. I just can't seem to get away from painting windows. In fact, I seem to seek them out. Yikes.

Hibiscus Gift Box

2011-08-08T08:30:00.001-04:00

Many years ago I bought a watch and it came in a beautiful, colorful box. I have kept the box all these years thinking that some day I would repurpose it. This past weekend, I got inspired and painted a hibiscus flower on the top of it to go with the pattern that appears on the side.

Hibiscus Gift Box

4" by 4"

Oil with a palette knife on wood

Here you can see what the side of the box looks like. It also came with white ribbons that you can tie it up with. Quite an elaborate box, for such a simple watch.

In the image below you can see what the inside looks like. It even has a cute little purple pillow to put your treasure on. I painted the top and bottom of the box with acrylic to match this inside color.

And of course I had to include a chunky delicious close up.

The Art Gallery at Patriot Place in the news

2011-08-03T21:00:00.001-04:00

The Art Gallery at Patriot Place was in the news this week. Evie Malm wrote a wonderful article about the gallery for the Foxboro Reporter which was then picked up by the Attleboro Sun Chronicle. She also took some accompanying photos, one of which I'm reposting on my blog here because it shows this cute family in front of my art holding one of my cat paintings. I love it.

Click here to read the Foxboro Reporter article and here to see the Sun Chronicle's version.

Summer House

2011-07-30T18:47:00.004-04:00

Summer House
8" by 8'
Oil with a palette knife on cradled panel

It's not our summer home, but some lucky people are enjoying this house in Wellfleet on Cape Cod right now. I took some liberties here, exaggerating the angles and wanting to keep the style loose to give some personality to this cute little yellow house. Yeah summer!

Nantucket Painting Getaway

2011-07-24T17:32:00.020-04:00

Monomoy Harbor
8" by 8"
Oil with a palette knife on cradled panel

Our painting group, The Neponset Valley Artists, went on a 3 day excursion to Nantucket this past weekend. As part of our new membership to The Arts Foundation of Cape Cod, we each received a round trip ticket on Cape Air so of course we had to take advantage of that wonderful opportunity. It turned out that we picked the perfect 3 days to be away from the crazy hot heat wave going on back home~"off island" as the natives say on Nantucket.

The painting above was done at a friend of a friend's place that had incredible views of Monomoy Harbor. Our generous hosts allowed us to invade their property and paint whatever and wherever we wanted. What a treat. And everyone painted something a little bit different. Here are the fruits of our labor on painting day 1:

We then took a ride out to Sconset. While we didn't do any plein air painting there, every where we turned there was inspiration and our cameras were busy capturing as much as possible.

Our next painting location was the front porch of this incredible family home on the channel. There was so much to watch, observe, and paint.

I forgot to take a photo of my painting before I left ( I had to leave it behind to dry for awhile), but this was my view. The frames of the porch helped me with my composition.

Haydi and Nancy in action.

Kim hard at work on some more lovely pastels.

Some were just content to observe through the binoculars.

Isn't this a wonderful spot? And a fun trivia fact: This house was Helen Chapel's home on the TV show Wings.

Below is the group photo and some departing shots. On the way home, we filled up the whole plane. It was like we chartered the flight!

Thanks Arts Foundation of Cape Cod and our hostess for the weekend, Haydi for such a wonderful three days. It could not have been any better.

Blue Hydrangea Heaven

2011-07-17T09:43:00.010-04:00

Blue Hydrangea Heaven
8" by 8"
Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

We were staying at a great house on Cape Cod last week that had the most beautiful hydrangea garden in the front yard. All the shades of blues and purples were just calling to be captured with my palette knife.
There was a very daring chipmunk that kept checking us out. I think he was living somewhere in the hydrangea bush. He wouldn't sit still for me, but I decided to add him into the bottom right of the painting anyway.

Here are a few more chunky delicious close ups.

After I completed the painting above, I did these three quick little paintings that I figure I can turn into greeting cards once they dry. These are each about 3" square more or less.

Tumbles

2011-07-10T09:36:00.005-04:00

Tumbles

6" by 6"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

Cindy asked me to paint this kitty portrait in memory of her family's dearly departed friend, Tumbles. He was a member of their family for many years and had a long and happy life. This was really fun to paint and Cindy said that I captured his personality. That is the greatest compliment of all-Tumbles approval!

Beacon Hill

2011-07-04T11:28:00.011-04:00

60 Beacon Hill
Oil with a palette knife on cradled board
36" by 12"

I painted this large painting while working at The Art Studio and Gallery at Patriot Place this past weekend. It was nice to have the space and the time to do a large piece. The canvas was so big it wouldn't fit on my plein air easel so I had to create a makeshift easel using a chair for stability.

Below are a few photos of the painting in progress.

I sketched the composition in pencil first, which is unusual for me but I wanted to make sure to get the whole brownstone in the paintings.
I planned out the red brick area first, then I pretty much just worked from top to bottom, adding layers of colors and window detailing.
My vision for this series is to paint several of these brownstones, so typical of Beacon Hill, and line them all up next to one another, like the view you see looking at The Hill from Boston Common.

We are heading into Boston today to see the Red Sox play and enjoy the excitement of downtown. Happy Fourth of July everyone!

My sketchbook is available for online viewing

2011-06-30T11:11:00.006-04:00

I received an email from Art House Co-op that my sketchbook has been digitized and is now available for viewing online in their Digital Library. How fun is that? You can view my sketchbook by clicking this link. There are thousands of amazing sketchbooks available for viewing now, so take a look, browse, and get inspired to sign up for The Sketchbook Project 2012!!

The farmer's market is open for business

2011-06-21T10:20:00.021-04:00

Flowers from the Farmer's Market

7" by 5"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

There is a wonderful farmer's market in downtown Boston that is open every Tuesday and Friday during the summer and fall. I love to stroll down there at lunch time and see all of the beautiful vegetables, fruits, herbs, and especially the colorful flowers.

This painting above was done several years ago, but I'm recycling it here because it reminds me of summer and the farmer's market. Here are a few shots I took last summer that may inspire future paintings:

Catalog fun

2011-06-15T15:07:00.008-04:00

This was just a fun Photoshop experiment. I took images of two of my paintings with their frames and wanted to see how they would look in different rooms and settings. So I found some interior shots from online catalogs and practiced my Photoshop skills by placing my images within them. Magic!

Majestic Pine

12" x 12"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

Shady Maple

12" x 12"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

Trees in the family room.

Trees in the living room.

Trees in the bedroom.

And if you haven't yet seen this blog called Catalog Living, you have to check out the adventures of Gary and Elaine as they tell their story through catalog photos. It's hysterical.

Catman has found a home

2011-06-09T14:41:00.003-04:00

One of my collectors just purchased "Catman" and sent me this photo of him in his new home. Isn't it fun to see paintings in their environment? He looks pretty happy to be there overseeing all the goings on in the living room.

Sheep's clothing

2011-06-03T12:00:00.004-04:00

Here's 2 Ewe

8" by 8"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled panel

I needed a lighthearted subject to paint during class last night and the cute face of the sheep in this photo was just inviting me to paint it. The textures of the hay, barn, and the sheep's fleece were great fun to paint with the palette knife and this worked up rather quickly for me. You can't really see it in this image, but I used a combination of many colors on my palette to create the deep dark interior of the barn to give it interest and depth.

Don't they look like fun company for lunch?

A few chunky delicious close ups....

A smart place to eat lunch

2011-05-30T10:00:00.002-04:00

Maproom Cafe, BPL

20" by 20"

Oil with a palette knife on panel

I love to go to the Boston Public Library at lunch time, especially when the weather is nice and you can enjoy a sandwich out in the beautiful courtyard. This lunchspot indoors, The Maproom, is a wonderful alternative should the weather outside not be so nice. I love the feel of this room with it's beautiful tile ceiling and large windows. This painting is large for me and I painted it while we were working at the Art Gallery at Patriot Place last weekend. You can see an update on our weekend by checking out that blog.

Looking out on Lafayette

2011-05-23T09:44:00.004-04:00

Concrete Jungle

8" x 8"

Oil with a palette knife on panel

Another painting from my visit to NYC. This is a view out onto Lafayette Street from my friend's place on Great Jones in the lower east side. I just love painting these windows, the color of the window reflections changed from orange to blue as you moved up the building. I can't help but sing that Alicia Keys song when I think of New York. "...concrete jungle where dreams are made of, there's nothing you can't do... when you're in New York..."

New Exhibit Space

2011-05-20T07:00:00.000-04:00

You just never know when show opportunities arise. Our painting group, The Neponset Valley Artists, just organized and hung a show at the South Shore Dermatology Practice office in North Easton, MA. Isn't it great to see an appreciation for hanging original art in such a venue? And isn't looking at art better than reading the latest about William and Kate in People Magazine? This show will be up for 4 months before they switch it out for a new exhibit.

That reminds me... I probably need to make an appointment.

Judging an art show

2011-05-16T13:52:00.009-04:00

This past weekend I was asked if I would be a judge for the 2011 Taunton Art Association's Spring Art Show. Of course I said yes and what a great experience it was. There was a wide selection of art in each category: oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, drawing, photography, and mixed media.
They have a wonderful building to exhibit their work and the committee was so organized and supportive while me and the other two judges, Christina Beecher, and Jack Gannon discussed, debated, and deliberated. Picking only a few winners proved extremely challenging, but we worked well together to come to an agreement on the final prize winners.

Congratulations to all the artists on a wonderful show.

A masterpiece in frosting

2011-05-09T10:36:00.009-04:00

Last Friday night was the reception for the Just Desserts show at Gallery 9 in Norwood. In addition to submitting a painting, artists were encouraged to bring a dessert that was inspired by their submission. I had always wanted to try my hand at "painting" a masterpiece on a cake with frosting. A logical transition for a palette knife painter, don't you think? Well, here it is...

My first Ann Gogh:

Here is a close up after the first few bites were enjoyed:
Which masterpiece do you think would look good frosted on a cake?

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T07:00:00.003-04:00

Mother and Child, after Cassatt

7" x 5"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

Who is that masked kitty?

2011-05-04T22:00:00.001-04:00

Catman

6" x 6"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

I think that black and white cats often look like they are wearing a mask. Their bright eyes pearing out of the darkness. Just like Batman.

Opening weekend at our new gallery!

2011-05-02T11:59:00.018-04:00

Within just two weeks, a group of 6 artists have met, organized, and set up a brand new art gallery at Patriot Place and we opened our doors this weekend! The Artist's Studio and Gallery at Patriot Place will have live painting, local art on display, and activities that partner with the area restaurants such as art openings. This is an amazing opportunity for us as well as the Foxboro Art Association. We will be featuring 3 new local artists each weekend to keep things fresh and interesting. I've included some photos below of our fast paced set up.

The gallery front.

Gillette Stadium, where the New England Patriots play, is our backdrop!

Polo and I contemplating our arrangement of paintings.

Our final display is shown below with our names showcased on the wall above our art!

Live painting with Polo.

At Friday night's reception.

What an exciting new venture. I will keep you posted as things develop.

Hello Kitty

2011-04-28T07:00:00.001-04:00

Hello Kitty
6" x 6"
Oil with a palette knife on panel

I once wrote on Facebook that if I wasn't so allergic, I'm pretty sure I'd be one of those cat ladies. I've always loved cats and it's so not fair that they make me sneeze and wheeze so much. I think that painting all these cat faces has been a good substitute for me. And I don't need the inhaler.

And the winner is...

2011-04-27T22:00:00.004-04:00

Sweety Pie!

The final tally was:

3 for Say Cheesecake

13 for Sweety Pie

2 for Tiramisu For You

Thanks everyone for voting. That was fun.

Vote for your favorite

2011-04-24T22:00:00.008-04:00

Can you help me decide?

I am planning on entering a painting into a show at Gallery 9 called Just Desserts at the end of this month. I can only enter one painting so I need your help deciding which one to enter of the 3 choices below. What better way than to create a poll? So please cast your vote in the poll at the top of the side bar to the right by 10 pm on Wed, April 27.

1. Say Cheesecake

2. Sweety Pie

3. Tiramisu For You

Oh and the gallery is offering an interesting incentive to a lucky juried prize winner. They will have an oversized image of your painting made into a store sign (see below) to display outside of the gallery. Pretty cool huh?

Thanks everyone. Vote early and often.

I hope you had a wonderful Easter weekend.

Fur Person

2011-04-21T07:00:00.003-04:00

Fur Person
6" x 6"
Oil with a palette knife on panel

When I was a teenager and obsessed with cats, my mother gave me a book for my birthday called The Fur Person by May Sarton. I still have the book and this cat reminds me of the cat shown on the cover. It is a wonderful story told through the eyes of a cat about life with humans. I don't remember all the details about the book except that I LOVED it at the time. I should probably go back and read it again to see what my teenage brain was so obsessed with.

Pick me up

2011-04-18T08:00:00.002-04:00

Tiramisu For You

8" x 6"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

I was searching for the meaning of the word Tiramisu in Italian. I liked "pick me up" the best because that's what this little dessert will do for you. Light and spongy and chocolaty goodness all in one. I tried several colors for the bottom of this painting but they all seemed to be competing with the beauty of the dark chocolate so I settled on a subtle color. I also obliterated the shadow for the same reason. Now it kind of looks like its sitting on a shiny surface. Which I don't really mind too much.

Breaking 100

2011-04-16T08:00:00.002-04:00

Threesome

6" x 12" x .75"
Oil with a palette knife on cradled panel

This is not a new painting but I thought it appropriate for this post since I officially broke 100 for my number of followers. I feel so honored to have that many people (who aren't related to me) interested in my art. Thank you everyone!

I do play golf occasionally and I was trying to score below 100 for 18 holes for a long time. Now, I have been lucky enough to have done that several times. Breaking 90 is the new target I have not reached. Perhaps this year will be the one? This painting shows my mother at the left, who was a very good golfer. She had no trouble breaking 100 or even breaking 90.

I hope everyone has a lucky, breaking 100 (or whatever your goal) is day!

Sweety Pie

2011-04-13T22:00:00.006-04:00

Sweety Pie

6" x 8"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

The whipped cream edging on this was especially fun to paint with the palette knife as well as that aluminum foil pie pan edging.

Now, don't you just want to grab that spoon and dig right in?

Spring into Summer

2011-04-10T20:03:00.006-04:00

Freshly cut

6" x 6"
Oil with a palette knife on board

What a beautiful weekend it was. The weather was hinting with signs of a warm summer to come. Daffodils are the first sign of life after a long winter and also a sure sign that Easter is on the way.
Finally-spring is in full bloom and summer is not far behind. Bring it!

The Sketchbook Project Tour LIVE

2011-04-07T22:00:00.006-04:00

This past weekend, we met a group of friends up in Portland, Maine to see the Sketchbook Project Tour live and in person. What a blast it was. I wanted to share a few photos from the event.

Their system is quite simple yet hi tech. You sign in for a computer gernerated library card on the Mac, then you can request 2 books at a time (we all thought they should have given your more like 5 at a time) either by asking for a certain artist or theme, or they will choose two books for you at random.

Look how many there were to choose from. I read that about 10,000 sketchbooks are traveling in all. These carts are loaded on and off the truck which travels to the next town.

When you were done, you just returned them to this desk, and the staff checked them back in. We discovered that this return table was a good place to quickly flip through books to see what you might be interested in checking out the next time you got into the checkout line.

Here we are holding our sketchbooks!

Some friends who came along, also enjoyed looking.

Afterwards we went out to one of the local establishments to unwind, where the budding young artists in our group got inspired by the show to get a jump start on their own sketchbooks for next year!

Next stop Atlanta!

La Violinista

2011-04-05T09:31:00.019-04:00

Solo

10" x 8"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

Back in January, I wrote about a trip we made to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York during which we enjoyed wonderful music on the mezzanine. This is my attempt at painting the talented violinist after being inspired by the beautiful painting of Paganini by Eugene Delacroix. You can see that post as well as his painting, but clicking here.

I painted this on a sheet of canvas from Fredrix. I like to paint on these sheets occasionally because my strokes are not confined by the end of the panel and then in the end I can crop it any way I want. I was thinking of cropping in on her to make it more of a vertical composition like this. What do you think?

And here is a close up...

Going, going, gone....

2011-03-29T13:41:00.013-04:00

Looking Up
Oil with a palette knife on cradled artist panel

8" x 8

I donated this painting to the Foxboro Library Art Auction which took place this past weekend at the Foxboro Country Club. What a well organized and fun event. There were 53 works of art auctioned off and they are estimating that they raised around $14,000 dollars for the library. Pretty impressive. You can read more about the auction by visiting the Foxboro Art Association blog.

Below are some photos from the night.

The organizers of the event.

The auctioneers with the painting that solicited the highest bid of the night-Founder's Day Parade by Jackie Canna-for $1050.

My painting being auctioned off.

I bid on several paintings and was lucky to have come home with a beautiful pastel by Cindy Kerr.

In Your Face

2011-03-27T09:00:00.002-04:00

Cirque du Kitty
6" x 6"
Oil with a palette knife on board

The colors of this painting got a little crazy, like circus crazy. But I'm liking how it came out. This cat's eyes reminded me of the poster for the musical Cats-so striking! He has a very regal, wild, tigerlike face, don't you think? I am enjoying doing these really tight close ups of the animal faces. If you have a cat yourself, you have probably seen this in your face at about 5 am checking to see if you are awake. Isn't it time to eat?

Inspirational student work

2011-03-23T22:00:00.005-04:00

There is a wonderful student show at the Transportation Building in Boston right now. It's the Annual Scholastic Art Gold and Silver Key award winners. I took some photos of some of the pieces that caught my eye but overall I was so impressed.

This is a detail of a drawing by Anna Viccica. I loved how you could see the texture of the paper coming through. Exquisite.

There were several large self portraits from one school in Belmont which were fantastic. This wall held most of them. Hats off to this art teacher encouraging his/her students to work this large. I don't remember ever doing something this big in high school. And the technical skill was outstanding. Below are a few close ups of two of my favorites.

All media were eligible including photography, sculpture, digital art, and design.

I loved the artwork on this boot. Take a close look at the detail if you can. Amazing. It is so inspiring to see such wonderful art coming out of our high schools.

Opera House Makeover

2011-03-20T22:00:00.004-04:00

Boston Opera House (revisited)

12" x 12" x .75"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

I revisited this painting. Something was bothering me. There was no sky and I think it was making the painting feel too yellow and orange overall. You can see the earlier version by clicking here. I thought if I added a nice blue it might make the other colors pop more. It's always scary to do something like this because, what if you make it look worse? So no one is allowed to tell me you like the original painting better. Oh-alright, I can take it.

And finally...a chunky delicious close up.

Abstract Boston?

2011-03-16T13:54:00.011-04:00

Boston from the Footbridge

9" x 12" x 1.5"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

I thought the shapes in the reference photo I used for this painting had a very abstract feel and I tried to capture that in this painting.

Of course, I couldn't resist adding just a few windows. And I tried something new in the reddish building in the back. I scraped away the paint with the knife to create the feel of a row windows instead of painting them on top.

The Sketchbook Project Tour has begun

2011-03-14T22:00:00.010-04:00

My friend Greg took this photo of his daughter holding up my Boys & Girls sketchbook which they checked out on the first stop of The Sketchbook Project's tour-Austin, Texas. How fun is that?

The next stop is Portland, Maine. We plan to head up there with a few other artist friends to see the tour firsthand on April 2.

Click here for the schedule of all of the cities on the tour. Is it coming to your town?

And just an interesting side note...Elizabeth, shown in the photo, loves books and was the subject of this painting, In Her Element.

How much is that kitty in the window?

2011-03-11T07:00:00.018-05:00

Le chat dans la fenêtre

8" x 10"

Oil with a palette knife on board

There was something about the reference photo I was using for this painting that looked French to me. For my blog readers that know French (Martine-Alison, Tony, Kim) you can tell me if google translated the title correctly from The Cat In The Window.

I started this painting a few months ago and was never happy with how the curtains came out. Very difficult to get that feel of sheer doile, laceyness with a palette knife. I ended up painting a light color on top of the dark color and then scraping some away to get the effect I wanted.

Paint your cake and eat it too

2011-03-07T18:00:00.005-05:00

Say Cheesecake

8" x 6"

Oil with a palette knife on canvas

I bought this cute little cheesecake at Finale (a wonderful bakery down the street from our office) so I could paint it during painting class. I have to admit, I thought painting this would be a "piece of cake" but it was soooo tricky. The fork especially, was difficult to make look realistic with just the palette knife.

The best thing was, we were able to enjoy eating it after class with our chicken nachos and beer. And it was creamy delish.

Wide-eyed kitten face

2011-03-03T12:00:00.005-05:00

Wide-eyed Kitten Face

6" x 6"

Oil with a palette knife on board

This is Gadjo. He is Rumi's little brother. This painting was done from a photo of him when he was just a kitten. He is now a young man and fitting right in with the rest of the critters. Check him out on Jala Pfaff's blog and while you are there, take a look at her new beautiful pastels. Quite a treat.

Here's lookin' at you, kitty

2011-02-24T23:00:00.004-05:00

Here's Lookin' at you, Kitty
6" x 6"
Oil with a palette knife on board

I was captivated by the cute pose of this sweet white kitty. His name is Rumi and he is deaf which is ironic because the pink color of his ears was one of things that first attracted me to this picture. He has grown up to be quite the character and I have been following his antics on a blog by a fellow artist, Jala Pfaff. You can check in on Rumi and her other furry creatures by clicking here. The photo was used as reference with her permission.

Boston Uncommon

2011-02-20T16:31:00.009-05:00

Boston Uncommon
14" x 11" x .75"
Oil with a palette knife on cradled artist panel

I finally was able to finish this painting that I started at the palette knife demo I did at the Blackstone Art Association late last year. My reference for this painting was a photo I took on one of my lunch time walks around Boston. It is one of the many interesting views you can see near Arlington and Boylston streets, right where the Public Gardens and the Boston Common come together. I'm not sure why I like this composition because in theory it violates the rules of good composition with the lamp post right in the middle and the Hancock Tower also centered at the top. But maybe that's also why I was attracted to it too. Sometimes you gotta break the rules right?

North End, Boston

2011-02-14T11:09:00.006-05:00

North End, Boston
10" x 10" x 1.5"
Oil with a palette knife on cradled board

This painting shows a scene from Boston's Italian neighborhood, the North End. I was trying to capture the flavor of the neighborhood with it's narrow streets, small doorways, and interesting architecture. In the summertime, you will see residents sitting out on the sidewalk enjoying the nice weather, talking to neighbors, while tourists stroll the narrow streets looking for just the right Italian restaurant to dine. You really can't go wrong with whichever one you choose!

This weekend, we rented the movie The Town, and one of the chase scenes takes place in the North End. It would really have been something to see them filming that because the streets are just not conducive to speeding cars and quick getaways. Only in the movies.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone. I hope you find the perfect place to dine with your loved one.

Maggie

2011-02-04T11:03:00.007-05:00

Maggie

4" x 4" x 1.5"

Oil with a palette knife on cradled artist board

This is Maggie. She is my dad and stepmom's Bichon Frise. I recently found the cutest photo of her as a puppy and wanted to give painting her a try. This is the same size as the Santa face I painted for Christmas and I had the tight crop of that painting in mind when I composed this one. This was a lot tougher than I thought it would be.

How far away is Spring?

2011-01-28T10:02:00.004-05:00

Kim's Primrose

6" by 6"

Oil with a palette knife on artist board

Last night, our instructor brought a primrose to painting class for whoever wanted to paint from life. With all of the snow we have been having, it was such a nice bright spot of color so I jumped right in on it. Flowers are such fun to do with the palette knife.

Weekend field trip

2011-01-26T18:00:00.004-05:00

Last weekend we went to NYC and one of our favorite parts of the trip was our visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. They are open late on Saturday nights and we discovered that they have live music and serve cocktails on the mezzanine. What a wonderful way to spend a cold winter evening in NYC. We scored a table right up front by the music, a wonderful classical quartet. Not wanting to use the flash, the photos are quite dark so I did the best I could brightening them up in Photoshop but trust me, the setting was just perfect.

Polo made the observation that the violin player reminded him of this Delacroix painting of Paganini. I was impressed with his quick recall of the correct artist and subject. Which inspired me to want to paint her in this style.

Paganini

by Eugene Delacroix, c.1832

Reflections on the Sketchbook Project

2011-01-21T22:00:00.002-05:00

As the Sketchbook Project comes to a close, I wanted to finally share the cover and title page I did before I mailed it out this week. You can't really see it here, but I cut out one of the photos at the right side (so there is actually a hole in the cover) and then you it peers through from the title page underneath. Hope that survives all the handling.

Cover

Title page

There are a few thoughts I wanted to capture from my experience particpating in this project:

• As I was drawing each photo, I realized that it made me think about that person the whole time I was drawing them. That was nice.

• I enjoyed drawing girls more than boys. Pigtails and pretty dresses are much more interesting than boy hair and clothes.

• I have a new appreciation for the various lead weights of pencils. I find I don't care for the H leads very much. (Did you know that HB is the same as a number 2 pencil?)

• I have missed drawing. I had been painting so much that I forgot how relaxing and enjoyable drawing can be. And you can do it anywhere-on the train or watching TV.

All of the final drawings are posted here on my blog as well as on theSketchbook Project website.

The final 2 drawings!

2011-01-20T22:00:00.006-05:00

Carl

Jana

These are the last two drawings in my submission for The Sketchbook Project, called Boys & Girls! I can't believe it. All of the final drawings are posted here on my blog as well as on the Sketchbook Project website.

A mother's kiss

2011-01-19T22:00:00.005-05:00

Baby Jack

My friends' baby Jack came way earlier than he was supposed to and was so tiny at birth-not even 4 lbs. I just loved this photo of his mother giving him that gentle mother's kiss to let him know that some day he will grow up to be big and strong. And he did-he is now taller than his mother!

I will continue to post the final drawings here on my blog as well as on the Sketchbook Project website.

I'm also experimenting with adding these Facebook Like buttons to my posts so if you feel so inclined, please "like' my post!

A list for Santa

2011-01-18T22:00:00.003-05:00

Marissa with Santa

This is my stepdaughter, Marissa, all ready with her list for Santa at age 2. I sure hope she got what she asked for. It would be hard to say no to that cute face.

I will continue to post the final drawings here on my blog as well as on the Sketchbook Project website.

Zac

2011-01-17T22:00:00.001-05:00

Zac

This is my nephew Zac when he was little. I love how huge the ball and bat look in his little hands. What a cute kid. Now he's all grown up and about to turn 21. Yikes how time flies!

I will continue to post the final drawings here on my blog as well as on the Sketchbook Project website.

Flower interruption

2011-01-16T22:00:00.003-05:00

I interrupt the Sketchbook Project postings with a little bit of color. While the pencil drawings have been so much fun, I will be excited to get back to being productive with the knives again.

Roses
6" by 6" or so
Oil with a palette knife on canvas

I plan to crop this painting as shown above to the 6" by 6" size but below is how it looked before I cropped it. It's interesting how you can be a little freer to paint "outside the lines" this way since it's on canvas paper and not on a precut board.

And here is a chunky delicious close up.

I hope that cheers you up on a cold winter day.

The KAL club

2011-01-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hercules' Birthday

My best friends growing up were Kathy and Laurie. Together, we were the KAL club. We had badges, art projects, a club house, shows, the works!

This drawing was done from a photo of Kathy and Laurie watching my cat, Hercules, eat a piece of cake that they brought for him on his birthday. I think he's really liking the frosting. And they are really liking that he likes it.

What great kid fun we had together.

I will continue to post the final drawings here on my blog as well as on the Sketchbook Project website.

School picture

2011-01-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

This was by far the most difficult of my drawings for the Boys and Girls Sketchbook. I think because it was the only one that was a true portrait. I wanted to give it a try because it is such a cute photo of my stepdaughter, Ariana, and school pictures are such a classic part of growing up. I kept reworking it because it never really felt like it resembled her enough-which is always more difficult when you know the person so well. I admire portrait artist so much more after attempting this drawing.

I've posted 4 versions of it that I scanned after trying "just one thing..." (I even tried drawing upside down!) The last one is where I am now. Still not completely satisfied, but will need to hang it up soon as the deadline is approaching and it must get into the mail.

Ari 1
Ari 2

Ari 3

Ari 4

Next step is to show it to her dad and see if he "approves".

I will continue to post the final drawings here on my blog as well as on the Sketchbook Project website.

Evan-Let's Eat!

2011-01-13T11:30:00.000-05:00

Evan

My friend Jeremy is an illustrator. He made the cutest plate for his nephew Evan and then posted a photo of him using it. The expression captured on his face is the exact one that Jeremy drew in the cartoon on the plate.

As the bunnies say to Evan, "Let's eat!"

The deadline for the Sketchbook Project has been extended to January 18-phew. I will continue to post the drawings here on my blog as well as on their site. You can see the entire collection of my sketchbook drawings by clicking here.

Bill and Gary

2011-01-12T08:00:00.003-05:00

I raided the Facebook photo albums of my friends Bill and Gary to find these gems of them when they were young. Baby Bill
Bill makes such a cute baby.

Young Gary, the lefty?

Gary is left handed and he commented that he noticed that the photographer who took this photo is having him hold the crayon with his right hand. As a lefty myself, I can feel the awkwardness of it. However, I do love the Davy Crockett outfit complete with fringe.

As I work up to the January 15 postmark date, I will continue to post the drawings on my blog as well as on their site. You can see the entire collection of my sketchbook drawings by clicking here.