The Painted Canvas

"And What are You Having?"

2012-01-28T11:25:00.000-08:00

24x36 - oil on canvas SOLD

This is a commission I did for a girl friend. She challenged me to do some wine bottles, something I've never painted. And of course she wanted it large. It took me some time, but I've finally have completed it and it's now hanging in her home. I think I'll be doing more wine related items.

"Family 4-ever"

2012-01-19T12:23:00.000-08:00

15"x30" oil on canvas - nfs

This is a painting I did for my daughter, Megan. She loves elephants!! This painting came so quick for me. A true pleasure to paint. My signiture was different for this one because it was for her. She calls me Marmee, from a favorite movie of mine, "Little Women". They called their mother Marmee. I watch this movie mostly during the Christmas season...her memory, like elephants, didn't fail her. I hope to paint more elephants!

"the Great Horned Owl"

2012-01-18T15:07:00.000-08:00

11x14 oil on canvas

I painted yet another wonderful species in the owl family. Across the street from where I live is the Cleveland National Forest, so at night when I have my window open in my studio I hear the wonderful calls of these magnificent owls. It's the most commonly known owl call. I have a few more owls I'm currently working on and will post those soon. I also have many more other paintings that I'm currently working on. Yes, I love to multi-task. ALL good!!

"Mini Cooper"

2012-01-04T15:38:00.000-08:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas - SOLD

This was an actual first for me, painting a Golden Retriever puppy. He was a joy to paint, very fluffy. The recipient cried when it was given to her...she truely enjoyed her gift!

"Harley"

2012-01-04T15:30:00.000-08:00

8"x10" oil on canvas board - SOLD

This was a painting I did for a friend for Christmas of her Puggle. He was adorable and just had to paint him...it was a surprise to her and her family! Isn't that the best kind.

"I Will 4 Ever Love You"

2011-12-14T13:51:00.000-08:00

8"x24" oil on gallery wrapped canvas - SOLD

This was a wonderful commission that I recently finished for Christmas. They are all rescued cats. From the left is, Nina, Gus, Mimi, and Gozwald, he's the oldest at 15. The others are 12, if I believe correctly. A beautiful family of loved cats!

"JuneBug"

2011-11-14T12:36:00.001-08:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas - SOLD

This is a commission I just recently finished. She's gone to doggie heaven, but not forgotten by her friends and family. I'm sure her owner will enjoy this gift!!!

"Pharoh"

2011-10-30T12:12:00.000-07:00

20"x16" oil on canvas

When I started back into painting I was introduced to painting the human portrait. I loved it, but it wasn't coming easy for me. I started to wander and paint fruit, flowers, landscapes, etc. I painted anything to avoid people. Then the animals started, all from a few commission pieces and I have been running with them ever since. I LOVE painting animals and I would have been the first one to admit that I never saw myself painting animals.

Then, my girlfriend lost her husband a year ago. I told her I wanted to paint him when she was ready. Almost a year later she had a fundraiser in his name, there on the table was his photo that I knew I had to paint. I really hoped that I could capture him. I had been so hard on myself with previous portraits that I talked myself out of painting them. In fact, I still have a couple unfinished.

Well, not only was I surprised of the outcome, but I painted him in 6 days. I think the second full day was when it just poured out of me. I also felt this amazing energy when painting him.

Normally the best part of a painting is looking forward to seeing a clients reaction, but knowing that it would be an emotional viewing for my friend I decided to wrap it up and dropped it off for her and her family to open in privacy. She had a different opinion...she wanted me to be there. She had a family dinnter last night and asked if I'd come over after since she had everyone there.

They all loved it! I was glad to be there. I shared that when I first started to paint him I kept seeing a race car behind him. She informed me he LOVED and watched the racecar races. He definately was with me the whole time I painted him. I look forward to the next one!

"Chocho"

2011-10-30T11:14:00.000-07:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas

This is a commission I recently finished for a girlfriend of mine. She didn't need it until next summer, but I thought, why wait? He's a Siberian Husky. Another fun new breed for me to have painted.

"Sammy"

2011-10-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

8"x10" oil on panel

This is my girlfriend's dog, Sammy, a schnauzer. I'm really enjoying painting different dog breeds. It brings new challenges to me. I actually did this painting in about 5 hours, which is a first for me. I guess I'm getting more efficient these days. That's a good thing.

"Snowy Owl"

2011-10-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

12"x12" gallery wrapped canvas

This painting was pretty much done and I tweaked it today, complete now! This is actually a juvenile snowy owl, adults are pure white. He was fun to paint, especially the right side with his whispy feathers. I also signed my initials to look like feather markings on the right. There are so many more owls I want to paint. I do have a short eared owl in flight I'm still working on. Will post that one soon, I hope. I have so many paintings I work on at a time I never know which ones I will complete first.

"Flag of Freedom"

2011-10-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

24"x30" oil on canvas

I took a photograph of our home flag around the 4th of July for my fb profile picture. I decided to paint it and here it is complete. It was a joy and honor to paint this as a tribute to the men and women who have given to our country for our freedom and to those who have given their lives for our country so that we can have our freedom! Thank you to all our troops!!

"City Paws"

2011-10-01T11:02:00.000-07:00

10"x8" oil on panel - SOLD

This painting is another one of "City the Kitty". I painted an earlier painting a 16x20 of him sitting in his favorite bowl. His mom, Lori Shepler is a professional photographer. Her photo, that I used for this was and is my top favorites. I asked if it would be okay to paint this one as well. I wasn't too sure of painting it in black and white at first. I must say though that I learned a lot from this painting. I handled the blending so differently and I was able to paint wet on wet with this. I look forward to the next black and white picture with open arms, I mean hands.

"Colby"

2011-09-24T11:23:00.001-07:00

8"x6" oil on panel - SOLD

Colby just past this week. I memorialized him by painting him for his owner. She used to live next to us when we lived in northern California. I incorporated her favorite color, orange, into the background. He'll be shipped off to his new home this week. I hope this painting brings her comfort.

"Gnatcatcher"

2011-09-23T13:22:00.000-07:00

"10x8" - oil on canvas

Another feathered friend. I finished this one a couple of weeks ago. This one is a Black-capped Gnatcatcher. The texture of the tree was fun to do. I carved my initials into this painting like I did with the "Nuthatch". I just finished a dog portrait and will post that one this weekend. I'm definately keeping busy in the studio. I have at least 5 paintings going at once in different stages. When I come into the studio I work on the one I'm in the mood for.

City the Kitty meets..."City the Kitty"

2011-09-20T17:33:00.000-07:00

12"x16" oil on canvas

I painted this one a while back and I just delivered it to his owners last week. Lori Shepler, http://www.lorishepler.com/ is a professional photographer in the LA area who is going to take our family picture by the ocean and figured I'd hand it over when we set the date. Well, with her busy schedule and a busy summer, we finally connected, at least for the delivery of the painting.

She shared with me this photo of him touching the painting. Lori said he kept admiring it and pawed it several times. I think he approves!

City the Kitty has his own fb page...it's fun to see what he gets into and tries to get out of. Of course all captured by his moms, Lori and Shanna. I hope you check his page out, he's very handsome!

"Max"

2011-09-07T13:16:00.000-07:00

12"x16" oil on canvas

This was a commission that I just finished. I hear he was a great dog and companion! He's in doggy heaven now, but obviously NOT forgotten. It was a great pleasure to paint him.

"Scout"

2011-08-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

12"x16" oil on canvas

I painted Scout for my girlfriend's husband's birthday. Scout was a shy dog to take pictures of, it was very funny. Finally my friends little boy came up behind me and Scout gave her best pose. I believe they were very happy with the end result of the painting. She was a pleasure to paint, as most are for me.

"In Flight" - in progress

2011-07-14T13:26:00.000-07:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas

I wanted to share this with you before my vacation. I started this a while ago and became daunted by it. Mean while, I painted my three 16x20 birds of prey, owl, hawk and eagle, go figure as they just rolled off my brush. I don't know why this bird had me at a stand still, but it did. Last Wednesday, I volunteered at my church to face paint. Guess what?? I was painting humming birds on little girls faces and they were the easiest to do. That made me come back to it and I just painted. I still have some small touch-ups, but it all worked out. Will update when I'm finished with him.

"Peace by Piece"

2011-07-09T10:55:00.000-07:00

8x8 oil on gallery wrapped canvas - SOLD

I've painted some of these stones before. I enjoyed stacking these like a cairn (karn), which is a mound of stones piled up to mark a boundary or to point the way for adventures seeking a trusted and well-traveled path. Of course, the butterfly represents ability to accept change, a transformation.

"Otis" and "Sophie"

2011-07-09T10:43:00.000-07:00

6x8 oil on canvas - both SOLD

Here's some of the latest pets that I've painted. They were such fun to paint. Otis is an English Bulldog and I couldn't resist painting that face. Sophie, well a blue eyed beauty. I have many more in the works and will share soon. If you want a commisioned painting of your loving pet you can email me at thepaintedcanvas@cox.net

"Owl Be Seeing You"

2011-06-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

16x20 - oil on canvas (detail shown)

I've been retouching this painting that I previously posted. He looks ten times better to me. I still need to sign it. I'm going to send this to the 60th Central Adirondack Art Show in Old Forge, NY. My husband is from there and his mom still lives on 4th Lake. It's been a long tradition for our family to meet there every summer for a couple of weeks. I always visit the art center to view all the wonderful paintings. I thought I'd send one this year, as they are opening for the first time their brand new building. I thought it fitting to send one of my birds that I've been working on. He has a long journey, so I'll make sure I get a picture or two with me in front of him at the show.

"Nuthatch"

2011-06-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

9"x12" oil on canvas

This is a white-breasted nuthatch. I'm enjoying painting winged species these days. The texture of the bark was a fun challenge. I even attempted to make my initials look as though they're carved in the tree. I think a little highlight will make it pop more.

"Miss Cindy"

2011-05-30T18:36:00.000-07:00

8"x10" oil on canvas panel

This is my cousin's greyhound, Cindy, that they helped find a new home for. She was a lovely subject to paint. Yes, more practice for me...I hope her new parents will like her.

Just a couple of birds...

2011-05-28T11:47:00.001-07:00

16x20 "Owl be Seeing You"

16x20 "Hawk Eye"

I had so much fun painting these two birds. I'm enjoying my new "winged" friends and see lots more fluttering happening in my studio. I've been busy working on several paintings and will post as I finish them. Lots of ideas have been pouring out of me...love that part of the creative process. Now I just need to keep up with the painting part.

"White Egret"

2011-04-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

9"x12" - oil on canvas

I did this in pastel in November and thought I'd give it a try in oil paints. I like this oil version much better. I'm really digging painting birds. I'm working on an owl that I'll post soon. He's a hoot!

"You Looking at Me?"

2011-04-27T13:50:00.000-07:00

8"x10" - oil on canvas

Thought I'd try my hand at painting a bird. This is a Lesser Goldfinch. I really enjoyed painting the detail on him, the feathers and eye area. I actually used some of my silver paint for the highlight on his beak.

"Eggs all in one..."

2011-04-05T19:39:00.000-07:00

6"x8" oil on canvas panel

This is the second painting I've done using this birds nest that I found with it's eggs. Fortunately, I took photos of it with the eggs in the nest as I had a few unfortunate egg destruction. From kids poking their fingers into them to my kitty eating one. I think I only have one or two left. You might not be able to see it, but I added silver and copper paint to the delicate interior of the birds nest. I enjoy painting birds nests and know there will be more to come...maybe I'll add a bird with the next one.

"Loon"

2011-04-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

8"x6" oil on panel - NFS

I forgot to post this painting I did for my girlfriend Kitty. Her family has a camp in Maine. She's a writer and loves to hear their songs as she sits on the porch writing away during the summer months. I thought it fitting to paint one and present it to her during my visit last October.

"The Colors of a Summer Night II"

2011-03-28T11:41:00.000-07:00

36"x18" diptych - oil on canvas NFS

This is a painting of a sunset I captured one summer over 4th Lake, Old Forge, NY...it's where my husband grew up, the Adirondacks. For the past 22 years this is where we spend our summer vacations. I hope our kids keep the tradition going when they have their own children. It's a beautiful peaceful place! We have many wonderful memories of family and friends there.

"City the Kitty" edited

2011-03-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

12"x16" oil on canvas

City the Kitty has his on fb wall. One of his moms, Lori Shepler, is a wonderful professional photographer and captures City doing a lot of silly stuff. About a week ago City posted on his wall that he wanted to see himself sketched or painted. So, I decided to take him up on it. After all, I did have a wonderful photo to go by. I'm very happy with the final piece and I believe City will be too. The back ground I layed down on the first try. That almost never happens. The bowl came last as I wasn't sure how to handle it. This is when I stopped thinking and just spread the paint and the magic happened. I had some left eye issues, but found my problem, placement of the highlight. This is why practice makes perfect, well almost. Lori is going to take our family pictures of us on the beach. I just need to set a date. Not that we have horrible weather here in OC, but spring seems like a good time for it.

I decided to let this painting rest for a week and went back to it and saw what my issues where. I'm very happy with the out come. I even put in copper paint in his eyes...only can appreciate it looking at actual painting.

"Mojo"

2011-03-06T14:29:00.000-08:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas SOLD

This is Mojo. He was a joy to paint. His owner is my cuz, well my cuz's wife, she's my family too. I might tweak his whiskers a bit more, but for now I feel he's complete and looking great. I think she'll approve.

I'm on to the next orange tabby and will post pictures of my process with that painting.

"Stacked" - edited

2011-02-20T16:37:00.000-08:00

6"x8" oil on canvas panel

I wanted to experiment with painting sand. I found these stones at Laguna Beach. I love to look for small shells and wonderful stones to add to my jar. It was fun to paint and hope to paint sand, stones, and shells together again.

I realized the picture I had originally posted was not the finished piece. I take pictures sometimes just to see my progress. This is the final picture...I know the difference, plus I've signed it! :)

"Lola"

2011-01-08T13:20:00.000-08:00

12"x16" oil on canvas SOLD

Lola is Havanese and doesn't shed. That must be nice as my dog and cat shed. I had the pleasure to meet her to take a few pictures and she is sweet and full of personality! And yes, VERY, VERY soft!!

"Zephyr"

2010-12-24T10:45:00.001-08:00

11"x14" oil on canvas NFS

This is my niece Shannon's horse Zephyr. I took a bunch of pictures when we went to her barn during our visit Thanksgiving week. She had her fuzzy winter coat on. I'm giving this to her for her birthday.

"Chica"

2010-12-22T13:48:00.000-08:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas SOLD

This is my girlfriend Kitty's kitty. She's has wonderful markings and lots of whiskers. Those were the most fun to paint. And as you can see she has a lot of attitude.

"Surprise Pond"

2010-12-01T14:26:00.000-08:00

12"x16" oil on canvas

This is from a photo I took while on vacation this summer in the Adirondacks. I actually got in a canoe with my husband to get close ups of the lily pads and flowers. Artists can go to many extremes to get a great shot for a painting. These pads after a while drove me crazy. I had to take a lot of breaks. They remind me of Pacman, only green. Not painting anything soon that's green.

"Who Needs A Rake?"

2010-12-01T14:02:00.000-08:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas

This is Malcolm. Another animal first. He is yet another barn yard friend of my friend Lisa. She told me that goats are great leaf eaters. They're like potato chips to them. I think my parents could use a couple of goats as they are constantly raking leaves in the fall. He was fun to paint and the photo I had really didn't have a leaf in his mouth, but after hearing the story I added it. I think it gave him character.

"The Magic of Merlin"

2010-11-19T13:30:00.000-08:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas

Another first for me! I painted this gorgeous rabbit who I've been told was a ginormous bunny. I didn't get the pleasure to know him personally, but I feel I felt his spirit while painting him. He unfortunately didn't make the heat over this past summer back east.

"Sprinkled with Sugar"

2010-11-13T10:26:00.000-08:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas

This is Sugar. She's my cousin's cousin, Lisa's barn cat. She took a wonderful photo of her that I just had to paint. I loved her expression. I'm extremely happy with the finished painting. Love all the color! Did I forget a color?

"Miss Ruby"

2010-11-12T07:44:00.001-08:00

8"x10" oil on canvas

Another kitter I just finished painting. Ruby is a sweet and friendly cat I befriended at my girlfriends while visiting in October. I was missing my own cat and she kept me company. She posed perfectly for a candid shot.

"T-Bear"

2010-11-10T16:54:00.000-08:00

8"x8" oil on gallery wrapped canvas

I have a few "putty tats" I've been painting. This is the first one of three (at the moment). This one is for my cousin, Tim and his wife Kelly. T-Bear was my cousins favorite kitty and it was a pleasure to paint him for them. Tim will be seeing this for the first time here on my blog as Kelly and I have been working together behind the scenes to get him painted. So much for a Christmas gift, lol! Thanks Kelly!! love you both!!

"Big Tomato"

2010-11-01T16:19:00.000-07:00

5"x5" gallery wrapped canvas

This is a painting I did of a girlfriend's tomato she grew in her garden. It was a whopping 1 1/4 lbs., that's huge! It was fun to paint as it was a colorful fellow, nothing like a home grown tomato.

"Pearfect Company"

2010-09-20T12:43:00.001-07:00

10"x8" oil on canvas

My husband was going to the grocer so I asked him to pick-up two red Bartlett pears. This is all he could find, Starkcrimsons. I'm very pleased with the finished piece. I didn't tone my canvas because I was anxious to start a new painting so it took many layers of paint. Lesson learned. So, now when I'm not feeling too creative I tone a few canvas' so this won't happen again.

"Hold On"

2010-09-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

6"x4 1/2" oil on canvas board

A little trial of a dragonfly. It looks better in person, but that is usually the way paintings are. Might tweak later, but for now leaving him alone to just...hold on.

"Ben" - edited

2010-08-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

12"x12" oil on gallery wrapped canvas

This is my first time painting a horse and I was very impressed how quickly I finished. I might have to attempt another. I certainly enjoy the challenge of painting something I've never painted...might have to do it again.

August 28 - Tweaked this painting today as I wasn't totally happy with it. This is what happens when you leave something along for several days. He's much softer now. He's now ready for his owner.

"Room no. 6"

2010-06-27T12:45:00.000-07:00

3 1/2" x 5" oil on canvas panel

This is a small skeleton key I borrowed from my sister. It's fun to paint these little antique pieces. I painted the key first on a black background really not sure what to do with the background. I ended up using a glaze of yellow ochre and then lightening the key up a bit for it to pop. I'm going to hammer one of my real old square nails into this painting as well. Down to 2 nails left.

"Free To Go"

2010-06-21T14:03:00.000-07:00

8"x6" oil on panel

I had a different title for this painting, but Megan came up with this title and it stuck. I think I'm pretty much done with this. Maybe a few small detail touches on highlights and of course my signature. This was fun to paint; I actually love to paint antiques. They have a history I can't see. My sister will be glad to know I painted it as I borrowed this lock and key from her. I also have a skeleton key from her. I should paint that so I can give them both back to her this summer.

Barn and Found Wood Frames

2010-06-16T12:26:00.000-07:00

I wanted to show how I used barn and found wood and objects to frame some small paintings I previously posted. It's just a unique way to showcase my work. Not sure if you can see it in the photos just below, but I put actual old nails in the paintings. If you see and read my previous post you can get a better view and read where the nail comes from. I actually have 3 nails left and not sure yet how I'll use them.

6"x8" oil on panel ~ "a key to it all"

2"x6" oil on panel ~ "golden key"

8"x6" oil on panel ~"hugs and a kiss"

8"x6" oil on panel ~ "lucky shirt"

"Ladybug"

2010-06-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

6"x1 1/2" oil on panel - on found bark

My husband helped me one weekend finding objects I could use as frames or incorporate into my paintings. He climbed the hill in front of us and brought back old fence pieces, barbed wire, bark from the ground. Little by little I've been incorporating them, even creating the painting for them; like this piece. It's just something fun and different to do. Trying to think green.

"P-Dan"

2010-06-05T15:55:00.000-07:00

9"x12" - oil on canvas SOLD

Photo doesn't do her justice. I can't wait to deliver to two of them to the owner next week. I always love seeing clients expression. That's why I paint; to make others happy.

"Turtle"

2010-06-04T12:37:00.000-07:00

12"x9" - oil on canvas SOLD

Turtle is finished and her sister, P-Dan is coming along great. Will post her soon. I'm just giving her a tune up.

2010-03-06T10:48:00.000-08:00

8"x10" oil on panel ~ "the Key to it all"

6"x8" oil on panel ~ "Hugs and a Kiss"

A couple of small paintings I've finished recently. My cuz sent me 5 old rusty nails and I've been having fun incorporating them into my paintings. The rocks are from a litterally rocky beach in Santa Barbara and of course I needed to take a few interesting ones home to paint. The backgrounds were painted, hmmm probably a year ago and never knew what to paint on them, until now. I like when things work out like that. You do something and you're not sure why and then you figure it out. Sounds like life!! Enjoy!

"Audit" and "Syntax" (edited photo of Syntax)

2010-01-29T10:52:00.000-08:00

10"x8" oil on canvas - complete

I look forward to hearing how these go over as a gift.

"Audit"

2010-01-24T16:12:00.001-08:00

10"x8" oil on canvas - in progress still???

This is just one of two dog commissions that I'm finishing up on. They're both long haired Dashunds, this one is Audit and the other one that I'll post real soon is Syntax. Love the names. They've been a fun challenge for me. Unfortunately, they have both gone to doggy heaven so I think they'll be touched when they get these as a gift.

"Curtis' Cottage"

2010-01-10T09:46:00.000-08:00

6"x8" oil on canvas board

This is a little cottage on 4th Lake, Adirondacks that used to be owned by my husband's aunt Jean. After her passing a really nice family bought it and fixed it up. It has a pond view to the left as well as the lake view. It would have been nice to have purchased it but managing the little house living here in CA would have been impossible. We're so glad the Curtis' own and gave it TLC. This was another building practice, I tried to remain loose. I might tweak it a bit a more. This will be delivered to the Curtis' this summer.

2010-01-10T09:31:00.000-08:00

8"x10" oil on canvas board - final framed

We bought a new camera charger just in time to take last photo before shipping off the finished painting of Regina.

"Regina"

2010-01-04T15:40:00.000-08:00

Regina past this New Year! I can't imagine the sadness Gloria is going through. I hope, however, that I was able to capture Regina the way Gloria remembers her...I'll post a final picture soon. It seems we lost the only camera charger so I might be taking the last pic with my Blackberry....stay tuned!

"Regina"

2009-12-27T08:56:00.000-08:00

8"x10" oil on canvas board - in progress

This is a commission that I've been working on for the last couple of weeks. She's been a joy to paint. I wanted to post after I put her whiskers on. They don't come alive to me until that point. This photo is the closest to the correct color but on the bottom left there is a little glare. I'm working with the owner to capture Regina's likeness, as I'm using several photos, some when she was younger and current pictures.

"Tuffy" and "Hildie Mae"

2009-11-28T10:53:00.000-08:00

8"x10" oil on canvas panel

These are two commission pieces I've just finished. They were fun to paint, but did have a hard time starting. I wasn't sure of the outcome so I had to just jump in. I didn't drown after all! I might tweak them a little bit but other than that they done.

"Twisted"

2009-11-18T07:19:00.000-08:00

15"x30" oil on canvas - in progress

This is a much better photo than the last. I finished the starry night and even added a shooting star. I'm thinking the bottom area is missing something, maybe another branch. I thought about adding a black crow but my daughter made a face, that's what I get from talking out loud.

"Twisted"

2009-11-17T07:40:00.000-08:00

15"x30" oil on canvas - in progress

This has been a fun painting to paint. I'm very pleased with it's outcome so far...almost done. I was reallly scared to add those branches, but once I started the transformation was amazing to see. Yesterday I started to add the stars. Almost done.

"Twisted"

2009-11-13T12:15:00.000-08:00

15"x30" oil on canvas - in progress

I have this painting visualized but for some reason I'm painting very slowly. I think there's a little fear I could screw it up. As you can see from the photo I have A LOT more detail to add. I'll continue to push my brush around on this.

"Happy Faces"

2009-11-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

9"x12" oil on canvas

I'm still working on my tree and commission piece, but I bought some sunflowers the other day and well, decided to do a quick painting of them. I like how they turned out. I've also started another painting of wine bottles. I like to have many paintings started as I get to choose which one I want to work on and when that painting needs to dry I grab another one. And if I'm not in the mood to do any of the ones I started, well I'll start another. Of course, sometimes a painting will sit for a long time and I'll revisit it and it turns out great. Enjoy!

"Twisted"

2009-11-07T13:36:00.000-08:00

15"x30" oil on canvas - in progress

I recently started this painting of a cool tree I took a picture of when I lived in Northern California. I've been wanting to paint it and well finally just went for it. I always see a finished version of my paintings, so this one has been challenging me. I want to get real detailed but yet I love how it looks loose. I would love another artists' opinion...thanks!

I've also been working on another commission piece but wasn't too sure about posting it. I need to ask permission just in case...don't want to spoil a surprise! I also have started a sunflower painting; they so sunny and bright and let's not forget how long they last in a vase.

"Luke Walton's LA Laker's Ball"

2009-10-30T14:04:00.000-07:00

16"x12" oil on canvas

My basketball(s) are finally signed, yay! Unfortunately, this past July's event was cancelled. So, this painting will have to wait until next July. I hope I don't miss the event next year as I go back east about the same time this will take place. It would be great to have a photo op with Luke and the painting. I painted two basketballs, and he was generous to sign both. I'm planning on donating it for a silent auction to raise money for a local school.

"Sea Treasures"

2009-10-30T13:16:00.000-07:00

5"x7" oil on paper

Each of these are 5x7 and will be framed individually. I'm having fun painting on paper. If I screw up I can throw it away. I have a series of fruit that I'm going to do and will possibly hang them in my dining room. I still have a blank wall and wanted a grouping of small paintings so thought this would be fun.

"Corks"

2009-10-30T12:56:00.000-07:00

8"x6" oil on canvas board

I have a few people asking me to do wine paintings. So, I started with the cork and working myself up to to the bottle. I did this one last week. I did have great plans to make them more realistic, but they had a mind of their own. Sometimes you have to listen to the painting. Lately I've been painting on black painted backgrounds. I might experiment and paint them another color. For now the black is working for me.

San Francisco, Part 2

2009-10-26T17:25:00.000-07:00

My lovely friend, P.K., she's gorgeous!!

Her lovely shoes...

Left to right: Pete, Airic, P.K., and me, Cheryl

Meeting a new artist friend, Airic

P.K. and I, I'm feeling a little short, I'm not wearing 4" heels only wearing 2" boots, lol!

My new artist friend, Pete. He's a wonderful person, 14 years younger than I, ugh! But what a gentleman...he's going to make a wonderful husband and father to a lovely gal, real soon!!!

Just a morning view from where I stayed...Don's place, thanks honey!

P.K. , Debbie and Pete

The first time meeting, having a great lunch!

Just a fun view of SF!

San Francisco Weekend, Part 1

2009-10-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

Left to Right: Charles (birthday boy), Don, Pete and P.K.

I had an amazing experience this past weekend. I painted a commission piece "Shui" (pronounced "shwee") for my friend P.K's friend Don's boyfriend for a birthday gift. There's so many details, but to make a long story short, I ended up going along with her to SF and met all her wonderful friends, who are now mine as well.

Don gave Charles a surprise birthday party and above are a few pictures of him opening the commission painting I did for him. Charles was so excited that I believe he became quite emotional over the piece, making me tear up as well. WOW, it overwhelms me that something I created/painted gave so much joy to someone! And that is why I paint...

"California Poppies"

2009-10-19T16:45:00.000-07:00

6"x8" oil on panel

Just a little painting all about poppies. I had lots of fun with this, again just experimenting. Might go back in and tweak a little, wouldn't be me if I didn't, hehe! Enjoy.

"Shui"

2009-10-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

20"x20" oil on gallery wrapped canvas - COMPLETE!

I believe this is complete. I know myself though that I'll study it and tweak here and there for a bit. I found the perfect spot to photograph this. The colors came out pretty accurate. Well, onto the next project.

Here's a few things I've been working on...

2009-10-06T11:37:00.000-07:00

"Pink Peonies" 36"x24" oil on canvas - complete

My mom has been patiently waiting for this. I have to let it go. Sometimes it feels like it's not complete, in this case, but after leaving it alone, for a long time, it's done.

"The Brown Family Home" 16"x12" oil on canvas - complete

This was a commission piece that I literally had to paint in 3 days because it was an anniversary gift and I had to ship it to Atlanta. I did my best in that time frame. I wish I had had more time. They were happy with it and at the end of the day that's what you want to hear. Imagine that, it's not about me.

"Shui" 20"x20" oil on canvas - in progress

This is a commission of Shui a Chihuahua. I'm still working on her, the photo came out more blue than actual painting. I'll get a better pic when it's finished. I've been enjoying this dog portrait. This is my first larger piece since starting with animal portraits. The others I've painted have been 6x8, so this has been a blast. I'm enjoying animal portraits, I just wish I had a few more to do.

"To Russia With Love"

2009-10-03T09:44:00.000-07:00

16"x12" oil on canvas - complete

I've been very busy painting. I just completed two commission pieces that I'll post later and I'm working on another one. I can't wait to share those. I haven't posted because of computer problems (bought a new one), also my camera is dead (fell in a river) and have to use other resources for taking pictures at this time. The above picture was from my Blackberry. I just couldn't wait to post again. I've been using my daughter's camera, unfortunately she's away this weekend with her camera.

I loved this challenge of painting metal. So many interesting colors bounced off, plus paint chipped areas. A great study for me. I might take another pic as I'm not sure how this will post.

"To Russia With Love"

2009-08-28T12:07:00.000-07:00

16"x12" oil on canvas (in progress)

Here is another painting I've been working on. This is called a Russian Kettlebell. I actually use a 26lb. weight with my trainer, Paul Daniels, RKC. If you go on utube you'll find many fun examples of training with this weight. Mind you, I'm still in the beginning stages of handling one of these. It's a lot of work, but I love the challenge! I highly recomend trying it out!!

"Plymouth Sunset"

2009-08-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

9"x12" oil on canvas - sold

My mom asked if I'd paint this for my Uncle Bobby's birthday. So I did. I have a little bit more tweaking to do, but for the most part it's done.

"Bug Likes to Fetch..."

2009-08-16T14:44:00.000-07:00

"Luke Walton's LA Laker's Ball"

2009-08-09T16:36:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been two months since my last post. Kids keep me busy, plus I was gone for two weeks vacationing in the Adirondacks, NY. I've been painting and will post my other paintings I've been working on soon. But here is the one I've been challenged with...

16"x12" oil on canvas in floating black frame

This is the painting I've been working on for a while. It's almost complete. It just needs a signature from LA's Laker Luke Walton #4 on the upper portion of the ball. It's going to be a door prize for a United Way event that is held just for Tocqueville Society members and their children who make an incremental gift to OC's United Way. It's been a privilege to paint this. I thought I'd miss the event because of my vacation, but they ended up moving it back. It will be great to get a pic with him but I think he'll need to bend down to my 5'2" level. LOL!!

Bug Knows...

2009-06-12T15:39:00.000-07:00

living room couch

on my paintings

this isn't as comfortable as the living room chair...

closet, usually on my hubby's clothes

the living room chair no one sits in, but him

clean pile of clothes

my studio chair

My kitty, Bug, finds the best places to take a nap or relax. Thought I'd share them with you.

I have been painting; I'm just not ready to post what I've been working on. Maybe next week.

"Golden Key"

2009-05-18T16:14:00.000-07:00

1 3/4" x 6" oil on canvas panel - SOLD

This was a commission piece for my friend, P.K. I'm still adding highlights and such. The colors didn't come out as they actually are in my painting. The key is much more vibrant and the background is much more of a warmer brown. I'll repost it in better lighting once it's totally complete. If you haven't noticed that I didn't paint a nail holding it. This key is actual size so I'm going to be adding an actual nail into the painting.

"Bug" in progress - EDITED - complete!

2009-05-04T11:24:00.000-07:00

8"x6" oil on canvas panel

I love how this painting came together so quickly. I painted 30 min. at a time and then let it dry, except for the last one. Working on the details took much longer. I think I like the simplicity of it. The lighting is my favorite, in fact, I was going to give the back ground color, but I'm going to keep it black. I worked on the details after posting it earlier today. I believe it's complete at this point, but will check back with it tomorrow. I know I'll tweak something and of course I need to sign it.

"Bug"

2009-05-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

8"x6" oil on canvas panel - in progress

Lately I've been enjoying painting dog portraits that I recently donated a pet portrait to my daughter's school for a silent auction. I look forward to seeing what kind of dog or cat I'll be painting (or other animal). As you can see I've started a new portrait painting of my kitty, Bug. I wasn't happy with the first one I started. I really liked this photo and wanted to capture the wonderful lighting. I'll post this painting in its progress.

My Favorite Bug!

2009-04-15T13:28:00.000-07:00

My LoveBug is now 8 months old. He was so tiny when we brought him home. Shhh, he still thinks he's a dog. Here he is keeping me company in my studio.

I've been finishing a few paintings. I've also started a few new ones as well, I'll post them when they start to look good. I also have another painting, yet to start, that I'm going to donate for an awesome cause. I'll post that one when I'm allowed. Hmm, secrecy!

"Maya Moo" Edited

2009-03-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

8"x6" oil on canvas panel - complete!

Here's my friend's other Chihuahua, Maya. P.K. loved the paintings!!

"Brooklyn" - complete!

2009-03-17T09:35:00.000-07:00

6"x8" oil on canvas panel

This was a fun painting, I tried to keep it loose. Which is no easy task for me. Now I just need my friend to give me the thumbs up. I'll be painting Maya Moo next.

Family Photos - Adirondacks 2008

2009-03-12T16:45:00.000-07:00

Matthew hugging his Mom

Megan and Matthew (not fighting)

Megan with Dad; not so little anymore

I can't believe it's already March. It won't be long before we're back to the Adirondacks for our annual summer trip visiting family and friends. I so enjoy the mountain air, especially after a summer thunderstorm! My husband grew up on 4th Lake in Old Forge, NY. It's hard to believe that I've been visiting this place for 20 years. It doesn't seem like that amount of time has passed. The kids' will have so many great memories to cherish as they grow older. I hope that one day that they can enjoy this wonderful place with their families.

"Chelsea"

2009-03-04T08:20:00.001-08:00

8"x6" oil on canvas panel - SOLD

This is a commission I just finished for my neighbor. Chelsea is an Australian Shephard. She's a beautiful dog! I really enjoyed painting this, as this painting literally flowed off my paint brush. I wish they all would do that. I have a little bit more tweaking to do, like adding a few more fine hairs around the muzzle.

"Laguna Keyhole"

2009-02-26T10:06:00.000-08:00

12"x9" oil on canvas panel - in progress

Over this past weekend I attended a one day workshop with Greg LaRock and he was so kind to critique this painting for me. He gave me some great tips. So, I've been working on this to get the atmosphere right and get my water to "lay down" the way it should. It's slowly getting there.

"Shadow Boxing"

2009-02-25T19:07:00.000-08:00

16"x12" oil on canvas - Finally complete!!

I'm happy how this came out. Adding the hightlights and details always makes a difference. I loved painting the old leather. The color is pretty acurate in this photo. I did sign it to the left, but softened it as my eye directly went to it.

"No Stopping Any Time"(Crystal Cove)

2009-02-25T18:45:00.000-08:00

8"x6" oil on panel (in progress)

My friend P.K. and I went to Crystal Cove a couple of Fridays ago. It turned out to be windy on the beach so we set up in front of the strip of old garages where the wind didn't blow. We of course had lunch first at the Beachcomer Cafe, yum! I did a color study not thinking I'd continue on with it, but once in the studio I dabbled with it and this is how it's coming. I love the character of these old buildings. This pic is a little blurry. I think I'm starting to get my groove with plein air painting. Practice, practice, practice!

"Pearing Up"

2009-02-13T13:32:00.000-08:00

8"x6" oil on canvas panel

Finally complete. Added highlights and bruising, as all things aren't perfect!!

Friends!

2009-02-07T10:25:00.000-08:00

P.K. (she's a beautiful person inside and out) and I

Miya (Moo) and Brookline - very entertaining duo!

My new friend, P.K. and her two girls, Miya and Brookline came to visit. I met P.K. at my last workshop and we hit it off. She is a very talented artist! It's wonderful to share our passion for art, along with our life stories. Of course, much laughter was involved!! We origninally had plans to plein air paint on Friday, but it rained. So, we went and had our toes painted instead, had great conversation with wine, and a homecooked meal, compliments of my hubby. Her girls got along with my girl, Roxy. My boy, Bug, just wanted to play, kitty with claws and eyeballs are not a good mix. P.K. is planning to move to Ireland this year. Our plan is to get out together and paint as much as possible. My heart is already sad, but it's all good! She'll remain my friend, always!

April Showers!!- updated

2009-02-05T17:21:00.000-08:00

April is the weirdest month for me! April holds the most friends I know for a month that have a B-Day! I must draw Arians towards me some how. (Added one)

April 2 - Wendy, neighbor/friend
April 3 - Samantha, niece
April 4 - Old (real old) boy friend, Bob
April 5 - Paul, friend and awesome exercize instructor
April 10 - Kristen, neighbor/friend
April 10 - Dave, friend of hubby and mine
April 11 - Tim, husbands best friend and mine
April 14 - Patty, best friend
April 15 - Monique, best friend
April 16 - Aunt Mary, on husbands side
April 19 - Kitty, my other best friend
April 20 - Scott, husband
April 20 - Winnie, mother-in-law
April 26 - Kory, neighbor/friend

Whew, I might have missed someone, ya think?

Busy Finishing!

2009-02-05T09:49:00.000-08:00

12"x9" oil on canvas panel - "Laguna Key Hole" in progress

This is one of the other paintings that I liked from the last workshop I took. I made a color study, took pictures and worked on it in the studio. I think I like this process. It fits with my technique. I have a little bit to go. I might re-visit this area again, it was very pretty, and relaxing.

8"x6" oil on canvas panel - "Pearing Up"

This just needs a little more hightlights and then it's done.

5x7" oil on panel - "Laguna Sky"

8"x6" oil on canvas panel - "Grape Scott"

Again, same thing, needs a little more hightlights.

My Lovebug

2009-02-04T17:44:00.000-08:00

This is my 5 month, almost 6 month old, Bug. I've posted him before. He really thinks he's a dog. He plays fetch with me in the morning while I have my coffee. I throw, what used to look like a mouse, and he returns it right to me, usually jumping onto my lap and dropping it. I grew up with cats and never had one fetch before. He even plays with my dog who's 5 times his size. He's a charmer!

Busy Painting!

2009-01-31T11:32:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in a while, but I have been very busy painting. Here's just a few that I've been working on. I have three more that I'll post soon.

5"x7" canvas panel - in progress

This was one of the paintings I had started during my last plein air workshop. It looked nothing like this. I took a picture and I've been working on it in the studio. I guess that's where I feel most comfortable. Not that I'm going to stop painting plein air. I'm more comfortable getting a color study vs. something finished. I have another painting that I liked that I've been working on as well. I'll post that soon.

8"x6" oil on canvas panel - "Grape Scott" in progress

Still working one grape at a time on this one. The grapes are starting to get that glow that I want to capture.

16"x12" oil on canvas - "Shadow Boxing" in progress

I still need to work on this one a bit more. I like how the leather is looking. The actual painting is much warmer than this photo.

A Few Small Paintings

2009-01-15T11:05:00.000-08:00

8"x6" oil on canvas panel - "Grape Scott" in process

I thought I'd show a few small paintings I've been working on. The title of this piece, well, my husband's name is Scott and I couldn't think of anything else. The grain of the wood has been fun to paint. I'm daunted by the grapes. But, I'll take it one grape at a time...

8"x6" oil on canvas panel - "pearing up" in process

I love painting pears. It's been a while since I've painted them. I love the yellow-green pears with the soft red blending through the skin. It's always a fun challenge to capture the soft dots on the skin.

8"x6" oil on canvas panel - "Bug" in process

It was hard to capture a great photo of my 5 month old. He finally stopped moving to allow me to photograph him. I'm not sure if this will be the last painting of my little bugger. It's not the most creative pose. But, it's not a blurrrr like the other shots.

"Shadow Boxing" in progress

2009-01-14T11:29:00.000-08:00

16"x12" oil on canvas

I'm liking how this is coming along, almost done. I've started a few new small pieces in between the drying time for this. I wish I could figure out how to paint wet on wet. I try but always pull off the color. I have another plein air workshop next week and I hope I can focus on being loose and learn to paint wet on wet. Habits are hard to break. Not that I'm trying to change the way I paint but, I truely enjoy trying new aproaches to painting. The end result can be awesome (or disappointing). The fact that I give it a whirl is what counts in the end.

"Shadow Boxing" in progress

2009-01-05T12:30:00.000-08:00

16"x12" oil on canvas

Underpainting complete, now for the fun part! I'm not sure if I want to keep the brush strokes loose or get tight with it. I guess the brush will guide me.

"Shadow Boxing" in progress

2009-01-03T13:36:00.001-08:00

16"x12" oil on canvas

I've been kick boxing since last May, and I love it!! Yes, this turned into another one of my goals...bikini this summer! I know, I know, your saying what, at your age! Why not. I came across a photo of an old pair of boxing gloves and thought it fitting to paint them. I'll show you this painting in its entire process.