The Journal

This painting began in an open figure session where I was working from a live model. I liked it, but knew it needed more work.  After a few days in the corner of my studio, I finally put it back on my easel, and began the process of taking a study from life to a completed studio painting.  And when, exactly, is a painting complete????  I always refer to the quote by Paul Gardner, "a painting is never finished, it simply stops in interesting places"..

The Black Dress

This small oil study was painted in an Open Figure session . Doing 10 minute paintings forces you to  work fast and make quick decisions.  I know I could do more with this piece, but I like it just as it is .    

Jesse

 

This is a small oil study of my grandson Jesse.  It is painted on clear-coated linen, a surface I discovered recently.  I love the way it feels and looks, especially with my color palette.  Jesse is a little shy at times, and I feel this painting captures that.

Gabe

This is my older grandson Gabe or Gabriel as he now likes to be called. Again, I have used my favorite linen adhered to a wood panel.  Both paintings of my little guys were done "alla prima".  I find working this way keeps the painting fresh and not overworked.   Love those "blue eyes" !!

Down by the Wabash

This landscape was painted "plein air" along the Wabash River in the small town of New Harmony,
Indiana. Every year artists from all over come to participate in the annual New Harmony Paintout. It is held each Spring just when all the trees and flowers are beginning to show their color. Note the vibrant red tree in my landscape.
This particular painting won an award in the Paintout competition. It remains in my personal collection.

The Bedroom

This painting is part of my "red robe" series. A few years ago, when going thru some difficult times, I added "red robes" in many of my works. It represents my "heart".

This is one of my favorite paintings.

Walking in Sunshine

This painting was created from a photo session in my backyard. ,
Again my favorite models, daughter Nikko with Gabriel and Jesse playing in the sunshine. It was a beautiful,happy day.

Morning Story

This is another oil on linen painting of my daughter and her little boys. I love the intimacy of this pose, showing the special bond of mother and sons.

"Momma'a Locket"

This is my first post, so I chose a painting of my daughter Nikko and my grandsons that I painted about a year ago. This painting was exhibited in the IAC show at the Indianapolis Museum of Art.

It received an award and remains in my personal collection.