Three Sons

The beginning of a painting is always exciting for me. In fact I think I like the beginning and the end the best. Probably because the in between time is where all the hard work comes into play. Of course, nothing good comes in life unless a lot of hard work is involved.

PATINA ~ Home, Garden, Art and Custom Framing

PATINA, a lovely frame shop located in historic Covington Tennessee, now has my nativity prints for sale. They also have some amazing frames that look spectacular when paired with them. This shop is a great place to check out. You should see the ceilings and wood floor. Such character. I enjoyed my visit and look forward to going back. Patina is located at 109 West Pleasant Avenue in Covington TN. To contact the shop call (901) 475-2229.

Angel Sketch

I love painting these very impressionistic, flowing angels. The swirls of paint and pencil suggest such wonderful movement. Paintings should never be stiff. I am drawn to paintings that have beautiful movement in the brushstrokes. I think we all are.

The Legacy Of Grandchildren~ The Finished Painting

Here is the finished painting. What a challenge! This painting has helped move me through a difficult time in my life. It seems this year has been filled with a lot of sorrow and loss. I have had to answer some tough questions about my own faith. Do I love the Lord simply because of what He does for me? Am I expecting Him to be my big genie in the sky giving me whatever I desire? Or do I love Him because He is God and I am not? He commands the universe and I do not. I love the Lord for who He is, not for what He does for me. I love Him because He is my hope. Hard times will come and go, but the Lord will never leave me or forsake me. What a wonderful comfort that is.

Look Closely And You Will See There Is An Angel Watching Over Me

I have just listed this painting on my website. It measures 14x14 with sides that are 1 1/2" deep. The sides are finished and so there is no need for framing. The angel glows! It is one of those paintings that draws you in and keeps you there. And yet it is so simple. It is the simple things that are usually the most profound!

The Legacy Of Grandchildren~ A Painting In Progress

I made myself take this picture. I kept saying to myself, "I'll finish that, then I'll take the picture and post." The reality is I want it perfect before I post it. But then it wouldn't be a work in progress. So I had to be firm with myself and take the picture. Now back to work. I am getting closer to the finish.

Nativity Giclee Prints Are Available

Due to the popularity of my Nativity paintings, for the first time ever I am offering high quality Giclee prints to my customers. They measure 8x10 not including the white border that surrounds it. It has been reproduced on exceptional watercolor paper. The colors are fantastic! There are only 20 being made from this painting, so each print will be numbered and signed. The introductory price is $40.00 plus $2.00 shipping and handling. The prints are for sale through my website, Etsy shop, and by contacting me personally. I am so excited!! Now back to the Grandchildren painting. I will post my progress on it next.

The Legacy Of Grandchildren~ A Painting In Progress

This is more of a close-up of the painting. I am still developing the faces. Once I am happy with the faces I will begin to develop their clothing and background.

The Legacy Of Grandchildren~ A Painting In Progress

So much to do and not enough time :)

I am trying to get ready for a Fall Frenzy event to be held in Brighton Tennessee this Saturday. I will have a booth displaying all of my artwork and gifts. At the same time I continue to develop this painting, so it's no wonder I may forget to post the photo's :)

The Legacy Of Grandchildren~ A Painting In Progress

The painting is starting to take on life. With so many faces to develop, it takes a little longer to see all the changes that I want to make. I am looking forward to seeing how it all comes together. The canvas is a 20x24. Back to work.

This is the very beginning stages of the painting. When I begin a painting I feel as if I am stepping onto a roller coaster ride. Buckle the seat belt and off you go. Once you are on the ride, you cannot get off until it is over. There are highs, lows, fast curves, moments of exhilaration, and moments of fear. At the end you step off, completely thrilled and excited. You did it! And then it starts all over with the next painting. The secret is that I love it and couldn't stop painting if I tried!

Miss Katie Is Finished!

I had so much fun finishing this painting. It just seemed to come together. There are many artists who call themselves self-taught. I used to believe that I was one. But now I wonder if it wouldn't be better to call myself God-taught. I know He is whispering in my ear as I work on my paintings. Encouraging me, teaching me. I know I am learning from the Master.

Miss Katie Returns

Back to work on Miss Katie. I am painting her on a textured panel that is perfect for capturing all the wonderful subtleties in her fur. She is looking good!

The Little Girls~ Finally Finished!

I am finished! I love the way this painting turned out. Once again the Lord has allowed my paintbrush to sing. May it sing His praises always. I know where my talent comes from!

The Little Girls~ A Portrait In The Making

Things are looking much better today. I am very pleased with the way the painting is coming along. I continue to pray, asking that my eyes may truly see and capture these sweet little girls. God has given me my talent and I want to use it to bless Him. Back to work :)

The Little Girls~ A Portrait In The Making

I know it has been a week since I've posted a picture. That is because the painting was not cooperating. After all, it is not supposed to look like the little girls have halloween masks on! Ugh! I know it will look great in the end, but there are days where I am afraid I am going to pull my hair out in the process. I wonder what it will look like tomorrow?

The Little Girls~ A Portrait In The Making

Sometimes I feel like a plastic surgeon. It seems as if I am always moving things around -eyes, nose, mouth, and sometimes the ear. Little changes here and there in order to capture the exact features and expression that I want. I am now listening to a book that I adored as a child. "The Little Princess". The woman reading the story has the perfect voice for it. This may be a childrens book, but it contains many character building truths. I am going to rest my eyes for now, and start again tommorrow.

The Little Girls~ A Portrait In The Making

Anytime a face is posed on an angle, it creates a challenge. It is funny how slightly tilting the features can change the perception. I have to watch myself. My eyes can play tricks on me. One of the little girls comes to my studio for art lessons, so I do have an advantage in knowing her. She has such a wonderful personality. The goal is to capture it.

The Little Girls~ A Portrait In The Making

I love the simple joys. In today's high tech world that may be hard to understand. As long as I can paint in my studio, with a cup of coffee, surrounded by things that inspire me, I am content. I also love to read. I have had a passion for books ever since I can remember. I am often torn between painting and reading. My solution has been to listen to audiobooks while I paint. I love hearing stories read to me as I work on my portraits. Since this portrait's subjects are two little girls, I have been listening to "Dancing Shoes" by Noel Streatfield. What a joy to revisit a story that I read as a girl. I am looking forward to making more progress on the painting today :)

The Little Girls~ A Portrait In The Making

I continue to develop both of the little girls. I always get excited when I can begin to see their faces emerge.

The Little Girls~ A Portrait In The Making

As so often happens in life, a detour needs to be made. I have had to put Miss Katie aside (just for a little while), to begin this portrait of these sweet girls. This painting is on an 8x10 canvas, which I think is an adorable size for intimate portraits of children.

The Making Of Miss Katie's Portrait

I begin to see Miss Katie's personality form. I am painting on a pastelboard which is a wonderful surface for acrylics. I love the way the paint looks on it.

The Making Of Miss Katie's Portrait

Miss Katie is a sweet little dog. I believe she has quite a personality. I have enjoyed getting to know her. I hope to capture a bit of her essence in this portrait. Now that I have shared about Miss Katie, I would like to share a little about her owner. There are people in this world who stand out in the crowd. Miss Katie's owner definitely stands out! I have been impressed by her character. There are very few people who posesses the unselfish love for others that I have witnessed in this wonderful lady. She has been a mentor to me. I hope that in time I may develop some of the traits that I so admire in her!

A Portrait's Journey Has Come To An End

Where do I begin? I am filled with joy at the completion of this beautiful painting. As I stare at it in awe, I know without a doubt that God is here. He guided my hand each and every step of the way. My heart is overflowing with thankfulness. I believe that a celebration is in order. Time for a Starbucks coffee break :)

A Portrait's Journey

Unfortunately, my camera did not take a very good picture but I am going to post it anyway. I continue to work toward my goal. I have figured out what needs to be done and I am getting very excited. Just a few hours more and I believe I can finish. I can hardly wait to see the results!

A Portrait's Journey

Now I feel I am making real progress. She is starting to look like I want her to. I will continue to refine, always striving for excellence.

A Portrait's Journey

Eric Maisel said "Love is the spirit that motivates the Artist's journey." Wow. Though this portrait is a commisioned piece, I am painting it out of love. I am going above and beyond because that is what I believe in. I am pouring everything I have into it. I want it to bring incredible joy to this family for many years to come.

A Portrait's Journey

I would like to quote Marisa Haedike "Personally, I reached a point where I could no longer ignore the life that was meant to be mine. Believe me when I say that I tried." She speaks of her art and desire to create. How those word resonate with me. I could not stop creating if I tried. It is so much a part of who I am. I continue to press on in this portrait's journey.

A Portrait's Journey

I continue to work through the challenges that this portrait is bringing. As I paint, I seem to learn so much about myself. You would think that as an artist I should have patience, and yet I get so frustrated with myself when I believe that the painting isn't progressing fast enough. I want to see certain results, and I don't see them just yet.

A Portrait's Journey

Something is still not right. I continue fine tuning, studying the photographs along with the painting. Why can't I see what is wrong. I will have to rest my eyes. I think they are in rebellion. I am so close. This is when I begin to pour everything that I am into the piece.

A Portrait's Journey

Now is when it starts getting difficult. I am a hard taskmaster. I don't want to stop for a break. I need to keep working. My poor family. I must remember that they still need to eat, and have clean clothes. But I can feel that I am getting closer to my goal, and yet at the same time I feel so far away from it.

A Portrait's Journey

I am starting to catch a glimpse of the young girls likeness. But it is still a ways off. I continue to turn the canvas, on it's side, upside down, anyone way I can to see it in a different light.

A Portrait's Journey

I am always fine tuning the painting. Little changes here and there as I begin to find the likeness. I can still walk away easily at this point and take a break. But very soon I will find that it has gotten under my skin and I will have to pull myself away. Even then I won't be able to stop thinking about it and what changes need to be made.

A Portrait's Journey

I continue to play around with my colors and composition. At this point I just want to begin to build depth.

A Portrait's Journey

Once upon a time I would never let anyone see one of my portraits until it was completely finished. It may sound crazy, but it was too personal. And yet, I enjoy watching the process as my fellow artists develop their portraits. It is fascinating to see the person come to life. I have decided to break out of my comfort zone, and share the journey that one of my portraits will take from start to finish. So let's begin~

An Artist And Her Family

This painting has been extremely difficult to photograph. I am not sure why, but I have never been able to take a photo that truly captures the colors and depth of this piece. The painting itself though, does capture the love that I have for my family. We are all deep thinkers, even the little one, and we are each lost in our own thoughts as we gaze out over the beautiful ocean in front of us. (That part the viewer just has to imagine :)

Enter Into His Rest

I believe that we all go through times where we would like to cry out "Stop the world I want to get off." It is in moments like these, that I realize there is an incredible place of peace and rest where I can go. All I have to do is enter into His rest and I will be refreshed. Peace and joy unlike anything I have ever known! This is my interpretation of what it might look like~

A Little Chairs Makeover

This sweet chair sits in my art studio. When I first found it at the Goodwill store it was in sorry shape. But I knew that with a little love and paint, it could be made beautiful. I painted the aged white finish first, but then decided it needed a little more. The touch of red wild roses is just right. I enjoy finding pieces, that though cast off by others, can be recreated into something lovely.

Beautiful Monterey California

I have lived in Tennessee for almost ten years and it has become home. But I also have a very special place in my heart for Monterey California. My family and I lived there for 18 months, and it was beautiful. This was the place where I began to paint portraits in earnest. This is one of the portraits that I did while there. The medium is soft pastel on velour paper. This portrait, when completed, was actually appraised by a Carmel appraiser for $1,500. I was thrilled. Of course I didn't get paid that much :). But after all, it was only my third portrait. It is still one of my favorites. I remember the feel of being on the beach when I look at it. I also remember the great sense of accomplishment I had when it was finished. What wonderful memories!

Watercolor Crayon Sketches

I have been doing some outdoor sketching. It is very different from painting in my studio. What a challenge! Imagine trying to capture a composition on paper while the sun is beating down, the wind is blowing, and two little girls have wandered up to ask every question imaginable. "Are you an artist? Why are you using those colors? Where do you live? Why do you use an easel? " That is just the beginning. I'm trying to be polite and answer all questions, while concentrating on my sketch and making sure the wind is not going to tear it away from me. All in all I think I did a pretty good job :)

My First Commissioned Portrait

This photo is not very good, and I hesitate to use it. But this was back before digital cameras and trying to get this photo into my computer has not been easy. This painting was done in pastels on velour paper. When we lived in Monterey California, a neighbor asked if I would do a portrait of her daughter on the beach. Since I was a little girl, I have been drawing and painting faces, but I never really cared to capture a true likeness. I told her that I really didn't paint portraits. I don't think I will ever be sure how it came about, but as you can see, I painted her portrait. It turned out so good that I amazed even myself. The word spread, and I was a portrait artist. I am so thankful for my neighbor. A whole new world was opened up and I love it! Unfortunately, I do not always seek challenges. I have to be pushed into them. I have done over 100 portraits! One day I will sit down and count them all. Who knows, I may find out it's even closer to 200. But what I do know is that each and every one is so very special to me~ pieces of my heart.

My Nieces~ An Impressionistic Study

I have two beautiful nieces. I love these little girls. I have enjoyed painting them quite a few times. What I like most about this painting is how much it captures the girls' essence. And yet there are virtually no details in their faces, just a hint. Once again it shows me that there is more to capturing who a person is than just copying their features. You must be able to catch a glimpse of their spirit on the canvas!

Thank You!

There have been so many people in my life that have encouraged me through the years to pursue my art. I cannot imagine where I would be without them. It is true that I have lost contact with some of them, but I have never forgotten. I am very grateful that they were a part of my life and I want to take a moment now and say thank you. I want to thank all my friends past and present who have cheered me on. I want to thank those in my family who have been an inspiration to me. I know that God put each one of you in my life. You were there at the exact moment I needed you. And most of all I want to say thank you to the One who has given me everything that I have. Where would I be without you? You are my everything!

Works From The Heart

With every portrait that I paint, the moment eventually comes where I present it to the family. They may never know, but they are getting a portrait of their loved one and more! They are getting a piece of me. I have poured my heart and soul into their painting. I have given my very best, the best that I have to give~ I can do nothing less. I am an artist, and I cannot create anything without putting everything that I am into it. My portraits are works from the heart~

My Oldest

My oldest son is now thirteen. Wow! I remember when he was in the little tikes swing on the back porch. He has shown up in my portraits over and over again. How could I not want to paint him? Not only is he a handsome young man, but his character is amazing. It comes through in his eyes. I love those eyes. When he is grown, I will always have my portraits to remind me of the many wonderful memories. I know that he is going to be an incredible young man~ I am looking forward to it!

Pencil Drawings

I enjoy creating all types of artwork, but during my teenage years I absolutely loved pencil drawing. I would spend hours drawing faces out of magazines, travel brochures, postcards, you name it. I taught myself how to softly shade the drawings to create the most depth. It seemed as if the eyes always captivated the viewer. I loved bringing out the expression in the eyes. When I look at my drawings from those years, I yearn to sit down with a handful of pencils and see what happens. I just need more time to do all the things I want to do :)

When The Brushstrokes Sing

I absolutely love impressionistic paintings. I adore looking through my collection of books on the Impressionistic painters ( when I'm not at the museum staring in awe). They knew how to make their brushstrokes sing! Recently my own artwork has begun to take on that impressionistic flair. At first I was a little afraid of just letting myself go, but it was so worth it. I have enjoyed painting in this style more than I ever thought I would AND when I look at the finished piece, I can hear the brushstrokes singing :)

My Voice

I am not always as eloquent as I would like to be. In fact there are so many times when I am frustrated by my lack of communication skills. I want to be the suave type, with the ready tongue. I want just the right words, at just the right moment. I don't like being tongue tied!

But when I paint, I have found my voice. My paintings speak from the depth of my soul. They express my hopes, dreams, anger, happiness. . . All of the emotions I have ever had or will have. My paintings speak louder and clearer than any words I could ever use. I have found my voice and I love it!!

Want To See More?

I wanted to share a little more of my art studio with you. It is such a special place! Almost everything in this room has either been created by me, or recreated in some way, shape, or form. Yes! I did paint my comfy office chair. I couldn't just use an ordinary grey one. When I go in here and close the door, I am at peace!

The Whole Picture

Too many times in my life I believe that I am seeing the whole picture, when I am not. I am such a finite creature, and yet I have convinced myself that I can see all there is to see. I may only catch a glimpse of a person but I make a judgement call based on a part, not the whole. I wonder what would happen if I were to broaden my perspective and realize that very rarely am I seeing the entire picture. There is so much more.

A Peek Inside My Art Studio~

Welcome to my art studio! This room is filled with my dreams! This is where I go when the world gets too crazy, and the news gets too bad. My sanctuary. I hope these pictures will inspire and refresh you!

But I Being Poor...

There are many things in my life that I have forgotten. So many times a friend will tell me about something I did that I don't even remember. Am I getting old :)

One of the things that has remained with me through the years is a quote I read in a book once. I would give anything to remember the name of the book , but I cannot. Here is the quote~

"But I being poor have only my dreams.

I have spread my dreams under your feet.

Tread softly, for you tread on my dreams.

Self Portrait

Once upon a time I was a little girl. I used to wear my hair in pigtails tied with big, fat yarn. It must have been a seventies thing. I only had a tiny photograph to work from while painting this portrait, but it wasn't all that hard because I felt I knew the features well. The eyes have changed the least. Still looking out in wonderment at the world all around. Perhaps they have changed some. They have been touched by suffering and loss. But they have also seen beauty and joy. In this life you cannot have one without the other. Deep down inside I will always be this little girl. I love this painting because it has captured so much of who I was and am today.

Fun With Sculpture

I was recently invited to the local library to do a sculpture demo and workshop for teens. I enjoyed it and was thrilled when I received this e-mail from one of the librarians. Obviously the teens enjoyed it too!

Chantel,

Thank you again for providing such a fine workshop for the Bartlett Library teens. I could tell they were really into their creative process, and I especially remember the two fellows sitting together, one creating a wonderful angel sculpture with a star on its head, and the other working on an artistic version of the Eiffel Tower (he wants to be an architect).

I loved how the participants were expressing something uniquely their own, and I appreciate your helping to show them how to do that.

Linda Scott

Umbrella Girl

This little umbrella girl is one of my favorite creations. She was inspired by watching the dedicated teachers at my son's school. Every morning, rain or shine, they stand out in the car line and open doors for the children as they arrive at school. How often I have watched them decked out in their yellow slickers and umbrella's. One day the inspiration came to me to create my "umbrella girl." She has appeared on t-shirts, framed drawings, notecards, and tiles. I love drawing her because each one has a unique personality. Here's to all the umbrella girls!

I am

We have all gone through times in our lives where nothing is going right. I have often thought to myself, I am tired, I am discouraged, I am lonely, I am hopeless, I am angry, I am lost, I am uninspired, I am a failure, I am fed-up. Going through my mental list, it was as if a light came on. God said "I am." That means that He can meet me wherever i am. He is the only one who understands every single feeling that I have ever had or will ever have. He is the only way that I can work through these feelings and come out on the other side. He is I am!

The Toparies- an impressionistic study

This 12x12 acrylic painting is so fresh and full of life. Even though it has been executed using very loose brush strokes, it pulls the viewer in and allows you to experience a light filled garden room. The potting table has been created using such vivid and fresh white strokes. The toparies are almost shining with the light that is spilling over them. I have always loved the impressionistic style. When I paint a painting such as this one, it really is pure joy for me.

Light Is Sweet

One of my favorite sayings is in Ecclesiastes. "Light is sweet; how pleasant to see a new day dawning. This lampshade that I created for my art studio represents this quote. It is such a sweet shade in and of itself. It has an incredibly light and airy feeling. The birds nests and bumblebees are reminiscent of a new day dawning. Every day is a fresh start. Yesterday's mistakes are over. We can begin again!

The Dreamer

I have a tendency to daydream. Yes, it is true! It is so easy for me to get lost in my own little artistic world. Most of the time I don't even realize I am doing it. I am always thinking about the next painting or project. This pastel painting was done while I was "daydreaming." What if I was wandering around a beautiful, secluded garden. Everything in it is perfect and lush. No weeds here. All of a sudden this amazing pair of old doors are in front of me. Where do they lead? There must be something even more amazing just beyond them. This is where I am going to stop and let you do a little daydreaming of your own. In a world that is so busy, a little daydreaming is bound to do some good!

A Glorious Day

This is one of my favorite paintings! I cannot remember the exact size, but it is huge. I could barely fit the canvas in my minivan. I love it because it is done in the beautiful bold style of impressionism. And yet, it is also very detailed. Looking at this painting makes me happy. What a glorious day for the little girl. Surrounded by her faithful friends on a beautiful sunny day. I can just feel the warmth pouring over her. The dogs are so fluffy and colorful. It is amazing how white is never just white. It is a color that reflects all the colors around it. Even though this little girl is now a teenager, this day remains timeless in the beauty of this painting.

Our Perspective

As an artist, perspective is a word that I have grown up with. I know the definition, but do I really know the definition. The dictionary defines perspective as~ a specific point of view in understanding or judging things or events. Our perspective on the world around us will define how we live. I know how I see myself, but what do others see when they look at me. I have often wondered. I tend to see all my flaws and shortcomings. What would it be like to see myself the way others see me? Would I find out that they have a more positive view of myself than I do? Or would I be shocked to find out that I have fooled myself into thinking I have it all together, and others see the reality. I want my self-perspective to be tempered with humbleness. I don't want to be overly critical. However, I want to always be open to seeing the true character flaws and correcting them. I want my self-perspective to be an accurate one!

When Something Beautiful Breaks

I love this handpainted vase! It is so beautiful, and yet so fragile. Recently I have had several beautiful pieces that I have created fall and break. When this happens, I clean up the broken pieces and fill the empty spot with something else that is beautiful. But what about when something beautiful breaks in our lives? I have lost something very meaningful and beautiful in my life. I have had to bend down and clean up all of the broken pieces. I have mourned the loss. In the midst of this I have been reminded of how I replace broken items with more beauty, and it has caused me to wonder. I believe that this broken space in my life has made room for something else of beauty to flourish. I am waiting on God. I know that He will bring something beautiful to fill this empty void.

Beautiful Colors

I love color! Even just looking at this photograph with all the frosted blues, and antique pinks and greens makes me happy. When I painted this tote bag I wanted to capture the feeling of free flowing wildflowers moving in the wind. A whole field of them for the eyes to feast upon. I want to marry my colors with really neat texture, like the canvas that this bag is made out of. Even though I adore painting on canvases to hang, I also want to bring art into everyday life items. That is why I enjoy painting t-shirts and tote bags (and anything else I can paint on). I admit it, I am a dreamer. I get lost so easily in my world of colors and textures. But it is so much FUN!

Are You Willing To Reach?

I was at the apple orchard with my boys and my oldest climbed up on the ladder and began to reach for the apples. My sister had her camera in tow and snapped a shot. The photo later inspired me to paint this painting. When I look at this painting an important life lesson comes to mind. There have been many times in my life when something wonderful is just in front of me. In order to have it though, I must reach out. I have lost opportunities because I have been afraid to reach out. What if I fail? My son kept his eye on his goal (the apple). He wasn't thinking about the things that could go wrong (such as falling off the ladder). He was thinking about the prize. I want to leave fear behind and keep my eyes on the prize!

Portraits From The Heart

God has given me not only a talent but a calling to use that talent in a very special way. I paint portraits of people who have passed away. The families don't always have the best photographs to give me. Sometimes it is just a handful of snapshots. It may be that the person wasn't too keen on having their picture taken and so the photo's are from years earlier. Whatever the reason I have to use my heart more than my head when I am painting these portraits. I have to analyze the photographs to really get a feel for who this person was. I cannot just copy features. I want to instill their spirit into the portrait. I want God to open my eyes so that I can put this person on the canvas the way they truly were. When the portrait is finished, I don't want it to resemble that individual. I want it to BE that individual. I am not just doing a portrait. I am pouring my own heart and soul into it. I am asking for a miracle so that I can capture a life for a family in pain. I am creating a work from the heart!

If I Just Let Go

I have been painting for over thirty years now. It never fails to amaze me that the paintings I try the hardest on, are the ones I am least pleased with. But when I can let go, and simply do what I was created to do, something wonderful happens. My paint brush begins to dance across the canvas. My heart is soaring and I feel God's prescence. I am free. There are no boundaries as I let my heart take over and the painting evolves into beauty I couldn't achieve no matter how hard I tried. When I step back from the canvas it is as if I am seeing it for the first time. Wow! Truly amazing things can happen when the heart is allowed to sing and dance the way the creator intended it to.

One Big Canvas

I will never forget the time that my husband and I were invited to a friends home for dinner. She was an artist. When I walked into her home I was spellbound. Everything was so beautifully arranged. She didn't necessarily have expensive items, but she knew how to put things together so that it captivated the eye. What an atmosphere of warmth and beauty. I asked her what her secret was. Did she have training in interior decorating? Her answer was so simple. I treat my home like it is one big canvas, arranging colors and patterns as I would in a painting. I can tell you that I went home that day determined to do the same. Beauty does not always mean expensive or trendy. I have learned to arrange the most humble objects in a way that makes them beautiful. My home has become one big canvas, and I love it!

Glorious Spring

I love the springtime. This year we have had quite a bit of rain. Though I don't much care for rain, it has left everything so lush and green. Such a beautiful green, I just want to drink it all in. One of my favorite things to paint are pots overflowing with lush green and gorgeous floral colors. A minature garden!

Honor the Mothers who have lost

We must never forget the Mother's who have had to endure the heartache and suffering of a child dying. Always be ready to offer a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, and an arm to lean on. You do not need to understand what they are going through in order to show love. More than anything, be ready to listen. As far as I'm concerned a listening ear and a loving heart is better than any advice you could give. Love them like Jesus. Never forget their precious children~ I want to honor just a few by sharing their portraits.

Father and Son

This painting is one of my favorite styles. I love having the loose impressionistic strokes while at the same time capturing the features of the little boy and his father. It really does look like them. So many of our photos would make absolutely wonderful paintings. Not only can the family enjoy this piece now, they will be able to pass it down to their children and grandchildren. Artwork is so meaningful when it is based on our own lives. I have done many paintings of my own children at different stages. I love being able to look at them as I walk into a room or down a hallway. A portrait can touch the soul!

The Twins

I finished this portrait in early March of 2009. The twins are around three years old. I absolutely love the way this painting turned out! When dealing with children it is always fun to capture their little hands and feet. They are so cute!! Someday when their feet and hands are much bigger, it will bring great joy to be able to look at this painting and remember. I wanted to capture their innocence, which is one reason that I love painting children wearing white. The little girls dress is timeless. I was told that this painting truly captured the children's personality. That is my goal and I was thrilled to know I had accomplished it!

Memories

So many of my little vignettes are made up of treasures that carry with them wonderful memories. The diet coke bottle is from Iceland. I actually lived there for a short time. I remember I saved it from a lunch I had at the Reykavick Hard Rock Cafe. The framed pencil drawing is one of my favorites. I was sixteen when I drew it. It is based on a photo that I took out of an Avon catalog. I simply wanted to capture the expression on the young womans face. The newspaper article was written about my art studio and gift shop. I had so many wonderful times there giving art lessons. I can only hope that I was able to inspire those young people. Art is used by many artists to further an agenda of darkness. I want to inspire artists to use their art to bring light into the world.

The Piano

This piano had seen better days when I first saw it. It was dark and dreary, and the finish was in bad shape. I found a book of vintage sheet music and the transformation began. My muscles and my neck were quite sore by the time I finished, but it was worth it. This piano is a delight for the eye. I may not be able to play the piano, but I certainly enjoyed giving it a facelift.

Broken Pieces

One day I broke one of my absolute favorite plates. As I stared at the broken pieces, my heart sank. It could never be put back together again. All of a sudden I was inspired. My Broken Pieces plates came out of that inspiration. Every plate that I have made has a story behind it. Here it is~

My life lay around me in broken pieces. It could never be put back together again. It would never be beautiful again. Helpless, and hopeless I lifted the pieces to God, not sure if even He could help me. He took those broken pieces and arranged them into a beautiful work of art. It was not the same as it had been before, it was a brand new and beautiful! Go ahead and see what He can do with your broken pieces~ it will amaze you.

A Place To Rest My Eyes

As an artist there is no doubt that I am a visual person. Color makes me happy. I love going into an art store and seeing all the colored pencils and chalks. I also love arranging vingettes in my home. I enjoy seeing different shapes and textures grouped together. And when I am tired and worn out, my eyes will come to rest on these bits of beauty. There can be so much ugliness around us, that when my eyes come to rest on beauty it renews my spirit.

Angel of the Garden

I love looking at this angel. She stands on the fireplace mantel in my kitchen. I have an overhead light that I can turn on, and it is as if light from heaven is pouring over her. I created her out of clay. While sculpting her I could envision this wonderful angel gracefully moving through the garden, scooping up flowers. She would be wearing a garden hat with scarf. There would be a wonderful old fashioned atmoshphere about her. When I get discouraged, she helps cheer me. Perhaps through her, God has given me a glimpse of the angels that are all around us.

Garden Of Dreams

I get so tired of the constant fear in the media. Sometimes I wonder if they dramatize just so that we will watch. I crave peace. I believe that we all do. When I look at this painting I am drawn in by the peace and beauty. I want to be the little girl taking in the beauty. Enjoying the simple pleasures all around me. All of a sudden my life has become a lot less complicated. At first I panicked and didn't know what to do. I wasn't used to this. But I am enjoying my place of rest and tranquility. It may only be for a short time, but it is good.

A Time To Reflect

How many times have I become lost in my own little world. It seems colors will catch my eye, or a composition in front of me and there I go again. Lost in thoughts and reflections. Dreaming of colors and textures. When I saw a woman sitting on the beach with a red hat, and water swirling all around her~ I knew I had to paint it. This could be anyone. Lost in the moment.