Amanda Carder

New Blog Site

2011-02-20T12:09:00.003-05:00

I am happy to announce that due to my recent marriage, I have chosen to make a name change. My Blog Site is now Amanda Lovett Studios and I invite everyone to join me at this new address. Since from this point forward all my postings will be at that location, I hope anyone who follows my posts or has me linked to their site will update my information. In addition, my web site will soon reflect similar changes.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Thanks,

-Amanda-

“A Single Rose”

2011-02-18T19:13:00.002-05:00

6” x 6” Original oil on Panel

I just love a good Challenge!!! Daily Paintworks Challenges

Click here to Bid on this painting

Family Roots

2011-02-17T11:25:00.000-05:00

"Family Roots"

48" x 36"

Oil on Canvas

Sold

A wife’s gift to her husband on his Birthday,

I love being able to be a part of surprises like this!

The DPW Challenge

2011-02-07T18:06:00.005-05:00

"Red Delicious"

2- 6" x 6 "

Oil on Canvas Panels

What fun! One of my students just told me Carol Marine has posted a new challenge category on the Daily Paintworks. It was a blast; it’s always nice to get away from the norm and “Just Paint"

Click here to Bid on this painting

My Niece and Merlin

2011-01-23T20:27:00.006-05:00

" Kelly and Merlin"

20" x 30"

Oil on Canvas

A tender young age, this is one of my favorite memories of my niece! She and the cat grew up to be quite exceptional! This was such a pleasure to paint!

Latest Commission

2011-01-13T13:25:00.002-05:00

"Rocky Point"

60" x 40"

Oil on Canvas

Sold

Being snowed in, in Atlanta is not always a bad thing; I have gotten quite a bit of painting done. This is my latest commission that will be hanging at North Georgia Medical Center.

Live Action for Challenge Child

2010-12-09T18:32:00.003-05:00

" Morning Light"

20" x 24"

Oil on Canvas

Sold

This past weekend I had the honor of having my work selected for the live Action portion of the Festival of Trees fundraiser for Challenge Child in North East Ga. http://www.challengedchild.org/

This black tie event, which is quickly becoming a holiday tradition for the Northeast Georgia community, is held each year at the Buisson Barn on Lake Lanier. As one of their top fundraisers it was a tremendous privilege to participate in.

Show in Aiken, South Carolina

2010-11-28T13:36:00.006-05:00

“Sweet Rewards”
30” x 24”
Oil on Canvas

“Till The Cows Come Home”
30” x 30”
Oil on Canvas

My latest show took place at the Aiken Center for the Arts in Aiken , SC. Followed by a workshop targeting my techniques for incorporating glass and silver into your paintings. The opening and the class were a tremendous success leading to permanent representation in Aiken as well as many sales and commissions.

Meeting an assortment wonderful new friends and gaining a wealth of information on all of the local activity and landmarks. I also had the good fortune to be invited to photograph the start of a fox hunt in Hancock woods. As it turns out it was the first joint hunt to also include the Polo players, the excitement was certainly running high. What a thrill for me, I look forward to joining them again in the near future.

The show will remain open until the 31st of December 2010

Wedding Day

2010-10-22T12:24:00.014-04:00

I would like to announce my recent marriage to John Lovett In a private family ceremony on

October 2, 2010
At my family’s farm in Armuchee, GA

I would like to thank my family and friends for making it the most wonderful day ever!

This is truly the beginning of our “Happily Ever After”

There will be an upcoming name change but that most likely will not take place professionally until the first of the year!

Art in Akin South Carolina

2010-09-08T08:37:00.003-04:00

Etowah River Valley

15" x 36"

One of the many paintings I am working on as part of my upcoming one man show and Workshop in Akin, South Carolina this November. There will be a reception Nov. 18th from 6:00-8:00 pm and the workshop will be the Saturday and Sunday following.

Hope to see you there!

Oil on Canvas

Great Chattahoochee Paint Out

2010-08-15T19:09:00.002-04:00

"Early Morning Gathering"

12" x 24"

Wow, I had signed up to participate in the “Great Chattahoochee paint out” and due to numerous other obligations I only had time to join them to paint one painting “Early Morning Gathering”. What a great morning we had, a wonderful time to see so many of my Plein Air Buddies, watch some fantastic art be produced, take a much needed break and somehow I managed to pull off Third place at the show! Go figure!

Natures canvas

2010-08-04T08:36:00.005-04:00

"Natures Canvas"

30" x 20"

Oil on Linen

Sold

My goal was to express the sparkle of evening light and the warm breeze of summer. I kept the composition simple yet atmospheric. I was in hopes of catching the gentle motion of the wind blowing her main, the soft sound of her grazing and the feeling of being in her presence.
I truly enjoyed my time working on this piece.

Latest Commission

2010-06-30T21:09:00.005-04:00

"The Pond at Draw Horn Creek"

30" x 20"

Sold

I have been so very fortunate in the commissions I have been asked to paint. My patrons have the best taste in their subject matter.

It makes such a difference to paint what you love!

Blue Ridge Mountains, North GA

2010-06-24T18:41:00.002-04:00

"Above the Falls"

20" x 8.5"

Oil on Canvas Panel

I had the Good fortune to be invited by Burton Gallery, in North East GA, to participate in a Plein Air event that took place at “The Falls” overlooking the breath taking Blue Ridge Mountains. This is one of the Studies I painted on location the first morning.

I have also been asked to join the gallery and will be participating in the show surrounding this event opening in July.

Something a Little Different!

2010-05-04T14:27:00.004-04:00

“Saddle Bronc”
36” x 24”
Oil on Canvas

The Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville, GA is having their Bi Annual Members juried fine art event. This is one of the pieces I painted to enter. Wish me luck!!

New at Mountain Trails

2010-04-23T10:03:00.004-04:00

"Wake Up Call"

36" x 24"

Oil on Canvas

This is the latest addition to my collection of paintings at Mountain Trails Gallery in Park City, Utah

Atlanta Country Club

2010-04-04T17:14:00.002-04:00

40" x 30"

Oil on Canvas

Sold

This is my latest commissioned painting. The customers were absolutely wonderful to work with. They had a very definite idea of what they wanted yet were very receptive to my suggestions from an artistic stand point. When all was said and done it is a piece we are all very pleased with.

2010-04-01T19:55:00.001-04:00

"In a Rut"

36" x 24"

Oil on Canvas

Available at Bobbe Gillis Gallery

Atlanta, GA

"BOBBE GILLIS GALLERY 13TH ANNIVERSARY ART EXHIBITION”

2010-03-03T18:49:00.008-05:00

“ My Favorite Spot”

12” x 36”

Oil on Canvas

This is one of the new pieces that will be on display

at the up coming show at

Bobbe Gillis Gallery in Atlanta, GA.

The opening reception will be:

Friday, March 19th, 20106:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Bobbe Gillis Gallery

1000 Marietta Street, NW

Suite 108

Atlanta, GA 30318

404.347.9016

Sunshine Award

2010-03-02T19:02:00.007-05:00

I was recently given the Sunshine Award by these wonderful artists: Karen Hargett and Kari Terrell

The rules for this award are:

1. Put the logo on your blog or within your post
2. Pass the award on to 12 bloggers
3. Link the nominees within your post
4. Let the nominees know they have received this award
5. Link to the person from whom you received this award

I'm passing the award off to these artists, whose work I admire:

Carol Marine
Dana Cooper
Edward Burton
Jeffrey Hayes
Karen Appleton
Karel Heerdt
Marilyn King
Marsha Hamby Savage
Michael Naples
Neil Hollingsworth
Qiang Huang
Teresa Madsen

To those I have chosen: If you have already received this award, or do not wish to participate, I certainly understand, but I just wanted to say I enjoy your blogs and visit often. Thank you for doing what you do so well and bringing a little sunshine in to my world.

"Holiday in Tuscany"

2010-01-30T13:59:00.003-05:00

"Holiday in Tuscany"
30” x 20”
Oil on Linen

When I got into my first Western Gallery, Mountain Trails Gallery in Park City, Utah, I assumed I would be painting mostly cowboys and western scene for them. They taught me never to assume anything; though they are very fond of my western scenes they also seem to like my still life paintings.

This is the latest one I took to the Gallery on my last trip out.

For the love of a Duck

2010-01-26T10:35:00.003-05:00

"Spike"

10" x 8"

Wooden Box

SOLD

I had the pleasure of painting this colorful image for one of my Gallery owners as a Christmas present to her Husband. It seems this duck hangs out where he works and he has grown rather attached to this animal he has lovingly named “Spike”.

I must say this one was wonderfully fun to paint!!

My New Best Friend

2010-01-14T18:22:00.003-05:00

“It’s all about Max”
10” x 8”
Oil on Linen Panel
NFS

I have always had big dogs and never really spent that much time with small ones. Last March I went out to Salt Lake City to meet my new Family and gained an unexpected family member. Within about five minutes of arriving at their house this little fellow had me wrapped around his paw!
I was fortunate to catch this terrific shot of him while I was there and was able to paint it for Tom and Jan for their Christmas gift! I was so happy they were pleased, and I think Max was a bit proud of it to!
It is so much fun to paint something you love!!!!!

A Bit Cold Out There!

2009-12-17T23:55:00.008-05:00

"Etowah River Valley"

16" x 6"

Oil on Linen Canvas Panel
SOLD

This and one other of my Plien air pieces were just accepted in the “First Annual Southeastern Regional Plein Air Exhibit” which will be on display in The Gallery at Paper Mill Village, Marietta, GA.

The opening reception will be held on Friday, February 5th, from 6:00 pm until 8:30 pm. The show will hang until Friday, February 26th.

PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST

2009-12-14T12:27:00.002-05:00

8" x 10"

Oil on Canvas Panel

This is my painting of; I have no idea, done as part of the DSFDF end of year challenge. What a great Blog for artist to participate in. I have been teaching for the last couple of years and I have recommended to my students they participate in the Different Strokes for different folks Challenges. I think it is a wonderful learning tool no matter what stage you are as an artist. Not to mention how it has grown my artist family, it is so great to have other artist to compare to, bat ideas off of or just help keep you motivated to struggle through an occasional artist block. My Thanks again to Karin Jurick for her efforts on this blog!

Three Studies

2009-12-08T22:47:00.009-05:00

12" x 24"

14" x 11"
Sold

16" x 12"
SOLD

Available at Bobbe Gillis Gallery in Atlanta, GA

Painting # 2 for Delta Credit Union

2009-12-01T22:04:00.007-05:00

"Delta Dawn"

48" x 24"

Oil on Canvas

Sold

One of the best parts of being a painter is getting lost in your work!!

Lady and Maxx

2009-11-24T09:58:00.013-05:00

"Lady and Maxx"

Oil on Canvas

30" x 40"

Sold

It’s funny how commissions can sometimes open doors.

Thanks to Bobbe Gillis Gallery in Atlanta I recently had the privilege of doing several large commission pieces that are now hanging in the Executive offices of The Delta Community Credit Union. This first one led me to find my new friends Palm Glades Lovely Lady and Palm Glades Mad Maxx.

Knowing nothing about Bird hunting myself I had the good fortune of finding Lane Hodges and his amazing German Shorthair Pointers. I am now in love with the breed. Both dogs having great accomplishments in field trials and are also amazing hunting/pet companions. Lady, not even a year old, took 2 first places at the GSP Club of South Georgia just a couple weeks ago, giving her a total of 3 first place and 1 third place ribbons in field trials. Go Lady!

It was wonderful having Lane’s expertise to authenticate the painting at every step. Lesson learned: when you know nothing about your subject matter it pays to associate yourself with someone who does. This will only be the first of many paintings of these amazing animals. I plan to be in the field with them next weekend; never thought I would be saying that!!

A Bit Busy

2009-10-26T10:28:00.006-04:00

"Little Jessie"

16" x 12"

Oil on Canvas

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I have been fortunate to have been very busy the last few months, doing shows, teaching workshops and working on a surplus of Commissions! Life is Good!! I wanted to share one of my latest commissions that I just delivered. It is a mate to an earlier painting that was published by Greenwich Workshops.

Art on the Square

2009-09-29T14:15:00.006-04:00

Main Street Gainesville

and Art in the Square Association

Present

October 3, 2009 10:00am - 5:00pm

On October 3rd come drench your senses in the art, music, crafts, and food of this all-day juried art festival, free to the public. Stroll down the tree-lined streets of Gainesville's celebrated Downtown Square and visit with the creators of original art. Kick back to the continuous beat of regional musicians while sipping your beverage of choice and munching your favorite eats from our local restaurants.

Bring the whole family - kids of all ages will enjoy various activities in the Youth Artist Market. Youngsters will revel in the hands-on creative arts activities while enjoying their very own youth-oriented entertainment.

This year's event features over 75 well known regional artists. Works include fine art, sculpture, pottery, photography, and wood carving as well as jewelry and other artistic endeavors.

Our Juror this year is Amanda Kroll, Executive Director of the Quinlan Visual Arts Center. She will be awarding First, Second, and Third place awards, plus five Honorable Mentions. Please vote for your favorite artist by filling out a People’s Choice Award ticket. Place your vote in the People’s Choice Award jar at the Information Booth on the Square along with $1.00. The artist with the most votes wins an award ribbon and all the money in the jar.

"Booth # 18 "

Great Weekend for an Outdoor Show!!!

2009-09-23T14:28:00.004-04:00

These are a few shots I found of what the Atlanta area looked like this weekend, not a pretty sight!
A bit wet for me! I was blown away by the amount of artist that stuck it out and endured the weather. I am not sure how many of us would had we known just how bad it was going to get. I still managed to make some sales and won first place in the painting category. Thanks to the coordinators for all their hard work, and all of you crazy patrons that made your way out to Roswell this weekend, it was quite a show in more ways than one!!

Morning in the Middle of the Afternoon

2009-08-24T17:26:00.005-04:00

Cool Morning Mist
24” x 8”
Oil on Canvas

Sold

Early morning is my favorite time to be painting down by the water. So much so even though this was painted in the evening on the last day of the Paint Out, my imagination took me right back to the view I had seen the morning before.

Click here to e-mail me for purchase information

Great Chattahoochee River Paint-Out

2009-08-16T13:40:00.011-04:00

Morning Rush
16” x 8”
Oil on Canvas Panel

Vickery Creek Morning
8” x 10”
Oil on Canvas panel

SOLD

What a great experience. This was the first time I have participated in a Paint Out and being the first year of this particular one I was amazed at the turn out. There were 76 professional and amateur artists painting at numerous locations on the Chattahoochee River in Roswell, GA. The entire event was very well organized and completely about supporting art in the community. All of the artists were asked to share their top two paintings in a show and reception at Island Ford Nature Headquarters of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. The Paint-Out was the inspiration of my dear friend, Roswell artist Joan Hilliard who wanted to share the beauty of Roswell and the Chattahoochee River with fellow artists from across the country. It was hosted by the Roswell Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.
My thanks to all who made this event possible.

These are the two paintings I chose to include in the show.

Click here to e-mail me for purchase information

Jackson Hole Plein Air Workshop

2009-08-06T12:23:00.007-04:00

9" x 12

Studies from the Teton National Forest

It has been a while since I have posted due to illness but I just got back from a week long Plein Air workshop with Bill Davidson in Jackson Hole, WY.

I wanted to share a few of my studies from the trip.

“Low Tide Stroll”

2009-06-27T09:58:00.006-04:00

40" x 10"

Oil on Canvas

My favorite time to walk on the beach, early morning before the tide starts to roll back in. The air is crisp and the breeze warm blowing off the water. One of the best parts of painting is the places it takes you!

For purchase information contact Bobbe Gillis Gallery

For the Love of Animals

2009-06-16T18:23:00.007-04:00

"JD"

Oil on Canvas

30" x 15"

Sold

Just another busy day at a show in South Carolina or so I thought. As I’m busily talking with I am not sure how many people, I did not realized someone had not only come in my booth, chatted, checked out my animal paintings, made the decision to have me do a commission for her but walked the two miles back home to get the photo and returned before it could register with me she really liked my work!!

I had the opportunity to paint this wonderful animal in all of his Glory, and I must say I got rather attached. This amazing dog was homed with someone through Greyhound Crossroads, who turned him back in and was lucky enough to find the perfect loving home where he got to live life to the fullest. He now has these initials after his name: FCh, RE, JC, CGC, TDI, GCADX which I have very little idea what they mean. The CGC is Canine Good Citizen; TDI is probably therapy dog international but I am not sure about the others. JD has learned to read from Flash cards, about 15 words. Things like sit, stay, down, etc. “Really one smart dog.”

She was telling me “Last year he was diagnosed with bone cancer - left front leg. Joanne treated him very aggressively with homeopathy, and natural remedies - and herbs. He's still around. Moves slowly, but still with us.”

The painting is for her and her love of this awesome animal!

Plein Air Discoveries

2009-06-10T17:12:00.013-04:00

Fay’s Step
8” x 6”
Oil on Panel

It never ceases to amaze me how much you learn painting from life, and socializing with other artist. Last week for the first time in a while, I went out painting with some friends just for the fun of it. Phil told me about the site I mentioned below PLEIN AIR ARTISTS. The painting above from that adventure.

I was checking out their forum on the site and found a great comment about "Thoughts on Plein air painting" and felt compelled to respond to the comments myself, which is not something I would have done in the past, before my days as a blogger!! Below is my response, if you would like to check out the forum click here.

___________________________________________________

I have been an artist all of my life but only began painting in 2003, at first I was self taught using books videos whatever I could. In the beginning all I knew was painting from photos but very quickly became restless and felt the need to become more painterly, and to understand how not to be limited by a photo.

My first workshop was in Plien Air, and I very quickly realized what I had been missing and how It would help me grow as an artist. I have continued taking workshops, both Plein Air and Studio as well as drawing classes. I have also learned a great deal by simply painting with friends and sharing ideas.

One of the great things about art is the endless supply of sources to learn, and though William F. Reese is so right about being robbed by using photos too soon, it can be overcome. It can be used when starting out as a way to build that necessary confidence to stick with it, as long as you realize what it takes to move beyond the photo. A few seemingly successful paintings can give you that thirst to want to know more. In my case it made me realize I had some talent and what I didn’t have, I could learn.

Well, I am still learning and even more thirsty than before. I am so grateful to people like yourself that are willing to share information and help point us in directions that may help us learn and grow.

No matter how unconventionally we may get there, its sites like these that help keep us on track. When it comes to learning at least, William is right, anything goes.

Comments

2009-06-07T12:10:00.002-04:00

I want to let everyone that has been kind enough to try and leave a comment on my page the last few weeks that I have had a technical difficulty that led to them not being posted. After a recommendation to turn on my Comment moderation, due to typo in my notification e-mail address I was not receiving notice of the comments and they were not being posted. Thanks to someone being persistent and then e-mailing me direct that there was a problem I now have it corrected!

Thanks so much for all of you support and encouraging words.

-Amanda-

PLEIN AIR ARTISTS

2009-06-05T09:43:00.015-04:00

Oil on Canvas

20" x 10"

Sold

Plein Air Study
12” x 10”

I was recently invited to join a site called PLEIN AIR ARTISTS. And though I am still in the exploring stages of it I find it to be a wealth of information. I was blown away when I looked at it this morning and already a piece of my work was listed as one of today’s featured paintings. What a great way to start my day! I thought I would share the info with ya’ll. Hope you enjoy. If any of you join be sure and look me up as a friend!

The painting that was featured was the study I did standing in the middle of a river on a rock so I would be able to get the color right in the above painting. I knew a camera would never capture the vibrant colors that were in front of me.

Pam's Garden

2009-05-27T16:35:00.002-04:00

Oil on Canvas

10" x 8"

Sold

It’s funny how the more you look at some paintings, the more fond you become of them.

I have said for a while I wanted to loosen up a bit to add more life to my paintings. This is one I did of my neighbor working in her yard, after participating in several of the DSFDF challenges. I have to thank Karin for her blog, because I would say this is pretty loose.

What fun this one was to paint!!

The Old Home Place

2009-05-20T09:27:00.003-04:00

"The Old Home Place"
36" x 18"
Oil On Canvas
Sold

Some paintings are just so much fun to paint that you hate to finish them. I really enjoy working on paintings that take me somewhere, ones that bring back fond childhood memories about people and places. Not just the house it’s self but the way the light falls through the tress and hit’s the side of the house, almost inviting you to step up on the porch and sit a while.

Please click here to contact me for purchase information

To Dance or not to Dance

2009-05-14T13:17:00.009-04:00

" The Depot"

48" x 24"
Oil on Canvas

Sold

Its funny how looking back can sometimes make you move forward. I have been so busy painting, learning, teaching and showing my art that sometimes you forget to breathe.

This is not one of my most recent paintings, it’s been on loan to a friend and I just got it back a few weeks ago. I had it with me at the show in Greenville; I was a bit surprised at the attention it received.

I painted this as an attempt to begin thinking outside the box. Something to push me to the next step as a painter. Well guess what, it worked. Having it in front of me again has reminded me to “Step it up”

So wish me luck, there is never any telling where this feeling can take you!

Please click here to contact me for purchase information

Watching Over You

2009-05-06T13:36:00.004-04:00

“Watching Over You”
Oil on Canvas
11” x 14”

Well the last show for a bit is coming up this weekend! I am headed to Artisphere in Greenville, SC. I have been told it’s a great show but it’s my first time, so heres to crossing my fingers!!! If the quality of work is any indication it should be wonderful, I am really looking forward to checking out some of these artist. They have a link to most of them on their webpage and several are very impressive!

This is one of my latest paintings and I will say it was a blast to paint! I had already began it before I saw Karin’s Challenge on DSFDF but it makes me sorry I did not have time to participate in the last one!

Ready for Flight

2009-04-21T22:49:00.004-04:00

“Ready for Flight”
8” x 6”
Oil on Linen Panel

Sold

Not a lot of extra time these days for writing. I am pretty much spending all my time painting! Thought I would share one of my newest. This is an old Stearman that was sitting up at the Cartersville airport as it was being preflighted. This plane was in amazing condition, would have loved to have gone for a ride.

Druid Hills Artist Market

2009-04-09T13:35:00.011-04:00

16" x 12"
Oil on Canvas
Sold

This one is yet un-named as I have been painting pretty much every day for weeks getting ready for Three upcoming shows. The first is in Druid Hills in Atlanta in conjunction with the tour of Homes. Both the tour and the Artist Market are wonderful events I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in. I am hoping to get a booth sitter so I can go on the tour myself!
The show is April 17th and 18th and there is more information about it under Shows and Events on my new Web Site.

What a Week in Utah!

2009-03-20T10:30:00.015-04:00

"Lickety Split"
Oil on Linen
30" x 15"

And I just thought we were going Skiing!!!

What started out to be a week to ski Brighton and Solitude ended up landing me my first Gallery out West. On the off chance I might have an opportunity, I painted “ Lickety Split” on flat linen, rolled it up and stuck it in my suite case with the hope it would not be coming back home with me.

My wish came true and it is currently being framed to hang in Mountain Trails Gallery in Park City Utah. I will also be shipping several other works out there this week!

I've Been Tagged

2009-03-10T10:47:00.006-04:00

I have just been "tagged" by Edward Burton, a fabulous artist I met through the Different Strokes from Different Folks Blog. Thank you Edward!

So, the rules of the game are as follows...1. Link to the person who tagged you. 2. Post the rules in your blog. 3. Write five random things about yourself. 4. Tag random people at the end of your post and link to them. 5. Let each person know they've been tagged.

Here are my 5:

1. My Dad was a Motorcycle Cop with the City of Atlanta from 1960 to 1970 , so the sound of a Harley makes me think of listening for my Daddy to come home.

2. I was in down town London during its only Hurricane since the 1700’s

3. My sister writes Fan fiction about cowboys and host a writers web site JordanMckenzie.com

4. I like to scuba dive, kayak, ski, trout fish, hunt and other guy things....

5. I love books and movies dealing with psychology and human nature.... I must get that from my Mom!

For my links I have tagged 3 people:
1. Teresa Madsen
2. Kay Lybrand
3. Marilyn M. King

"On Display"

2009-03-01T14:53:00.029-05:00

"On Display"
6" x 8"
Oil on Gator Board

Sold

This is what I came up with from this week’s Different Strokes from Different folks challenge. As everyone seems to have said, when I first saw the photo I thought,,,, maybe not so much! But once I started playing around with it I had an absolute blast. What fun it was to work with such bright colors and be so loose with my brush strokes. Bravo Karin, I think this has turned out to be one of the best yet!!

2009 Oil Painters of America- National Juried Exhibition

2009-02-26T10:57:00.005-05:00

Time to Myself

30" x 15"

Oil on Canvas

2009 Oil Painters of America- National Juried Exhibition of Traditional Oils, Sage Creek Gallery in Santa Fe, NM
Sold

Well, it started out a rather normal morning; I had my coffee and was checking e-mails. I saw what I thought was the usual show date announcement e-mail from Juried Art Services until I realized in the subject line it had the word “Acceptance”…… I had all but forgotten today was the announcement day for Oil Painters of America.
Then of course all that could be heard was a loud,,,,YYYEEEEESSSSSSSS!

I also managed to get the beginning of my new web page up yesterday, so it is definably shaping up to be a very nice day!!

Spring Forward

2009-02-24T10:37:00.010-05:00

"Three Cheifs"

24" x 12"
Oil on Canvas
Sold

March 20, 2009 is the date for the opening reception of the “Spring Forward” show at Bobbie Gillis Gallery in Atlanta. This exhibition will feature the artwork of all 30 of their extremely talented artists, with artwork ranging in styles from contemporary to traditional.

This misty morning view near the Etowah Indian Mounds in Cartersville GA, is one of three of my new works and well as several existing pieces they will have on display at this event. Please stop by the Gallery during the reception or the month that follows.

Masterworks in Miniature

2009-02-16T19:50:00.013-05:00

"Cool Water"
8" x 10"
oil on Linen

Sold

I was invited to participate in Master Works in Miniature,
held annually at Gallery One, Mentor OH. This is one of the paintings I am sending. I found out that they have used it on the brochure to promote the show! I can’t wait to see it!

Now in its 18th big year, Masterworks features paintings by some of my favorite artist, so it is quite an honor to participate! The show will run from March 6to March 21. All work will be available through submitting ‘intent-to-purchase’ forms. Such “intents” can be filed in person at Gallery One where all of the works will be on exhibit until Saturday, March 21. Intents can be filed by mail or over the web at www.galleryone.com where the entire collection can be viewed once the show opens. Winners of purchase rights will be drawn at the close of the event.

Sophie found a home!

2009-02-07T10:36:00.004-05:00

“Finding Sophie”
Oil on Canvas
24” x 18”
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Well it’s funny how some paintings are harder to let go of than others. This one is a good example. I painted her about a year ago and she has spent most of that time gracing the wall of the front show room in my parents Jewelry store. Everyone there, especially my sister, had become rather attached. But it seems our dear Sophie has found her destiny. She is moving to the country in New York, where she will hang over the mantel in a wonderful rustic country home, which belongs to two very dear people! I believe first stopping in Ft Lauderdale!! That Cow has gotten to travel more than I have so far this year!!

One of the best reasons for doing shows is getting the opportunity to meet your patrons. I have been very fortunate to encounter so many wonderful people that help me keep my perspective on my work fresh!!

Thank You!!

Workshop at Elder Ridge Studios

2009-02-04T11:05:00.016-05:00

Elder Ridge Studios - Wow! What a fantastic concept.

A beautiful home in the North Georgia mountains with a studio for artists to learn and share ideas. Anita Elder, the owner of this delightfully pleasant studio, was a most gracious host to me and my students just this past weekend as I offered instruction in intermediate oil painting.

After an intense day of study on Friday, we ended with a wine and cheese party that night. Raring to go Saturday morning, we began again and spent many wonderful hours creating some amazing quality work. Our breaks were as creative as our class, as we gathered round the table to discuss artisitic techniques and chow down on Anita's delicious vegetable beef soup.

The whole experience was such a success, as we were wrapping up, Anita and I immediately 'inked in' our next event - May 21-23. The class will be a plein air workshop painting in several private locations across the North Georgia mountains.

Wild Intent

2009-01-20T07:52:00.007-05:00

14" x 10"

Oil on Canvas

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This was one of the new paintings I finished up to take to the boat show with me. It’s always wonderful when someone happens along that has a story that they associate with one of my paintings. This woman had just seen her first bobcat in the wild and was thrilled to see the painting.
This was a blast to paint, I truly love painting wildlife!

The Strand Theater

2009-01-19T12:27:00.010-05:00

40" x 30"

Oil on Canvas

GRAND RE-OPENING

On January 10th, I had the honor of attending the Grand Opening VIP Cocktail Party & Dinner at the Strand Theater in Marietta, Georgia where I was recognized for my donation of this painting to the Friends of the Strand. I have to say, the real honor is that my painting is now hanging in the main lobby of the theater.

Atlanta Boat Show

2009-01-09T12:41:00.007-05:00

I am excited to announce that I will be exhibiting my work at this years Atlanta Boat Show

January 14-18, 2009
Georgia World Congress Center
Booth # 259
285 Andrew Young International Blvd, NW

(Hall "C") Atlanta, GA 30313
Wed-Fri (Jan 14-16) 11am - 9pm

Sat (Jan 17) 10am - 9pm

Sun (Jan 18) 10am - 6pm

Dinner Time

2009-01-07T12:17:00.015-05:00

10 x 8"
Oil on Linen Panel

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I just love Cows! They have some strange calming effect that makes them so much fun to paint!
My family went over to Berry College one evening and caught the light at that magic time of day! My Mom and I got quite a few wonderful shots of cows, deer and geese not to mention the unbelievable landscapes there.

This painting and several others are available at Frameworks Gallery

Janet Whitehead Portrait Challenge

2009-01-04T18:06:00.007-05:00

This is my painting of Janet Whitehead done as part of the Different Strokes challenge. Wow! What a learning experience. Not only in the painting itself but there is nothing like the commitment of sending a photo of your work for someone else to post to make you scrutinize your editing of the shot. Only after sending the photo to Karin did I realize the color in the shot was off from the painting. One of many things I have learned by participating in the DSFDF blog.

Thank you Karin for the many lessons all of us will undoubtedly learn from your labors. The opportunity to compare the efforts of so many individuals is a privilege indeed.

Small Works North America Top 40

2008-11-30T23:24:00.009-05:00

My Fair Lady

Oil on Canvas

14" x 10"

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My most sincere thanks to all of my patrons

who took the time to vote!

“My Fair Lady” not only sold at the show but also made the top 40 in this year’s Greenwich Workshops Small Works event. Yeah!! This means that for the second year in a row one of my paintings will be published and featured in the Greenwich Workshops catalog!!
Thanks so much for all of your support!

If you are interested in purchasing a print of

“My Fair Lady” click here.

Week 12-13 Challenge - Buddha

2008-11-30T16:23:00.014-05:00

10 x 10"

Oil on Linen Panel

When looking around the internet for some “Words of Wisdom” to write about this painting, I ended up finding an explanation for my last post. Funny how that works.

I was researching the words this painting brought to mind like Buddha, meditation and karma, and from their meaning I was able to understand why some paintings paint themselves.

karma mainly refers to one's intention or motivation

while doing an action

An example of good Karma is the “Bird of Paradise” painting. Not only did the act of painting bring me great pleasure, but the commission itself was highly motivating. Its ‘karma’ was the chain of circumstances that led to its creation. My patron is someone who means a lot to me and it was important I did my best to make her happy. In turn, the person she is having it painted for is very important to her, and she is looking forward to giving something beautiful and sentimental.

As my intention and motivation were positive, so were the results!

The above painting was another submission to Karin Jurick's Different Strokes From Different Folks . Thank you Karin

Please click here to contact me for purchase information

Bird of Paradise

2008-11-28T13:18:00.007-05:00

16 x 12"

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It always amazes me how some paintings paint themselves!
I really was not so sure about this commission when I first got it but once I started painting I easily became lost in the shapes and the next thing I knew, there it was!!!

I hope every one had as wonderful a Turkey day as my family and I !!

Week 11 Challenge - Upside Down Walker

2008-11-18T19:05:00.017-05:00

10 x 8"
Oil on Linen Panel
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This was another submission to Karin Jurick's Different Strokes From Different Folks. WOW! This was more fun than I though it would be. She had us turn the reference photo upside down and paint. I myself could hardly wait to turn it back right side up in order to do the finishing touches. Very good learning tool, it really makes you think about form as apposed to the concept of painting a person.

Please click here to the auction page and a chance to place your bid.

Week 8 Challenge - An Alabama Cow

2008-11-17T18:42:00.015-05:00

8 x 6"
Oil on Linen Panel

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6 x 8"
Oil on Linen Panel

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This was my first submission to Karin Jurick's Different Strokes From Different Folks. It's a fun challenge...she puts up a different photo each Wed. night. Artists from all over submit their renditions of it. Being the first I really wanted to put my best foot forward so I painted it twice. Not that I could say one was any better than the other but none the less different!

SmallWorks North America

2008-11-15T10:11:00.020-05:00

I am very proud to announce the acceptance

of two of my paintings in:

The Greenwich Workshop Gallery's
Small Works North America

The SmallWorks North America Top 40 will be determined by a combination of collector voting via the internet and judges' recommendations. Artists selected for this category will be invited to participate in The Greenwich Workshop's Spring 2009 SmallWorks Fine Art Editions Catalogue.

Any of you interested in Voting may do so by simply registering with an e-mail address, as a collector at the following web page and selecting your Gold, Silver and Bronze choices. The paintings are also available for purchase through this link.

"Nothing in Particular"

2008-11-14T13:33:00.019-05:00

8 x 6"

Oil on Linen Panel

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A student recently asked me, “When you see something you would like to paint, do you create to satisfy your own emotions or do you strive to have your work speak to others?”

It was a very good question I’m sure every painter has pondered. Me, I try not to over think my work. I let the “message” be the journey the painting takes me on; if it is somewhere I truly enjoy being, odds are other people will find a connection with it as well. I have also learned those who view my work can often times see a different journey, one that never occurred to me.