A Painting Today

"Arrivederci"

2012-02-29T15:55:00.002-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite

Whenever I'm approaching New York City and see the skyline, I get butterflies in my stomach - it is so enormous, so fantastic, so dense, so busy. It's kinda scary. I feel like I'm leaving one country and stepping into another. Once I'm there, that all turns into excitement and energy - and I am in awe. We were a part of the heartbeat for eleven days and it was unforgettable. My workshop was, again, a fantastic experience - it is the greatest city to photograph and paint.

Leaving the island, I usually feel a slight relief - back on familiar territory. This was our last glimpse of the skyline, from across the Hudson River - and we were now on our way to reunite with friends in New Jersey, and where we left our car. This isn't the end of my series GA to NYC & Back - but it's the last glimpse of that amazing part of our trip.

Please click here to the auction page. This link will engage at 9 pm ET this evening.

"Driving While Suspended"

2012-02-27T17:37:00.004-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite

Not to whine, but this was downright tough. There was nearly a wipe off three different times, I just vowed to plug on.

This new painting is included in my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back - as we were packed up and ready to leave the island, we wanted to see the Brooklyn Bridge just one more time. It is so iconic, so magnificent.

Please click here to the auction page.

"Starbuckin'"

2012-02-25T16:22:00.003-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite

After a couple of days of tightening up - I needed loosening up. I love painting both ways really. Balancing it out is the key to sanity.

As my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back is coming to an end, our final morning in New York City began with a stop at the nearest Starbucks, where I spotted this young woman enjoying the sunny window.

Please click here to the auction page.

"Tea Time"

2012-02-25T12:52:00.004-05:00

12 x 9"

oil on masonite
nfs

A painting I've been working on for several days - a gift for two very nice people I know.

The Hilton Head Gang Mugshots

2012-02-20T15:01:00.005-05:00

I'm catching up with the rest of the Hilton Head Gang - warming up with these new additions. We've got a blog where you can see the gang's different versions - they're so cool.

Roxanne "The Streak"

Chris "The Moniker"

Jennifer "JLO"

Kelley "Macgrins"

My New Book 'San Francisco'

2012-02-18T15:43:00.002-05:00

For my workshops, I create a book for my students that includes paintings I've done from the location we find ourselves in - hopefully it inspires when they're sent out with their cameras, seeing the surroundings through an artist's eyes.

With my workshop in April fast approaching, I've got a new book 'San Francisco' now available on Blurb - it is 7 x 7" and includes 41 color reproductions of paintings I've done from previous trips to the city. If you'd like a partial preview of this new book, click here.

To explain my pause in working on new pieces, we've decided this is a great opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime road trip to the west coast - so I've been mapping it out, making solid plans and that has taken chunks of time but it should be incredible. Zac & Joey are coming too, they'll be blogging about it along the way and so will I.

For now, I'll get back to painting tomorrow. Thank ya'll.

"Stared Straight"

2012-02-12T16:57:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

After painting the cool, swirly water around "Minnie", it prompted me to add to my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back - a woman enchanted with Monet's brush strokes on his "Water Lilies", which hangs in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

"Minnie"

2012-02-10T15:53:00.007-05:00

nfs

One of my four-legged friends, Minnie, my good friend's pom - she lived a long, adventurous, loved life and passed away today. I've painted Minnie before, floating on a raft with her mom. RIP Minnie.

"200 Faces, No. 108"

2012-02-07T16:21:00.004-05:00

4 x 4"
oil on masonite
sold

A great face to paint.

"Mensch"

2012-02-03T17:42:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Mensch is Yiddish for a good guy. I loved this gentleman, I thought he looked like a good guy. Distinguished and wise in his years. I spotted him sitting outside of Central Park, looking onto 5th Avenue. Not far from where I held the workshop.

Normally, I would ignore the detail of the wall behind him - keep it simpler. But in this case, I thought it added something right. This new painting will be added to my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back.

"Comfy"

2012-02-02T18:53:00.003-05:00

12 x 9"
oil on masonite

There are times when I can't seem to paint anything right - and I know it's because something is distracting my attention - laundry, errands, puppies and the like usually. So I just gave in for a few days and focused on my upcoming workshop in San Francisco. I made all my arrangements, worked on my hand-outs, did my laundry, ran my errands and played with the pups. Nothing like a clear head to get painting again.

This new painting feels so warm and comfy - a big chair, a hot cup of coffee and a good book. So nice.

Please click here for a larger view and purchase information.

Just want to mention - there are 4 openings remaining for that upcoming workshop - info is on the right hand column.

"Boat People"

2012-01-25T17:20:00.005-05:00

5 x 7"
oil on masonite
sold

A new addition to my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back - a group of students riding on a chartered boat down the East River. Of course I just l-u-r-v-e the shadows.

"Bench Warmer"

2012-01-21T17:58:00.004-05:00

5 x 7"
oil on masonite
sold

Here's a little guy I spotted on the outskirts of Central Park - an addition to my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back. I hope to do a larger painting of him, wanted to do a small study first.

"200 Faces, No. 107"

2012-01-20T14:48:00.005-05:00

4 x 4"
oil on masonite
sold

I can't read without glasses and I've always been against wearing them when painting. Aside from squinting the entire time I'm working, the extra blur keeps me loose. But.... recently, there came a point when I caved. Just too much strain I guess. Then, the trick was NOT to get nit-pickyitis and just focus on the strokes. Not the details. I'm getting used to it day by day.

My warm-up this morning, an addition to my ongoing series BUST-ED.

"Train Spotting"

2012-01-17T11:37:00.003-05:00

9 x 12"
oil on masonite

This new painting includes Rene Magritte's 'Time Transfixed' - which hangs in the Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago and is so perfectly placed between two floor-to-ceiling windows where you can look out onto Millennium Park. An evening visit to the museum has such an elegant feel, especially in the Modern Wing. If you haven't been lately, go.

Please click here for a larger view and purchase information.

"200 Faces, No. 106"

2012-01-14T15:04:00.004-05:00

4 x 4"
oil on masonite
sold

My warm up today.

"Warm Front"

2012-01-13T12:32:00.003-05:00

8 x 8"
oil on masonite

For those in need of remembering warmer days.....

Please click here for a larger view and purchase information.

while I'm here..... I get a lot of emails saying 'I'd love to sign up for your San Francisco workshop, but it's too far and too costly'. I agree, it's far for me and it is a pricey week in the city. But I want you to think about my field expedition/workshops in a different way. In fact, if you're a painter, think of all travel plans in a different way. Think of it as an investment.

If you take your camera and a handful of memory cards, you can take hundreds of photographs, wherever you are, and return home with images that will keep you painting for months and months. Those paintings can end up sold and pay for your expenses - soon enough, you'll be planning your next trip.

"Mr. Cool"

2012-01-10T14:50:00.006-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

As I walked around the Upper East Side, looking for lunch, I spotted this gentleman outside, waiting for the bustle to begin. This painting will be included in my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back.

Workshop in San Francisco

2012-01-09T16:04:00.003-05:00

You may know I'm holding a workshop in San Francisco this spring the week of April 9th - 13th, at the San Francisco Friends School. As of today, I've got 4 openings left, if you're interested, please contact Vince Fazio, the arts director at the Sedona Arts Center asap. His phone number is on the right hand column - if you want to read more about the workshop, click here. I'd love to have you join me.

"Higher Up"

2012-01-07T16:40:00.004-05:00

5 x 7"
oil on masonite
sold

Never fails, when I start painting a cityscape like this, I question my sanity. The trick is to remember when you're standing there, on a high-floor balcony, looking out at this scene, everything is somewhat of a blur, a series of little blips, daubs of color and light. I look at my photograph and proceed to squint for several hours, hoping it all makes sense in the end. I'm pretty happy and honestly surprised that it turned out as I imagined.

This lofty view was compliments of one of my workshop students who had an evening get-together at her home. Basically you're looking at the East River, Hellgate Park and the Triborough Bridge - just an outstanding spot to see the city in a whole different way.

This painting is included in my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back.

"200 Faces, No. 105"

2012-01-06T14:16:00.004-05:00

4 x 4"

oil on masonite
sold

Ya know...... since I'm warming up with mugshots, I'm going to continue my ongoing series BUST-ED and get another 100 done by the end of the year. And I'm going to offer them on auction, twice a week, starting at $49. It's a great way to keep loose and I enjoy painting them in between other work.

"Old Guard"

2012-01-04T17:33:00.004-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

When I got back to painting a couple of days ago, I realized I was suffering from nitpickyitis - a result of taking some time off. So I warmed up with several mugshots until I loosened up again.
My goal is to complete my series GA to NYC & Back, continuing on with my walk up 5th Avenue, on the Upper East Side where I spotted an adorable, old Golden Lab loyally waiting at the front door of a townhouse.

The Paint On Tabletop Easel Got an Award!

2011-12-31T12:58:00.002-05:00

I always look forward to Katherine Tyrrell's 'Making a Mark' Awards at the end of the year - art bloggers, world-wide, voted on their favorites for Best Picture of the Year on an Art Blog 2011, including Best Portraits/Figures, Best Landscape/Place, Best Still Life, Best Nature and more. Bravo to all who participated and congratulations to the artists.

This year Katherine's new award, the Art Innovation of the Year, highlights those artist bloggers who experiment and/or create and/or share innovations which help the practice of other artists. This year's award was shared between Ester Roi's Icarus Art Drawing Board and Brett's Paint On Tabletop Easel!! How cool is that? Nice way to end the year - thanks to the voters and Katherine, Brett and I appreciate the recognition.

Speaking of the Tabletop Easel, I currently have 1 that is brand-new and ready to ship in the New Year - please click here to purchase yours.

An added note..... we've really enjoyed our holiday time including a road trip to have Christmas with the family, something we couldn't do for years, being in retail. Zac and Joey had their first long drive, their first hotel stay and new experiences all around. It was great fun - we hope you had a wonderful time as well.

The painting starts again tomorrow, I've got a lot of catching up to do. I want to thank all of you who take the time to visit my blog and website and leave your encouraging comments and emails throughout the year. It really, really does mean a lot to me.

~ Happy New Year
and Paint On!

Have a Happy Holiday

2011-12-18T16:32:00.003-05:00

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole."

~ Roger Caras

Wishing you and yours a beautiful holiday time.
~Karin, Brett, Zac & Joey

"Front Office"

2011-12-12T16:26:00.003-05:00

16 x 16"
oil on masonite
sold

I had mentioned a few weeks ago I was painting a larger piece - most wouldn't consider 16" large, but in my world, it's double the width of my usual. A little daunting for me, as silly as that sounds. Add to that, the painting is a commissioned piece of sorts, for the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts in Alabama - for an upcoming event in February. Another painting of mine had caught the eye of the organizers of the event - it featured one of the museum's prized possessions, Edward Hopper's 'New York Office' - one of my personal favorites in their collection. What an honor for me. When I know more about the dates of the museum's event, I'll be sure to fill you in.

What I learned about painting larger....

It took a lot of time to be happy with the composition, in fact, I changed it six times. The fifth time, I sketched it out on the panel and immediately hated it. The larger it is, the more it matters. It seems to come easier for me on a smaller format or maybe I was stuck over-thinking the whole thing.

When I started putting the paint down, I found myself working slow and tight. Then Brett came into the room and took the small brush out of my hand and replaced it with a big one and told me to loosen up. After that subtle reminder, it flowed. Took me four days, but there was no wiping areas off, no corrections to the composition, and I really enjoyed those four days of work.

Painting smaller pieces is my thing - no doubt. The main reason, I don't have that kind of time. I want to wake up in the morning, figure out what I want to paint that day and get it done before I go to bed. I don't like thinking about what I should do or should change the next morning - I like the feeling of accomplishment at the end of a day. Makes for a good night's sleep.

Please click here for a larger view.

As for now - this is the first Christmas & New Year's Holiday, in 32 years, that I am no longer in retail. It is w-o-n-d-e-r-f-u-l. I loved my job as a picture framer, but holidays really were tough. Be nice to those folks behind the counter, a kind word or two goes a long way.

Cheers and Wishes for a Happy Holiday time ~

Brand New Easels Available

2011-12-09T18:02:00.005-05:00

If you paint smaller works, treat yourself to a brand-new, custom-built Paint On Easel. My guy, Brett, has 1 Tabletop Easel ready - if you like to sit and paint like I do. Read about it, you'll love it, I promise. He also has 2 AlterEasels ready - if you prefer to use your stand-up easel, this fits comfortably onto the shelf. Read about it, lots of artists love it too.

The artist Pattie Wall just emailed me about how much she is pleased with her Tabletop Easel - here's a photo she sent of her paintings in the easel....

"Walking the Walk"

2011-12-05T17:13:00.006-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Part of my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back - a morning walk to Central Park on the Upper East Side of the city.

100% of the sale of this painting was donated to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Home - a cancer hospice, here in Atlanta. The hospice depends of private donations to care for terminally ill patients - the Sisters cared for my dad 21 years ago. Thanks to all who participated in the auction, I am grateful.

More of the Hilton Head Gang

2011-12-01T13:51:00.004-05:00

4 x 4"
oil on masonite

And a happy December to you. I've been working on a larger painting, I can't say much about it yet, when it's official I surely will. I put it away for the day, thought I'd warm up with another mugshot of our infamous Hilton Head Gang.

Our third gang member is Linda 'the Joker' Popple - Linda disarms her victims with humor and then shoots with reckless abandon. Yes, Linda thinks she is funny, but her crimes are very serious. Please approach her with with caution. Linda was last seen driving off Hilton Head Island wearing a teal sweatshirt and a blue baseball cap driving a red convertible sports car as she was laughing and shaking her camera at the wind. Authorities followed her until she left them in the dust....

For more information or clues to her whereabouts, check out her blog.

"Gatto"

2011-11-26T16:54:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Adding to my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back - another charming resident I met up with in Little Italy. Come to think of it, he's the only outdoor cat I saw during my stay in New York City.

San Francisco - the Perfect Gift Idea

2011-11-25T11:07:00.011-05:00

I have a Black Friday promotion - picture yourself in San Francisco in the spring, painting with a group of artists in the early part of the day then roaming the city with your camera and capturing images that will inspire you to paint for months after you return home.

Join me at my upcoming workshop at the San Francisco Friends School, April 9-13, 2012 - there is 1 opening remaining and you can put yourself on a waiting list if you still need time to think about it. You'll find more information here - the workshop is arranged by the Sedona Arts Center - the director, Vince Fazio, can assist you with any questions and registration - his contact info can be found on the right hand column of this blog or register online.

San Francisco is an incredible city for an artist - filled with streetscapes and people watching spots - I am so excited about this location and the workshop, please consider joining me and others next spring.

"Happy Hour"

2011-11-22T16:56:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Included in my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back - a charming gentleman I spotted sitting in front of the Mulberry Street Bar, who invited us in for happy hour.

~ Happy Thanksgiving to All

AlterEasel Available

2011-11-21T15:08:00.007-05:00

A quick shout out that 1 brand-new AlterEasel is available to purchase thru my eBay store.
For details and testimonials on the AlterEasel, click here.

To purchase yours, click here.

The Tabletop Easels are temporarily sold out, more will be available soon.

~ thank you

More of the Hilton Head Gang

2011-11-20T16:53:00.003-05:00

4 x 4"
oil on masonite

"The second member of the Hilton Head Gang is Regula 'Babyface' Scheifele. Don't let her youthful appearance fool you..... she is as devious as the rest of the gang when it comes to shooting covertly and then leaving the scene of the crime.

After terrorizing the island shooting her way through beaches and galleries, she escaped to the back roads of North Carolina. She was last seen boarding a plane to Europe... her current whereabouts unknown."

~ Maria Hock, fellow member of the HHG

Check out Regula's blog for any clues as to her whereabouts.

"A Lull"

2011-11-17T17:04:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

There was a lull. I got back to painting and found the mess around me unsettling. So I did a long-overdue cleanup of my studio which lead to a long-overdue cleanup of my distribution center (formally my dining room) which lead to pulling out my winter clothes and cleaning them. Back to work.

This new painting is part of my ongoing series GA to NYC & Back - a couple of waiters during a lull, spotted in Little Italy.

The Hilton Head Gang Mugshots

2011-11-14T14:44:00.003-05:00

4 x 4"
oil on masonite

"On October 31st, 2011, disaster struck the tiny island of Hilton Head, South Carolina. Twenty-one notorious characters descended upon Hilton Head and went wild shooting everything in sight.

The purpose of this challenge is to reveal the identities of the Hilton Head Gang by painting their portraits. The first mug to be painted is the leader of this notorious gang - Karin 'Quickdraw' Jurick (that would be me). Karin can visit a beach and shoot everyone in sight before they even know she is there. Her covert activity is known worldwide."

~ Maria Hock, artist and member of the Hilton Head Gang

Those who joined me in my recent workshop will be participating weekly, please click here to see their paintings.

Hilton Head Workshop

2011-11-08T15:41:00.008-05:00

I'm back from my recent workshop in Hilton Head - it has taken me a couple of days to get organized, look through some photos, get caught up on sleep. I'm usually drained after the week ends, in a good way. I just had the greatest time with 19 talented, eager and wonderfully fun painters, I hated to see it end.

Thanks to all those who joined me in Hilton Head, and to Vince Fazio, from the Sedona Arts Center, who organizes and assists me in my workshops. I loved the experience.

Half the time spent away from home was family time, Brett and I took Zac and Joey - their first road trip and first time at the beach.

They were beside themselves - they LOVED the wide open beach, the waves, the room to run amok.

They turned 7 months old while we were there - amazingly brave and well-behaved the whole time.

The evening before the workshop began, one of my students who lives on the island, hosted a get-together at her beautiful home - a chance to get to know each other, which was great for all of us. One of my demos was the outstanding view from her back patio.

5 x 7"
sold

The first day, I talked a lot and painted this demo, a very loose, colorful piece - a woman I spotted on the beach the first few days we had arrived.

8 x 10"
sold

The second day, my students painted from the same photo, with amazing results. The different interpretations of the water were very cool - here's a few of those done.

This is another one of my demos, I wanted to concentrate on the skin colors - another woman I spotted on the beach.

6 x 6"
sold

On our longer day in the studio, I painted a mugshot - then forced everyone, including Vince, to paint one. I did this in my New York workshop, I knew they'd learn something from it, I think they enjoyed it more than they thought they would. Amazing results, a very cool exercise. Here is my demo .....

4 x 4"
sold

Our last day together went way too fast, one more demo to include swirly water and more skin.

6 x 6"
sold

What a fantastic week I had - family time beforehand with the pups and time with our friends, Neil and Karen, the beach and sunshine, painting and I got to know some really great people - it doesn't get any better than that.

I would normally head to Charleston after the workshop, this time I opted out, but I was told both my paintings 'Outdoor Dining' and 'Checked Out' that were part of the Charleston Art Auction sold (yay!) and they now have nice homes to go to. An excellent way to end my week.

Please take time to check out the blogs I've listed on the right column, of those artists who have participated in my workshops. I'm very proud of all of them. I also want to mention - if you're interested in my future workshops, check the info on the right column, or call the Sedona Arts Center and ask to be notified when one is scheduled. The next adventure is in San Francisco next April, a perfect city to photograph and paint - there are 7 openings remaining at this time.

Time to get back to the paints - see you back here very soon.

Workshop & Beach Pups

2011-11-02T15:37:00.003-05:00

You know.... I honestly plan to blog from workshops, but by the time I get back to my place, I'm pooped and put it off and before I know it, it's time to crash and do it again in the morning. I did want to check in mid-week and say I am having a really great time, enjoying every single minute with my 19 artists and I'm very proud of all of them.

In my off-time, Brett and I have long beach walks with Zac and Joey - their first trip away from home. They have been awesome. They own the beach. Tomorrow they'll be 7 months old and they romp, wrestle, run, tumble in the sand without a leash - it's just been amazing to watch them. It just doesn't get any better than this.

We have a longer studio day tomorrow, I'll be sure to get some photos up of the work we've all been doing, and post those when I return home.

Bye for now ~ Karin J

Opening at 16 Patton

2011-10-23T13:15:00.004-05:00

I wanted to thank all those who came by the gallery last night, it was a pleasure meeting you - the opening was lively and fun, my good friends, Karen and Neil were there - Karen has beautiful work at the gallery as well. There's nothing better than seeing it all in person. Neil put up several photos of the event here as well.

I had a lucky night and so very grateful for those red dots - it's the finest compliment an artist can get. A big thanks to Douglas Hoover, an artist who took the time to come by for good conversation, my good friends, Juan and Dennis, and Danna, the owner of the gallery, you all make me very proud.

I've got a busy week, packing up the art stuff, taking some time to travel and photograph before my workshop starts - I hope to blog from the coast. See you soon.

Article on Lines & Colors Blog

2011-10-21T14:43:00.002-05:00

Charley Parker's blog Lines & Colors is my favorite art blog, I read it every day. I can't tell you how much I've learned through his writings, not to mention the discoveries of contemporary artists I now follow religiously. Charley made me proud today, with a post about my new book Museum Hours. Thank you Charley - I greatly appreciate the mention of my New York Life paintings and the posting of my friend, Karen Hollingsworth's new work, who'll be showing tomorrow night at the same opening at 16 Patton, along with Suzy Shultz.

"Outdoor Dining"

2011-10-20T15:27:00.004-05:00

9 x 12"
oil on masonite
sold

I'm packing up my art stuff for a workshop, I won't be painting until I start that up November 1st - I'm really looking forward to it. Lots to do to prepare. Also heading to Asheville on Saturday to attend the opening for a group show at 16 Patton - hope to see you there.

Before I go, I want to show you one of the paintings that will be included in this year's Charleston Art Auction - a scene from my visit last November - some diners I spotted on East Bay Street, outside of Pearlz Oyster Bar, on a cool, autumn evening.

Please click here for a larger view.

Happy Trails ~ I'll be sure to blog from the coast. It's Zac and Joey's first beach trip, so they'll be blogging too.

"Entrenched"

2011-10-17T16:46:00.004-05:00

9 x 12"
oil on masonite
sold

This painting will also be included in the upcoming group show, opening this Saturday at the 16 Patton Gallery - it's one of my personal favorites. I just love the form of the woman's trench coat and thin legs, the brown tones with the mustard-golds, and I love the artworks surrounding her -
William Nicholson's 'Mauve Primulas on a Table', with William Orpen's 'Self Portrait' to the right, donning a trench coat himself. Observed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City.

Please click here for a larger view. To view my paintings included in the group show, please click here.

My New Book 'Museum Hours'

2011-10-15T15:29:00.002-05:00

I've been working on this new book for a good while and it's finally finished and available on Blurb. Museum Hours features color images of 102 paintings (100 are full page and 2 are smaller included in the introduction). These are paintings I've done in the past several years, of my favorite subject to paint - art lovers and museum patrons. The book is 8 x 10" and available in soft-cover and hard-cover (image wrap) - I also included an index in the back of the book for those who like to know the featured artwork and what museum the scene is from. I wanted this to be just right, and I am so pleased with the entire book. I thank you for considering a purchase, it might be the perfect gift for someone you know.

Please click here to preview a portion of the book and to purchase your copy.

New York Dogs

2011-10-14T12:51:00.004-05:00

New York Dogs, No. 1
5 x 5"

A big part of New York Life that delights me - the dogs. They brave the traffic, the noise, the crowds and soften the hard edges of the city.

New York Dogs, No. 2
5 x 5"

New York Dogs, No. 3
5 x 5"

New York Dogs, No. 4
5 x 5"

These five darling dogs were some of those we met up with while walking around New York back in May. We lost our Petey to cancer this past February, and just the slightest eye contact or the feel of their fur convinced us we were missing that in our lives - and as soon as we returned home, we adopted Zac and Joey.

These four paintings will be included in my grouping titled New York Life - part of a group show opening next Saturday at the 16 Patton Gallery - please join us if you can.

For a larger view and purchase information, please click here, and here, and here and here.

"A Good Listener"

2011-10-10T15:43:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Adding to my series Georgia to NYC & Back - after we hopped off the Roosevelt Tramway, we headed to Little Italy for an early dinner - stepped out of the cab and met this handsome, little guy playing it cool. Those ears were too cute, I figured he was a good listener.

"Bag Lady"

2011-10-08T15:44:00.004-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Part of my ongoing series Georgia to NYC & Back - we took a very cool ride on the Roosevelt Island Tramway where you can get fabulous, elevated views of the city. Brett spotted this lady at a crosswalk, loaded down with shopping bags - a very fun composition of shapes, shadows and forms. My kinda scene.

Thank You Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T08:44:00.004-05:00

Steve Jobs created what I call my 'power tools' - the Mac, the iPhone, the iPad, iWeb, iPhoto - all of these genius instruments and programs have profoundly changed my life. Thank you Steve. I am so grateful.

- photo by Art Streiber for Time

"Ledger"

2011-10-05T14:15:00.006-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Put anyone near a window, with good light, and I'll want to paint them. From inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art - and adding to my series Georgia to NYC & Back.

"Daisy Chain"

2011-09-30T08:52:00.010-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Adding on to my series Georgia to NYC & Back - a chain of school girls being led through the sculpture gallery in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I love this painting :)

"Misfortune" & a New Book

2011-09-27T11:38:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

I got a little carried away with the details on this painting - the woman is viewing 'The Fortune Teller', by Georges de La Tour, one of my favorite works of art in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It amuses me - the gentleman in the center is unknowingly being pick-pocketed from behind as the crone is offering him his fortune. This piece will be included in my series Georgia to NYC & Back.

I also have a new book titled 'a shore thing' - it is 7 x 7" and includes 48 color reproductions of paintings inspired from my visits to the beach. It might be a good thing to have around when winter is too much to bear. Please click here to purchase your own copy.

"Smooth Sailing"

2011-09-25T09:07:00.006-05:00

8 x 12"
oil on masonite
sold

I was watching Curb Your Enthusiasm last night - Larry David was arguing with a couple of women, behind him, this (almost exact) view of the 'boat pond', blue skies, little, model sailboats and all. How cool is that.

This painting will be included in the upcoming group show at 16 Patton Gallery - my collection features New York Life.

Please click here for a larger view.

New York Life Book

2011-09-23T15:00:00.005-05:00

I created a show book for my New York Life paintings - there are 14 included in an upcoming group show, the book includes an additional 13 images of pieces currently hanging in the 16 Patton Gallery. The size of the book is 8 x 10", full-color, available in soft-cover and hard-cover on Blurb. I'll have 12 signed copies available at the opening on October 22nd - I would love for you to come by.

My good friend, Karen Hollingsworth, has six, large paintings in the same group show - below is one of my all-time favorites of hers, titled 'Wisdom'.

36 x 36"
oil on canvas

~ Happy Autumn

"In The Pink"

2011-09-22T15:03:00.004-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Adding to my series Georgia to NYC & Back - a small study of two girls, seemingly sisters, both dressed alike in their pink. They were transfixed on Johannes Vermeer's 'Study of a Young Woman', in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

"Cheers"

2011-09-21T14:15:00.004-05:00

9 x 12"
oil on masonite
sold

The morning after I finished this painting, I opened up the New York Times and saw an advertisement for 'Frans Hals in the Metropolitan Museum', featuring his painting 'Yonker Ramp and His Sweetheart' - the same as in my painting. That was cool - I love Frans Hals's work, it's dark and somewhat creepy.

This piece will be included in the upcoming group show at 16 Patton in Asheville, my collection is New York Life.

Please click here for a larger view.

"Listen Up"

2011-09-20T14:26:00.006-05:00

6 x 6"

oil on masonite
sold

While I'm getting all these new paintings ready for the show in October, I'm keeping busy with the brush, loosening up with more of my series Georgia to NYC & Back. Picking up where I left off..... one of my stops, after the workshop wrapped up early afternoon on Tuesday, was the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I have this love/hate for the museum - it's almost too big to take in but filled with the most inspiring works of art. I'm mostly drawn to American Art, but the stuffy portraits of the European privileged amuse me, especially this little painting in my painting - by Diego Velazquez - a portrait of 'The Infanta Maria Theresa, daughter of Philip IV of Spain'. The detail is remarkable, her hair adorned with butterflies and cocoons - an fascinating portrait of a young girl who led an interesting, complicated life.

"Beacon"

2011-09-19T10:55:00.003-05:00

4 x 12"
oil on masonite
sold

During our stay in New York, Brett and I took a sunset cruise, giving us a mellow, colorful view of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty at dusk, then up the East River as darkness set in - it was breathtaking the entire time. This painting is included in my grouping New York Life, part of an upcoming group show at the 16 Patton Gallery, opening October 22nd.

Please click here for a larger view.

"Away From His Desk"

2011-09-17T08:33:00.004-05:00

9 x 12"
oil on masonite
sold

Included in the upcoming group show in October, at the 16 Patton Gallery in Asheville, is this new painting - a gentleman sitting in the warm sunshine with a National Geographic.

Please click here for a larger view.

"Going Straight to Hell's Kitchen"

2011-09-16T12:21:00.003-05:00

4 x 12"
oil on masonite
sold

Last night I finished my last painting for the upcoming group show at the 16 Patton Gallery - all of my pieces are New York scenes, people, and a few dogs I met along the way. Included in the grouping is this new painting - a front seat view from a cab, going south on West End, heading straight to Hell's Kitchen to find a flea market.

Please click here for a larger view.

All of the new paintings can now be viewed on my website, please click here to the show pieces.

"Wine:30"

2011-09-13T17:38:00.008-05:00

10 x 10"

oil on masonite

This new painting will be included in Howard/Mandville's 21st Annual Invitational Small Works Show, opening October 15th - featuring over 90 leading artists. I'm proud to be a part of the show - especially proud of this painting. I over-thought this composition, took a rather busy, lousy photograph and made it work just as I saw it in my head the day I shot the picture. I love it when that happens.

The scene was from an open-air restaurant on Mulberry Street, in Little Italy, New York City.

Please click here for a larger view and purchase information.

I also wanted to announce there are 2 brand-new Tabletop Easels and 3 brand-new Altereasels available for purchase - both perfect tools for painting smaller pieces. Read what other artists say about theirs.

"Four Ways to Brooklyn"

2011-09-10T15:07:00.007-05:00

16 x 4"
oil on masonite
sold

On this somber day, the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I wanted to give all of you a peaceful, colorful, serene image of New York City, and give all due respect to the beauty that surrounds us today.

This is one of the most awe-inspiring views I know - from lower Manhattan looking at the East River where you can see the three bridges - in the far distance, the Williamsburg Bridge, in the center, the Manhattan Bridge, and in the front, the iconic and stunning Brooklyn Bridge.

I've been working hard on paintings for an upcoming show - featuring three women artists, Karen Hollingsworth, Suzy Shultz and myself, titled 'Woman's Work'. My collection is titled 'New York Life' - streetscenes, people, dogs, landmarks all inspired from my trip back in May.
This new painting will be included in the collection.

The show will be held at the 16 Patton Gallery in Asheville - the opening reception is October 22nd from 5-8. I hope you can stop by the gallery and see the work in person.

Please click here for a larger view.

"Fully Booked"

2011-09-07T19:13:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Part of my series Georgia to NYC & Back - it was Monday morning, my first day teaching a workshop. Brett helped me set up and went on his way with his camera while I did my thing. This gentleman was spotted reading a good book on a stoop of a brownstone, somewhere in the Upper East Side of the city.

Help for our Good Friends

2011-09-05T10:55:00.003-05:00

A shout-out to the artists community - Carol and David Marine and their son lost their home in the Bastrop, Texas wildfires on Sunday. Their entire subdivision was wiped out, up to 300 homes. I hear they are all safe, that's great news.

A close family friend, Jennifer, has organized a fund to immediately assist Carol & David - please click here for the details and give what you can to help this family get back on their feet.

~ Thank you all

"Flour Arrangement"

2011-09-02T16:44:00.006-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

I'm happy to report my Mac is back home, I missed it more than ever. Moving on with my series Georgia to NYC & Back - a glimpse of a bakery worker inside Eataly, surrounded by stacks of flour. One of those moments when I suddenly saw a painting in my head.

"The Red Queen's Tarts"

2011-08-31T17:25:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

I'm not quite back in the driver's seat, my beloved Mac should come home tomorrow. It's been an agonizing 10 days without it, I liken it to having all the ingredients for a cake and no oven to bake it in. My Mac contains programs that I don't have anywhere else, including Photoshop, which enables me to get the most accurate image of my paintings. That's a big thing - the presentation matters. You can paint 100's of pieces and it doesn't mean squat if you can't present it well.

I do have a laptop.... but the Photoshop Express version I had wasn't cutting it. I took a gamble and upgraded to version 9, and for those out there who need a good photo editing program and can't afford the full version of Photoshop CS, this does the trick. Now I'm able to post an image that I know is right.

About the latest, I continue on with my series Georgia to NYC & Back - after we left Madison Square Park, where we petted lots of happy dogs (which will be a series included in my upcoming October show) we went into Eataly, a mega-gourmet foods market. It was dazzling to the senses, I loved that place. These artful, sweet desserts were on display in the bakery. Brett suggested the title, he had just watched Alice in Wonderland, and I thought it was perfect.

Forced Break

2011-08-24T13:35:00.004-05:00

My Mac is in the hospital, the one I use from sunup to sundown, the one I use to paint from. Yikes. At first, it forced me to clean the house, clean the studio, take care of things I avoid. Now I'm just frustrated and waiting.

Still waiting........ no Photoshop to show you my latest. This all is driving me nuts. I'm painting from my iPad and laptop - not as blissful as working from my big screen, but it'll do for now.

"Head of Parks & Recreation"

2011-08-18T17:05:00.010-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Today I loosened up with a fun piece - and continuing on with my series Georgia to NYC & Back, we left the High Line, made our way through the chaos of a parade and headed to Madison Square Park for some peace. I love that park. It's filled with happy dogs and a great people-watching stop. I had read about this new installation, commissioned for Madison Square Park, by the Spanish sculptor Jaume Plensa titled 'Echo' - in person, it's just delightful.

"Girl Watching"

2011-08-12T16:25:00.004-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

The High Line is so very cool, an oasis of sorts, a moment of Zen in the big city of New York. I loved the street and sidewalk views from above - this was, I think, looking down onto Little West 12th Street.

I totally intended to get a quick, loose painting done this morning and tackle a larger piece for an upcoming show - didn't happen. I got caught up in the straight lines and cool shadows and shot the whole day working on this. My favorite part is the color combination of the green/blues and warm greys. I'm happy. And I'm adding this new painting to my series Georgia to NYC & Back.

"Calorie Counter"

2011-08-10T16:55:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

There's dozens of paintings I've done in the past particularly because I didn't think I could pull it off. This is one of them. After we left the flea market in Hell's Kitchen, we hit the Chelsea Market, wanting to end up on the High Line while the sun was shining. There's an easy entrance on the back end of the market, for those who don't know.

I liked the Chelsea Market, the building's interior was nicely preserved - photography was nearly impossible because it was quite dark inside - these young women caught my eye, working the counter at L'Arte del Gelato, nice ambiance. And the gelato was great. This new painting is included in my series Georgia to NYC & Back.

"Shopping for Fleas"

2011-08-09T13:25:00.005-05:00

5 x 10"
oil on masonite
sold

I've spent the last five days working on paintings for an upcoming show in October - one took me two days, the other three. Yikes. So unlike me. Time to take a break and loosen up - and continuing on with my series Georgia to NYC & Back - a woman I spotted at our first stop on that bright, sunny, Saturday morning - at a flea market in Hell's Kitchen.

New Tabletop Easels Available

2011-08-03T15:29:00.004-05:00

Brett has 3 brand-new Tabletop Easels available - click here to purchase one for yourself. For more photos and info, click here. If you'd like to hear what other artists say about their Tabletop Easels, click here.

~ Thank you

"Hightailing It"

2011-08-02T12:01:00.004-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Onward with my series Georgia to NYC & Back - it was Saturday morning when we awoke to sunshine and quickly got up and at it. As we stepped out into the real world, it was if all of New York City was coming out of hibernation - their first real, sunny, warm day had finally arrived. The dogs looked happier, the bicycle wheels were rolling and we followed the parade to Riverside Park for a morning walk.

"Shower Stall"

2011-07-31T10:01:00.007-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Continuing on with my series Georgia to NYC & Back - the rain returned on Friday, day 2 in New York, which forced us to catch up on some well-needed rest. We ventured out once in the
afternoon, a brisk walk in the pouring rain to pick up groceries at Zabar's on Broadway - where I spotted this little girl pausing at the crosswalk.

"Homeward Bound"

2011-07-29T08:33:00.006-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Nearing the end of our first full day in Manhattan, we explored Grand Central Terminal for a while - I stood at this high spot for a good, long time squinting at the steady stream of people pouring in - thinking of how I could paint this scene. Lots of movement, ambiance - I really love the way this turned out and I'm adding it to my series Georgia to NYC & Back. Gives me courage to tackle a larger version, from the center floor in the station.

"Mass Transit"

2011-07-28T08:41:00.004-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

There's no place like New York City when it comes to the massive amounts of people on the sidewalks and streets. Put yourself around Grand Central Terminal and you're likely to get run over by the hordes of commuters - this was at the crosswalk on 42nd Street & Madison Avenue, an addition to my series Georgia to NYC & Back.

Zac & Joey

2011-07-27T09:47:00.002-05:00

6 x 6"
nfs

No doubt, one of many paintings of our pups, Zac & Joey. They're doing great and they have their own blog, if you haven't heard.

"Down Under"

2011-07-26T10:23:00.005-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

When cranking out a good painting doesn't come easy, I look at others art. Often it frees the mind. Often I realize I've been trying too hard. Even on these quick, smaller pieces - I can labor over them although the intent is to loosen up. So I took a long look at, my friend and fellow painter, Carol Marine's recent work - reminding me to lay down quick, deliberate brush strokes and not to sweat the details. Yes, I too, have to be reminded.

Continuing on with my series Georgia to NYC & Back, after the Boat Pond, we jumped in a cab and headed to Bryant Park for some people-watching, only to find it was a mess from the long spell of rain. Wondering what direction to take next, I found some interest in the people descending into the subway station, at the corner of 42nd & 6th. I never really 'saw a painting in my head' at this spot, but turns out I love this piece. A good reminder to keep shooting pictures no matter where you are.

"Sailor Man"

2011-07-21T16:20:00.012-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

The gentleman who wrote to me recently, about his boyhood hobby of sailing these cool pond boats in the Conservatory Water in Central Park (otherwise known as the Boat Pond), inspired me to paint this new piece - an addition to my series Georgia to NYC & Back. Just goes to show, simple pleasures are the best.

and.... for those artists who paint smaller pieces, take a fresh look at my custom-built Tabletop Easel as well as the AlterEasel that fits into a stand-up easel - it makes for a better painting experience, I promise. Brett has listed 2 brand-new AlterEasels - they're ready to ship. My Tabletop Easel is also available, click on the link on the right hand column.

"Standstill"

2011-07-20T14:35:00.004-05:00

8 x 10"
oil on masonite
sold

A new painting taken from the Metropolitan Museum of Art - a young lady stands before Jean Honore Fragonard's two portraits of the pampered - 'The Two Sisters' on the right and "Portrait of a Woman with a Dog' on the left. Of course I like that one, it includes a dog.

Please click here for a larger view.

"Treed Tops"

2011-07-18T15:51:00.006-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

If you're a painter and want to loosen up, I suggest tackling buildings - unless you want to include every single window, you find a way to get the point across but not get too nit-picky. It's a challenge. The same goes for trees. It's an impressionistic 'glimpse', I don't think the details really matter.

This view is from Central Park's Conservatory Water (is that right?), a moment of Zen as we walked around 5th Avenue on our first full day in the city. I particularly loved seeing the rooftop trees around New York. Nice, surprising sprouts of green. This painting is included in my series Georgia to NYC & Back.

a little info......a nice man from New York wrote me to say, "what you painted is what we old New Yorker's call the 'boat pond'. Growing up... the Boat Pond was a very important part of this kid's life starting with E.B. White's 'Stuart Little'. " This gentleman is still building and repairing pond model boats - how cool is that? The morning we were there, more than a few kids were steering those little sailboats, just like old times. Thanks for the info Mike.

"Sun Block"

2011-07-15T13:02:00.004-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

I really like this piece. I typically avoid busy compositions, too many people in one space - but the abstract-like blocks and lines of color, surprisingly, seemed to contain it all, in a cool way. This new painting is an addition to my new series Georgia to NYC & Back.

"Security Lapse"

2011-07-12T14:43:00.007-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Some of the best people-watching can be found in front of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, like this museum security guard taking a break out in the sunshine - an addition to my series Georgia to NYC & Back.

"The Patriot"

2011-07-10T12:31:00.008-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Adding to my series Georgia to NYC & Back - it was Thursday, our first full day in the city, the rain had finally given way to a slightly sunny morning. We headed to where my workshop was to take place, around 89th & 5th, fueled up with breakfast, then walked to the Metropolitan Museum of Art - a goldmine of people-watching inside and outside. I spotted this sharp-dressed man in his red, white and blue, resting on a bench along the front of the museum.

My Good Friend Neil Hollingsworth

2011-07-08T12:09:00.008-05:00

Coke Classic
by Neil Hollingsworth

It's the weekend, Zac & Joey turned 3 months old, my guy Brett has a birthday and I'm taking a few days off from painting and court TV. It's time to celebrate.

My good friend, Neil Hollingsworth, just emailed from Maine - he and his wife, Karen, are up in the New England area to attend Neil's solo show - opening tomorrow evening at the Tree's Place Gallery in Orleans, Massachusetts. If you're able, please go see his work in person - it's absolutely breathtaking.

the Paint On AlterEasel

I also just heard from an artist who recently bought Brett's Tabletop Easel - NJ wrote 'I just wanted to tell you that I LOVE this easel. Best investment I have made in my art in quite a while, and I now use it daily! It is exactly what I needed before I even knew what I wanted!!!'
Paint on NJ, and thank you for letting us know.

You can read more testimonials here - additional photos and details for the Tabletop Easel and the AlterEasel can be found here. Right now, we have 1 brand new AlterEasel available - the Tabletop Easels are temporarily SOLD OUT.

Have a great weekend ~

"Twilights"

2011-07-05T15:34:00.007-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

New in my series Georgia to NYC & Back - on the first evening in our home-away-from-home, a stunning view from our own rooftop terrace. We stayed in the Upper West Side, around 93rd and Broadway - surrounded by towering apartment buildings. The rain turned into a mist, I stood transfixed at this view, noticing the different lighting in each and every window - certainly an inspiration for any artist. Just beautiful.

"A Sunday With Georges"

2011-07-03T11:51:00.003-05:00

12 x 12"
oil on masonite
sold

I'd been working on this piece for several days - the painting within, Georges Seurat's 'A Sunday on La Grande Jatte', is sooooo complex, sooooo detailed - I have to go slow. I have to pay attention to everything Seurat methodically included. It's an amazing work of art.

To quote my favorite art critic, Sister Wendy, "Seurat spent two years painting this picture, concentrating painstakingly on the landscape of the park before focusing on the people: always their shapes, never their personalities. Individuals did not interest him, only their formal elegance. There is no untidiness in Seurat: all is beautifully balanced. The park was quite a noisy place: a man blows his bugle, children run around, there are dogs. Yet the impression we receive is of silence, of control, of nothing disordered. Even if the people in the park are pairs or groups, they seem alone in their concision of form - alone but not lonely. No figure encroaches on another's space: all coexist in peace."

Please click here for a larger view.

Wishing you a Happy 4th ~

"Life In The Fast Lane"

2011-07-01T16:54:00.010-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Part of my new series Georgia to NYC & Back - a guy walking briskly by an advertisement, in the rain, on the sidewalks of Manhattan.

Artists on the DailyPaintworks

2011-06-29T14:22:00.004-05:00

I recently joined the DailyPaintworks artists - and if you haven't visited the site, I suggest you get yourself a cup of coffee, sit back and browse the artwork of some really talented painters. The artist Carol Marine and her husband David have really worked hard at creating this site/community for artists like myself - it includes auctions, a blog, forums, challenges to take part in and a resource page that's all artists should check out. Let me add to that - if you're a buyer/collector of art, the DailyPaintworks is where you need to look. Hats off to David for devoting himself to building this site and I'm proud to be a part of it.

"Welcome To The Jungle"

2011-06-26T15:15:00.006-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Maybe I'm distracted with the new pups - maybe it's just too hot. It's been tough getting a painting done that I like. Then I turned on a couple of old episodes of Columbo, and it just flowed. I should know by now that's what makes me tick, some good television going while I paint.

Anyways...... this new piece is part of my new series Georgia to NYC & Back - our first glimpse of the Concrete Jungle as we arrived in the pouring rain.

"Going Grey"

2011-06-23T15:58:00.006-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

On with the road trip series Georgia to NYC & Back - a late afternoon on our second day on the road, destination somewhere around Reading, Pennsylvania - really beautiful landscapes along the way. Despite the looming grey skies, the saturation of the landscape colors was even more stunning.

Being a guest on Blog Talk Radio today was fun, I faced my fear of talking live to a large audience, so there. Truthfully, the hosts, Leslie Saeta and Dreama Tolle Perry made it easy and I thank them for that. I really enjoyed it. If you missed the live broadcast, you can listen to the show here.

A couple of things to mention......

2011-06-20T11:51:00.013-05:00

This Thursday, the 23rd, I'll be a guest on the Artists Helping Artists internet radio show - you can listen to Live Streaming starting at 12 noon EST.
Some other helpful information:
To listen live and ask a question - call 646-915-9243 and when you want to be heard, press #1 to be in the hosts queue.
To listen to the recorded show later or download via iTunes, click here.

The Sedona Arts Center has arranged a workshop for me and 19 students next spring in San Francisco - the dates are April 9-13, 2012, held at the Friends School of San Francisco. Please contact Vince Fazio to reserve your spot, there are 9 openings remaining. You can call the Sedona Arts Center at 888-954-4442. Thank you.

"Dirty Deed"

2011-06-17T13:33:00.008-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Continuing down a Pennsylvania road on the way to Reading, a tractor kicks up some dirt as we pass by. A new addition to my series Georgia to NYC & Back.

"Mockery"

2011-06-15T09:05:00.007-05:00

9 x 12"
oil on masonite

A new painting that will arrive to the Howard/Mandville Gallery by mid-July, a young woman viewing 'Portrait of a Man, possibly Nicolaes Pietersz Duyst van Voorhout' by the Dutch artist Frans Hals - from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Please click here for a larger view and purchase information.

"Stor-All"

2011-06-14T08:51:00.008-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

A new painting in my series Georgia to NYC & Back - an Amish family's farm around Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

"Tinted Window"

2011-06-11T10:03:00.008-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

Even a dismal day can inspire a painting. The second in my new series Georgia to NYC & Back - an old mill house we spotted along the Lincoln Highway in Pennsylvania.

"The Grass is Greener"

2011-06-10T09:57:00.007-05:00

6 x 6"
oil on masonite
sold

When I paint demos in my workshop, I get to do it fast and loose, which I love. I need that balance of both - working on the more-realized, detailed pieces and the come-what-may smaller ones. What I decided I'd do, as I'm sorting through close to 4,500 photos we took on our recent trip, is to paint a series of 6 x 6's of our adventures from start to finish - I'll call it Georgia to NYC & Back.

Starting with the first couple of days on the road - driving east on the Lincoln Highway in Pennsylvania around Gettysburg, Lancaster, etc. This was a moment when the skies were dark and a storm was passing over, with a glimpse of blue skies above - yet the sun was shining on the green fields in the foreground. So beautiful.

Also wanted to let you know Zac & Joey have a new blog - a way for us to keep a diary of the two of them growing up. Please click here for your daily dose of cuteness.

"Sunbird"

2011-06-08T15:56:00.003-05:00

8 x 10"
oil on masonite
sold

You may recognize this from the demo I painted on the first day in the recent workshop - I painted this study before I left for New York, intending to bring it with me and work it a bit more during class, but it was too wet to travel. Now that I'm back, I finished it and would like to offer it on auction.

This young man had been playing in the fountain in Washington Square Park and parked himself in the sun to dry off.

Puppy Update

2011-06-07T17:02:00.004-05:00

I must show you all these ridiculously cute pups - relaxed after their swimming lesson.

Let me add.... if you're ever wary of adopting rescue/homeless dogs - these guys got an A+ from the vet. If you're compelled to adopt their siblings or parents (2-3 years old), I'd be happy to get you hooked up with the foster mom.

Road Trip & Workshop in NYC

2011-06-06T14:51:00.022-05:00

I thought I'd blog during the road trip to New York City, during the workshop week - but there's only so much I could do in a day - the postings just would have to wait. So bear with me as I encapsulate it all in this one posting. Then it's time to get to painting.

Brett and I picked a route going north through Virginia and end up around Lancaster, Pennsylvania - it's a beautiful area I wanted to photograph again. But.... the weather wasn't cooperating, although it was a couple of days of Zen driving through small towns and enjoying the scenery.

Soon enough, the Zen disappeared as we drove into Manhattan, in the pouring down rain.

Didn't take but a minute to spot the Naked Cowboy entertaining the tourists in Times Square.

We finally settled into our home away from home, a rooftop apartment we rented, on the Upper West Side, with a stunning and ever-changing skyline I never tired of during our stay. Just amazing.

We spent the next several days exploring, marveling over the humanity everywhere.

All the chaos just melted away when you met up with a dog. They soften the rough edges of city life.

Once the sun broke out, we went to a flea market in Hell's Kitchen.....

...where we spotted the unofficial ambassador of the city.....

...then checked out the views from the High Line, a genius way to use an unused rail line.

Next thing we knew, we happened upon a Dancing Parade....

...which led us to Madison Square Park where this striking sculpture, Echo, by Jaume Plensa stood beautifully in the bright sunshine.

Nearby, the iconic Flatiron Building.....

.... then a stop at Eataly for some sweets.

After a day of rest, the first day of the workshop began, with
me doing a demo for my 17 students.

6 x 6"
sold

Then it was off to the Metropolitan Museum of Art for some photos. I've been watching HBO's series 'Game of Thrones', so I was diggin' the armor on exhibit.

The second day of the workshop was fantastic, the artists painted from my photograph I used for Monday's demo as well as their own photos they had taken in the city.......

This was my demo for Tuesday's class.

5 x 7"
sold

That evening, one of my generous students held a get-together at her place, which included this amazing view from her terrace. So cool.

Wednesday, we all painted in the morning and early afternoon, then hurried out into the bright sunshine for some photography. My demo was a New York dog I had met in Riverside Park.

6 x 6"
sold

In the afternoon we headed to Little Italy for a meatball sandwich and gelato....

.... then back to the apartment to watch the skyline light up as the sun went down.

Thursday's class was the longer day, I started with a demo of a mugshot....

4 x 4"
sold

...then invited my students to paint their own mugshot, the results really blew me away.
This artist was breaking in her new Paint On Tabletop Easel.

Later in the afternoon, I painted another demo for the hard-cores who stuck around.

6 x 6"
sold

The last day of the workshop went way too fast, I managed to get in
one more demo before we wrapped it up.

5 x 10"
sold

By Friday afternoon, all we could do was have our last meal at our favorite Greek place around the corner from the apartment and put our feet up. Nine full days in New York City was spectacular, my students were so great, so talented, so open. Vince Fazio, from the Sedona Arts Center, who facilitates my workshops, was incredibly helpful in class - so grateful for the opportunity. It was a fantastic experience for me.

The trip wasn't over just yet, Brett and I headed out of the city, with a stop at Rutt's Hut in Clifton, New Jersey, for a couple of hot dogs....

...then to his family's place where we were spoiled with great food and conversation and some needed rest. We had the quintessential Memorial Day holiday, visited Arlington National Cemetery .....

... and ended the day with blueberry-raspberry pie that was to-die-for.

Of course it's always wonderful to get back home - now we're enjoying our new puppies and getting back to painting and building easels.

Our New Pups

2011-06-04T07:27:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was a big day ~ Brett and I adopted two brothers.
Meet Zac and Joey.

They are a mix of rat terrier and miniature pinscher - just as sweet as can be. We adopted them from the Little Nuggets Rescue, located in Snellville, Georgia - Lynne is one of the rescue 'moms' who has a lot of dogs that need a good home, including three brothers and sisters and the mom and dad of Zac & Joey. They're all gems. If you're considering a new dog, please check out their website Little Nuggets Rescue ~ Lynne would be grateful and can arrange for any dog to be transported to your location.

It's a happy time here :)

"Checked Out"

2011-06-02T18:00:00.004-05:00

8 x 8"
oil on masonite

Happy June to you - I thought this new painting was a great kick-off to summertime. A couple removed from real life and chilling out. Please click here for a larger view and purchase info.

Well....... I fully intended to blog during my roadtrip and workshop - truth is, from day one, it was go-go-go and by the time I relaxed in the evenings, I was too pooped to pop. But I will tell you, New York was fabulous, the workshop was hugely successful and we finally arrived home just yesterday. Between Brett and myself, we took close to 5,000 photographs - which I'm loading as we speak. Lots to catch up on.

Promise, I'll get a new post up within a day or so, workshop photos, demo paintings and all.

Painting New York, NY & Easels

2011-05-10T15:56:00.010-05:00

I created this new book primarily for my upcoming workshop in New York, hopefully to inspire my students (a freebie if you're one of them). When I saw the finished product, I loved it so much, I thought I'd offer it to all of you out there who would enjoy the paintings I've done from my past visits to the Big Apple. The book includes 51 color reproductions featuring scenes from the parks, sidewalks, streets, restaurants, museums and a few from the New York Stock Exchange and Grand Central Terminal.

To purchase this new book from Blurb, please click here.

also....... Brett has sold out of the newest tabletop easels and more will be available around mid-June. If you'd like to be on a waiting list, email us at paintoneasel(at)mindspring(dot)com.

Brett had this new design on his mind for a couple of months, a support base that will fit on a stand-up easel, for those who prefer standing and painting. The dilemma, when painting small pieces, is that it's uncomfortable and awkward - so he took the same design, without the base and added two adjustable stop bars so you can position the smaller panels where you want. It works beautifully. He's calling it the Paint On AlterEasel.

He's taking several to my workshop - when we return, he'll start selling those as well as the tabletop easels. We wanted some feedback on the idea and the need - if you're compelled to comment, let us know.

The Paint On AlterEasel

We both appreciate your patronage - it will most certainly help fund the big road trip ahead. I hope to keep blogging during my adventures and the workshop - I'm really looking forward to it.

Happy Trails ~ Karin J

ps...... any comments left earlier were lost in the recent Blogger crash.