perfectlygoode

Love of Art Blog Hop

2012-02-17T05:01:00.000-08:00

You probably noticed the blog hop button on my side bar.....I have never joined a "blog hop" before, but somehow this one touched my heart.

Why do I love Art.....

Freedom to fly to soar....

To Inspire....and be inspired....

To "Embrace the Beauty" that surrounds us all

To Surprise

To Reach out...to touch and be touched

To be Who I am

"To capture for one brief moment in time.....a moment of Beauty"

to share

to love

to teach

Flamingo Fini!

2012-02-13T09:59:00.000-08:00

Here is the final painting....I'm pretty satisfied with myself on this one. I'll be posting it for sale in the near future on my website. Trying now to get a good print...now that is a whole n'other subject of frustration! I have an Epson photo 1400 and I'm printing on Epson paper (photo luster). The two that I have tried have come out rather dark...so I'm tweaking in photoshop elements to try and get the print as close to the original as I can. Anyone got any tips on that I'm ALL EARS. I always feel like I'm wasting ink and paper....cause it takes 4 or 5 prints to finally get it right!

Flamingo Part 3

2012-02-07T04:20:00.000-08:00

A little about materials. I love my acrylics and right now I'm using Decoart's Traditions. My palette consist of White, Black, Burnt Umber, Ultra Blue, Cream, Raw Sienna, Burnt Sienna, and Grey. My painting surface is an 8 inch x 8 inch Gesso board with a 3/4 inch cradle. I'm very detailed with my paintings and I have found Gesso board's smooth surface makes achieving that detail so much easier. I do plan to try some illustration board at some point and also planning on experimenting with some Golden Acrylics. I know that is what a lot of Acrylic artist use because they are pigment rich. I'm pretty happy with Decoart, but always room for improvement!

I know....doesn't seem like much progress for a days work......

I'm still building up the values on the beak with washes. I build them up slowly...each layer a little darker or lighter....til I get the richness I'm looking for. On the head, I have started to lay in the individual feathers. Many times I will use white or cream to put in the texture then I go back and wash over the hairs with the different values. I repeat that process as needed.

Again...each individual feather is painted...lay down the values, then add texture, repeat as necessary. It is a long process, but I do so love the results when it all comes together. I usually have music playing as I work and my hubby always knows when things are going well with a painting......cause I dance....not unusual for him to see me twirling and singing around the living room. I just have to let all that JOY out!

Flamingo Part 2

2012-02-04T17:51:00.000-08:00

Here we are....I'm building the basic textures and slowly building up lights and darks. This is all done with washes of color. My palette is burnt umber, white, cream, grey, ultra blue, and burnt sienna. As I lay in the washes I'm careful to keep my brush strokes in the direction of the feathers.

A closer look at the feathers and neck/head area below. Again...I'm just trying to establish the basic shapes of the feathers and beginning to build layers of color

I do use a matte medium (mixed with 50% water) in between the layers of washes. It preserves the work completed and aids in adding depth to the painting.

Flamingo painting....background work

2012-01-31T09:07:00.000-08:00

Made it back to my easel....and I have been working on creating the background for my little flamingo painting. I do like to at least get a solid background foundation before I start on the focal point. In this particular painting, I am trying my hand at a little abstraction and I may eventually add a little mix media....will shall see.....

I started by transferring the outline of my drawing....I like knowing exactly where my focal point is when I'm working. I also prefer to start work on a white surface. Here I have laid in the first washes of color using Burnt Umber and Ultramarine Blue. Loose strokes and then a bit of saran wrap, crinkled and applied to the surface.....

The saran wrap lifts the wet paint from the surface....leaving those nice little pockets of texture and sparkle behind.

Here I have added another wash...same colors...and a little more saran wrap texture.

Several more layers of washes and then I applied some clear glaze to protect the layers done. Next I played with some drips and runs of white and even threw in some speckles. I'm happy at this point. Next I'll start work on the flamingo.....

I'm just loving this painting so far....I'm working on an 8x8 gessoboard with a 3/4 inch cradle. Any questions or comments are welcome!

To Dream....to lift my wings and fly...

2012-01-27T09:16:00.000-08:00

I took a walk yesterday and found another beautiful pink bird. I was trying my best to be unobtrusive, but get as close as he/she would allow with my camera.

I love this shot.....the contrast of the mossy green water with the pink of the bird. This Roseate Spoonbill is quietly going about its day and then suddenly, without warning.....

Lift off.....

So...what has this to do with dreaming.....
I'm taking this class, doing a lot of soul searching and dreaming. I have been quietly thinking, wondering, exploring. Digging deep.....listening to my heart's whispers...and then suddenly, without warning....
I....me....myself...am spreading my wings and taking flight
soaring high..where will I land....I don't know...yet
right now I'm just enjoying the freedom...to be who I was meant to be.....

Beauty, Grace, Elegance

2012-01-24T07:44:00.000-08:00

I have always loved flamingos.....not just for their color. Their long graceful necks....the soft, cotton candy look of their feathers. Even the curve of their beak.

Here is the sketch of a young flamingo.....he or she will soon be on my easel.

Most of us know that flamingos aren't naturally pink in color, that comes from the food they eat. But did you know that doesn't start to happen until a flamingo is between one and three years of age.

Passion meets passion

2012-01-19T04:38:00.000-08:00

“making a difference” I think that pretty much sums it all up for me. I want to make a difference in an animal’s life. Helping that animal find a forever home or making a donation that allows an animal to continue to be cared for…It fulfills me, brings me great joy! So I’m passionate about animals and I’m passionate about painting…it only makes since to bring the two together and let one fuel the other. I found a quote today that I”m going to keep close to my heart and soul….”let the beauty of what you love be what you do” (Rumi)

The WHY

2012-01-17T04:44:00.000-08:00

I'm on a journey of self discovery....taking a hard look at Who I am and What and Why I do what I do. It is day 2 of the class taught by Kelly Rae Roberts and Beth Nicholis, "Hello Soul, Hello Business". The question....what I'm trying to define for myself and my business is, "Why?" Simply put....I love to paint. I'm completely and utterly in love with what happens at the end of my paint brush. The color, the texture, the movement.....all pouring out.....a beautiful, precious gift. But, Why do I have this gift? What can I do with it?

“To find your mission in life is to discover the intersection between your heart’s deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger.” -Frederick Buechner

How true is that! My heart's deep gladness....painting and a love of animals. The world.....has many deep hungers. But one in particular stands out to me....the animals.

"What is man without the beasts? If all the beasts were gone, men would die from a great loneliness of spirit. for whatever happens to the beasts, soon happens to man. All things are connected." Chief Seattle

All things are connected....and I do believe we are each put on this earth for a purpose. We are each given a "gift" to nurture, to explore, and to share. My gift and my Why must work together......

"It is my most sincere wish that through my paintings you can see what I see....the beauty, grace, and intelligence all animals possess. Every animal is unique and special and I try to honor that through my paintings. We must learn to respect the animals of this earth and protect and treasure them." Debbie Goode

I think I had forgotten that for a time.....I became so wrapped up in the "business of Art" that my passion, my joy, my mission....was lost to me. There is more....so much more...and I think I'm teetering on the brink of something truly amazing!

Self Discovery and Creative Bliss

2012-01-11T07:08:00.000-08:00

"To be an artist it is not necessary to make a living from our creations. Nor is it necessary to have work hanging in fine museums or the praise of critics....To be an artist it is necessary to live with our eyes wide open, to breathe in the colors of mountain and sky, to know the sound of leaves rustling, the smell of snow, the texture of bark....To be an artist is to notice every beautiful and tragic thing, to cry freely, to collect experience and shape it into forms that others can share" Jan Phillips

I found this quote in a new book I'm reading and loving...."The Creative Photographer" by Catherine Anderson. It is truly life changing and I intend to embrace it with all my being. I'm giving myself permission to explore, to taste, to experience, to listen....eyes wide open....

I have a project brewing in my head.....it is still developing, still unfolding....but definitely on it's way....

This photo I took at the Tampa Zoo is my inspiration......

Pabric?

2012-01-09T06:39:00.000-08:00

No, I didn't misspell my title to this post. In my quest to "explore and discover", I have been doing a little research in cyber space. I have know about ink jet printing on fabric, but was really never satisfied with the results or the longevity of the print. "Pabric" claims to have solved both of these problems. I placed my order today through Amazon. I will share my results and insights here on my blog. If the product preforms as advertised, it will open a new door for me. One where I can combine my paintings with my love of sewing. Pabric also offers a fabric cardstock....supposed to be outstanding for greeting cards and mix media applications. Yes, I ordered a pack of that as well. If any of you have used these products in the past, I would love to hear your insights!

Another first for me in this New Year, I sent out my first newsletter! I plan on sending out my newsletter 4 times a year. If you are interesting in joining my mailing list you can access it here.

I think I'm off to a pretty good start and I plan on starting a new painting very soon.....flamingos!

Explore, Dream, Discover

2012-01-06T05:16:00.000-08:00

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

I know a lot of folks are choosing "a word" for the New Year. I ran across this quote the other day and decided that pretty much "said it all" for me.

EXPLORE. DREAM. DISCOVER.

A Simple Gift

2012-01-04T12:50:00.000-08:00

Just a few days ago I received a very special....yet simple gift. It came address to the "Lovely Debbie Goode". Amazing how something as simple and sweet as that can uplift the spirit. I smiled, I felt so very special. The gift was wrapped in pink with a silver bow. I wish I would have had my camera for the "before", but I was too excited to see what was inside.....

There it is....a journal by the lovely Kelly Rae.

I will soon be taking a class called Hello Soul, Hello Business. This New Year is about change for me....a new direction....a new sense of self. My life is good...I'm happy and yet I just can't seem to find my Artistic path. That has left my spirit, my soul somewhat unsettled and restless. I have tried many paths, some more successful than others, but all have let me wanting more....needing more. "Hello Soul, Hello Business" came into my life at a most opportune moment.....I don't believe in coincidences....everything in my being said "Just Do It" and this time I listened! The class begins on Jan 16th and I will be sharing my adventures here with you. I hope you will follow along adding your comments and impressions to mine...."Let the Journey Begin"....

Rolling down the Road....

2011-11-22T04:25:00.000-08:00

We have been traveling as you know. It has been so challenging trying to keep up with two blogs and I'm afraid I have neglected this one. Most of my time these days has been on my Travel Blog. If you have the time, you may want to check it out. I got some great photos in the last couple of post. Here is a sneak peek.....

Seagulls on Tybee Island

A quiet and reflective walk.....Bonaventure Cemetery.........
We are currently in Brunswick GA and will be spending Thanksgiving on St Simon Island with family. I hope you all have wonderful times ahead and that the upcoming Holiday Season is filled with much joy and many blessings.......

Alone time....

2011-10-28T05:33:00.000-07:00

" The woman who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before."
-Albert Einstein-

Now isn't that the truth! I have followed the crowd and I have walked alone...both have there place in my life. Those times that I walk alone; however, are rich will self discovery and new experiences. I find that I am so much more focused and open to new ideas. I seem to see the world as though seeing it for the first time. Maybe it is because I am not truly alone....God is there beside me. My spiritual rock....it is at those times I'm able to hear him best....whispering in my ear....showing me his world through his eyes in all its beauty. Whispering to me, guiding me down my creative path. It is amazing what you hear.....if you are quiet, open your heart and your eyes, and just listen......

Hello Soul....Hello Business

2011-10-24T04:36:00.000-07:00

I'm taking an online class....something I have only done once before. I'm a follower of Kelly Rae Roberts Blog. If you don't know anything of her, I encourage you to check her out. She is a great source of inspiration to me. She and Beth Nicholls are giving an online course called "Hello Soul, Hello Business". It is about a new way to do business. I love being an Artist, but I hate the business end of it. Maybe because I feel I waste so much time trying to figure out how to "sell" how to "market" with no to little results. Feeling like I'm just spinning my wheels, most of the time. I'm hoping to find a new sense of direction a new way of thinking and doing business from this course. I need to be able to combine my passion for painting with a passion for business. I also want to expand my art beyond canvas. What do I mean by that..... I love to sew....I love jewelery...I love photography....I love writing and teaching. I would like to incorporate these "loves" into one fabulously successful business. I'm not ashamed to say...."I want it all"! I need to connect with other folks who feel the same way....and connect with folks who can show me a path and light a fire within me. A fire burning so brightly that it lights my way, my path....to "fearlessly be myself"!

Great Sadness...

2011-10-18T05:47:00.000-07:00

My last post I mentioned our travel plans. Going to go visit my Aunt and Uncle in a few days on our journey south....last night....I learned my Uncle was killed in an auto accident. It was a one car accident and I don't know how it happened...my Uncle was a diabetic so that could certainly be a contributing factor. I think we are all in shock now. Just last month I saw my Aunt and Uncle....gave them both hugs and told them I loved them...so thankful for that moment. My uncle was a big man with a big heart. He was always happy to see me...always happy to help with anything. If he had it and you needed it...it was yours. He wasn't perfect...he certainly had made some mistakes in his life....but who hasn't. I was so looking forward to our visit. My Uncle loved Kentucky Lake...it would have been our first time seeing their place. I would have loved to have seen it through his eyes...he was so proud of it. Such sadness...such a loss...I will miss him. Don't miss an opportunity to tell those you love...that you love them....you never know what tomorrow will bring.

Leopard Part 2

2011-10-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I am struggling with my Leopard painting. I can't quite put my finger on it, but things are not where I want them to be...

I know I don't have enough variation of color in the fur....right now I'm just getting texture and direction using white. Once I'm satisfied with that I will add washes of color over the white to add depth and color. The bridge of the nose.....wow....frustration to the max at this point. It is too dark and needs transparency. I think I have redone it at least 10 times....pulling my hair out in the process....LOL! I feel I'm just pushing to hard on this one. Feeling the pressure of trying to accomplish a top notch painting while watching the calendar. We will be heading south soon and I wanted to have this guy finished before we left. I am also entering a juried art show...they will accept 3 paintings...I have two ready to go and wanted to have this for number three. They have to be digitally submitted by Nov 1. In the end, I seemed to be just spinning my wheels. I think I need to take a break....and STOP watching that calender....IT TAKES WHAT IT TAKES... I need to be satisfied with two paintings and stop making myself so nuts..."sigh"
This will be my first try at a "juried" art show....I'll admit I'm a bit nervous. Which is probably why I'm trying too hard and worrying too much and looking for an excuse to NOT do it. So, I'm taking a big breath and gonna relax and just let it happen.....

A little Eye Candy for your morning.....

2011-10-12T05:56:00.000-07:00

My Mom and I went to the Indianapolis Zoo yesterday and I captured a few of its inhabitants. I will have to say though that I was a bit disappointed in the Zoo. There really isn't much there, but they charge like the larger zoos. I know I will not go back....too much money and too little "bang"...if ya know what I mean!

A Beginning....Leopard WIP

2011-10-10T05:43:00.000-07:00

I am finally back to my easel! The past few weeks have been a bit of a blur and I'm sorry I didn't get anymore of our travel photos posted. That is the problem with keeping two blogs. Since we were in travel-mode I focused on my Travel Blog and unfortunately the painting blog was left to fend for itself....LOL!
Now we are back in Lafayette Indiana and I have started a new painting. This guy was having a relaxing day at the zoo in Desert Springs CA.

The photo above is at the very beginning of my process. This is the "ugly" stage of the painting. I wanted to share this because so many folks don't realize just how "ugly" things can get in the early stages of a painting. When I was teaching, many of my students would want to "give up" at this point. I always tried to persuade them to stick it out...take a break....walk away for awhile if needed, but come back and keep going.

This photo is kinda my "trial and error" part of the painting. My reference photo is above the painting. I'm trying to see what is going to work in terms of color and texture. The background is pretty well finished....it took a lot of layers to get the depth and value I wanted to achieve. One thing I have to keep in mind is that the reference photo....was taken through glass. So the colors and detail of the leopard are somewhat softened and blurred. I'm going to make the painting a bit more colorful then the photo! Thanks for checking out this post and as always....questions, comments, and critiques are all welcome!

Travels About!

2011-09-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

Ok...so I know I have been gone for awhile, but I have just been so busy with "stuff"!! We have been moving pretty quickly, first we headed to Elkhart Indiana to have some work done on our fifth wheel. It was an exhausting two weeks.....but well worth it for the improvements made to our lifestyle. Here is a photo of one of our biggest improvements which will make my life so much easier.....

Bibbity Bobbity Boo!! A new washer and dryer....no more laundry mats....no more saving quarters.....no more...no more!!

From Elkhart, we made our way to Richmond, Indiana for an overnight stay at a quaint little campground. I took an early evening walk and found.......

This spooky little bird bath.....just something about it that drew me in. Love the color and the soft reflections in the water and towering over her.......

is this sleeping giant of the forest. I didn't even know what I had captured until I downloaded this on my computer. No photoshoping.....I caught this because the evening lighting and textures were just right. Isn't he magnificent!

Currently we are taking it easy in a great little park in Cincinnati Ohio. The weather is cloudy and overcast, but me and my camera are still going to get "out and about" so hopefully I will have some great photos for my next post.

Travel Plans

2011-08-07T06:55:00.000-07:00

Looks like we will be heading a bit up north Sept 6th to have some work done on our fifth wheel....Elkhart, Indiana to be exact. While there we will also stop over in Middlebury, where there is a large Amish community. They have the most wonderful grocery there and I plan to purchase some of their wonderful cheeses, fresh spices, and bake goods. Once we finish up there, we will head down to Cincinnati Ohio. We have been having trouble with our on demand hot water system and plan to visit the manufacturer for some "tweaking" of the system. Of course, I can't pass up an opportunity to visit the Cincinnati Zoo while there. I'm planning on two full days of photo shoots to add to my stash of reference photos for future paintings. Really excited about that opportunity. From there...not sure, may slip down into Kentucky to visit some family before heading back to Lafayette for about another month and then down to Florida come the end of October.
I do have a commissioned piece I'll be working on......hopefully, I'll be able to post some wips along the way.

Giraffe FINI!

2011-07-31T08:10:00.000-07:00

All done!

I have to say I had fun painting this little fellow!

Giraffe Part 4

2011-07-27T07:49:00.000-07:00

I finished up my second sewing job of reupholstering my dining chair and I'm happy to say I am back at my easel......

Very happy with my progress....the mouth and nose area are starting to come together. Don't you just love that perfectly goofy look!

Just a little closer look.....I brought up the highlight in the eyes a bit.

One of my post a while back mentioned my interview on PetLife Radio. Well....it is up and available for your listening pleasure....LOL! Episode 13...find it here. You can also read a bit about the interview here.

My Sewing Project.....half done!

2011-07-21T06:18:00.000-07:00

I mentioned on an earlier blog that I had started to reupholster my dining room chairs. Yesterday, I actually finished one of them.

Here is a close up view. I do have a passion for fabrics and it has been great fun to be back at my sewing machine.

Here is a view of the chair in our "dining room" with the table. I need to "tidy up" the storage boxes underneath the table. Maybe I could do some type of a fabric topper...to hide their contents a bit more. Sew.....I have one more chair to go. Ya all know how one thing leads to another.....I'm really like-in the fresh look of the chair and may have to jump on my window treatments next!

Giraffe Part 3

2011-07-17T06:57:00.000-07:00

I managed to put in some time on my giraffe painting yesterday.......

As always I wish I were moving a little faster, but overall I'm pleased with the results. I do see a bit of a flat spot to the left of the right eye, but that is an easy fix. I think one of the more difficult areas is the that bulging eye.....it is heavily shaded by the lid and those gorgeous long, thick eyelashes. That makes for a very dark eye area....not much of a highlight. I will probably try to see if I can bring the highlight up a bit more...just to add some sparkle to the eye.

So..did ya know I sew!

2011-07-15T04:26:00.000-07:00

I know many of you are wondering where I have gotten off to.....once again. Well, first there was the whole fourth of July event. Now, I like fireworks just as well as the next guy.....But my poor furballs were beside themselves for most of the entire weekend. It got so bad that taking them out to do their "business" became a battle of wills. Finally got through that and my son calls. He was going out of town the upcoming weekend and was hoping I could babysit the "grand dog". How could I say no to a face like this.......

Those big blue eyes get me everytime!

Since I was going to be there the entire weekend I decided I might as well get started on a little sewing project. I have two parson's chair that need to be reupholstered. Found some great fabric......

and set up my sewing station in my son's spare bedroom. Unfortunately, I didn't get a far as I would have liked. Mesha definitely had her own ideas as to how we would be spending the weekend.....LOL!

Here is a before and after shot.....I have yet to add a little skirt and the seat....

That is about as far as I got.....this past week has just been busy with housekeeping chores, running errands, and taking care of my own furballs. Sometimes "life" just gets you going in another direction and it is hard to put on the breaks and make that "u-turn". Today I made a promise to myself to get back to my easel. My giraffe painting is patiently waiting for my return. The chairs will have to wait......as I just feel the need to paint!

Giraffe Part 2

2011-07-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

You can click on the image to make it a bit bigger if you like. I'm done with the ear...at least for now. It is time to start pulling together more of the head and then I can see how things start to relate to one another in terms of color and value.

This is a close up view of the ear in the early stages....I thought you might like to see how I start to build up the values and the textures.

So, this is where I ended my day and I am very pleased with how this little guy is coming together! I am using a combination of Burnt Umber, White, Cream, Burnt Sienna, Grey, and a touch of Ultra Marine Blue on my palette.

Now, as promised here is a look at my brushes......

Starting at the top: LC (Loew Cornell) 1/2 inch shader, LC 7300 #2 flat, LC 7500 filbert #6, Robert Simmons T85 #3 round, LC 7050 Script #18/0. I use the filbert, flats and rounds for filling in areas with color. The script allows me to place individual hairs where needed. The brush that I use to block in large areas of fur is an old one. I rarely throw away a brush....and I don't even know if it is still available. It is an LC Mixtique #2 round, but it is not the brush so much as what I DO to the brush......

I squish it on my palette....spraying out the hairs then I drag is through my "wash" of paint to load it. To achieve my "wash" I simply add water to the paint until I reach the consistency and value I'm looking for..... Now these aren't all my brushes, but tend to be the ones I reach for the most. I have a whole drawer full to choose from and experiment with until I find one that gets me where I need to be! If you have any questions....post as a comment and I'll be glad to answer in the next post.

Giraffe Part 1

2011-06-29T07:35:00.000-07:00

Allrighty then.....here we go. Spent the day getting in a basic idea of a background and roughing in a few areas on the giraffe. The background will change as the giraffe come together and I'm thinking at this point I may add some more green. We shall see about that later.

I always like to start with the eyes, but sometimes it takes a little bit for my painting "mojo" to come together. So, I move around a bit.....until my eye starts to truly see. To see the individual shapes and textures...not the whole. Ended up that the ear captured my attention and I'm very happy with the way it is coming along.
I'm using Deco Art Traditions Acrylic. It is a fluid acrylic and since I tend to work in layers of washes of color the consistency works well for me. I always start with light values of color and gradually keep adding the layers until the I reach the saturation level I'm looking to develop.
Next time, I'll share some of my favorite brushes and how I used them to achieve texture. This is being done on a 12 x 16 gessoboard with 3/4 inch cradle. That simply means the edges of the board are 3/4 inch and may be painted.....eliminating the need for a frame giving the painting a more modern feel.

Giraffe On the Easel

2011-06-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Been back and forth a half dozen times trying to decide on my next project, but I keep coming back to this same image.....

This guy is just a baby (born March 10, 2010) and I fell in love with that innocent face. He is chewing on a piece of grass and was only mildly curious about the human with the camera. Below you will find my sketch......

This is where it all begins. I think the background will be set with modeled colors of greens, blues, and browns with all the focus being on that glorious giraffe! So stay tuned to this "blog channel" for wip photos as this little guy develops.

Truck/Hare Done!

2011-06-21T06:11:00.000-07:00

Another painting complete......

I finished up the "Old Truck and the Hare" painting yesterday. I just want to thank everyone over at the "Hive" for all your support. I don't think I would have finished if not for all your great comments and encouragement.

Along with the completion of this painting, I have also managed to get my "shopping cart" set up on the my web site. Folks can now securely purchase directly from my web site. This latest painting will be posted and available for purchase soon.

I also wanted to share some great news on the marketing front. I was asked to do an interview with Donna Hailson over at PetLife Radio for her show, "On the road with Mac and Molly". The interview will be conducted this afternoon, to be aired at a later date. As soon as I know the "air" date, I will pass it along to you. I so very excited about this opportunity!

Step by step....Truck/Hare

2011-06-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

Here is another look at my WIP of the truck and the hare. I made some design changes and decided it was getting a bit to busy in that lower right hand corner. That is the beauty of acrylics....don't like it.....paint it out and start again....and that is just what I did!

I also lightened up the ground area and went with a more "rocky" look. I still have work to do on the landscape....going to add some dried grasses around the rocks and the hare.

Now this guy has been a bit of a challenge....I'm not used to working so small! Thank goodness most of the body and legs will eventually be covered by some dried grasses. His or her backside will also be covered a bit by the shadow of the truck. I spent most of my time on the face....where I want the viewer to be focused. I kinda feel like that story of the tortoise and the hare....."slow and steady wins the race"......LOL!

One down, one to go

2011-06-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

Finishing my pelican painting has inspired me to complete my truck/hare painting. I know several of you have been asking about that one.....Mr Q....this one is for you....LOL!

I ended up only getting a couple of hours in on this yesterday. I spent my time working on the rocks in the upper left corner and the rocks in the lower right corner......guess I was "rocking" away my day...LOL! Anyway, my enthusiasm for this painting is back and I'm looking forward to finishing it up. I'll be spending most of my time in the foreground....rocks, grasses, and a few cacti. Then I'll turn my attention to the hare and the final touches on the truck. I'm still working on the "shopping cart" for my website. I appreciate all the comments and suggestions. I looked at all the options and have settled on one.....more on that at a later date! It is a glorious day and my paint brush is calling!

Pelican is Finished!

2011-06-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

I had such a satisfying day yesterday! I actually finished my Pelican painting....what a great feeling! To top it off, I'm pretty darn happy with the outcome. Have a look for yourself.....

Here is a close up of the beak area....I decided to add a few water droplets as this guy is "fresh" from the water. Have not done water droplets in awhile, but I think they work well.

Here is a close up of the head....this is my favorite part of the painting.....I love all the colors that come together here.

So there you have it.....now I just have to get the painting listed as "AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE" on my web site. Not as easy as it sounds as this will be the first painting I make available directly through my website. I will be setting up the whole "shopping cart" system. Wish me luck....I'll need it....LOL!

Feathers, feathers, feathers

2011-06-05T06:21:00.000-07:00

I know I stated that my next project would be the roadrunner....but.....I had a change of heart or should I say "brush"...LOL. As many of my regular followers know, I have been struggling with the Pelican's feathers. I just couldn't seem to 'get it right'. Yesterday, I had this 'urge' to place that pelican painting on my easel. I just looked at it for the longest time....evaluating....wondering if I should just plain trash it. But somewhere from within came this little voice, "One more time....just try, one more time". I said a little prayer, took a deep breath, and picked up my brush. It took a few minutes, but things finally starting coming together and making sense. I think I had been trying to paint each individual feather...and there are so many. This time I took a little less of a controlled approach.....painted in a more 'painterly fashion'. I forced myself to move more quickly and focus on the whole rather then the individual. I hope that makes some sense to you....here are the results.....

I'm very happy.....I wanted to capture some movement here.....that wind swept feeling of a bird that has just landed....feathers are rather askew

I'm not finished with the feathers, but I'm further a long and happier with the results then I have ever been with this painting. My confidence in myself has been restored....this guy will be finished and will be available for purchase on my web site very soon! That is a very GOODE thing....LOL!

My Easel is UP!!

2011-05-31T12:17:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a while. My life took a bit of a "dip" to say the least and some family issues had to be addressed. Things are finally starting to return to normal and I'm starting to feel like my old self again. Today I actually cleaned and organized my taboret and I actually did a little painting....sorry no photos yet....I need to get a little further along. It felt really good to be sitting in front of my easel again.
On a side note.....my son adopted a dog from a local shelter. Her name is Mesha and she is about a year old. Mesha is a Siberian Husky and a real sweetheart of a girl. You know that sweet face and those big blue eyes will definitely end up on my easel.....sooner or later!

As you can see, she is a bit on the thin side. She was found on the streets.

But she has quickly made herself at home here.....and that is exactly what we had hoped for......she is a real cuddlier too!

Roadrunners

2011-05-20T05:01:00.000-07:00

The past few days have been spent going through all my reference photos for my upcoming roadrunner painting. I'm a little frustrated, as I have yet to have a paint brush in my hand. I think I have finally chosen the "pose".

I just like the "turned head" and that little bit of blue behind the eye. I have other photos to help with the "missing feet" and the end of the tail. Now, I just have to figure out the background. My grandson's birthday party is this Saturday.....so I doubt I get back to my "easel" till Monday. Hopefully, I will have a brush back in my hand by Monday as well!

Getting "back on track"!

2011-05-17T05:21:00.000-07:00

Ok, today is the day. I'm getting back to my easel. I have decided to start a new painting.....even though I have a couple of paintings that need to be finished up. I just feel I need to start something new and fresh to get those creative juices flowing once again. My subject will be a roadrunner. I have had several requests for one of these and it should be a fun and easy project to get me back in the "swing" of things. I did manage to get my website updated as well and a rough draft of my first newsletter. The chains of procrastination have been broken.....at least for now.....I'm up and moving and "back on track"!

Procrastination or Overwhelmed....maybe a little of both

2011-05-12T04:54:00.000-07:00

Things have been so hectic....it seems everyday is a "do something day" and that "something" does not include my easel. Part of that is me......yes, procrastination has once again reared its ugly head in my life. Even though I have a strong desire to get the easel out and paint, I manage to come up with several "good" excuses everyday as to why that is NOT a good idea. Well, some of my "excuses" are good if I would just act on them. I really do need to go through all the cabinets and closets here in our fifth wheel. Space is always at a premium here and you just can't hold onto things you might "someday" have a use for.....time for a good purging and cleaning. I'm also feeling that urge to "re-decorate" the living room. I'm absolutely in love with Robin's Egg Blue and want to incorporate it into our living room decor. That is going to mean new window treatments.....I've been keeping an eye out for that "inspiration fabric", but have not found it yet...I'm toying with the idea of "painting" my own inspiration fabric. Then there is my web site....which needs updating, my newsletter....which needs to be written, and marketing, marketing, marketing....eeeeekkkkkkk! Maybe it is not so much procrastination as it is that feeling of being overwhelmed. Which ever, I have got to get "back on track". I think I will start with a "to do" list.....prioritize it.....and break it down into small steps. That usually sets the small wheels of my brain in motion and amazingly enough my legs and arms will eventually follow! LOL!

Back in Lafayette

2011-05-05T03:16:00.000-07:00

We made it back to Lafayette. It will take me a few days to get settled and make all the rounds with family and friends. Once things settle down.....I will be back at my easel. I'm getting all "itchy" to get that paint brush back in my hand.

Colorado Springs

2011-04-30T06:25:00.000-07:00

We made it to Colorado Springs and decided to spend two nights here at the Mountaindale Cabins and Rv Resort. Really nice campground and we had a wonderful spot.

We had some pretty cool neighbors too! Meet Mac and Molly.........

They have their very own radio show on Pet Life Radio. It is called, "On the Road with Mac and Molly", check it out if you have the time. Of course, their owner Donna does do most of the talking....LOL! There is even a possibility that Mac and Molly may do an interview with me sometime in the near future.....wouldn't that be a hoot!
Guess that is all for now, today is another travel day. We will be starting our journey across Kansas.

Tomorrow Travel Day

2011-04-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

We managed to survive the 60+ winds of yesterday and awoke to a chilly 32 degrees this am. I have to say our trip to Santa Fe has not been a pleasant one weather wise. To top it off, I have come down with a nasty cold. I have been healthy all winter and now it really irritates me that I'm sick. We are going to try and do a little sight seeing today...our last day here. Tomorrow we will head out to Colorado Springs and I have to say I'm ready to put Santa Fe in my rear view mirror.

Awe Inspiring....

2011-04-24T18:01:00.000-07:00

Wow! The last week has just flown by....the Grand Canyon was awe inspiring and then we moved on to the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert.....just take a look.....

The Grand Canyon

The Painted Desert

I did manage to find a few critters......

Unfortunately, I had my wide angle lens on here so I couldn't get as "zoomed" in as I would have liked.....

Love all the colors in this little guy

Pretty little birdie perched on a piece of petrified wood.....how cool is that!

Now, we are located in Santa Fe New Mexico. We are staying at the rodeo fairgrounds....yes, the rodeo. When the rodeo is not going they allow folks like us to come in for a mere $20 a night with full hookups.....that is way cheap for Santa Fe! I have horses and cows right next door! This has all been great fun, but I do miss having a paint brush in my hand!

Viva Vegas

2011-04-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

The last few days have been crazy......but so much fun. You can check out my travel blog for more info and photos..... The GoodeLife .... Here is a sneak peak at some of the "Vegas Action"

This is my kinda action.....watching the flamingos at the "Flamingo" Casino.....LOL!

Tonight we are in Williams Arizona and we are going to the Grand Canyon tomorrow...can't wait!!

Packing up the Paint Brushes

2011-04-15T06:59:00.000-07:00

I'll be packing up my paint brushes for awhile. As I mentioned yesterday, we will be heading to Las Vegas tomorrow. Hopefully, I will have some good photos to share with you. Today will be spent readying the fifth wheel for travel. We have been here in California for about a month....the longer you stay in one place it seems, the more you "spread out". That translate into re-packing and arranging things for travel. I always go through all the cabinets making sure everything is secure....believe it or not adding a roll of toilet paper here and there for filler keeps things in their place as we go down the road.
After Vegas we think we might head over into Colorado....neither of us have been there before and Sante Fe New Mexico is also on our travel agenda. The gypsy in me can't wait to see what's "around the next bend" or "over the next mountain top"!! The Adventure Awaits....

Future Paintings

2011-04-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

I made another trip to the zoo and I now have over a 1000 photos....great reference material. There is so many to choose from that I am having a difficult time making a choice...LOL! I think I have narrowed it down to these 3 subjects....

This guy has been running around in the wash area behind our fifth wheel. They just fascinate me and I think she is a little curious about me too!

I have a ton of photos of this little girl....she is very photogenic. My thoughts are to do several different "head shot" poses. Not sure if they will be on separate canvases or combined on one large one.

Oh yeah, he is NOT a morning person. Every time I went by this guy's enclosure he was sleeping in his den. I had pretty much written him off...and then "bang!" there he was. It was early morning and I don't think he is too happy to see me, but I got some great pics.
This Saturday we are "hitching up" and heading to Las Vegas for 3 nights. After Vegas we will be making our way to Santa Fe, NM and spend a few days there. I love this lifestyle!
My pelican painting and the old truck are still on my easel.....close to being finished....I'll post once they are done.

Zoo Day

2011-04-08T06:36:00.000-07:00

I went to the Zoo on Wednesday and OH, what a day I had there. Billy dropped me off around 9am. I was loaded....had both my lenses, my camera, my monopod, my umbrella, and water and a snack. It was an overcast day, which made it nice temp wise. It did sprinkle a couple of times, but I had my trusty umbrella so I was good. I really took my time and got some great shots....around 500 photos. By the time I left I was really tired....I think it was around 3pm when I decided to call it a day. I certainly can't post all 500 photos, but here are a few of my favorites.

I was actually shooting the flowers when this little guy magically appeared in my view finder.....how cool is that!!

Bobcat

Jaguar

Cheetah

Look at all those teeth!

It was around 3pm when I went back home and there was not a part of my body that didn't kinda of ache. Just not used to all that walking....especially with a backpack. It was so worth it though and I do plan to go back. So much to learn about the camera.....keep in mind that all these shots, with the exception of the hummer, were taken either through glass or a cage.

New Camera Lens

2011-04-05T20:13:00.000-07:00

Well, so much for Utube and so much for the pelican. Oh, I'll be back to them in a few days, but I purchased a new telephoto lens for my camera and I just had to play! Look what I found fluttering around the pond.

Aren't they beautiful! I need lots more practice getting these kind of shots, but I'm just thrilled with how well these came out even with my limited photography skills. Weather permitting, I'm off to the zoo tomorrow!

Pelican

2011-03-30T17:53:00.000-07:00

I spent some time working on the palm leaves and now have moved down to those feathers. I have spent quite a lot of time on them. Just couldn't seem to get things moving in the right direction. Here is a photo of the "photo" of the feathers I'm trying to reproduce in the painting.

It's those soft, gray feathers that I'm stumbling on....they are so subtle and soft...barely there.

I finally think I have a handle on it...just getting started, laying in some values and then I'll start "picking out" individual feathers to add some shape and depth.
I order and received a tripod for my camera....so I am going to start experimenting with shooting some video while at my easel. If all goes well, I may have something up on Utube in the next few days....fingers crossed!!

Pelican Continues

2011-03-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

I took a few days off. I have found that after I sit at my easel for several days.....I need a break. A time to re-charge and sometimes re-group. During that time, I place my wips (works in progress) where I can see them. It is amazing how much that helps me the next time I'm at the easel. I see what is right and what is wrong. A color that needs to be deepened or a shape that is a bit skewed. I take mental notes....and then when I'm back at the easel I make the necessary changes. In this case, the pelican's beak had gotten a bit to thick. I made corrections to the beak and spent some time on the background as well.

Backgrounds...probably my least favorite thing to paint. I just don't have much patience when it comes to "fiddling" with the background. Yet, I know it is important and it must compliment the subject not distract from it.

Here is a little closer look at the head. Now, here is where I like to spend my time and I love the way this guy is coming to life!

Pelican and the Old Truck

2011-03-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

Spent the day at my easel yesterday. Did a little work on both the paintings. It probably doesn't look like I made a lot of progress on either one, but I work slowly. I have always been that way....I take a lot of time with each little section. I play with value, color, and texture until I feel what is happening at the end of my brush agrees with what I see in my mind's eye.

I'm focusing on the head area here on the pelican...slowly building up the color and texture. I tend to work in 2 hour blocks and then it is time to stretch...to walk the furballs, or to dance.....yes, I like to "be bop" around the fiver. It re-energizes me and clears the mind. I know hubby sometimes thinks I'm a little nuts, but he is used to it and pretty much ignores me now...LOL!

And here is the Old Truck....more rocks and touches of green and some scrub brush coming to life. I have decided to make this a spring time scene. You can click on both photos for a larger view.

Pelican Painting

2011-03-22T06:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I spent most of the day working on my pelican painting. Here is reference photo I am working from.....

A fellow rv blogger had this photo on his blog and was kind enough to allow me to use it. You can read all about Keith's travels here.
Below you will see my progress on the painting....

Just getting some color and value laid in....but I'm already liking the way this is coming together! This is acrylic on a 24 by 12 inch gessoboard. I started this by laying in the blue sky. Once that was dry I sketched in the palm tree leaves and then undercoated them with white. I undercoat in white because I work in transparent layers and I didn't want the blue background to skew my transparent washes on the leaves.

Back to my Easel

2011-03-21T07:23:00.000-07:00

As promised, I finally returned to my painting of the old truck. Inspiration for the background, finally "popped" into my wee brain! We were on our way to see the burros in Oatmen, when I spied a fabulous rock formation. Hubby pulled over so I could get out and take some photos. So glad I did, because I think they are just perfect as a back drop to the truck.

The rich dark tones of the rocks will make that old truck "pop" and I'm pretty happy with the composition at this point. I also like how the colors of the truck are repeated in the rock formations. So far....it all works!

Rylie...delivered, roadrunner, and a rescue!

2011-03-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

You'll have to forgive my lack of posting the last few days. It seems it always takes me awhile to get "settled in" and back to my easel. I love the site we are located in....there is a big "wash" area out our back. Look who I found running around back there....just waiting to say "hello"!

I have been wanting to paint one of these guys....so hopefully I can get some more photos of this guy while we are here.
It has been busy here.....meeting and chatting with fellow rv bloggers Rick and Paulette , they are the proud owners of Rylie and loved the painting I did. I even managed to rescue a stray and find it a new home. You can check all that out on my travel blog.
I do plan on getting to the easel today and posting some WIP's soon. I did a little sketching on the old truck and I think I am finally happy with the background. Plan on putting in some washes of color today and see how it stands up!

Travel Day

2011-03-17T05:58:00.000-07:00

Today we are heading over to California for a months stay in a beautiful rv park located in Desert Hot Springs...."The Sands". One thing we are planning on is going to the Zoo.....taking my new camera, of course, and hoping to get some great reference photos! I'll be working on the "old truck" painting and I have started a new painting of a Pelican. Stay tuned for WIPs......on both. This gypsy girl is "on the road again" WaHOOOO!

Sadie almost done!

2011-03-14T06:12:00.000-07:00

It has been hot here....but I'm not complaining! It does make my paint dry up rather quickly though. Sadie was back on my easel today and I have just about finished her.

I just have to clean up the background a bit and she is ready to go a cruise-in down the road! This portrait was a challenge, so much going on with all the collars and those "doggles"...gotta love those things. I really enjoyed painting Sadie and I am very please with how she turned out. You can read all about Miss Sadie on her blog.

Rylie is Done!

2011-03-11T07:06:00.000-08:00

I finally got back to my easel and finished up my portrait of Rylie. I am still working on Sadie.

I still can't get over that sweet face and those gorgeous eyes.....so intense! Can't wait to meet Rylie in person! We will be leaving Bullhead City next week and heading over to a California rv park where Rylie and her owners are currently parked.
I have also been spending time on my web site....it isn't quite finished, but it has a new look and some new features. One of which is a newsletter that folks can sign up for....I used mailchimp. My newsletter will be "published" 4 times a year. That leads me to a question: What would you find interesting in a newsletter? I plan to have my latest paintings and projects, but I'm also thinking about adding a "tips and techniques" area about my painting style. What do ya think!

Back to Sweet Rylie

2011-03-02T09:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went back to work on Rylie. I got kinda a late start, but I think I made a fair amount of progress. I spent a little time tweaking the nose and muzzle area and then moved out into all those lovely curls. Those curls are what drew me in to paint Rylie in the first place....the way they frame that sweet face and those soulful eyes....the curls are the "icing on the cake"!

I do declare.....Rylie is the "poster child" for sweetness!

Sadie 5

2011-02-28T10:12:00.000-08:00

I should have switched over to Rylie, but I'm so close on finishing Sadie that I ended up spending the day on her. I just couldn't resist getting those "doggles" under control....and I'm very happy with the way they are looking. I have a little work to do on the shadow area under the doggles on the right hand side, but other then that I'm pretty happy with the outcome.

Now, I'm focusing on everything below the harness area. You would think that seeing the way the hair grows is an easy thing, but Sadie's hair is so smooth and close to the body that it has been a real challenge. The area to the left, above her paw has been difficult. It took more than a few "passes" to "get it right". I finally made the decision that the hair kinda wraps around her forward shoulder area and then makes a downward turn to the legs. Sometimes you have to take what you know with what you see and make the best compromise between the two. That's what I did and I think it is working. Today I'm off to the laundry and grocery shopping......till next time....have a great day!

Sadie 3 and New Camera

2011-02-25T05:06:00.000-08:00

I know I have been "missing in action" these past few days, but sometimes I just need a little break from the computer. I also have been learning to use and enjoying my new camera. It finally arrived a few days ago. The first company we had ordered from turned out to be less then reputable and we ended up canceling the order. Ordered from Amazon....which is what we should have done in the first place.

Isn't it pretty!! Oh my, you should see all the buttons and dials! Thankfully, it has an auto setting which allows you to "shoot" right outta the box. I do want to move beyond that.....but it will takes some time to get familiar with everything.
I did get a little painting in the other day......

I have not done anymore on the "doggles"....I want to finish her head first so I can see how everything "works" together. I am fairly satisfied with the muzzle area....I just have a little spot behind her mouth to finish up. I just can't seem to quite make that area work...got frustrated with it yesterday! Today is a new day though and after sleeping on it I think I'm seeing it a little clearer this morning.....

Rylie and all those curls!

2011-02-20T07:15:00.000-08:00

While it rained and thundered and hailed.....yes, hailed.....I was working away on sweet Rylie and all those lovely curls......

She is coming along nicely I think! I had such fun swirling around in that "mop" that sits atop that sweet little face and of course it will eventually cascade down on either side. I spent some time on the nose and muzzle area....blocking in some color. Animal noses can be tricky....getting that texture and the play between dark and light. Rylie's nose is a little different in that due to the angle the photo was taken, there is a bright reflection on the bottom side of each nostril opening....not something you usually see....but that is just another chance to learn and grow as an artist.

Back to Sadie

2011-02-19T05:03:00.000-08:00

I spent most of yesterday working on Sadie. I have been a little apprehensive about tackling those "doggles". I have not painted a lot of transparent....reflective surfaces. To me that is one of the more difficult things to render.......

To the left is the reference photo of the glasses. Below is the painting. I have not done anything but slap a little color on the frames...just so I would not loose them completely. I needed to be able to freely apply layer upon layer of washes to build up the darkness of the glasses. I am pretty happy with the results.

I need to lighten a couple of highlight areas and maybe do a little more tweaking, but I will wait till more of the portrait is finished to see how things start to relate to one another. While I was waiting for each layer of "doggles" to dry I did some work in the neck area and the collar. Then I bounced up to get the nose and muzzle area underway. Today I'll let Sadie rest a bit and focus on Rylie.

Calibration Software Anyone?

2011-02-18T07:11:00.000-08:00

I know you are all expecting to see more progress on the doggie portraits.....but....not quite yet. We have had some pretty nice weather days and both my hubby and myself have taken advantage of them. Had some errands to run....you know, grocery and stuff. Then I decided it was time to rid my little home on wheels of all the dust bunnies! Billy (hubby) was kind enough to wash all the outside windows.....so sparkly and clean! I decided to comb out and trim nails on the furball front. Finally, got back to my painting table. But, not to paint. Many of you know I am interested in selling prints of my work. I have a new epson 1400 printer and just purchased calibration software/hardware. Thought some of you might be interested in what I have done.

This is what I used. It is a very simple program and I just love it. It is so much easier to tweak my colors in photoshop now and get awesome prints from my paintings. Prints that are very close to the original. Here is how it works.....after loading the software....you plug in the hardware and then hang it over your screen. It even has a diagram that comes up and shows you exactly where to place it.

Here you see mine....the thing is counter weighted so it hangs with ease. Once it is in place the software takes over and does everything. When it is finished it actually brings up a page with photos where you can (with the click of your mouse) see before and after results of the calibration. I love it!!

One more purchase....this was made by my darling hubby. He had a project where he needed a soldering iron. I have some jewelry designs in my head which require soldering...soooo...I managed to convince hubby to buy a little better soldering iron so I could use it too! Aren't I the clever girl....LOL! This is what we settled on.....

It is a Weller 100......kinda a "middle of the road" unit.

Now, it is back to my painting table and Rylie and Sadie. Next time I'll have photos of my progress.....promise!

Rylie's Day

2011-02-14T10:56:00.000-08:00

I spent yesterday on Rylie's portrait. I just love all those curls that frame out that sweet face. Those great big "Betty Davis Eyes" are to die for! LOL!

Nothing here has been completely developed. At this point, I'm just looking to find the appropriate values and shapes of dark, light, and the mid tones. Rylie's hair is a combination of smooth and coarse. At least that is what I perceive from the photo. I have never seen either Sadie or Rylie in person. Once I am satisfied with the placement of the values and shapes, I'll go back and start adding the coarser individual hairs. Yeah, I paint those one by one.....a labor of love!
I have enjoyed all of your comments and one I hear a lot is....."how do you do that?" I'm never sure how to answer that.....I know it is a "gift" from God and one that I cherish every day. I know that I see the world a little different.....for me it's all about shapes and value. I know I see color in terms of my palette.....The sky is not just blue....it's ultra marine blue with a bit of titanium white. That bit of rust is burnt sienna with a touch of burnt umber. As my husband can attest, I find beauty in the strangest things and will practically stand on my head to get that "perfect" reference shot with my camera. It's just who I am....and I'm thankful for that every day.

Sadie part 2

2011-02-13T07:16:00.000-08:00

I spent the day yesterday working on Sadie. It took me a while to get the "hang" of her fur. It is so soft and smooth and when you are putting in shadows and highlights you have to be careful to maintain that smooth texture. That is one of the reasons why I like working on gesso board as a surface. It offers a smoother texture than traditional canvas. Many times I found myself fighting with the texture of canvas....painting on the gesso board is so much easier.

I'm pretty happy with the ears and forehead area. As the painting progress, I usually go back and do some tweaking here and there. Now, the ear on the right has a coat of glazing medium over it so it looks a little more intense then the rest of the painting at the moment. I use the glazing medium to not only protect the layers of washes, but it also allows me to see what the painting will look like after I apply the final varnish. I can still go back into an area that has been glazed if I need to make any adjustments.

Here is a close up of the other ear. Ears can be a challenge because....well....they can do so many "funky" and "wonky" things with those babies. They are usually in heavy shadow which can also make things difficult. Once again, I try to just paint what I see. I know it looks a little strange when you focus on just the ear, but when you step back and look at the whole painting it somehow makes sense. Now for those "doggles"!

Progress on my paintings.....

2011-02-10T19:08:00.000-08:00

Here you see, Sadie. Part of my reference photo is sticking up from behind the painting. As you can see, I have been working on ears. The one on the right is pretty much done. The one on the left, I'm just getting started on it. Laying in the washes of color and then I will gradually build them up adding depth and texture with each new layer.
Sadie's hair is like velvet. Soft and smooth. You can click on the photo for a larger view.

Here's Rylie! The complete opposite of Sadie.....at least as far as the hair is concerned anyway. She has huge expressive eyes.....the kind you can get lost in. Her fur is full of motion.....curls and swirls. She just has the sweetest face and I think she loves the camera!
You can click on the image for a closer look.
I'm really enjoying working on these two and next time I'll post some close up sections so you can get a better idea of the detail. I love doing the details!

Two New Projects......

2011-02-09T07:24:00.000-08:00

I know....been awhile since my last post. The old truck painting I have been working on has just NOT been calling my name. I'm happy with the truck, but hate the background.....so I'm shelving it for awhile until inspiration hits. I spent the day yesterday working on two sketches for my next paintings. The photos come from their owners and they graciously gave me permission to use them as reference. So, without further ado........

This is Rylie.....owned by Rick and Paulette. What can I say, I'm just totally in love with that sweet face and all that curly hair. You can see her sketch below.

Say "hello" to Sadie owned by Donna and Stu. What a personality she has.....one hot motorcycle rid-in mama! I would have liked to have put the motorcycle in the painting, but it would have had to have been a huge painting in order to get Sadie the size I wanted her.

Here is my sketch and Sadie also has her own blog.....Sadie Speaks.

Stay tuned as I'll post my efforts on these paintings in the blogs to come! Also, I am finally getting the hang of my new printer. I will be making prints available for purchase in the not so very distant future!

Never to old to learn? I hope!

2011-01-31T05:31:00.000-08:00

The past couple of days have been spent in front of my computer. I would much rather be painting, but as you all know...the buck can’t stop there...not if you want to market yourself and your art. In Kelly Rae’s e-book, she talks about that giant learning curve. Trying to build a website, social networking, blogging, and all the while creating her art. It is overwhelming and sometimes bewildering the amount of information one must assimilate to “have a presence” on the world wide web! I have always used iweb to build my site, but I want more than it can offer now. I’m in the process of learning a new software program called Freeway Pro. Lots of neat stuff there, but my brain is on overload. I also know I will use paypal for my e-commerce. Reading how to integrate that into Freeway....well, it’s not rocket science, but it is fairly involved for someone like me. Someone like me...who knows just enough to really get herself in trouble. On top of the new software, I have been trying to make prints on my new printer. I learned how to calibrate my computer screen and I’m learning all about color profiles and such. One that front, I think I am making progress. I will more than likely end up purchasing calibration hardware to help me along the way.....oh, goody another manual to read! Let’s not forget photoshop elements.....I know my way around there fairly well, but now I want to create some graphics to put in my new website so once again I’m reading and watching tutorials......thank goodness for the web......REALLY....did I just say that! I’m not sleeping well these days, my poor little brain is doing it’s best to catalog and process all this new information and I think it may be running out of storage room very soon. I’m taking a break from all this today....a trip to the laundry mat is in order, so glad I already know how those machines work. Tomorrow......I paint.

Old Truck part 5

2011-01-26T13:55:00.000-08:00

OK, I finally got back to my painting of the old truck. As you can see from the photo I did some more work on both fenders and also the front grill has been blocked in. The grill work is definitely a pain. I need to get that curve and the lines really all need to be without wobble or change in thickness. NOT AN EASY TASK!!

The grill is close, but I still have a few corrections to make. I'm not, repeat not going to make myself nuts about this though. After all it is an old rusty truck.....things would be expected to sag a little just like me and my aging body. LOL!
For those of you that may be interested....when I get my new camera I plan on experimenting with shooting some video. If it works out, I may invest in a micro phone and try posting some works in progress on you-tube.

Finish painting..baby lion

2011-01-23T10:46:00.000-08:00

And....here it is. This little guy is sleeping soundly now....with his blankey in tow. I love how this painting turned out. I struggled along the way, but the process was rich with opportunities to learn new skills and refine old ones. I truly feel I have achieved a new level of skill with the completion of this painting. The painting was done from a reference photo taken by a cousin of mine. She recently had a beautiful baby boy and I'm gifting this to her for the nursery. The painting measures 8 inches by 8 inches and was painted on a 3/4 inch cradle style gessoboard in acrylics.

Letting frustration get the better of me.....

2011-01-22T05:49:00.000-08:00

It seems the last few days have been filled with activity.....not much time to blog or social network or anything. We had some great sunny warm days and those were spent out enjoying the company of my rv friends here at the park where we are wintering. Soon though, my paint brushes were calling me back. The last two days.....I have been consumed with my painting of the baby lion. Things were going so well until I started working on one little section of the blanket he is holding. I'm ashamed to say I let my frustration and anger (at myself) get the better of me that day. Nothing seemed to work and I was cross with myself and my poor hubby. Finally, my two fox terriers decided I needed a break from my painting table and insisted on taking me for a walk. It was a short walk, but it did the trick. Walking out on the beach, next to the Colorado river....the mountains....the big blue sky....and seeing my two furballs at play.....the tension of my day finally started to drain away. In fact, walking on the beach I couldn't believe how much I hurt! My neck and my shoulders were in knots and screaming at me....small wonder I was having trouble doing anything. When I came back inside, my sweet husband was fixing us tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches.....Just what I needed....comfort food! After dinner, I made one last attempt at that little patch of fabric and "bingo" it starting coming together. The painting is almost complete and "if I do say so myself" it is looking pretty darn good! It it so close that I will finish it today.....look for some photos in the next post.
Speaking of photos......my husband and I have been looking to replace my camera. He did all the research and gave me a list of what he thought I should have...(yes, I am completely spoiled rotten)....yesterday, we found a really good price online and we ordered the camera and one lens. It is a cannon 2ti 550 and the lens is a wide angle telephoto....I'll share all the details once it arrives.

OH, What a night!

2011-01-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

I posted this on my travel blog......then I decided it "bares" repeating and I am posting here in my art blog as well. Hope it gives you a nice chuckle!

We did have quite a night a few days ago. I keep a small lamp next to our bed...on one of those little shelves. I put the lamp over on the sink vanity at night so I don't accidentally bump it in the night. Well, Billy needed to retrieve some tums from our medicine cabinet somewhere around 1:30am. He was trying to be careful and quiet....said the first thing he grabbed was the talcum powder. When he reached back in for the tums.....there went the lamp.....crashing to the floor with a very loud "bang". Boy was I ever up and so were the dogs. Of course the bulb broke, there were fine bits of glass everywhere. Poor Billy is standing there in his b-day suit ( he sleeps in his b-day suit) looking a little bewildered. I told him to flip on the overhead light and then I went and got the sweeper. Once all the glass was vacuumed up, the furballs wanted to go out. I put on my clothes and took them out.......came back in.....and there is Billy on his hands and knees on the bedroom floor. I'm like....now what? It seems he dropped the tums bottle and now there were tums all over the floor. LOL! What a sight that was. Finally....around 3am we all crawled back into bed....What a night and I'm still finding the occasional tum tablet....LOL!

My Painting Process

2011-01-14T09:27:00.000-08:00

I am often asked how and where I find my inspiration to paint. My passion comes from animals and their environment. I don’t just limit myself to nature; however, anything with interesting shapes and textures can get me a-going. I’m one of those that stops and stares at the strangest things...the bark on a tree, a pile of brush, an old piece of weathered fence can really get my attention. Especially if the sunlight is playing “hide and seek” with all it’s nooks and crannies. Hopefully, I have my camera, as I can’t rely on my wee brain to remember all those exquisite details. I paint from reference photos and I do try to take my own whenever I can. Sometimes I combine one or more photos into one composition. I like to use photoshop elements at this point. It is a lot easier to play with the composition at the click of a button, then at the point of a pencil. Once I’m satisfied with the basic composition I move on to the sketch. First thing I do is to break it down into simple shapes. You know the ones... we all learned about in grade school....circles, squares, rectangles but don’t forget about cylinders, cones, and cubes as they add dimension. Next, I start looking at what is inside each of those shapes. What textures do I see, what color and value. Now. what position does it hold....in other words....is it closer to me or does it seem further away. Finally...I look at how it relates to the other shapes around it. Does it fit neatly into that little niche there or does it overlap the shape beside it. Once the sketch is done I transfer it to my gesso board. At this point, I’m ready to start putting together my painting palette....I look back to the reference photo and begin picking out the colors I see. I don’t think in terms of just “red” or “brown”. I like to be more specific then that....as in a rich brown becomes Burnt Umber and that touch of rust I see reminds me of Burnt Sienna. I’m finally ready to paint. The reference photo and sketch are my constant companions. I paint all those shapes.....textures, values. Each and every painting is an experiment. I’m always looking for new techniques...new ways of bringing my painting to life....so that you see what I see....the beauty and wonder of the world around us..... captured in that one small moment in time......

Baby Lion Part 2

2011-01-12T09:15:00.000-08:00

I have been working on my baby lion painting. As you can see, I decided against the green grass background. Just didn't give this guy enough "POP". So, at least for now, I'm sticking with the burnt umber version. I'll reevaluate the background again at the end. The lion's face has been a challenge and I'm still not sure if I have it the way I want it, but I needed to move on. I need to see how the rest of the painting plays out and that will help to put troubled spots into perspective. I always paint from a reference photo....I paint what I see, those shapes and values. Sometimes though....you find that you need to make adjustments to make the painting work. I also like to add more color then what I normally see....that is the fun part making the image your own. I plan on adding some more blues and maybe even a touch of pink among the washes in the fur. This is going into a nursery....so why not!

I'm focusing on the shoulder area at present. It is not working...I need to "re-claim" it as it were.... I spent way to much time with the painting about 10 inches from my face and that is what happens. I needed, I should have forced myself to step back more often and then I would have seen this happening. The shoulder has become rather flat and dirty and I have carried the curve of the shadow to far. Good news is.....It's only paint....an easy fix! I do love the way the paw and the spots are happening....a little more refinement and they will be puuurrrrrfect! LOL!

ME....JUST FOR ME

2011-01-10T07:41:00.000-08:00

Two very special things I did just for ME in this new year. The first, I took advantaged of a great sale price and purchased Kelly Rae Roberts e-book, "The Whole Shabang". I was so excited waiting for my computer to finish the download... so I could finally know all the secrets to her success. It is an amazing read and the fact that all the "links" to all her treasured finds and inspirations are live....well, that is the "icing on the cake"! I had talked myself out of that purchase...so very many times. BUT....a little nagging whisper...just kept calling me back. So glad I finally listened. One thing I also learned....as you travel through your creative path....WRITE IT DOWN and keep take of all those people and places that helped you along your way. Not only so that you can "re-visited" all those "ah ha" moments in your life, but also so that you can share those important discoveries with others.
The second.....I bought two instructional DVDs by David Kitler. He is an outstanding wildlife artist. I have been painting a long time and have purchase numerous how to books and videos along the way. I finally got to the point where I stopped buying.....it all just starting running together. The same techniques, the same theories....I just need to practice....just keep painting....I would improve with time. I did, but I also still struggled...I just felt I was missing something. Then I found David Kitler's web site and I was so inspired by his paintings that I decided I would purchase his DVDs. Soooo happy I did. I have learned so much.....it not only reinforced many of the techniques I was using, but also went on to give me new tools and techniques. I hope someday I and fortunate enough to met David Kitler....he has a passion about the animals he paints and you can see that "passion" in each and every painting he brings to life.
I feel as though a breath of fresh, clean air has just blown through my entire being......"I can see clearly now the rain is gone".......been humming that all day!

The Old Truck part 4

2011-01-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

Here is where I am at on the truck painting.....little by little, bit by bit it is starting to come to life.

I have been working on the grill. Difficult area....so easy to get things out of whack. Thank goodness....it is an old rusty truck....so if things aren't quite right I can blame the deterioration rather than me...LOL! Still the grill is in remarkably good shape and it is one of my favorite areas of the painting. I also have been "noodling" around in the background. I didn't care for the "actual" setting in my reference photo.....just to bland and white. So I have been lightly playing around with mountains and cacti.
If you have never taken photos of your "works in progress" I encourage you to do so. I find it really helps me gain a whole new perspective on my painting. Sometimes...you are just so close to your work, you can easily miss the obvious. For example, in the close up photo below I have circle an area I had overlooked until I took this latest WIP photo.

Do you see the line of the fender there....the angle is too steep. It needs to follow the same line as the other fender. I'll be correcting that today.

Facing Fear

2011-01-06T18:28:00.000-08:00

I was just reading my new e-book, “The Whole Shabang” by Kelly Rae Roberts, in it she talks about facing your fear. It really stuck a cord for me. My biggest fear is not being “good enough”. It is also my biggest excuse for not following my creative path....not listening to those ‘whispers of my heart’. I would convince myself that I was simply not good enough to pursue an art career. After all, on any given day, I could go to the internet and find at least 10 artist who were better....better artist, better at marketing, better at blogging....the list went on and on. Than one day not so long ago.....I simply said, “So What” and maybe, just maybe they are not actually any better....just different. “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder”...what appeals to one may not appeal to the other. If I don’t try, if I don’t put myself out there.....then how will I ever know if I’m good enough? I made the decision that I had to stop worrying about being “good enough” and just paint. Just pick up that brush and paint.....paint.....paint....paint. Amazingly enough...it seems the more I paint.....the better Artist I become....duh! So it follows, the more I blog, the more I market, the more I ........you get the idea. I’m growing as an Artist, as a person.....I’m experimenting, learning, and reaching out to others. I found this quote a long time ago, but never really took it to heart. But now....it has new meaning and I have it posted where I can see it everyday.....it simply states.....

“There is only one you for all time. Fearlessly be yourself.”

~~ Anonymous

Lion Cub

2011-01-04T05:44:00.000-08:00

As I had mentioned last post....I had decided to start another painting. Trying something new...trying to be more productive. I find I need to take a break from my paintings....even if it is only for fifteen minutes. It gives me new perspective.....seeing it with "fresh" eyes. Unfortunately that cuts down on productivity. I don't want to sacrifice quality for productivity by forcing myself to continue to work on a painting.....when I'm starting to feel restless or bored. So, I'm going to simply switch to another painting. We'll see how this works out.
This "new" painting is of a sleeping lion cub, snuggling up with a blanket. It is a long overdue gift for a cousin of mine that had a little boy last October. I promised I would do something for the nursery, but I just could not seemed to get "inspired". Finally, I got the bright idea to look through some of her facebook photos of the nursery. Quite by accident, I stumbled across some of her vacation photos and found this cute little guy. He is perfect. What could be better than a cute little baby animal, snuggling with a blue blanket....and it will remind her of a great vacation as well. Here is a photo of the very early stages...starting to block in some shadows and highlights.

Too cute......don't ya think!

The Old Truck part 3

2010-12-31T09:20:00.000-08:00

Here is another view of my work in progress. As you can see, I blocked in an area of the sky. Some how I just needed to find the horizon line and gain a little perspective on the painting.

Here is a little closer look at the truck. This painting is taking a considerable amount of time and has a long way to go. Although I am enjoying that process, I do seem to get a little fidgety at times. I decided the solution was to start another painting.....and that way I can work between the two. When one gets a little tedious I can switch to the other. That will be something new for me...usually I stay with one painting til completion. I just don't want to find myself taking short cuts just to "get it done". Til next time I'm wishing......

Happy New Year everyone!

Back to the Old Truck

2010-12-28T09:33:00.000-08:00

You may or may not remember, I started working on a painting with an old truck and jack rabbit....nice desert scene.

This is being done on an 11 by 14 Gessoboard with Acrylics. I have to admit it has been awhile since I have painted anything but animals. The truck is providing some new challenges with it's rusty and fading paint and the broken glass.....but I love it. It is great fun experimenting with what works and doesn't work, plus the texture requires a much looser style of painting then what I usually do. There is also a multitude of straight lines and peculiar angles that must be held true...where as animals mainly contain soft curves and flowing lines. Thank goodness for Deco Art Traditions acrylic paint....they are very forgiving as you can take a little water and a scrubby brush and lift off what you don't like...most of the time. I have had to do that a few times, but I have also had several "happy accidents" during the painting process. Those make me smile!

Deer in the Headlights....not quite...

2010-12-26T11:05:00.000-08:00

I have been working on a painting of this sweet little deer. I'm doing it on Strathmore Canvas card.....5" x 7" with acrylics. The pose has been a bit of a challenge as has direction of the hair growth. It seems I always struggle with which way the hair grows....I always use a reference photo, but sometimes it is still hard to figure out. There are a lot of different "planes" in the bone structure of an animal and the hair can grow many different directions. If you don't get it right.....it can throw off the whole thing. It do think I'm fairly happy....maybe a few more tweaks here and there, but overall.....happy! Next.....do I put in some type of a soft background (nothing detailed....she is the star) or do I just leave the natural color of the card? Appreciate your comments and suggestions on that......

So there she is.....guess I need to come up with a title too. Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season. Me, I'm back at my painting table.....so, you know I'm where I want to be!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I thought I would share a few holiday photos........

The lovely Yule Log I made for our pot luck here at the RV Park

Then the furballs decided they wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas in all their Holiday splendor. Aren't they just the cutest! I really think they like their little jingle bell collars....that is until.....Mom got just a......little......bit.....outta of control.......

Ok, so Mes and Cosmos are not happy about this at all.....but what are yous a gonna dos....sometimes ours humans dos silly things!

So Far, So Goode

2010-12-22T07:18:00.001-08:00

Well, we have manage to tick off yet another year of marital bliss! Today, Dec 22, is our 31st wedding anniversary. I love you, Billy! You are still the man of my dreams and my very bestest friend. I'm very proud to have those 31 years together.....and I remember being asked on more than one occasion...."What's your secret". My secret is simple.....I love him and he loves me. Love conquers all! Love communicates, Love Listens, Love compromises, Love puts the other first.....and the list goes on, but I'm sure you get the picture! And for those of you just starting out on your journey of marital bliss.....and wondering if the excitement and the romance will wear thin after a few years. After 31 years....we still hold hands, we still cuddle close, and yes......My darling husband can still curl my toes!

Canvas Cards

2010-12-15T17:20:00.000-08:00

I'm afraid things here in the fifth wheel have been a little busy. Guess it is that "time of year". Any....who.....I ran across these nifty canvas greeting cards and decided to take a break from the "truck-n-hare" painting and do a little noodling around on a card. Here is the result.....

I have no idea what these are called...some kind of a cactus flower. I enjoyed painting them...a little looser style than my usual painting style. The blank cards are from Strathmore and are 5" by 7" . They come with matching envelopes which have a very nice deckled edge....very classy! Pack of 10 for $6.59 at Hobby Lobby. I painted this in my usual acrylics and then sealed the surface with waterbased satin varnish. Put it in the mail today.....hope it makes the recipient smile......

New Project

2010-12-07T11:05:00.000-08:00

I'm back to work on another painting. I took the photo of the truck when I was in Yuma a couple of years ago. The image of the Jack Rabbit I have had in my reference stash for quite sometime. I used photoshop elements to place the rabbit into the photo of the truck. That was my first time playing with my composition on photoshop elements...it really helped with placement and perspective. Once I was happy with the composition, I printed it off for a reference. I wanted the image bigger than 8x10 so I printed off sections and than taped it together. Here it is......

Next comes the sketch........

I did enlarge the jack rabbit a bit and pulled him a way from the truck. In the event, I paint the shadows as seen in the photo, I didn't want the rabbit to be completely in shade. Sketching that grill was tedious and time consuming, but worth the effort. For an old forgotten truck, the grill was in remarkably good shape and still has a little bit of shine to it.

Here is the result of my first painting session. It has been a long time since I painted anything other than animals and it took me a while to "get in the groove". I'm really looking forward to getting into the main body of the truck. It is going to be great fun...all those different colors and shapes. I 'm still trying to decide what to do in the background, probably some distant mountains.
I'm using DecoArt Traditions Acrylics on a 11x14 gessoboard. Questions and Comments are always welcome!

Pretty In Pink

2010-12-03T05:08:00.000-08:00

Living in a fifth wheel, I figured my days of putting up a Christmas tree were probably over....not to mention the fact, that I used to own a small gift shop and I put up several trees each year. Just figured I was over it.....if you know what I mean....well....guess NOT.....

Here she is and isn't she "Pretty In Pink". I love pink and I just had to have her. She is a little tall (4 feet), but she is skinny! I found the perfect place for her....on top of my little art cart. My Christmas present to me......
I'm also very proud of myself.....I made a "grab it button" for my blog. Probably doesn't sound like much to those of you who are computer savvy, but for me it was a huge accomplishment. I simply 'googled' how to make a button for blogger and up came this great tutorial. You can find the tutorial here.
I'm currently working on creating my first miniature painting (3 1/2 by 2 1/2). I can't share a photo, yet....it is a gift for someone. It is a bit challenging, my eyes (just like the rest of me) ain't what they used to be. Still....I enjoy a challenge and it is looking good so far. I imagine if I decide to continue doing miniatures I will eventually have to invest in a good magnifying glass. If you all have any suggestions on what works well for you.....let me know....I would appreciate it.

Squirrel "FINI"!

2010-11-29T10:19:00.000-08:00

The squirrel painting is finished! Take a look and let me know what you think! Of course, I'm always thinking something more or less could have been done.....I have to force myself to stop and be satisfied with what I have done. I have listed this at my Etsy Store and I did a business page for "Perfectlygoode" on facebook. Wow, so much to do and so little time. I am really making an effort to "promote" my art and see what happens. Any who, it would be great if any of you have the time to take a look at the facebook page and give me a "like" if you are so inclined.....My widget on my blog just looks so pitiful with only one or two likes at present.....Thanks in advance for those of you that do....and let me know if you have any problems with links.....

Squirrel Part 3

2010-11-24T08:25:00.000-08:00

I spent some more time on my squirrel and here is where I am at today........

At this point, I am pretty satisfied with the tree bark, leaves and background. Not to say that there will not be a little tweaking here and there, but overall I'm ok with what I have done. Now, the squirrel has a ways to go yet. Overall the head and body are in fair shape, but I need more work on the arm. Of Course, I have not done anything but lay in the basic washes of color on the tail. Below is a close up of the head area..... again comments and questions are always welcome

Squirrel Part 2

2010-11-22T09:25:00.000-08:00

We are really enjoying our stay here in Bullhead City. The rv park is lovey and quiet and it seems the town is just big enough.....
Yesterday, I was able to get back to my Baby Squirrel painting. Take a look and see what you think.

Things are going pretty well, but I have decided the tree bark is getting a little to busy. I'm just getting too carried away with the detail and need to bring the focus back to the squirrel.

A little more work on the squirrel and I took some of the detail out of the tree. It is a little too vague now, so I have to put some of the detail back. I also notice that I need to establish the rest of the limb under the squirrel's tail....don't know how I missed that....LOLPlease feel free to comment.....and any questions about my technique are also welcome. I used to teach art at an art shop back in Indiana and I do so miss the interaction with my students. I always felt I learned more from them then they learned from me.

Bullhead City AZ

2010-11-20T13:20:00.000-08:00

Phoenix turned out to be a bit too crowded and we just couldn't find the right place for us. My DH did some research and found Bullhead City.....a similar climate and more of a small town feel. We found just the perfect place El Rio Waterfront Rv and we just love it here. If you are interested in seeing some photos and more on our travels just check out my travel blog The Goode Life.

I have been "settling" in here....getting my chores done and making the fifth wheel feel more like a home. I have so many ideas running through my head, I'm not sure exactly where I want to start. I guess I need to make a list and see what inspires me most. More than likely, my first creative endeavor will be to finish my second squirrel painting. The first was auctioned off.....this one will be put on my Etsy site when finished. I'll post some photos next time.

On the Road

2010-11-05T05:33:00.000-07:00

We finally left our temporary home on the Tippecanoe river and started our journey west. This year we will be spending most of the winter in Arizona, most likely the Phoenix area. As long as we are in travel mode....my art is put on hold. Most of the time we only spend one or two nights at an rv park. That is just not enough time to drag out the tools which I need to create. I would no sooner get my project started and it would be time to pack up and leave. We travel in a fifth wheel with 3 slides so furniture has to be "arranged" for the slides to come in and then "re-arranged" for comfort when the slides come out. I know sounds like a lot of work, but it really isn't that bad once you are used to it. I love my home on wheels and traveling and seeing this beautiful country of ours. If you are interested in the rv full time lifestyle or our travels, please check out my travel blog...... The Goode Life

In the meantime, I am working on my website. I'm hoping to have that finished and up loaded sometime this week. Once we get to Phoenix, I will be back into painting and sewing and beading and embroidery......or whatever else my creative energies turn too. Yes, I carry a sewing machine, all my painting supplies, beading supplies, and embroidery supplies along with me in my fifth wheel. Storage space is limited.....so I am very selective of what I carry. I don't have those normal creative "stashes" that a lot of you do. I tend to only have what I need for a specific project or two at a time. One definitely has to have a "use it or lose it" attitude when living in 400 square foot.....which you share with a husband and two crazy fox terriers!

Squirrel paintings

2010-10-18T11:48:00.000-07:00

Here is the final finished portrait of "Braveheart" the little squirrel who fell from our tree. I am going to donate this to the auction in support of the wildlife center here in Delphi. They did everything in their power to save this little guy, but it was not to be. At least they were able to save his two sisters. They are doing well and will be released back into the wild sometime in the spring.

This is my second painting. I have just started laying in my initial washes of color. If I get it done in time, this will also be donated to the auction. I know some folks see these little guys as pest...who raid their bird feeders and such...but I just love them!

I think I'm done.....

2010-09-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

No new photos of the latest art project....Braveheart. I do think I am finished....it is perched up on my window where I can occasionally look at it. I will leave it there for awhile....I like to "live" with my art for awhile before I call it "finished". Soon, though, very soon I will post a final photo. I will be starting my sketch for the next squirrel in this series. This one will have a young squirrel sitting on a tree limb.....eating a nut, I think! I have also been reading this fabulous book......I'll promise to share the title and some more info on that next post.....gotta run....thanks for stopping by

BraveHeart Painting

2010-09-19T06:25:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of the leaves I collected to use in the painting of Braveheart. I decided that I needed some good reference material and I am so glad I did. Even though you think you know what a leaf looks like......I found, at least for me,.....that you can quickly forget some of the most important details. Besides which, mother nature does a much more impressive job with colors, texture, and shadows, then my little artistic brain can do....LOL!

Here we are....Braveheart. I have a ways to go, but I'm feeling pretty good about the painting as a whole. The leaves are coming together, but I am concerned that they may overpower my sleeping Braveheart. We shall see. This is painted in acrylics on gesso board it is a wonderful surface for fine detail. Also, I like to work in transparent layers and the board lends itself to that very well. The color "sits on top" long enough to work with, but dries quick enough not to frustrate me. I can, with a little scrubbing, lift color for highlights and other effects without damaging the board. All in all.....gesso board is a great choice for me!

Braveheart Sketch

2010-09-14T08:12:00.000-07:00

Here is my sketch of little Braveheart. This is how I want to remember this little guy...safely nestled among the leaves....dreaming of....well, dreaming whatever happy little squirrels dream. He was such a sweet little boy. I did spend most of the day painting yesterday. I have to say I really lost myself in painting and enjoyed watching this little fellow slowly coming to life. The leaves are a struggle....leaves are a personal demon of mine. I just seem to struggle so....but I'm trying to take deep breaths and when the struggle gets overwhelming I take a break and that does help. Fresh eyes....ya know. My goal is not to let the details of the leaves overpower little Braveheart. I want some to be sharply in focus, but others to be more abstract in nature. I will share some more photos next time....till then, enjoy the day

Fall is in the air.....

2010-09-07T15:24:00.000-07:00

I just love this time of year.....the temps over Labor Day weekend were very fall-like. That cool, crisp, snap in the air just seems to revive my very soul! I finished up a sewing project and I am anxious to start painting. I have been "dreaming" my painting these last few nights and I think I'm ready now to put pencil to paper for the first sketches.

I will be starting my "BraveHeart" painting this week. Here is a rough idea for the painting. I think I will be doing 3 small paintings which may be hung together or separately. The first will be of Braveheart curled up and asleep in the leaves. The second will be of one of his sisters.....peaking out of a hole in the tree. The third will be the second sister.....perched on a branch eating a nut. As soon as I get the sketches finished, I will post them here for you to see.

I have also been thinking of making some marketing plans for my art. I have been looking into imagekind. Imagekind will make fine art prints from uploads of your work. At first I didn't think I could get a high enough resolution to make that work, but I have been doing some research and I think I can. I let you all know how that works out. And.....any of you that have done this and have any tips....please let me hear from you.....

My Heart is Sad Today

2010-08-29T12:08:00.001-07:00

Today I received an update on the three little squirrels we rescued a few days ago. The little male, the one who had fallen from the nest, passed away yesterday. The folks at the refuge did all they could, but they suspect he was probably injured internally in the fall and he just couldn't hang on. At least I know he was well cared for and felt safe and warm and loved for the few days he had on this earth. I also know he was one brave little guy; for if not for him leaving the nest, his sisters would have surly died. The "girls" are doing very well and have even been started on some solid food this week. As I mentioned, the refuge has ask that I do a painting for their auction in October. I'm going to call the painting "Brave Heart" and it will be of that sweet little male squirrel. I'm also going to include the "story of Brave Heart" in a packet on the back. Brave Heart may have been small and frail, but this heart was brave.......and he will be remember forever......in the hearts of animal lovers everywhere.......

Playing with 'Blogger' and New Project

2010-08-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

I am trying to re-design my blog. Things may get ugly......but hang in.......and hopefully I will find something that works. I have to admit I have not spent much time here in blog land and not much time on my art. Life just keeps getting in the way of things.....I get determined to make a change and then "whoops!" procrastination.....that age old enemy of mine sets in and everything goes to......well......you know. I have struggled with that enemy my entire life. I'm not big on popping pills, but I'd sure sign up for one that would put an end to that nasty habit......."never do today, what you can put off til tomorrow"......I need a new mantra!

Ok, so what is on my artsy mind today. I do have an upcoming project. A few days ago, my husband and I manage to save 3 baby squirrels. It seems mama squirrel was not coming back and the babies would soon starve. We rescued them and put them in the competent hands of Wildcat Creek Wildlife Center. I think all three babies have a good chance of survival. The Wildlife Center asked me if I would be interested in donating a piece of art for their upcoming fundraiser auction. I said yes. A few years ago, I donated the painting you see below.

Red Tailed Hawk

I'm sure you have guessed what my subject will be......baby squirrels......as I just happened to have some very cute photos for reference. The auction, I think, is in October. I will post some photos as the work progresses. I'm in that 'thinking' stage right now. I have to visualize my ideas in my head......I especially like doing that right at bed time.....if I'm lucky I will actually 'dream' an idea for the painting. Sounds weird, I know......but then I have been kinda weird my whole life. Us 'creative types' we just approach life a bit differently than the rest of the world......and that is 'ok' by me....in fact, I kinda like it that way.......

Studio Space and Polar Bear

2010-06-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

I am still working on the mural and I will share some more photos at a later date. For now, I would like to share with you a bit about my studio and my latest painting.

This is my studio space. As most of you know, I live full time in our fifth wheel and travel. I have been trying for quite some time to crave out a little nook where I could paint and not have to 'break down' my studio everyday. I think I have found it here. I have a large window to my back which lets in lots of natural light. The cabinet to my left holds my art supplies...it is on wheels so it is easily moved when necessary. My easel is collapsible and tucks away into a nice carrying case. But....now that I am tucked back into this little corner I can leave my 'studio' in tack while I work on projects....and I am out of the way and most importantly everyone is outta my way....LOL!

This is my latest work in progress. This is done with my acrylics on canvas. I'm doing this one for my Grandson. He loves polar bears and especially liked that 'blue tongue' sticking out on this particular bear. It has been great fun painting this guy.....and I am almost finished. Comments are always welcome......

Little by little, bit by bit.......

2010-04-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

I'm slowly working on the bedroom mural. We have done a lot of travel and attended an rv rally the last month. We are currently in Mt Vernon, Ky.

Here is a little closer look at the background. I decided to deepen the mountains and increase the size of the distant ocean view.

Here you see the 'jungle' coming to life. Lots of leafy things growing, the bird I purchased at a gift shop and I think he has found a new home here in my jungle mural.