"Passages" 14 x 6, oil, 2016 Cedarburg Plein Air Honorable Mention
When I heard my name called at the awards reception, I suddenly felt a surge of emotion. Not only happiness, but deep sadness that we lost our mother Ursula a month ago that evening. To think it had only been exactly a month to the day was overwhelming. My Mother had been such a huge influence in my creative world, always surrounding the farmhouse with beautiful, simple things and was always my biggest "collector." Artwork from my middle school and high school years still hangs in the home. "Passages" was painted for you Mom....that you have passed to be with our beloved God, into the arms of the ONE who loves us beyond our wildest imaginations. No longer suffering, in complete and heavenly peace.
My Mother marked verses in her Bible during her last months and one that she really underlined was from Psalm 16:11. "You will show me the path that leads to life. Your presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever." For me, this painting "Passages" captures the new life that God promises.
There were many other paintings created during this week long event that I will share here. These events are always a week of discovery and affirmation about areas of focus as an artist. And yes, I finally painted the beloved bluebird in my very own backyard.
"Bluebird Café" 14 x 6, oil, sold
Painting in my backyard! That was a treat.
Chickens....and event is not complete without them!
"Mequon Marsh" 14 x 6, oil
Painted predawn
Out of bed around 3:30 a.m., off to McDonalds for java. Parked at the Mequon fire/police station and walked to my location. I've been scouting this spot for years. The patterns caught my eye. The sunrise didn't happen directly over the marsh, but still provided the mood I was going for. Bullfrogs and curious drivers on busy Port Washington Road kept me company. This photo was taken around 5:30 a.m., had my lights set up at 4 to begin mixing colors. Love this time of day!!!!
"Pasture Paradise" 14 x 6, oil
Painting more moving objects in plein air...and let me tell you these cattle really moved around grazing. A very quick paint!
"Predawn Peace" 6 x 14, oil, sold
It wouldn't be an event if I didn't get up to my favorite, favorite spot in Port Washington. Coal Dock Park. Another drive through to McDonalds around 3:30 a.m. for coffee, then set up before 4:15 a.m. to begin painting. The predawn light happens so fast, completed by 5:30. Had fun watching this young man pull in a beautiful brown trout. It's a great way to start the day.
Early morning action happening right in front of my easel. What fun.
Painted at Spirit Lake in Mequon
Fun at Far Field Farm, what an amazing way to spend a Sunday afternoon with this wonderful family.
More Chickens! Thank you Patti and Randy for the hospitality.
It's a wrap! Until next year....
