A calming creek

Yet another place that's close to home I've driven past a zillion times and finally painted there.  The snow was captivating.  Draping the trees and the areas along the creek.  Robins came by in droves to signal a true sign of spring.  I even spotted a bluebird and for those of you who know me, they seem to follow me.  All in all, a wonderful and peaceful plein air experience!

"Pigeon Creek 1" - 11 x 14

block in

Pigeon Creek 2 - 11 x 14

 

The Robins were everywhere!

 

 

Shades of Gray

On March 6th we set out to paint in overcast conditions.  I find the lack of sun much more challenging when it comes to painting the snow. 
The first stop was a beautiful church just north of Mequon.  I've always loved how there's a nice farm across the street.  A unique scene when you live so close to a big city. 

Getting started

"Lakefield Road" 10 x 12

 

Then we ventured off to the Cedarburg Quilt Museum.  I have always loved how the buildings are all tucked together, cozy and warm just like a quilt on a gray day.

 

"Cedarburg Quilt Museum"  12 x 12

 

 

A blustery beginning to the day

In the early hours of the morning of March 5th, my friend Liesl texted me and reported that the icecano formations on Lake Michigan were "awesome."  Looking at the radar, the weather forecast was calling for snow.  Plus, I was fighting off a cold....all reasons to paint Lake Michigan another day.  But then I thought maybe the fresh air would do me some good and I hadn't been down to the shores of Lake Michigan at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center in a long time.  I called my painter friend Lynn and we tried to beat the incoming snowstorm.  The lakefront didn't disappoint. 

At first we were met with that wonderful "peachy" sky that rolls around this time of the year.  Then, the fierce winds picked up and that all changed within minutes we were being pelted with snow and ice.  Suddenly we heard voices and the preschoolers had ventured down to play in the icecanos with Miss Liesl, Miss Collette and Miss CeCe.  What a joy to watch the kids and spend time with them hiking up the big hill.  If you venture down the path, you'll find some remnent snow angels along the way! 

Chatting with the preschoolers

 

A finished painting (9 x 12)

Finished Painting (9 x 12)

 

 

Can you see me on the far right?

Thanks to James and Liesl for sending photos!

Cedar Creek

We are fortunate to live nearby the charming town of Cedarburg.  As an artist, I am grateful for the people of the community who had the foresight to save the historic buildings.  It's no wonder Cedarburg has so many artists, it's very inspiring!

On this very cold Saturday, a few friends and I set up along the creek in knee deep snow and enjoyed the sights and sounds of the creek.  Our friend Anne stopped by with some much needed hot chocolate! 

Overcast

Plein air painting last week along the Milwaukee River.  The session started in sun, but that quickly went away.  It was a real challenge painting this in overcast conditions, but always an enjoyable experience. 

Bohemia

It's always a nice having a venue to exhibit your work locally.  And that opportunity came knocking a few months ago from the energetic and creative team at Bohemia in Cedarburg. 
I am honored to be among other local artists who have their work at this fun new shop in Cedarburg.  It's a wonderful mix of home decor, art and accessories in the heart of downtown.  Just a few doors down from Amy's Candy Kitchen, home to the super yummy apples! 

Stop in, browse, chat and be inspired!

Back on the Ice

It was a great feeling getting my boots back on the ice and my easel in the snow this weekend up in Door County (Wisconsin).  Yes, it was bitterly cold and my oil paints acted up, but once again I resorted to my trusted friend -- the palette knife -- to move paint around. 

 

 

 

For me, nothing comes close to the amazing stillness of Lake Michigan during the winter.  It's a peaceful painting experience full of breathtaking colors.