Shelley Koopmann

Dog Wash

2012-03-04T11:02:00.000-05:00

5x7 Oil on Hardboard

Here's Cooper getting a fast spray off after being in the ocean. I had more fun watching Cooper play in the water, run on the beach, and even get a "warning" about being off leash by the local authorities. Thanks to our friends, Gloria and Jim, we had a great time at Emerald Isle, and I have lots of memories to paint.

Crazy Socks

2012-03-01T13:40:00.000-05:00

6x6 Oil on Gessoboard

Loved the arch of the foot. That was my main focus..plus those great socks. This was done pretty fast, very rough, and the nice thing about oils is the fact that I can go back and fix anything that bothers me at another time. Quite unlike pastels that allow for a little fussing, but not much. I did this last week, and when I look at it now I can actually see that I've improved quite a bit since this painting. I'm getting used to the process of mixing colors. How wonderful to keep learning. See...You can teach an old dog new tricks :-)

Snow at the Lake

2012-02-26T19:26:00.001-05:00

Oil on Masonite

What I tried to capture here is the snowy day we had last week..cold and icy. I actually painted this from my studio looking out at the snow building up. I think the view through the windows gives what I paint a glassy look, if that makes any sense. It's a slightly different view from the inside looking out. That pane of glass really does make a difference.

LiLi - Pretty in Pink

2012-02-20T20:10:00.000-05:00

Pastel on Wallis Paper

This pretty young lady found a quite corner while we were having our Grand Opening of ArtVisions, and I couldn't resist painting her in her great outfit. Actually, it was her socks that got me! Her name is LiLi and she is absolutely adorable. The painting is not totally finished, but I thought I'd post it now. It helps me to see it from another perspective. I've noticed a couple of things I will change, but I'm basically really happy with it.

Down and Out

2012-02-16T12:00:00.001-05:00

5 x 7 Oil on Board

Another oil. I'm on a roll now. It's funny, but a number of people have told me that my oils look just like my pastels. I guess that's what they call "a style." Being self-taught, I really don't know any other way of painting :-) I really like this one and thank my painting buddy, Sue Beckett, for the use of one of her photos from a European trip she took. That's what is so great about painting with a group of friends. They get to know what you enjoy painting and are always willing to share. There are no egos involved, just the pure enjoyment of creating art and sharing memories. I feel very fortunate to paint along side of these fine artists.

Enjoying Smith Mountain Lake

2012-02-11T19:44:00.000-05:00

SOLD

Thinking Spring, even though we haven't really had winter. This scene is like so many here at Smith Mountain Lake: Sparking blue water, white sailboat, beautiful mountains... Life is good!!

Wood and Hay

2012-02-09T10:04:00.000-05:00

20 x 24 Pastel on Wallis Paper (Framed)

This was a beautiful old barn I came across on my travels. It could be any barn, anywhere. The actual pastel painting has a lot more color in it, but for some reason a lot of the colors are muted in this photo, so you'll have to use your imagination and see sharp purples and teal along with richer wood colors. I hope you get that "old barn feeling" though :-)

Olson House Guide

2012-02-05T08:54:00.000-05:00

5 x 7 Oil on Board

Second attempt! I'm getting the hang of mixing colors, although this painting and the above were done with a portrait set with a very limited palette of colors. The painting on my easel now is more exciting for me because of all the choices I have to mix with. With pastels, the joy is that all the colors are at your finger tips..literally. Oils, for me, is much more of a challenge. I have to start from scratch and experiment with what I'll actually get on my brush and on the canvas or board. To be honest, pastel is still my true love, but I'm so curious to see what will happen with this new obsession. Since I'm basically self-taught in both pastel and now oils, I get a real rush when I finish a piece that I'm happy with.

Senior Citizen

2012-02-04T10:37:00.001-05:00

5 x 7 Oil on Board

So, this is my new passion. I'll never get tired of pastels, but I've always wanted to get my hands into oils and thought I'd take the plunge and play. I'm having such a great time! I placed a LARGE order from Blick, and it arrived on Thursday. It was like Christmas when I opened the box. I almost hated to open the tubes. When I was young and got a new box of crayons, I would save them so they wouldn't get worn, and use my cousin's set. That way, mine would always look perfect. She got wise to that pretty quickly and refused to let me touch her things. Well, I opened the tubes and "dug in." This may not be technically perfect, but I'm sure happy with it! I still have a few more supplies coming...Another Christmas!

Ferry Thoughts

2012-01-31T12:18:00.000-05:00

I've been wanting to paint this since our trip to Monhegan Island last summer. Although it's devoid of bright color, I think it's really atmospheric and works well. It was a cold, rainy ride back to the mainland, and we were all bundled up inside the cabin to keep warm. Even in bad weather, it feels so good to be by the ocean. The only drawback to being in the cabin was when the captain said over the loudspeaker: "If anyone feels sea sick, there are bags for you." I felt fine until he made that comment...then not so much...

GRAND OPENING OF ARTVISIONS GALLERY AND STUDIOS

2012-01-28T08:04:00.000-05:00

Come join us for the Grand Opening of ArtVisions Gallery and Studios, at 7005 Booker T. Washington Highway, Wirtz, VA, on Sunday, February 12th, 2012, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Our members are Rose Mary Atkins, Sue Beckett, Whitney Brock, Nancy Brown, Marie Campbell, Rita Carroll, Mary Lou Koons, Shelley Koopmann, Kathy Lietz, Jane Schafer, and Nancy Stellhorn. If you are in the area, stop by and meet the artists. There will be refreshments and Grand Opening discounts. We are all very excited about our new venture and hope you will join us to celebrate!

Bluebird Man

2012-01-26T14:04:00.001-05:00

SOLD

This is a wonderful man named Herb who is the keeper of the bluebird houses at Booker T. Washington Park. He and his wife go around to all the houses to check on the bluebird population and status. I met them at the park when I was there to plein air paint on a beautiful day. At the time there were baby sheep, so I didn't get much painting in, but I did get a lot of pictures. If you're ever at Smith Mountain Lake, check out the park. It's well worth the visit.

Chivalry

2012-01-22T16:54:00.000-05:00

As you can see, chivalry is not dead. This couple owns an inn with absolutely beautiful flowers and landscaping. He does the cooking for breakfast, and she works in the garden. A perfect match! We stayed there for two nights and really enjoyed the visit and the stories about the owners' lives. My need to document the everyday occurrences in my life is what pushes me onward with my painting. I can never wait to start the next one, even though I may not be totally finished with the one on the easel. Life is full of paintings waiting to happen.

Smith Mountain Lake Sunset

2012-01-20T10:58:00.000-05:00

Sky studies are the hardest, I think. They look like they would be relatively easy to paint, but getting the cloud tones and the movement is difficult. If painting from a photo, the colors don't show up as vibrantly as the actual scene. If you've ever tried to take a picture as the sun was setting, you know what I mean. I'm happy with this one, though. I think you can feel those clouds moving. I'm so happy to be back in the studio painting again. Even Tallulah (my Sproodle) is content to be left in her crate for a while....

Conversation Pit

2012-01-15T18:15:00.001-05:00

Three men sitting in a space between the rocks, probably discussing politics or the stock market :-) However, I prefer to believe they were discussing the beauty of the landscape, which was breathtaking!!

Snowman with Shovel

2012-01-09T07:11:00.001-05:00

Keeping ahead of the falling snow is the key, according to my husband. That way he just has to push and not lift. I love painting snow, and this one was no exception. There are so many colors you can use in the white. Actually, there isn't too much pure white in this painting at all....only at the very end of my painting process as a highlight.

View From the Cape

2012-01-07T11:16:00.000-05:00

This might be a disappearing scene here at Smith Mountain Lake. The land is for sale, and we are all hoping it doesn't sell too fast. This was last winter's snow. I know I'm not popular when I say I hope we will see more snow scenes like this during the winter of 2012. You can't beat the beauty of a new snowfall!

AARP Rocker and His Groupie

2012-01-04T19:43:00.000-05:00

This is really a rough preliminary painting, and I've gotten a lot of information from the process of getting it started. I've found that this helps me quite a bit and impacts the final painting. I thought I'd put it on the blog so that when I complete the final version, it will be fun to see how it changed. These two men were enjoying the outdoors and gathering quite a crowd. The man to the right was keeping time with his hand. He looked very dapper with his red tie.

LuLa in Motion

2011-12-28T16:09:00.000-05:00

This is my first painting of Tallulah, and my first painting done since we brought her home. It felt so nice to get back to painting again. I really missed it! I painted this in our new gallery/studio at Envisions in Boones Mill, VA. Some of my artist friends and I have been lucky enough to get a space that is perfect for us to use as our joint studio. The best part is that we are able to paint together and enjoy the process in the company of friends. What can be better than that!!? I'm looking forward to lots more time there. Happy New Year everyone!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-18T08:47:00.001-05:00

The bow looked a lot better before Tallulah chewed it, but it still looks festive, doesn't it? She wishes you a Sproodle Merry Christmas! We'll post again after the Holiday. Wishing you and your families a happy and healthy holiday.

Christmas Tree With Red Dye #3

2011-12-17T11:22:00.000-05:00

What fun this one was to do! It took me over an hour to set up the candy. I first tried to stack them, and naturally they wouldn't hold in position. My next thought was a glue stick, but I couldn't get it open. So...being creative (or crazy), I decided to lick each one. The only trouble with that was that I hate mint, and every time I stuck one on, three came off because I was so sticky. By the time I was done, I really wasn't in the mood to paint. I photographed them and painted them the following day. I must say though, I smelled very minty for quite a while. I used this as my Christmas card this year.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!

Fresh Snowfall

2011-12-13T07:45:00.000-05:00

SOLD

The barn in New Hampshire again...New perspective. This is one of my favorite snow paintings and again was used for a Christmas card with an added wreath and red bow on the front door. My mantra in December is "Please Snow," however, sometimes you have to be careful what you wish for!

Tallulah - Duck Hunting

2011-12-08T14:15:00.000-05:00

Here's Tallulah with her "Don't even think about taking this away from me!" look. You can tell by her eyes that she means business. She is really a fun dog. Lots of personality...sometimes good and sometimes bad. No Christmas tree for us this year :-) Tonight is her first "Puppy Class." This should be interesting!

Winter Shed

2011-12-07T12:30:00.000-05:00

A quick watercolor done in black and white...Very simple, but I think it says just about all there is to say. This shed is at my cousin's house in New Hampshire. For Christmas a few years ago, I put a red and green wreath on the door in acrylics and used it as one of my Christmas cards. I really love the simplicity and peacefulness of the scene. Watercolor is not my "thing," but this one worked for me.

Smith Mountain Lake Christmas

2011-12-03T07:23:00.000-05:00

This was one of my Christmas cards from a few years ago. I had a commission to paint a tree on the end of a dock, and this is what I came up with. I've sold a lot of these cards the last few years. It's always fun to open cards people send me and see my own paintings. This isn't any particular Smith Mountain Lake scene. It's just from my imagination and could be anywhere here at the Lake. I still like the "feel" of the cold water and winter sky. I love Christmas!!!

Hardy Road Vista

2011-11-25T11:40:00.002-05:00

SOLD

This painting was done in the Fall before the leaves fell from the trees. Growing up on Long Island in New York which is extremely flat, I'm always awed by the mountains. This particular view is really beautiful. I painted this quite a while ago when the barn was still kept up. Now, it has deteriorated but remains mostly intact. I don't know how much longer that will be the case. I'd like to paint it again, now that I have a few more years of painting knowledge and experience.

Thanksgiving Rooster

2011-11-22T09:55:00.000-05:00

OK...I realize that this is not a turkey, but this is as close to it as I'll come this year! It will have to serve as a Thanksgiving Rooster, although I'm sure the rooster will have something to say about that. It would certainly taste better than the tofu turkey I served one year. My kids will never let me live that one down :-) I wish you all a very happy, safe Thanksgiving.

The Buffet

2011-11-16T14:58:00.000-05:00

I observed this gentleman at the buffet table at an art gallery reception. I've seen him a few times since, and always at an art reception, and always at the buffet table. He's my type of guy! Art and food... Two very important aspects of life.

Barns in Winter, Smith Mountain Lake

2011-11-12T07:52:00.000-05:00

SOLD

As I've said, I love snow, and I did this painting for my Christmas card a few years ago. It is one of my favorites. Again, the barns are in Floyd which is a perfect place to get inspiration. The rest of it is Smith Mountain Lake. By the way, stop by Goose Creek Studio in Bedford. They are presenting a funky Christmas tree event. I will post the painting I submitted in the coming days, but you can see all of the artwork there soon. As it turns out, I think I'll use the one I am putting in as my Christmas card for 2011. I am so inspired by Goose Creek Studio and Patrick and Mitchell (the owners). They are the most supportive guys in the world, and I'm truly honored to have my work there. If you have time, check out Goose Creek Studio!

Trouble!!

2011-11-10T11:30:00.001-05:00

An update on Tallulah..since she doesn't give me any time to paint yet. She looks innocent, right? Well, she's not! Try reading the paper at the kitchen table. She jumps up and grabs the edge and run away with it.
She manages to reach everything, and she's smart. She has learned a few commands - "sit", "down", and is beginning to learn to roll over. I think we are adjusting to each other. I have to say, even with all the puppy energy, she is a really loving dog and she does want to please. Actually, I keep repeating that as she's grabbing the bottom of my jeans or my shoe laces...."She really is a loving dog!"

Old Country House

2011-11-08T13:02:00.000-05:00

SOLD

Well, if you know my work, you have seen this before. Having a 9 week old puppy has kept me from painting recently, but I think we are beginning to have a "relationship" where Tallulah knows who is the alpha dog/human. (Up until now, she thought it was her :-)) I love old houses with character, and this was one of them. The yellow and red make for a happy painting!

Smith Mountain Lake Winter

2011-11-05T11:16:00.001-04:00

SOLD

I'm thinking winter! It was really cold this morning at 3 AM, when I took our puppy out. Most people like Smith Mountain Lake in the summer, but I also love it here in the winter. I'm crazy about painting snow and look for every opportunity to do so. This painting was done from several photos of different scenes I took and then put together. The mountains are Smith Mountain Lake and the barns are Floyd. This is actually my favorite way of painting because it involves using a little of my imagination...something I try to do in each piece of work.

Mountain Shadows, Smith Mountain Lake

2011-11-02T10:52:00.000-04:00

SOLD

This image was painted from a photograph I took on the way up to the Smith Mountain Dam on our boat. It was the beginning of September and the leaves were just starting to change color. It has always been one of my favorite paintings. The challenge was to keep the colors muted and give it a little of that hazy feel. I used to be really organized in my studio and have the pastels divided into categories. That has gone by the wayside... I plan to rearrange them once again. Otherwise, the "right" pastel is not at hand when I need it, and the search never turns up what I have in mind.

Meet My New Studio Pal, LuLa

2011-10-30T11:50:00.001-04:00

The subject of this photo is the reason I haven't posted anything new on my blog. Tallulah is our new Sproodle puppy (springer spaniel/poodle) and she is a delight...until bedtime. Then all bets are off, although she has only been with us and away from her litter mates for two nights. She is a welcomed addition to our family and so much fun. Can't wait to paint her! If you want to see more Sproodles, go to Old Mill Doodles. They are the best! They breed really healthy and adorable labradoodles, goldendoodles, and sproodles.

Halloween at the General Store

2011-10-23T13:13:00.000-04:00

SOLD

This painting was my ode to The General Store here at Smith Mountain Lake. The owners have been so wonderful and supportive of my artwork. If you want to see a wide selection of my work, that's the place to go! They have originals, Giclee prints, regular prints, and cards. If you can't make it to the store, they have a website that has a lot of my work, http://www.generalstoresml.com/. The store has a great selection of quilting materials and gift ideas as well.

View from Bridgewater

2011-10-21T11:17:00.001-04:00

This is Smith Mountain Lake at it's best! I did this quite a while ago, but thought I would re-post it now. I would like to do this one again. This was done in the early summer. Right now, the colors are wonderful and it would make a great new painting. I'm adding it to my list :-)

One Large Black Dog At Rest

2011-10-16T13:56:00.000-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

This Newfoundland attracted a lot of attention, and I think the owner was pleased about that. I'm getting more and more into practicing shading and skin tone and really enjoying it. I feel as though I'm sculpting with the pastels, using the darks and lights to create bone structure and placing that dash of color is just the right place.

Silver Sea

2011-10-10T14:18:00.000-04:00

11 x 5-1/2 Pastel on Wallis Paper

20 x 14 Framed

This painting shows why I keep saying that it doesn't matter what the weather is like on Monhegan Island. Each and every day is more breathtaking than the day before. This was one of them. The stormy sky with just a little sun trying to get through gave the ocean a sparkle that was incredible. That is what I tried to capture here. That sparkle...

Day's End

2011-10-04T14:05:00.001-04:00

16 x 20 Pastel on Colorfix Pastel Board

This was one of the most beautiful sunsets I've seen. Capturing it was a challenge because nature gives us colors that are almost impossible to capture in mere paint. Unfortunately, this image does not do the painting justice. For some reason, the photo of the painting came out lighter than the actual painting. The sky has many more colors and the water is not as light...but you can get the idea. What I wanted to express in this painting was the stillness and peace one gets when observing the sky and water at dusk. This might be one of my favorites!

Dog Toss Ballet

2011-09-29T13:15:00.003-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

This man and his Lab were having a great time playing catch. Entire tree limbs were being thrown into the surf, and the Lab took off into the water and dragged anything thrown back to shore, and then attempted to devour it. The man's position was so elegant. He could have been a principal dancer in the American Ballet Theater's company. This cried out to be painted!

Christina's View, 2011

2011-09-24T14:45:00.001-04:00

A visit to the Olson House in Cushing, Maine, inspired this painting. We had a wonderful tour of the home by a guide who really had the enthusiasm to bring everything to light about Andrew Wyeth's painting "Christina's World." We were able to see Wyeth's interpretation from his actual vantage point. I don't know about the others in the group, but I could almost feel him working there. I'm guessing that my view in this painting is approximately where he placed Christina, but it's only a guess. As you can see, the house and barn are closer together in reality, and in Wyeth's painting the scene is stripped to only the bare essentials. I included in this pastel the trees that are present...A view from 2011. The post below is an image of the actual painting. One can never get too much of the wonderful Andrew Wyeth!!

Andrew Wyeth's "Christina's World"

2011-09-24T12:18:00.001-04:00

This is Andrew Wyeth's "Christina's World." What more can one say!

Shoulder View

2011-09-20T11:10:00.000-04:00

7x7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

What better vantage point than from your father's shoulder?! I caught these two at Ocean Point in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. For the quintessential Maine experience one has to stand on the rocks and look out to sea. The light, smell of salt air, and sound of the waves hitting the rocks should not be missed. If I close my eyes, I can still sense it all.

Monhegan Dusk

2011-09-18T17:08:00.000-04:00

Dusk before the rain set in the next morning. This was the view from our room at Shining Sails Inn as the sun was setting. What a wonderful sight! During the night, you can hear the buoy bell and smell the salt air. I painted this in the common room of the inn the next day while the rain poured down. It was a great way to spend the afternoon. We were lucky to have some really interesting, friendly people staying there. Part of the highlight of the trip was the breakfast conversation with all the guests. Most had visited the Island before, and we all shared stories. John, the owner of the inn, is a lobsterman as well as inn owner, and he shared a lot of information. Winnie, his wife, joined us for a while and told us stories about their son, Kyle, who posed for a number of Jamie Wyeth's paintings, one of which is hanging in their common room. There are also photos of Jamie Wyeth painting Kyle. I felt so lucky to be able to spend time there.

Monhegan Light

2011-09-15T13:32:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

This is another study done on Monhegan Island. For those who don't know about Monhegan, you have to get there by ferry. There are no cars except for the fishermen's old trucks. There is one main dirt road that weaves through the village. I can't explain the atmospheric light. It's just wonderful. I tried to capture it in this quick piece and am pleased with it. I was thinking I'd do a "finished" painting, but this, for me, captures the essence of the Island - at least the village. It's like taking a step back in time.

Storm Front Coming

2011-09-13T18:42:00.002-04:00

6x6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

We're back from Maine! It was a wonderful trip with lots to see and paint. I came home with over 300 photos and can't wait to get started in my studio. This study was done the first day on Monhegan Island. We had clouds when we arrived on the ferry, but the sun came out for most of the afternoon. Then, a storm front moved in and it rained the entire next day. This scene is from Fish Beach, looking out at the tip of Manana and the ocean beyond, before the rain started. Actually, it has a few rain spots on it, but as Vera Dickerson, the wonderful artist that led the group, says...The drops just add texture :-) More on the trip in the next few posts....

Boothbay Magic

2011-08-25T11:07:00.001-04:00

SOLD

I'm posting this painting I did a while ago because I'm getting ready to go back to Boothbay Harbor and Monhegan Island with Vera Dickerson, a wonderful artist from Roanoke, and her group from The Studio School. I've gone three years in a row, and still can't wait to return. This view was from my first trip on our first day. The next morning we took the ferry to Monhegan to begin painting there for two days. Although the scenery never changes from year to year, there are so many astonishing sights that one never gets tired of it. Today, I'm packing my pastels. Maine awaits!!

Lake Jump

2011-08-24T16:38:00.001-04:00

11 x 5-1/2" Pastel on Wallis Paper, 20 x 14" Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

We've had a whole lot of shakin' goin' on here in VA! Yesterday, during our earthquake, some of my pastels rolled off my desk and smashed on the floor. I didn't realize it until today when I went out to paint and stepped on one...
This is another in the series of "kid" paintings, possibly the last but one never knows. For the next few months, I'm going to paint up a storm. We are getting a puppy the end of October or early November, and I have a feeling that my painting sessions might be cut short. Ah, but it's worth it...!!

Canine Art Critic

2011-08-20T13:36:00.001-04:00

5 x 8" Pastel on Wallis Paper, 12 x 15" Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

A hot day at the Roanoke Sidewalk Art Show...I think this dog was deciding whether or not to buy the painting that was propped up. He also was hinting that he wanted a large cold drink. He probably had more luck with the drink than getting his "people" to buy him the painting...

Lake Snow

2011-08-19T12:17:00.000-04:00

SOLD

I'm thinking winter! Summer's been nice, but I'm ready for brisk, cold days and snow (that doesn't have to be shoveled...)

Breakfast Conversation

2011-08-14T14:24:00.001-04:00

11-1/2 x 15 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 20 x 24 Framed

$225 + s/h (Framed)

This was breakfast at the Island Inn on Monhegan Island. The sun was pouring in through the windows of the dining room. We were so lucky with the weather. Our group was able to paint everyday, and the temperature couldn't have been better. We are going again the beginning of September. One can only hope that our luck continues :-) If not, I will just have to paint the fog and rain. That's OK, too!

Historic Beauty

2011-08-11T19:57:00.002-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

SOLD

I love old buildings, and this structure dated back to the late 1800's. It was part of a Shaker community building that I believe was used as a central meeting place. I chose to paint this view because the flowering bush in front of the window really set it off, but I might paint it again from the inside looking out through the leaded glass. It always amazes me to see how the glass distorts the view and gives objects a surreal quality.

Two Friends on a Red Bench

2011-08-07T12:54:00.004-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

I love the worn look these two gentlemen have, the leather jackets, and the great body language. I used a lot of quick dabs and dashes. It's rough, but it works on these subjects. They were apparently waiting for the drug and alcohol abuse session to begin. One of them was happy :-)

Black Belt Academy

2011-08-04T19:18:00.001-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

All sizes, all shapes, and everyone was paying considerable attention to the person leading the group. The little girl in the front row seemed to be the most enthralled. This was just an exercise for me. I wanted to establish shapes, positions, etc. I'm happy with this piece and will do a larger one at some point. I must say, the people running this academy were extremely nice to let me observe.

You Go First!

2011-07-31T11:36:00.004-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel Painting on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

Summer heat!! Another painting of the children who visited us. What fun to watch them, and even more fun to paint them. I can't believe July is over, but I'm really ready for Fall and those wonderful colors and fresh crisp air.

Summer, The Cliffs (Smith Mountain Lake)

2011-07-28T13:15:00.003-04:00

SOLD

This is a painting I did a while ago, but it is one of my favorites. There was a place on the lake where you could jump off the rocks into the water. It was quite a drop, but everyone loved it; especially kids. A developer bought the property and it is now closed to the public. I painted this when there were rumors about the impending sale because I knew it would be a little part of Smith Mountain Lake history. It will always be known as "The Cliffs" to most of us.

Digging to China

2011-07-24T13:12:00.004-04:00

4.5 x 6.5" Pastel on Wallis Paper, 11.5 x 13.5" Framed

$100 + s/h (Framed)

This is a quick study of two children playing in the sand at Emerald Isle. I find doing this type of painting a great exercise for future reference. I only used a few pastel sticks and was really surprised that I was able to get as much information into the sketch as I did. This leaves me with lots of insight into what another more finished painting would need. It's funny though. I've said this quite a lot, but I really like these spontaneous pieces!

Where's Our Car?

2011-07-21T12:42:00.003-04:00

7x7" Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16x16" Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

It was the gesture that caught my eye. This couple was having an issue with the car rental company at the airport. I've been working on making small strokes work for me. I'm trying to say what I have to say with what I consider a few major dabs and dashes. Surprisingly, it's not easy to focus on fewer details. This really was an exercise in moderation. I will probably do it again, trying different techniques, but really like this one :-)

Boys and Their Toys

2011-07-18T10:51:00.003-04:00

7x7" Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16" Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

I like to paint Jones Barn as often as I can. It's days are probably numbered due to the land here at the Lake being sold off so frequently. I was able to paint it into this scene as these two boys were waiting for "take off." So far, it has been a really busy summer on the water, giving me lots of material for paintings. A good thing!

Lake Couture

2011-07-15T11:36:00.004-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

What fun this was to do! It actually changed midstream. I was painting one of the children who was visiting, but as I worked the face it became an oddball woman :-) I loved her, so expanded on it and left it as is. It makes me smile and that's what it's all about...

Sailboats at Rest, Smith Mountain Lake

2011-07-13T12:28:00.002-04:00

11-1/2 x 8-1/2 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 23-1/2 x 19-1/2 Framed

$200 + s/h (Framed)

This is a typical scene at Smith Mountain Lake. I painted these boats at VISA, a sail club here at the Lake. It was a hot, steamy day, and I might add buggy....but I was able to get a painting out of it with only a few bites!

Catching a Wave

2011-07-10T12:47:00.001-04:00

I caught these two surfers just as they were going out. Painting water and waves is probably one of my most favorite things to do. I feel like I'm sculpting when I push the pastel around, and even though I'm in my studio, I feel the rush of the water and the spray.

Emily Airborne

2011-07-07T17:55:00.004-04:00

SOLD
6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

Watch out below! This is Emily about to take off from the dock. Her one toe was just lifting off as I snapped the picture. She's the cutest little girl with lots of energy and not afraid of the water at all. She might be an Olympian one day, possibly without the water wings :-)

A Perfect Place to Read

2011-07-05T15:15:00.004-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

Another painting from Emerald Isle. I doubt if this woman would have been able to read so peacefully over the July 4th weekend. We really lucked out with the timing of our trip there. Cool breezes off the ocean, sun, salt air....AHHHH!

Great Dane Beach Taxi

2011-06-29T16:49:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

Believe it or not, this was a Great Dane PUPPY! He filled the whole golf cart. He was returning from the beach, and I guess he was tired from all the activity and needed a ride home. What fun painting this quick study!

Chandler's Bees

2011-06-24T17:00:00.004-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

SOLD

Our good friends, the Chandlers, have started a colony of bees on a piece of their property. I couldn't wait until I got to see them in their "designer bee clothes." The whole set up is impressive, and I am extremely excited about getting honey from their hives next year. I took a lot of photos, and plan on doing another painting when I have time. This was a quick study, and I see lots of "should have," "could have" possibilities for the next one. We were there when the light was fading. These studies are so helpful for me, and I hope to go and watch them smoke the bees when the time comes. It doesn't take much to get me excited!!

Chick Magnet

2011-06-19T14:35:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

I love King Charles Spaniels! No one can resist them. This dog was getting lots of female attention from all the people at the Roanoke outdoor art show. I think the gentleman walking him knew that was going to happen :-)

Dock Piling

2011-06-18T12:12:00.003-04:00

17 1/2 x 12" Pastel on Wallis Paper, 27 1/2 x 21 1/2" Framed

$250 + s/h (Framed)

Another older painting. I don't know why I felt the need to paint a dock piling, but I do remember how I liked the light reflecting on the walkway and the post. I can tell I've grown artistically, because when I now look at this painting, I would like to get back in there and make the colors more vivid. They actually were brighter on the original than they appear here, but I would still like to push the lighting effects. I thought it would be a good example of "then" and "now."

Boothbay Harbor Flowers

2011-06-16T12:02:00.003-04:00

SOLD

This is a painting I did on my second trip to Maine. I have always liked this one and thought I'd post it. The flowers in Maine are so beautiful and the colors so vivid. It must be the salt air.

Cupcake Bliss

2011-06-12T14:15:00.002-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

A departure from all of the beach scenes! What can be better than a giant cupcake? This painting took me longer than I thought it would. It looks relatively simple to paint, but it was a struggle to get the paper to look a little transparent, with traces of the cake embedded in it. I put it aside for a few weeks, but finally finished it. I'm glad I didn't give up. Another lesson in patience :-)

Beach Stroll

2011-06-08T19:47:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

Continuing my beach theme, here's another beach occupant getting some exercise. I'm especially happy with the way this painting turned out. The weather here today is in the 90's...hot and humid. I might have to start doing some snow scenes to cool off...

Summer Crush

2011-06-05T12:49:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

Ah...Love at first sight! This is a very wet Cooper, (I've painted her before), and a dog she obviously thought was attractive and was trying to pick up for a summer romance. Actually, the other dog was on leash, but I chose not to add it. Apparently, there is a leash law, and Cooper's significant others got a WARNING from a beach officer in a dune buggy. After that, I think Cooper felt the rest of the trip was a "bummer."

Little Surfer Dude

2011-06-02T10:29:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

He caught me! I was taking his photo as he was walking towards the water with all his "toys." I was on my way off the beach, but would have loved to see him out there in the waves.

Beach Quints

2011-05-29T18:00:00.002-04:00

This was another scene from my beach trip. It was around noon and the sun was overhead, but there was a great breeze. Looking up the beach, there was a blue haze in the distance, and specks of other people on the sand. It couldn't have been a better day! I would imagine this scene would look a lot different today with all the beachgoers there for Memorial Day weekend. I have another painting in mind for this scene. Can't wait!!

Scuba Doo

2011-05-26T14:43:00.002-04:00

SOLD

This is my son and daughter-in-law posing while scuba diving off Mexico. I normally don't like to paint anyone posing, but what I loved about this was the sun on their noses. Sounds crazy, but they both had the same triangular shape when the sun hit their faces. I have to say, this reminded me of the movie "Sleeper." There is a scene where Woody Allen is trying to steal the "Leader's" nose. You have to know the movie to appreciate this. I told you it sounds crazy :-))

The Shell Seeker

2011-05-23T18:02:00.003-04:00

16 x 16 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

We had the most wonderful couple of days at the beach. The weather was perfect, and the beach was relatively empty. This woman was walking with her bag of shells, searching for more. I'm used to the Long Island beaches, which I always thought were the most beautiful in the world. This North Carolina beach, however, gave the Hamptons competition. I came back with lots of ideas for paintings, so the trip couldn't have been better!

Sasha Noel at 15

2011-05-20T22:01:00.002-04:00

NFS

I seem to be on a dog painting mission lately. We had to put our beloved Bichon, Sasha, down a few months ago. I had done a quick study of her while she was still alive and healthy, but this past week, I had the urge to paint her again. I really love this one because it captures her so well. I didn't sketch before I began but jumped right in with simple strokes. Her ear sticking up on the back of the couch is my favorite part. I just came back from a few days at the ocean, and when I pulled up the photos I took, I was surprised at all the dogs I snapped pictures of. It might be time to think about getting a new canine companion :-)

Pugs At Attention!

2011-05-16T11:06:00.003-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

They were definitely thinking "If we wait long enough and look R E A L L Y cute, we'll get a treat." These pugs were so adorable! I was dropping paintings off at "The Grainery" gallery, and they came to greet me as I walked in. There were three of them, but I was only able to get a picture of these two. Looking at them, one cannot help but smile :-)

Spectacular Sunset, Gills Creek

2011-05-13T15:37:00.003-04:00

5 x 8 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 15 x 12 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

This painting is in my new art book "Waterscapes and Landscapes in Pastel." It is the first painting that appears and is one of my favorites. It is hard to even come close to the spectacular sunsets we get here, but I think this one works well.
I want to thank all of you who purchased one of my art books. I get such pleasure putting the joys of life around me into my pastel paintings, and I'm glad that you can take that journey with me.

Mother's Day Cupcakes

2011-05-09T11:05:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

Believe it or not, the best part of getting these cupcakes was painting them! They were really beautiful. Now, I'm off to work out on the treadmill..... :-)

Gypsy Woman

2011-05-08T12:10:00.002-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

This could also be titled "Free Spirit." I saw this woman get on the ferry in Boothbay, and saw her again on Monhegan. She caught my eye immediately because of the way she was dressed. It brought back to mind my time living in the Village (Greenwich Village) in the 60's. So Cool! She must have had on about 10 layers of clothing, and that wonderful turban which I found really hard to capture in such a small painting. She didn't exactly pose when she saw me, but she gave me that great smile. I'd like to paint a larger version of this.

A Corner To Lean Against

2011-05-05T17:45:00.001-04:00

Don't you love when there is a buffet and there is no place to sit or even stand? This gentleman found a corner but had to keep shifting every time someone walked by. You had to balance your food and drink, and eat at the same time. There were so many people at this show that you couldn't even see the art, and the paintings were uneven from being bumped so often. When I took his picture, he gave me a "Do you believe this?" look.

Keeping Them Green

2011-04-30T20:21:00.003-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

I really didn't think this painting was going to work. First of all there was so much green to contend with, and also a lot of dark areas. I like the way the figure came out and might paint a different version another time. I will use this one as a learning experience. Each painting, whether it works or not, serves a purpose.

Photographer's Squat

2011-04-27T18:40:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 s/h (Framed)

I love the way this one came out! A few of us from our art group were plein air painting at Booker T. Washington Park a few weeks ago, and one of my friends was trying to take pictures of the baby sheep in the barn. She was really into her new camera, and I caught her in this pose. The title really should be "Ready, Aim, Shoot!"

The Door's Open. Come in Out of the Rain!

2011-04-23T15:32:00.002-04:00

SOLD

This was one of the first thunderstorms of the season. It rained really hard and then the sky turned a beautiful pink in the distance as the storm passed. The water was running downhill like a stream and the reflections of the lights on the wet pavement was so wonderful. I took a number of shots from the open door of Goose Creek Studio looking up Depot Street in Bedford, VA.

Blue Laundry Day

2011-04-20T13:13:00.002-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

Another wonderful scene from Maine; sunshine, great shadows, beautiful clapboard house. This was a quick study. The blues and greens against the stark white was what interested me and made me want to reach for those yummy pastels. I can't wait until I go back in September. I never get tired of it!

Art Enthusiasts at Goose Creek Studio

2011-04-17T15:39:00.003-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

Isn't it nice to see two people really engrossed and enjoying artwork? For all practical purposes, I could spend my time just watching people do what they do and enjoy myself, but I'm so glad I have a chance to capture them in my artwork. Just a blip of time in the scheme of things. How great is that?!

Reflection

2011-04-15T13:38:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

During my show at Goose Creek Studio, I caught this gentleman really studying one of my paintings called "Painterly Stance." It is an image of a local artist with a white beard. I couldn't wait to paint this! I wonder what was going through his mind while he stood there!

Animal Catering

2011-04-12T12:08:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

My artist friends and I had a great day painting at Booker T. Washington Park. The weather couldn't have been better with full sun making the color of the spring grass glow. I didn't get much painting done, but I did take some really good photos. This particular woman who caught my eye apparently works for the park service and takes care of the animals. When I saw her here she was heading to the pigs with her buckets full. She was leaning to the side with the weight of the pigs' food.

Shoeshine Downtime

2011-04-10T08:46:00.001-04:00

This gentleman has a small corner on the main floor of the local airport. The lighting in the little cubby area on that particular day was really interesting, and it's funny how the most mundane things catch my eye. I could see the painting before I even painted it, which happens all the time, but I was attracted to the shadows of grays, violets, and pinks on the wall, his perfectly ironed shirt collar, the tiny reflection of his glasses, and that great reflection on the top of his head.

Waiting for the Doggy Bag

2011-04-08T11:27:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

It was a really hot, windy day in Asheville and this little dog was sitting patiently, waiting for his "significant people" to finish their lunch. Again, this is a quick study, but sometimes these rough pieces stand on their own. A more polished piece might not have the same feeling of movement.

Sunlight and Shadows - Maine

2011-04-06T19:28:00.004-04:00

7 x 7 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

This is the quintessential Maine. We ate at an outdoor restaurant across from this boathouse. The red and stark white next to those great darks was so perfect, and a painting waiting to happen. I am going to do a larger painting of this scene so that I can incorporate more of the water reflections when I have time. So much to do...so little time...

A Quiet Corner to Read

2011-04-03T19:08:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed
$150 + s/h (Framed)

This man found a coveted corner at Barnes and Noble and loaded up with lots of reading material. He was oblivious to anything going on around him. If I could have set up an easel right there in the store, I would have been so happy. What attracted me to this scene were the colors surrounding him. Also, the smell of Starbucks. Nothing can beat that! YUM....

Lifting Off!

2011-03-31T14:17:00.003-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

A few years ago, friends of ours invited us to go to Abingdon, VA, to see the hot air balloons. They were "chasers" for a friend who participated with his balloon. Their job was to follow his balloon as it drifted and, hopefully, get to the spot where the balloon set down. Everything was mapped out, but it all depended on the wind at any given time. It was always a challenge to get to the right spot, because it might be in a cow pasture, a stream, etc. We were enthralled watching them fill the balloon with hot air, and then seeing them lift off one at a time. It was such a beautiful event to see. I finally got around to painting this.

Dapper, 1920's

2011-03-27T16:57:00.009-04:00

NFS

This is a painting of my two uncles. The photo was taken in the 1920's. My objective was to make it look like the old photo it came from. It isn't a polished painting, but I really love the way it came out.

Window View, Pemaquid Point

2011-03-24T11:45:00.002-04:00

This window was so old and in need of repair, and some of the glass was leaded and some had been replaced, kind of like the human journey....The scene was spectacular but glazed over by grime and grit. The wonderful thing about being an artist is that one sees things that might have been overlooked in everyday life.

Morning Fog, Boothbay

2011-03-21T21:55:00.002-04:00

SOLD

During my second trip to Maine, I woke up early one morning and didn't think I would be able to paint at all due to the fog, so I took a few photos. I put them away for about 6 months and found them by accident when I was cleaning out my studio files. I really liked working on this, but got frustrated half way through. I just kept grabbing pastels and smudging everything. When I stepped back to look, it was like a "WOW" moment. It has since sold. You never know!

Smith Mountain Lake Spring

2011-03-19T17:12:00.002-04:00

13-1/2 x 11 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 23-1/2 x 19-1/2 Framed
$200 + s/h (Framed)

Spring is so beautiful here at Smith Mountain Lake. Right now, the trees are all blooming and everything is getting green again. It's a chance to use my pastel called "Spring Green." I must say, though, that the color doesn't even do justice to nature's spring green. I pass this scene when I walk everyday and never get tired of it. I don't know if any of you artists out there have the same problem I do when painting a scene with lots of greens in it. I find it difficult to get the variation without overuse. I was pleased with the balance on this one.

Red - Super Cool!

2011-03-14T17:44:00.002-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

I had so much fun painting this man. He let me take a few photos, but I really would have liked to take a lot more. He had the most fascinating face...and that wonderful hair! I don't even know if I did him justice. I'll just have to do the painting again at another time, but I do think I captured the amused expression which was what I was going for.

"Hey Buddy, Can You Spare 25 Cents?" Chicken Panhandling

2011-03-13T15:58:00.003-04:00

6 x 6 Pastel on Wallis Paper, 16 x 16 Framed

$150 + s/h (Framed)

These chickens remind me of the panhandlers in New York City. You'd expect them to ask people as they pass by for a handout. I think they've learned that this is a good place to hang out... and they say chickens aren't smart....