Kristina Wentzell Fine Art

TUTORIAL: how to paint a birch wall

2014-09-08T12:08:00.000-04:00

I spent this past weekend doing a room makeover with my daughter. She wanted a change from the last time we updated her room in fifth grade--she is now a junior in high school so this will probably be the last one before she goes off to college.

As we painted the walls we decided to get a bit creative and paint a grove of birches all along one wall. It came out really sweet--so soft and pretty. We did the entire project including painting the walls and ceiling in one weekend.

BIRCH WALL TUTORIAL

materials:

2 colors of wall paint (we used latex eggshell) one color of the base wall color and a lighter shade for the birches. Choose a color a few shades lighter than your wall color for a subtle effect or white. We ended up just using white ceiling paint.
1-2 rolls blue painters tape--1 inch rolls (wider will also work).
mini paint roller and brush
small paint brushes for trim work--1-inch or so
utility blade
cutting matt

directions:

Paint your walls a base color of your choosing. We used a soft blue-gray color Behr "misty surf" and let it dry. Once the walls are dry you can begin taping the birches. I started with the largest tree running the tape from the bottom of the wall all the way up to the ceiling. I didn't worry about making the trees perfectly straight but let them curve slightly. Make sure that the trees are wider at the bottom and narrower at the top. On the largest tree, I added a knot, rounding the tape slightly into a bulge in the tree trunk. I also added a branch on the largest one.

I then added the remaining trees around the large one--varying the widths on all. Some trees overlapped the large tree branch. In this case, using the utility knife carefully cut away the tape in front of the branches.

Now, you are ready to add the bark rings on all of the trees. Tear off long strips of tape and lay them on the cutting matt; now using the utility knife cut the tape into curving rings in various lengths. You can also tear the tape with your fingers. Notice that the bark rings all curve in the same direction. Have some rings come off the right side and some off the left. Try not to make the rings too regularly spaced. Add the knots in in a circular pattern.

Stand back and view the birches from a distance making sure each tree looks visually pleasing. When you are satisfied go over all the tape with your fingers--pressing down to made sure the tape is firmly sealed to the wall.

Now you are ready to start painting! Using the mini roller and either the white or color of your choosing carefully paint in the trees. If you go over the outside edge of the tape--wipe it off right away or you can do touch-ups after you are done. Use a small brush to paint up to the bottom and top edges of the wall.

Let it dry and repeat with at least one or two more coats.

This is what it will look like after you have painted all the trees white.

Wait for the paint to dry before removing the tape. This is the tricky part! You have to carefully remove the tape so that you don't rip up the under painting. Even so, some will likely come up here and there and you can touch that up with at the end with a small paint brush. Starting at the top, gently pull the tape off at a 45 degree angle. Go slow! This is a bit tedious but take your time with this part. You will have to pick out the smaller pieces of tape with your finger nail or the tip of a utility blade to get them started at the corner.

Finished wall.

Happy daughter. :-)

LEARNING TO SEE: guest post by Luann Udell

2014-06-11T12:19:00.001-04:00

Guest post by Luann Udell.

Luann writes for FineArtViews and The Crafts Report magazine. She's a double-juried member of the prestigious League of New Hampshire Craftsmen (fiber & art jewelry). Her work has appeared in books, magazines and newspapers across the country and she is a published writer. She's blogged since 2002 about the business side--and the spiritual inside--of art. She says, "I share my experiences so you won't have to make ALL the same mistakes I did...."

LEARNING TO SEE: An Art-Making Class with Kristina Wentzell

Last night I sat down to an easel for the first time in 45 years.

And I created a painting that I LIKED for the first time in my life!

How did I get here?? It’s a miracle!

I was part of Kristina Wentzell’s painting party at the “Art, Wine & Fun Night at Walpole Mountain View Winery” in Walpole, NH. (You can see more of Kristina’s themed painting parties here.)

Kristina started these painting workshops awhile back. Known for her own vibrantly colored, cheerful landscapes and still lifes, she works with groups to introduce them to the pleasures of painting.

Kristina showed us how to recreate one of her original paintings—in this class, a view of a vineyard. (The best part of this class? You could look out the window in the sunroom/tasting room where we worked, and see similar mountains and vineyards!)

Our workspace at the Walpole Mountain View Vineyard. As lovely as Kristina's painting!

She broke it down into a step-by-step process, guiding us all the way. When we were ready to get to work, we sat ourselves in the sunporch/tasting room, with gorgeous views of the vineyards on three sides. Easels were already set up and ready to go with a primed canvas, along with brushes (two), paint palettes (a paper plate with the eight colors we’d need) and a waterproof tablecloth (which was useful almost immediately!)

Here's where it all starts. Orange!

Kristina showed a finished sample of her painting—the one we would recreate-- along with versions of each step. As she explained each technique, she demonstrated on each appropriate sample painting.

We started with a light charcoal sketch, which allowed us to play with our compositions until we got one we liked. Then we mixed our first wash of color and painted over our sketched lines. We continued to mix the colors Kristina introduced, adding layer after layer of hues, moving into different areas of the canvas.

I do like my mountains!

As we worked, Kristina came by with encouragement and suggestions. When I got stuck, she was right there, guiding me gently along. When I ran out of green (about three times!), her assistant Kat, a Keene State College art student, was right there with the paint tube.

Kristina worked with everyone, to make sure no one felt left behind!

The hardest part? I was surprised by what I thought would be the easiest step—mixing colors. Kristina showed us how to work the pigments together, creating a little “mound” of color. It’s actually harder than I thought to mix pigments into such a small, neat “pile”. I tend to mush it all over, which not only takes up a lot of “real estate” on my plate, as Kristina put it, but also makes the paint dry faster. I believe I’m the only person who had to ask for an extra plate. The result was, I had to constantly stop to mix more color, which meant a subtly-different color mix each time. Hmmmmm…..I’m gonna have to practice that!

Still need to master the "little mound" method of mixing paint. I used up all my "real estate" on the plate, as Kristina put it.

I was graciously given a second plate.

The second hardest part? Like any work of creativity, what we make doesn’t look like much until we’re completely finished. It’s important to keep that in mind at all times. It takes patience and confidence to accept each step as “what it is”, moving on to the next step, and the next. Until finally, we’re ready to tweak here and there….and voila! A miracle—a change in perpective. Instead of cartoonish drawings and blobs of color, a lovely landscape emerges. And there is our finished painting. I carefully signed “LU” to the bottom corner, not trusting my skill at painting my whole name.

The beauty of this process is that I never felt I’d “screwed up”—at least, not irreparably so. Sometimes I made course corrections. Other times I shrugged and said, “No, it doesn’t look exactly like Kristina’s.”

I do like my trees!

Because it shouldn’t look exactly like Kristina’s! As each person bravely held up her piece, (and the admiring “ooohs” and “ahhhhs” started) it was so obvious to all of us….

We had all painted “the same thing” in a style that was uniquely ours.

All of our color choices were similar—but also very different. Some of us had limned gently rolling hills. Others had mountains that seemed to dance. Some of us had painted a soft sky, while others had skies that rolled and glowed.

We had all created a version of Kristina’s painting. And we had all created something very different and unique.

My grapevines looked a little like lettuce, so I went rogue and added some squiggly details to them. They still look like lettuce. But like artistic lettuce.

I’ve learned the power of good framing. Tomorrow I’ll mosey on down to Creative Encounters in downtown Keene. I know Karen Lyle and her staff will help me choose the perfect frame for this piece, at a price that’s affordable for me. It will join the other works in my collection of new and vintage landscapes, painted by talented professionals and eager neophytes. (Of which I’m firmly the latter.)

I had a wonderful evening out with delightful people. I sipped local wines, munched on incredibly delicious cheese and met up with old friends. I now own an original painting by Luann Udell for the price of a few good bottles of wine.

And I came home with an incredible sense of accomplishment and joy. I have lost my own fear of painting. I’m not giving up my day job to become a painter. But I now see the attraction of the process. And I’m delighted with my modest results.

Thank you, Kristina!

Kristina Wentzell featured in Studios Magazine: Summer 2014

2014-06-03T14:08:00.001-04:00

Kristina Wentzell is in the current edition of Studios Magazine (Summer 2014) that is on news stands now. Take a look inside for a special feature on what inspires Kristina.

Folks in the Keene area can pick up a copy locally at Creative Encounters at 18 Main Street, Keene NH.

Fiddleheadin'

2014-05-06T11:00:00.005-04:00

reposted from 5/12/2012

what to do in mud season:

Early May in Rangeley, Maine is mud season.

The north country doesn’t really have spring like the rest of us…the long, cold winter up there sort of just segues into a season of fog, chilly raw days, and mud. Lots of mud. It’s a bit early for fishing, much too cold to swim, all the locals get out of town to Florida for the month, and every restaurant in town closes down.

It’s real quiet.

On the drive in to town, in the last 50 miles or so we passed not one car on the state highway.

However, we did see 4 moose.

So, when my family went to Rangeley this week for a few days, our entertainment options were a bit limited. There is one thing to do this time of year that is an annual rite of passage.

Fiddleheading.

Fiddleheads are the curled fronds of a just emerging fern, harvested as a vegetable. Nearly everyone in town has their secret fiddleheadin’ spot. They tend to grow in wet areas along the rivers.

My grandfather took me fiddleheading when I was younger. He was a quintessential old Maine guide, tough and woods savvy. He always knew of a good spot to find ‘em. He picked fiddleheads by the gallon and stored them for the year. He would eat them boiled, steamed, canned, fried, in pancakes and even pickled. Some studies show that fiddleheads eaten in large quantities can be toxic but he lived to be 99 years old--so much for that theory.

So, this week we went off to that same spot by the Dead River my grandfather took me to go fiddleheading. It was still a bit early and the fiddleheads were on the small side. We were only able to scrounge a few. My two little charges were skeptical, or shall we say, not as familiar with the delights of fiddleheads. But that’s okay, they’ll get there...fiddleheads are a learned appreciation.

For those of you on my mailing list, you might have noticed the delicate, curled fronds on the back of every postcard. Now you know the story.

New tutorials and new Art, Wine & Fun Nights!

2014-04-29T09:42:00.003-04:00

Spring 2014 Schedule for Art, Wine & Fun Nights

Art, Wine & Fun Nights puts the emphasis on FUN!

Art Nights are stress-free & casual where beginners are encouraged. Kristina will guide you step by step through the process of creating your own work of art. All materials are provided and everyone will go home with a painting they can be proud of. Beginners are encouraged!

Click here to register.

May 13th: The Marina in Brattleboro ~ Beach Day

May 15th: Kathryn's Florist & Gifts in Winchester, NH ~ tba

May 20th: Margaritas in Keene ~ summer bouquet

May 21st: Ramunto's in Keene ~ summer bouquet

May 27th: The Marina in Brattleboro ~ scarlet meadow

May 28th: Ramunto's in Keene ~ sunflowers (full!)

June 3rd: The Marina in Brattleboro ~ Paris at night

June 10th: Walpole Mountain View Winery in Walpole ~ vineyard landscape

June 11th: Ramunto's in Keene ~ birds on a wire

June 17th: The Marina in Brattleboro ~ birds on a wire

Click here to register.

Keene Art Tour--SPRING edition!

2014-04-24T10:30:00.002-04:00

Keene Art Tour: SPRING edition! May 3rd & 4th 2014 10am to 5pm

87 Ashuelot Street Keene NH

The Keene Art Tour is coming soon with a new SPRING edition! Grab this map and come by car, come on foot, come on bikes, (unicycles? pogo sticks?)...we don't care. Just come! Spring will have arrived (we promise!) and the studios will be spiffed up and ready for you.

You can find me at stop #2 (87 Ashuelot Street) where I will be joined by guest artist Melinda LaBarge and her fabulous, colorful Nuno felt scarves, coats & pillows (Mother's Day gifts anyone?)

The Happy Camper Mobile Art Gallery--my 1966 DeCamp Travel Trailer converted to mobile art gallery-- will also be making her spring debut. Stop by and see what's new in my studio, the camper, meet the studio kitties and enjoy a glass of wine or two.

PS: Visitors will have a chance to enter to win two tickets to one my upcoming Art, Wine & Fun Nights. :-)

Art, Wine & Fun Nights

2014-03-12T22:23:00.000-04:00

Hey, Monadnock area folks!

Looking for something fun to do with your friends? Check out my Art, Wine & Fun Nights at area restaurants and businesses. Beginners are welcome and a good time is always had by all. A great mid-week stress reduction plus you go home with some art for your walls.

What could be better?

Here are is the schedule of upcoming events. Register online here.

March 19th (rescheduled from March 12th): Ramunto's in Keene ~ poppies

March 27th: Vital Essence Wellness Center in Keene ~ beach day

April 1st: The Marina in Brattleboro, VT ~ dragonfly

April 15th: The Marina in Brattleboro, VT ~ poppies

April 16th: Ramunto's in Keene ~ sunflowers

April 29th: Sunflowers Restaurant in Jaffrey ~dragonfly

April 30th: Raunto's in Keene ~ Paris at night

Sign up here or call Kristina for more info 603-903-5902603-903-5902.

PAINTING PROGRESSION: Bloom

2014-02-16T14:58:00.001-05:00

Here's another painting progression in photos-- Bloom.

My aim was to pump up the color vibrancy even more than usual on this piece to create a magical realism feel. Inspired by memories of being a very small girl standing among the tall stands of sunflowers & delphiniums in the family garden.

"Bloom" diptych, 40x40 inches, acrylic on canvas. ©2013 Kristina Wentzell

in home Art Parties in the Monadnock Region

2014-02-01T18:06:00.000-05:00

Looking for a fun night out?

How about hosting an art party for your friends right in your home? Keene artist, Kristina Wentzell now offers Art Parties in the Monadnock area. “Art parties are fun and relaxing” says Wentzell “they allow friends to share laughs, some wine, and really get into the creative spirit. And the best part is that everyone goes home with a piece of art they can be proud of.”

Art Parties are geared towards all levels from beginners on up. Kristina will come to your home and provide all the art supplies and materials, three hours of instruction, and set-up and clean-up. Each person will receive an original piece of art to take home.

Following Kristina’s step by step guides and instructions, participants create bright, colorful flower paintings. “I try to keep my teaching light and hands-on—I especially love working with people who think they ‘can’t do art’ and seeing the look of surprise and joy on their faces when they create something beautiful. Usually it’s because someone long ago in their past told them they were ‘no good at art’ and they mistakenly believed them.”

Choose from one of the offered tutorials or choose one of the floral paint/collage parties.

Go HERE for more information.

Art, Wine & Fun Night at Ramunto's in Keene

2014-01-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

Looking for something fun and different to chase

away the winter blues?

Spend a night sharing some laughs and wine with your friends while creating something beautiful.

Go HERE to register.

Art, Wine & Fun Night puts the emphasis on FUN! Art Nights are stress-free & casual where beginners are encouraged. Kristina will guide you step by step through the process of creating your own work of art. All materials are provided and everyone will go home with a painting they can be proud of.

Schedule:
5-6pm happy hour meet and greet (drink and food specials)
6-9pm art making

Artwork
Kristina will provide step by step instructions on creating a springtime bouquet in a green vase. The poppies, cosmos & delphinium will surely get you in the mood for springtime. This is a made in two parts: first the acrylic painting and then collage elements are added.

What is included
-full set up and clean up
-all materials & art supplies
- 3 hours of instruction
-everyone goes home with an 11x14 inch painting
-cost is $50 per person (food & drink not included)

FAQ
What if I’ve never painted before?
Beginners are encouraged! I will guide you step by step on how to create a beautiful piece of art. I strongly believe that everyone is capable of making art—come relax and enjoy the creative process.

What if I want to paint something different?
I would never want to squash anyone’s creativity! While I do encourage beginners to follow along with my instructions, if you would like to paint something else you are welcome to do so! I am still happy to provide critique and advice if you like.

Go HERE to register or call Kristina at 603-903-5902

Stay tuned for upcoming classes.

Welcoming the new year

2014-01-21T14:40:00.003-05:00

Welcome 2014!

I have lots of things planned for my studio this year from returning to many of my favorite outdoor art shows (hello Portland & Newburyport) to expanding the very successful Keene Art Tour to TWO open studios and of course to art making.

There will be lots of that too.

Stay tuned for updates on Art Parties, a new series based on the beloved Victorian language of flowers, and more.

Oh, and you can enter for a chance to win art every month!

Pop on over to my Facebook page for all the details. The next giveaway will be announced in early February.

art from December's giveaway contest

Open studio Holiday Art Sale

2013-12-03T10:36:00.002-05:00

100 Paintings for $100 or Less Holiday Art Sale

Saturday, December 7th 2013
10am to 4pm

This is my last open studio of the year! I'm cleaning out, painting, baking, & decorating up a storm. There will be many original oils and mixed media paintings priced at $100 or less (get a preview here). Also prints on canvas and paper, note cards and large paintings at 50% off.

December 7th, 10am to 4pm, 87 Ashuelot Street, Keene NH

Stained Glass Poppy Votive Tutorial

2013-12-01T19:53:00.000-05:00

How to make a stained glass poppy votive

Here's a fun little project that would make a lovely teacher or hostess gift for the holidays.

SUPPLIES:

glass jar (recycled or purchased)
modge podge--gloss finish
scissors
paint brush (1/2 inch flat brush or similar)
tissue paper in red, orange, light blue, navy blue, 3 shades of green (lighter is better)
small candle

1. Using red tissue paper, cut out approximately a dozen small ovals about 1.5 inches or so in diameter and several elongated triangles as pictured. These will be the poppy flowers and buds. Using the paint brush, brush a thin layer of Modge Podge on the glass--it will go on white and dry clear. Lay down one of the ovals and paint over the tissue with the Modge Podge. Make sure to completely cover the tissue paper, going over the edges and smoothing out any bumps in the tissue and any globs of Modge Podge. Arrange the poppy flowers and buds going around the glass about half way up. Some can be a bit higher, some lower. Vary the arrangement--some flowers can overlap a bit, etc.

2. Using the light blue tissue paper, rip it into small pieces, roughly an inch or so in size. Going around the glass, using the same technique start laying in the sky. Make sure to completely cover the top of the glass all the way up to the rim, overlapping blue over blue as you go. Carefully cover the spaces around the poppy flowers with blue going about half way down the glass.

3. Using the 2 lightest shades of green tissue paper, rip it into small pieces as you did with the blue. Cover the bottom half of the glass, going in and around the poppy flowers making sure to go all the way to the bottom of the glass making sure there are no clear spaces left.

4. Using the dark shade of green (or two if you have them) cut up long, skinny stems. Going around the glass, place a stem for every poppy flower and bud, making sure stem goes all the way to the bottom of the glass. Curve the stems or cross one over the other.

5. Using red and orange tissue papers, rip up some small pieces. Going around the glass, add some extra layers to some of the poppies and buds with red and orange. Think of it as painting with tissue paper--these layers will add extra dimension and shading when the light shines through.

6. Using the navy blue tissue, rip up some tiny oval center shapes and place one on each poppy.

7. Go over the entire glass, smoothing out any globs of Modge Podge and painting down any bits of tissue what aren't smooth. Make sure you have covered the entire glass with color.

8. Let it dry and you are ready to place a small candle inside.

dreaming of the sea

2013-11-21T11:52:00.000-05:00

I woke up to an 18 degree morning up here in the cold Northeast. It's only November but I'm already dreaming of the sea. Here's a little painting from my 100 painting sale depicting a favorite beach in Western Australia.

Where are you dreaming of ?


the best beach

Sea glass creation from my Maine beaches collection.

Visit the 100 Painting Sale.

4th annual 100 Painting Sale

2013-11-14T00:13:00.005-05:00

4th annual 100 Paintings for $100 or Less Sale

November in my studio means one thing: 100 paintings.

It's a lot of work and things always get a little nutty but I like a challenge and pushing myself a bit. Something interesting artistically always comes out of it--this year I have been creating a lot of new pieces with collage elements.

For the fourth year in a row, I am offering 100 Painting for the Holidays. Prices are affordable, with most $100 or less. New this year are prints on paper and canvas, mixed media paintings, note cards and larger paintings.

November is also lung cancer awareness month. And since lung cancer has affected my family in a big way I like to give back by donating a portion of November's sales to the Lung Cancer Alliance.

The sale runs November 15th through December 16th online or at my studio. Stop by on Saturday, December 7th, 10am or 4pm for my Holiday Sale Open House.

100 Painting Sale
November 15th -December 16th

view the paintings here

open studio--in pictures

2013-11-04T15:41:00.000-05:00

If you didn't make it--here's a quick peek at the 2013 Keene Art Tour. The place was hopping all weekend. Looking forward to doing it again next year!

dining room converted to studio--with beautiful southern exposure

Milo--the official ambassador and greeter for the KAT

art supplies!

what was on my easel during the tour

painting finished!

refreshment table and "the upper meadow"--this is painting featured in the Keene Sentinel article

me with my talented guest artists--Tanya & Melinda

fiber artist Melinda LaBarge

flowers & birds nest corner

some of my new acrylic & collage creations

pottery by Tanya Rudenjak

painting in progress

some of Melinda's fiber creations

pottery and "a prayer in spring"

my beautiful Melinda scarf matches my painting

not shy about color here at my home/studio

peonies

chickens--originals & prints

Tanya and her pottery

"bloom" diptych & chunky floral prints

"facing the sun"

Keene Art Tour

2013-11-01T17:37:00.002-04:00

The 2nd Annual Keene Art Tour is this weekend. I'm pleased to announce that two talented artists will be joining me in my studio: fiber artist Melinda LaBarge and potter Tanya Rudenjak.
We will have many items priced under $100--just in time for holiday shopping. Brochures and tour maps are available online or at my studio.

Keene Art Tour

November 2nd & 3rd, 2013

10am to 5pm

87 Ashuelot Street, Keene NH

Check out an article about our tour in the Keene Sentinel.

a HALLOWEEN painting progression: the scream

2013-10-29T10:15:00.001-04:00

I decided to follow up last year's Girl with a Pearl Earring costume with Munch's the Scream. Of course, this requires the user to have their face perpetually forced into full-on-open-mouth screaming posture--but it's all in the name of Halloween. Right?

Read on below for how to make this a two person costume and some other amazing art-themed Halloween ideas.

Start by finding a large size picture frame--large enough to cover your head and upper body (not too big though--you'll have to carry it around all night). Cut a piece of cardboard or heavy poster board to fit. Paint or gesso it white.

Using the Munch's the Scream as reference, draw in the basic composition.

paint in the sky

the dark outlines

Carefully cut out the face shape with an x-acto knife. Attach inside frame.

viola---(thanks to dear husband for modeling)

And for a two person costume---I present the Art Heist:

Check out this amazing rendition of Klimt's "the kiss" and a Roy Lichtenstein painting come to life (with tutorial).

open studio--in pictures

2013-10-26T10:58:00.000-04:00

A virtual tour from the Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour open studio. If you missed it--check out my schedule to see upcoming events.

a corner of my studio: display of floral paintings and a favorite from my birds' nest collection.

my living room is open on the tour--this time featuring large floral paintings and wee prints

my new collection of songbird prints on canvas

my studio--spiffed up and looking shiny for the tour

artwork spills out onto the breezeway

the Happy Camper Mobile Art Gallery set up in my driveway

the Happy Camper!

new work from my painting demonstration

my tools--I love looking at these

a vintage 1966 camper (all original) converted to "art gallery on wheels"

the foyer featured meadow themed landscapes

cards, prints, paintings, and a new work in progress for the open studio

chunky sunflower prints

chunky bachelor buttons

say Hi to the girls--Daffodil, Marigold, Buttercup, Edith, Esther & Minnie Pearl

chicken and owl prints

Milo--my official greeter for open studio

"a prayer in spring" painting

new acrylic/collage paintings

large triptych of the White Mountains in my studio

my other studio kitty

PAINTING PROGRESSION: lupine meadow--a painting in one minute

2013-10-07T00:30:00.000-04:00

I mixed things up a bit this week and created a short video of "lupine meadow" coming to life.

A painting in one minute.

To see more like this, click on "progressions" on the right sidebar under labels.

available for purchase here

Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour--fine art in the Monadnock region, NH

2013-10-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

Save the date! My studio will be open on October 12th & 13th, 2013 for the Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour.

The Monadnock region of southwestern New Hampshire is fast becoming the place to be for fall foliage and fine art tours. On Columbus weekend alone, over 100 artists open their studio tours to the public and invite them to an inside peek at the New England tradition of fine art and craft at its best.

Check out the latest issue of Monadnock Living to read a description of all the tours in the region.

The Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour features 20+ artists in 9 towns. Come experience a glorious weekend of fine art and fall foliage. Artists open their studios for a self-guided tour showcasing sculpture, pottery, painting, fiber, jewelry, drawing, photography, glass, wood turning and furniture. The backdrop is the peak autumn foliage of the rolling hills, mountains, and quaint towns of the Monadnock region. Come for the day or spend the weekend.

Stop by my home/studio and the Happy Camper Mobile Art Gallery. I will have my vibrant colorful paintings new and old on display, affordable prints, and greeting cards and happy camper t-shirts too. Come meet my studio kitties (and say hi to the chickens out back in their extra fancy coop cottage) and enjoy some treats and a glass or wine (or two!)

Pick up a tour map at my studio or print one online.

Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour

October 12th & 13th, 2013

87 Ashuelot Street

Keene, New Hampshire

10am to 5pm

PAINTING PROGRESSION: happy camper at the height of land

2013-09-30T00:30:00.000-04:00

This next painting progression has two of my favorites in it--the Happy Camper Mobile Art Gallery and the Height of Land. Located in Maine on Route 17 between Rumford and Oquossoc--the Height of Land offers incomparable views of the lakes and mountains of western Maine. I've stopped here every year since I was a child on my way to visit my family in Rangeley.

The snappy green car pulling the Happy Camper is wishful thinking--I actually pull it with a silver minivan.

PAINTING PROGRESSIONS: poppy profusion

2013-09-23T00:30:00.000-04:00

Poppies! That riot of warm reds and oranges that makes everyone smile.

This is a more stylized version of poppies than my other paintings. I really enjoy playing with the negative shapes that the stems, pods, and blossoms make as the weave together in one piece.

I start with a charcoal drawing on the painted canvas so I can rework the composition until I get it just right. Next step is to paint in the lines with a dark color--my favorite is a mixture of ultramarine and cadmium orange.

Go here to view available paintings

SERIES FEATURE: poppies

2013-09-19T15:09:00.000-04:00

I sing the Poppy! The frail snowy weed! The flower of Mercy! that within its heart Doth keep "a drop serene" for human need, A drowsy balm for every bitter smart. For happy hours the Rose will idly blow-- The Poppy hath a charm for pain and woe. - Mary A Barr

So true! I paint poppies to help get me through these long, dark northern winters. Poppies are happy and vibrant and can't help but make one think of bright days and sunshine.

Go here to view available paintings

PAINTING PROGRESSION: blue ridge

2013-09-16T00:30:00.000-04:00

Continuing with my series of progression demonstrations...I present "blue ridge"

Inspired by my hike along the Appalachian Trail with my sweetie, I wanted to this piece to be very simple in composition as I tried to capture the cool and serene landscape of those southern mountains that seem to go on forever in an endless sea of blue.

Go here to view available paintings

Kristina Wentzell Fine Art

TUTORIAL: how to paint a birch wall

LEARNING TO SEE: guest post by Luann Udell

LEARNING TO SEE: An Art-Making Class with Kristina Wentzell

Kristina Wentzell featured in Studios Magazine: Summer 2014

Fiddleheadin'

what to do in mud season:

New tutorials and new Art, Wine & Fun Nights!

Spring 2014 Schedule for Art, Wine & Fun Nights

May 13th: The Marina in Brattleboro ~ Beach Day

May 15th: Kathryn's Florist & Gifts in Winchester, NH ~ tba

May 20th: Margaritas in Keene ~ summer bouquet

May 21st: Ramunto's in Keene ~ summer bouquet

May 27th: The Marina in Brattleboro ~ scarlet meadow

May 28th: Ramunto's in Keene ~ sunflowers (full!)

June 3rd: The Marina in Brattleboro ~ Paris at night

June 10th: Walpole Mountain View Winery in Walpole ~ vineyard landscape

June 11th: Ramunto's in Keene ~ birds on a wire

June 17th: The Marina in Brattleboro ~ birds on a wire

Click here to register.

Keene Art Tour--SPRING edition!

Art, Wine & Fun Nights

PAINTING PROGRESSION: Bloom

in home Art Parties in the Monadnock Region

Art, Wine & Fun Night at Ramunto's in Keene

Welcoming the new year

Welcome 2014!

Open studio Holiday Art Sale

100 Paintings for $100 or Less Holiday Art Sale

Saturday, December 7th 201310am to 4pm

Stained Glass Poppy Votive Tutorial

How to make a stained glass poppy votive

dreaming of the sea

Visit the 100 Painting Sale.

4th annual 100 Painting Sale

4th annual 100 Paintings for $100 or Less Sale

100 Painting Sale November 15th -December 16th view the paintings here

open studio--in pictures

Keene Art Tour

a HALLOWEEN painting progression: the scream

open studio--in pictures

PAINTING PROGRESSION: lupine meadow--a painting in one minute

Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour--fine art in the Monadnock region, NH

PAINTING PROGRESSION: happy camper at the height of land

PAINTING PROGRESSIONS: poppy profusion

SERIES FEATURE: poppies

PAINTING PROGRESSION: blue ridge

Saturday, December 7th 2013
10am to 4pm

100 Painting Sale
November 15th -December 16th

view the paintings here