Soulful Studios...More Than Just Pet Portraits

Three Years

2009-10-25T12:23:00.005-04:00

"Big Sky"
acrylic on panel
6x9
$250

"Conference"
acrylic on panel
5x7
sold

"Above the Bale"
acrylic on panel
5x7
$185

"Scally"
graphite on archival paper
11x14
Soulful Studios Custom Pet Portrait

The "Artists at Work" open studio tour was a success. Many new people found their way to my studio and my work found new homes. Brady the Studio Dog improved his greeting skills and by the end strangers no longer upset him...much. I was much less stressed this time as we weren't putting the door handle on as patrons were walking up the path to see my art. No, we were ready well before opening and I have to admit I was pleased with the display. My oils and acrylics look very consistent and cohesive and the reception to my work was quite positive. More and more I feel that I am going in the right direction. No longer do I wonder if I'm just spinning my wheels. Rarely do I feel I should be doing something else more practical. Every single time that doubt flashes through my mind, an admirer of my work tells me what my art means to them and I know I'm home.

This is a far cry from where I was exactly three years ago. I close my eyes and I can still see the group of doctors standing over me telling me I had Lymphoma. My chest still aches when I cough or laugh but the memory hurts more deeply than the surface pain. Just now do I think I should cut my hair shorter because it is "too long". The wounds are all still so fresh. It seems like yesterday. However, if I take a deep breath and allow myself to relax and enjoy my new world, I can see I've indeed traveled far. In October of 2006 I learned how little control I had over my life. The universe was letting me know it had its own plans. Reading through my old posts of that time I realize how I covered over what i was really feeling and kept the brave face. Maybe there was no time for fear and pain. Maybe that is just how it goes.

Now I'm sitting here cancer free and I know how lucky I am. It doesn't always go that way. For some time I felt a pressure to make my life count for something. Once again I sought control. Finally it hit me a few weeks ago that I had not yet surrendered to the path of just living. Your life counts just as you are no matter what you do. You can make it a more pleasant experience by giving thanks and going with the flow and living in a healthy manner. However, no matter what you do there are no guarantees.

Sure, I believe what I write but the human in me still fights it sometimes. I recognize those times by my stress level or fits of anger. During those times I try to reset myself and SEE what is really around me.

What is around me in 2009? A beautiful house on two acres surround by farmers fields and beautiful sunsets is where I call home. Children that think I'm pretty and smart (at least for now) greet me when I awake. A charming little dog keeps me company as I create in the most beautiful studio a girl could imagine. My art is in demand and painting fast enough is my biggest worry. My family is healthy for the most part and we all enjoy a good ribbing. Most of all, a man, my husband, lets me know every single day that I am the most loved woman there ever was, even the ugly parts of me.

Yeah, I think by just living a lot has happened. In three years I've gone through chemo and radiation, tackled the lingering health problems that come with such treatment, got engaged, sold my home, planned a wedding, got married, built a studio, rebuilt my art business and won an art exhibition. Wow.

It's been a hell of a journey. It often felt like an uphill battle. It was harder for me than I'd like to admit. It was worth it.

What will I write three years from today?

Artists at Work - Tour of 18 Salem County Studios and Galleries

2009-10-05T11:04:00.005-04:00

Above are just a few of the things I'm working on in the studio.

October 10th and 11th from 10-6 each day, Soulful Studios as well as 17 other galleries and studios will be open to the public. This focus of this tour is artists in their working environment demonstrating their process. I will be working on my recent dog portrait in graphite as well as a large oil painting. New works I've recently completed will be on display and for sale as well as select prints and cards. As always, light refreshments will be served and plenty of good conversation will be offered.

This is a great way to spend a weekend and there is no charge for admission. There are plenty of places to explore. For example, you won't have to go but one mile from this studio to see the beautiful water colors by Alex Alampi. He has released a new stunning print and will be demonstrating his technique as well.

To everyone that congratulated me on my recent award, I say THANK YOU! I feel the support from you all and I appreciate it very much. I apologize for the lag in posts. It's getting harder and harder to keep up with talking about art when there is so much art to make. That's a good thing.

Though I've been putting less information out on the internet it seems the word about my art is still traveling fast. In the past two weeks I've received numerous calls about commissions and requests for paintings that were already sold. It seems the busier you are the more people want work from you. Then as luck would have it a friend and patron was kind enough to mention my work in her blog that is created for Horse and Rider Magazine. Sandy is an expert on weight loss and healthy living by way of experience and she is very inspirational. She included a painting she purchased from me years ago on her September 15th post. (Thank you Sandy!) This is just a few examples of what has been happening.

So, please come and visit this weekend and check out my new work, have some munchies and chat with me. I look forward to seeing you all. Until next time...

Gallery 50 Success

2009-09-05T12:17:00.004-04:00

September 4, 2009

Gallery 50

"Family" by Lori Levin

Awards: Best of Show and People's Choice

Judges: Glenn Rudderow and Judy Price

Mexico Madness

2009-09-04T13:19:00.003-04:00

It's madness I tell you! I have a "thing" about using animals in photos like this, as I doubt that toucan really liked hanging out on the beach all day with strangers having his photo taken. However, I think the margaritas went to my head and I not only posed for this photo with my dear husband but also bought the picture! On top of that I was talked into having my picture taken with a donkey named "Poncho" too. Between everyone being so polite and cheerful and the tequila, I think I could have been talked into buying a heating system in Mexico.

In any case, Joel and I finally had our honeymoon and we enjoyed every minute. We won't discuss the food poisoning on the way home but the actual trip was fabulous. Joel mentioned over and over how beautiful our world is and how much we take for granted. The crystal clear water and the beautiful sites make you realize that these things are so precious. Someday I may go back and I'd like to make some small paintings when I'm there. This trip was purely for romance.

Speaking of painting, I am going to Gallery 50 tonight to see what award I won. They used my work for their announcement card, both paintings I entered already sold and now I am getting some sort of prize as well. Talk about getting the most bang for my buck out of that entry! I was excited to learn that Alex Alampi will be winning an award for the beautiful marsh landscape that he entered too. The artists of Harrisonville Lake Road are doing great.

I will post the results of the exhibition soon and the start of my next two commission pieces. Both are graphite dog portraits that I'm very excited to start. Come back to Soulful Studios to find out what happened.

Unsettled in Supawna

2009-08-20T10:37:00.005-04:00

"Godspeed"

acrylic on panel

6x12

Sold

The "Nature & the Landscape" juried exhibition at Gallery 50 is coming up and I just completed this piece to be one of my entries. This is a scene from Supawna Meadows in Pennsville where I used to live. I've been under pressure to get thing done for commissions and shows and I had a feeling of being unsettled. I think the painting shows this. The painting of the geese in my previous blog will be used for the reception cards for the show. I'm very honored.

I see a growth in my work that I can only attribute to the beautiful light in my studio and the support from my husband. He has great suggestions and knows how to talk me down from the ledge when I've had it with a painting. Nobody has ever been able to do that consistently for me. I'm thankful.

I now have two new graphite dog portraits to work on as well as four oil commissions. Soulful Studios is very much busy with pet portraits and fine art paintings. There seems to be only time for making art now and not much time for talking about it.

2009-08-12T12:56:00.007-04:00

My art was used for the reception card! How exciting is that?! Will I be seeing you there?

"Family 1"

acrylic on panel

6x9

Email to purchase.

"Family 2"

Acrylic on panel

6x12

Sold

"Family 3"

acrylic on panel

6x12

Email to purchase.

This Friday, August 14th from 6-9 PM, First Impressions Art Studio and Gallery will be hosting another artists' reception. I will have 5 new pieces there on display and it should be a good time. Please come out and see these pieces in person as I don't think the web does them justice.

I loved working on these geese paintings. While I did them I researched geese and their behaviors and habits. Who needs television when there is such drama in the animal kingdom! I know a lot about dogs and horses but now I think I can tell a duck from a goose! Just kidding, I was never that bad. However, I learn a lot from my work and it keeps it all very exciting.

I have so much more to say but right now I must get to my next dog portrait and a couple of custom commissions. Somewhere in there I must squeeze in time for my entry into the next Gallery 50 juried exhibition. I am running out of time so I musn't daudle! Come back soon and check out my progress.

Working the Dog Too Hard

2009-08-03T10:02:00.004-04:00

As you can see, the new employee of Soulful Studios, is very stressed at his job. I fear that the animal welfare people may just come and take him away from me for working the dog too hard. He just seems to collapse from exhaustion and puts his belly up in the air in a display of surrender. Perhaps it is the subject of my paintings that deplete his energy.

This is Brady. He is a 2 year old Shorkie (mix of Shih-Tzu and Yorkie) that SOS Dog Rescue saved from certain death. His owners brought him to the vet's office after he was hit by a car because he was not leashed. He was quite neglected and his owners were not about to pay the $4500 to repair his torn bladder or his fractured little pelvis. They would have left him to die. Barbara from SOS quickly put him into the program and made sure he got top care. Then he went to a lovely foster home awaiting his forever family.

During one of my painting breaks I was researching dog breeds that would not irritate my asthma (thank you again cancer). I was not looking to adopt yet but when I saw his face and read about his wonderful nature I knew he was supposed to be with me. We adopted him a week ago Sunday and were instantly in love with this sweet pup.

Brady is inquisitive and extremely active. He needs a few pounds and a chance for his beautiful silver hair to grow in but that doesn't make him any less handsome. He is very smart but also a little devilish because he tries to see how much he can get away with by using his cute little face as a weapon.

I am so thankful to SOS for saving this dog. He is a perfect companion and just what I needed. His adoption fee was small and didn't even cover his vet bill. I am currently working up an idea for a fundraiser to help this rescue pay for his surgeries so that they can continue to help other little doggies. You can help too by either donating directly to their site (go to the bottom of the page and donate through PayPal...it's tax deductable) or purchasing things on the web through iGive. I feel very strongly about rescuing little lives that were brought into this world by human desires only to be brushed aside when that desire diminishes.

Next post you will see the studies of the geese (they are on the easel in the above photo) and get an update on the next show at First Impressions Gallery on August 14th. Also, I'm going out to photograph another pet portrait so please come back and don't miss a thing.

Family Time

2009-07-30T11:16:00.006-04:00

"Family Time 1, 2 and 3"
sketches in moleskine

I'm working out some ideas for the painting of geese I've been commissioned to do. These little sketches are currently being turned into small acrylic studies that I will show and sell in galleries. The person commissioning the work will be able to pick what they like to be blown up for the final painting which will be rather large. It will be hard for me not to choose for her. Normally I wouldn't give this many options but each grouping has significant meaning to the client so I want her to pick what moves her most.

What fascinates me is how the images in my work always seem to reflect what is going on in my life. I've never really done a piece about family but right now this is the focus of my art. Since the summer began my days have been filled with "family" and all the good and the bad that goes with it. There is no doubt I am certainly not bored or lonely this summer.

Actually, I doubt I will ever be lonely again. Are you asking why? Well, the Friedman family just adopted a small dog from SOS Dog Rescue. His name is Brady and he is all things "love". There's lots to tell here with this story! Do you want to know more? I guess you will just have to come back to Soulful Studios to get the scoop.

The Veil

2009-07-20T11:29:00.005-04:00

"The Veil"

20x30

oil on canvas

click here to purchase

When I left Pennsville this painting was sitting on my easel waiting to be finished. The new studio was built and other works took precedence. Finally, last week I was able to put the finishing touches on the piece. The emotions that I had about the oil painting still held true at the finish. Often we hide behind things or adornments when trust is an issue. Sometimes this affects our approachability. Other times nobody notices. Everyone does it to some extent. What is the veil that you wear?

Currently I'm working on some studies for an unusual pet portrait. Soon I'll share those with you. Soulful Studios is now being requested to paint geese of all creatures! I'm enjoying this project very much. I have other pet portraits waiting in the wings once I get these small paintings worked out. Also, I would like to add to my array of equine art. Oh and then there are the bunnies, the birds and so many other things I want to paint. No more time for typing, I have to get that paint brush in my hand.

Being Judged

2009-07-13T19:28:00.007-04:00

"Varnold's Paradise" (top)

"Where the Varnold's Play" (bottom)

sketches in moleskine

If you scroll back and look at "Bunny Brave Looks to Home" you can see a winner. It won an honorable mention at the juried exhibition at Gallery 50 in Bridgeton. This gallery also has shown the works of artists like Stan Sperlak, Glenn Rudderow and Bobbie Berg. There, my work was well received, sold and even got me the offerings of a possible one man show. All in all I should have walked away feeling like a success. Let's face it, 75 other works at the show did not place in the judging. Yet, the experience left me unsettled. Really, being judged made me feel like I needed a good bath.

Let me explain. Truly, I am grateful for the honor of the award and the great people I met that night that had such flattering things to say. In my college years I was accused of painting without heart and too much technical showmanship. Now, I paint with all heart and put every emotion out there for all to see. I'm getting better at this all the time. Though I do understand the need in this world for ranking things, it is uncomfortable to have one's soul measured against another's. Ok, I hear you guys out there telling me to stop taking myself so seriously or to act like a professional who knows the judging is subjective and based on many criteria. Others would tell me not to detract from my success and rather to play it up to get more business. You are all correct.

Still, as I become more adept at being who I really want to be as a person and as an artist, I have less need to see where I fall amongst my peers. I used to paint for something to do, for acceptance, for a grade or for the money. Now, I paint because it is my way of putting my world in order. It is my language. It is my connection with The Creator. How can something this sacred be judged?

Again, I realize how silly I'm being. Why do I share this with you then? Simply put, my goal here is always to help you understand what being an artist is all about. People often think it is just about making pretty pictures and playing with paint. It is so much more. How and why you create the work is just part it. What you do with the work is a whole other story. Depending on where you show your work and what others say about it can sometimes alter the course of everything. Van Gogh's paintings did not sell while he was alive and yet many are in awe of him now. Being judged is a dangerous playground.

Now that I'm done ranting, I'd like you to go back and enjoy the above sketches from some recent outings to my happy place. Maybe I need to take a trip back there and cleanse myself in the pond.

Where Is Your Garden of Eden?

2009-07-01T10:28:00.005-04:00

"Bunny Brave's Garden of Eden"
5x7
acrylic on panel
Email to purchase.

A farmer's field is practically our backyard. Hawks frequent our property because mice in the field make for a nice snack. Being mindful of this, I try to feed my sweet rabbits and birds under the protection of the tree that shades my studio. The squirrels are on their own and frankly, I could use less of those.

I notice the rabbits love to sit under the lilac bush and relax or munch. Obviously this is a safer place to be than running in the open space. All creatures seem to have their favorite spots that provide food, shelter and sometimes just a place to breathe without threat.

I try to create places like this for myself but often life gets in the way. A quiet corner with a good book gets interrupted by the phone or family need. To combat that, I drive or walk and find a place in someone else's paradise to rest. My new found hideout is by the pond on the property owned by our local veterinarian. Their backyard is like the Garden of Eden. Sheep, birds, fish and turtles of many types flourish here. Always I am awestruck by the serenity and beauty of it all. That leaves me wondering. Do the people that live there feel as if it is paradise or do they have to escape Eden for some peace?

Soulful Studios - Horse Portrait - Ibbie

2009-06-26T09:16:00.008-04:00

"Ibbie"
16 x 20
graphite on paper
private commission

Monday morning I packaged this drawing and shipped it off to Pennsylvania. This horse portrait was a challenge because the photos were poor and the information given to me was minimal. I agreed to do this piece because I was so touched by the person that contacted me, I did not want to let him down. The graphite drawing is a gift to his future bride for their wedding day. If you've ever loved an animal you know how touching this gift truly is. The future groom explained to me how his lady has had some serious trials in her life and that it is her horse that brings her solace. Ibbie can be considered difficult to others but to her he is purely refuge. Nobody better understands this than I do, so I made it happen. My hope is that you can see in his face what I see. Graphite never photographs well, so all I can say is tha,t in person, this piece is dramatic.

I have more paintings and pet portraits on the horizon but first I want to share a little fun news. Christine of Websketching was kind enough to make a little video for the Woodstown website , featuring Alex Alampi and yours truly during the Arts in Bloom event. On the Visit Salem County website, Alex is again famous by being included in what I understand will be a television commercial to promote tourism to Salem County. A couple of years ago I was told that if I want to take my art seriously I would have to move out of Salem County because nothing "goes on" there. Well, I can tell you that I am starting to be a big fish in a small pond that it turning into one heck of a lake! Who knows what’s next?!

Bunny Brave Paintings

2009-06-10T11:37:00.007-04:00

"Bunny Brave Looks to Home"
5"x7"
acrylic on panel
Sold

"Bunny Brave"
5"x7"
acrylic on panel
Email to purchase.

"Flee Bunny Brave Flee"

5"x7"

acrylic on panel

Email to purchase.

Bunny Brave has brought me much joy. I may continue working with this format and perhaps expand his story. You can read previous posts to read the meaning behind these works. This Friday at First Impressions Gallery in Salem you can see these paintings at the show opening.

I've been so busy with finishing the horse portrait. It is one of the more difficult pieces of done in a while as the photograph does not hold much information and I must create detail and drama from my own experience and anatomy knowledge. Luckily I am surrounded by horse farms and constantly photograph other horses to help me fill in the blanks. Work like this really pushes me with my pet portraits and makes me a much better artist. I think this may be one of my best horse commissions because of the stretch I've made. Photos will be provided next post. I know Soulful Studios has kept you waiting!

Soulful Studios Open House Was A Success

2009-06-03T12:14:00.004-04:00

I thought I would share a few photos of the studio with you in case you couldn't make it to the Arts in Bloom Art Studio Tour this past Saturday and Sunday. These photos were taken before the crowds came and all the goodies were eaten. Joel and I had an opportunity to sit under the canopy of the tree before the busy days began.

We had beautiful weather and so many great people stopped by. The event was a success for the artists of Salem County because most people mentioned that they had no idea so much talent lived in this area. Personally the event was excellent because I not only got to share my new studio and work but I also now have new students, commissions and less work hanging on the walls. It always feels good to see my work find a new home. Blank spaces on the walls push me to paint more and faster.

I want to thank everyone that took the time to visit and enjoy my art. Big hugs and thanks are sent out to the friends and family that stopped by to support me. More thanks is given to my new patrons and friends as well. Finally, I am very grateful for my friendship with fellow artist, Alex Alampi, because he has taught me so much and never holds back. He is an amazing artist and a good friend. His wife, Dot, keeps me in stitches and always is there to help me "hold it together". If you didn't get the chance to see either of our studios you will have another chance the first weekend of December when Alex and I will both open our studios to the public and show new work.

If you look closely at one of the photos you can see the horse portrait in progress on my drawing table. Also to be there is a new pet portrait of a fine service dog. Soulful Studios is very busy. Next post I will share the 3 bunny paintings that will next be shown at First Impressions Art Gallery on Friday, June 12th in Salem. Stay tuned!

All About Rabbits

2009-05-27T11:46:00.003-04:00

"Flee Bunny Flee"

sketch in moleskine

Sometimes Bunny Brave just has to flee. Maybe the danger isn't clear or even present but a smart bunny follows his instinct. The trees watch his escape, unmoving. They know that tomorrow Bunny Brave will return.

Bunny Brave now lives in full color. I just finished three paintings based off of these sketches. I am consumed by the small animal world around my studio.

It has been mentioned to me in the past that the animals I draw and paint look pensive, serious and rarely joyful. Though I do believe animals experience happiness, I focus on what I see in their eyes in terms of survival. I see it in humans as well. Only when we recognize it in each other do we have a sense of compassion. I create keeping that message in mind. So if you are looking for happy trees and paintings of light, go check out the Thomas Kinkade galleries. That is understandable. If you want to feel something deeper, visit Soulful Studios during the Arts in Bloom tour of studios. I will be here to share my work with you on Saturday May 30th from 10-5 and on Sunday the 31st from 12-5. Another fine artist with an important message as he is preserving our rural heritage is Alex Alampi. His studio will be open and is only 1 mile from mine so you can truly enjoy a special day.

Stay tuned for the horse portrait and the full color versions of Bunny Brave.

Birds and Rabbits

2009-05-21T11:21:00.003-04:00

"Bunny Brave Looks to Home"

graphite sketch in moleskine

Sometimes Bunny Brave knows he must go but remains still all the same. The sun sets through the trees inviting him home into the glow and splendor. Yet, even with a destination so beautiful, the journey can still be frightening.

I know, I know, you are waiting to see the horse portrait. Well, if it weren't for the wonderful sightings of an Indigo Bunting again and a Bluebird, all in one day, I would have photographed my progress to share. Sometimes my birds are a priority. They feed my work. That's how I stay soulful at Soulful Studios.

My World According to the Rabbit

2009-05-19T11:50:00.005-04:00

"Bunny Brave"

graphite sketch in moleskine

As the sun sets Bunny Brave gets in his evening meal. He senses me near but only keeps track with one ear. The world is so big and the journey long but Bunny Brave continues on. This is the way life goes in the big backyard.

Updates on the horse portrait and Arts in Bloom Open House at Soulful Studios next post.

Hitched...So Now It's Time for Pet Portraits

2009-05-03T11:54:00.004-04:00

I still can't believe how my life has changed in the blink of an eye. A year ago I was busy healing and trying to get my little studio busy with projects but all the while feeling as something was missing. This year I am married to a wonderful and handsome man that has built me the most beautiful studio that I could imagine. Right now it is pouring rain outside and yet the glow of the green grass streams through my many windows and is only trumped by the busy action of my feathered friends. Sometimes it is difficult to focus with such beauty forcing its way through my door. This really is Soulful Studios.

Focus is something I need now as this is probably the last post without the art that is supposed to be showcased here. Beyond the other commissions that I have put on hold I now have one new horse portrait that has a tough deadline as well as requests for painting lessons. The finishing touches are still being put on the studio. There is still much work to be done to get ready for the Arts in Bloom event, where you can visit my studio/gallery and the studios in Salem county on May 30th and 31st. All of this must be done while I get new cards printed and other logistics handled. Let's also not forget that I need some new little paintings for the event as well as First Impressions Gallery that has been patiently waiting for new work. I need to remind myself that I can only get done what I can get done. How nice it is that these are my concerns and not that of others that I've had in the past.

So, pardon me as I get back to my horse portrait so I can then start my dog portrait to be followed by two cow paintings with a few birds and flowers thrown in for good measure. All of these things as well as my framed originals and prints are available for viewing by the public during the Arts in Bloom even on May 30th and 31st. I can't wait to see you there.

Soulful Studios Pet Portraits Almost Ready for Business

2009-04-20T12:39:00.002-04:00

I can't believe how much we've accomplished since my last post. During the last week of January I started making arrangements for our wedding. Even though we are keeping it small, simple and mostly family, there was more work involved than I realized. Thinking I was a smart woman, I put my house up for sale at the beginning of March so that by the end of summer it would be sold and my wedding would have been over and the new studio would be finished. This way nobody would be rushed, or so I thought. The dear Lord smiled on us and my house/studio sold in a matter of days to the first person that saw it, after being on the internet for only 2 hours. This was great news however, part of the deal required me to be out of there in 3 weeks. Again, the new Soulful Studios was not finished and I would be without the ability to paint or upload to Blogger for many weeks. In this crazy housing market, we didn't think twice and got my stuff out of there and let our crackerjack real estate agent handle the rest. So, since February, we've built a new studio, organized a beautiful wedding and moved an entire house and workspace. Wow.

This is more than amazing to me because this time last year I would not have been able to meet these physical and emotional challenges. My body was not nearly healed enough and it still has a long way to go even now. Yet, every morning that I wake up, I see steady improvement. I doubt I will ever be able to run 13 miles on a Sunday morning again but that doesn't matter. My life and my world has different challenges and better rewards now. For the first time since 2006, I look far into the future with excitement and the knowledge that no matter what, I have a strong support system. To say this feels like a rebirth is an understatement.

By Wednesday of next week I will be painting again. New business cards will be made and regular updates to my website and blog will be published. Business as usual can be expected at Soulful Studios but better than ever. Still to be finished is the back wall gallery, the stone path and shrubs, the proper light bulbs installed and the front signage made. All of this must be in place for the Arts in Bloom Open House Studio Tour on May 30th and 31st. Please visit the main site for more information about this special event. I will be posting more updates after the wedding. Until then please enjoy the photos above as a little hint of the peacefulness and beauty that you will find here when you visit.

Also, please visit Canine Partners for Life's site and view the videos about their fabulous work. Watching these clips will help you better understand why this is the organization I support the most.

Finally, Woodstown will be starting their farmers market on May 8th. Please visit their site for more information. As things get rolling there, I will be creating a series of paintings featuring the Woodstown Farmers' Market much as I painted for the one in Salem.

So much to say and yet so little time. Thank you all for being so patient. I'm glad to be back.

Going Home

2009-02-24T13:24:00.004-05:00

"Going Home"
5x7
acrylic on panel
$165.00
click here to purchase

The grip of winter is fading. I can feel spring coming despite the icy wind. This is my last winter painting for the season. There are 3 more sketches of similar horse art pieces but they will wait for another time. My mind is on beginnings and growth not hibernation.

Again and again I mention how I am looking forward to being back to work on a more steady basis. The lighting is in the new Soulful Studios and all that is needed before I can move in is flooring. These few months off have served me well. My ideas are fresh and my excitement grows like the little daffodils outside my window, trying to poke through the covering earth.

Fame is not something I'm after by any means. My motivation is much more personal. Often people mention how someday I'll be in museums with big price tags hanging from my work. Though that would be nice, surprisingly that is not my goal. I have a vision of what direction my work should take. It gets closer all the time but I have yet to really paint it. Honestly, I think I will always be reaching and striving for something I don't see in my work but a little closer I would like to be. I will get there. I know this because for the first time I feel right about other parts of my life. The rest is surely to follow.

A college professor once told me to "do what you love and the rest will follow." I'm doing it. Wait and see.

Future Paradise

2009-02-20T14:02:00.004-05:00

11'x22' of paradise. That's what I call it. The above photos represent the current progress of the new Soulful Studios. I know it doesn't look like a lot of planning and work but trust me it was. Lighting fixtures are to be installed soon and I'm trying to work something out with Mannington Mills in terms of flooring. Special considerations had to be made for the unique structural issues of this building like baseboards and trim around the doors. Our drywall guy did an amazing job of turning something ugly into something beautiful. If you look closely at the photo of the front door you can see my finished work and canvas storage loft. That was Joel's great idea for the use of space. I'm not sure if you can see it but the rafters were left showing so the area doesn't feel like a box but rather very open. That's another fancy idea ala Joel. To say I'm excited is an understatement. This will be my safe haven and my sanctuary. All this time I've spent planning my wedding and this studio really makes me appreciate how important my art is to me.

The Sweetheart Reception at First Impressions Gallery in Salem was packed with art lovers. Many folks took the time to chat and wish me well on my upcoming marriage. What surprised me the most was the overwhelming support of my work and how many people made a point to tell me how much it meant to them. One woman that has purchased many pieces of mine commented on how important my Salem Farmers Market series are to her. Another man pulled me aside to tell me that he feels like my paintings of horses actually breathe and fill him with such joy. Sometimes I don't feel like meeting with the public, as by the evening I tend to be tired. However, it is so important because it is moments with the kind people that appreciate my work that make me feel that the little things we all do matter.

I have another painting I need to post. It is my last winter scene of the year. It is time to start painting spring so that I will be ready for the open studio tour in May. The truth is I've just been so busy with life's little details that I'm very behind in posting. What details you ask? Well, I had my hair done the other day (almost 3 hours sitting in that chair) only to go home very unhappy and far too blonde for a bride, forcing me to return the next day to have it fixed. Such worries right? To think only 2 years ago I would have killed to have hair to complain about. That little thought gave me such a chuckle. I hope you find it amusing too.

On a final note, if you are on Facebook please add me as a friend. I just added a profile and I seriously need more friends!

Have a great weekend!

Getting Closer to Going Home

2009-02-05T16:19:00.003-05:00

"Going Home"
sketch in moleskine

I was driving home to Pilesgrove when suddenly I saw a beautiful snowy sunset in the field next to Cowtown Rodeo. Grant's big rough-stock horses were out finding little blades of grass peaking through the white covering to nibble on. In the distance there were two horses lit by the setting sun walking away from the rest. Watching them leave together made me think they might be heading home. Let me remind you that I always relate human emotions and events to my animal subjects. Somehow I felt connected to these two. Quickly I took my pictures and jumped back into the safety of my car and drove home to my family. It was a good feeling.

Much of my time now is spent moving and planning a studio and a little wedding. It may happen that the studio will be finished in March and I will be able to paint from my new Pilesgrove location. As I look at my sketches, I see a theme of partnership and grounding that I have not witnessed before in my work. You can only draw what you know. The future is exciting but I stay firmly fixed on the present. The past has taught me that. We have now. Now is wonderful.

Next post I will share photos of the studio progress. I cannot believe how beautiful it is becoming. I've never had a space to work in as special as this. Every detail has been considered. Who could want for more?

Don't forget the next reception at First Impressions Gallery in Salem on Friday February 13th from 6-9pm. I will be there so please come in and say hello. Don't forget to ask me about Soulful Studios new home.

Sketching Salem County

2009-01-26T15:33:00.008-05:00

"January Afternoon"
sketch in moleskine

"That Guy's Tree"

sketch in moleskine

Trying to build a studio yourself is a slow process. It is sucking up much of our free time. The electric is now in and drywall is next. There is talk of a studio tour through Salem County in May. I hope I am ready. There will be another reception at First Impressions Art Gallery in Salem on Friday, February 13th. My recent small works will be available there.

I've been seeking new places in Salem County to sketch. Now that I no longer live near the water I am looking for that perfect place that I can paint over and over again. The above sketches were done as part of my quest for my new favorite haunt. I have a feeling when the studio is done I will mostly want to paint the view outside the window but until then I'm looking for something new.

Every time I sit in the car with my moleskine and sketch it is always like a special event. While I drew the barn scene, a man in a truck pulled over twice to make sure I was ok. The first time was on his way to the store and the second was on his way back. It is nice to know chivalry is not dead. Then when I was parked across the street from the old tree, a man ran out from his home over to my car with a look of suspicion on his face. Perhaps he thought I was staking out the joint. I rolled down the window and showed him my sketchbook and he exclaimed, "That's my tree! That is so beautiful!" Then suddenly his 5 dogs ran out into the middle of the road with a big truck barreling towards them. I gasped and he raced in time to shoo them away. I can see the headline now. "Pet Portrait Artist Kills 5 Dogs, Owner Suing." Life is certainly not dull even if I'm not painting pet portraits.

Soulful Studios would like to give a "shout out" to Canine Partners for Life for yet another great evening. Joel and I attended the wine tasting event at the Hilton Garden Inn last week and had a blast. There was food, music and of course wine. We had the opportunity to see our friends Jennifer and Janie as well as give some love to great dogs in training. Don't forget to check out the website to find out about the wine auction. It is an amazing time that shouldn't be missed!

The Winter Cold and Andrew Wyeth

2009-01-16T13:47:00.005-05:00

"Distant Barn"
acrylic on panel
5x7
$165
Click here to purchase.

The cold of the winter has finally set in. It will be only 8 degrees tonight. Perhaps that is a heat wave if you live in Minnesota but not here in New Jersey. I'm not a big fan of winter. One or two good snows I find beautiful and cozy. After that I'm left feeling rather bleak and ready for spring or a good vacation. This painting was done from the sketch in my last post. It speaks of my general feelings about this season.

As I painted, I was thinking about my last trip to the Brandywine River Museum. That is one of my favorite haunts. During my college years I was very influenced by the works of N.C. Wyeth. As I get older I am more influenced by Andrew and Jamie. Andrew Wyeth passed away today at the age of 91.

I feel it appropriate to mention his work in this post because often his art represented the starkness of winter. As often as I can, I read up on the Wyeth family because I learn so much from them. Andrew painted to sort things out in his own life. He had much to deal with if you read about his upbringing and family betrayals. It seems so many artists draw from difficult times in their lives to fuel their art. I relate to the desire to distill one's work down to its essence. More and more I want to take the less is more approach. Andrew Wyeth certainly had that well worked out.

What I find interesting is that the art community hasn't always been kind to the Wyeth family. Many critics have commented that his work was not fine art but mere illustration. I'm not sure if I've ever understood the difference and take offense to the statement as I was an illustration major in college. I've come to peace with criticisms like that by telling myself that the people that do all the talking don't do the painting. Critics don't create value they create words.

The passing of Andrew Wyeth gives me much to think about. Don't get me wrong, Soulful Studios is not abandoning pet portraits. Currently I'm working with clients getting their ideas together. I'm trying to hold off on new pet portraits until the new studio is finshed so my flow isn't interrupted as I find that so frustrating. Lately I have been focusing on narrowing my vision and getting to the bones of my subjects. Take time to read up on the Wyeths. Have a glass of wine as you do because their lives read like a major movie drama.

Settling Into 2009

2009-01-07T13:48:00.003-05:00

"Distant Barn"
graphite sketch in moleskine

This sketch is the view from the French doors of my soon to be new studio. If I sit quietly there, I see so many different types of birds, many squirrels and even the occasional buck sneaking by. I am so excited about having this very special space. It is being built with such love and care and that feeling will carry into my work for certain. Much of the holiday was spent working on the studio when we were not with family and friends or of course eating.

So much has happened in the past two years that I am basically just trying to settle into 2009. I'm trying to take it easy and just catch up to myself. This week I have to get back to working on the many pet portrait jobs and commissions I have waiting. I feel more refreshed and focused and this will help with my art.

I wish everyone peace and good health in 2009.