The Importance of Awe

An article about awe, citing everyone from a therapist, to a theoretical physicist (whatever that is!) to a UNICEF exec, got me thinking about what inspires and soothes us. For some, it's the immensity of the universe. For others, it's a cathedral, a spectacular sunset, a hundred voices lifted in song, an ancient tree, or a piece of art. […]

Au Revoir, France!

Fresh inspiration struck this month during a wonderful visit to France! I’m now reviewing literally hundreds of photos to determine where to begin a new series of paintings. It will be a tough call because we covered a lot of territory. Starting in Paris – my favorite place in the world! – a trip to L’Orangerie reminded […]

Lamp Posts, Arches and Umbrellas

Many people have commented on my use of vivid color, and a very observant few have also noticed certain elements that show up regularly in my paintings. Besides city scenes and street fairs (the energy!) and sunsets over water (the colorful energy!) I seem to have a bias for interesting architectural elements. These include impressive arched doorways, ornate […]

Older and Better

No need to choose just one, and I don’t say this simply because of a sign at a recent dinner party saying “silver is the new blond!” Older has given me time and resources to travel more. Better is because I’m healthier (thanks to our CSA farm share) and more fit (thanks to Pilates) than when I […]

Painting Challenges in Portugal

First of all, Portugal actually makes Rome look flat. Once I understood that, the challenges became clear for a dedicated walker who wants to photograph and paint the spectacular views. Famously built on seven hills, Rome is filled with staircases and winding streets. Its relatively gradual inclines are nothing compared to Portugal’s hills, which rise almost straight up. Portuguese […]

Romance Language Paintings

There is something intriguing about the Latin-derived languages.  I love traveling to places where they are spoken, like France, Spain, Portugal, Chile, Argentina and Italy.  I usually find great food and architecture, friendly people, and inspiration galore for paintings. Perhaps you share my fascination with the places, sounds and tastes of what are called the romance languages. […]

How Exhibits Happen

People visiting my exhibits often ask how I happen to be showing there. Research I did as a consultant revealed many artists sit in their studios hoping a curator or gallery owner will knock on their doors. Not very likely, for most of us, so I try to make my own luck rather than hope for a fairy godmother. This […]