That doesn’t refer to current events, though it certainly could. It is a quote from an artist named Nicolas Roerich. He believed cultural heritage is a world treasure comprised of buildings, art, universities, libraries, concert halls and theaters. He said they must all be “protected from the ravages of war and neglect, for without them […]
Color, cars, Cuba! I recently spent a long weekend in Havana, satisfying an urge that's been itching me for years. My hope was to immerse myself in a colorful, energizing place that would inspire a new series of paintings, and it did. What an experience! Nothing really adequately prepared me, though I read guide books and […]
People often ask how I can give up my paintings and whether it feels like giving up a child. Well, never having had that sad experience I can't say for sure, but I'm guessing it's quite a bit less traumatic. In fact, it's a relief when my work goes to a good home, with someone who loves it. […]
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 […]
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 […]
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. […]
This week a friend created a beautiful quilt and cited my paintings as her inspiration when she posted it on Facebook. I was surprised and honored to learn my seascape paintings – like this one – had provided the impetus for a stunning work of art by a very talented woman. She’s someone I worked with […]
It may seem odd to consider those subjects together, but humor me for a minute by following an admittedly convoluted train of thought. Last weekend we went kayaking under less than ideal conditions, into a strong current, with high winds. It would've been great for sailing, but we didn't have enough time, so kayaking it was – good exercise […]
The term curated has been appropriated recently by trendy shop owners, restauranteurs and others so that every collection of clothing, jewelry, furniture or food is now “curated” just for you. Professional curators have degrees in art history to help them select art and determine how best to preserve, store and display objects. They can spend years putting together exhibits that involve […]
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 […]
