I've been "tagged" three times!!!

I've been "tagged" by fellow artists Connie Tom, Laurie Justus Pace and Eric Francis. The way I understand it, I am to list a few things about myself then tag five more artists. It seems like a means for becoming better acquainted not only with one another, but with you as well. So here goes, five tidbits of info.

1. 
   
   Originally I studied to be a ballerina and only recently discarded my worn out toe shoes; actually, I should've kept them for an interesting still life painting.
2. 
   
   Always wanting to play the harpsichord, I had to settle for the piano and later the flute. It is my hope to get back to flute and learn violin, if I ever get any spare time away from my easel.
3. 
   
   As Leonardo DaVinci was able to do, I can write with both hands simultaneously backwards and upside down creating double mirror images of my writings. Perhaps this visualization helps my painting? I know some composers use this process while writing music.
4. 
   
   In college I pursued a Bachelor of Science major, finding math, chemistry and physics particularly interesting as elements and equations could be interpreted visually. There is a mathematical equation for visual beauty, although I can only admit to painting instinctively in the hopes of achieving that objective.
5. 
   
   Protection of the environment, particularly flora and fauna, and animal rights are paramount with me, as should be with all of us. Organic foods and gardening practices are a small start, as well as contributing to organizations that endeavor to protect Earth's precious gifts. (Please see links on lefthand side of this blog.)
   

The first five artists I will "tag" are: Diana Moses Botkin, Gerald Schwartz, Jacqui Faye Michel, Debra Sisson, Don Gray The second five artists I will "tag" are: Robin Weiss, Carol Marine, Debbie Lincoln, Robin Cheers, Thaw Malin III The third five artists I will "tag" are:

Christmas Wishes 2007 christmas card

Christmas Card 2007

Rich Gourmet Chocolates

SOLD

4x4 inches oil on panel

It’s been quite some time since I painted anything in my Chocolate Series because I tended to sample too many of my subjects. However, with the arrival of the holidays, I thought it may be time to splurge a little again . . . but as always, these are calorie free for you!

RED CHERRIES IN SPODE TEACUP blue transferware

SOLD
6x6 inches, oil on panel, $250

Spilling from this Spode Blue Italian teacup is a small handful of Queen Anne cherries, which I favor for their visual variations ranging from yellow to red. Adding the branch of leaves with the light shining through one, created depth and interest as well as the reflections in the mahogany table.

BLUE WEDGWOOD CHINA WITH PEARS (SOLD)

SOLD
Oil on panel 5 x 3.5 inches, framed dimensions 6 x 4.5 inches
A true miniature, this must be the smallest subject I’ve ever completed. To paint those pears only 1/4 inch in size was indeed challenging! The muted tones of this painting create a uniquely serene effect.

PEELED ORANGES (SOLD)

SOLD

Oil on canvas panel 4x5 inches, overall framed size 7x8 inches

Frame included $165 click above link to see details

MY STUDIO

Today we're all posting images of our studios for you to visit...and here's mine!

It's a substantial space, one corner shown here, with both Southern and Western exposures which provide not only marvellous light through several windows, but also a high, panoramic view of my front garden. On occasion if early enough in the morning, I have caught several deer nibbling my sweet peas and hollyhocks over the picket fence as well as sniffing out the cats from under the 40 foot Blue Spruces which provide a haven for countless birds and other wildlife. Springtime permits sweet fragrances from blossoming trees and the tender serenades of birdsong wafting in on gentle breezes, which by Summertime, can become a bit gusty with approaching storms. Currently, Winter not only affords amazing sunsets through defoliated trees, but also magnificent views of the snow covered landscape. Stepping into my studio is always inspirational....

victorian style painting classical realism painting in oils fruit flowers nest ENGLISH ROSES, FEATHERED BIRD'S NEST, GRAPES, RASPBERRIES (SOLD)

8x10 inches, oil on stretched canvas

SOLDBelieve it or not, this painting actually emerged from the center outward, beginning with the tiny pinch of raspberry leaves, their delicate tint of blue on the undersides being simply irresistible. Just before the frost hit this Fall, I plucked this little stem to preserve it’s beauty . . . and see how it’s grown!

WHITE ORIENTAL LILIES (SOLD)

SOLD

20x20 inches oil on canvas
This was inspired by one of my small 4x4 inch "Little Gems" paintings done earlier this year and sold to a client who loved it so much she wanted it bigger than life...so here it is! With the enlarged size I was able to include additional details such as ladybugs and dewdrops gliding off the very tip of the broken leaf.