Chick with Egg

Acrylic on Panel, 6x6--SOLD

Our HOA doesn't allow chickens; hence, this is the next best thing....

A Painting's Background

As I gain experience in the "Daily Painting" genre, I am learning that "backgrounds count." I truly thought that, if the subject was glorious, the background was superfluous. I was wrong. In the past two weeks, I have changed four backgrounds--two for clients and two for myself. I must admit, these changes made a world of difference.

Above is "Shark Eye Shell, No. 2" with the original, blackish background. I had it on eBay a couple of weeks ago, but it didn't sell. I even received a comment that it looked too ominous with such a foreboding background, even though the shell was nearly perfect. I hung it in my home and pondered that correspondence. She was right.

The new version is below the original, now with a bluish tinge (reminiscent of tumbled sea glass). Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I think this is a vast improvement.... Any thoughts on the matter?

Blueberry Pie Slice

Acrylic on Panel, 6x6--SOLD

I seem to be on a pie kick. The good thing about these paintings? No calories!

Tennis Ball

Acrylic, 6x6 --SOLD

Cherry Pie Slice

Acrylic, 6x6 on Panel--SOLD
Yum. Need I say more?

Empty Clam Shell, No. 3

Empty Clam Shell, No. 3--Acrylic on Panel, 6x6--SOLD

Ahhh, something less challenging than an abalone. I love clams and hope to find some fresh ones in the market soon....

Abalone Shell

This abalone shell was the most difficult shell I've ever attempted. Any time I changed position (I paint these on the floor or on my lap), the colors would shift. Maybe I should try some of those iridescent paints that are on the market to more closely mimic reality. SOLD

Scallop Shell

Here is another "3-D" daily painting (6x6 on panel), this time, of a small scallop shell. Again, the water is sculpted using modeling paste and the sand consists of fine garnet granules. (Sorry about the blurred photo--scanning three-dimensional items is not the best idea.) SOLD

Shrimp with Lemon Slices

Shrimp with Lemon Slices - Acrylic on Panel, 6x6 - SOLD

This painting, requested by some lovely clients in Hilton Head, is actually version #2 of a piece I did (and sold) over a year ago and is based on a photo in well-known lobster catalog. I actually think this one is better and will probably include it in next year's calendar. I'll certainly replace the print I have in my portfolio!

Fishing Lure, No. 2

"Fishing Lure, No. 2"--Acrylic on Panel, 6x6, $75 to purchase

Here is another one of Dad's lures. It is actually quite cute! (This one reminds me of a frog--one of my mother's favorite creatures - NOT!)

Fishing Lure, No. 1

We are experiencing the worst drought in almost a century in central Texas. As a result, our pond (usually stocked with perch and catfish) is completely dry. This fishing lure, from my dad, is just collecting dust. I decided to put it to use in a different way--as a model!
"Fishing Lure, No. 1"--Acrylic on Artists' Board, 6"x6" -- SOLD

Garlic with Clove

I love painting food, then eating it. One of my favorite dishes is a rich garlic soup that I first encountered at a Spanish restaurant in San Diego. It was so awesome that, on a return trip to San Diego (with my husband this time), I insisted we locate the restaurant so I could order it again. Time to peruse one of my Spanish cookbooks.... $75 - Purchase from artist

Beach, No. 2

For this beach scene, I chose a different kind of panel--yesterday's was a smooth Ampersand one; today's is on a polyflax, cotton canvas mounted to a balanced wood panel by RayMar. The main difference is the amount of texture. The canvas shows its weave. However, for landscapes, I think I actually prefer the smoother board--it's cheaper, uses more paint, but gives the art a more "polished" look. Any thoughts?

Beach, No. 2 - Acrylic on cotton canvas mounted to a wood panel, 5"x7", SOLD

Beach, No. 1

This is quite a departure for me: landscapes are rare in my repertoire; yet beach scenes are even rarer. In fact, this is the first one I ever attempted. (Reminds me of Nagshead, NC....heavy sigh.)

I planned on putting this painting in a gallery on the historic Square in Georgetown, TX in preparation for this month's First Friday festivities. I even had an antique guilded frame for it (which added to the price)!!!!! Alas, an East Coast transplant who visited my home FOUR HOURS LATER took it home with her....
Beach, No. 1 - Acrylic on Ampersand Panel, 5"x7", SOLD