December, Nocturne

oil on canvas

8x10, 2009

I suppose it was only a matter of time. I had ventured out to do a series of nocturne paintings a few years ago. It was summer and I painted  hay stacks in the moonlight. Easier said than done. In the warm weather all kinds of creatures come out to play--some unwelcome.  Recently, one of my students, Dora Keogh, a very accomplished plein air artist, went out in the bitter evening cold and rendered some magnificent night paintings, which inspired me to 'weather ' the elements and re-visit the mysterious nuances of night.

available      
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December, Little Voices in the Air

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2009

Sometimes I think I am nuts!:-) By the time I bundled up-2 pair pants, 2pair socks, small scarf,  wool shawl (double use as I cover the cold chair with it), tackle box with paint gear, canvas, backboard AND 3 bouncy dogs in tow...it was almost dark! But it was the first day that the snow lasted, the sun was warm and I LOVE late light. Yes, my hands and feet were frozen by the time I packed everything up and headed back, but nothing is better (except painting) than coming into a warm house and sitting over a good cup of hot tea to contemplate one's handiwork.

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December, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

 I quite like winter light. The landscape is so open. Bereft of foliage, I find the juxtaposition of dried wild grasses and the structure of trees and vines breathtaking against a wild winter sky. The windier and colder it is, the more dramatic the sky. I head out around 2:30 with a wee sketch book and pastels and make numerous marks of moving sky. Back in the comfort of the studio, I compile and work from there. I don’t understand people who say there is no colour in winter…..

16x20in, available

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December, Remains of the Day

soft pastel, encaustic on panel
6x8in, 2009
available:$135 each or both for $195
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September

secret mission series

oil on canvas

16x20in, 2009

This is the last of a commission series I started in September. I had the pleasure of visiting and painting one of the most beautiful regions in Ontario. I can not yet divulge the location as it is a surprise. I was there for a week ( tough job:-), the weather was perfect, ( except for the wind ) and I was able to work pretty well undisturbed --heaven for the plein air painter!

December, Olga's Barn

small gift series

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2009

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