RECENT PAINTINGS & NEWS

2010-11-05T22:27:00.000-07:00

I am Moving

2010-11-04T00:15:00.000-07:00

Because I can

not eliminate these ^%#****widgets

which cover my posts,

I have set up a new blog HERE

In doing so, I have lost all of my followers!

I so appreciate my followers,

and am hoping that you

will take the time to sign back on,

as well as bookmark,

my new blog!

Thank you!

commission

2010-10-31T22:17:00.000-07:00

Not my usual seasonal serving, especially in the grey light of November and, lately, especially coming from me!

to everything there is a season

oil on canvas, 30x40in

This is the commission that I started at the beginning of summer (mentioned in my post here) and completed only a few weeks ago. A lot of time has lapsed between sessions and with family illness pervading I had to put it aside. It would not have been fair to my client had I pushed myself when my heart wasn't in it. I am very happy with it now (although still can’t manage to adjust colours to my liking on the monitor) The client came to the gallery today to pick it up and of course I was nervous re his response –he was happy! All is good.

Today I also sold my new painting (October, Liah’s View) that was barely dry. What a contrast in work compared to the garden above- I have really been questioning my direction lately and feeling pretty unsure re current work and where I am heading so this perked me up a wee bit...

Open Studio 'LIVE'

2010-10-30T08:35:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in awhile--busy with art submissions etc-

A lot of my time has been taken up with creating an online Art Auction, with portion of proceeds to McNally House Hospice. I still haven't worked out all the kinks, but for a sneak preview click HERE

I will also be raffling off paintings--this is one .

November, a walk after Guinn, oil on canvas, 16x20in

Liah's View

2010-10-16T21:57:00.000-07:00

Recently we had guests staying over so had to spend some time in my daughter’s old room. I had forgotten how breathtaking the view was from her window, no matter the season. When my guests left and the right days came (yesterday/today) I lugged all of my painting gear upstairs…interesting how inspiration can just come on the fly—but how long has it really been there? It was an insightful state of catharsis to be in as she was everywhere..

October (Liah's View)

oil on canvas

30x30in, 2010

SOLD

2010-10-12T20:14:00.000-07:00

I've always liked the strong contrasts of black vertical lines-in this case the tree trunks, juxtaposed against the bright yellows of textured leaves when the light hits just-so. Things move in a really melodic way, especially with a consistent breeze--such was today--a good one to accompany with paint.

October

oil on canvas

12x24in, 2010

available

Highland Thanksgiving

2010-10-11T19:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving, Canada!

Between reading Hebridean tales by Lillian Beckwith and inspired by a wonderfully written blog by accomplished painter Caroline Simmill and this being Thanksgiving, the Scottish highlands have been with me all day!

Two years ago I traveled to the north west coast of Scotland for the first time and spent Thanksgiving with my daughter in an extremely remote croft (did I mention remote?) off a one-track road and on top of the sea.

Of course, Thanksgiving is not a Scottish tradition, so no turkey to be found, never-mind a grocery store. I did manage a very very long and hilly hilly hike to the ‘town’ that consisted of a post office, pub (of course) and a wee store with everything.

I selected an assortment of food items and inquired as to where to book a taxi, as they would be too heavy to carry on the return marathon. The merchant gave me a quizzical look - (a taxi? out here?) Taking pity she kindly offered to deliver the goods in an hour or so. So in the company of curious sheep I climbed the hills ( mountains) back to the croft. This strenuous climbing is commonly called hill-walking…sounds so –un-strenuous- when put that way.

Once inside I couldn’t wait to turn on the stove, make some hot tea and rummage around for some pots and pans in anticipation of our ‘Thanksgiving’ dinner. Unfortunately I had no idea how to work the stove, nor the coal fired Ray-burn (I think that’s the name). On top of that, I was beginning to wonder what had happened to the kind storekeeper who assured me she ‘knew the croft’. I reassured myself-after all there weren’t many crofts out here and she would find us eventually. Hours went by –my daughter figured out how to work the stove and managed to get some heat from the Ray-burn but we were hungry! Then we heard a quiet tap on the door. Our ‘neighbours’ (half an acre away) had received the groceries and kindly dropped them off. That Thanksgiving meal of fried ham and eggs -brilliant!

I have rarely been so moved to paint as when I was amongst the raw and haunting scope of this world. Spiritually I felt a force well beyond the visually stunning splendor of mysterious mountains and sky. It cast a spell and I was compelled to return the following year.. hope to go again, but for now I am living it vicariously through the writings and paintings of others.

all paintings from SEALLADH SITHEIL SERIES, plein air, Jan Yates, SCA, acrylic on canvas

2010-10-09T17:27:00.000-07:00

I painted over my July vineyard because it was too tight and contrived--then I painted over THAT painting (a few posts ago) because it was too dark and muddy--I've mentioned in previous posts that I like to paint over old work, but I have to be careful as the pigments of the previous under-paintings can affect the top colours--and not always in a good way..
.
I am much happier with this image.

October
oil on canvas
18x24in, 2010
available

^

2010-10-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

This is another plein air work rendered last October that I put away. Because the premise of my work is about documenting the seasons and climate change, if I start a painting in a certain month and don't have the opportunity to finish in the same month with the same weather, I put it away until the following year. This was painted at the END of October 2009--on my walks in the field the colours are the same NOW, mid October, so we are definably early in the changing of the seasons in the land.

October, Greenbelt Disaster
oil on canvas
18x24in, available

For those of you that have inquired re my titles that include 'Greenbelt Disaster'

'The ‘Greenbelt Disaster’ series transpired after I caught sight of a hand painted sign of the same name propped up on the back of a tractor. The tractor was parked on the service road near Niagara’s QEW for all to see and behind it was a smouldering vineyard. It was a protest from local growers, whose vineyards and orchards were destroyed or left to go fallow because they could no longer afford to farm them. Since, I have visited and interviewed some of these growers and organizations and this series of paintings is a culmination of that investigation.' To read more please visit: This Land is our Land

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Kama & Canadian Balsam

2010-10-06T18:58:00.000-07:00

I’ve always found the technical aspect of painting with oil to be an intriguing challenge. It’s important to know the components and strengths of pigments as they interact with each other long after the painting is dry—so it is integral to use the highest standard of oil paint and mediums and I have a few favourites. The more expensive are the highly pigmented paints - Old Holland, Williamsburg and Michael Harding—beautiful beautiful beautiful..and worth every penny- from consistency, handling and saturation. I think it’s important to invest in good quality pigments, but I have found that M Graham Paints and mediums are cost effective and bound with walnut oil allowing for brilliant refractive qualities.

For the past year I have been using KAMA oil paint and mediums. They are ground by hand in an artist run store out of Montreal and they not only offer excellent paint—in unique colours like ‘hemoglobin’-but also powdered pigment and all the fixings if you are inclined to make your own. They are brilliant—also using walnut oil as binder but they are a lot ‘drier’ than M Graham. I really like experimenting with mediums and reading Marc Dalessio's blog led me on a hunt for Canadian Balsam— and I found it at KAMA! It’s very expensive but after investigating it I just HAD to try it.

Today I mixed my medium by using 1 part sun-thickened linseed oil, 1 part solvent and 1 part Canadian Balsam. I work very thin and lay in using only turps and a little alkyd to speed up the drying—as I lay in thicker passages I add the medium. The Balsam moves the paint beautifully—very fluid. Canadian Balsam is a sap from fir trees, used to improve adhesion from one paint layer to another and impart a silky smooth quality to the paint. It is supposed to be clearer than other balsams and leave a refractive sheen..will find out when this little painting dries.

October

oil in canvas

9x12in, 2010
available

2010-10-04T23:16:00.000-07:00

'I know the year is dying, Soon the summer will be dead.
I can trace it in the flying, Of the black crows overhead;
I can hear it in the rustle Of the dead leaves as I pass,
And the south wind's plaintive sighing Through the dry and withered grass.

Ah, 'tis then I love to wander, Wander idly and alone,
Listening to the solemn music Of sweet nature's undertone;
Wrapt in thoughts I cannot utter, Dreams my tongue cannot express,
Dreams that match the autumn's sadness In their longing tenderness.'
- Mortimer Crane Brown

October, Thinking of You

oil on canvas

12x12in, SOLD

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2010-09-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

Today was a very changeable day. The wind was throwing leaves from the trees and the sky was trying to catch them.

September, Letting Go

oil on canvas

14x30in, 2010

available

2010-09-21T18:52:00.000-07:00

The painting below is from an island location on Lake Huron. I had the opportunity to stay and paint for a week in exchange for the client selecting 2 paintings as a birthday gift for his wife. (very romantic as it was her family's summer getaway growing up).

There are no cars on the island and not many people about in September so it was an ideal setting for an artist. I was able to paint undisturbed most of the time and managed to render 7 plein air works of various sizes. The downside to being on an island however was transporting these wet canvases, luggage and 2 large dogs to the mainland in a wee motor boat. We were holding the paintings over our heads and almost made it to the other side when the boat ran out of gas….

September, A Time to Keep

oil on canvas

18x24in, SOLD

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2010-09-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

Personally I find my work is in continuous cycle—cycle of growth, harvest, then dormancy. September for me is bittersweet—a month visually stunning but symbolic of what is looming. Depicted below is a turbulent work—artistically faulted in the traditional sense —but no apologies—it is what it is, felt good to get it out.

September

oil on canvas

18x24in, 2010

available

2010-09-16T22:31:00.000-07:00

The other evening my students and I painted out in the back field. Sadly-or not- the light this time of year goes very quickly and we were painting into the dark. Next week we will work on two canvases-one will be reserved exclusively for some night painting. A good challenge and we’ll prime the canvas blue/black I think. The colour temperature this year is so warm that this compliment should work when juxtaposed against the cool dark under-painting.

This small painting is from our excursion and another that has has been painted over a few unsuccessful works-I like the texture of the under-painting.

September, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas
9x12in, 2010
available

2010-09-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

On grey days or in winter I love nothing more than to be in the studio working on larger paintings—time to stand back, contemplate, change course..but today a break was needed –the day was too beautiful! I couldn’t help but indulge myself. With very little time I still managed to sneak out at 5PM, climb the hill, feel the sun on my face and paint. I will have to re-shoot tomorrow after I pick out the wee bits of grasses and what looks to be hair of dog.

September
oil on canvas
9x12in, 2010
available

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2010-09-10T08:50:00.000-07:00

Today on my hike I was astounded at the vastness of yellow. The fields and fallow vineyards are carpeted with goldenrod.

The painting below was rendered at the end of September –last year. It was one that came together beautifully and I am happy with the composition, movement and brushwork. More importantly, the experience of painting it as I know this subject intimately. When I moved here the vineyard was nurtured and harvested but five years ago was left to go fallow.

The posts and vines are still firmly rooted in the earth—even though there is no wire to hold them up… when I am really struggling with my work, this painting helps me get through..

September, Greenbelt Disaster

oil on canvas

16x20in, 2009

available
^

2010-09-07T21:51:00.000-07:00

This morning my Sister lost her beloved cat due to illness..any of us who have experienced this know the heartbreak. It got me to thinking about my dogs –past and present- and how they have grounded me. In reflection there are many paintings—some representative of the subject, but in the case of my nonconformist dog who went way too young, there are paintings of place—

September I Miss You the Most

soft pastel, field flowers, encaustic

18x18in, 2009

Holding On

soft pastel, field flowers, encaustic

18x20in, 2009

December, Missing Guinn

oil on canvas

30x36in, SOLD

2010-09-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

Art washes away from  the soul 

the dust of everyday life. 

~Pablo Picasso

September, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

9x12in, 2010

available

2010-08-31T23:27:00.000-07:00

"September fattens on vines.
Roses flake from the wall.
The smoke of harmless fires drifts to my eyes.
This is plenty. This is more than enough."
- Geoffrey Hill

September

oil on canvas

30x40in, 2009

available

UPCOMING

2010-08-23T23:14:00.000-07:00

FALL CLASSES / WORKSHOPS

Painting with Oil
Foundation series addressing alla prima, wet in wet, glazing, colour, brushwork and mediums.

Spontaneous Sky

This series will address the the transient and optical effects of light and atmosphere. Paint skies incorporating alla prima and wet in wet techniques as well as glazing, scumbling and impasto.

Plein Air Landscape

Weather permitting, you will paint outdoors among vineyards, orchards and gardens. This exciting method of painting sharpens observation skills. Composition, value, colour, light, edges and atmospheric perspective will be addressed.

Encaustic Painting

Ancient and intriguing, this method of painting originated in Greece, where it was used for the
earliest easel and mural painting. A heady combination of colour,
melting wax and heat, encaustic mixes dry and oil pigments in hot beeswax.

Jan will demonstrate techniques including: fusion-'burning in', preparation of supports and grounds, glazing, layering and scraping, build up and texture, line and edge, collage and image transfer. Participants will explore these methods hands on with the expert guidance of the instructor.

For more info re dates/times, prices and registration, please email:
jan@janyates.com or visit: www.janyates.com

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2010-08-22T21:42:00.000-07:00

My Daughter turned 23 today—Happy Birthday Liah! Unfortunately (for me) she is living ‘across the pond’ In her younger years, to earn her keep, she had to model for me….A few excerpts from my ‘Big Girls/Little Girls’ series (excuse the poor photos)

Mother's Intuition

acrylic on canvas

48x60in, 1999

Man in the Mirror

oil on canvas

36x48in, 1999

The Day Molly got loose and chased Everyone out of the Pool

charcoal/conte

7x12in, 1999

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2010-08-21T09:36:00.000-07:00

“Remember to be gentle with yourself and others. We are all children of chance and none can say why some fields will blossom while others lay brown beneath the August sun. Kent Nerburn.

August Remains of the Day

oil on canvas
10x30in, available

2010-08-14T16:11:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wish that I were happy just to work in the studio as it sure would make things less cumbersome re hiking and lugging my gear. Alas, I find if I don’t get outside among the bugs, itchy grasses and sudden rain it just doesn’t complete me. I guess I like the challenge of making quick decisions from direct observation and I find I get to that ‘ high’ mentioned in the previous post in no time—mind you I lose it just as quickly, usually because of impatience. Art~making teaches us so much wherever we are.

There is a hill behind my property that I have painted just recently but I have not worked from it in years. Well I climbed it yesterday with my French easel, found a lovely shady location under the old apple tree (image a few posts ago), and I think I will work from there for a few paintings. I like looking downward and beyond and it is very close to my home so I can access it quickly~and vacate it quickly if need be…which is what I did in the image below to escape the storm. It is rendered on top of a few unsuccessful paintings~ I was waiting for an almost rainy day, as I wanted the texture from the old underpaintings to emulate rain.

August

oil on canvas

10x30in, 2010

available

2010-08-11T21:51:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I was commissioned to paint a ‘wild’ garden. The client has a number of my paintings and loves my style, which always makes it easier—actually I refuse commissions if the interested party is not familiar with my work. I think most of us agree that we put added pressure on ourselves when it comes to a commission. Personally speaking I want to envision and embody what the client ‘sees’ and for them to embrace my response.

As research for this commission I visited a number of gardens for possible paint sites and forwarded these images to the client. In his reply it was clear that he was worried re a disconnect in our ‘vision’. Here I was concerned about representing specific gardens, and did he want a road, or building, in the background etc. In turn, he envisioned a visual smorgasboard of colour, movement, and life through shapes, line, colour and texture and for the culmination to take him to other places-I was so relieved!

Even with carte blanche to ‘go for it’ I still require a starting off point, and I work out what to incorporate and where..So over the last few weeks I have been painting small studies of colour and movement from my own garden, which was liberating because I know it so well. Below is an example. I’ve also been plucking up these sacrificial flowers as reference and my studio is filled with honey jars of individual blossoms. Some wilt faster than others so I really have to coordinate my timing re flower picking and painting!

When I immerse myself into the physicality of painting it is in anticipation of the ‘endorphin’ high-where the painting takes over and transcends. For me the only way to achieve this as well as a meditative state in the studio is through guaranteed big- fat- chunks- of time—time with absolutely no interruptions other than bathroom breaks, food and water. ( I'd be fine in jail if I could bring my paints!) I always begin my workday with a long dog run in the field to inspire me -and to wear them out so I can work work work. I am hoping to have that, and the painting, finished (and approved) soon! Then maybe the air will cool and my schedule will clear and I can get back out for some fresh plein air.

August, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

8x10in, SOLD

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2010-08-06T21:34:00.000-07:00

"Summer's lease hath all too short a date."
- William Shakespeare

August, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

16x20in, SOLD

2010-08-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

HAPPY AUGUST

The last few days have seen me holed up inside doing ‘art business’ i.e. the dreaded artist statement/submissions etc—a nightmare- for me at least. Part of it though was researching other artists and I came across some really inspiring quotes from one of my my ‘art heroes’ Emily Carr. So I thought I’d share and have listed them below.
Also, an ‘August’ painting rendered a few years ago –the one that ‘got away’ so to speak.. I don’t know about other artists, but there are some paintings I wish I had of hung on to- this is one of them…

August, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas, triptych
36x36in, 2007

SOLD

EMILY CARR QUOTATIONS

How badly I want that nameless thing! First there must be an idea, a feeling... Maybe it was an abstract idea that you've got to find a symbol for, or maybe it was a concrete form that you have to simplify or distort to meet your ends, but that starting point must pervade the whole.”

“The spirit must be felt so intensely that it has power to call others in passing, for it must pass, not stop in the pictures.”

“There are no words, no paints to express all this, only a beautiful dumbness in the soul, life speaking to life.” “

I think that one's art is a growth inside one. I do not think one can explain growth. It is silent and subtle. One does not keep digging up a plant to see how it grows.” “

I was not ready for abstraction. I clung to earth and her dear shapes, her density, her herbage, her juice. I wanted her volume, and I wanted to hear her throb.”

Be careful that you do not write or paint anything that is not your own, that you don't know in your own soul.”

“There is a need to go deeper, to let myself go completely, to enter into the surroundings in the real fellowship of oneness, to lift above the outer shell, out into the depth and wideness where God is the recognized centre and everything is in time with everything, and the key-note is God.”

“Look at the earth crowded with growth, new and old bursting from their strong roots hidden in the silent, live ground, each seed according to its own kind... each one knowing what to do, each one demanding its own rights on the earth... So, artist, you too from the deeps of your soul... let your roots creep forth, gaining strength.”

2010-07-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

I might have mentioned this once or twice but what I find enlightening in painting on open land is that I am in the midst of so very many creatures ‘unseen’ -their continued presence entirely dependent on our land’s eco system.

This is a very old apple tree and has been the focus of many of my works throughout the years. It is host to numerous birds who nest in it and use it for cover in increment weather. The apples are also fodder for deer and yes, sometimes dogs :O. Needless to say, this little hill that it is perched on has been climbed many times by both four and two -legged critters.

July

oil on canvas

36x36in, 2010

available

2010-07-24T18:20:00.000-07:00

I worked on this painting last July and put it away with the intention of resuming later in the month. Something about it was really bothering me but I was too close. Today after returning from a walk in the field and seeing all of the thistles in bloom (with yellow finches feeding on them) I thought of the painting. I took it out and after applying and wiping out several times, I just signed it.

July

oil on canvas
20x30in, 2009/10

SOLD

2010-07-23T09:22:00.000-07:00

This painting is representative of a body of work that is ongoing- exploring our connection with the seasons of the land and the seasons of our lives. Listed below is a simple but to me so deeply true poem - no matter the denomination or what beliefs one has I think it says it all

July, A Time to Every Purpose Under the Sun

oil on canvas

24x48in, 2009

SOLD

To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the sun:

A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to get, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to cast away;
A time to rend, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate;
A time of war, and a time of peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

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2010-07-19T21:25:00.000-07:00

Today on my walk I had to catch my breath at the site of Queen Anne's lace embellishing the fields. They usually arrive in August and I suppose I didn't think that they, too, would be early.
When I lived in California I was taken aback to learn it was common for florists to have this 'weed' imported- these wild flowers that grow here in abundant splendor and remind us that summer is in full swing.

August, Morning With Queen Anne

acrylic on canvas
12x24in, 2009
SOLD

2010-07-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

One thing about living up here on the escarpment--the temperature is always a few degrees lower, which is great in the summer-not so in winter! So even on these sweltering days, the evenings cool down and tonight was accompanied by a refreshing breeze--thankfully no gusts to knock my easel over :X

July, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas
18x24in, 2010
available

2010-07-10T19:12:00.000-07:00

After a week of no rain and steaming hot weather, relief came yesterday in a day-long downpour. As a result, today's sunshine brought new wild grasses and flowers, my favourite being clover, thistle and chicory. Their vivid and varied patterns and colours, as well as light movement in the breeze, tantalized yellow finches and butterflies. It was a pleasure watching them feed as I painted—nature’s so ALL WAYS in sync!

July

oil on canvas
12x24in, 2010

2010-07-07T18:44:00.000-07:00

These warm July evenings bring a special yearning for my Daughter, who moved to Ireland a few years ago. Although I usually work from life, the image below was painted from a photograph taken by her just before she flew across the pond. LUMU Liah

July, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

30x36in, SOLD

2010-07-03T20:01:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful afternoon—ideal for a plein air painter I think! The acre of property I live on backs into an open field and my neighbour has let us use it for many years. Beside me is a vineyard, and I had very kind neighbours who let me paint in them undisturbed. Now I have new neighbours who are always out working the property with their assortment of machines –as I write this (at night) they are spraying yet again with pesticide(?). Anyway, they were gone for the day so I set up my easel and painted undisturbed for hours and hours—was wonderful! The field where I painted from had been freshly cut so it smelled DIVINE! The only snag was the wind- whoever invented bungie cords deserves a medal.

July, Greenbelt Disaster

oil on canvas
18x24in, 2010
available

2010-06-28T20:04:00.000-07:00

Today was another stifling, sweltering humid day and tonight my student and I really had to push ourselves to get out and paint. As often happens, once we found our way to open sky and started working we felt much better. The air cleared and cooled and it turned into a beautiful evening.

June, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

available

2010-06-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I posted an image that I wasn't sure I was happy with. When I post images it really gets me away from the work, allowing much needed objectivity. Well, I removed the post shortly after as I saw almost immediately what the painting lacked. I worked on it today and am much happier with the outcome.

Time to leave work for a week or so is ideal. Right now I have four paintings on the go and this usually helps me to stand back with a fresh eye if I work on them alternately. Easier said than done--some get in your blood and you just have to stay with them--sometimes regrettably- but worth the sacrifice as they always teach me something.

June

oil on canvas
18x24in, 2010
available

2010-06-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

Today I saw a large transport hauling bales of hay. Usually in June the field behind where I live is turned, but so far no hay. I wonder if it is because we have had so much rain. Every year I paint hay bales from this field I know so well. The birds have finished nesting and now the carpet of clover is rolled up to be recycled for livestock bedding and food. The vast size of the round bales provide a perfect place to hide and paint, and I relish in the fresh-cut scent as I am working. Here is a wee oil sketch from last June.

June

oil on canvas
9x12in, 2009

2010-06-22T21:35:00.000-07:00

This one's for you Robyn, as per your comment on the earlier post. ( and yes, there is a story..)

Finally, My Hollyhocks!

oil on canvas

24x40in, 2008

private collection

2010-06-19T19:35:00.000-07:00

This kind of day—humid, sticky and stifling- can turn into a perfectly pleasant evening and I took advantage. After the usual Saturday chores I headed out around 5PM for the back field and wasn’t disappointed. The air had cooled and freshened and was filled with my favorite a capella bird melodies.

I think that is what I find most enticing about being in an open field. You know that it is home to so very many creatures but the colours and textures camouflage them so well.

June, Greenbelt Disaster

oil on canvas
12x12in, 2010
available

I didn’t realize how long I was out until the sky really started to churn and I heard thunder nearby. It was a scramble to get my shoes back on, gather my gear, round up the dogs and make my way home- as I write this it still hasn’t rained.

2010-06-18T17:41:00.000-07:00

I have been working outside all week on some larger paintings. It is important for me to paint in the same light, so they are not yet finished. For a ‘quick fix’- a wee field painting...

June (Greenbelt Disaster)

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

available

2010-06-16T09:07:00.000-07:00

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SUMMER PLEIN AIR

With the warm season I am continuing Plein Air (painting outside on location) landscape classes Monday and Wednesday evenings.

This is a very colourful time of year and you will be inspired to paint skies, orchards, vineyards and gardens.

The series are ongoing and held in Grimsby on the Niagara Escarpment.

For a course description and to sign up, please click here

2010-06-11T17:06:00.000-07:00

The June fields here are a show of pink and green-more so this year because of all the rain. It's a good enough reason to play with rose madder and cadmium yellow light. And, thanks to the rain, the cloud-scapes have been spectacular and ever-changing.

June

oil on canvas

12x24in, 2010

available

2010-06-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

Are we not all tied to the seasons and the cycle of harvest, and intimately connected to the turning skies?

June, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas, 30x36in

reserved

2010-06-08T20:11:00.000-07:00

June is ‘the door of the year’, the gateway to inner realms. In the goddess calendar the first 12 days of June belong to Hera.
European folklore tells us that: good weather in ‘Flaming June’ is required if there is to be a good harvest; bats flying on a June evening are a sign of hot, dry weather, and if swallows fly near the ground in June it’s a sign of coming rain.

June, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas, 12x36in

SOLD

2010-06-07T19:49:00.000-07:00

"I wonder what it would be like to live in a world where it was always June."

- L. M. Montgomery

June ( a pretty good day so far)

oil on canvas

24x24in, 2010, available

2010-06-03T21:53:00.000-07:00

Considering the weather here in Niagara, I thought it appropriate to post this little painting.

June, After Rain

oil/ beeswax on panel

8x10in, 2009, SOLD

2010-06-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

Happy June

I was finally able to get out in the garden ( to actually garden, NOT paint). June always puts me in mind of the poem made famous by Jenny Joseph (who was young when she wrote it!). I never understood the worldwide phenomenon of the Red Hat Society, as this poem is clearly about NON-conformity.

When I am an Old Woman

encaustic on canvas, 28x46in, 2000, private collection

Warning

byJenny Joseph

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple

With a red hat which doesn't go, and doesn't suit me.

And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves

And satin sandals, and say we've no money for butter.

I shall sit down on the pavement when I'm tired

And gobble up samples in shops and press alarm bells

And run my stick along the public railings

And make up for the sobriety of my youth.

I shall go out in my slippers in the rain

And pick flowers in other people's gardens

And learn to spit.

You can wear terrible shirts and grow more fat

And eat three pounds of sausages at a go

Or only bread and pickle for a week

And hoard pens and pencils and beermats and things in boxes.

But now we must have clothes that keep us dry
And pay our rent and not swear in the street

And set a good example for the children.

We must have friends to dinner and read the papers.

But maybe I ought to practice a little now?

So people who know me are not too shocked and surprised

When suddenly I am old, and start to wear purple.

2010-05-28T16:59:00.000-07:00

One of our last May days..

May

acrylic on panel

6x8in, 2010

available

2010-05-26T23:50:00.000-07:00

It is hard to post this image tonight. I went out early in the day to stay cool before the heat and humidity set in. We (dogs and myself) found a breezy spot under the shade of a young tree and the atmosphere was really beautiful. The painting came together fairly quickly and hopefully caught some colour and light..we set off home on a chartreuse path laden with sun-yellow wild mustard, white bright wild daisies and magenta flox. I got in the door and and there was a call from the hospital. So I spent the remains of the day and night in such a grim, desperate and foreign environment- an environment that so many are sadly and unjustly so very familiar with. I suppose I feel that it is almost a kind of sick (pun intended) joke that is being played on us.. colour and light juxtaposed against dark, grey monochrome..

May

oil on panel

6x8in, 2010

2010-05-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

The vineyard I have revisited--many times. And I will continue to do so-for many reasons. This particular image was worked over an existing painting that wasn't taking me anywhere. I like to do this, as the texture from the under-painting's brushwork as well as colours affect the current work.

May

oil on canvas

16x20in, 2010

available

2010-05-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

'Look deep, deep, deep into nature, and then you will understand everything' Albert Einstein

May, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

8x10in, 2010

available

2010-05-19T21:16:00.000-07:00

It felt good to get out at twilight. The culmination of this May day was perfect. The little voices of birds settling and aroma of sweet new grass - heaven. Thankfully the swallows polished off most of the annoying midges so I didn’t even have to pluck them from my wet painting... couldn't ask for more..

May, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

10x12in, 2010

available

2010-05-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

"Another widespread belief suggests that trees are inhabited by guardian spirits, which control the natural forces responsible for weather conditions, that can cause the crops to flourish or to fail.

May, oil on canvas, 24x48in, 2010, available

Since fertilizing rain is paramount to ensuring the fruitfulness of the earth, fertility festivals centered on trees were usually held in the spring or prior to the rainy season. Even in Europe, until quite recently such festivities were quite common and can still be found today as folkloric remnants in many rural areas. "
- Kat Morgenstern

2010-05-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

"The folk celebrations of early May in Europe began as a celebration of life and fertility, the time for planting of crops and vegetable gardens, and for the regeneration of life that comes with increased sunlight.

Beltane is derived from the Celtic word for 'brilliant fire.'

May, Remains of the Day, 36x36in, 2009, SOLD

Many of the so-called folk or pagan festivals and days of observance were tied to the solar and lunar cycles and the great cycles of life. By the start of May, most trees are in full leaf, many Spring flowers are in bloom and the Earth is brimming with both plant and animal life taking advantage of the high sun levels and ever warmer temperatures." May Day - The Weather Doctor

2010-05-13T20:13:00.000-07:00

For the past week the May days here in Southern Ontario have been cool, windy and changeable to say the least..

a somewhat turbulent culmination at days' end

May, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

10x30in, 2010

available

2010-05-10T19:29:00.000-07:00

And of course the Lilacs, too, are early this year..

June

oil on canvas

20x24in, 2009

SOLD

2010-05-08T10:40:00.000-07:00

Mothers Day

This painting was rendered in the fall, but I thought it appropriate considering the date and it's title.

Mom, oil on canvas, 8x10in, 2009, private collection

Black eyed Susans, Chickory and Queen Anne’s lace symbolize my Mom’s love of nature. Right now my Mom is going through one of the worst ordeals of her life and she is the bravest person I know. I am so very very proud of her and so very thankful that she is My Mom. I could never begin to articulate everything she means to me or the many things that she has accomplished and what she has sacrificed for me over my life—I just can’t fathom how I would have turned out without her devotion and support…although to be honest,
she might have had an easier time had I conformed just a little.. An example-in my young adulthood when I went flying across the country with stars in my eyes and she had to arrange a return flight for home almost as soon as I arrived, she stated” Oh Janet, can’t you do anything conventional?’ Love you so much Mom.

2010-05-07T20:11:00.000-07:00

Today was a day of endings and new beginnings.

May

oil on canvas

8x10in, 2010

available

I finished up a few plein air studies rendered last week and finally completed a large commission that I REALLY struggled with over the past few months. I can't post it yet as it is a surprise for the recipient. So now I am free once more to follow my own intuition re concept and direction. Freedom comes at a high price but it's worth every penny.

2010-05-06T18:35:00.000-07:00

I went out for a bit today and managed to regain the original feel of the painting that I thought was lost forever due to the abrupt force of dog.
A little 'hair of the dog' is good though...

May

oil on canvas

14x16in, 2010

available

2010-05-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

I had intended on posting some new plein air work as I was able to get out yesterday for a few hours… It was joyous to be back out in the sun and clouds-working to the songs of birds. My painting was coming along beautifully and I couldn’t wait to see it once back in the studio...

May, A Really Good Day, oil on canvas, 12x12in, 2009

Alas, after hiking all the way back , fate intercepted. On my way up the stairs my darling Rubyblue dog ran into the side of my wet painting...sometimes things are just not in the stars and you have to let them go.

But I HAVE TOMORROW! ALL DAY! YAY!!!!

2010-05-03T22:32:00.000-07:00

Dark, negative and unsettling circumstances beyond control have taken precedence over my family’s life for the past few weeks and I have been so very hungry for a glimmer of hope. I found it today in my routine walk-sometimes I call these daily excursions my ‘salvation hikes’-such was today.

Hence the absolute power of nature-my birds were back! I have been looking –actually listening-for them lately, wondering if they, too, would arrive early for spring. And they had! The unmistakable " bubbling delirium of ecstatic music that flows from the gifted throat like sparkling champagne," "a mad, reckless song-fantasia, an outbreak of pent-up, irrepressible glee," and "a tinkle of fairy music, like the strains of an old Greek harp."

My Bobolinks! Bold as brass, these yellow headed, black and white birds scolded my dogs for coming too close as they perched low in the grasses. They’ve earned this sense of entitlement I suppose, having made one of the longest migrations in the Western Hemisphere—a round trip of approximately 20,000-km from Brazil, Paraguay, and northern Argentina!
For me, the arrival of these birds have symbolized a turn for the better and reinforced my faith in optimism, which spring is, is it not? Now for eternal optimism…

May (Bob)

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

2010-05-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

Happy May!

I still haven't been able to get out to paint and it is really driving me mad! This is my favourite time of the year--I wait in anticipation--and unfortunately life has just gotten in the way lately--hopefully my schedule will ease up soon. In the meantime, this is one of my favourite paintings. A little loose for some, but I respond to the immediacy, colours, shapes and push/pull. Painted last year.

May

oil on canvas

18x18in, 2009

2010-04-29T21:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the encaustic workshop went really well and my students created some spectacular work! They inspired me so much that after the workshop I just –kept on working!

Garden Corner 1

encaustic on panel

10x16in, 2010

available

Continuing in my seasonal garden series, this year’s works are titled ‘Garden Corner’. Flowers, seed packets and seeds are now preserved forever, planted and embroidered in rich layers of natural beeswax. I also incorporated fresh dandelions (really like the abstract qualities of their leaves), forsythia and wild violets. Because this medium cuts off all oxygen, the colour of the flowers remain intact.

Garden Corner 2

encaustic on panel

10x16in, 2010

available

Ancient and intriguing, this method of painting originated in Greece, where it was used for the earliest easel and mural painting. A heady combination of colour, melting wax and heat, encaustic mixes dry and oil pigments in hot beeswax.

Garden Corner 3

encaustic on panel

6x10in, 2010

available

To read more about this luscious medium, please click here. If you would like to sign up for one of my workshops, just email me.

a HOT pallet

finally, a REASON TO IRON!

Masterpieces by Danna Hawke

'Dance', David Hallet

'Spring', David Hallet

2010-04-26T20:23:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted new work in awhile. My mother has had a health setback but is on the mend, which means that I will be painting again soon:-)

April, Waiting for May

oil on canvas

24x36in, 2009

SOLD

2010-04-20T18:01:00.000-07:00

In organizing my portfolio I found this little painting--rendered ten years ago!!!! It was the first in my escarpment fruit tree series, and close to my heart as I see it every day in every season on our back hill. I thought I'd post it. It is an apple tree and still bears fruit. Kath I hope you are enjoying it>>>

May

oil on canvas

5x7in, 2000

private collection

2010-04-18T18:13:00.000-07:00

The drive through the country to our gallery is beautiful any time of the year, but today I was absolutely astounded at the amount of orchards in bloom! White billows spinning and dancing, rejoicing in all things new.

May, Cherry Trees

oil on canvas

20x30in, 2009

SOLD

Plein Air Warning

2010-04-15T21:38:00.000-07:00

This early spring's sunshine, balmy air and wild green grasses come at a steep price for those of us who insist on painting them on location...

April, Waiting for May

oil on canvas, 18x24in

SOLD

The dreaded tick is alive and well in my neck of the woods, so to speak. I refuse to go into detail regarding these disgusting and sometimes debilitating (Lyme disease) parasites, but just be careful--check your clothes, your paints and your pets!!!!

2010-04-12T07:43:00.000-07:00

June, Remains of the Day (Kyleakin, Isle of Skye)

oil on canvas

9x12in, 2009, Private Collection

This painting was rendered on the Isle of Skye, literally under the Skye bridge, facing
Gavin Maxwell's last home before his death, from cancer, too young. He was a naturalist and wonderful author, and is best known for his trilogy, 'Ring of Bright Water, which involves otters....

Last night , by accident as often happens in blogland, I found an amazing journal by Melanie McDonald. She is an artist from Cornwall, UK, who, along with her 'Scottish Husband' as she refers to him, and daughter Skye (yes, named after the Isle) now live in Brittney, France. Her husband was diagnosed with cancer, and she openly shares her feelings and journey as they go through this life change.

As well, you can view her remarkable paintings. She has rendered a series of Scotland paintings, which I respond to as it is close to my heart. Take a look, but be prepared to spend some time over a cup of tea or glass of wine.. http://gauguinsloft.blogspot.com/

2010-04-11T17:25:00.000-07:00

What beautiful weather we are having! The tree posted below is along a pathway behind my home on the Niagara Escarpment and I pass it on daily hikes . Every spring I paint this little tree--and every year the paintings become larger as the tree grows. (not rendered the same scale as the actual tree.. mind you I find that idea inspiring!) I am hoping it will bloom again this season. Last year we had a horrible hail storm ...there are a few buds and I am keeping my fingers crossed...

May

oil on canvas

16x20in

available

To my students who are coming out tomorrow night for some plein air--wear rubber boots..it is MUDDY

2010-04-07T23:25:00.000-07:00

Class Update

SPRING PLEIN AIR

May, Cherry trees, acrylic on canvas

30x36in, SOLD

With the early warm season I am offering Plein Air (painting outside on location) classes Monday evenings, commencing April 12.

This is a very colourful time of year and you will be inspired to paint skies, orchards, vineyards and gardens!

The series are ongoing -just sign up for a minimum of three sessions, from 6:30~8:30PM. Participants bring their own paint (oil, acrylic, pastel). Classes are held at my Grimsby studio, located on the Niagara Escarpment.
For a course description and to sign up, please click here

2010-04-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love forsythia?..even the name! Every spring I paint it in homage to the promise of colour and renewal for the upcoming months. The painting below was rendered last year...the bush is brimming with buds for this year's painting..any day now:-)

April

oil on board

6x16in, SOLD

2010-04-03T18:16:00.000-07:00

April, Waiting for May

Actually the weather has not provided blossoms YET--I just couldn't wait! This larger painting is from some small plein air studies rendered last May.

oil on canvas

36x36in, 2010

SOLD

TV Interview

2010-03-31T21:30:00.000-07:00

This Land is OUR Land

Myself and two other artists, Kim Rempel and Michelle Teitsma, have been working for the past year on a project researching the impact of the Greenbelt legisltion in Southern Ontario. There is a link to our venture on the right of this blog (Greenbelt Collective) or click here.

A local television show recently approached and interviewed us in response to the plight of area grape farmers and you can view the Utube interview on that link.

A big THANK YOU to Stephen Parr and TV Cogeco!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I have been exercising great restraint in NOT going outside to paint this week.

- self discipline goes a long way in art-making (and life in general:D

I have been working on some larger paintings in the studio and really need to stay in the same frame of mind. Sometimes switching off to render small works just takes me away from a place that took me so long to get to...

So I am posting some wee encaustic field boxes that I created last April. The images were drawn or painted on-site and then I employed the encaustic technique to permanently fuse them to wooden boxes. To see more of my encaustic series, please click here.

April, Little Voices in the Air

encaustic on box

6x9in, SOLD

April, Waiting For May

encaustic on box

6x9in, SOLD

April

encaustic on box

6x9in, SOLD

2010-03-24T19:46:00.000-07:00

I painted this on a March day very much like yesterday, but four years ago!

I like to review paintings of seasons past and compare them to current weather patterns here on the Niagara Escarpment..

March, Thaw

oil on canvas

12x36in, 2006

SOLD

2010-03-20T09:08:00.000-07:00

Even though I've been working on a large commission for the last week, I find getting out and working on these small paintings integral to my practice. They not only give me 'immediate gratification' because it is something I can accomplish in a short time, but they contribute to my larger studio work. Mainly to hone my observation skills but also allowing me an objective approach when revisiting larger works in progress.

March, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

12x12in, 2010

available

Having said that, this was my first night painting of the season and a little daunting. I didn't go out until 6PM and for once left the dogs at home. I felt a little guilty but the thought of chasing after them in the dark if they found a deer or who who knows what, did not appeal to me in the least. The mud was like quick sand, and by the time I finished working my feet almost came out of my wellies!:-) Although it was warm during the day it did get fairly chilly but I am glad I ventured out and next time will be easier.

2010-03-17T21:16:00.000-07:00

March, Thaw

oil on panel

6x8in, 2010

available

2010-03-14T20:13:00.000-07:00

To me, Spring is flown in via Robins and every year I have painted them to honour the new season. Today when I opened the door I first heard- then saw-my friends and was thrilled! Five generations (at least I like to think that they are all related) come to nest at the same selected locations on our property. Two come back to their nests in the grapevine balls hanging on my veranda. Throughout the years students, visitors, and I have enjoyed getting ‘up close and personal’ while they diligently nest and bring up the babies! So, as beautiful as they are, if you see a nest in a tree or fastened to twigs or grasses, please refrain from picking them up as birds often return to them year after year.

March, Little Voices in the Air
oil on canvas
30x36in, 2008
SOLD

The painting below is rendered more decorative than I usually like to work. I had specifically painted it for my area at the Jordan Art Gallery to emphasize the thematic change of season. For those that haven’t visited our gallery, each of the owners have a large area and change work on an on-going basis. Right now I am in the process of removing winter paintings and replacing them with more colourful landscapes depicting the new growth on the Niagara Escarpment…which means only one thing…I’ll just have to get out and paint:-D

March, Little Voices in the Air

acrylic on canvas

24x36in, 2009

available

2010-03-13T21:24:00.000-08:00

March, Thaw

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

will really have to take a better pic tomorrow..

2010-03-11T17:17:00.000-08:00

Two abandoned orchards are situated on property behind my Escarpment home and I walk through them almost daily. Every spring I am apprehensive - sure that this will be the year they’ll be pulled out.

For me, these rows of trees stretched against the sky and the wild overgrown grasses have an other- worldliness, a place where I can breathe and listen and be. Amongst these sturdy little trees I have had the pleasure of watching and listening to red-winged blackbirds and robins ring in the fresh new season and later, finches, catbirds, mockingbirds and (my favourite) bobolinks-flitting in the wild branches and singing songs of summer.

March, Greenbelt Disaster

oil on panel

6x8in, 2010

Ten years ago when I moved here the orchards were maintained and every season after a stunning show of white blooms, they bore beautiful bartlett pears. In recent years, however, they’ve been left to go fallow because farmers can’t afford to maintain them. Sadly, it’s cheaper to import from China than to compensate farmers for growing fruit in our own back yard!

PLEASE! Buy local and try to buy food that is in season from Local Growers!!!! For more information please visit: Greenbelt Collective

2010-03-10T19:57:00.000-08:00

Today was not as warm as yesterday, but there was a beautiful soft blue haze in the distance. The sky, though subtle, continued to move and shift, casting nuances of pink, yellow and blue onto the earth and leftover snow.

March, A Changeable Day

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

available

2010-03-09T16:43:00.000-08:00

This afternoon the air was filled with songs of birds and smelled of sweet things growing. The light was diffused and dreamy in the late day sun, and I was lucky enough to see three young deer floating in the orchard. I couldn’t wait to start painting.

Unfortunately, when I unpacked my gear, my yellows were nowhere in site!!!!!! But I soldiered on anyway, using red, orange, indigo, violet and ultramarine blue.

March, Little Voices in the Air

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

available

It did change the feel of the painting! I do like the composition and may go out again and paint from the same vantage point--this time with cadmium yellow light and cadmium yellow included with my gear:-)

2010-03-07T15:21:00.000-08:00

March, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

12x36in, 2010

I'm having a difficult time documenting this as I can't seem to capture the subtle nuances of value shifts in the background when I edit with my photo editor. I really should take some time and learn how to do this, and to take photos with proper indoor lighting. I just take work outside on a grey day and lay it flat. Easy for small works but larger I have to stand on a chair or ladder--I'm sure my neighbours must get a chuckle:-) Anyone have advice that's not too left brain?

2010-03-02T20:06:00.000-08:00

Thank Goodness February is over!

March, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

available
purchase here

2010-02-28T09:43:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking about summer and skies, longing for colour and warmth.

June, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

24x24in, SOLD

This as an early painting from my 'Remains of the Day' series. It is exhilarating to paint these plein air works as you are literally working 'blind' as the sun quickly descends beyond the horizon.

I usually work on a ground of alizarine crimson and start building the painting an hour or two before the actual 'event' occurs. Just as the sky vibrates it's colours and reflections of the days' culmination, I am doing so with paint. Then, with only 10 minutes at most, I follow the sun with my brush, not seeing but 'feeling' my way.

Gathering up my gear in the dark isn't so much fun..at that time all of the man-eating bugs are out in full force and keeping an eye out for skunks is no easy task as you're stumbling home with wet canvas and gear in tow. I'm always excited to see my work once back the studio --it's a mad rush to open the door, get the lights on and see what's happened on the canvas!

2010-02-27T22:42:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been reviewing Bonnard’s paintings—one of my all-time favourites! Initially it was for a ‘colour kick’ after all the winter monochrome. Yes, hands down Bonnard was one of the most ingenious colourists, and I’ve always liked his compositions. What initially looks like a coloured shape often turns into a dog, plate, or person. This optical trick of the eye is what does it for me and most if it is done via pure colour patterns divided into many subtle values.

Waiting for Arugula

oil on canvas

12x12in, 2010

Another artist and myself have been researching organic farms for a project involving farming on the Greenbelt. Today we visited a lovely small farm in Beamsville, Ontario. The owner gave us a tour of her hoop house, where she grows salad greens in winter. She then led us to the chicken coop and proceeded to feed these lively –and spoiled- birds arugula from her indoor garden! We took some eggs home - with a diet like that they are sure to be delicious:-)

2010-02-24T14:33:00.000-08:00

I have been a little tired of the winter and not particularly inspired. Instead I have been in the studio working on my encaustic series. I just could not, however, resist the temptation of today. The sun was SO warm...stayed out for a few hours, and when I got back into the house and checked my messages, the gallery called to let me know of another painting sale! A pretty good day so far--will see what tonight brings:-)

February, A Pretty Good day (so far)

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010, SOLD

available purchase here

2010-02-19T21:19:00.000-08:00

February, Greenbelt Disaster

oil on canvas

18x24in, 2010

In the foreground is a vineyard on the Niagara Escarpment in Jordan, Ontario. Beyond stood another vineyard--recently torn out because growers can no longer afford to farm it.

There is a group who claim that regulations implemented by the Greenbelt legislation puts constraints on their land and what they can and can not do with it. Some have set fire to their vineyards in response and are calling this the 'Greenbelt Disaster'. For more information, please visit Greenbelt Collective.

2010-02-17T10:25:00.000-08:00

March

oil on beeswax

12x12in, 2007

SOLD

Lately I have been revisiting earlier works. If I am feeling lost in my artistic journey (which is part of process I think) , studying past works that still reverberate in my being affirms faith in my intuition.

2010-02-13T19:51:00.000-08:00

All Dressed Up, Nowhere to Go

oil on beeswax

8x10in, 2008

Today I attended an inspirational event called ‘seedy Saturday. There were talks on heirloom gardening and presentations by The Cottage Gardener, Urban Harvest, Tree and Twig and the Garden of Eating (Niagara project, through which hundreds of pounds of fruit, which would otherwise have gone unpicked, was donated to area food banks). As well, very informative organizations promoting organic farming, including the National Farmers Union and Ecological Farmers Association. Of course seeds were exchanged and there were lots there to purchase.

All this talk of fruit and vegetables has given me a creative kick start to continue my encaustic Liberty Garden series.

Liberty Garden

encaustic on box

6x12in, 2009

SOLD

images from past gardens in my ‘Food for Thought’ series:

Tangled up in Blue Love

oil on canvas oil on canvas

12x40in, 200: 12x40in, 2007

SOLD

2010-02-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

The late winter season does not stand favourably for my general well being. I find myself really having to push to begin new larger work and inspiration comes in ebbs and flows.

This February ‘flue’ seems to flare up after I have completed a large studio painting. After the excitement of it’s completion, and the sadness to see it go, I feel lost and in limbo.

So I ‘self medicate’ with these wee canvases. Chances are I can start and finish fairly quickly and my symptoms are eased for a few hours at least.

*And the fresh air does one a world of good:-)

February, A pretty Good Day so far

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

available
purchase here

2010-02-07T22:32:00.000-08:00

February

oil on canvas

36x48in, 2010

I'm compelled to depict the same locale in the same scale in all four seasons. Below is a spring version . Two more to go.

May

oil on canvas

36x48in, 2009

SOLD

2010-02-02T20:04:00.000-08:00

February

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

The division between sky and land has always held my interest. They merge, yet remain separate. The horizon line is my measuring point and I rely on it to balance my compositions.
I gaze at it to balance my mind and heart.

available
purchase here

2010-01-31T08:42:00.000-08:00

ART FOR AUCTION @ JORDAN ART GALLERY

June and Joan

oil on canvas, 2009
18x25in, SOLD

This is a painting from my garden series that is up for auction at the Jordan Art Gallery for the month of February. To view works available or to bid, click here

*re the title 'June and Joan'

my good friend of over 30 years' name is Joan, and she LOVES poppies--actually

loves anything red. And in June I always think of her and the summers of our

youth..

When I was riding my bike a few years ago I met a woman who was gardening

and we had a lovely long chat about flowers and she took me around her

garden telling me stories of how she acquired her plants--as is often the

case, they were from friends and each had a story.

She gave me the poppy seeds and the following June these glorious flowers

appeared..out I went with my paint box ... the garden of our youth ain't over yet Joan:-)

2010-01-28T22:12:00.000-08:00

Emily Carr

Students, peers and collectors often ask me who my influences are, so here’s the answer. This is ongoing as they invariably evolve as I grow as an artist. I can tell you though that the first influence that significantly changed my life in regards to pursuing my art was the work and life of Mary Cassatt. That was over twenty years ago. Since, the Impressionists and post-- Cézanne, Van Gogh, Gaugan, and Degas-- then Munch, Klimt, Turner, Bonnard, Chagall—so many. After moving back to Canada I have garnered immense respect for Emily Carr as well as the Group of Seven. Painting the landscape on site and against all of the elements is challenging for any artist, but when I think of how they ‘weathered’ the Canadian wilderness back then. WOW.

Currently there are two landscape artists whose work I admire for their passion, honesty and integrity. One is Scottish artist Ken Bushe. He lives and breathes sky, air, water and land. I look at his work and feel him in it and it in him. The other is Canadian artist Bruno Cote. His response to Canadian landscape is exuberant colour, pattern, shape and pure joy and exaltation of all that is around him.

'Nature is not only all that is visible to the eye.. it also includes the inner pictures of the soul.' Edvard Munch

2010-01-23T19:54:00.000-08:00

January, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

Today was one of the warmest days we've ever had in January, and again sunny with no wind--had to get out and paint!

available

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2010-01-22T19:18:00.000-08:00

January, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010

It was inevitable that the day's end sky colours would be saturated - evidence of another warm, sunny winter day (for January)

available

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2010-01-20T21:58:00.000-08:00

It was nice to get outside again to paint! I have been working in the studio on a large painting and needed the break. Luckily the weather was warm enough to accommodate me.

January, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

6x6in, 2010
SOLD

What a beautiful day it was today. Mild, a little sun and NO WIND! Went out around 4PM. Days end, and a warm winter one, brings out lots of creatures. I saw my mockingbird-friend, some chicadees and LOTS of deer footprints. Flocks and flocks of Canada geese flying low over the field, crows and hawks hunting mice. There has been one (hawk, not mouse) who has taken to perching on an old pear tree and he allows us to get up pretty close before he flies off. (maybe he's eying one of the dogs for his dinner!)

available

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2010-01-11T16:38:00.000-08:00

January, Gerd's Hill

oil on canvas

30x36in, 2009

SOLD

Today on my walk the snow was deep and silent. A day very much like a day last January, when I created the painting above.

2010-01-09T19:20:00.000-08:00

January, Remains of the Day

oil on canvas

20x20in, 2010

For the past week I have worked on this painting at the same time of day: 4:45PM until dark. During each day, the light has been different--mostly subdued and rather monochromatic. But even on those flat days, the culmination of light at days' end always delivers.

And the days are getting longer! :-D

(and I should also mention it was too cold for even Me to venture out. Painted looking out my studio window)

available

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"Summer's lease hath all too short a date."
- William Shakespeare