A Great Book for Beginner and Seasoned Artists

My friend, Deborah Forman really knows how to teach artists. Years ago, she was my daughter's art teacher and helped get Brin ready to apply to art school. I was on the search committee to find a teacher for the Westport high school and when Deborah came in and showed a few lesson plans it was hard not to jump out of our chairs and scream YES! She's recently written a book called Paint Lab which is a collection of 52 exercises based on practicing artists work, materials and techniques. The lessons are short and manageable for a quick change of approach but have depth enough to carry you far in another direction if you're so inclined. It's a great book for new or experienced artists and the book includes exercises based on the work of Paul Klee, Helen Frankenthaler, Gerhard Richter, Frida Kahlo, Tom Sgouros, Neal T Walsh and I'm honored to say, Alyn Carlson. It's published by the same folks that are publishing my hat book, Quarry Press and my fabulous editor, Mary Ann Hall edited it. Check it out on Amazon, here.

Quarry also publishes a series of these books for children.

Each exercise takes up only one spread.

Deb used my Landscape No. 23 as her back cover art.

My Walk Tonight

I have a crush on Westport.

Sometimes I just want to hug the place.

Letting You in on a Little Secret

This past weekend, my open studio with South Coast Artists Tour was a wonderful experience. So many old and new friends stopped by. I sold 25 paintings and connected with many artists I greatly respect. One of my favorite moments was when a young woman bought two pieces and with a grin announced they were her first art acquisition. It was nice moments like that, that made it all worthwhile. 

Letting you in on a secret, sometimes I miss the applause and the audience presence from when I was performing in the theater. It's not why we make art but affirmation is a nice back rub after all the heavy lifting. This felt like the visual artist's version of it. I feel more connected to the folks who enjoy my art and this will be a annual event for me. Thanks for all the support!

With Paul's help the barn was transformed into a cozy gallery.
Photo by Paul Clancy

Photo by Paul Clancy

Photo by Paul Clancy

Feather In My Cap

I love the Curatorium on Wickenden in Providence. Owned (and curated) by industrial designer, Matt Bird, the store and Matt are always a delight, a surprise and inspiration. It is very difficult to leave his store empty handed. There is something there for E V E R Y ONE. I'm working on a few cloth hats for two spring weddings and these parrot feathers might be what I build them around. Naturally shed, (please, please birdies drop a few more) they raise money for the New England Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary. He doesn't always carry them and they go fast. I also thought you would like to see the work of Olympia Washington artist, Chris Maynard. Hmmmm I wonder what one of his feathers would look like in a hat?

Did I mention they are reversible?

Baby Water World Print Give Away and Sale

Beebee Eau Monde No.1

It seems like it's time for those little babies to start arriving. The daffodil buds are teasing us, the first little peepers are starting to peep in the ponds and friends are becoming mamas and papas. My friend Hannah just announced the arrival of her little Tristan Skye. To celebrate Tristan and all the new beanies, I'm offering some of my Beebee Eau Monde watercolors as prints. Two paintings to choose from, in two sizes. Printed on acid free, mould-made Hahnemuhle German Etching paper, the prints come in 8" x 8" for $75. and 15"x15" for $125. Perfect gift for your new favorite wee one. Plan on a two week delivery time with your choice of shipping separate.
AND to make the arrival of green buds even sweeter, I'll give away an 8"x8" print to the person who brings me the most new blog followers by April 1. 

Beebee Eau Monde No.2