Wild rivers

The river is up in the canyon with all the rain. I spent some time painting and photographing. Was not successful but think I know how I would approach this subject next time. 

Summer time

Summer is a crazy time for me. We travel more and I

am not consistant with posting. I have taken two workshops. One with Lisa Grossman and one with Jean Cook. I find that both have added new direction to my painting. If it wasn't for photographing my work I would post more often. I find that to be the hardest part. 

I have also taken in many galleries this year. Most recently we went to the Sandzen to see Kim Casebeers' paintings. Amazing and wonderful Kansas landscapes. 

Simply Prairie

I have been painting larger lately. I still am working on the steer. His nose is giving me some trouble. But in the mean time I want to post this very simple prairie painting. I actually like it and have not had the urge to keep changing it.

What's on the Easel

I had a friend tell me not to quit painting animals. I have been doing mostly landscapes so took her advise and started a palette knife steer. This guy was along the road when we were in the flint hills. They had just stocked the pastures with steers to feed out this summer. They are sure curious when you stop to photograph them. 

Workshop

Just returned from a wonderful workshop at Pioneer Bluffs near Matfield Green, Ks. This small town is becoming an artist colony in the flint hills. The Gallery at Pioneer Bluffs is in the old farmhouse on the property. We met in the big white barn outback before we headed for the hills to paint. Lisa Grossman lead the workshop, check out her wonderful paintings on line. She loves the horizon and the distant view the prairie vistas offer. Had a wonderful two days on the prairie painting in the wind and cold. I'm much more comfortable painting plein air, like we are always told, practice, practice, practice. 

The Hutchinson Art Fair

The art fair has come and gone. I wonder how many artist do those shows on a regular basis. It's hard work and long hours standing on hard concrete. It is a good way to make new friends and sell some art work. Its hard to know when to stay out of the way or when to discusss the painting. I sold one of my 12x24" paintings and realize I don't have a good picture of it but it is in the upper right hand corner of my booth. 

Hutchinson Art Fair

My dinning room table is piled with paintings, unframed and sealed in bags. I hope to try these at the art fair May 10, 9-4. I thought keeping the price point low might let customers purchase an original oil painting. They can be put on a small easel or framed to fit their own decor. 

I also need to frame some larger 12x24" paintings for the show. This size is nice because they fit over a mantel or sofa for a big statement. 

I have really had fun painting lately because I'm trying to stop when I am happy with a piece and not fuss at it and wonder if it fits all the painterly rules.