Saturday, September 28, 2013

Seeds of Autumn

Was on a bike ride with my husband and boys, and as often happens, I had to stop the bike to get a few photos. We were riding past huge fields of fall colors, everything seeding and looking beautiful. The blue sky and warm sunny day was just an added bonus.

11x14 Oil on Museum Quality Panel

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Unfurling Zinnia

We have been spending a lot of time by our zinnias this last week. There have been hummingbirds, hummingbird moths, and even a few monarchs visiting and collecting nectar. Captured a bunch of great photos and hope to paint more of them. Here is one of the zinnias just grabbing its first few breaths as it opens.

8x8 Oil on Museum Quality Panel

Sunday, September 15, 2013

Cafe Verrazano

My husband and I went to Florence before having our boys. We had more than one book on places to eat while there, and only one place we loved so much we had to go back twice. Cafe Verrazano was a hidden little gem of a place that you would hardly even notice if you weren't looking specifically for it.

I can still remember letting the waiter bring us whatever he wanted... The wine was amazing and had us hunting it down when we got home. He brought out the most delicious focaccia (panini) sampler that I tried numerous times to duplicate. And finally chocolate cake with fresh strawberries. Yum. We never wanted to leave.

Here it is! "Vini" must mean drink a bottle of wine with your lunch? DOCG, for you enthusiasts! 

8x10 Oil on Museum Quality Panel

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Trumpet Vine

These gorgeous vines are a sight to see! Long ago I wanted to plant one in my own yard, until I learned how powerful the vine is. I've seen them growing on tipped fences, bent posts, and even up trees. You would need a pretty stable structure to withhold the strength of this vine.

This painting just flowed so easily--love when that happens!

8x8 Oil on Museum Quality Panel

Sunday, September 1, 2013

Elephant Surfing

I have been busy doing a few commissioned pieces this past month. This piece is the third painting of elephants for this collector. The first two were a front and rear view in bright greens, blues, and yellows. For the last piece he wanted an image showing his son surfing an elephant. You know I am always thrilled to do elephant paintings and really appreciated the cool idea! 

Looking forward to seeing the three pieces together in a custom frame the owner will make himself. 

6x8 Oil on Museum Quality Panel