Sonoma Meadow

"Sonoma Meadow"

Oil on Wood

12"X12"

A big patch of Queen Anne's Lace has popped up in the meadow. There is a lot to love about a  flower that takes root all by itself, requires no care, and dances in the breeze, its soft white blooms highlighted against the dark green evergreens, as celebratory as champagne bubbles on a summer afternoon.

Unfinished at the Met Breuer

Unfinished at the Met Breuer

(Lady with Orange Purse and Blue Hat Puts the Finishing Touch on Turner's
 "Sun Setting Over a Lake")

Oil on Wood

10"X10"

I took time out from bathing in babies and love this month to see "Unfinished" at the Met Breuer. It asks the question, "When is a work of art finished?" Answer: Never. For me, paintings come to life when viewers approach and view and look and contemplate and glide on by. When shadows fall and light shifts or someone's clothing happens to mirror or accentuate the painting's palette, or when a stance is taken inviting a closer look, that's when art breaths. Babies, love, art. It's all unfinished, and it has to be seen to be appreciated.

First Dance

First Dance

Oil on Wood

6"X8"

After being bathed in babies and love for the last month, I returned to the solitude of Sonoma where the birds sing, the sun shines, and I am back to painting what is foremost on my mind.

Birth Day

"Birth Day"

Oil on Wood

12"X12"

I watched the sunrise from my bedroom early this morning, anxiously awaiting word from the East Coast.

There was a pool of white light on the water so bright, so startling, and so beautiful, I couldn't help thinking it was sent by our loved ones from the Great Beyond signaling their participation in this momentous occasion.

Then the call came.

"We have Baby."

"Everything is Perfect."

Another miracle.

And everything is right with the world.

Summer Reading

"Summer Reading"

Oil on Wood

10"X10"
SOLD

The promise of things to come. 

Westerly Weather

Westerly Weather

Oil on Canvas

30"X30"
SOLD

I just discovered a sketchbook from the 60s when I was in college. It is filled with drawings, portraits of people I actually recognize, and many random, disorganized notes from readings, classes, and  thoughts.  I am struck by how much of today's me I recognize. What touched me then, touches me now. One page is just a series of staccato ink marks. At the top is written, "Scarlatti -- I love you." And then one whole page on which is written, "Union Street. Home sweet home." That brings tears to my eyes. Home has always been where my heart is. Some things never change.

A Break in the Weather

A Break in the Weather

Oil on Wood

12"X12"

You would think that after all these years of painting, I would know what I am doing. But each painting is like starting over. Huh. I guess "Live and Learn" isn't true after all.