"Shem Creek" Revised

12"x9" Oil on Linen

"Palm Tree Study" (Revised)

SOLD

This is a revision of the earlier post by the same name.

8"x10" Oil on Linen on Board

"Christmas Amaryllis"

SOLD

12"x12" Oil on Canvas

"Pond at Kiawah Island"

SOLD

8"x10" Oil on Linen mounted on Board

"Orange Persimmon on Teal"

SOLD 8"x10" oil on linen board painted alla prima
Thanks Anne, for allowing us to use your studio to paint! Super fun day!!

"Afternoon Silhouettes"

SOLD

10"x8" Original Oil on Linen Board Painted Plein Air alla prima

"Outgoing Tide at Mullet Hall"

16"x20" Original Oil on Canvas Plein Air painted Alla Prima

I was captured by the way the shadows of the quickly sinking sun were creeping across the out-going creek and revealing the muddy beds on either side.

$1,000.00

"Tidal Creek at the Cottages"

SOLD

8"x10" Original Oil on Linen Board

The views were breath-taking!

"Still Life with Oranges"

SOLD 8"x10" Oil on Linen Board

"Study of Marshside Oak Tree"

8"x10" Oil on Linen Board Plein Air

On the property of a friend's home lives this magnificent Oak Tree; a massive focal point of her back yard views.

I just had to try it!

"Pathway at Mullet Hall"

8"x10" Original Oil on Linen Board Plein Air

I had to try it again!

(I really love painting paths and dirt roads)

"Seeing Through Ian's Eyes"

8"x10" original Oil on Linen Board Plein Air

Ian Roberts, a spectacular and inspirational artist, helped me see the cast shadows in their simplest forms as he instructed a group of us at Mullet Hall near Kiawah Island, SC.

"Tuscan Mural"

Yes! I do murals, too!

The wall is about 10 feet high and approximately 12 feet wide

"Basket of Brown & Green Eggs with a Crock of Mums"

SOLD 8"x10" original Oil on Linen mounted on Foamboard.

The painting group was unable to meet on our usual painting day so I stayed in and set up a still-life of eggs I got from a friend's organic farm.

Jeremiah Farms is a goat farm located on John's Island. My friend, Casey, and her family raise goats and free-range chickens, they have cats and dogs, rabbits and a whole lot of fun! She makes the most wonderful Chevre with homegrown rosemary and herbs that I have ever tasted anywhere!

"Sally's Beauty - final"

SOLD

10"x8" original oil on Linen board

I glazed the cooler shadows and brightened the sky just a tiny bit after its initial drying down.

It is finished!

"Old Village Marshview"

SOLD

8"x10" Original Oil on Linen Board

Subtle revision were made to this one as directed by my friends in a little critique. Thanks y'all!

"Sweet Little Martha - Final"

Instead of lightening up the background, I "balanced" it instead. I like this effect much better.

"Sally's Beauty"

SOLD

10"x8" original Oil on Linen Board

What a glorious day to paint and what a beautiful neighborhood to inspire a plein air painter!

I love these red tin roofs!

The juxtapositions of shapes; the greens to the reds; the warm to the cools all caught my eye as I set up the easle today and voila!

"Floral Entry"

SOLD

10"x8" original oil on Linen Board

Because of the steady rain on this day (Oct 14th)

Anne graciously opened up her home to all of the painting group to paint indoors.

The grey, cool weather along with the quiet shower of rain created a relaxed, casual atmostphere in which to paint.

The dark and moody interior juxtaposed to the bright and colorful flowers illustrates just how I feel while I am painting even on somber days like this one.

There is nothing better than when one is living their dream - sunshine or not.

"Shem Creek" and "Shem Creek Shrimp Boat"

The day was a little overcast (which is nice when it is still pushing 90 degrees in late September!)

"Shem Creek" is a 12"x9" original oil on Linen board painted En Plein Air Alla Prima (painted on site out-in-the-open and painted at that time with no additional work in the studio afterward).

"Shem Creek Shrimp Boat" is a 5"x7" SOLD original oil on canvas board painted En Plein Air alla prima, too. This little piece was my attempt at painting those tricky boats and all its gear on a tiny format. I will continue to practice with this subject.

Sweet Martha!

24"x18" Black PrismaColor Pencil on Canson Paper

What a beautiful little girl, and those eyes!!

I think I will "lighten up" the black background a bit and this one is all done!

Decorative Art For A Friend

A friend of mine asked me to paint some decorative art for her. The rooster really exists! He lives on Magnolia Plantation in Charleston.

"Green Glass Vase of Hydrangaes"

12"x9" Original Oil on Linen Board

The wet weather directed us inside to create a still-life today. As we were setting up our easles, the sun peeked out of the clouds and provided us with a beautiful illuminated scene.

"Back To The Beach"

SOLD

"Looking Back"

"Portrait Sketch - Resting Little Girl"

11"x14" Oil on Canvas

I asked my daughter, Kristin, to pose for me. She did well until she decided that she wanted to paint as well. She didn't want ME to have all the fun, after all!

"Portrait Sketch - Kristin"

10"x8" Oil on Linen Board

Kristin and I were painting together. She at her craft table, I at my easel. From across the room I tried to capture Kristin as she painted, but like me, she just can't sit still for long.
These spontaneous painting opportunities are promising to be wonderful exercises to stretch that "gesture" muscle and get the image down quickly.
I do like the "softness" quality of this one. It seems to exude her personality.

"Radiant Spirit"

"Radiant Spirit" 36"x36"x2.5" on Gallery Wrapped Canvas

A stylized scene of radiant sunshine dappled through a forest of trees. This painting represents a meaningful spot I try to frequent once in a while when I desire calm solitude and refreshment.

"Rhapsodically Red Parts I & II"

"Rhapsodically Red Part I" "Rhapsodically Red Part II"
40"x30" Oil on Canvas with mixed media

One day in an attempt to nurture the "artist within" I allowed my 18-month old daughter to "go to town" on two of my stretched canvases that I was planning to use for paintings at a later date. I would simply re-prime over her scribbles. To my astonishment, she designed her own masterful art. I washed over her work with turpentine which caused her marks to "glow" through the wash, and I loved the result! Her free-flowing spontaneous marks enhanced my "peek-a-boo" style abstract brush work. A collaboration indeed.

"Oyster Shell Path To The Creek"

SOLD

"Afternoon Sunshine at the Pond"

SOLD

"Boat Study"

SOLD

"An 'Old Village' Long Time Resident"

SOLD

"Beach Front Path"

sold

"Still Life - One Red Apple"

SOLD

"Still Life - Herbs de Provence in Wooden Bowl"

NFS Gifted

"All in a Row - Avenue of Oaks"

SOLD

"A View Into The Guest Room"

"Portal Series - A View Into The Guest Room" 7"x5" Oil on Clayboard SOLD

Another stunning vignette at Anne's beautiful home.
I was drawn to the bright sunlight through the window juxtaposed with the subtle values and hues of the darkened room. It "pulled" me in!

"Portals Series - Light Reflections"

SOLD

"Light Reflections - Portals"

10"x8" Original Oil on Linen Board

I was struck by the layered portals leading into this room and through the window. The sunlight's delicate glaze of filtered light adds to its moodiness (which I always love!)

"Portrait of Little Will"

"Portrait of Will" 25"x19" PrismaColor Pencil on Canson Paper

What a cutie! This was a commission from a very special client.

SOLD

"Slack Tide"

SOLD

10"x8" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen Board

Thanks to Paula for her gracious hospitality today in allowing our Painting Group to utilize the beautiful views and vistas surrounding her home!! What a blessing to be able to look in any direction and see the grandeur and glory of God's creation. Even the driveway delivered a beautiful, poetic vignette to paint!!

"Morning Sun at Fort Dorchester Historical Park"

8"x10" Oil on Linen Board

The Charleston area is full of beautiful, natural historic sites and Fort Dorchester Park located near the headwaters of the Ashley River is one of them. This is a view looking down a pathway leading downhill toward the river. This path was once used by traders who came by way of the Ashley to buy and sell their goods and wares. This historical site was one of the first settlements in Charleston and was a thriving community until the British took it over during the Revolutionary War. It is being preserved and is such a lovely place to paint!

Please inquire as to the price and availability of this piece

"Sullivan's Island Path"

12"x9" Oil on Linen Board

Sullivan's Island is repleat with the most beautiful pathways one can explore that lead to mysterious and wonderful places (like the beach!).

Please inquire about availability and pricing

"Five Palms"

5 - 1/2"x11" Oil on Linen mounted Illustration Board



artistmlh@yahoo.com

"Autumn Has Arrived in the LowCountry!"

SOLD 8"x10" Oil on Linen Board

This was a most glorious day being back out at Sea Side Farms. It was almost cool with the breeze until the sun rose up high and warmed us, then it was back to sleeveless shirts.

"Amelia's Backyard Swing"

SOLD

8"x10" Oil on Linen Board

I love how the sunshine dances in this backyard! Lively dappled shadow and light display exciting patterns everywhere and yet the peaceful tranquility of that swing patiently waits for Amelia again.

"Tracie's Present Final Revision"

24"x18" Oil on Canvas

A final revision was necessary to change Kalyn's hair color from the "reddish" color that I had portrayed earlier to a more natural "Ash blonde/brown"
I also took the liberty of touching up her beautiful twinkling eyes. I am grateful for the opportunity to have captured this lovely family on canvas! Thanks, guys!!

"Happy Birthday, Tracie!!!"

24"x18" Oil on Canvas

Happy Birthday, Tracie!! It is finally complete!

"It's Gettin' There"

24"x18" Oil on Canvas

"The Portrait" is coming along. The sister has been formalized into the group and is "up to speed" with her brothers. I developed the oldest brother (in front) a little more today, too. For those who know this family, I wonder if you can recognize them yet. I'm not tellin' yet 'cause I'm keeping it a secret until it's finished. Let me know what you think so far.

"Garden's Gate"

10"x8" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen Board Not yet available for sale


Another view of this "Secret Garden" One would never think that they were feet away from a suburban neighborhood street. It feels more like a tropical LowCountry Garden hidden far, far away!

"Tropical Garden"

8"x10" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen Board Not yet available for sale

Our Painting group chose to stay close to home this day and my eye couldn't get beyond the lovely entryway into the back yard: a lush, green, tropical "paradise" of a yard!

"Cedar Tree Study"

Not yet available for sale

10"x8" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen Board

At "the Path" there is a certain section that draws me. One element of this area is this wonderful, knarley tree. The rough texture of the bark and the tangle of branches just draws me! So I had to attempt a painting.

This was quick; a study. I want to go back sometime and develop another painting which hopefully might lead to my mastering the Tree!!

"Talor's Portrait"

36"x24" Oil on Canvas sold

Let me know what you think!

"Atop 'The Mound' - Sullivan's Island: View of Ben Sawyer Bridge"

Not yet available for sale 9"x 12" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen .

My first time at the top of "The Mound" of Sullivan's Island.
It's strange to see this verticle piece of RealEstate emerging from ground that is at sea level. At the top, one can see the Intercoastal Waterway all the way across the Island to the Atlantic Ocean! Beautiful vantage points for painting!

"The Path That Leads To Home"

SOLD

8"x10" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen mounted on Foam Board -

This is the path we've affectionately dubbed "Susie's Path." This vantage point is what you see after you've made it to the beach and are now on your way back home. It's full of beautiful surprises.

"Her Morning Walk, Her Morning Therapy"

SOLD

14"x11" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen $300.

This path is very special to me in many ways. It is the path where "The Sullivan's Island Plein Air Painters" had our photo taken which currently hangs in our window showcasing our paintings at Saks Fifth Avenue. It is also a favorite of mine to paint. . . here lies many beautiful painterly vantage points.

But mostly this is a friend's tranquil morning ritual: a beachward walk with her two trusty K-9 companions.

"Summertime Sea Oats and Sky"

Not yet available for sale

8"x10" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen mounted on Board

The beach is just in sight as I walked the sandy path toward the sound of breaking waves and folks walking their dogs before the 10:00 am "curfew."

The sight of distant land surrounded by its own beach seemed to "float" above the water.

The clouds were cooperating and creating such beautiful swirls of color and shape. The breeze gently cooled me as it rocked the sea oats back and forth. How could I pass up this opportunity to paint this experience???

"Where the Beach Begins"

8"x10" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen mounted on board

I wanted to show the walking path's transition from grass to sand as it leads you through the sand dunes and beyond - down to the beach. What a welcoming sight.

Check us out at Sak's Fifth Avenue!!

Although this is not a clear shot of the window where our Plein Air Group was invited to showcase our Plein Air Paintings, it is exciting to think that we're here for all to see in downtown Charleston, SC!!

My painting entitled, "Little Yellow Kayak and Old Wooden Boat" sold from out of the Saks Fifth Avenue window; and I am thrilled!!

If you happen to be in the area, stop by the Market Street windows of Saks Fifth Avenue and check us out!! Be sure to let me know what you think.

"Creekline"

DONATION TO CHARITY 8"x10" Original Plein Air Oil on Linen mounted on board

As the tide came in the water began to cover the oyster beds along the creekline. I was fascinated by the dark mass of trees juxtaposed to the bright, lighted greens of the grasses at the creek's edge. Another lovely day!

"The Little Yellow Kayak and the Old Wooden Boat"

8"x10" Original Plein Air Oil on Belgian Linen Board
Painted "Alla Prima" $100. SOLD

These two boats were huddled together and the colors were magnificent! My eye was captured by the hot yellow next to the cool turquoise-y blues and the hot pink (faded red plastic) gasoline container.
It also appeared that the "younger" yellow kayak was keeping company with the "older" wooden boat as they nestled into the grasses waiting to be of use again.

SOLD

"Incoming Tide" SOLD

8"x10" Original Plein Air Oil on Archival Belgian Linen Board
Painted "Alla Prima" SOLD

The Wednesday painters were back at one of our favorite spots today. The conditions were perfect for painting!

"Talor's Portrait - almost finished!"

We're almost there!! We met back on location where the portrait originated. The day was sunny and clear and the light created wonderful, rich color on Talor's face. I loved how the light also bounced up onto her face from her dress. Stay tuned!

"Oyster Roast Long Forgotten - Revised"

sold 11"x14" Original Plein Air Oil on ArtBoard (must be framed under glass) $300.

This is the same painting as the earlier post last week, however, I went back in and "punched-up" some of the color and the contrast. I like how this turned out. There seems to be a definate "foreground" and "middle ground" in relation to the "back ground" now.

"April Morning at the Pond"

SOLD 14"x11" Original Plein Air Oil on ArtBoard (Acid-free archival heavy stock Paper)

Must be framed under glass. The day was gorgeous: no bugs, cooler, no humidity and the blue sky seemed to go on forever! I had to get out there and paint!! Here is the result.

"High Tide"

SOLD

14"x11" Original Plein Air Oil on Artboard (100% Acid-free Cotton Rag heavy stock paper) $300. [This must be framed under glass]

I love it when I catch the tide high in the marshes and creeks.

"Their Little Sister is Introduced. . . "

It is still a work in progress but at least I now have the boys' little sister introduced into the portrait. I've got some more "drawing" to refine and the "key" is too high, but she's there! These are factors that I can work out now that she's been "introduced."

"Afternoon Sunshine on the Pond"

Not yet available for sale 8"x10" Original Plein Air Oil Painting on Stretched Linen

The Day was too pretty to allow another painting to get by. . . the pond always beckons me to paint it, so I obliged (smile).

"Marshide Cloud Formations"

The clear day gave way to some incoming clouds which of course make for a much more interesting sky. So I tried to capture those beautiful, fluffy formations before they blew away!
The crushed oyster shell path leads out to a distant dock platform on the edge of the creek. On the other side of the creek one can spot distant Mount Pleasant. What a beautiful little spot we found!

SOLD

"Tide Up In Turquois"

Not yet available for sale
What a find! The painting group found this beautiful turquois boat tied to the edge of the marsh. What a glorious day to paint and what a glorious subject begging for our attention!

"Molly"

A cute little sketch of a beautiful little girl!

"Kristin - A Portrait Attempt"

I'll continue to try to capture this little one until completion. She is patient for a young 5-year old, however, not patient enough for me to finish this like I'd like to. But here it is for you to see. Perhaps I can call it "The initial stages of a portrait by me" (smile)

From the Life Drawing Series. . . . .

"Portrait Sketch of Elisabeth" approx. 18"x 20" Black Soft Pastel on Strathmore paper

From the Life Drawing Series. . . .

"Two Gestural Studies" Ebony Pencil on Newsprint paper


Gestural Study Detail I & II approx. 16"x 14" & 16"x8" respectively

From the Life Drawing Series. . . . .

"Gesture of the Head and Hand" approx. 20"x18" Black Soft Pastel on Strathmore paper

"The Red Door - Painting in Primary & Secondary Hues"

9"x12" Original Plein Air Oil on Canvas .

Despite the tremendous high wind gusts and the cold temperatures

(I painted with "fingerless" gloves!)

I just had to paint this house!

The Red Door, the Cobalt Blue Car parked in front, the Green Ivy growing all over the facade and the little ochre Yellow shades in the windows captured my eye dramatically!

Half way through the painting, though, someone got into that car and drove off!!

After my palette blew away for the third time, I packed it up. I think I'd like to try this one again on a less "dramatic" day (ha ha)

"All in a Row - An Avenue of Oaks"

SOLD Original 10"x8" Plein Air Oil on Linen Board

Crushed Oyster roads lined with magnificent Oak Trees capture the dancing sunlight filtering through the webs of massive Oak Tree branches.
These eye-catching "tunnels" draw me to paint them every time.

"Farmfield Oak Trees"

SOLD Original 8"x10" Plein Air Oil on Linen

The everpresent challenge of a Tree!! I enjoy every millisecond that I get to paint such glorious subjects with friends who challenge and encourage me. Thanks again, Anne, for allowing us on your farm!!

"Dreaming in Technicolor - same pose as Sleeping"

Full-Color Watercolor Washes on Newsprint Paper

approximately 10"x18"

"Sleeping"

Watercolor Wash in Greys on Newsprint Paper

approximately 10"x18"

"Portrait in Progress - the Progress Continues. . "

Approximately 24"x19" Oil on canvas

Drawing and Color are a continual "exertion" in the process of portraiture. Actually, this portrait is a surprise for these kids' mother and father and I wonder that if they frequent my blogsite if they will recongnize their own children in my painting. And if they do, will they say anything to me???? HMmmmmmm, fun!

"A Portrait in Progress - 'It's a Start' - First Application"

24.5"x18.5" Original Oil on Canvas

Another start to another portrait: Two brothers and their sister. I haven't yet settled on the third subject's pose, so I am leaving her blank for now. This is the first application after all.

"Seated Man - Gestural"

25"x19" Soft Pastel Black on News Print Paper
This was done quickly after the original "Seated Man" sketch

"Drawing in Terre Cotta"

Life Drawing Series

25"x19" News Print Paper

I'M BACK!!

"One Red Apple - A Still Life Study" 5"x7" Oil on Canvas Board Framed NFS - Charitable Contribution

My first upload since the flu put me out of commission for a while. I'm BACK!!

"Mushroom, Garlic & Shallot Still Life with Brown Jug"

"Value Study - Nude"

"Contemplation"

Portrait of Talor - 5 & 6th application

36"x24" Oil on Gallery-wrapped Canvas
nfs


We're nearly there!! Talor is such a trooper to sit for me again and that sitting really enhanced the portrait's progression. I think another application and it will be ready for framing!

"Portrait of Stephen"

Black PrismaColor Pencil on 25"x19" Acid free Strathmore Paper.

I always love drawing and painting the portrait. . . here is one I did today of Stephen. What an excellent model he was!! I'm not sure that I saw him blink! Thanks, Stephen!! You're the greatest. NFS

"Faithful Path (Autumn Path)" sold

6"x4" Original Plein Aire Oil on Canvas Board $35.

A sweet little study. Must go back and paint there again! What a blast!

SOLD

"Autumn Inspiration"

Original Plein Aire Oil on Stretched Canvas 12"x9" $200.

The colors - spectacular! The day - clear and crisp! Just another perfect day to be out painting. As we were all setting up and finding our spots, I noticed that my three painting friends all together. They each inspire me every week, so I knew before I started that I wanted to incorporate them in my painting.

"Autumn Marsh" sold

5"x7" Original Plein Aire Oil on Canvas Board $75.00 SOLD

There are so many beautiful colors that can be seen in a marsh scene. I tried real hard to capture most of them!

"Along the Coastline" sold

8"x10" Plein Aire Oil on Linen Board. SOLD

I loved the patterns between the positive and negative notes; the shapes that the light and shadow create. I think that this painting indicates an influence of the right kind by a fellow artist. "I'm starting to get it!"

"Afternoon Autumn Marsh" SOLD

5"x7" Plein Aire Oil on Canvas mounted Masonite board. $75.00 SOLD

I couldn't get past the cool blues in the background of the horizon and distant shoreline. It was captivating!

Talor's Portrait - Third Application

I worked a bit more on Talor's dress here. I haven't yet touched the obvious "portrait elements" like the face and hands and hair since I first laid them in during the second application. I want to be sure that the foundation of the entire canvas is set before I embark on the details.

Click on the image to view larger

"Autumn Still-Life (with Wooden Basket and Glass Jug)"

sold

Unbeknownst to my painting friend, Susie, it is she who named this work. I thought it fit. Thank you, Susie!

Also, in the time that it took to paint this one, the image emerged from a series of transitions (not unlike Autumn: leaves in transition, transistional weather, time changes, etc. . ). Not to say that an "arrival" of sorts has been achieved, but I like this stop so far, thanks in a great measure to the insightful eyes of those with whom I paint: Anne and Leslie (and Susie who unfortunately couldn't paint with us today - whose presence was missed). "Precious Jewels" ALL of you!!

sold

"Second Application to Talor's Portrait"

It's a little shiney from the flash. Perhaps tomorrow afternoon I'll retake this picture in the sun (after working on it a bit more) so you can get the full affect.

There's still a lot to do, but I am pleased overall with the progress.

As my 4-year old would say: "look, piggies!!" I formalized Talor's left foot a little bit. I don't want to make her feet too "obvious" after all, your attention should be on a young lady's eyes.

First Application "Portrait of Talor"

Portrait of Talor - First Application

36"x24" Oil on Gallery-Wrapped Canvas

This is the first application or "underpainting" of the actual portrait from which I did the earlier study (note the smaller study in the background).
I'm pleased with how this turned out so far. . . I'll keep you posted on its development!

"Late Afternoon Reflections"

11"x14" Plein Aire Oil on Stretched Linen $300.00 SOLD

Adjacent to my backyard is this pond which backs up to wetlands. This relatively small plot of Real Estate can be the source of so much beauty! I worked diligently in capturing the quickly setting sun and how the colors were influenced by it.

"A Break From The Storm - Folly Beach"

8"x10" Plein Aire Oil on Stretched Linen

I was compelled to capture on canvas the dycotomy of the ominous, dark, looming clouds next to that single, bright, crystal clear blue sky: a ray of hope, if you will. A wonder that will never cease to be a challenge and yet a sublime pleasure to try to depict. Is this not life itself?

"The Pathway Home"

10"x8" Plein Aire Oil on Stretched Linen SOLD

Feeling a little sunburned from an earlier painting I was working on at the Beach, I felt that it was time to call it a day and head out. As I was leaving the beach I made it to some shade and noticed this nice "tunnel-like" pathway. I just had to make time for one more, so I set up again and here is the result.

"Rocky Shore"

SOLD 8"x10" Plein Aire Oil on Linen Board

God gets all the Glory for this day!! What Peace! What Sanctity! What a sense of Calm I had painting. One of my painting friends, Susie, made the comment, "It just doesn't get any better than this." And she was right. Aside from the fact that we were in a gorgeous and rather remote location, the sun and clouds were bright and beautiful. The air temperature was comfortable and if we got a little too hot, we simply slipped off our flip flops and dipped our toes in the surf. The folks who live here own a little piece of Heaven on earth! I think I may have gotten a little too much sun, though. It's tough to leave paradise.

"Beach Front Path"

SOLD 10"x8" Oil on Linen Board

Looking around for something to paint, my eye caught sight of this beautiful little pathway from the homes beyond the trees down to the beach where I was standing. It was so nice this day: the hot sunshine beating down on me, yet I was being cooled by the lapping surf of the cool ocean. What a treasure to be a part of such a scene!

"Look At What The Tide Brought In"

Not yet available for sale

8"x10" Plein Aire Oil on Linen Board

It was such a bright morning this morning when this was painted. It certainly was a glorious day for painting! Oh! I almost forgot, the bundle in the foreground was an interesting item. It looked as though someone had tied four palm tree trunks together with what is now a very rusted cable. I wonder what its original purpose was.

"Distant Charleston City Scape"

"Distant Charleston City Scape" Plein Aire 8"x10" Oil on Linen Board

The sky was ever changing - I had to capture what I could and leave it alone. I loved the way the sand dune fence played "hide and seek" with the grasses and vines in front and behind it. I tried to capture its essence without literally painting it. A good exercise at the very least. Like I always say, a day of painting, for me, is the best day of all!

"Gesture of a Tree"

"Gesture of a Tree" Plein Aire 8"x10" Oil on Stretched Linen SOLD

Today, my painting friend made a comment about how she looks at trees like people - each tree has a personality and a "gesture" like people do. She is right. After that comment, I will never view a tree the same way again. What used to intimidate me to boredom now intrigues and inspires me. Just behind this tree and the background dunes lies the sea; and this close proximity to the ocean breezes causes foliage to "grow" with the wind. I was enthralled with painting this epiphany of freedom! Even the distant palms in this piece have a gesture and a personality to them.

"Deacon Blue"

11"x14" Oil on Stretched Canvas. $400. SOLD
The model took on this pose and settled into a comfortable position. As the small group of us artists painted, Steely Dan played quietly in the background: "Deacon Blue". It seemed to fit. click on image to enlarge

"Seated Nude"

10"x8" Oil on Linen Board SOLD
This is a little study of a beautiful young woman I'll call "Jennifer"
Figurative and portraiture paintings are some of my very favorites to create. I can't express just how blessed I am to be able to "do" the very thing that God created me to do. I feel so alive at this time in my life because of the privilege to paint and create works of art. And I get to paint with some of Charleston's FINEST artists!! Wow, can somebody pinch me???

"The Pink Door"

10"x8" Oil on Linen Board SOLD
The Pink Door was an inspiration of our painting friend, Anne, who passes by here regularly. Although a typical Downtown Charleston one room house, there was something about the character of this Robin's Egg Blue building with the open Pink door. It wasn't difficult for Anne to turn us all on to this potential painting.

And "Who left the door open, anyway??" As we painted, we saw at least two of its residence come by to check the mail and then drive away. No body bothered to ever close that Pink Door.

I feel that this particular painting of mine is unfinished. I did have the where-with-all to bring my digital camera and snap a few shots for additional work in the studio. I think that I got a pretty good start though. I'll keep you posted on how this one develops. Until I complete it, however, it isn't for sale just yet. (Let me know via comments if you are interested in this and can't wait for further development.) Click on image to enlarge

"Lone Palm Tree"

Not yet available for sale

The painting group found this abandoned property on which this lone palm tree stands and overlooks the waterway. Click on Image to Enlarge

Portrait of Talor

"Portrait of Talor" 12"x9" Oil on Linen
I am so thrilled with this commission to paint Talor's portrait. We did this little study in Washington Park this morning and I was very impressed with the self-discipline of this young lady.
Prior to and after the study in oil, we took many photographs all from which I will work to produce the 40"x30" painting (approximately). I will continually post updates of the painting's progress.
Click on Image to Enlarge

"Three Trees"

"Three Trees" 8"x10" Oil on Linen Board
I loved the patterns that were created by the "holes" in between these massive oak trees and how they related to one another.

SOLD

"Backyard Breezes"

"Backyard Breezes" 8"x10" Oil on Canvas
This painting marks the first "chilly" day of the Autumn season despite the 75+ degree temperatures. The breezes kept us all cool and dry.

"Afternoon in the Shade"

"Afternoon in the Shade" 9"x12" Oil on Canvas SOLD

Those blue chairs and the red bike seemed so inviting that I couldn't pass up the opportunity to put down the experience on canvas.

Click on Image to Enlarge

"The Dunes' Gatekeeper"

"The Dunes' Gatekeeper" 8"x10" Oil on Linen Board SOLD

It was too beautiful to go in just yet, so I had to squeeze just one more painting in before the day is done.

"Red's Ice House"

"Red's Ice House" sold

The Old Boat House

SOLD

"The Old Boat House" 8"x10" Oil on Linen Board

What a fun and interesting subject. This old house has a character all its own. I especially love the uneven boardwalk out to its dock.

Approaching Storm Over Charleston

sold

"Approaching Storm Over Charleston" 8"x10" Oil on Canvas sold

It was a gorgeous and clear morning to paint. Suddenly I heard a distant rumbling of thunder and couldn't resist the dramatic cloud formations blowing in over the Peninsula; I had to act fast! The sky was so azure blue and the edges of these dark, ominous clouds were quickly encroaching on the tranquil blue. It was "cut and dry."

"Marshland Driftwood"

"Marshland Driftwood" 8"x10" Oil on कान्वस्बोअर्द sold

The natural "framing" that occured witht he shadows of the foliage juxtaposed behind the whitish surface of this large, downed tree just had to be painted.

"Marshside Cottage"

SOLD

"Marshside Cottage" 10"x8" oil on CanvasBoard

One of the first beautiful sunny days to get out and paint in what seemed like forever! The abundant rain we've been receiving along with the transition of school starting just kept me indoors. Ah, SUNSHINE!

Thanks to Anne for her on point critique.

"Still Life - Fruit on a white plate"

SOLD

"Still Life - Fruit on a White Plate" 8"x10" Oil on Belgian Linen Canvas Board $100.

I had to work fast! This is the result. Quick, quick brush work. Details were essentially left out. Another exercise in putting down the major notes as fast as possible. Perhaps my next painting will be a more "finished" one. We'll see.

Kristin and the Scarlet Blanket

"Kristin and the Scarlet Blanket" 8"x10" Oil on CanvasBoard

Our second attempt went much better than the first (see "Saturday Morning Cartoons"). I'll give my little one tremendous credit for sitting relatively still as she is only a Four-Year-Old. She was still a "squirmey-wormey" but that's o.k. This was an excellent drill in putting down as much info as possible in the shortest amount of time without getting too caught up in the details. I'm proud of my little cutie. I only hope to do a "full scale" portrait of her someday soon. And yes, she was really into it. . . she wanted to see my progress and when I threatened to quit due to her "moving around" she quickly got back into postition without a sound! Can you tell that I am proud of my little sweet heart?

I invite your comments

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let me know which, if any, are your favorites.
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Enjoy!
Mary

"Still Life with Limes"

"Still Life with Limes" 9"x12" Oil on CanvasBoard $200

The 98+ degree heat and 90% humidity put our painting group inside to paint today. Thank you, Leslie, for opening up your wonderful studio this morning!

Leslie artfully arranged this still-life and challenged me in color theory. At first glance what appeared to be the cool, purplish shadows began to morph into warmer, redder ones. I began to see "heat" in those cool shadows! Never-the-less, even a "frustrating" day of painting is still a great day!

"Linville Ridge Rocks 1705"

"Linville Ridge Rocks 1705" 9"x12" Oil on CanvasBoard $200
It was suggested to me to take this Plein Aire Study and use it to create a larger version of this painting: 20"x24" perhaps. I look forward to the challenge!

"A Cloud Study II"

"A Cloud Study II" 10"x8" Oil on CanvasBoard
Breath-taking views were everywhere. The cloud formations were the highlight of this day! I also wanted to capture the mountain tops here. The "fog" that I saw in the valleys of the mountains created such a "mood." The misty mountain valleys made the colors so beautiful!

SOLD

"Cloud Study I"

"Cloud Study I" 10"x8" Oil on CanvasBoard What gorgeous reference material! The Mountain atmostphere showed off for me with these glorious cloud formations! I had to capture it quick! They don't hold still for anyone!

"A Still-Life Study in Green"

"A Still-Life Study in Green" 8"x10" Oil on CanvasBoard sold

What a great exercise in developing greens using a limited palette without making the image flat or boring green. This is a dilemma that artists might find themselves in when it comes to painting a landscape of lush green trees and grasses in the spring or summer. How does one paint such a thing without making the canvas nothing but a green mass? This was a lot more fun than I had anticipated and I really liked the way this little gem turned out.

"Pathway to Knowledge"

"Pathway to Knowledge" 12"x9" Oil on Canvas sold
This painting depicts a "driveway" of a beautiful home in which I and 12 of the most wonderful, inspiring artists stayed. Together we painted under the tutalage of Charleston Artist, Laurie Meyer. Laurie's instruction inspired and enlarged my own art experience to the degree that I feel as though another lifetime of knowledge was added to me as a result of this mountain experience. It was a bonding and learning experience like no other. Thank you, Laurie and Tammy!!! (KISS!)

"Saturday Morning Cartoons"

"Saturday Morning Cartoons" 10"x8" Original Oil on Canvas

Although it was Monday that I painted this, the whole genre reminded me of 'days of old' when I was a kid and couldn't wait until Saturday mornings to watch Bugs Bunny cartoons. I asked my daughter to just sit and watch Noggin while I painted her but she just couldn't get comfortable so my little "squirmey-wormey" made this sitting a short one. Now that she's seen the end result, I think that the next painting will be more of a success. A look of delight brightened her face when she realized that she was the subject of one of my paintings.

sold

"Pathway to the Beach" 10"x8" Oil on Linen Board $100.

Another fine day painting. Thanks to my painting friends who with their fine critiques guide me in the right direction! Many thanks!

The Point at the SeaShore

"The Point at the SeaShore" 8"x10" Oil on Linen Board $100 sold

"A Day At The Waterfront"

SOLD

"A Day At The Waterfront" 5"x7" Oil on Canvas Board $75

This was fun trying to capture the sights of people enjoying the cool breeze of the on-coming rain storm. . . I got rained on so I had to pack it up. As the rain drops mixed with my oil paints and palette, I believe that I captured sufficient information so the viewer can "experience" what I saw. I will be back here. There is a plethera of subject matter to be painted! This was also the painting I was working on as Gracie was photographing me for the Post and Courier's article about bloggers "Painting a Day" Thanks Kyle & Gracie!!

"55"

"55" 10"x8" Oil on Canvas

I was captured by this downtown Charleston home's inviting facade. Its doorway and colorful plantings seemed to say "Welcome" as it beckoned to be painted. Sold

Kay, a fellow Plein Aire Painter, took this picture of me as I was composing "My Secret Cove"

I had the best day ever!!

"My Secret Cove - Distant view of Fort Johnson"

"My Secret Cove - View of Distant Fort Johnson" Oil on ArtBoard 11"x16" SOLD
"Heaven!" The hot sun, the cool ocean breeze, the children playing in the surf as their father cast for fish. . . what could be a more perfect day? . . . Painting it!!
I was so blessed by two little sisters who were having the time of their lives playing in the sand and sea. They would occassionally come over to where I was painting to ask me a question or two and then skip back off to their play spot. As their time on the beach came to an end, they both stopped by to offer me a hug good-bye and a beautiful flower that I wore behind my ear. I've just "painted" for you MY ideal day! "Heaven!"

SOLD "Stella Maris Church" 12"x9" Oil on GessoBoard $200.

Wow, it was a hot one today - but any day painting makes for a very happy day for me.
The original canvas was photographed at a slight angle making this image seem slanted. I will have to re-photograph this to capture a truer image.

"Edelweiss" 16"x20" Oil on Canvas sold

"Afternoon At Moses' Cone State Park, NC" 9"x12" Oil on Canvas

The day was drawing near to an end and those long shadows began to creep down the hillside very quickly. The time crunch of capturing "the moment" - as the moment was fleeting with the setting sun - was exhilerating! The hot, vibrant greens juxtaposed with the cool blues inspired me.

Portrait of Maris McKinnley PrismaColor Pencil on Strathmore 80lb Drawing Paper 24"x18" sold

What a delightful little girl!!! We produced this from life in about an hour and I enjoyed every MicroSecond of it!! (I love my job!) Maris was joyful and sweet even as we were encroaching on her nap time. I wanted to express that in her drawing: her personality is pure joy!

SOLD "Sullivan's Sunshine" 11"x14" Oil on Artboard (can be framed under glass)

"Marshside Reflection" 8"x10" Oil on Canvas $100
SOLD
Spring has sprung and summer is just around the corner. This was a perfect, summer-like day to be out painting. Mother Nature's colors are becoming more vibrant as the seasons warm.

"Backyard Long Shadows" 24"x20" Oil on Canvas $1,000.
I got ambitious today! Working Plein Aire with a "larger" canvas was challenging! It was the morning sun that created the esoteric impression of the cast shadows on the four present trees.

"Tennessee Springtime: Someone's Watching" 20"x24" Oil on Canvas sold

While visiting a friend in Eastern Tennessee, I took a series of photographs from this field. The cows' hoove prints created this "pocked texture" in the soggy ground each time they drank from their watering hole. A most intriguing and inspiring topography which begged to be painted.

SOLD

"Placid Pond" 9"x12" unframed Oil on Canvas, $300 unf; $450 framed

Again, whenever I can't make it to the coast to paint, I find that there is an abundance of resource in my own backyard! God's Beauty truly is all around us!

Framing

UnframedFramed (add $300.00 at checkout)

"Portrait of The Lilies" 30"x26" Oil on Linen sold

What a wonderful couple! I wanted to capture the enduring and endearing love they share. I truly love the process of producing a portrait: the relationship between the client and I develops beyond just business. A "piece" of them remains in me and a "piece" of me remains with them; and they always capture my heart!

"Shadow Dancin'" 10"x8" Oil on GessoBoard $100

I love the way the patterns of purple shadows "dance" across the crushed oyster shell path so much that I want to use this as a reference to create it again on a 40"x30" canvas or larger. So if you are interested in purchasing this one . . . we will have to make arrangements for its delivery to be contingent upon the completion of its "offspring."

SOLD

"Charleston Harbour" 9"x12" Oil on Canvas $200 unf; $350. Framed

While downtown on Charleston's Waterfront, I was captured by the colors and shapes of the many different grasses that waved in the breeze. These beautiful, vibrant textures contrasted beautifully to the ruddy reeds which washed up with the last tide.

Framing

UnframedFramed (add $250 at checkout)

"Still Life with Pears and Strawberries" 16"x20" Oil on Canvas $500

"Boat Study" 8"x10" Oil on GessoBoard $100.

The reflections in this study were interesting to me and -although quite a challenge - FUN!