BEST IN SHOW!!!!!

I am bursting with joy this morning because last night, at the 2017 Olympia Art League juried art show, my painting, Coastline, was awarded...BEST IN SHOW!  I couldn't believe it when my name was called.  All I can say is, Wow!  I didn't expect that!  My other entry into the show, Three Broads Abroad, was awarded honorable mention!  What a night!  It feels soooo good to get rewarded for the hard work I've been doing.  God is good!!!

Coastline
20x16

Three Broads Abroad
16x12

Big Smile

This is how I feel today...Happy, because the sun is shining!  Enjoy!

6x6
acrylic on gessobord

Soaking Up the Sun

This dog looks like a lot of us in the Pacific Northwest this spring;  When the sun comes out we all rush outside to soak up what little sun we can find!
I usually paint dogs with shorter coats of fur, so this was fun to work on a "hairier" pup.  I had a few different titles in mind while painting it; one being, "Naturally Curly", and the other, "Sunshine Makes My Fur Curl".
I hope you all find some sunshine in your neck of the woods!

6x6
acrylic on gessobord

Retriever

I can only go so long without painting a dog!  I loved the water dripping and splashing from this good dog as well as the red toy.  Enjoy!

6x8
acrylic on gessobord

Avalanche

I painted this for the "Lost edges challenge" this week.  I have found that fading certain edges helps to create the illusion of movement.  It was fun to experiment some with the colors and brushstrokes in this one.

6x6
acrylic on gessobord

Easter Fun

This is a commission piece I finished recently.  I just love this family.  That is one of my favorite things about doing commission work; getting to meet new friends.

14x10
acrylic on canvas
SOLD

Wild Orcas

We are so blessed here in the Pacific Northwest.  It is not uncommon for these beautiful mammals to give us a show while out in the Puget Sound.  I found this photo on Pixabay, but have had a few viewings just like this (I just never seem to have my camera ready at the right time!).  I just heard from neighbors that a couple of Humpback whales were spotted the last couple of evenings around the Olympia area.  I would love to see that!

6x6
acrylic on gessobord

Tunnel Vision

I painted this for the "Brushwork challenge".  I concentrated on keeping my brushstrokes purposeful and not overworking the painting.  Often times I find myself enjoying the act of putting paint on the canvas, so much so, that I loose sight of my vision.  This challenge was great practice in control.

6x8
acrylic on gessobord

Facing the Giants

6x8
acrylic on gessobord

Big Wave Paddler

More surfing fun.  I am really enjoying using bold colors and strokes in these paintings.   I find myself overworking some of my paintings and it's something I am actively trying to get away from. It seems crazy to work hard to make something more simple, doesn't it?!  Any who...Here's to green water and giant waves!

6x8
acrylic on gessobord
$50

Surfer

We indulged ourselves with a quick visit to Southern California over spring break.  The sun, sand, and surf has inspired me!  Luckily the waves weren't this big while my husband and daughter tried out some surfing.  I'd have to say that surfing is my favorite sport to watch.  I have the utmost respect for those guys and gals that ride those giants (and the little waves too-I have never been able to get up on a surfboard (sad, but true!)).  Maybe one of these days.

6x8
acrylic on gessobord
$50