Believe OIl on Wood SOLD

For many the holidays is a time of sadness because of events associated with the past. For instance, a death, a divorce, or family tensions that occurred during the holiday season can spur one into depression or at least mild despondency. Many times this occurs without the sufferer being  consciously of the what or why of his/her feelings. To compound the problem,  the season gives the impression that supreme happiness and outright giddiness is the norm. The level of expectations is raised so high that many are simply "set up" for  disappointment. For those of us who experience these feelings, we need to believe that the holidays are centered on a reality far more weighty than gifts, decorations, and functional families. God's presence is at the core of Christmas. But in reality, God's presence is with us ALL the time, not just during a selected time slot on the calendar. That is what I choose to believe. 

Blue-eyed Santa 3x5

This close-up of Santa was repeated 10 times this Christmas. Miniature 3x5's of this pose grew into a task after the fourth painting. I became quite familiar with Santa's face. In an effort to create some variety, I would change eye color, hence, the weird title for the painting. Lo, the blue-eyed Santa,,,

Santa in Blue 16x20 SOLD

Santa is PUMPED! He sent the red suit to the cleaners, so he would be sharp later in the week. He donned that little blue number he wears around the house. In the meantime, he and the elves are sorting, organizing, and having strategy meetings. Things are coming together. Blastoff is nigh!

Santa Plate SOLD

Several Christmases ago, I was in a  plate painting mode. Small dessert plates scavenged at flea markets and garage sales were the chosen surface. They sold well, and the surplus made ideal small gifts for friends and the unexpected gifting that arises during the Christmas season. This "plate period" reminds me of the various surfaces I have used for paintings from wood to metal;

you name it. Of course, I have my limits. A gentleman wandered into Marble Gate Gallery one day and asked my painting buddy Judith if she was willing to paint the rim of a toilet seat. She turned him down, and I got supremely busy in the back storage room fearful that I would be the next on his list. No, my artistic pride will not allow me to stoop to such.

Skiing Santa 16x20 $100.00

Today was the last school day before the holidays. WHOOPEE!!!! I'm with Santa. Let's celebrate!

Santa's Songbird 3x5 SOLD

I painted 10 just like this one last Christmas for my daughter. Santa is taking a moment from his busy pre-Christmas schedule to enjoy a red bird's song. Who could blame him? We would all be better off if we would take a moment to listen to what a bird has to say. ...the wonder of the small.

Poinsettias 36x40 SOLD

    This painting was one that sold three Christmases ago- a surprise gift for one who loved Christmas and  any thing related to Christmas. When living in Florida, I was surprised to learn that poinsettias grew outside there as shrubbery. Growing rather large, they were beautiful if well-tended and protected from occasional cold snaps. This painting always garnered positive comments, and I was glad to see it adopted by Christmas lovers. I always want my paintings to be in a good home.

Santa and Rudolph 32x40 SOLD

This piece was painted several years ago, but will always remain a personal favorite simply because it captures a whimsical moment. This deer can't decide if the carrot is worth the gamble of approaching this strange figure. I would like to think that Frosty was nose-less

at the end of the day.

Christmas Blues 16x20 Sold

Christmas was indeed magical to me (sorry about the tired expression). The preceding days before the big night seemed an eternity to my pea brain. I was euphoric with anticipation. On Christmas afternoon however, the reality that Christmas was over hit home and I crashed. It was over. Life had lost meaning. I was distraught. An entire year stretched before me. NO MORE CHRISTMAS until then. Perhaps this puppy is feeling the same emotions.

Nativity 8x10 $60.00

With this piece, I tried a different approach which involves Z-gel as a finish. After painting a simple nativity with as few details as possible, I applied a layer of coating, which after drying, gives the appearance of antique crackling. My hopes were this scene would have the appearance of a stained glass window scene. --not quite there, but I do like the simplicity of this familiar Christmas scene. I like the texture which is formed,

 not apparent with a photo.

Eyes of the Big Guy 4x6 $60.00

Normally, I work on larger Christmas pieces, not so this year. This piece was duplicated twelve times for gifts. I am always amazed at how different "identical" paintings can be.  For instance, Santa's expression varies from painting to painting. Here he has a mysterious,  mischievous glint in his eyes. What IS he up to????