Italian Sunshine - Gifted

Last year I was in Italy painting with several wonderful artists.  One day we spent climbing up a very large hill to the village of Pruno.  This village is built into a hillside with winding streets, beautiful buildings and flowers everywhere.  There were so many beautiful nooks and crannies it was hard to decide what to paint.  I read that there are only 121 inhabitants in the area.  We only saw a few people and the majority of those where in the restaurant where we were the only customers.  It was excellent and almost like being seated in the middle of a good, good novel that you do not want to end.  As I was hiking up to the village with all my gear (backpack, easel, paints, water, etc.), I thought to myself, "this better be good."   It was so much more than I could have imagined and I have gone back there in my mind so many times.  This particular scene reminds me of that special day. This painting of that special place is for someone very special to me.  

Brother From Another Mother - SOLD

I was asked to paint a picture of two friends who have been very close during their school years and now are on their way to college.  It was obvious by the reference photos that these two are very good friends, probably like brothers.  They have probably been through many things together, encouraging each other, listening to each other, helping each other out of trouble and obviously playing ball together.  Their relationship reminds me of how important special relationships are in our lives and how they can last a lifetime.  

This painting comes at a particular time of reflection at my house as my husband and I are leaving this weekend to travel back to our hometown where we finished high school.  It is his 50th reunion!!!  Where did that time go? Even the physical building is gone and I was given the honor of painting the old school.  During that process in preparation for the weekend,  we have relived many memories.  These two friends will take memories with them and hopefully will share them over and over and again in 50 years.

Mr. Yellow - SOLD

Recently a friend sent me a picture of a rare yellow cardinal who resides in Alabaster, Alabama.  The distinct look  is identified as a rare genetic mutation that knocks out the pathway for production of red pigments.  Due to his appearance, the cardinal has been named Mr. Yellow by Charlie Stephenson and photographer Jeremy Black,  who were the first to spot him.  Within the last couple of months he and a female cardinal were seen feeding two chicks in their nest.  Mr. Stephenson said even though Mr. Yellow was "different" the female accepted him as he was and they started this little family together.  A facebook page entitled The Yellow Cardinal is dedicated to the life and journey of the couple and today it was noted that there are three more eggs in a nest.  It remains to be seen whether or nor Mr. Yellow's mutation will be passed on to his offspring.  I hope I have done him justice with my painting.

We're Going to the Chapel - Sold

11 x 14" acrylic on board 

I recently found this little chapel and love it. 

Marry Me? - SOLD

Just a day by the lake - a very important day.