Since January 2016 I have become a TGIF person again. We’ve been taking care of our 14 month old grandchild daily since then and that leaves little time for art work. Even if I bring him into the study and give him markers or paint and a brush, there is no continuity in my own work due to interruptions to prevent him from doing something he shouldn’t. Perhaps in another few months when he can talk and understand a little bit more. For now I am a weekend painter. I am looking forward to some Plein air at a farm tomorrow. Sunday will be studio time. I need to do something extraordinary for an upcoming floral show at the Cummer Museum and Gardens. Thee will be stiff competition for the 10 spaces available. JAG (Jacksonville Artists Guild) members are some of the best artists in the area!

It often seems that the latest work is the one I am most in love with. Many of them don't have "staying power" for me. Not that I don't still think they are good. It's just that I get bored with them, I think, and become indifferent. There are a few that I continue to love immensely, though. Usually they have some kind of emotional connection beyond their "looks". Like, "Larry's Spring" which I painted from a photo of my dear friend who is sadly gone from this world, or anything I paint of Guantanamo Bay. This is my latest love:

"Before the Faeries Arrive"

This is actually the first in a series. I am working on number two - which I also love. I am certain I will do a third.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xKFrdlJJbo
Watch this video for a great view of what goes on in the "Studio Club" that I belong to. This is one of the best things I've done to improve my art. Last week was particularly good. I walked in there with a painting I didn't care for and walked out with one I was happy with. The feedback from my fellow artists really helped. This interaction is one of the most wonderful things about painting with other people. 

This is my latest "favorite child". It has the looseness and vibrancy that I most like in watercolor. It was painted as a homage to my sister Cheryl and I think that love made it a success.

"Smokey Mountains"

12x16 watercolor
$250 framed

Art with Heart by Elizabeth St. Hilaire Nelson | Make Your Own Book

I'm really excited about the upcoming show at the JaxPort Cruise Terminal. This is a show that they graciously offered to us in the Art Guild of Orange Park and that we are doing with SoMMA (Society of Mixed Media Artists). It was required to use materials that JaxPort gave us - which were an annual report/brochure and a poster. They makes many efforts to be green there so wanted to recycle their left overs.

Those of us in SoMMA may have had an easier job of this assignment since many of it's members already do collage and mixed media art. Since many of the members of the Art Guild of Orange Park are more traditional painting artists this was a bit more of a challenge. From what I saw in the take in process they came through with flying colors though!

The show travels to JaxPort corporate headquarters and then to the main Jacksonville Public Library. Come to the opening if you've already RSVP'd and enjoy the talent on the walls - oh and the food and music too.

Here are two of my works. You'll have to see the show to see the third!!!!

Okay no one wants to talk serious art philosophy so here's a self promoting post!
I received an Honorable Mention award in the Art Guild of Orange Parks
(http://www.artguildoforangepark.com/)
show at the First Street Gallery

(http://www.firststreetgalleryart.com/)
in Neptune Beach.
Yeah for me!