Art to be accessed

go.

2011-07-18T11:06:00.000-05:00

I was wondering if I could be a little slower.
I've had a stack of panels all at the same pace for, err... 9 weeks now? (I know this because the books from the library claim that they cannot be renewed again).

The upshot is, I feel like most of them are turning out pretty well, considering the pace at which I've kept away from the brushes. not intentionally, mind you; but in some seasons even on the slowest of days it seems like a challenge to get one small thing done.
Know the feeling?

Stay.

2011-07-14T16:47:00.000-05:00

Ahh, the dogs. Been a while. But here's a nice lab (with a few more to come!)

If I have free time

2011-02-23T03:53:00.000-06:00

Can anyone remember the last time I went camping in in my free time?

School illustrations:3

2011-02-07T04:13:00.000-06:00

If I have free time... (I like this one)

I told the class that this would be my choice of things to do if I had free time-- at least in Japan. They thought that was hilarious. There were numerous weeks following where I couldn't go to that class without a song request from a student or 6.

School Illustrations

2011-02-05T21:10:00.000-06:00

If I had free time...

Illustrations for school

2011-02-05T03:53:00.000-06:00

If I have free time...

January

2011-01-26T04:29:00.000-06:00

wowsa. It's been a while since I've been on here. Sorry guys.

So the long and short of it is, Japan is shockingly chilly in the winter. I was living in Denver before I came here: this shouldn't be a problem, right?
"Shouldn't be." Right. I think the difference is that it's not an unfamiliar level of cold, it's that it's cold ALL THE TIME. At home, at work, in the grocery store. Sometimes I go to the movies just because I know that it's gonna be heated in there. For real.

Weather aside, I have cultivated a wee paint-y nook in this cold and tiny space. I am grateful for this space, and its nook. I wish I could easily share more of the things that are being created here.

Spending more time applying for shows and residencies as a new year offers new possibilities along with looming deadlines. Craving less computer time and more mess under my nails. Pulling together an updated and satisfactory portfolio that represents better the current workings.

So I haven't really forgotten you, oh little blog of mine.
...But I suppose I should behave more like that is true...

2010-09-05T02:54:00.000-05:00

So I think I got a lead on an art supply store here in Hamamatsu... have to do a little investigating!

I've been deliberating exactly how I will do the painting work I want to do while here. Not for lack of time (although my energy is being diverted to other things so far;) but where exactly.
The way my apartment's set up, there is little room for superfluous activities. "Superfluous" in this case meaning "moving very much."
It's slightly bigger than a breadbox-- which pleased me, to be honest. Although I'm having a hard time picturing company coming over.

There is a rather nice lofty bit where I should theoretically be sleeping which I think might be just the ticket.As long as I remember to bring all my good up the ladder. I can't see dashing up and down because I forgot a brush or need more water.
So all we lack now perhaps are the supplies...?

Packing paints

2010-07-16T13:29:00.000-05:00

So I guess it's about time to start packing up my painting. Moving. MOVING! I'm very excited.

I have to say I am a little disjointed... mostly from the lack of time. Lack of time to pack and therefore lack of time also to paint. The many mid-project things are still in the "mid" state.
I did consider bringing some paints with me to Nashville, which would have been quite feasible had I checked a bag. Oh! these FDA regulations. Pphhhfft.

So the next thing to do is decide what must come with me and what will ship soon after. Gotta keep this painting thing going. It is too good to not try.

2010-07-01T16:54:00.000-05:00

Working on multi-pieces at once. Too hot to move much. I know, I'm a big baby.

So everything is mid-stage, middle process. Therefore nothing to show just yet... should be done all at once more or less.
Inconvenient for updates but handy for the work process.
Like reading a stack of books all at once, right?

From Spain-- sorted a bit

2010-06-29T11:57:00.000-05:00

Midmorning light: to Cheer You

2010-06-28T15:31:00.000-05:00

The Ramblas!

2010-06-26T20:33:00.000-05:00

Similar to the Barcelona paintings I've been hot after since I've been back (the pinkish one from a few days ago,) these are much more atmospheric than what I normally tend to do.
But how can you go to a place and not try to capture what the surroundings are?
You've just got to.

One of the (sadly,) few museums that I made it to while I was in Barcelona was the Miro-- which was great. More additional places to see on my return visit, right? ;)

While I was struggling/painting through this at Can Serrat, someone there commented that it looked like I approached piece in a rather "Miro-esque" fashion: solid aggressions of color and then forms that emerge from there. I know what I'm looking at, but I don't know if the forms communicate as well to the viewer as they need to? On the other hand, neither were the things that Miro did. Weren't always so clear. ("Oh, that's a bird?"-- alot of that in my brain.)

Suffice to say, I kind of like it.

Mt. Serrat

2010-06-25T13:18:00.001-05:00

Serrated mountains near El Bruc. (have I posted this yet?)

Took an evening/ sunset walk where the rocks all glowed pink. Olive groves and evening poppies closing down in the dusk.
Lovely.

Some Spain starts:

2010-06-23T17:16:00.000-05:00

I started trying to pull together some intentions with paint from the reference pictures that I took in Barcelona. The trouble is, I'm not sure where I'm headed with some of these.
I naturally pictures there would be some people involved, but now that I have the setting established I think anything additional might muddy the business?

So here's the start. I haven't determined if it's done.
I enjoy it, even if it is just a beginning!

and finally, the Yorkie

2010-06-23T17:05:00.000-05:00

Shepherd, and all the rest

2010-06-22T19:25:00.001-05:00

(Moments ago)

2010-06-14T11:57:00.000-05:00

2010-06-12T15:19:00.001-05:00

yup yup.

pups, oh pups

2010-06-10T16:12:00.000-05:00

They say they love dogs.
Commissions underway for a shop in Montgomery, AL:

2010-06-09T15:22:00.001-05:00

So it's taken nearly two weeks, but I think I've finally come to grips with being back.
This is not a bad thing, it's just different.

Still intend to properly document the paintings I did while I was in Spain-- but I've started rolling with new things! Can't help but always be a bit more excited about the new things...
Dogs on order, and then my "personal" paintings... the ones that deeply please me.

Things worth sharing to come.

Yucca Steps

2010-05-31T10:25:00.000-05:00

So remember how delighted I was when I encountered those gigantical yuccas when I first got to Can Serrat? This one one of the earliest paintings, on the 6x6" boards that I brought with me. I brought enough boards to do at least one painting a day (as I had been doing here).

But wouldn't you know I got so excited by the large canvas options (and the space in which to work on them!) and distracted by sunshine and food and friendly new faces that I don't have many of these small guys to show for it.
The few others that I did do while there I left behind as small gifts. Art-tokens. Happy birthday, and all that.

But that's ok!-- there's plenty of time yet to play catch up.

Enjoying Denver again albeit surprisingly uncomfortable-hot. Can't believe I still needed access to snow boots when I packed up a month ago. Will certainly have to find a shady spot and a cervesa to pull it on through...

Additional sketches; other Spain-type items

2010-05-29T13:49:00.000-05:00

Final Days: Can Serrat

2010-05-26T11:37:00.000-05:00

Mt. Serrat

2010-05-26T10:37:00.000-05:00

Ramblas painting: new studio space

2010-05-24T07:43:00.000-05:00

2010-05-23T12:04:00.001-05:00

I'm listening to boys roll down the hill in front of the house on their bikes-- break-neck speed, shouting in Catalan to one another. Making quite a fuss. It sounds like they're having a grand bit of fun.

Tomorrow is my last full day at Can Serrat. I've already done laundry and begun gathering my things so I can find them when the time comes to close my bag. Still have paintings to pull down from the wall; but I'm not quite ready to go that far... I think I may yet have some painting left to do, with the tiny time that is left.

"Memorable" would certainly be the way to describe my time here.
I've been keeping my personal notes so that I do (or don't, as the case may be,) remember all the details of my time here. I was trying to imagine my fill-you-in-on-the-details stories when I get back, and to be honest SO much has happened, it may come out in spurts. How can it just be one month?
There should definitely be wine involoved in the story-telling.
My arm has been twisted into signing up for facebook-- mostly so I can keep up with people that would otherwise be ships in the night. Interesting how between timing and coincidence and a few shared interests we can know each other in ways that would be seemingly impossible under other more "normal" circumstances.

It's early in the evening and I've come outside to sit in the grass and feel the remaining warmth of what was a very hot afternoon. Quiche for dinner! and perhaps some wine, as would be proper. Lovely ladies for some late-night conversation. A new arrival today!

I don't know how I'll re-adjust to my other life as I have become accustomed to it here, like this.

Gaudi!

2010-05-23T06:01:00.000-05:00

We didn't get to go in because it was getting late and the whole thing is under construction. The outside alone was worth seeing though.
Crazy!

monestary

2010-05-21T09:06:00.001-05:00

Catalan Thursday

2010-05-20T04:25:00.000-05:00

It's almost painfully gorgeous here today-- quiet but for the birds, laundry hanging outside, and the sun, again.
I realized when I woke up this morning, that this is my last Thursday at Can Serrat. Not that Thursdays are particularly special; it just means that a week from now I'll be back in Denver. Back to my apartment. Back to life that is "normal" life. This too shall pass? It's hard to from a place where you feel so at ease, Both with myself and with the surroundings that have quickly become so familiar.
I finally put my hands on a yoga mat this morning! It was lovely to stretch, with the serrated mountains as a backdrop. Ridiculous, I tell you.

Some things I'll be able to carry with me-- a fresh crop of the season's first freckles, for instance, and of course there is the option to return in future.
I feel like I need to be even more intentional about my remaining time here-- both at the house and with the paintings that I start, as well as time in the city and socializing with the people that have the same shared experience.

I'm sitting outside at the big stone table. Most of the house has already started to work on their various projects. We were/are waiting to see a man about a horse (horseback riding.... yes,) but maybe he meant 10:00 at night? Who knows when he may appear. That's quite all right.

Cooking class again tonight. No tortilla! We shall see what kind of magic is left yet to concoct.

Dripped in Contentment (Overnight in Barcelona)

2010-05-20T04:03:00.001-05:00

live and dream?

Rainshine, Barceloneta

2010-05-18T09:51:00.001-05:00

It's interesting to me, how the work here arranges itself in a way that I could not have anticipated.
I'm enjoying the new medium (straight canvas, I mean,) and wonder how some of these might transfer onto stretchers once I bring them back!

I was trying-- for this one, to document some of the process as well as the final painting. But it would seem that I don't have a good picture (read: non-blurry,) of the final result. That will come. More color... I think I like it.
For now, here was the beginning stages of a painting of Da-nah (aka, Princess of Korea) when we all spent some time wandering through the rain.

concert tonight:poster

2010-05-15T08:56:00.000-05:00

2010-05-15T03:54:00.000-05:00

It's amazing that time can move simultaneously so quickly and so slowly. I don't know if that makes sense, but it feels like I've been here forever-- I can't believe it's only been a month! and at the same time, I can't believe my time here is almost over. Strange.

So much has happened... I've been trying to picture and note most of it as it occurs just to have some sense of chronology, if nothing more.

But there is always more, isn't there?
Enjoying some precious, delicious Turkish coffee and bob bons for breakfast.

And the parrots are another story.

2010-05-14T04:41:00.000-05:00

The Rain in Spain

2010-05-13T04:37:00.003-05:00

On the ride home from an epic day yesterday (and I do not use this word lightly;) we had to stop the car. A complete double rainbow framing Mont Serrat and the Spanish plains, as it was. Unbelievable.

Skipping to the last of the day for the first of the post:

link:

2010-05-13T04:29:00.000-05:00

For more on Sant Jordi, Can Serrat, and some extra-great pictures:
http://dkim-art.com/hellostranger/

The Bocaria, Barcelona

2010-05-10T12:10:00.002-05:00

(all candy here-- can you believe?)

2010-05-10T11:55:00.002-05:00

Sorry-- don't know why that whole thing was highlighted. Strange..

celebració

2010-05-10T04:44:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was a celebració! Jaume's 45th birthday and his parents' 50th anniversary, coinciding on the same Sunday. So naturally there were festivities.

We went (invited ourselves, really, but I don't think anyone minded,) to mass at Mont Serrat up the mountain with the whole family. The church was SO crowded, standing room only, and even then people kept coming in after the service had begun. Jaume's family had reserved the first 2 pews, so there was a place of honor-- and I am told they were mentioned during the service-- on their special day. Of course the mass was in Catalon, but I like to imagine that I understood more than I could have been expected to.
Universal church, right?

I wish I had pictures to share. I hope to get back up there with a camera (and maybe fewer people). The church and monastery are at the top of the mountain, where the air is always cooler and the view overlooks all of what is left below. It's a complex, really, the things that have been built up around this place on top of the mountain. There is a cafeteria and dorms where if you were so inclined you could check in to meditate for a while. And the art. Really all quite overwhelming.
We have plans this week to take the "Jaume tour" of a handful of Romanesque churches in the region-- difficult to get to by bus and generally off the beaten path. I think it should be fantastic.

Back at the ranch, supper was being prepared for 23, give or take.
Starting with cava and appetizers on the patio, the rain did not seem to put a damper on the good mood. Mussels in some deliciousness that could not be revealed, capers still on the stem, cheese, and some new version of bite-sized ham delights. Mmmmm. (I have found that this sound seems to be universal.)
Then the party was moved into the bodega where tables where arranged to best advantage of at least making faces at one another (in the case of the English-speakers), if not for talking.
The dinner started with Shrimp with vegetables in a coconut sauce (not coconut milk-- sauce, that was perfect for sopping). Then a mixed salad with a soy sauce dressing. Interesting, right? Finally we had lamb with garlic and leeks, etc. There was a sauce on the side that I could have eaten straight out of the container. I was obliged to share, though. The best way it can be described is something similar to a garlic mayonnaise made with the fat of the lamb? Holy wowza. Super-good.
But then there should be cake, right?

Freshly made tiramisu, folks. and either coffee to accompany dessert or more cava, (or both).
Then speeches all around! Not, I did not give a speech, but they appeared to be quite touching, which is something you pick up despite the language barier. Family appreciated, all by all.

I am awfully grateful that we were included in such a celebration. I was promised that if I bring all my friends to Can Serrat for my birthday, it will be the same.
Who's in?

All Nighter

2010-05-08T10:12:00.003-05:00

Big times in Barcelona.
So the idea was to go into the city to witness what the nighttime traffic looked like. Not a problem, right?
I guess that would depend on what you consider "nighttime."
I looked up a few things in the guidebook and online and got some recommendations for places to go, but nothing opened until midnight. And I think that was supposed to be for sake of the tourists.

The last bus to El Bruc (and Can Serrat), however, left the station at 10:30. Hmmm... sounds strangely like the bus schedule Denver.
Guess we'll make it all-nighter.

All-nighters do not seem to be as great a challenge when restaurants are still happy to seat new customers as late as 1 am. No problem!
We did have another delightful meal (I got the fixed menu, which culminated in a lamb risotto! more on that, perhaps?); but I still felt very proud of our little group when we easily found places to be and things to do until 2:30.
Then the rain came. And did it rain! Soaking wet and cold with still 3-plus hours to go.
Did I mention that the earliest morning bus wasn't until 6:20?

We did find a place to go, but I must say, it's not what we expected. I didn't realize from the outside that the place we chose didn't appear crowded because everyone (and I do mean everyone,) was downstairs. Could not move for all the people. So many people. I considered having my "free" drink in the bathroom because that was the only space available to turn around in. Good golly.
We left early (5:30-- sounds strange that so late can also be early?). and headed for the bus-- which was also early. Hard to believe, right? Yeah. Missed the bus.

So we were also witness the miracle of the Catalonian sunrise from a bus stop in Barcelona.

Spent the day keeping pretty quiet... a repeat of that cheese plate from last night might be appropriate, and gearing up for festivities yet to come, both tonight and tomorrow.

studio space

2010-05-02T12:23:00.002-05:00

and "first" painting (one with which I am pleased).

What a setup, right?

Saw the Sea Today, ohh boy

2010-05-01T08:33:00.001-05:00

I don't think that I've mentioned it here, but the first few days I was here I couldn't understand why I was singing Beatles songs to myself every morning over breakfast? Never the same song, but always the Beatles.
Took me a while to realize that all the coffee mugs we've been given to use have the Beatles, in some form or other, all over them.
"All we need is love, love. Love is all we need..."

But I did see the sea, right on the edge of this metropolis. Amazing.

Rain today, though. Somehow the rain seems sad to me on this occasion. Perhaps enforced time indoors. Or perhaps other things.

2010-04-30T15:25:00.000-05:00

The Ham that is Heaven

2010-04-29T06:06:00.004-05:00

Last night was a blowout: a going away dinner for half the group.
We heard rumors of the existence of a regional ham that one New Yorker calculated sold for more than what a person could expect to pay for crack cocaine. I'm not kidding.

Oh, there was ham! But I understate it-- please let me explain.

It is called Joselito, a special pig that is allowed to gorge itself on acorns... kinda like fois gras but for pork. There's I'm sure some middle portions that I missed, (including any cruelty that makes it dead,) and then the meat is cured until it develops a particular mold like a good cheese would. It can keep up to 10 years. It's allowed to sweat before serving, best at room temperature, and it got better and better with each bite. (I found a little something more here.)

Of course any edible additions to this would be a crime unto the pig, so we ate it straight. But with a traditional dry sherry that is made to accompany it. Wow. It did keep getting better and better.

That could have been enough. By all rights it should have been! but the meal does not end yet.

After this we had gazpacho, with fresh croutons and one perfect gambeta (shrimp) apiece. Garlic and peppers and apples, oh my.
Oh, and we were eating outside on the terrace... with a full moon. Just to picture this as it was.

I don't know what the meat was for the main course, but I'm making myself hungry again.
It was steak, rare, with a sweet dessert cheese on one side and a sauce that takes two days to make on the other. The name of it wasn't familiar, but I was told it was like a Hollandaise or Bechamel sauce. A side note with panache and character. So, so good.
Of course with this we had more wine. Chateauneuf-du-Pape. I needn't explain that.

I confess that I am glad I was sitting at the end of the table at the end of the group so there were fewer conversations to contribute to.
All I wanted to do was focus on the food! Unbelievable.
And THEN chocolate, from a very special chocolatier in Barcelona. Dark chocolate over slivers of candied orange rind, hazelnut bars, and semi-sweet samplers... with a dry white wine, naturally. Exemplary.
I'm a little bit jealous of my last night self, and I was there! What a way to go.

Llarga vida a Catalunya!

a few from Barcelona

2010-04-28T11:51:00.001-05:00

Yukoo for Yuccas!!

2010-04-27T10:17:00.000-05:00

I couldn't tell you why I am so delighted to see yuccas on a giant scale. But I am. Wherever I am.

Here is my thrill at the local yucca discovery. My second large-scale painting is centered. on the yucca. Yipee!

El Bruc

2010-04-27T09:52:00.000-05:00

alright, St. Jordi

2010-04-26T08:40:00.004-05:00

So I got at least one e-mail that said the previous post left a person in the lurch: "St Jordi," and then no forthcoming explanation. What can i say-- I was pinched for time.

Apparently St. Jordi's Day (St. George,) is Valentine's Day here. "The day of lovers and books!" Who wouldn't go for that?
Traditionally all the women are presented with a rose-- often accompanied with a piece of wheat? as was mine,-- and all the men are given a book. I am a lady who likes flowers, but I think in this case I might have had the bum deal...

We went to the next small town over on Friday in the afternoon in an attempt to see booksellers and lovers in true Catalan fashion.
Sadly, it was raining, so the turnout wasn't quite up to its usual standard (we were later informed), but interesting nevertheless.
There were stands with roses to buy and booths with books of all flavors. Music and rain and milling. I considered buying a book for myself, and then was reminded that I read Catalan as well as I speak it. Which is to say not a bit.
And besides, I had my rose.

The posting, however,was for the party at Can Serrat on Friday night. It was the first opening of the house and presentation of the facility since it has changed hands and been fixed up. It is really great here-- more on that later.
Everyone who came was given a glass of Cava -- and a rose, if you were a woman, and each artist did a presentation of the work they've done during their visit. In my case I posted paintings from this year to share all in one go. As of Friday I had nothing new (from here) to present.

So that, my friends, is the story.
The party was a success. It sounds (from my aforementioned Catalanian skills,) that everyone that came from the town really enjoyed themselves and were appreciative of the opportunity to see what's been going on in the big house down the hill. There is a small, talented group here, half of which will be leaving at the end of this week. ;(
But what a great introduction to my time here! It's my understanding that there will certainly be more memorable things to come.

St. Jordi's Day

2010-04-23T13:36:00.002-05:00

Impressions so far

2010-04-22T04:21:00.000-05:00

Here of some pictures from around the house. Thought you might enjoy.

SPAIN. Arriba!!

2010-04-21T12:25:00.001-05:00

Oh, don't you know I made it!
Jet lag still biting me in the head a little bit, but my enthusiasm will banish it by tomorrow, I'm sure. ;)

It's been a long time since I've been on a transatlantic flight... my seat refused to recline, don't you know, and I kept falling over trying to sleep upright. A girl can only sleep on her tray table for so long.
Plenty of re-routed Europeans filling the plane, many of whom seemed able to sleep in a teenie seat.
Well worth the effort.

So happy to be here!

Volcanic what?

2010-04-18T15:37:00.001-05:00

So what's this about volcanic ash?!
Spain's still not on the "no-fly" list, but it sure is close.

As long and as much as I've been looking forward to this trip, it wouldn't bother me one bit to postpone flying for a few days to make sure everything smooths out...
Although, as far as I can tell the volcano's still erupting, right? This could get interesting, folks.
pictures

Saw an interview on the BBC with a pilot that inadvertently flew through the same mess nearly 30 years ago on a flight from Heathrow to Australia.
As the guy was British, in the interview he explained that he got on the cabin intercom and said something to the effect of,
"Ladies and Gentlemen: as you may have noticed we are experiencing some difficulty due to all four of our engines catching fire. Please believe we are doing our utmost to get them restarted. I trust that you will do your best to remain calm. Thank you."

I had to laugh. "Our utmost"-- they were going down! Gratefully, they were able to make an emergency landing not in the Indian Ocean and live to tell the tale.
Indeed, I pray that I will never have a similar story to share-- for lack of experience, that is, not for inability to tell it... if you know what I mean.

A Hound who is not Grey

2010-04-16T13:24:00.000-05:00

So I have this really bad habit of reading something interesting about, fill-in-the-blank, and remembering just the over-arching topic and the bits that made the story interesting but none of the real thread of the story which is most important.

I usually don't realize that I don't remember the punchline until I've begun a verbal launch into what in my head is a great story and worth sharing.

That said, I read (when I was painting this) why Greyhounds are called Grey-hounds, despite that not being their color. Something about hunting dogs and grey meaning something other than the color....
Wish I could tell you why that is; it was an interesting story!

Papillion, deux

2010-04-15T15:24:00.000-05:00

Oh, King Charles! What a Spaniel you are.

2010-04-14T09:21:00.000-05:00

the sadest Bullmastiff ever

2010-04-13T10:45:00.000-05:00

2010-04-12T17:47:00.001-05:00

So as you may have gathered, I am gathering myself (and a few straggling paintings) and getting more or less ready to head out of town! So many details to attend to-- which I certainly don't mind, but my brain is whirling a bit.

A few more commissioned dogs as I go! (Fuzzy or blurry?)

Impending flight

2010-04-09T12:55:00.000-05:00

So I am fluctuating between delight and nerves concerning this impending trip to Spain. What have a forgotten? What's been on my list all along and yesterday was the time to do it? So many things. I have a list to check twice but I think I lost it.

Thank you verily to ALL who have contributed and encouraged with this venture. I think there will be delightful things to share from it.
Still hunting for that physical space in which I can display works yet to be crafted, but for your own piece of paradise (or Spain, however you prefer to view it,) I leave you a secondary option:
Painting in the Works

Thanks again-- Hope you enjoy!

Boxer I: Majic the Poodle

2010-04-07T13:44:00.002-05:00

Some commissions that I have steadily at work on! So happy that everyone seems to like these ( and other) dogs.

Got more to share!

Unfortunately I've been playing catch-up with these commission pieces... that's not the unfortunate part.

The unfortunate part is that I don't have any ones that have been painted that are postable to the e-bay link that I was making a happy habit of.ft before I leave for the residency in Spain!

Color me excited-- I'm ready to go.

Bluebonnets of Texas

2010-04-05T18:18:00.000-05:00

Springtime flowers!

Pug with International Flair

2010-04-03T10:41:00.000-06:00

Ah, oui, ze Frenchie Pug!

Happy Easter weekend.

White and pink and fluffy all over

2010-04-01T15:14:00.002-06:00

I know, I know, "designer dogs are so owner specific!
Well I just think they're awfully cute.
Hope you like this one: Cavachon, again for sale on e-bay.

Painting in the making

2010-03-31T12:13:00.000-06:00

So here's a new idea...
As I've been steadily fund raising by selling little paintings of dogs and other whatnots linked here and through ebay, I realize that these small studies won't stop once I head out of town. I don't know what connections will be like as far as uploads and posting images, however. (Sorry for the laxness of the ebay postings lately, folks— more forthcoming!)

That said, I would still like to offer these much anticipated Barcelona-location pieces for sale.

Personally, I like the idea of pre-purchasing a work of art: a pre-determined size (for pre-determined price) and getting a lovely surprise painting in the mail upon my return!

I've got more information and a way to sign up via the website, which has also been recently updated.
If you've got questions, though, I'm happy to field them through an e-mail: lexieholeman@yeslex.com

Leo

2010-03-30T09:05:00.002-06:00

Another commission that I thought I would share: Leo the Pug!
Isn't he the cutest?

Rover

2010-03-29T08:52:00.000-06:00

Hello, little Corgy, favorite of the Queen!

I did this one for my grandparents, who had a similar dog named Rover.
Thought I would share!

Oldies but Goodies

2010-03-23T11:26:00.000-06:00

For a short time it has been suggested that I recycle some of the small paintings that some of you might have missed.

So for now, one new one:

and some older goodies.

Lax

2010-03-20T09:51:00.000-06:00

For those of you who have been aware of the recent slackerness with the paintings here, I do apologize. I suppose it was bound to happen at some point; but with the going out of town and then work when I got back... I know, excuses excuses.
We'll get some more going here again shortly!

Happy spring!

International Faces Juried Online Show

2010-03-16T17:13:00.000-06:00

Well what do you know?
Upstream People Gallery Current Exhibition

Yorktese... what is this, a game?

2010-03-16T11:39:00.001-06:00

When you combine a Yorkshire Terrier and a Maltese, you guessed it: a Malork, wait no! A Yorktese.

Back from galavanting out of town so there will be more paintings posted here and on ebay in the next week. Also shipments from over the weekend go out today!-- thanks for your patience, to those of you who have been waiting.

Cockalier

2010-03-13T10:37:00.000-06:00

So I know that there is somehow a Cocker Spaniel involved here, but this one is specifically a Cockalier.
I think this one is sweet!

Retriever had a Poodle friend

2010-03-11T19:54:00.001-06:00

Continuing the designer dog series, here is one that I have indeed met before:
Goldendoodle!

Super-cute. All the way from Austin (out of town for the weekend)-- hopefully have enough paintings ready to post here even from a distance.
Enjoy.

Poogle

2010-03-10T09:54:00.000-06:00

It's the week of designer dogs!!

This one is a Poogle-- I try to make a note of what the combos are... a Beagle a Poodle? A puppy and a beetle?
Either way we like him.

I can identify with the spots

2010-03-09T11:25:00.001-06:00

I was happily informed some years ago that these fine canines herald from the Dalmatian coast (Croatia for those of you in the know). I don't knw what the spots are all about, but I find them quite charming.
2nd runner up for me as far as my personal list of favorites goes.

But does anybody know the history of how they've become fireman's dogs? Lots of fires on the coast Croatia? The Irish firemen in NY liked the way they looked riding on the truck?

Rounding out the Sweet Tooth

2010-03-08T11:13:00.000-06:00

Cherry Chocolate Cake

There are dogs again tomorrow, but in the meantime I thought I'd carry the weekend sweet-tooth theme through to Monday.

To me it looks good enough to eat.

Twice as Nice

2010-03-06T13:29:00.001-06:00

A reprieve from dogs for the weekend--
Double the cupcake, double the fun.

Never fear! there will be more dogs here.
Be sure to check back on Monday for new and even more delightful little paintings that are now available.
And as always, thanks for all your continued support with these paintings.

If there is something particular you would like to commission I am presently taking orders and creating a queue for the time left prior to the Spain trip! Would love to paint something in particular for you. ;)

Hello? Dog

2010-03-05T12:16:00.000-06:00

This such a sweet little dog, caught in the act of something I'm sure...
I do believe that it is a specific breed much like the others that I've posted here, but I can't for the life of me remember what he's called.

Anybody else know?

Mascot

2010-03-04T10:03:00.000-06:00

Bulldog! on e-bay

I was recently asked whether I would be available/able to do commission pieces of specific dogs. Sure!
Give me a holler either through this site (post a comment with your question) or via e-bay and I'll get in touch to give you details about sizes and pricing as well as time-frame availabilities.

Can't wait to see what you've got.

Hello, retriever friend

2010-03-03T13:23:00.001-06:00

We had a retriever growing up-- not quite like this one, but similar.
The sweetest of dogs.

Honey wasn't the sharpest dog in the pack, but she was loyal and Oh-so friendly.

It's been nice out the last few days in Denver and there seems to be a magic moment at the end of the day where all the world is freshly home from work and out walking their dog. Canine convergence all up and down the sidewalk. Can only imagine what the parks are looking like.
Makes me smile.

Boston II

2010-03-02T12:56:00.000-06:00

In a long lineage of Boston Terriers: Boston II

Purple Hound, with sad dog eyes...

2010-03-01T11:09:00.000-06:00

Hound dog on e-bay!

Red Sox fan

2010-02-26T11:13:00.000-06:00

I hear that there are a handful of folks out there that are big Boston Terrier fans.

Here's one for Friday!

Nanna?

2010-02-25T09:56:00.000-06:00

Ooooo, Saint Bernard! I think this one might be in the running for sweetest dog ever.
And also big, drooley, and adorable.

More to come.

He's a lucky Scottish dog.

2010-02-24T13:42:00.000-06:00

Scottie!

The Papillion is a funny dog

2010-02-23T11:46:00.002-06:00

The dog is cat. the cat is a lady. The tramp is a pup... no wait. It is a dog.

Here we have a Papillion.

I know, I know just yesterday I said I was going to put a hold on the dogs. But "we want more dogs!" you said, so here we go.

So to answer the new question, I don't know how long this is going to last (the theme of dogs, that is). Certainly there are enough dog breed varieties to paint a distinct one every day for a very long time.
At this point that is not the goal. The goal is for you lovely people to enjoy what you see here and hopefully also help with contributions by buying these little guys to get me all the way to the residency in Spain in April. That's coming up super-soon, and I still need all the help I can get!

Thanks so much again to all of you who are continually checking out the blog or e-bay and forwarding these posts to friends that I have not yet met. Every bit of it is so appreciated.

I'll do my best to keep up some good work.

"Perfect Pooch"

2010-02-22T09:56:00.000-06:00

Hooray! this is so nice. Thanks, Emily.

http://fernandflora.blogspot.com/2010/02/perfect-pooch.html

Double dog

2010-02-22T09:51:00.000-06:00

And one to grow on.

So I said I was gonna do dogs just for a week, but here we've got a final Monday installation: Poodles.

I really did have a lot of fun doing these different dogs, but I think I'm gonn a give it rest for the time being and come back to them again at a later date.
Other themes to begin here soon!

I am still amenable to requests, however. If there was a particular pup that you would like that you did not see (or is already gone,) I'd be happy to make that happen for you.

The Dane is Great

2010-02-20T11:54:00.001-06:00

So as I was saying, everyone has their favorite. This one is my personal favorite:
Great Dane

Something about their giant-ness is really endearing to me. There will be a time when I will have a Dane of my own!

Bulldog pup

2010-02-19T10:34:00.000-06:00

It seems fantastic to me not only how many people are "dog people," but that there are very very particular dog that we are people about. It's hard to run even a portion of the gamut in just a week, so I will certainly revisit the dog theme again at a later date. I've had fun! and got a handful of suggestions that I wasn't able to get to on this round of little paintings.

Never fear! I have my trusty notebook and a paintbrush full of intentions. Keep sending your ideas my way and you never know what might pop up here next.

In the meantime, I was told that there are some bulldog particular people out there. This guy's just a pup!

Hope you enjoy.

Cocker Spaniel

2010-02-18T10:52:00.000-06:00

This one looks very nearly as proud as the little daschund from the beginning of the week.

Oh, Cocker Spaniel, so sweet and friendly, you pee on the floor cause you're happy to see me.
Your coat is so glossy, your paws are quite big; if you thought it would please us you might do a gig.

Alright, not my best rhymer-y... but you get the idea.

I see-it-I-see-it

2010-02-17T12:49:00.000-06:00

Pointer!

Wolfhound

2010-02-16T11:00:00.000-06:00

This started out as a straight German Shepard, but now I dub it my Multicolored Wolfhound! Much like Joseph and his technicolor dreamboat.... or dream machine.

Ok I'm kidding. But I do like this dog

Happy Mardi Gras!

2010-02-16T10:53:00.000-06:00

I am a mighty fine dog

2010-02-15T13:56:00.001-06:00

So I thought that this week I might stick to a theme for the work that I post and sell. I heard more about that little dog than many of the others, so perhaps a dog theme? Thought it might be fun.

I'll try my best to run the gamut (small dogs are more fun to paint but the big ones have my love)-- but if I miss the one that needs doing feel free to let me know, and we'll see what we can do.

So, the first in the running: Hot Dog.

Valentine weekend

2010-02-13T12:58:00.000-06:00

So I did this one a while ago but thought it might be appropriate for Valentine's weekend.
Little ladybugs attempting the maze!

2010-02-11T19:15:00.000-06:00

Much later in the day than as become my habit, but here is today's small painting, gooses. How I do love the gooses. These don't appear to necessarily be Canadian geese, but rather the same goose-shape and notion.

And just to get a jump on tomorrow!

Keeping the bow-tie straight. Looks to me like a party.

Thanks, as always, for checking these out.

Please call me Peetie

2010-02-10T11:39:00.000-06:00

The pack and send place that I have begun to frequent down the street (to send out these little works!) has 2 parrots that man, er... bird the door.

One is red and yellow and the other is bright blue. They seem pretty friendly, as far as birds go; but the more entertaining part of them is the imitations they provide.
So everybody who's seen a pirate movie or walked into a pet store knows that parrots are imitators, but until you hear how well they do it it's still befuddling.
While I'm there I can hear the door shriek and dingle and the woman who answers the phone over and over all through the mouth of the parrot. It must be strange to hear your own voice come from a bird. I haven't asked her what their names are, but this one I'm calling "Peetie."

V-day Boutique

2010-02-09T11:28:00.000-06:00

A few of the sales from last night's Valentines boutique! Thanks to everybody who came...

This chien's a terrier

2010-02-08T12:16:00.000-06:00

This is from a little French book called "Chien". The pictures are all black and white and it's fun to try and translate what's said about each breed.

This chien is a terrier.

Some girsl like candy

2010-02-06T12:30:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I like candy too.
But aren't orchids so much prettier?