At the Marina

Love these days of summer, hanging on the dock while painting the sailboats returning to the marina for lunch!  Participating in the Summit Art plein air event at Lake Jacomo, I happened to find this painting spot just as the sailboats approached. As quickly as I could,  I sketched the boats in motion as they related to the planes of the marina, then went in with watercolor to capture the scene.  Still working as they headed back out on the water, I was able to add more color as the sails were raised.  I think today is the first time I have painted lake water in watercolor!  I always go for oils when painting water, but today I only brought one frame for my oils!  That forced me to reach outside my box - and who knew I would enjoy the process so much!  So happy this painting goes to a home with decades of memories at this place. Painting number 4292 in 4292 days. 

Race Day

Would you believe this is my very first time to Lake Jacomo?  Far enough away, it has never been on my radar - but it sure is now!  What a treat to paint in another Summit Art plein air event, this time at Lake Jacomo  - with a regatta in progress!  It was so fun capturing them in action!  Sketching quickly, I used my super fine Pitt pen for the line work, then dashed in the watercolors as they sailed out of my scene!  Quick and lose was the motto for today, as all of the sailboats were racing!  Painting number 4291 in 4291 days.  

Main Street Inn - ATC

We always have such a great time at the Main Street Inn, we don't stay anywhere else when visiting Sainte Genevieve.  In town to set up a gallery show at Music Art Love, I was out early to do some sketching.  This place is so iconic, i painted it first in a small ATC size.  I found several new places to paint when given a tour around town - very cool historic places on the outskirts of town.  I didn't even know they were there!  Love getting to see and paint these special places - and happy this tiny painting went home with another guest!  Painting number 4290 in 4290 days. 

Zinnias!

I LOVE painting the volunteer zinnias in my garden, collected from my travels while painting! During the Covid lock down, Mom and I made a regional tour to 5 galleries, delivering artwork and commissions.  We stayed in some amazing places, with gorgeous gardens, and I couldn't help but collect seed where it had dropped on public streets.  Some of these were giant zinnias, the largest, fullest, I had seen, in pink, red and purple.  I save seed from year to year, but didn't get around to planting the zinnias this spring.  I have several big, beautiful plants that sprung up on their own from last year's blooms.  They even came up where I would have planted them!  So, tonight I am painting the pink ones as they start their first blush, even after many days in the 100s, and little rain!  I can't wait to paint them in their full glory next month!  Painting number 4289 in 4289 days. 

Phlox

 What a wonderful morning to spend in the garden, after a solid workout at the gym.  Filling my water, I got right out to start weeding the kitchen bed, and worked my way into two other beds before calling it quits.  All the while, I admired the blooms that flourished despite the string of 100 degree days and little rain.  It feels good to nurture these plants, and even better to paint them when I'm finished!  I found another large snakeskin along the foundation, and many bees and hummingbirds buzzing in the flowers!  Painting number 4288 in 4288 days. 

Along LaHaye

I love the old historic streets in towns, the ones that tell a story where they stand.  This street has an old grocer's mural still painted on it's side, though it looks as if it hasn't been open in years.  The way the old houses dot the turning street, speaks of families and life lived in a small town, where the corner store was a staple in the community.  With ink and watercolor, I commemorate this place, a little slice of life in old town Sainte Genevieve. Painting number 4287 in 4287 days, and this painting has a new home, too. 

Chez Elle Creperie

Kansas City is full of wonderful places to gather with friends, and I can't believe I didn't find this place until this year!  It is lovely to sit out under the umbrellas on a gorgeous day, and even lovelier to paint it in the shade of a tree across the street!  The entire area is beautiful, and I hope to come here often to sketch it all!  This painting is Now Showing at PGAV Architects, for Arts KC., along with a collection of my Kansas City artwork.  Painting number 4286 in 4286 days. 

Looking Down Walnut

I love the energy of this small town shopping district!  Largely a pedestrian area, everyone walks or bikes to this busy area, just a couple blocks from Lake Erie.  With umbrellas open and many bikes parked at the stands I couldn't resist painting down this historic street in oils.  It is truly like stepping back in time, where everyone moves at a leisurely pace!  Painting number 4285 in 4285 days. 
 

The Inn St. Gemme

 I like to get out early to sketch when I'm out of town, and this lovely inn is so welcoming in Sainte Genevieve, Missouri.  While in town to set up a gallery showing at Music Art Love, I took the opportunity to sketch a few favorite places at add to the show. I would love to see the inside of this place one day!  Painting number 4284 in 4284 days. 

Lakeside Bandstand

I returned in the morning to finish what I started at sunset.  The golden hour was gorgeous, and after a quick run I started painting this lovely scene, with light pouring in from the west.  I had not yet finished all my ink work when it was too dark to work.  With a few touches, this one was finished - and this painting has a new home, too! Painting number 4283 in 4283 days. 

Same Time Next Year

After painting the Richards House in oils the other day, I wanted to capture it in ink and watercolor, from a different angle.  Seizing my first opportunity, I sketched it out first in ink, following with watercolor.  I especially love the flags and swags adorning the porch - so appropriate for the season.  I am painting small - because Mom and I head to a show shortly!  Wish I had many more days here!  Painting number 4282 in 4282 days. 

Cottages on Walnut

This historic street is full of lovely cottages, right across from the Hoover Auditorium.  Many visited with me as they passed by, some offering history on the various homes.  One lady told me that the leftmost cottage used to be called Albert, and another to the left was called Victoria!  The owner of the yellow house came out and offered me a house tour when I was finished, so I took him up on that offer.  It is just as lovely inside as out, with all the character of a bygone era.  What a treat to paint in such a special place!  Painting number 4281 in 4281 days. 

315 Maple

 It has been so fun to paint another beautiful historic home on Maple street!  I have spent nearly all my painting time on this street and neighboring Walnut Street, painting these wonderful homes!  I did have plans to get down to the hotel to paint, too, but I got rained out  I hope to make this an annual event on my calendar.  I have LOVED making friends up and down this street, and am so happy this painting now resides with the owner!  Painting number 4280 in 4280 days. 

Irishman Covered Bridge

I just can't drive close to a covered bridge without painting it, so I headed over when I got the chance! The Irishman covered bridge connects the pioneer village to Fowler Park, and is well maintained.  Many were enjoying this place, visiting, fishing, walking and camping - much more activity than during Covid.  Mom and I first visited here while dropping artwork off at galleries two years ago.  With only a little time, I painted small and then took a speed walk on the path through the cottage. I found several places that would make perfect paintings, but alas, I'm out of time. LOVE painting the covered bridges of Indiana!! 

Lakeside Beach

Lake Erie was moody and stormy earlier, clearing off enough for me to set up and start painting by 8am.  Even though I started this painting from the pavillion early, I didn't get it finished until the art sale was over!  It was fun to visit with everyone passing by, sharing their memories of places I'd painted.  This small community is special, and I'm so happy I found it.  I hope to return for years to come to the Lakeside Plein Air Festival!  Painting number 4278 in 4278 days. 

Looking Down Second Street

What a great way to start the day - painting this lovely intersection in Lakeside! As I sat on the corner, many people stopped to watch, visiting as I worked.  A couple even wanted to buy it off the easel, but I need to hold sales for tomorrow beginning at 1:30 at the lake front. The weather has been perfect for plein air painting, in the 70s each day, cooling off at night.  I feel so at home here, and have made new friends, I hope to return for years to come!  Painting number 4277 in 4277 days. 

Third and Maple

What a beautiful morning to be out painting Maple street - especially in the early light!  This colorful scene caught my eye yesterday on our way to breakfast, but I didn't get back before the light changed.  So, of course I headed down the street to paint it!  Everyone is so friendly in here, it is taking me quite a bit longer to finish each painting, lol. I was even brought a glass of wine on the street, halfway through the last painting!  I'm having so much fun painting Lakeside!  Painting number 4276 in 4276 days. 

Looking up Maple

I kept coming back to this place today while out scouting the charming town of Lakeside, so I answered the call to paint it before the light faded.  So many walkers, golf carts and people on bikes visited with me on their way to the shops! These 3 historic buildings used to be connected, and were part of the Richard's House, a hotel with 200 rooms - I think!  In the 90s they were separated, and sold as individual units.  There is a plaque in front of the building, I need to go read it to see just what I have painted!  I'm already wishing I had more time to paint here!  Painting number 4275 in 4275 days. 

Marblehead Lighthouse

This morning Mom and I visited one of Dad's favorite places, Marblehead Lighthouse.  We've come here through the years to rest on the rocks, listening to the roar of the waves crash into them. Some days it is gentle and soothing, others strong and forceful. We all used to climb along the rocky edge, jumping from slab to slab.  Dad liked to photograph this place,  selling those images in local galleries.  He'd rest on the benches, with Mom by his side,  as they soaked it all in.  It was lovely to return here, thinking of Dad, on such a beautiful morning for sketching.  Painting number 4274 in 4274 days. 🎨❤️

Garden Path along the Lake

This stretch of walking trail along Lake Erie in Lakeside, Ohio is known as the "Most Beautiful Mile in Ohio".  After taking a sunset run through here last night - the lush gardens beckoned me to paint them!  I walked it to the end and back with my gear today, in search of a sheltered spot from the wind.  I couldn't find that spot, so set up in the strong, cool wind and painted fast!  Those hollyhocks held their own while the wind blew me to and fro!  After a long fought battle, I finished and packed up to seek a spot in the sun, out of the wind! Painting number 4273 in 4273 days.  

Lakeside Beach House

I LOVE painting on the shores of Lake Erie, on the grounds of the historic Hotel Lakeside, where it is like stepping back in time.  Mom sat on a bench in the shade nearby, while I sketched and painted this vintage building on the beach.  Walking through the middle breezeway lands you on the beach, walking out toward the pier where benches and Lake Erie await.  It's been several years since we've been here, and it's bittersweet, as Dad was with us last time along this shore.  We're here for this weekend's plein air event with a sale off the easel Sunday, 1:30 to 3:30.  Looking forward to rest and restoration here in Lakeside. Painting number 4272 in 4272 days 

Main Street Inn

LOVE getting up early for a stroll along Main Street, and seeing the gentle light starting across the buildings.  Irresistible, I enjoyed painting that early morning light on the Main Street Inn, and a couple others before breakfast! This painting now avaliable on location, along with a select few! Inquire within, or better yet - book a stay at this incomparable bed and breakfast!  I won't stay anywhere else in Sainte Genevieve.  Painting number 4271 in 4271 days. 

A Watchful Eye

Each time we return to the Main Street Inn, these darling penguins are positioned throughout the inn.  This one was appeared to be on lookout, greeting guests upon entry, so I painted him at his post!  This Inn in Sainte Genevieve, Missouri, sets the bar for lovely rooms, spacious common areas, and a gracious proprietor who shares the local history in dashing style.  We've had another lovely stay as I set up a gallery show next door at Music Art Love.  Come see all of my local paintings showing through Jour De Fete in August.  Painting number 4270 in 4270 days. 

Looking Down North Main Street

What a charmed life I lead, painting from the steps  of the Main Street Inn in Sainte Genevieve, where every guest is treated like royalty each time we visit!  After a sumptuous breakfast, I headed out to paint. This street scene was very appealing last night from the balcony, and it was on my mind this morning.  I could hardly choose between oils and watercolor, but decided on oils with some deliberation.  I love the way the oils worked for this scene, but still the watercolor rendering is floating around in my head.  It's not often that way, I nearly always know what medium to choose as I enter the scene.  But this time I was truly back and forth several times.  Who knows, maybe I'll choose watercolor tomorrow?!  Painting number 4269 in 4269 days. 

Barns near the Park

This painting of the barns near the fairgrounds of Sainte Genevieve is now showing at Music Art Love!  I started this drawing from an on site sketch and painting in the fall.  Love the timeless quality of this place, standing much as it did a hundred years ago or so. Love getting to paint such amazing places!  Come see this painting in person at the gallery on Main Street in SainteGenevieve, Missouri.  Painting number 4268 in 4268 days!  😍❤️🎨

Heartland Arts Inked

I started this ink drawing on location, when waiting for the daily judging to finish in Steelville. Choosing this paper from the art's council to use for their upcoming fundraiser, I had no idea what to expect.  Well, the paper did not release the ink, water could not persuade it to.  With pen, I heavily applied ink, which also held it's spot when dampened. So, I brought it home to finish, and actually used a brush with ink to get the darks.  This paper is thin and not cotton or rice, and has a wonderful color, but I will not work with it again by choice! I guess I am a bit of a paper snob, lol! Painting number 4267 in 4267 days. 

Meramec River

The mid day summer light can be so strong on the back of the Meramec River.  Values are strong as hues lack the saturation of a cloudy day.  I begin with a sketch, working in those darks before adding color.  The clear water reflects the stones beneath, golden in the shallow parts.  I paint the light hitting the foliage next, then work to the cooler greens. I try to look at my work in the sun, and in the shade, to determine if I am finished.  It can look done before I check it, and then I realize it is too light OR too dark!  I tweaked this a bit after this photo, then called it good.  Love painting along the river so much!  Painting number 4266 in 4266 days. 

Looking Down the Meramec

The views are always amazing along the Meramec River!  This location grabbed me as soon as I walked to water's edge, so I was happy to find some free time to paint here during my mentorship weekend.  The water is so clear, I love the way the golden of the stones beneath reflects through the water.  The colors in the area are unique to this part of the world, and it is a joy to capture them in oils. I've had such fun mentoring the high school students - I can't wait for my next opportunity to do so!  Their enthusiasm for art inspires me, and I hope to have shared my passion for painting, too!  Painting number 4265 in 4265 days. 

Garden at Jean Baptiste Valle House

I love painting the garden of the Jean Baptiste-Valle House, and this time I've chosen ink and watercolor on handmade paper.  This historic place is inside the boundary of the national park in Sainte Genevieve, Missouri.  I painted here in oils during the fall plein air last year, and that painting now hangs in a private gallery.  It feels like a whole new place in a different medium.  I will never tire of painting in a garden!  This will soon be hanging at Music Art Love in Sainte Genevieve, beginning next Thursday!  Painting number 4264 in 4263 days. 

Steeple

Just finished the companion steeple painting of the Sainte Genevieve Catholic Church for a showing at Music Art Love opening next Friday.