FATuesday Artist Spotlight #35

I created Featured Art Tuesday Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes every type of medium, sculpture, watercolour, pen and ink, oils, gardening, interior decorating, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry--the list goes on and on.  

Each one of us is creative in one way, or another--FATuesday Artist Spotlight celebrates the creativity found in every person.

  For details on how to join FATuesday Artist Spotlight  
see the bottom of the page.
  I hope you will join in the fun!

I am tremendously privileged to introduce you to Priscilla Williams.  I found this incredibly talented artist quite by accident.  This sensitive lady's work touches my heart and inspires me to look upward in a new way.  Priscilla puts a lot of wonderful symbolism into her artwork.  

What I love about her work is there are many things which come to mind when viewing her paintings.  For me, the little cub seeking refuge between the Great King's paws deeply touches my heart.  I identify with that little cub.  How often I run into the arms of God who loves me.   He surrounds my heart with melody.  I am safe nestled there.

Of this powerful painting, Priscilla writes,  “The first six words of Jewish blessings are: Baruch ata Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam. This means: Blessed are You, O Lord, our God, King of the universe. These words remind the speaker that one is connected to God on a personal level, a corporate level, and finally a universal level.”   What an amazing thought--that we can actually know the Creator of the Universe on a personal level.  It is mind boggling.

To see more of Priscilla  Williams' incredibly moving artwork, visit Living Water Productions.

I have been following Desiree's wonderful blog since I started blogging.  She is such a creative person.  I love watching what she comes up with next!  You will too.  She inspires my imagination.  Her artwork is so colorful, bright and a delight to the eye.

Desiree writes, “I have been playing with Copic markers in the studio again. They are very interesting and artists are able to do some amazing things with them on paper. I however am playing with them on fabric. Its another place where I can get that watercolor feel I love, loosing the control I like to have and just letting the magic happen. I am trying different fabrics like silks and muslin along with different methods.”

To see more of Desiree's wondrously eclectic artwork visit The Clothesline.

Ah, to be a fairy

Floating on air,

Flitting about

Without a care.

Ah, to be soaring

On gossamer wings,

Enjoying whatever

The sunny day brings.

Ah, to settle down

At the end of day,

Knowing tomorrow's magic

Will be full of play.

-Randi Kuhne

I have always loved poetry--there is something about the rhythm, rhyme and cadence of poetry which embraces the soul .  Randi Kuhne is a new discovery.  Her words are winsome and paint beautiful pictures of fairies.  If you are enchanted by fairytales--you will love her work.  She inspires me with the art of her words in poetry. 

Randi writes, "I've written poems since grade school and began to focus on fairies several years ago...  Eventually I will illustrate some of my fairy poems and sell them online."  I, for one, can hardly wait!

To read more of this gifted poet's exceptional poetry visit My Fairy Poems.

One fabulous aspect of facebook, is I've found so many artists there who inspire me.  Pam Utton is new to me--but what an inspiration she is.  She has a special gift for bringing animal faces to life.  I am so charmed by each animal's individual personality.  In addition to her artwork, this wonderful self-taught artist runs Art 4 Causes on Facebook. 

Pam writes, "...My primary medium is watercolor, but I also paint with acrylic and with glass enamel paint. I have loved art and animals for as long as I remember and provide fundraisers and give back a % of sales to rescues. I would love to capture your pet for you in the medium and artistic style of your choice. My goal is for you to see the soul of your pet when you look in their eyes."  

To see more of Pam's adorable artwork, visit Pam Utton Fine Art.  Happily you can buy both prints and original paintings at her website.  You can also find her work on facebook at Pam Utton.

I loved reading the history of this extraordinary artist, Tim Perkins.  What an inspiration--the story of how he pursued his dream is so inspiring--not to mention his marvelous artwork.  I love the expressiveness he embeds into each of his drawings.  A born storyteller, Tim's imagination has no bounds.  

This skilled artist has worked as a graphic designer since 1980, and in the comic book and children's books industries since 1983.  He has also worked in the theme park industry and in the animation field. It is certainly no surprise he has worked for Marvel UK, 2000AD, Marvel US, DC comics, Defiant, Tekno, Caliber, Fleetway, Newsstand, and Toontastic amongst others.  Tim cites some of his career highlights in comics as Dreamstone, Chopper, Dinoswords, and Dr Who. 

Tim writes, "They say that behind every great man is an even greater woman...Well I may not be a great man, but Margaret my wife is a great woman and my rock. She has always stood by me and backed me to the hilt...sometimes I question her sanity for this...but never have I doubted her support. I wouldn't be here today but for all the help she provides for me in the background, an unsung heroine..."   All I can say is, "Wow!"

To see more of Tim Perkins inspiring artwork, visit Wizard's Keep.  You can also keep up with what he's doing next at Wizard's Keep, The Tim Perkins Blog.

If you'd like to take part in FATuesday Artist Spotlight:

*Blog the art you'd like to share.

*  Don't forget to leave a link on Linky tools.

*  Visit other artists who have left their links.

* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.

(We artists need to encourage each other!)

* Add a link to FATuesday in your blog entry.

Watching Over You

This is one of my very first cloud paintings.  I have often sent this painting out as a gift to those who support Dramatic Difference Ministries.

The picture above is the original photo of a local pilot and airplane, taken near our town's Independence State Airport.   One of the folks to whom I sent this Cloud Painting had it sitting on their piano.  Tiny 3-year old Emma noticed a protective hand in the picture I hadn't seen before.  I took a closer look.  Indeed, there was an angel there, protecting the airplane from harm. 

So I enhanced the picture to reflect the guardian angel seen in the original.  This newly vamped piece of Sky Art is entitled, Watching Over You and hangs in the Starduster Cafe at the airport in Independence, Oregon.  Limited edition, signed prints are for sale!  If you're interested, contact me via email.

Beneath the Mushroom - Guest Heart Thursday

In the forests of our childhood we often thought we saw faeries.  In fact, I'm sure of it.  (grin)  Or, at least I have a GREAT imagination.  This dear little faery loves to sit beneath the umbrella of a large mushroom during springtime rainstorms.

For more heart art, photography and altogether fabulous heart stuff from around the world, visit Clytie at Random Hearts for Guest Heart Thursday.

FATuesday Artist Spotlight #34

I created Featured Art Tuesday Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes every type of medium, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.

  For details on how to join FATuesday Artist Spotlight  
see the bottom of the page.
  I hope you will join in the fun!

I fell in love with Laura's wonderful artwork--in particular these seagulls.  I simply bask in the beauty of these stunning pieces.   She inspires me to continue experimenting with watercolors!

Laura writes of the piece above, "Here's one that I'll definitely have to paint again--and faster: the lines in the water that are supposed to be ripples (!) are too hard-edged, defined. Also, I think I have to intensify the reflected color on the gulls themselves.  It's weird to me that my mind hampers me from painting things it knows to be white in other colors! Perhaps if I did one of those things they recommend to break the mind's hold on your perceptions, like turning the paper upside-down? Or maybe I should just tell my mind to butt out."  Every artist I know, has had similar feelings about their work at one point or another--Laura eloquently puts it into words.

You can see more of this talented artist's work at Laura's Watercolors.

Artist Marie Theron  is also new to me.  I was transfixed by this dear lady's description of a demonstration she did for a museum day in Darling.  What a cool name for a town!  Her work chronicles the West Coast of South Africa.  You can see her love for this area through her unique paintings and exquisitely written stories.

Marie writes, "During the many years that I taught art, I have always tried to have some moments of tension to make my demo interesting. So, dipping my brush into the dirty brown colour of the rocks, I approached the wet completed sky. It took a few moments to squizzle in the seagulls and highlight them with white, but I could sense how people held their breaths as it was so easy to spoil everything at that moment. Long hours on my feet, that I will not repeat soon, but a worthwhile experience nevertheless!"

To see more of Marie's unusual work, visit Artist Marie Theron.

Cristina Valentina, an artist out of Verona Italy is celebrating her blog's one year anniversary.  I am so fortunate to have found this gifted watercolourist.  Her work is delightful to see.  I especially love this painting--I'm partial to bubbles.  I have NO idea how she was able to capture this moment so beautifully.  It is a mystery and inspires me.

Christina writes, "Painting is like looking me in the mirror and seeing who I am: I live to paint, and I paint to live... I love sharing my creative journey with those who come to visit me!"

To see more of Christina's fabulous watercolor paintings, visit A Blob of Color.

I am a great admirer of Patricia Ann Rizzo's beautifully painted artwork.  I first became acquainted with this talented artist from Southern California on facebook.  She has been a source of great encouragement to me.  I have been truly inspired by this lovely woman's work.

She writes, "I'm retired but have been drawing and painting all my life. Now I'm able to pursue my artwork fulltime."  This is to the benefit of everyone who loves this beautiful artist's work!

To see more of Patricia's amazing artwork, visit Watercolors By Patricia.  Happily, Patricia does sell her original pieces here!

This extraordinary photo was taken by Mark Gibson, photojournalist for The Dalles Daily News here in Oregon.  Mark is my younger brother.  I have always loved his patience as he captures the world around him.  He is a great inspiration to me.  You will see what I mean, when you visit his webpage!  He is not only an incredible photographer, but he is a wonder with words.  His stories are fascinating--and I'm not just a biased big sister!

Mark writes of our slow Spring, "Winter is very tiring, especially when it comes back after spring has started and covers up the flowers. Lots of snow and ice, but today its melting and the sun was out some and spring is back again."

To see more of Mark's unique photography and wonderful writing, visit An Ongoing Voyage of Discovery."

If you'd like to take part in FATuesday Artist Spotlight:

*Blog the art you'd like to share.

*  Don't forget to leave a link on Linky tools.

*  Visit other artists who have left their links.

* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.

(We artists need to encourage each other!)

* Add a link to FATuesday in your blog entry.

Amber and Onyx - Sunday Scans

I couldn't resist drawing my talented artist Friend Amber and her delightful sidekick Onyx.  I thought it perfect for Sunday Scans.

Here is Amber with the stuffed version of Onyx.  This talented lady came up with her own design for a real-life Onyx.  SO inspiring!

As you can see, dear Onyx is a bit of a character.  He is always getting into trouble.  He makes me smile.

Happily Amber sells her Onyx dolls along with original ACEO art card at AnimaeGirl.

Al over at "Al's Photography Blog" is hosting  "Sunday Scans".  It is a place for all things scanned.  So pick up your old photo albums, ephemera, postcards, artwork, ANYTHING which can be scanned and join in the fun!

Water Snuggle - Guest Heart Thursday

This is a close up drawing, ACEO size, inspired by a drawing I did for the Fourth of July years ago.  

I loved this pen and ink--I especially loved the personalities of each of her little ones.  Especially the little fellow in the lower left-hand corner.

For more heart art, photography and altogether fabulous heart stuff from around the world, visit Clytie at Random Hearts for Guest Heart Thursday.

FATuesday Artist Spotlight #33

I created Featured Art Tuesday Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes every type of medium, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.

  For details on how to join FATuesday Artist Spotlight  
see the bottom of the page.
  I hope you will join in the fun!

 

I have only recently discovered the wonderfully humorous art of Penelope P. Neal.  I adore the personality with which she endows her whimsical characters.  There is magic in her pencil.  I have been so inspired by her work.  The above sketch, drawn for Illustration Friday, is just a sample of this accomplished artist's charming art.

Penelope writes, "My first thought for “lesson” was to show mama bird pushing her babes out the nest, but then I figured Mama’s got a whole clutch of wee ones and forcing out all her loved chicks unsupervised was just too heart wrenching. So, here’s Mama conducting a group flying “lesson” while clutching three terrified, thrilled and traumatized tweeters."

To see more of Penelope Neal's darling artwork, visit Nothing Worth Stealing.

I fell in love with these hanging plant pots.  Aren't they amazing?  These inspiring pieces are made by Michael McDowell.  He is a clay artist and craftsman from Denver, Colorado.  As you can see, his work is inspiring.  Happily, you can purchase these stunning hanging plant pots through  his Etsy shop, Mud Puppy.

  

Michael writes, "The majority of my work centers around designing ceramic products for urban living, typically involving plant and garden pieces that have a dual purpose being both sculptural and functional while economizing space. My objective is to hand craft beautiful, well made objects for your home."
  

To see more of this wonderful artist's amazing craftsmanship, please visit his gallery at Michael McDowell.

I have been a fan of Paula's beautiful poetry for quite awhile now.  She has a gift of painting pictures with words.  Her thoughts and the way she sees her world inspires me, challenges me and always encourages my heart.  

Paula writes of the heartbreaking loss of someone she deeply loves, "Time continues to pass; there are still moments I find myself unexpectedly afflicted by deep sorrow. Hauntingly, the sting of your loss squeezes at my heart. This most precious organ begins to thicken with an unfathomable ache. Uncontrollably, my eyes burn and begin to water, they always do when memories of you overwhelm. I have begun to practice a remedy of respectfully folding your memory ... wrapping it in layers of emotions, locking the whole of it deep inside, then tucking safely away the key. Because you are forever a part of me."

To read more of Paula's touching poetry visit Tattered Gold. 

 

Bruce Sereta's artwork is new to me.  He is a prolific watercolourist from Las Vegas, Nevada, who's commissioned works are mind boggling.  I was completely inspired by the sheer variety of his art--as well as the beauty and elegance of each and every piece.  

This talented artist enjoys "...Creating Illustrations for advertising, direct mail, p.o.p., collateral, editorial, packaging, and corporate use."

To see more of this eclectic artist's work visit Bruce Sereta Illustration.

        

I LOVE Jean Lurrsen's landscapes, seascapes and abstracts.  These lovely original paintings are influenced by the beauty of Northern California and her experiences in England, South Africa and Zimbabwe.  I adore the way she thinks and writes about her artwork and her world.

Jean writes, "I'm on an English country scene kick. Mainly because I love the quaint little old cottages one finds in the English countryside. They evoke an atmospheric feeling that I like to create in watercolor...  I used windsor green, raw sienna, burnt umber, burnt sienna and black india ink."

To see more of Jean's fabulous paintings, visit The Watercolorist.  Happily, you can also purchase her paintings at Zatista.

If you'd like to take part in FATuesday Artist Spotlight:

*Blog the art you'd like to share.

*  Don't forget to leave a link on Linky tools.

*  Visit other artists who have left their links.

* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.

(We artists need to encourage each other!)

* Add a link to FATuesday in your blog entry.

Big Eyes - Sunday Scans

This ACEO/ATC-sized drawing was inspired by our black cat Snow, or as she came to be called affectionately, Snowbunny.  Fiercely loyal, she mothered our children as though they were her own.  Her eyes shone with love, humor and wisdom.  So often I felt if she'd had the right vocal chords she would have talked.  One could see the intense intelligence in those huge speaking eyes.  She seemed to understand exactly what was said--if she could, she would have replied.  I am sure she would have given me some great advice!  She was very nearly human.  

Al over at "Al's Photography Blog" is hosting a wonderful meme. It's called "Sunday Scans" and is a place for all things scanned.  So pick up your old photo albums, ephemera, postcards, artwork, ANYTHING which can be scanned and join in the fun!

FATuesday Artist Spotlight #32

I created Featured Art Tuesday Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes every type of medium, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.
 
For details on how to join FATuesday Artist Spotlight  
see the bottom of the page.
 

I hope you will join in the fun!

I was thrilled to find Barbara Newton's wonderful artwork--what an inspiration!  I love the personality and humor which springs to life through this artist's brush.  She is not only an incredible artist, but she's a teacher who loves to share her wealth of artistic knowledge through her fascinating new blog, How to Oil Paint.  

Of her blog Barbara writes, "I have been painting and teaching art for a long time and still love it. It is part of my life. I am now on a learning curve to further my artistic abilities via the Internet. With the help of my friend Jo, whom I have known for 32 years (wow is it that long?) we have created a website on how to oil paint. Jo is my very fast-learning student and I guide her through the processes of making a beautiful painting."  I think I'm going to follow along.

To see more of Barbara's enchanting artwork visit Barbara Newton Art Gallery.

 

I love the artwork of Kyla Tomlinson.  She is an incredibly eclectic artist, who's myriad of interesting talents run deep in many directions.  She is a freelance animator, illustrator and concept artist, who's fascinating adventures as an artist, include working as an animator and clean-up artist on Titeuf, produced by Pathe films.  

Kyla writes, “I am passionate, creative and determined. I have a strong drive to push all aspects of my creative abilities and to achieve the best.”

To see more of Kyla's wonderfully eclectic art, visit Art of KT.  

I love my sister Clytie Garretson's art.  For years Sissy told everyone she wasn't an artist--but anyone who knew her, could see it just ooozing from her creative fingertips.   Sissy's amazing photography and charming eclectic art, include altered book art, Graffiti Art, poetry, writing and some pretty amazingly sewing projects.  

Some of Sissy's most touching art can be found on her randomly found hearts blog.  Clytie sees hearts everywhere.  I never cease to be amazed at her incredible ability to find them--or perhaps the truth is, they find her.  Clytie is an ever-present inspiration to me.  Her wisdom, love and prayers have followed me throughout my life. She is a blessing to me.

So why hearts?  Sissy responds, “Because random hearts are everywhere! In nature, in coffee, in piles of trash. In fact, finding hearts is very addictive. The more you find, the more you see. I hope you come to the place where you can't help but notice the hearts of YOUR world!” 

Sissy turned 50 on Monday--I'd love it if you'd drop by her blogs to wish her Happy Birthday!

To see Clytie Garretson's uniquely wonderful Heart Photography visit Random Hearts.  To see her amazing Graffiti Art, visit Random He'Art'Work.  She has a fascinating nature blog at Random Nature.  Her weird and wonderful gallery of startlingly gorgeous art photography can be found at Random Trash.
   

I have been a fan of Christina Cairns artwork for some time now.  Her artwork is truly enchanting.  Christina is an incredibly creative artist, who's crisp talent just pops from everything she puts her hand to.  I especially enjoyed reading how she came up with the Little Book of Nothing, pictured above.  She inspires me to think outside the box.

Christina writes, "The kettle is on, please do come in, up the winding stair and if you're tall, you might have to duck at the top to avoid the ridge beam!"  She is an artist after my own heart.

 

To see more of Christina Cairns' marvelous artwork, visit Christina Maira Cairns Original Art.  You can also read her captivating blog, A Mermaid in the Attic.     

The winter blues have turned to sunny thoughts

As snow and ice recede to lawns of brown

The clearing of debris from flower plots

Brings smiley faces back from dreary frowns

What Mother Nature took is now replaced

With optimistic hope for barren fields

As every bud that dropped is back in place

With promises of flowery, fruitful yields

The heart, just like Fall plantings, must be brave

Some patience is required to survive

But when it finds the sunshine that it craves

It truly is a joy to be alive!

And so it is with every living thing

We winter as we must, and then we SPRING!

~ Shirley Allard

I have always loved poetry.  Featured above is a sensational poet--Shirley Allard.  Her  thoughtful poetry is beautiful.  Her words are like the dance one hears in music, or how the wind sounds when it moves in the air.  

To peruse more of Shirley's wondrous poetry visit Whispers in the Wind. 

If you'd like to take part in FATuesday Artist Spotlight:

*Blog the art you'd like to share.

*  Don't forget to leave a link on Linky tools.

*  Visit other artists who have left their links.

* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.

(We artists need to encourage each other!)

* Add a link to FATuesday in your blog entry.

The Grape Arbor - Guest Heart Thursday

My husband and I will have been married 28 years this May.  I was feeling romantic, so I created this pen and ink drawing last night and finished it up this morning--I had SUCH fun hiding hearts everywhere in the picture, that I lost count.  How many hearts can YOU find?

For more heart art, photography and altogether fabulous heart stuff from around the world, visit Clytie at Random Hearts for Guest Heart Thursday.

FATuesday Artist Spotlight #31

I created Featured Art Tuesday Artist Spotlight, to showcase inspiring Artists and to provide a forum for all Artists to share their work with one another--this includes every type of medium, photography and crafts, including writing and poetry.
 
For details on how to join FATuesday Artist Spotlight  
see the bottom of the page.
 

I hope you will join in the fun!

I only recently became acquainted with the incredible abstract photography of Leovi.  My sister found Leovi first--Clytie liked his work so much, she emailed me about his blog.  I was fascinated and inspired. 

Leovi describes his blog as, "Abstract pictures made ​​in analog and digital media with no tweaks or alterations of any kind. Abstract pictures made ​​in analog and digital media with no Alterations of Any Kind."  

To see Leovi's wonderful abstract photography visit La Foto Grafia Efectista Abstracta.  

I found Paulina Buncic's fabulous candles online.  Her descriptions of these handmade lovelies make my mouth water!  The above, as you can see, is pure art--they are crafted from fragrant wax.  Paulina makes these mini pies and tarts, soy candles, tea lights and party favor mini-baskets in her home.  Her candles are not only affordable, but she says they have a good scent "throw," even when unlit.  This sounds like my kind of home made candle!  

Paulina writes, " I think everyone should be able to enjoy the simple pleasure of a fragrant candle.  I love what I do..."

Happily, you can view and purchase these wonderful candles at Anam Cara Candles.

I have loved Ron DiCianni's artwork for years.  His artwork always tells a story and I LOVE story pictures!  I actually own a signed, numbered print of one of his pieces, entitled Safely Home.  Ron DiCianni's artwork will always be an inspiration to me.  

Of the painting above, Ron DiCianni writes, "In the days of kings and castles, there was an expectation of gallantry, courtesy, respect and loyalty for anyone who sought to marry the king's daughter.  Today, those traits between a man and a woman seem all too far gone.  But if God is our King, then aren't women His daughters?  In 'Daughter of the King,' the knight exudes chivalry while the modern day 'daughter of the king' reminds viewers that every woman should be treated as just that...a princess."

To see more of this incredible artist's work, visit Ron DiCianni Art.  He also has a fascinating video on the mural he painted entitled  The Resurrection.

Six years ago, when I started putting art onto the internet, I went through DA, an online art gallery.  There, I met Bena, also known as Peachfuzz.  She was warm and friendly and so encouraging.  I am grateful to her for her kindness and knowledge.  She has been, and continues to be a great inspiration to me.  I've learned SO much from this dear girl.

 In her description of the character above, this wonderful young artist writes, "Tigerfly is the Autumn creature. Make it show! Don't ever draw him in another season.  He only eats acorns and pumpkins, but also likes colorful leaves and dried flowers.  He is very friendly and affectionate, and very giving..."

  
To see more of this lovely artist's creative work, visit her gallery at PeachFuzz. 

My sweet Friend, artist Amber Day, has invented the cutest character.  He's a nifty black personality-plus cat named Onyx, who gets into all kinds of trouble.  I adore Onyx--what an inspiring little fellow he is!  Amber is an incredibly versatile artist who's talent just boggles the mind.  She even made a stuffed version of Onyx, which I would dearly love to own.  lol

Amber, a devoted stay at home Mom, artist and author writes, "I'm a self taught artist whose artwork has become very collected on eBay (animaegirl).  I've recently started dabbling in novel writing..."

You can see my friend's wonderfully eclectic art on facebook at Amber Day, or visit her blog, Doodles by Amber Day.

If you'd like to take part in FATuesday Artist Spotlight:

*Blog the art you'd like to share.

*  Don't forget to leave a link on Linky tools.

*  Visit other artists who have left their links.

* Leave a comment when you visit each artist's page.

(We artists need to encourage each other!)

* Add a link to FATuesday in your blog entry.

May Flower Heart, ACEO - Random Challenge

Our Mission, through Random Challenges, was to make an ACEO/ATC using whatever art medium I choose--with the following theme:  May Flowers!

This is a piece of computer art I was experimenting with--using the filters I found in Photoshop.  I just love this picture--I was able to catch the beautiful color of the May Flower, along with having a lot of fun experimenting with a new art medium.

If you'd like to take part in this Random Challenge, visit SissyCea, SissyDea and SissyBea at Random Challenges!