Lost Painting of Northwest Historical Artist Found

When my sweet Sis Clytie called to say she had found an original painting by our Great Aunt Martina, I was in awe.  The above painting by noted Northwest artist Martina Gangle Curl was found in a box of our Grandmother's papers--which would have been destroyed that very day.  Grammie was Martina's younger sister. 

Great Aunt Martina was an amazing lady.  In 1931, after years of following the harvest picking crops with her family, working as an art teacher and then managing a boarding house, she enrolled at the Portland Art Museum School in Portland, Oregon.  There she studied under legendary painter and art instructor Harry Wentz.  This lost painting has the date 1932 inscribed on the back, around the time Aunt Martina was exhibiting artwork at the Portland museum between 1932 and 1933.

You can see Aunt Martina's distinctive artistic style in the piece above, entitled Prune Picker.  Fascinated by migrant labor families and shipyard workers, she had a special love for the common man. 

It has been said Aunt Martina's attention to women and children conveyed a desire to “mother” humanity.  This is illustrated by one of my all-time favorites--the painting above entitled Clinic which was rediscovered at the Oregon State Hospital in the late 1990's. 

Through her artwork, Aunt Martina succeeded in dramatizing the beauty and aesthetic diversity to be found in the everyday settings of people living throughout the Pacific Northwest in those hard years.
 
I wish I would have known she was an artist--I would love to have talked with her about her life and how she saw the world--about what it was like growing up in those times.  She was not only a gifted artist, but was a wonderful person who deeply loved her family.   

I wish I could tell her how proud I am to be her great niece and how much I treasure those moments when she would lean over my drawings with a smile and an encouraging word. 

You can find restrikes of fourteen works of art by Aunt Martina for sale, at The Pathways Collection.  To read more about Martina Gangle Curl's fascinating life, visit The Oregon Encyclopedia and the Oregon Cultural Heritage Commission.  

Puss N' Bootz - Guest Heart Thursday

Here is our darling Bootz.  We do miss her very much--I couldn't resist drawing her wearing actual Boots.  Of course, there are hidden hearts everywhere--can you find them?  I wonder how many hearts there are--I didn't count 'em!  lol

I never thought we'd find another cat with such personality, vim and vigor, but we have--and perhaps Bootz sent him our way.

Here he is, Snoopy Sunshine--or Snooperz for short.  We called him Snoopy because he snoops into everything.  Though counter tops and tables are off limits!  lol  Anything we do seems to fascinate him.

Our boy is six months old and most likely a Main Coon.  For six months old he is a BIG boy already!  We brought him to our home Saturday--and already it seems as though he has been a part of our little family for months.  I'm sure I'll be blogging about his antics for years to come.

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

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #25

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT 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 FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight  see the bottom of the page.

I hope you will join in the fun!

I have been a fan of Van Heist for years.  His drawings are creative and inspiring--his gifting is almost miraculous.  But this young artist is not only tremendously talented, he is a thoughtful, courageous person, who's insights bear perusal.  It is my privilege to introduce you to his inspiring artwork.

Of his work as an artist and cartoonist, VanHeist writes, "It's fun work, though any job has its frustrations, and comics often come saddled with the immediate frustration of knowing it's an uphill battle towards sustaining yourself through the long hours of work, both mentally and monetarily." 

To see more of VanHeist's wonderful artwork, visit VanHeist.

I have only recently become acquainted with Ruthie Redden's whimsical artwork.  The graceful detail she puts into her drawings amazes my eyes.  When I see her work, I am inspired.  She is not only a gifted artist, but is a tremendous photographer.

Ruthie writes, "As a pictorial story teller, I spend my time striving to create work that makes my heart sing. My hope is that the viewer may experience even a little of the pleasure from my work as i felt when creating it."  Indeed, to see her artwork is to feel a song.

Happily, Ruthie sells her artwork at her Etsy Shop, Mythweaver.  You can see her intricate art at Ruthie Reddon Artworks and view her wonderful photography at Precious Things.

I first met Dave Dube through Postcard Friendship Friday and photographer Abraham Lincoln.   Dave gathers old paperwork of every kind, then uses the paper to draw the most amazing pieces.  What a creative artist!  The spectacular drawing above is a recent entry in the Western Heritage Art Show.  This dear artist is not just only incredible artist, he is a genuinely lovely person.  You will love getting to know him and his work.

Dave writes, "I'm a sixty-two year old artist with a taste for history and the printed word. I've been putting my art on envelopes for well over fifty years, and still continue to do that either on a whim or of necessity. I consider Thank You cards a necessity!"

To see more of Dave's inspiring work, visit Old Paper Art.

Only a few days ago, my talented friend Tammie Lee introduced me to Kathy Hare's wonderful illustrations.  The piece above, entitled "Island" deeply touched my heart and filled my eyes.  This fills my heart, too.

Of this piece, Kathy writes, "My Island Print for sale on Etsy all proceeds to the British Red Cross to help the victims of the Japanese Earthquake and Tsunami." I find this piece very moving--my eyes fill with tears every time I look at it.

To see more of this precious artist's work, visit Moon Gazing Hare.  You can find this beautiful island piece along with others for sale on Etsy at Kathy Hare's shop.

I met Skylar McCready through some artist friends on Facebook.  What a wonderful artist she is--she fills her world with wit, whimsey and color.  She has an almost magical command of color and space.  When I see her work, I am instantly drawn to it.  What a fanciful artist she is!

Of herself, Skylar says, "I'm a "fabulous" nurse. Ask ANY of my residents! Enjoying being single... (until Mr. Right comes along that is).  I love cats and use my beloved Hyacinth as muse for many of my paintings. :D" 

Happily Skylar's artwork is available not only to peruse, but to purchase, on her webpage, Art by SkyM.

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

*Blog the art you'd like to share.

*  Don't forget to leave a link to your art here 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!)

* Put a link to FAT Tuesday in your blog entry.

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #24

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT 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 FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight  see the bottom of the page.

I hope you will join in the fun!

 

I have been a big fan of Darlene Pringle for some time now.  Her paintings are incredibly lovely and her work with clay makes me smile.  Darlene is a sunny person who's outlook is reflected in everything she creates.  This multi-talented artist has touched my heart on more than one occasion.  She is a good friend.

Darlene writes, "I am a self taught mixed media artist playing with acrylics, clay, dolls, I feel mixed media free's me to enjoy the creative process. I enjoy music, piano, traveling, theatre, antiques, floral gardening. I am a writer/Contributor for Christian Spotlight.net, an International Movie Review site."

To see more of Darlene's precious artwork, visit A Dancing Mango.  Happily, she sells her work too--you can peruse these wonderful pieces on Etsy at A Dancing Mango.

Joanna is another of my favorite artists.  I have been a follower of this wonderful artist from Germany for years.  It is my privilege to introduce her art to you!  She is a gifted illustrator who's imagination knows  no bounds.  Her artwork fills my eyes.

One of these days I will purchase a piece of her artwork.  She writes, "I am currently working on some Easter designs for this year, including ACEO's that will be put up at eBay in time for Easter. Also planning on selling a few limited edition ACEO prints at my Etsy shop soon, so keep an eye open! Just have to choose which one to start putting up first. I'm open for suggestions."

 To see more of Joanne's inspiring artwork, visit JBrommers.  You can also buy Joanne's beautiful artwork from her Etsy shop at Joanne Bromley Art.

Isn't this box just the cutest thing?  Carolee has a wonderfully unique style.  Her artwork is always beautifully engaging.  She is a dear lady, who's remarkable sense of humor makes the world a better place. 

Carolee writes, "...what a blessing it is to connect with like minded individuals all over the world. For those of us who work at home, and spend most of our days in solitude, that connection can be like finding water in the desert - and never more than when we're facing challenges or feeling a bit disconnected."

To see more of Carolee's delightfully whimsical world, visit King of Mice Studios.  

Jillian Crider is new to me.  I found this Australian born artist, through some artists I know from facebook.  What an inspiration Jillian is!  I love the way she uses color and light in her lovely watercolor paintings.  I am inspired by the emotion she infuses into her artwork--how she accomplishes this is a mystery to me.  The piece pictured above is an ACEO--that means it is tiny--only 2.5x3.5 inches! 

She writes, "...I don't know re painting small. I paint big, too. In a way I don't find it different. I also paint way smaller. These (more recent pieces) were done with no magnification, no masking. ACEOs are good that way - just paint, no extras needed. I guess I have a steady hand..." 

To see more of Jillian's fabulous artwork, visit Art of Jillian Crider.  

I met Deann through my sister Clytie.  It is hard to believe how time has flown, but we've known one another for over a year now!  I have watched Deann's digital artwork blossom.  She is a true master at her craft--I know what it takes to be able to do what she does with digital art.   She is inspiring, warm and one of the kindest individuals I have had the pleasure of knowing.  She is my adopted sister.  I love her and you will too.

Deann writes of her artwork above, "What is more illusive then your reflection in a mirror...does anyone really know what they look like.  The longer you stare at your own image in a mirror the more distorted and unreal it becomes...a combination of reflected light and self image or self loathing as the case may be...a 3D subject projected on a two dimensional surface. Your own face in a looking glass the ultimate illusion."  What a wise girl she is!

To see more of Deann's marvelous and sometimes crazy artwork, visit The Whimsey Asylum.  

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

*Blog the art you'd like to share.

*  Don't forget to leave a link to your art here 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!)

* Put a link to FAT Tuesday in your blog entry.

Cleopatra and Mark Antony - Guest Heart Thursday

One of the greatest love stories of all time, is that of Mark Antony and Cleopatra.  This drawing was inspired by a wonderful photo of my nephew and his dearest love.  I thought this drawing perfect for Guest Heart Thursday!  Of course, there are hidden hearts everywhere--how many 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.

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #23

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT 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.  
I hope you will join in the fun!

The artist who created this exquisite piece is known as "White."  She lives in Germany and is new to me.  I was so struck by the beauty and realistic feel of her work.  There's something whimsical, yet tremendously powerful about her drawings which touches me deeply.

I usually do not feature more than one piece of artwork by a featured artist--today is one of those rare occasions I decided to do things differently.

This wonderful artist has had a recent set back.  Her computer is on the fritz and she's saving money to either fix it, or to buy a new one.  She's also suffered a bad injury to her arm, which makes it difficult for her to draw at times.  I could not imagine not being able to draw!!!  Please visit this dear lady to encourage her!  Her work is spectacular and leaves me in awe.  I am so inspired by her drawings!

Happily, White's incredible artwork is for sale, she even does commissions!  You can find this artist's inspiring work at White Spirit Wolf Photography and at her DA account, White Spirit Wolf.

I have featured Peggy Gatto's beautiful artwork before.  This morning I was so taken by this wonderful painting of her back yard!  Isn't this lovely?

Peggy writes, "Art has become for me "therapy". I can celebrate happy occasions or work through sad or difficult times by creating art. I love creating special art for others. I often use old family pictures in my pieces and feel good about giving them birth again. I love to laugh,am very sentimental, and cry more happy tears than sad ones. Loyalty, honesty, and sharing good things with others is important to me. I enjoy seeing all the new art of artists friends and am learning something new every day! Laughing makes better wrinkles on your face!"

To see more of this eclectic artist's wonderfully creative pieces, visit Peggy’s Mixed Up Art. 

I came across Mayya's photography blog totally by accident.  I was so taken by the beautifully composed photos I found there.  I know you will be too--I especially loved the soft look of this cactus.  

She writes, "My name is Mayya and I've been interested in photography since I was 10 years old! Now, 12 years later I've finally gotten myself a DSLR and am learning anything I can about digital photography!"

To see more of this unusual photographer, visit Mayya Medved Photography.

Up until recently, I'd never heard of Needle Felting.  I still am not sure how Katey created these utterly darling lambs.  They are SO CUTE!  She is also a painter--her artwork is SO inspiring.  There is something truly unique and special about her artwork!

Katey writes, "…'art' is part of me... I am rooted in a family of craftsmen & carpenters. I grew up watching cars getting fixed, home improvement projects, and where every manner of project always seemed to be in queue. "Creating" is like breathing. The short of it is that I was encouraged by those around me - other people noticed "something" about me long before I ever did. I just did it. I am convinced that all we do in life is an act of worship. How we worship and Whom is the heart of the matter."

You can find more pictures of these darling little sheep on Katey's facebook account, Blue Eyed Duck Studies and even more of her creative artwork on her blog at Blue Eyed Duck Studios. 

I have been a big fan of Tammie Lee for quite some time now.  Her photography has a quality about it I can hardly put into words.  Her poetry is exquisite, as are her pictures.  She is an accomplished artist with a special style which fills my eyes. Tammie is also one of the loveliest persons I've had the pleasure of getting to know.  You will love her, too.

Tammie writes, "Capturing the beauty of our natural world with photography is a great passion for me, as well as my business; Spirithelpers... It is my attempt to capture a spirit that uplifts and ignites the majesty in our hearts."

You can find Tammie Lee's wonderful photography at Spirit Helpers and her thoughtful artwork at Beauty Flows.  She also sells her lovely artworks and photography at her webstore, Spirithelpers. 

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

*Upload what you want to share with other artists, onto your blog.

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

*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.

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

(We artists need to encourage each other!)

* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.

Heart Hug - Guest Heart Thursday

This is my niece.  She is the light of my eyes--and she LOVED this picture of herself hugging the little smiling heart.  I am SO blessed to see the world through the eyes of a three-year-old!

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

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #22

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT 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.  
I hope you will join in the fun!

Steve Abbott is new to me.  I've always loved still life paintings--This artist's work is wonderful--a true inspiration.  Located in Calera, Alabama, in the United states, Steve is a third generation artist!  I especially loved the Apples of Gold in a Bowl of silver above.  'Tis exactly as I pictured it.

This gracious artist writes, "I am drawn to figurative work and still lifes.  I love creating beauty in my art and hope to do so the remainder of my years!  I hope you enjoy my work. Please tell me what you think. All painters are a work in progress! What do you like? How can I improve?"

To see more marvelous still life paintings, visit Steve Abbot Fine Art. 

 Ann Ranlett's portraits of animals are wonderful.  Her use of color is unexpected and inspiring.  Her whimsical portrayals capture the essence of each animal's unique personality.  She uses a variety of mediums to create her charming pieces.  She describes an intense interest in nature, which, along with her biological/scientific background, give her pieces a special realistic feel.

Ann writes, "...I'm fascinated by the textures and colors found in nature..  I'm really in my element when working with ink on scratch board; it’s quite forgiving and I like the challenge of creating intricate detail and texture with black, white and shades of grey. I also enjoy working in graphite pencil for the same reasons.  When I need a break from monochrome work, I switch to watercolor, although I'm likely to add a little pen & ink or color pencil to my paintings. In 2005, I started working with watercolor on Yupo, a synthetic paper. I'd been wanting to try something different and my "Paintings with Petzazz" pieces are the result. They're wildly colored and have quite a bit less detail, but they're still recognizable as a particular breed or pet."

To see more of Ann's inspiring work visit her gallery at Ann Ranlett.

Ann  Gates Fiser is a gifted artist with many outlets--including illustrating children's books and  set design!  Over the past nine seasons, this inspiring artist has designed and painted theatrical sets for Redmond Second Story Repertory Theater, Redmond, WA.   Godspell, Jacques Brel Is Alive and Living in Paris, The Importance of Being Ernest, Blithe Spirit, The Nightingale, The Frog Prince, and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, are just a few of the plays for which she has painted sets.   

Among her many accomplishments, Ann's murals have been featured in the Seattle Street of Dreams, Seattle Symphony Houses, The Jr. League of Tacoma's Decorators' Show House & Garden Tour, Tableau Magazine, Pacific Northwest Magazine and in various newspaper articles. In the first half of 2007, this talented lady painted four murals for The Children's Museum, Seattle.

She writes, "In all the things that I do, the basic component is a curiosity for learning and a quest for creative expression. My joy is creating murals and seeing the excitement and happiness on a client’s face when they see the transformation of their personal space. I love to encourage creativity in others, helping them to find that "inner artist" that lives inside all of us. It’s my intention with my work to create a nurturing environment for my clients. I also love illustrating children’s books, composing music and writing songs."  

To see more of this eclectic artist's work, visit Fisor Art Studio. 

Has anyone out there heard of Scrapling before?  The above piece, by Gez, is a Scrapling!  A scrapling is something created with leftover art and craft scraps!  I had never heard of Scrapling before visiting Gez's wonderful Blog.  I felt so inspired after visiting there.

This enthusiastic, joyously talented artist--obviously a teacher at heart--has much to share.  To visit her cheery, inspiring blog, visit Gezzyb's Jots.

I fell in love with Jeanie Callaghan's matchboxes.  Each exquisitely decorated matchbox drawer has lovely surprises hidden inside.  I felt so inspired by the beauty of these tiny pieces of art. 

Jeanie describes her lovely creation.  "The box is covered with brayered paper - which I love to use every chance I get!  The heart is raised up a bit from the matchbox.  I love these artificial flowers that I purchased at Cappels in Cincinnati during one of my visits home.  They remind me of the crepe paper flowers that my grandmother used to make..."

To see more of Jeanie Callaghan's gorgeous work, visit  All My Artist Trading Cards. 

* Upload what you want to share onto your blog.

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

*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.

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

(We artists need to encourage each other!)

* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.

Little Red Riding Hood - Guest Heart Thursday

Here she is, Little Red Riding Hood!  Her basket of food is sitting on the ground behind her, just in case you are wondering!  This pen and ink was inspired by my nieces, darling Malaya and Sweet Peyton.

I have hidden a bunch of hearts in this drawing!  Can you find them all?!

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

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #21

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT 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.  
I hope you will join in the fun!

I have only recently became acquainted with Anna's beautiful artwork.  The whimsical quality of her drawings delights my  heart and fills my eyes.  The kitty pictured above is especially sweet.

Anna writes, "I have been painting all my life since I remember me. When I was a child, I read a book where story hero Karandash painted pictures, which become alive as soon as they had been finished. I thought if I will learn to paint really good, my pictures will become alive some day too. This child dream still lives deeply in my heart. I know it will never happen, but I feel addicted to magic of painting and drawing, because it makes our life so emotional and colorful."  I can identify with Anna--when I was a little girl I would dream the same kinds of dreams. 

To see more of Anna's art, visit Art by Anna.

I first became acquainted with Bob through my friend Amber.  He is a truly amazing artist and a nice guy, too.  Most of his unique pieces are ACEOs.  The incredible detail he puts into his "Bone Work" art is stunning.  Happily, you can find his artwork for sale on Ebay at b.l.ink!  I have seen his work in real life--it is beautifully made. 

Bob writes, "...My life has been good for the most part.  I draw, I live, I work, I raise my son as best I can, and hope that is good enough for all things to turn out well in the end."

To see more of Bob's wonderful bone art stylings visit Bone Work by Bob.

Julia Christie is a graphic artist, who's work woos the eye.  The exquisite detailing in her artwork is lovely.  I like her stories and I have enjoyed reading the step-by-step descriptions of her own creative process.  She is a dear lady who's work is truly marvelous.

Julia writes, "I live on the west coast of Washington State on an island. The San Juan Islands are my neighbors and yes, I do know how lucky I am. I am fortunate to have fallen in love with the most wonderful man in the world...For some reason, he continues to fancy me too. I am a mother first and foremost and it is such an incredible privilege to guide my little ones as they learn how to navigate through this world. Mothering can consume me ~ I'm trying to make a little room for me again tho, so I'm working on writing my first novel. I've also rediscovered the artistic side of myself and am having a blast finding artistic inspiration everywhere!"   Thank YOU for inspiring us, dear Julia!

 To see more of Julia's fascinating work, visit Serendipity - A Mother's Tale.

I have been a big fan of Al's for a long time, now.  He has a way of seeing our world which bewitches the  eyes.  His work is truly breath-taking!  I count it a privilege to know this talented photographer.  He has been and continues to be an inspiration to me.

Al writes, "Born in London, I've lived in The Netherlands, New York, and Washington DC. Now I've settled down in Colorado and love taking pictures. Unless otherwise stated, all pictures are taken by me with my Nikon D40X. I do almost no photo editing - occasionally I will crop or remove a dust spot, but that's all. What comes out of the camera is what you see here."

To see more wonderful photography, visit Al's Photography Blog.

I met Prospero through my sister Clytie.  I have been a big fan for quite some time.  This artist philosopher often ties his photography to words and phrases in such a way, I find myself fascinated to find the link between the two.  His artistic photography is startlingly beautiful, wonderfully thought-provoking.  I want to add that his lovely assistant Angelina, is especially adorable. 

To see more visit Prospero at the Serendipitous Garden.

* Upload what you want to share onto your blog.

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

*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.

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

(We artists need to encourage each other!)

* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.

The Rose

This is an ACEO, 3.5 x 2.5 inches.  Over the past day or so, I've been experimenting with Prismacolor pencils on black art paper.  This is the last of four experimental ACEOs.  I love roses--I especially love the way this one turned out!   I thought this Rose would be perfect for Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentines Day Everyone!

FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight #20

I created Featured Art Tuesday (FAT 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.  
I hope you will join in the fun!

I have been a big fan of James Browne's artwork for several years.  His work is ever inspiring to me--I  LOVE his unique style and the whimsical way in which he views his world.  As he states, he paints for those who remember what it is like to walk in the heart space of a child.  

James writes, “The older I have become and as my artwork matures the more my heart yearns to create. This yearning becomes a passion and my true emotions flow out of me as I paint. When you create, I believe you have to open yourself up and reach deep within to really get a feel for what you're all about and what you hope to say or express in your painting. Then everything you paint becomes real to you and for the viewer anything is possible. I paint for just that reason. It is a wonderful feeling to share my imagination and emotions with people through my paintings.” 

To see more of James Browne's whimsical artwork, visit Everland.

I have only recently discovered the wonderful artwork of Laurie J. Grove.  The little Jack Russell terrier above is an example of the exquisite detail found in her art.  Her cats are also beautiful.  Laurie is a natural born artist who has the gift of drawing the essence of her subjects into the pieces she creates--each one is delightfully inspiring.  Laurie attended the University of Texas in Austin and Texas Tech University.  There she studied photography, drawing and sculpture.  Her artwork can be found in all 50 states and in over 37 countries.  It is a privilege to know this lovely lady.

Laurie writes, "I have always loved the arts and can remember being pretty serious working with my pastels and charcoals before age 10..."

To see more of Laurie's fabulous art visit Art by L. J. Grove.   
 

I am also featuring my talented sister Clytie, who's artwork totally inspires me and fills my eyes.  I love the art she creates from "genuine" graffiti, trash and recycled treasures.  Each of her amazing works of art, are one of a kind and absolutely beautiful.  I am in awe of her imagination and creativity.  Sissy is a HUGE inspiration to me. 

Clytie writes about the source of the graffiti she uses in many of her artistic creations.   "I watched as the abandoned mega-church across the street became a magnet for taggers and graffiti artists. Many works of art were made on walls backed with drywall. Subsequent vandals kicked in these walls, leaving pieces of graffiti scattered around. I picked these up, removed the drywall backing, and turned them into art. The mega-church is now cleaned out - no more graffiti. But I have my stash!!!"

To see more of Clytie's incredible graffiti art, visit Random He'Art'Work.

It is only recently I became acquainted with Georgina Bedwell and Midnight the Wonder Cat.  What a delightful blog--depicting the daily blog of a fictitious cat--but as she says, don't tell him, he doesn't know.  I fell in love this blog.  With the recent loss of our own dear Bootz--the adventures of Midnight (from a cat's view), made me laugh and inspired my heart.  Thank you Georgina!

Georgina writes of herself, “I am a daughter, a friend, a girlfriend, a grand-daughter an artist, an aspiring writer, a wise cracker, a dreamer, and a thinker who above all else wants to create a beautiful life.”

To see more of Georgina Bedwell's engaging art, visit Midnight's Blog.

I LOVE the artwork of Elizabeth W. Sever.  Her birds are especially darling.  The detail of her work is astounding, as is the warm feel she infuses into each piece.  She makes me smile--the way she sees the world is wonderful and the sometimes hidden humor in her pieces is inspiring.

Elizabeth writes, “I love birds. They remind me of people I have met..” 

To see more of Elizabeth's fabulous artwork, visit Elizabeth W. Seaver Fine Art.

 If you would like to take part in FAT Tuesday Artist Spotlight, 

these are the guidelines:

* Upload what you want to share onto your blog.

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

*  Be sure to visit other artists who have left their link.

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

(We artists need to encourage each other!)

* Be sure to leave a link to FAT Tuesday on your blog page.

Our Sweet Friend Bootz The Cat

This is our sweet little Friend Bootz The Cat.  Boots flew away from this earth ten days ago.  She left a giant hole behind.  How we miss the funny things she did.

She had claimed the left side of my desk as her own.  If I happened to leave something I was working on in HER space--she'd push whatever it was off the desk--into the garbage, then sit back on her haunches, staring down as though to say--well, that's where THAT belongs.  She would often jump onto my desk.  She would start her flying leap from across the room.  The impetus of impact would send everything except Bootz, onto the floor. I think she liked the noise it made--and the fuss I made.  lol  She was so cute I could only laugh at her.

She would follow my husband and I around the house, interested in everything we did.  When I would sit at the kitchen table to draw or read, Bootz would hide under my skirt, sitting on my toes--snagging anyone who passed by, along with strings, feathers--whatever might dangle into her reach.  She knew how to open doors and loved to watch the birds from my husband's office window.  She slept on Alan's lap in the evenings and spent her night times cuddled between the two of us.

She rarely spoke, but when she did--we knew something was up.  She needed additional water in her dish, or wanted more food.  She disdained  people food of any kind, preferring her science diet food. 

The day before she left us, she snuggled more than she had ever before.  She stayed as close to each of us as she could.  She even would lay her head on my arm as I worked on my computer.

This picture was completed some days ago--I wanted to share her happy face with you.