In The Zone

 In The Zone

12x15, soft pastel

This piece has been brewing in my head for awhile. Finally, there was time in 2020 to give it it's due. I know what it's like to be "in the zone". It happens every time I paint. You lose all sense of time and place because you are completely focused on the creative task at hand. I knew that was the case for this gentleman too. I was drawn to his music as well as his state of mind.

He was playing a beautiful classical guitar piece at the Farmer's Market a couple years back. I love classical guitar music....and, I especially loved his "TIP" bucket.  I can still remember the scene...strong light was pouring over him from the alleyway, tons of people were chatting at nearby restaurants, and there was the fragrant smell of fresh breads and intoxicating scents of fresh cut flower. In all the cacophony, he didn't seem to notice as he focused on the gentle music flowing from his guitar. Simply put, he was "In The Zone".

The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club

12x12, soft pastel

Every two years pastel artists from around the world gather in Albuquerque, NM at the International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS).  The first year I attended, in 2017, I snapped a photo of these ladies catching up at breakfast. They seemed so excited for the upcoming events (as was I). A perfect time to reconnecting with old friends and make new ones.  What a delightful, colorful group of artists!

Watching Over Her

Watching Over Her

12x12, soft pastel

Every autumn there is a heritage festival in Odessa, Washington call Deutschesfest.  In addition to great food and music there are a number of events planned for children and adults.  My favorite are the children's chalk drawing contest (no surprise there) and the tricycle races.  This painting was based on a photo I took ten years ago of my granddaughter and a classmate at the starting line as they take out down Main Street.  The funny part of this piece is how her classmate Pilot is "Watching Over Her"...seeming to be more concerned for her, than winning the race.  We now realize that every photo we have of these two is the same...side by side throughout the years.  So it's no surprise that they are now high school sweethearts.  And yes, he's still "Watching Over Her".

Girl On Fire

Girl On Fire

9x12, soft pastel

This morning I had beautiful music playing from an old CD called "Siesta"..relaxing guitar music filled the studio.  So, it was natural to select this subject for my painting.   A young girl dancing with all the attitude, poise and vitality of a professional.  I had so much fun painting her I was dancing too.  The lighting in the scene was remarkable...she actually glowed as though her skin was on fire.  Oh, to be young again!!!