942 Time and Time Again

Happy New Year!  It's been quite awhile since I posted a painting, but rest assured I have been painting and even trying some new things.  This painting seemed to be on the easel forever, but I am happy with the result, especially the composition of many props, some of them personal and meaningful. 

My holidays were busy with family visits and the usual baking, cooking and decorating.  I am grateful for and happy with this rather simple recipe for life and happiness.  As I look back on 2019, I would be less than honest if I said it was a perfect year, artistically.  I am still struggling with painting in our fairly new home in a much smaller studio space.  It seems that a move can throw one's artistic mojo off, yes it's a real "thing," I've been told.  I have taken a few classes at the highly esteemed Palette and Chisel, and am considering joining the Plein Air Chicago Painters in the spring.  It would be a good way for me to meet other artists and to get to know the city better.  Although I've been on several plein air painting trips with my Milwaukee Art Lady friends, none have been in an urban setting.  This will be a new challenge and adventure for me.

Very sadly for me and many other artists, patrons and neighborhood folks was the Fall closing of The Leigh Gallery in Lakeview.  The owner of the gallery, Jean Leigh retired to pursue her writing, eventually in beautiful Door County. She and her sidekick Joe were so wonderful to work with and worked so darn hard for me and the other artists she represented.  I dearly love both of them.   They had such a gift for making a person feel like she was the only person in the world that mattered.  When I would walk in the door I was always greeted with enthusiasm, affection, encouragement and lots of laughs.  Boy, do I miss them.

I am happy to report I was asked to return to exhibit my work for my sixth season at The Edgewood Orchard Galleries in Fish Creek Door County, Wisconsin.  The Gallery just celebrated their 50th anniversary.  I am thrilled to be a part of this gorgeous gallery in very prestigious artistic company, though still a freshman with just five years under my belt.

I am optimistic for the future, and hope you are too.  Our world is very complicated right now, but there is so much to be thankful for if we are open to it.  I wish all of you a healthy and healthy 2020, filled with many blessings, and hopefully the gift of art.

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