Got outside this afternoon and joined some other artists at Yantacaw Park in Montclair. We were supposed to gather earlier this spring, but like most things- Covid threw a wrench in those plans. sigh! There were only six of us but it was nice to paint again. Even if it was while wearing a mask.
a little break...
Took a few hours to meet up with a friend yesterday and paint. A beautiful garden, combined with the sounds of birds and scampering chipmunks (oh my god so cute!) and some much needed laughs. I’ve been working so much these past few months between book projects, commissions and teaching remotely. I often work through weekends to catch up so it was a nice little escape. My day got a little longer as a result as I made up the time catching up on emails, but it was soooo nice. :)
Here are some little studies I did. We kept moving about to work on different plants and flowers. It was nice just to paint for fun.
Trees, trees and more trees!
I’ve been painting and sketching on the go lately. Currently obsessed with trees! Can’t stop looking at them on my walks. Some of the trees here in Montclair are over 100 years old. The weather here has finally warmed and I have really enjoyed getting outside and breathing the fresh air. Pollution is way down due to so many businesses shut down. Car emissions down due to lack of commuters. So in that aspect, it’s great. I am so sooooo grateful that I have had this book project throughout all this. It has kept me focused and I work long days, which I much prefer to sitting around! This book will be coming out next year now—March as listed on Amazon. I hope everyone is safe and in good health.
Summer lovin'-part one
Summer rocks! I practically live outside. Ask the squirrels! I've been enjoying plein air painting in the gardens in my town, going to the pool, writing, reading lots of books, beaching it, outdoor concerts and laughing with my friends. ( they rock too! ) Hope all of you are enjoying your summer as well!!!
slow down and look
One of the most beautiful treasures in Montclair is the Avis Campbell Gardens. I go there all year long and there is always something different blooming each season (except winter). It's tucked away and I love to see when people first stumble upon it. Absolutely gorgeous. I went Friday with my watercolor class and it was so nice to paint outside with nothing but chirping birds and the sound of the water fountain babbling away...Sure beats sitting in front of my computer!
My parents visited this past week so I spent a lot of time walking in the park with my dad each morning. From turtles, geese, cardinals, ducks and egrets to every assortment of dog I was in critter heaven. And then there was just the sheer beauty of spring unfolding everywhere.
