MARTHA WAKEFIELD

SHEAR DANCE

2012-02-02T08:06:00.000-08:00

I will be writing an article shortly on my scissor paintings, so I took my large shears to the studio yesterday. I did several sketches and photographs for potential material. Reviewing the images on the computer last night this photo made an impression. The image would be correctly viewed in a portrait layout as the scissor is actually hanging by a thumbtack on the wall. But in this landscape layout I like the sense of dance this tool conveys.

SCISSOR

2012-01-31T07:31:00.000-08:00

Last week I rushed back from Maine to get this painting framed. It only took cutting three 6-ply mats to get one perfect for this work. Scissor was recently juried into the WBUR art auction by Larry Powers of Powers Gallery. I am very excited to be part of this event as I am a big fan of WBUR and public radio.

This work is a watercolor on a full sheet of 300 lb cold press watercolor paper. Objects from our personal history can show up in interesting ways in our paintings. This series I painted in 2008 and links me to my past profession - the fashion industry where scissors are a prime tool. You can see more of my scissors paintings on my website: http://www.marthawakefield.com/.

SCRATCHING THE SURFACE

2012-01-23T10:49:00.000-08:00

watercolor & india ink
30 x 22

Shift # 12, my painting above, I am happy to report, was recently accepted in the new show Scratching the Surface at the Cambridge Art Association. This is part of my Slip series I have been working on all last year. The show was juried by Joseph Carroll of Carroll and Sons Gallery. It runs from January 20th to February 24th with a reception on Friday, February 3rd, from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. Along with this good news was seeing several of my friends's works also accepted into this show.

If you are interested in seeing more of my Slip Series - they can be viewed on my website: marthawakefield.com

FREEZE

2012-01-15T11:21:00.000-08:00

Our January here in the Northeast lacks the crucial snow covering. Yet the cold temperatures over the weekend are creating some fascinating layers and textures on small ponds that normally would be hidden under a winter's white blanket. On our Saturday walk in the Audubon's Habitat here are some luscious patterns and colors of nature's seedlings and grasses stilled by the freezing water.

ROADSIDE IMPRESSIONS 2

2012-01-13T05:30:00.000-08:00

Here is another painting of my roadside impression. The second canvas of three I have been playing with this week. This painting too was taken with my digital camera so the colors are not quite accurate. Acrylic on canvas 14 x 20.

ROADSIDE IMPRESSIONS

2012-01-12T16:31:00.000-08:00

On the road this past weekend to Vermont the winter landscapes made a deep impression. When one is a passenger one has the opportunity to see that world on the side of the road passed by at 65 plus miles per hour. The landscape, even devoid of snow and the water turning from rich blues to opague greys as the temperature drops, is still quite colorful. So with these fleeting images I decided to play this week in the studio. I am working on three paintings - acrylic on canvas about 14 x 20. The colors are not correct in these images as I took them with my little digital camera under bad lighting. But one can get the idea or rather impression.

NEW YEAR NEW WORK

2012-01-04T16:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

I am glad the festive holidays have past and the studio beckons. Getting back to work feels good. As does having my website updated before the end of 2011. This goal was accomplished with the help of my photographer-in-residence (also known as my husband, Pip Shepley) and with web mistress and mixed media artist Jeanne Williamson.

My Slip Series that I have been working on for most of the past year is now available at http://www.marthawakefield.com/. Currently there are three categories with my first being acrylic on canvas. This is followed by works on paper - a series of 24 mostly large watercolors which continue to explore the concept of a spiritual presence wearing yet disappearing within such sheerness. New are my small paintings in acrylic on handmade paper mounted on canvas. These were well received at my 2 day show in Peterborough, NH in early December. This group is called Chemise. I am not sure if I have exhausted this intimate garment yet - only days in the studio will tell. But I am very happy to be there in this new year.

Special thanks always to Pip Shepley and Jeanne Williamson

DECEMBER 25

2011-12-24T18:03:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a magical day on this Christmas!

PLAY DATE

2011-12-22T14:25:00.000-08:00

Rocks Pine and the Sea II
o/c
10 x 10

I picked up my two paintings today at the Concord Art Association Holiday show. While they hugged the wall for the duration of the exhibit I am already planning their next outing.

Tidal Pools
o/c
10 x 10

SOLSTICE

2011-12-21T09:43:00.000-08:00

HAPPY SOLSTICE!

RED

2011-12-20T12:51:00.000-08:00

My Thanksgiving Amaryllis (a gift!) keeps on blooming. The perfect hot color for a grey December day in New England.

ART SALE

2011-12-19T06:13:00.000-08:00

Only Trust Your Heart
watercolor
36 x 28

The Museum School art sale was a success for me. My painting Only Trust Your Heart did sell. That was exciting news as it is one of my favorites. The best part of the sale was having the buyer contact me wanting to know of the inspiration for the work along with the title. We had a very rewarding email exchange on this painting. That interaction is why I paint.

IN PRAISE OF OTHER ARTISTS

2011-12-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

My friend Michael Seif has been very generous with keeping me supplied with images of my work seen elsewhere. In turn I want to let friends know about his stunning show currently on view titled The Fluid Figure Photographs by Michael Seif at the Griffin Museum of Photography's Atelier Gallery at the Stoneham Theatre in Stoneham, MA.

To see his work one is overwhelmed with the strong desire to own one of his photographs. Recently Artscope (Sept/Oct 2011) reviewed his work at Copley's Society of Art show "Then & Now: The Enduring Allure of Light in Photography”

Seif’s underwater portrait of two bodies coming together is overwhelmingly sensual; an image of graceful movement where the human figure is presented in a fantasy world as an unidentified watery organism. Changing the perspective as he composes his photographs, Seif is able to hold the light present at that moment to reveal the specifics of a quickly altering event.

The reception is this Thursday, December 15th, from 6 - 7:30 pm. Michael will give an artist talk about his 8-year project that has resulted in the photographs in this show. If you can't make the reception, but I strongly urge you do as Michael gives a wonderful inspiring talk, know there is time to see this exhibit as the show runs through to January 15.

The Griffin Museum's Atelier Gallery at the Stoneham Theatre is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 1-6 p.m., and one hour before each theater performance. The gallery can be accessed through the Stoneham Theatre's lobby at 395 Main Street in Stoneham, MA.

MADE THE WALL

2011-12-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

My friend & talented photographer Michael Seif sent me this photo from the SMFA Art Sale now going on. That is my work West Side hanging on the wall during last night's reception. This was fun news to receive this morning as I was unable to attend the reception. The sale goes on until Sunday and is open daily 10 AM untill 8 PM. Hope to see you there.

watercolor
28 x 36

Special thanks to Michael Seif for documenting with his ipod my participation in this sale!

WAITING NO LONGER

2011-12-08T07:47:00.000-08:00

WAITING
watercolor
24 x 24

Yesterday I delivered this painting to its new home. This part of the job is a big treat for me - to meet the buyer and see the house that welcome one's work. Waiting is a watercolor mounted on canvas with cold wax medium applied to the painting acting as a clear protective shield. By not framing with glass or Plexiglass the colors can reflect their true character. This work was exhibited this past summer at the Rocky Neck Gallery in Gloucester, MA. I had many interested parties but only if I was willing to negotiate the price. That I was not willing to do. I knew someday the right buyer would come along. Thank you for coming along so soon.

WINTERLUDE

2011-12-06T12:40:00.000-08:00

This is my booth at the Winterlude 2011 show in Peterborough, NH this past weekend. We had a wonderful response from our families, friends, fans and new aquaintances throughout the two days. My Slip paintings were very well received as well as the new Black Chemise series introduced here. I am honored to have paintings sold at this event. The big treat is meeting the actual buyers who want to take my work home, along with sharing stories about our moms.

Black Chemise # 4
acrylic/handmade paper
mounted on canvas
sold

Black Chemise # 7
acrylic/handmade paper
mounted on canvas
sold

Black Chemise # 10
acrylic/handmade paper
mounted on canvas
sold

Shift # 1
watercolor
8 x 10
sold

Many thanks to all who attended this event and for your generous support.

SMFA ART SALE

2011-12-05T09:05:00.000-08:00

Only Trust Your Heart
watercolor
36 x 28

The Museum School Art sale starts this Thursday, Dec 8th, at 10 AM. I submitted two framed paintings (this one pictured) and West Side another watercolor 28 x 36 along with five shrinkwraps. I am very excited to have my work there and help support a worthy cause - scholarship. The sale runs through Sunday, Dec 11th and is open daily 10 AM to 8 PM. The location is 230 The Fenway, Boston, MA right next to the Museum of Fine Arts. There is both street and lot parking available. For more information go to www.smfa.edu/artsale.

SMFA ART SALE

2011-12-02T04:39:00.000-08:00

photo by Michael Seif

Yesterday was drop off day for the Museum School Art Sale. The times to bring the artwork were from 2 -7 pm. I arrived at 2:05 and the place was already buzzing. I ran in to friend and photographer Michael Seif. Michael took my picture while I was waiting in line. I also saw artist Ruth Mordecai and finally met Selma Bromberg, artist, printmaker and teacher. (That is her in front of me.) For many years I have wanted to take one of her printmaking classes at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education. Now may be the time.

The SMFA staff, extremely friendly and helpful, made it very easy to drop off the work. Thank you all!
The event starts next week - Thursday, Dec 8th, through Sunday, Dec 11th. The sale is open daily 10 am - 8 pm. This is well worth a visit as artwork from established artists as well as emerging artists is there ready to enter a new art collection. And proceeds from the sale go to a worthy cause - scholarships for art students.

WINTERLUDE 2011

2011-12-01T08:37:00.000-08:00

WINTERLUDE 2011

I will be joining four other New Hampshire artist this coming weekend for a two day art exhibit/sale in Peterborough, New Hampshire. This event takes place at the Peterborough Historical Society on 19 Grove Street on Friday, Dec 2nd, from 3-8 pm and Saturday, Dec 3rd from 10 am - 5 pm.

For some reason I cannot upload images of the paintings by these artists (no matter how small I make them) so please visit their website.

The other artist particpating are: Frankie Brackley Tolman, Deborah Lloyd Kaufman, Elaine Cummings and Rosemary Conroy.

Frankie is a Signature Member of the New England Watercolor Society and the RI Watercolor Society. She is represented by Art3 Gallery, Mill Brook Gallery, and the Sharon Arts Juried Members’ Gallery. Frankie teaches a very popular watercolor class at Sharon Art Center.

Elaine A Cummings from Peterborough, NH returns this year. Elaine and I were fellow students in one of Frankie's watercolor classes at the Sharon Art Center. Elaine works in watermedia and colorfully captures a joyful reaction to her surroundings. She attended RISD and has worked as an illustrator and art teacher.

Deborah Lloyd Kaufman works in acrylic in a abstract expressionist style. Her vibrant paintings evolve through the process of layering to build rich complex areas of color. She has degrees from the University of Minnesota, Antioch-New England and studied at RISD. She has taught art to children and college r many years, Deborah has taught at Keene State College and Antioch-New England.

New this year to the show is Rosemary Conroy. Rosemary colorful and contemporary acrylic paintings explore the beauty of the wild and mild creatures that share this planet with us. Largely self-taught, she believes that passion for one's subject is vital. And that passion has invited a strong following. Rosemary is also a faculty member at Sharon Art Center.

I feel honored to be in such company! Last year proved to be a festive event. We received such a warm welcome from an art loving audience. If you are in the area do stop by. Friday night we will have a reception with treats and Cape Breton fiddle tunes provided by Harvey Tolman.

SPEAKING OF ART

2011-11-25T09:20:00.000-08:00

ARTSPEAK

If Art would only talk it would, at last,
reveal
itself for what it is, what we all burn to
know.
As for our certainties, it would fetch a
dry yawn
then take a minute to sweep them
under the rug:
certainties time-honored as
meaningless as dust
under the rug. High time, my dears, to
listen up.
Finally Art would talk, fill the sky like
a mouth,
clear its convulsive throat while
flashes and crashes
erupted as it spoke — a star-shot
avalanche of
visions in uproar, drowned by the
breathy din
of soundbites as we strain to hear its
august words:
“a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w
x y z.”

COMING TO THAT: POEMS BY DOROTHEA TANNING (Graywolf Press, $15) is a second poetry collection by a painter and sculptor who celebrated her 100th birthday last year. Ms. Tanning was married to the artist Max Ernst and is often taken for a Surrealist, though she went her own way with art that’s dreamlike but also firmly reality-based, socio-politically attuned and bittersweet.

- Roberta Smith

From the New York Times article Holiday Gift Guide For Art Lovers, Volumes meant to Awe and Inspire. November 25, 2011

SPICE & GOOD CHEER

2011-11-24T07:46:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a delicious holiday

Happy Thanksgiving!

BLACK DRESS

2011-11-23T07:20:00.000-08:00

Recently my husband and I tried a red wine called Little Black Dress. The title intriqued me as did the label with no sign of a dress - just the hanger. I have also been interested in the Spanish holiday Dia de Muertos or Day of the Dead. There is this belief in many cultures and religions where once a year communication exists between the living and the dead. As I have been exploring this concept along with the Catholic holiday, All Souls' Day, I have been working on a series of black slips that seem to morph into dresses as a continuation of my slip series. These small works are on (roughly) 10 x 10 inch square sheets of handmade paper that I get from Taos. It is luscious paper to work with. And the series continues to explore presence and absence.

HOLIDAY SHOW

2011-11-22T07:07:00.000-08:00

Rocks, Pine & The Sea II
o/c
12 x 12

Today I will be dropping off two paintings for the Concord Art Association annual holiday show of small works. This show will be held December 1st - 22nd.

Concord Art is one of my favorite art organizations so I try to support them as they do a tremondous job supporting artists. They offer many lectures, programs and workshops of interest for all artists and the community. The community offers their generous support by purchasing the art display at the many exhibits Concord Art organizes.

Tidal Pool
o/c
12 x 12

These two paintings I did this past July in Stonington, Maine. It was a very unseasonably hot week so painting by the water was refreshing. A nice thought - summer heat on a frosty morning in November.

LUDDITE DAY

2011-11-17T13:04:00.000-08:00

Somedays I feel like a luddite! I spent most of the afternoon submitting work to the SMFA upcoming sale. The luddite problems are the results of my computer experiencing several sluggish issues with browsers and not being able to resolve those. Plus the requirements of the submission process is a tad involved. Though it pays to read the directions thoroughly.

West Side
watermedia

Circling
watermedia

Red Shears
watermedia

The good news is I finished, but also I had fun selecting the work. Two years ago I was fortunate to sell some paintings so this year I am able to submit two framed works and six shrinkwraps. This is a worthwhile event as the sales are split with the school aiding the scholarship funds. The sale draws quite a crowd of art buyers/collectors and fans. Inspite of the long submission process I am happy to have another fine venue to show my work.

NEW STUDIO

2011-11-11T17:23:00.000-08:00

Our new studio in Arlington! I am sharing this space with my friend and artist Wendy Young. We have 400 square feet! More details to follow as we settle in to this delightful space.

MY FIRST COVER

2011-11-10T12:22:00.000-08:00

Today in the mail this book arrived: Shadow and Light - A Literary Anthology on Memory, a publication of the Monadnock Writers' Group. This is my very first cover art for a book!

The opportunity to be featured all happened by lucky chance. Not only serendipitous luck but this is quite poignant that my artwork would grace a publication dealing with the theme of memory. This subject is very close to my heart.

This anthology is the sixth publication of the Monadnock Writers' Group and features twelve prose pieces, sixty five poems and several photographs from five other artists. This bounty of writing and art was culled from over 900 submissions all dealing with memory.

I must quote a passage from the book's introduction by Senior Editor Ann Robinson: If it is true that many first literary efforts are autobiographical—and certainly much of contemporary work is based on self-exploration, requiring the writer to plumb his or her own experience—then we must assume that we have to go back before we can move forward. The challenge lies in retaining the pieces of our past that have shaped and moved us as writers and can inspire our readers, illuminating a pathway from shadow into light.

Whether working as a writer or visual artist this passage resonates with me.

If you are interested copies can be purchase for $15.00 by visiting their website: http://www.monadnockwriters.org/.

I owe a special thank you to Tina Rapp and serendipitous moments!

LOOKING AROUND

2011-10-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

I have had the opportunity to spend some time in Gloucester this month. Thinking about a new series I want to work on...the land & seascapes surrounding me can only inspire. I have been exploring the marshes, dunes and beaches. Whether through film or sketch or just walking - right now it is about collecting.

A SIGN

2011-10-03T10:29:00.000-07:00

words to live by!

MAINE PAINTINGS

2011-10-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

Rocks, Pine & the Sea I
oil/canvas
10 x 10

This past July I was fortunate to spend a week painting in one of my favorite Maine places - Stonington. Here are some of the results from that week. The last painting Hideaway recently sold.

Rocks, Pine & the Fog
oil/canvas
10 x 10

Rocks, Pine & the Sea II
oil/canvas
10 x 10

Tidal Pools
oil/canvas
10 x 10

Hideaway
oil/canvas
10 x 10

LABOR DAY

2011-09-06T10:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day!

WATER AS MAGIC

2011-08-28T10:55:00.000-07:00

We have been soaked with the power of water in a liquid form as Hurricane/Tropical Storm Irene passes through New England now. This past Thursday not being an enticing beach day we searched out other venues for water. And we were richly rewarded with this new exhibit at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA where water in it many states is eloquently portrayed.

The show is Ripple Effect, now on view until April 30th 2012, in PEM's interactive Art & Nature Center. This exhibit: "highlights water as a medium for artistic expression and hands-on exploration. Visitors encounter water in its different states - solid, liquid and gas - as they investigate artworks inspired by rivers, geysers, snowflakes, fog and more. Water's allure to contemporary artists as a creative medium is compelling, especially in relation to the unique, life-giving properties of this substance we so often take for granted."

Artists, local and around the globe, explore the many states of water. My favorite is this pictured above - water in a gas state. It is mesmerizing to watch. Other exhibits in the same vein also showed the power and magic of water. Of special note is The Unseen Sea by Simon Christen - a must see video that showcases the majestic beauty of the everflowing natural world.

BARELY

2011-08-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

Barely
watercolor
30 x 22

This painting titled Barely was recently selected for the Rhode Island Watercolor Society 18th Annual National Show. This is part of my slip series I have been working on since January. Barely was painted while in Taos, NM at the end of April. Truly, an inspiring place to be. My goal in Taos was to take the acrylic on canvas slip paintings I had been working on and continue the series on full sheets of 300 lb paper in watercolors. There are many more paintings in this series. I am happy to have a cohesive body of work. For the last year I have not entered many juried show due to other demands, now with paintings at hand it is a plus to have one's work resonate with others.

MY SHOW IS UP

2011-08-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

Slip # 1

My new show Slipping the Knot opens today at Rocky Neck Gallery. This will be up until Tuesday, August 16th, and is part of the new Summer Artist Series inaugurated this year. The gallery has featured 4 exhibits so far, showcasing new artists and media to the gallery. My show is the fifth event with four more exciting exhibits to follow. For this exhibit I have 7 paintings (18 x 18 - acrylic on canvas), 4 acrylic on handmade paper on canvas and one large watercolor 36 x 28.

I started this series in January with the intention of using fabric and doing mixed media. But my intention was changed when the painting above emerged into a silhouette of a slip. This image directed me to another path - it has been a wild ride and fascinating series to work on.

Chemise # 7

acrylic on handmade paper

about 9 x 9

These small works are on handmade fine 100% luscious cotton rag paper I bought last year while in Taos. This is gorgeous paper to work with and can be ordered on line at: Taos Paper Works I had this for a whole year before I was brave enough to work on it. Maybe this paper was just waiting for the slip series.

Red Slip # 3
watercolor 36 x 28

I hung the show last night. It was a gorgeous cool night to be on the neck. Lots of people were out enjoying summer.

Here is my slip show - quite intimate. I took this image with my little digital camera ( no flash), as you can see it was dark and late. Better images to come!

The gallery is hosting a reception is this Saturday, August 6th, from 5 - 8pm with food & spirits along with an artist talk scheduled for 7 pm. I am pulling this together now - wish me luck!

Come join me and see not only my show but the diverse and original works by the talented artists of the gallery.

Rocky Neck Gallery is open 7 days a week. Vist our blog at http://rockyneckgallery.blogspot.com/ for hours and location. Hope to see you Saturday night!

MAINE INSPIRATION

2011-07-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

Maine always inspires me. And of course Maine is the place to be during last week's heat wave. What places inspire you?

STILL SLIPS

2011-07-06T06:34:00.000-07:00

watercolor
33 x 22

I am still painting slips and have been working in watercolor on 300 lb CP paper for a while. Interesting things are happening in this series. I hope to organize the images soon so my website can be updated. But for now I would rather paint.

SLIP # 9

2011-06-20T15:21:00.000-07:00

Slip #9 is one I will take back to the studio. Sometimes a painting just needs to sit for weeks before it talks to me.

SLIP #8

2011-06-11T04:57:00.000-07:00

Slip # 8

acrylic/canvas

SLIP #7

2011-06-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

Slip #7
acrylic/canvas

SLIP #6

2011-06-08T12:49:00.001-07:00

Slip # 6
acrylic/canvas

ART IN THE BARN

2011-06-07T06:30:00.000-07:00

REFLECTION
watercolor
19 x 22

Art in the Barn takes place this Friday, June 10 through to Sunday the 12th. This will be the 4th year I have participated in this festive art event. This is the 22nd year Essex County Greenbelt has sponsored this exhibit and sale to benefit their organization - a very worthwhile, important nonprofit land trust on the north shore.

From their website:
Essex County Greenbelt Association is a member supported nonprofit land trust that has conserved nearly 14,000 acres of land in Essex County. Greenbelt works with local communities and landowners to acquire and protect ecological areas, farmland and scenic vistas. One of our major goals is the creation of "greenbelts" consisting of river, trail, and other natural corridors, coastal systems and visually intact landscapes

Along with about 150 other artists in a wide range of media we get to show our work for three days to a very receptive audience in a beautiful setting in Essex. Last year the event drew 3500 visitors. And if sales occur we get support and in turn support the Greenbelt. This year I have three framed paintings in watermedia and 10 shrinkwrap works. I was hoping to post the other framed pieces but lost the images somehow in reorganizing the files. Oh well... better yet come to the Cox reservation this weekend and stop at Farnham's next door for a sumptous lobster roll.

SLIP #5

2011-05-30T06:17:00.000-07:00

Slip #5
acrylic/canvas

FLOWERS

2011-05-26T05:51:00.000-07:00

Not posting a slip today. Just thought I would feature a small floral painting that recently sold. This is oil on paper painted with palette knives.

SLIP # 3

2011-05-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

Slip #3
acrylic/canvas

SLIP #2

2011-05-24T09:56:00.001-07:00

Slip # 2
acrylic/canvas

SLIPPED AWAY

2011-05-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

While not blogging much I have been painting a lot. And working on a new series. This is the first one I did that started my series. My intent was to paint another article of clothing but by the end of the day this item the slip appeared. Since that day I have done 14 more slips in acrylic on canvas.

I plan to post this new work in the days to come and continue with this theme. This simple garment has provided me with a fascinating journey in paint.

PAINT THE TOWN

2011-04-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

Estuary
o/c 10 x 8

Concord Art Association's Paint the Town fundraiser is happening soon. A worthwhile event for a very fine art organization that does an outstanding job supporting the arts, artists, and the community near and far beyond their base. Concord Art has a very wide reach not just in surrounding metro west communities of Boston but throughout New England.

I was invited to participate again in this event. I am donating one of my favorite paintings for the silent auction with any sales all going to the association. This is Estuary, painted plein air, one fine October day near the marshes of the Plum Island area. Though a small painting on close inspection one will see it is quite expressive in color and mood. I am not one to normally promote or sell my work but this one I consider a real gem. I do hope it finds an appreciative buyer at the auction. Then we will all benefit by supporting the arts.

The auction takes place on Saturday, May 21, and the artists' reception will be held on Thursday, May 12, from 6 - 8 PM. Hope to see you there.

DESERT PATH

2011-04-18T06:04:00.000-07:00

watercolor 22 x 30

My painting Desert Path was selected to be the featured work on the postcard for the Rocky Neck Art Colony Spring members' show. This Best of Rocky Neck exhibit will be held at Rocky Neck Gallery on 53 Rocky Neck Avenue in Gloucester, MA. The show dates are: May 20 - June 3, 2011. Artists' reception is Saturday, May 28th from 5 - 8 pm. Join us that evening to meet the artists of Rocky Neck Art Colony and enjoy a festive night celebrating art, friends, family and the start of summer.

PATTI SMITH

2011-03-21T16:44:00.000-07:00

Last week we went to hear Patti Smith talk at the MFA. This is the Evening with Creative Minds: The Ruth and Carl J Shapiro Celebrity Lecture series and it definately was that. The title of her talk is Kidding Around with Patti Smith. And she is a joy to hear...as she read to us, sang to us, told us stories, made us laugh and answer all our curious questions in to short a time. I never really knew her music until now but it was her book Just Kids that got my attention. This 2010 National Book Award winner is about her friendship with fellow artist Robert Mapplethorpe and their early years in New York City of the 1970s. Her writing is sensational and poetic and a must read (and has pictures - we visual artists love that). She is a must to go hear... anywhere! As an artist she reminded us that night that it is about the work, the process, the vision are what matters not the sales. We can do anything to earn a living but no matter what we have to do to make money we are always an artist. I am a new fan of this amazing artist.

TAOS SELECTED

2011-03-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

My painting TAOS, a large watercolor 22 x 30, has been selected for the seARTS 2011 loan program at the Bass Rocks Golf Club in Gloucester, MA. This is my third year having my work accepted. The club house at Bass Rocks is a beautiful venue, on a stunning setting overlooking the sea, to showcase one's work. seARTS stands for the society for the encouragement of the arts and does an outstanding job promoting this program and supporting the arts in general in the state. It is a worthwhile society to join for any artist or art supporter.

PAYING THE UNCLE

2011-03-10T15:49:00.000-08:00

Taxes are done - hurrah! So I am back in the studio. Yesterday I experimented with Golden's OPEN acrylics on 18 x 18 canvases working on three at once. I also tried Golden's Acrylic Retarder as still the acrylics are drying to fast for me. Still, interesting things are happening and I have lots of tools and products to play with. And the task of taxes is off the list.

BEACH ART

2011-03-07T18:47:00.000-08:00

Inspiring finds on the beach at Crane

TRANSPORTING THE STUDIO

2011-03-01T16:19:00.000-08:00

Today, instead of heading west to my studio, I went northeast to explore a different studio. It was a much longer drive but well worth the hour or so once I arrived. The light was fantastic, the space immense, the music soothing and the air crisp. During my time there I was able to clear the "cabin fever fuzz" in my head and discovered along the way inspiring works already created in this space. I would advise anyone to make the same trip especially when the place calls to you.

DRIPS

2011-02-28T12:02:00.000-08:00

The endless rain of the day must be influencing me as I continue to play with these works that I started in January. This painting is reminding me of being on a beach in the late day, after a summer squall passed by. I love how an image can transport me.

AND THE OSCAR GOES TO

2011-02-27T05:57:00.000-08:00

Tonight is the big night. All those movies/actors/directors nominated this year will finally get the answer to who is the best. After seeing most of the contenders from The King's Speech to True Grit; The Kids Are All Right; The Social Network and Inception, I have decided who should win. The runaway winner, this year, for an Oscar in the following categories of Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor & Actress, Best Sound and Best Special Effects, is without a doubt - winter. As Best Picture it changes our world. As Best Director it changes our day. As Best Actor & Actress it consistently surprises us with its presence, moods and ability to play a range of roles from the meek to the powerful. As Best Sound... can you hear it falling this morning? And as Best Special Effects it reshapes the landscape into a different reality. So enjoy the show tonight. I am enjoying the winner now.

A SPECIAL DAY

2011-02-23T15:08:00.000-08:00

It is a special day when that call comes and a request is made. "Is this painting on your website still available?" Blue Dusk, a watercolor on a full sheet of 300 lb cold press paper, is now under new ownership. Tis indeed a special day.

SUNDAY MORNING

2011-02-20T14:12:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning, I am catching up on the Boston Globe's Sebastian Smee's art reviews while my cat ponders Edward Gorey's drawings.

FUN MAIL

2011-02-19T09:47:00.000-08:00

My order from Dick Blick arrived. Now I am ready to experiment with the Golden's Open line of acrylic paints along with their exciting products in Glass Bead Gel and the Black Mica Flakes. I have a lot of colors in their Heavy Body line of acrylic paints and these will mix nicely with the Open line. Can't wait to get to the studio.

MORE STUDIES

2011-02-18T05:13:00.000-08:00

My stack of figure studies continues to grow as I try to do these daily. I also have some paintings needing to be photographed, thus a good project for the weekend. (These here are scanned.)

In this last figure study I really like the American Journey (AJ) paint color Andrews' Turquoise over the Raw Umber Voilet. These are two colors from Cheap Joe's that I want to work with in a larger painting. To the right of these is the AJ color Rainforest. Initially I did not care for this color but after some experimenting with it, this is a keeper.

UNPLUGGED

2011-02-17T06:21:00.000-08:00

I left the studio the other night with a vague feeling I was forgetting something. And in the late hours of the night I realized I had left an electrical appliance plugged in. The studio rule is to unplug everything before leaving—a good rule to follow. So yesterday morning I went to the studio with that mission, unfortunately I wasn't in the mood to work. Why not? Numerous other tasks at home calling for attention? Not having a sense of direction in my work? Waiting for supplies to arrive before I begin the next project? These are all valid reasons but are not good enough reasons to not show up. We've all had those days with office jobs when just showing up was the hard work yet discipline and a sense of purpose would finally overruled. And most times the desire to work arrives after I begin. Maybe I just need to subsitute the word "work" for "paint". I arrived at the studio and saw the plug was unplugged as my studio mate had shown up the evening before. I didn't need to go to the studio after all but not knowing the status of the plug was my motivation. And with that I decided to plug in and paint.

STUDIES

2011-02-16T14:53:00.000-08:00

These are my watercolor studies I been doing every day. I use these as warm ups and also to play with color, brushes and paint application.

These are starting to pile up into a nice stack.

TAPE

2011-02-14T04:48:00.000-08:00

I use a lot of tape in securing my watercolor paper - full sheets of 300 lb cold press paper to boards. The best part of the tape is peeling it off signaling the painting is finished (for now). Lately I been adding it to a pile instead of tossing it. This may be one of the many benefits of having a large studio space outside the house. And, the tapes are adhering into something completely useless yet entertaining.

THREADS

2011-02-13T15:25:00.000-08:00

More drawers of thread from my mom's sewing room.

These so inspire me.

THREADS

2011-02-12T07:11:00.000-08:00

My mom had a studio we called the sewing room. In this space she created many beautiful things for family and friends. She was taught to sew by her mother, (Grammie to all of us) and her Aunt Mary and in turn passed on this knowledge and skill to my sisters and I. While visiting my family recently, I opened her drawers of thread and discovered the magic within.

WEBSITE UPDATED

2011-02-08T06:19:00.000-08:00

My website marthawakefield.com has been updated with a new layout and new paintings - 22 images added. Working with web designer extraordinaire Jeanne Williamson of Thread Media we collaborated on the new design. While it took me some time to round up the images, note the changes and organize all the information, Jeanne speedily refreshed the site.

We debated changing the home page image and in the end decided to keep the scissors. Maybe this year new work will be painted to mark that page. In the meantime please check out my updated website. And feedback is welcomed.

NEW LOVE

2011-02-07T07:16:00.000-08:00

I have a new favorite color: Raw Umber Violet from Cheap Joe's American Journey line of watercolor paints. This is a rich color that blends well with most of my other favorites such as Apricot, Peachy Keen, Orchid and Periwinkle; the blues of Ultramarine, Cobalt, Manganese and Andrews' Turquoise as well as Yellow Ochre to name a few. Yesterday, in the studio, I had fun mixing colors with this and learning its character. Raw umber violet is a cool, staining, transparent color with "very good" lightfastness rating. I tested a 15 ml tube and now will order the 37 ml tube. This is another plus of the American Journey line - 104 colors available in 37 ml tubes reasonably priced.

Please note: No payment has been made to endorse this product.

WINTER DESIGNS

2011-02-06T07:39:00.000-08:00

Last night we had lightening and thunder - a unique weather activity for early February. Lots of creativity in the air and on the ground around us.

ICE FLOW

2011-02-05T16:18:00.000-08:00

Seen enough snow lately so now I look to the ice for inspiration.

WORK IN FLUX

2011-02-02T12:39:00.000-08:00

This is my 12 x 12 acrylic on canvas undergoing revisions through the month of January. I tried to take more time observing the work, not rushing it to a "finished" state and working on other paintings also.

I will bring this home from the studio and have a better photograph taken and post that image soon.

STILL FALLING

2011-02-01T14:37:00.000-08:00

Our blue spruce in last week's storm (Thursday).

Our blue spruce today...

(Tuesday's storm)

I hope to get back to the studio soon.

The snow is continually changing the landscape, providing inspiration and endless shoveling time.

THERE IS ALWAYS GESSO

2011-01-29T07:58:00.000-08:00

After a few discussions of this painting with my friend in Maine, I felt this needed more work. With graphite and another small painting on paper I played with ideas as the above seemed too repetitious of the rectangle shape.

The idea, however, did not get executed as planned and gesso was the solution.

Though there is something interesting going on under the surface.

MORE WHITE

2011-01-28T07:18:00.000-08:00

Who can work inside when there is so much beauty outside re-landscaped by the fallen snow?

A GOLDEN DAY

2011-01-27T04:48:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday I took this workshop called "Not Your Mother's Acrylic Paints," at the Arlington Center for the Arts. I would highly recommend this workshop. It was an extremely informative day spent with Golden Working Artists Adria Arch and Patti Mollica. From 9 AM until 4 PM they introduced us to Golden acrylic paint lines and new gels, pastes and grounds. (Above is one of the displays they had featuring the many products.) And we had plenty of products to play with.

I am a long time user of Golden's Heavy Body acrylics but now I am adding the Open acrylics (slower drying time - yeah!) as well as Airbrush (like India Ink!) to my palette. The grounds we were shown also offer new surfaces for furthur explorations especially Fiber Paste, Micaceous Iron Oxide, Acrylic Ground for Pastels and the Molding Paste as a ground. Also very cool is the Black Mica Flakes and the Glass Bead Gel. Adria and Patty know the products and provided a ton of information and food for thought. Our heads were swimming by the afternoon. We all walked away with greater appreciation and understanding for the array of products and their versatility--plus a very long shopping list .

Here is a sample of two boards. This is Fiber Paste Ground where I applied heavy body & airbrush paints, and the very cool Black Mica Flakes (upper left).

This is Soft Leveling Gel with Fluid acrylics applied wet on wet along with Black Mica Flakes.

I now have other boards from the workshop with Golden's products. These make great references.

A book too is recommended: Rethinking Acrylic: Radical Solutions for Exploiting Today's Most Versatile Medium by Patty Brady

Adria is also planning seminars in the area so check out the Golden website and attend asap if you can not get into this workshop. Also check out Jeanne Williamson's blog about this day as well.

ARTISTS COLLABORATIONS

2011-01-26T05:36:00.000-08:00

Last week I signed up for the webinar: "Top Five Mistakes to Avoid When Collaborating with Artists," sponsored by the Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts and conducted by Sheri Mason, Esq., Director of Legal Services at the VLA. It was a valuable and informative one hour lecture. First Sheri reviewed what is copyright (which every artist needs to know), what is copyrightable, the bundle of rights and who owns the copyright. It is important as an artist to know if one ever enters into a collaboration who owns the work. The top mistakes to avoid covered in the lecture are: ignoring copyright consequences, miscommunication and how to avoid it, understanding your relationship and what it means concerning your art, not finalizing your agreement and the pitfalls to avoid when using pre-existing works. I would urge any artist who is considering a collaboration (or even needs a refresher course on copyright) to contact the VLA or check out the Arts and Business Council's website to see if this seminar will be offered again. It is time and money well spent.

PLAYING AT WORK

2011-01-25T06:39:00.000-08:00

For this month my 2011 resolution is to play more with painting. Note: my resolutions are only on a month basis. I took some paintings I no longer liked and gessoed over them. That was a very enjoyable task. For this work I am inspired by a orange tank top and a photo of a street scene from my travels to Beijing a few years back. My plan is to paint, experiment, paint, evaluate, paint and if needed gesso again over it all. These are the first explorations on 12 x 12 and 14 x 18 canvases using acrylics. The photo quality is poor as I am using my simple digital camera that can only record at a very low resolution and the available daylight/room light. Seeing the work in a different format (no matter what the quality) also helps me to better evaluate the painting.

The other fun part about this work is that I have been emailing the images to an artist friend in Maine and we been critiquing/discussing the work. My friend has provided valuable input and the feeling of working in a vacumn disappears. So far this has been an easy 2011 resolution to stick too.

NEW STUDIO

2011-01-24T06:39:00.000-08:00

Again, this year, I have sublet a studio space in Maynard, Massachusetts, at ArtSpace. The studio is the same one I had last year. It is a grand space with high ceilings, tall windows, and light all day. This I share with fiber artist Merill Comeau. The first week of January I packed up all my watermedia supplies, easels, tables, paper and other paraphernalia I can't live without and settled in, cluttering up my half quite quickly. Luckily I am able to sublet the studio through April. It has been great to be there working and I am getting more done as the distractions of shoveling, emails, husband, phone calls, cats, and the household jobs du jour are all left at home.

SNOWDAYS

2011-01-23T13:48:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy shoveling this month I haven't had time to blog! Three snowstorms already and it is only the 23rd day of the new year. There is talk of another storm on the way this week. Thus, I have become quite efficient with a snowblower this season. And, hopefully, I will become a tad more disciplined in maintaining my blog and keeping family and friends updated about my work. The good news is that I have been in the studio painting. But for today, on this beautiful cold Sunday I will post these few photos of our snowscapes.

A WALK IN THE WOODS

2011-01-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

On New Years day we went for a long walk in the snowy woods. Hardly anyone was about. The trees were still, the birds quietly perched and the wind was at rest. It was a gorgeous day to be outside crunching about in the snow. And as we went deeper into the forest we came across these delightful woodland animals along the paths:

The rabbit and the owl greeted us as did a lovely octopus (unfortunately the light was not strong enough to highlight the features of this sea creature with my camera.)

Their presence marked the first day of the new year as inspiring. Bravo to the artist or artists for creating, with the elements of winter, such magical sculptures.

WHY WE NEED ART

2010-12-31T09:15:00.000-08:00

"Paintings, like poetry or music, are essential nutrients that help people sustain healthy lives. They’re not recreational pleasures or sidelines. They are tools that help us grasp the diversity of the world and its history, and explore the emotional capacities with which we navigate that world. They illuminate, they humble, they nurture, they inspire. They teach us to use our eyes and to know ourselves by knowing others."

Beautifully written by Roberta Smith in the introduction to the article "A World of Paintings in One City," in today's New York Times Weekend Arts section. And an eloquent thought to finish this year with and start anew in 2011. Happy New Year!

RED SKY

2010-12-23T15:15:00.000-08:00

On these wintry eves wishing everyone red skies to light their nights.

A MAGICAL PLACE

2010-12-20T16:38:00.000-08:00

There is something magical about the Maine coast in the winter time.

NORTH

2010-12-19T15:57:00.000-08:00

We came north in search of winter and found it:

And now we feel the magic of the christmas spirit.

BOOKS

2010-12-17T09:11:00.000-08:00

Two books I can highly recommend reading over the holidays, if such time allows, or add these titles to your New Year's lists, are Seven Days in the Art World and Chuck Close Life.

Not new but very timely still is Seven Days in the Art World, by Sarah Thornton. This is a fascinating insider point of view into the big events of the insular contemporary art world from the crit at CalArts, to the Turner prize workings and onto the studio visit of Murakami(!). I would have preferred a studio visit of a working artist on a smaller scale not the global company of Murakami, but that is my only complaint. Definately this is a worthwhile read and a hard book to put down until you finish it.

The other book is Christopher Finch's Chuck Close Life. This book too is difficult to leave alone once you start. Finch's weaves an insightful tale of the life and work of artist Close. Not only is Close intelligent and talented but also he is highly likeable for such an art star. What I found a tad frustrating was Finch's idolization of Close in his portrayal even though we have to absolutely admire how Close overcame many challenging and life threatening difficulties. And by the end of the story the person who remains of the most interest, to me, anyway, is the woman behind the great man - his former wife, Leslie. Since privacy is crucial to her she will remain a mystery. Still read this as Finch also provides invaluable history of the New York City art world starting in the 60s. What a time to be an artist!

CUT UP ART

2010-12-16T09:42:00.000-08:00

Inspired by my friend Barbara, from Montreal, I decided yesterday to cut up some old watercolors and make holiday cards for my family and friends. This turned out to be fun and also inspires me on some concepts for a series to paint. So far I have 12 different designs for cards. Here are four that I really like. Note though these images are scanned so the color quality is not as crisp as the original. Isn't that always the case.

CARDS

2010-12-15T09:18:00.000-08:00

For the Winterlude show I had some cards of my paintings printed. I chose seven images: three are of buildings, two seascapes, and two flowers. Cards were the hot sellers of the two day show - I was fortunate to sell many. Interestingly the image most popular was this painting:

Memories of Home

watercolor

18 x 22

YELLOW

2010-12-14T14:59:00.000-08:00

On those December days when the sun is hibernating surround yourself with blooms of yellow flowers.

WINTERLUDE 2010

2010-12-13T08:52:00.000-08:00

This year, with 3 other artists, I join Frankie Brackley Tolman in a 2 day art show and sale called Winterlude at the Peterborough Historical Society in Peterborough, NH. This took place on December 3rd and 4th. Since I do not own a set up for display I was lucky to have generous friends (Adria Arch & Jeanne Williamson) who allowed me to borrow their grids. These grids are very versatile, lightweight and easy to set up. My husband, Pip, helped me with the set up thus making it a breeze. Plus we learned some lessons if there is ever a next time. I used white paper in 3 ft by 30 ft rolls from Staples for the backing. Lesson 1: The paper can be put up after the paintings are hung. Lesson 2: Borrow the hanging hooks offered by the grid's owner, in this case my friend Jeanne. I thought "S" hooks would be a simple solution for hanging. Lesson 3: Make sure all the screws for securing the stands are of the right size. And lesson 4: Know where the local hardware store is. The most essential tool for this set became the binder clip. These were used to secure the paper to the back of the grid, to keep the "S" hook from sliding on the grid and extend the paintings' wiring for hanging. Lesson 5: Make my mom proud and iron the table cloths.

Lighting was key but outlets were not abundent, so we used our photo floods for lighting.

The show started at 3 PM on Friday and lasted until 9 PM. During that time we had about 70 visitors. Saturday the show was from 10 AM until 6 PM and we also had a steady flow but I soon lost count of the numbers. Everyone commented on the work, "loving it" but sales were scarce this year. Notecards were the hot item. Regardless of the lack of painting sales it was fun meeting and talking to the visitors who passed through. And I think I sold a few subscriptions to Wild Apples art journal and also to The Palette Magazine.

Here are my friends' set up: Elaine A Cummings

And Deborah Lloyd Kaufman:

Unfortunately I was remiss in not taking pictures of Frankie's and Joanne Boudreau's booth. Overall our collaboration presented a colorful event with each having a unique vision in paint.

BLUE 2

2010-12-12T10:12:00.000-08:00

This photo, by my husband, Pip Shepley, called Whiplash was accepted into BLUE. This is his first juried show he has entered. Along with this acceptance he is now a member of the Cambridge Art Association. This image can be seen along with my painting Twilight Regrets at the Kathryn Schultz Gallery on 25 Lowell Street in Cambridge until January 12th. It is beautifully matted and framed I might add.

BLUE

2010-11-10T12:05:00.000-08:00

Twilight Regrets

watercolor 36 x 28

I feel very fortunate to have this painting accepted into BLUE, Cambridge Art Association's New England juried show. This exhibit was juried by Amy Ford, Director of Sales and Rental for the CAA, and Susan P Vrotsos, Emeritus Director of CAA. Also very exciting news for our household is my husband's photograph Whiplash was accepted into the same show. This is only Pip's second juried show he has entered. Now, I just have to get him to send me an image so I can post it. Join us Friday, November 19th, for the reception from 5:30- 7:30 PM. Details to follow.

STRIPPING NATURE

2010-10-21T05:28:00.000-07:00

The weather on our last day of the 4-day workshop with Jon Imber was not condusive to be outside painting. Instead our subject was a floral arrangement brought by my friend, workshop attendee and fiber artist Merill Comeau. This painting is a new direction for me, trying to strip away the non-essentials, be less detail oriented yet compose a compelling painting. For some time I have only been using palette knife when working with oil paints. Jon encouraged me to utilize the brush more. I think he is getting me back on track and in a direction I want to go.

STRIPPING NATURE

2010-10-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

This is a painting I did recently in a workshop with Jon Imber hosted by the Concord Art Association in Concord, MA. The work is oil on canvas, 12 x 12, painted while on location at the Minuteman Park in Concord. My goal was to create a mood and strip the landscape down to the essentials. We painted only a few weeks back when the temperatures were perfect, the leaves just starting to turn their colors and the park quiet on a weekday morning. This park is the perfect place for plein air as the landscaping is varied, the vistas inviting, and the essentials of parking and a bathroom are available. The park rangers and grounds crew welcome our types. I will definately go back soon to paint.

EQUIPMENT

2010-10-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

Equipment is very important to us artists. We can spend hours and dollars in art stores, pouring over supply catalogs and searching the web for those deals on things that will make our work easier, better, cooler and memorable. Whenever I paint with friends or take a workshop the one tool that makes the biggest impression is..........

(drumroll, please)

....my bungee cord paper towel holder. This tool can even blind people to my painting there on the easel, at eye level, sitting above the paper towels. They are so impressed with this device. It is amazing. And as we artists know, but don't like to speak of, in the end it really is about the equipment.

THE WISDOM IN TEA

2010-10-09T11:32:00.000-07:00

"Have wisdom in your actions and faith in your merits."

courtesy of Yogi brand green tea

A WALK IN THE WOODS

2010-10-07T05:46:00.000-07:00

Sunday I went for a walk with my dad and younger brother down a dirt road bordered by a lake on one side and woods on the other. And I came upon this scene created by man and nature. The mushrooms glowed white in the afternoon sun while the trees wore their bands of color.

SHOWS TO SEE

2010-10-06T10:57:00.000-07:00

Saturday night was the reception for the "Best of Rocky Neck" show in Gloucester. Word on the street is the reception was a smashing success and the show is a must see. Luckily I will be gallery sitting tomorrow from 11 AM until 2 PM and will have the time to see this show.

Today, opening at Simmons College Trustman Art Gallery is Anne Krinsky 's show TIME/LINE, 2000 - 2010. Tomorrow night, Thursday, is the reception from 5-6:30 PM and Anne will give a talk starting at 5:30. I am looking forward to seeing what Art New England states "...a fitting summary for a retrospective, and perhaps a jumping off point as well."

Friday night, Julia Shepley, a sculptor, artist, and cousin-in-law, is having a show at Boston Sculptors Gallery (from October 6th until November 7th.) and she will be giving a talk starting at 7 PM. Julia also has a review in the recent Art New England which I need to pick up a copy and also renew my subscription.

These are shows not to be missed and I hope to see you there.

NEW WORK

2010-09-22T09:31:00.000-07:00

My new series in watercolor is finally photographed. Now I just have to format and file the images. This one I plan to enter in the upcoming "The Best of Rocky Neck Members Exhibit". Deciding on a title for this painting was a challenge and I didn't want to simplify the name to just Figure I or worse Untitled. Luckily the title revealed itself one night while I was listening to Stan Getz and Joao Gilberto #2 CD recorded live at Carnegie Hall in 1994. Song number 12 - a bonus track - is the inspiration.

BEYOND WILD APPLES

2010-09-20T08:07:00.000-07:00

Beyond Wild Apples: Dwelling, Refuge, Shelter is the theme of the Fall 2010 issue of Wild Apples "a jounal of nature, art and inquiry." I am very excited to be part of this issue featuring a few of my paintings along with participating in the show at the Owen Smith Shuman Gallery at the Groton Public Library with such distinguished artists as Anne Krinsky, Margot Stage, Parrish Dobson, Betsyann Duval, Linda Hoffman and Beth Van Gelder.

There is a wonderful article of the show by the curator Deborah Santoro. Please visit the article at this link: http://gpl.org/events-and-activities/art-gallery.

To borrow a few paragraphs of Deborah's article:

Wild Apples, a Journal of Nature, Art, and Inquiry, brings together the work of artists and writers who are connected by the common threads of care for the environment, engagement in social concerns, and commitment to the arts and the way they shape our world. The twice-yearly journal takes its name from Henry David Thoreau’s essay, “Wild Apples.” (Wild Apples Journal)

A collaborative effort of its three editors, Linda Hoffman, Kathryn Liebowitz, and Susan Edwards Richmond, each issue of the journal is filled with art and words that uplift, explore, elucidate, and pierce the heart with the fiery stab of a pen or a brush.

Wild Apples is a treat to read and own. This is a work of art. Visit the journal at http://www.wildapples.org/

REFLECTION

2010-09-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

Recently we saw the movie I AM LOVE at Kendall Square's Landmark Cinema. A interesting tale filmed in Milan involving food, love, family and betrayal. And Tilda Swinton. After the movie we went to have a drink outside by the pool hall there only a short walk from the theatre. Another favorite haunt. Anyway I was inspired by the reflection in the office windows surrounding the plaza and was thinking this would inspire paintings of abstraction. Here it was done so well by light meeting glass, layering shadows, shapes, interiors and exteriors. One can find inspiration anywhere when we just sit and observe.

MY PAINTING BUDDY

2010-09-13T09:38:00.000-07:00

This is my painting buddy Everett. We have traveled far and near to paint together. Plus his wife Charlene is a joy and the best assistant to accompany us and indulge our artistic ways. Everett is one of my inspirators not only as a talented painter but also as a sculptor, let alone being a surgeon. Unfortunately we do not live close enough to paint often but we are planning our schedule for 2011.

BACK TO WORK

2010-09-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

My cats are telling me to get back to work...summer is over for most people right after Labor Day. Yet summer is not really over until September 23rd. Still I have ignored my blog for to long. And this is not due to being a beach bum this summer. Though it would be nice to actually have some tan lines. I have been working quite a bit in the studio and out. I will write more on that later. Right now my studio assistants are demanding attention and getting me organized for a new season. Now, if only I could train them to clean up the fur balls.

BEACH DAYS

2010-08-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

August already! This blog has been ignored as if I have been on summer vacation. Not really. I will post more later about what I have been doing besides having beach thoughts. Hope everyone is getting enough beach days this month. And I could use more photos of a stretch of sand and salty surf.