Marsh Hunter - upcoming solo show!

Marsh Hunter, 20 x 20, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2019

SOLD at the Anderson Fine Art Gallery, St. Simons Island, GA

Solo Show: Beaches, Birds & Botanicals

I was transfixed by the architecture of this Egret (love that curvy neck), especially as he stalked his prey. These birds are fun to watch, because they stand completely still as they wait for a fish or an insect. Then, when a tidbit of food shimmies by, they pounce! I also loved the reflections... I always love reflections!

Show update: Paintings are at the framer in GA, being fitted right now. Opening reception: April 12, 2019 from 6-7:30 pm. SOOOO EXCITED!

Hydrangea Bouquet - on display in the annual American Women Artists Member Show!

Hydrangea Bouquet, 20 x 20, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2016

SOLD at The Bennington 

I am very pleased to be participating in the annual American Women Artists Members Show. This is the first time in many years that I haven't made it to the festivities, but it just wasn't possible this time around. Thanks to Facebook and friends posting, I can experience a bit of the fun through pictures and stories being shared! If you are near Bennington, Vermont, please go see the show. It's always over-the-top inspiring and a feast for the eyes!

American Women Artists - Annual Member Show

The Bennington Center for the Arts

Bennington, Vermont

Show runs through November 13

Reception: Friday, September 23, 5-8 pm

Freshly Cut - And Show Tip #1

Freshly Cut, 20 x 20, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2016

Sold in Solo Show, "Chasing Color, Finding Light", Davis Gallery

I do love hydrangeas. There is something about their round shape, and delicate petals that just makes me swoon. This lovely bunch was freshly cut and ready to be put into some water. Unfortunately, by the time I finished my painting, they were no longer peppy enough for a vase. Thankfully, I had others to enjoy on the kitchen counter! This piece will be in my Davis Gallery show in April. 

A word about my show preparation process: Over the years, I have discovered that I work most efficiently when I have a good working plan. That's true for most things, right? In the coming weeks, I will share tips that help me get ready for an exhibit. One of my big goals is to cross the finish line without panic and worry. Hopefully, these tips will help other artists do the same. 

Tip #1 - Stock Up on Supplies

This may sound obvious, but stocking up on supplies is a huge pre-requisite for getting started. What does this include? Canvas, paint, mediums, brushes, and anything else I need for the process. I buy LOTS of canvas in a variety sizes and formats that I like working on, and I get it all gessoed and sanded. I also keep an extra full set of paints on hand at all times. Otherwise, running out for a tube of white or stopping to gesso a canvas really kills my momentum. I even stock up on frames - after all, I know what dimensions I will be painting, so why not be prepared?

Hydrangea Bouquet

Hydrangea Bouquet, 20 x 20, oil on canvas, L. Daniel © 2016

SOLD

This year I have been slow to post, but hard at work nonetheless! I have a big show coming up in April, so I am deep into the process of building a new body of work for that. The show will be at the Davis Gallery in Austin, and I will keep you posted on details as the time gets closer! Meanwhile, I am working larger and have been waiting for a few paintings to dry, so that I could sign, photograph, and start sharing. 

A beautiful hydrangea bouquet inspired my first piece. After a nice break at Christmas, painting from life brought me back to the rhythm of observation and focus that I love so much. 2015 was a busy, noisy year for me due to our home renovation, and I can not tell you how much I am enjoying the quiet, daily practice of going into my studio and loading my brushes. Pure joy!

Please stay tuned, as I plan to post about my process of preparing for a gallery show.

Painters - join me at this Plein Air Workshop:

April 28-30, Anderson Fine Art Gallery, St. Simons Island, GA

Contact Info: Mary Anderson, 912-634-8414

Graphite Study for Hydrangea Bouquet, 8 x 8

I am a drawer, so a quick sketch is always part of getting started for me. It's a great way to play around with composition and identify patterns of dark and light.