August Still Lifes

Here are three new still lifes that I have managed to squeeze in this month. There are so many more that I want to do. On July 4, I went to the Burley Park Flea Market and bought some nice props...the cobalt bottle is one of them. Most recently, I discovered a great antique shop in Elk Rapids (will blog on that trip next) and now have a few more exciting finds to use in future still life set ups. I like to keep the small still lifes simple, with a nostalgic mood and warm color.

"Chicory, Cobalt and Peach", oil, 7x5

"Crock of Cherries", oil, 6x6 SOLD

"Plums and Peach", oil, 6x6 SOLD

Enjoy! 

U.P. Vacation

My Upper Peninsula vacation was with family, visiting my brother while camping on a beautiful lake. The weather was nice, the kids got to fish and play and I did a few paintings!

"Evening Color", oil, 6x6
A small study before sunset.

"Evening Reflections", oil, 10x8
Another evening painting of cloud reflections.  I was glad to be almost  finished before the wind changed direction and the water lost the reflections. Then it was time for a glass of wine and campfire songs.

"Tranquil Water", oil, 8x10
The lake shoreline became sandy. Behind me was a swimming area  and a few people  enjoyed the refreshing water. I met an artist from Grand Rapids while working on this one!

A Day in Leelanau County

Leelanau View, oil on linen panel, 9x12

Leelanau Cherry Trees, oil on linen panel, 8x10, $475. Treeline Gallery

Last Sunday I was invited by artist Holly Sturgis to take a drive north. We dropped off paintings to Treeline Gallery, saw friend Margo Burian's work in Glen Arbor and painted in two different locations. It is a treat to paint in Leelanau County. Everywhere you turn, you see a painting. I should be living there for endless inspiration! 

A Garden Study

Phlox in August, oil on linen panel, 12x16  - SOLD

Every year I try to get to Betty's garden to paint. I have painted numerous versions of her gardens. Iris in June, Daylilies in July,  the beautiful phlox in August and the waterlilies in the little pond. Her garden is a labor of love and she is out there every morning making sure it looks it's best. It is hard to do justice to so a lovely place!