Happy New Year 2016

Well, here we are again.  The beginning of another new year.  I love New Year's Day.  It's a time of moving beyond the past and reflecting on the possibilities of a whole new set of 365 days.  I don't make resolutions, but I do set goals.  This year, I'm going to focus on what I feel I do best and add new skills.  I highly recommend the book "The One Thing" by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan.  I don't know these gentlemen, but their book has really resonated with me.

I'm certainly looking forward to shorter shadows.  BRRRRR.

This little 5" x 7" watercolor is currently available on my Etsy site, whimrab.

I Wish You a Merry Christmas

For all those who may stumble upon this post, my wish for you is peace and joy this holiday season. Life is a gift, so let's celebrate.

Another ArtStartz Adventure

The latest from our merry band of art enthusiasts.  They were given a complex set of instructions for four different approaches to acrylic painting and each one did a fabulous job.  It's such a privilege to see creativity pour from people when they're given the materials and a safe environment to play.

Pacific Northwest Zinnias

I'm not sure if the calendar says we've turned the corner and are officially into autumn, but things are looking a little crispy.  Zinnias are some of my favorite flowers.  This painting was one of the large acrylics I did for the studio tour.  Such a happy painting.

From Baker to Brew

When a call to artists came out from our local Bellingham Alive magazine to describe our take on "community", my mind raced to the images that popped into my head.  As Whatcom County is notoriously home to a lot of beer and coffee snobs, I knew it had to contain those things.  There just wasn't room in the composition for bicycles, runners and so many other things that make Bellingham and Whatcom County so magical.

2016 Studio Tour Recap

With a second Whatcom Artist Studio Tour behind me now, I can reflect and compare my total experience with the tour.  This year's tour very consistent with last year's, which is a welcome relief.  People are getting out and supporting the arts and finding my little corner of the world.  A painting class was formed and eager new participants met.  New paintings were created and that means new designs for the winter shows.  Down time was used to create cards for upcoming shows and, back by popular demand, a 2016 calendar has been designed (wasn't going to do one this year) and will go to the printers today.  See front and back cover below.  I'd say the tour was very productive time spent and costs were recovered.  Success!!

2015 Whatcom Artists Studio Tour

Six new large acrylics on canvas for the 2015 Whatcom Artists Studio Tour.  Looking forward to talking about art for four days.