Stolen Painting - "Freedom Drummers", 24" by 20" Oil on Canvas

My painting, "Freedom Drummers", was stolen in December 2007 about 2 weeks before Christmas from a Salon in Waterford. It was being displayed on the wall and offered for sale. Another painting of mine, "Waiting" was also taken. I am deeply saddened by this. I worked on the drummers for over a year, and was proud to have it exhibited in two shows in 2007. There were paintings by other artist that were taken as well. I know how hard we artist work in our profession and I hope that we recover our precious artwork.

Now on a lighter note, I'd like to thank all my family and friends who encouraged and supported me for the year 2007. Thank you for attending my Art Exhibits and Shows, visiting my website, and blog (especially those who left comments). A special thanks to all who bought my artwork and commissioned custom portraits. It makes what I love to do that much more meaningful and pleasurable when I see how much you cherish the paintings.

I wish you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Painting Plein Air at Gabriel's Garden

On July 20, The Michigan Portrait Society and Open Air Painters, of which I'm a member, were invited to paint in Gabriel's Garden at the 5th Annual "Michigan Lavender Festival" in Romeo, MI. It was a beautiful day, the weather cooperated, not always the case with painting plein air (outside). I met alot of people and was able to share some samples of my portrait paintings. There was a young girl, named Angela, playing the harp and when she was on break Charlene Helen Berry played the dulcimer. Both of these professional musicians supplied the most beautiful music. With the relaxing sounds, wonderful weather, and intoxicating smell of lavender, it was a perfect day for painting a beautiful spot in the garden. It all ended too soon, so I took my oil painting back to my home-studio to finish.

I have been given the honor to paint a portrait of Angela playing the harp. I also spoke with Charlene Helen Berry about painting a portrait of her to possibly be used for a future CD cover. I'm looking forward to this as I would like to add them to my series of figurative paintings of musicians and dancers.

More information about Gabriel's Garden can be found at www.michlavenderfestival.com